The search for one of my best loved, yet long missed games came to an end yesterday. I spotted Resident Evil 3: Nemesis at my local Gamestation, and it felt like all my Christmases came at once. :) Admittedly, it's the GC version and not the Playstation original, but enough to make me chuckle with glee.

I haven't played RE3 in a LONG time. When I stopped gaming back in 2003-4, I soon regretted trading it for reward points afterward. Jill's nightmarish trip around Racoon City was my inception into the world of Umbrella. It was the only sequel I finished too. The textured backgrounds, stalking Nemesis and Mercenary mini game all bring back great memories.

On a creative level, the heroine of my original novel is partly inspired by Jill in RE3. As a budding writer, I'm currently looking at all the stuff which influenced me and my writing. In the same way X-Men influenced Joss Whedon with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Nemesis did the same with my creative psyche. I always wanted to relive that experience, no matter how trivial, and glad I've finally got the chance. :)

NEXT YEAR...

It's barely Christmas Day, and I've already got my mind set on 2011.

The writer's group is helpful in terms of having an outlet. I appreciate the competitions and theme nights. When I look back at this time last year, I can't believe the 360 degree turn and stroke of luck. If someone told me I'd find my calling or real worth, I'd laugh it off.

Naturally there are good and bad groups everywhere. I'd like to continue being a part of this club because there are some benefits. A nugget of doubt has wormed its way into my head though. Everyone is really friendly, but I'm wondering if that might be a kiss of death.

At the moment, I chat away to a couple older people, but sometimes feel like a giraffe amongst a herd of sheep. The age gap isn't much of a problem. From an early age, I've appreciated the company of older people. Beneath the good social vibe, I'm wondering if they might fail on giving a balanced critique. Is it case of the blind leading the blind, or having more of one thing and not enough of the other?

Therein lies the rub.

On the 27th, I want to check out another local group. The new one appears to have a varied membership (both young and old.) That's what caught my attention straight away, and might prove more worthwhile on a practical and social level. They also hold meetings every two weeks, and inside a cafe bistro which is cosmopolitan. :) (The other group meet in a community centre.) I'd also like to switch between the two of them, and see how it goes.

Anywho.. I'm genuinely looking forward to mingling with new folk, maybe receive better or different feedback on my writing, and hope the trains don't fall prey to cancellation in this snow. :x :) I really want to expand my horizons in the coming year and keep pushing forward.

This is a fairly brief entry...

On the sixteenth, I finished my zombie fiction for the local writers' group. Basically, this was the story I should've done for Halloween, but needed extra time to complete. The process lasted three weeks; leaving me drained and feeling a bit nutty afterwards. Although, thankfully it was well received, despite minor proof reading errors. :oops: (If I hadn't left early the next morning for other reasons, I would have smoothed over the bumps.)

Today, I noticed the final piece on their website, which was a really cool surprise! I had a lot of fun writing it, yet ran the whole gamut of emotion too. NOTE: My pseudonym is 'Silverburgh' (not silverbaugh - wtf :?) and named after a certain leader of Rat Patrol 1. ;)

Anywho.. For anyone interested, here's a link to my zombie story.

Last Friday, I bought the complete series of Dark Skies on DvD, which brought back a lot of fond memories. I'd heard a boxset was due for the end of October, but never expected my local music store to have it. Fourteen years have passed since I watched any episodes, so this was a special purchase. :)

As an X-Files fan, Dark Skies was a slightly cheesy cash-in. Everything from Majestic 12, black triangles, Roswell, JFK to Russians, NASA, Area 51, mind control, Greys, and ganglion hosts were featured. The writers drew from established ufo lore, and tossed in a dash of 60's drama. At the time, I didn't appreciate the historical vibe, but loved the fact aliens were used a lot.

Anyway.. This slice of 90's nostalgia is a welcome blast from the past. Thus far, I've watched the first disc, and little details are flooding back which is odd but cool.

NEW GEAR:

I bought a new coat in time for the winter snap. There's nothing wrong with my current one, except that I've had it for years, and it's not the all-weather kind. The new one is quilted, shorter, has lots of pockets, comes with a detachable hood and looks like this:

CREATIVE WRITING:

After three weeks, I'm settling into the local writer's circle pretty well. This week's theme dealt with Halloween, and members had to write a short story, poem or article. I had a story about zombies lined up, but never managed to finish. (Close to a thousand words were written, which wasn't bad, but a lot of ideas/paragraphs were fragmented.)

Instead, I read out a teaser, and can still picture the silent reaction. Luckily, feedback was positive. A lot of people tend to pick up on my desciptive narrative, and it was no different here. When we all stopped for a coffee break, a couple female members remarked on the quality which was flattering.

On one side, I appreciate feedback, but on the other don't want my efforts to (seemingly) stand out too much or too quickly. Mostly, to the point where people feel disenfranchised. Which, probably isn't the case at all, and maybe silly to even think, but the attention did make me feel slightly uncomfortable.

A trickier aspect though, is that we're all encouraged to read our work aloud. Public speaking is nerve wracking for most, and made even more stressful now, by trying to uphold a standard. Plus, I need to work on projecting my voice because I'm not talking loud enough for the older contingent. :cry: :oops:

If I can wrap up the story by next week, then everything afterwards won't be so bad. The only real problem, is having to submit the story for... Um.. Well.. I'm not really sure why. :| :) The group leader told me to produce a finished copy in double lined spacing for next week. According to the schedule, a guest tutor will be taking a session. Whether they want to show them, or have it submitted as a competition entry, I'll have to wait and see.

Either way, the pressure is on. :? I have a (stubborn) organic approach, and can't rush ideas too much. Otherwise, the whole thing becomes a chore. Fingers crossed I can get it done in time!

Worries aside, I actually enjoyed the meeting. There were a few real life ghost stories shared (about disembodied hands, and hillside spirits etc), fictional faery tales, original halloween poetry, an original story about an evil witch, and some Halloween party food. A couple older members also talked about their Halloween experiences growing up.

SLIDING INTO FAVOUR.

Last night, I played the Vanquish demo for 360, and all I can say is... .... ... :o The game was on my track list, and after getting a taste of the combat and a boss battle, it's now exceeded expectation. Objectively, it's a little bit like Mass Effect 2, Alien Soldier, Halo 3, Zone Of The Enders and Wet, with a touch of Gears thrown in, but still manages to surprise and excite.

I loved the combat and pace. Bullets zip past and explosions fill the screen. Sliding (boosting) is addictive as hell. I also like the fact cover can't protect you when the boss enemies arrive. There's a solid tactical element that keeps you on your toes.

Anywho.. There are few demos I've wanted to replay this gen, just for the intensity and fun factor, and this is definitely one of them.

On Tuesday night, I attended my first local writers' meeting, and think it's a good fit. Usually, I give clubs a wide bearth, and nearly didn't go. The thought of another poorly resourced, money vaccuum didn't appeal. (The local art club drove me insane, because I paid £45 ($72) for subscription and gained little insight. Basically, there was nothing I did there, that I already couldn't at home.)

Luckily, this wasn't the case here, and was pleasantly surprised. I'm determined to give my original novel a platform, improve my writing skill and aim for publication. (Which is encouraged by the group.) Meetings take place between 7.30 and 9.30 every week from Sept until June. Subscription costs a reasonable £10 (about $15.) Over that period, there are workshops, readings, guest speakers, and competitions. There's a glut of activity to get stuck into!

A lot of the members are older, and male. There were probably three people within my age range in attendance. The group leader wears a cowboy hat, and tinkles a bell on a desk to catch our attention. :) I like the organised layout, and the fact I was bombarded with paperwork. No actual writing was done, but it's given me a lot to look forward to and plan for.

In two weeks, there's a Halloween reading which tickles the muse. I've started writing a zombie story, and want it to stand out. Horror is my go-to genre, so it's a good way to make an impression. Which means trademark description and total mindf*** narrative. Public speaking might be tricky though, but if I have fun writing then it should translate over. The whole process is never easy, (being rusty is an added challenge), but know it'll turn out okay. The pressure of a dwindling deadline spurs me on.

Anywho.. If I can settle into a comfortable pattern, then it should be really worthwhile in the long run. For personal reasons, I want to have at least one skill that's palatable, and leads to something good. Despite health issues, I'd like to be known for one thing, and be decent at it. This group is what I've been looking for in terms of the right motivation.

Today is my birthday! :D I'm haven't quite reached the big three-oh yet, but am at DEFCON 2 of the old age warning system. (Twenty nine.) Next year, I'll really start to worry about getting a zimmer frame. :cry:

Seriously though, I've had a fairly laid back day, and appreciated the low key vibe. It's allowed me to reflect on the last twelve months, and how much has changed positively. I'm also using my birthday as a jump off point for the months ahead, and where I'd like to go with future creative plans.

Anywho...

Here are some famous people I share the day with:

From left to right: Shawn Ashmore, Simon Cowell :shock:, Thom Yorke and Meighan Desmond (Discord from Xena/Hercules.)

Admittedly, I wasn't vocal about gift ideas. Not that I didn't want anything from anyone. The unspoken rule was how it would be better to choose what I wanted. Yesterday, I was treated to a shopping trip and managed to grab some early presents. (Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker, Ghost Recon Predator, and three for the price of two with Silent Hill 3, Devil May Cry 3 and Tomb Raider: Legend.)

Thus far, I've dedicated all of my attention to Ghost Recon, pretty much neglecting everything else. Peace Walker is a beautifully crafted title, from what I've seen and played via the demo. However, GR: Predator has me completely locked in. While Captain Mitchell isn't present, it captures the tension and controls of the console versions with fresh additions such as protecting hostages. When I look at Army Of Two: 40th Day on Psp, I wish it was like GR: Predator.

I also got Eureka season one on DvD, which I'm really pleased with. The forth season is currently running, which is brilliantly weird and funny, so it's great to catch up on all the backstory:

Sheriff Jack Carter in Eureka.

In terms of small extras, it wasn't necessary, but appreciated what was given. My mum got me a lottery scratch card, and won £2 which was a nice surprise.($3.17.) :) She also bought a ticket for the Saturday draw, so my fingers are crossed with that. My sis gave me a big tub of chocolates and a DvD about my birth year. My niece also bought me a madcatz Street Fighter IV 'Viper' controller for the Ps3. Here's what it looks like:

This controller literally kicks ass.

OTHER STUFF:

Scott Summers makes his last stand in X3.

Yesterday, I picked up The X-Men quadrilogy to complete the collection. 'The Last Stand' and 'Origins' were the only offerings I hadn't seen. Last night, I watched the third part of the trilogy, and thought it wasn't too bad, but not amazing either.

I loved the powerful moments with Xavier and Jean Grey. If the film had been longer, it could have benefitted from explaining Phoenix's background, as well as Juggernaut, and using Archangel better. On the flip side, Mystique is always sexy and badass, and she had some cool moments. (The prison truck scene springs to mind.) Sir Ian McKellan was great as Magneto once again as well. He pulled off a solid performance, and didn't seem cheesy or annoying.

Storm (Halle Berry) was kinda irritating though. Her powers were stunning, but the emotion of the character fell flat. With that in mind, a lot of the characters felt slightly off. I was a bit iffy on Vinnie Jones as The Juggernaut too. The character is supposed to be built like a house and wears a massive helmet. He looked a bit daft, and there were a lot of moments in general, which came across unintentionally funny.

Otherwise, I thought it was decent in parts, very action packed, and with some shocks. Purely for geeky reasons, it was fun to see Ken Leung who played Miles in Lost. On a final note, Kelsey Grammar was brilliantly cast as Beast.

If there's one aspect of gaming I enjoy more than playing, it's customisation. Whether Driver's film director, using decals in Forza, taking photos in Metal Gear Solid 4, or building LittleBigPlanet levels, I get hooked on user generated content.

When the latest iteration of Smackdown v.s Raw comes out, 'create a superstar' is first port of call. Like clockwork, I can waste a good few hours tinkering away with the caw editor, before checking out the other features.

Smackdown 2: Know Your Role is where my obsession began. For yucks, I made a quasi humorous gimmick called Fatboy. He was a hardcore version of myself, aping the Dudly Boyz and Big Boss Man. In later years he evolved into Divergence - less flashy and with a proper move set.

In total, I have six CAWS, (Anarchyst, Madlock, Tasha, and Divergence etc) who've crossed over each year. If there's an interest, then I might feature them in a future blog. Below, I want to share a couple of these creations who are my favourite:

DIRK 'SCREAM' BANSHEE.

A few people have drawn comparisons to Chad Johnson (Ochocinco), but I see shades of Jay Lethal in there too. I created him in 2007, with a predominantly green and yellow attire. I'm not sure where the inspiration came from, (his name popped into my head randomly), but had a clear idea of his essence.

There's slight differences between the 2007 and 2009 versions, but he's definitely come into his own in SDv.sR 2010. At first, he was larger than life with vibrant colours, Basically, he was DX crossed with Toxic Crusader. Nowadays, I've toned his appearance down, keeping true to the initial vibe. For example, the tanned, sun logo tights and white gloves were there from the start, as well as the dyed hair. The paint tool is a great addition, and as an artist, allowed me to define his gimmick further.

Hailing from Long Island New York, Dirk Banshee is a tribute to vibrant gimmicks of the eighties and nineties. I didn't want to turn him into a total cartoon, and gave him a streetwise look. His attire 'screams' like urban graffiti.

In terms of personality, Dirk interrupts anyone's match and loves the sound of his voice. As an in ring performer, he's quick on his feet, and unleashes some power moves. His entrance music is Livin In A Zoo by Public Enemy. :D

Here are some more pics:

MARCUS 'FALLOUT' DAVENGER.

For Davenger, the gimmick was predetermined. I wanted to base a wrestler around a nuclear explosion. He'd be unhinged, volatile, and scruffy. I imagined Marcus like a crazy hobo. His 'end of the world' schtick always got him into trouble, and he eventually turned to wrestling to spread the word. :D

Early morphs showed him like Nathan Hale - or his brother. Eventually, I scruffed him up, changed his face, but then he looked like Mick Foley with an afro. The afro was supposed to mimic a mushroom cloud, and didn't look right, so I removed it in the third revision. At present, he strikes a good balance between angry and nuts. I probably won't change his face again, because he's believable. When this guy walks out onto the entrance ramp, his on screen presence is strong. Keeping with the armageddon vibe, a triggered firework explodes at his feet when he punches the air.

In terms of custom logos, I wanted to push the envelope. I wasn't sure if a mushroom cloud and city skyline was possible, but loved the end result. The t-shirt design embodies Davenger. Even if I tweak his appearance again, nothing says Davenger more than that t-shirt. His attire is influenced by industrial warning signs - lots of skulls and black and yellow. On the back of his vest, is the phrase 'the end is now.'

Marcus Davenger is a powerhouse wrestler, mostly relying on dirty moves, and hails from Baltimore, Maryland.

Here are some more detailed shots:

My PsP 3003.

Tuesday marked the jump to handheld, when I bought a PsP. It's a facet of gaming I've wanted to experience, if only for the Metal Gear exclusives. Annoyingly though, I haven't found anywhere nearby that sells UMD videos. Watching movies on the go was another reason for purchase. Looks lke the hunt is afoot!

After play testing my first buys: Smackdown v.s Raw 2010, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops and Formula One 2009, I'm finding the right choice was made in general.

Formula One 2009 is an authentic racing sim.

Understandably, there are minor teething problems. I'm slowly adjusting to the newness of a small format, some games better than others. On Thursday night, I picked up F1 2009 again, after shunning it for the above reason. This isn't to say I'm rubbbish at F1. :D The controls felt a bit awkward, but know it's just post platform jitters. I've experienced the same thing when shifting from Ps2 to next gen. In GTA IV, I cruised around like an overly paranoid driver with a nuke in the trunk, during the early missions. Eventually, I got into the natural swing of things.

I know it'll take a wee while here too. After a few quick starts, and tinkering about in race weekend mode it's fairly addicting. Also, I'm now driving like a slightly more competent moonbrain! ;) Seriously though, the depth and presentation are impressive and noticed Codemasters are developer. If this one is close to the Ps3's 2010 version, then I'm sold.

Peekaboo! I recruit you!

Breaking habit, I bought Portable Ops near a week in advance, to build some pre ownership buzz. The local music store had a clearance sale, selling it for $15. (£10.) I couldn't ignore a great bargain, because it's a Kojima production! Plus, I hate spotting stuff, and finding it's sold the next time I have money.

Anywho.. I've barely scratched the surface, ready to work with my first recruit and know it'll get under my skin. The 'recruitment' system is a novel twist to the regular sneaking. Cutscenes are short and snappy thus far, much in the vane of the playstation original.

I wasn't enamoured to Snake Eater, but this direct sequel might be a good alternative.

THAT DAMN GAME:

Jungle is massive! A massive headache thus far. ;)

I've started Tomb Raider III's campaign, and formed an opinion right out the gate. Either the ol' brain cells are disintegrating, or it's a bloody evil game!

I'm no stranger to Lara Croft's adventures. Admittedly I've never beaten one completely either, out of pure laziness, but am versed enough in hidden traps and passageways. Part three is the only instalment whereby I've referred to a guide, and more often than I want, which is frustrating.

Maybe it's as straightforward as adjusting the screen brightness, or drinking more caffeine? Because, each area finds myself running around in circles for the damn switch, hehe. Either way, I'm not going to let it spoil the challenge, and should probably embrace the learning curve. If it becomes a chore, then I'll throw myself into The Last Revelation, which is less evil and equally stunning.

Irks aside, I appreciate the scale of this third installment. Levels are sprawling, and the ambient sound is realistic. Graphics are beautiful for a Playstation too, from shimmering water effects to ornate, ancient architecture. In Lara's mansion, I also like trapping her butler in the freezer. :lol:

RELIVING THE NOSTALGIA:

Holy pre-Christian-Bale-growl, Batman!

Sometime around the millenium (could be mid '99), I've got fond memories of buying my first PsOne at an electronics store. As part of the bundle deal, I picked two games for free. My choices? Apocalypse with Bruce Willis and Batman & Robin.

Yesterday, I had a bit of cashy money and raided the thrift stores for retro titles. Long story short, I've made a hit list of all the playstation games I used to own and miss. Sensibly, I realise I'll never track down all of them without ebay. Checking my usual haunts is pot luck, but weirdly the fates are on my side! Despite the scepticism, I was excited to reunite with this movie tie in.

This game gets bashed, but I think it looks and handles okay. After all these years, it's just a pure nostalgia trip to load up the disc, and play as Batman, Robin and even Batgirl. Players can patrol Gotham city in the batmobile, explore the bat cave, piece together gathered clues and take on Mr Freeze's goons. What's not to like? :)

ACTRESS OF THE MOMENT:

Who thought computer hackers could be this cute?

The second season of Warehouse 13 aired Thursday night, and I think I've found my new favourite actress. Allison Scagliotti really stands out as computer hacker Claudia Donovan. As a character, I love her quirky, artistic streak and hunger for adventure. I'm also not embarrassed to admit she's got a heart melting smile too. :)

The forth season of 'A Town Called Eureka' followed, and was surprised to see Claudia have a crossover guest role. A Town Called Eureka is funny, but not something I've followed religiously. Perhaps, this will change, because I've found it pretty decent compared to supernatural laywer drama 'Drop Dead Diva' earlier in the week. On a side note, I was more curious to see James Callis (Battlestar Galactica's Giaus Baltar) make his return to tv. His faux American accent is good!

So yeah.. Allison Scagliotti is flavour of the month, and favourite actress in a while.

Q.What is your favourite video game and why? - MasterBolt360.

A. This is an evil question for any gamer to answer, hehehe. I grew up in the Sega/Nintendo era, dabbled in gameboy, N64, and moved onto Sony/XBox. There's a glut of fond memories to choose from. Seriously though, it's a good one. Everyone has their favourite franchises, but an individual game is more telling.

I could choose old titles like Revenge Of Shinobi, Comix Zone, Resident Evil 3: Nemesis, Driver, Super Mario World 2, Metal Gear Solid etc, but want to pick from this gen instead:

As a gamer, I feel dirty for picking a shooter. They aren't the most taxing, compared to other genres. Although, I've always had a soft spot for Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter - especially the sequel.

Why do I like it?

GRAW 2 has a sobering presentation, which elicits a warm, fuzzy feeling. My eyes don't light up in the same way with Sam Fisher or Bishop. I'm not sure why, but Captain Scott Mitchell has a quality I respect.

The visuals are gorgeous, on the ground and from the air. You get to choose weapons, squad mates and offensive/defensive packs for each scenario. (I spam the smoke grenades.) Dialogue is cheesy, but the combat is always satisfying and tense. Meaty explosions and authentic A.I make up for a lack of cinematics. Narrative is fed through comm/vid links providing a 'you are there' quality.

The tactical aspect sucks me in most. I feel like I'm achieving something when directing a squad. There's an added tension (and unpredictability) to having three people under your command. I appreciate taking my time, assessing a 'hot' combat situation, even when bullets are zipping past Mitchell's ear. There's real (intellectual) satisfaction in moving to a location, securing it and fiercely defending your ground. Everyone is important, at all times, moving together as one.

Objectives are clear, but not cheap. I enjoy spending most of the time digging in behind cover. I prefer facing massive resistance, and forming a game plan, than running and gunning. Game play doesn't hold you by the hand like COD either which is refreshing. If a team mate goes down, it's a test of nerves to keep everyone safe and active. If you f*** up an objective, then it's down to your judgement.

GRAW 2 is a thinking man's game relying on teamwork and concentration. That's why it's my favourite.

Q. What's your favourite tv programme on tv at the moment? - Shoot2kill1989.

A. Embarrassingly, TNA Impact. :oops: I'm not really watching anything new, in terms of drama. A lot of my favourites have wrapped up (Sons Of Anarchy, Castle, True Blood, Doctor Who, V, Caprica etc.) I've reached season three of The Wire on DVD, and also season four of Babylon 5. Both are heavy going in their storytelling, and TNA helps to switch my brain off for a couple hours.

I've been a fan of pro wrestling for over a decade. In January, I went to my first live tour, and have a deeper respect for the talent now. The tv broadcasts don't really capture the buzz and physicality of a live show. The live tour changed my perception of the industry.

Anyway.. Tonight, 'Spooks' will be my favourite tv show of the moment. Produced by the BBC, it's a British 24, focusing on the world of MI5. I haven't watched it since season two/three, and it's already into the ninth! Storylines are tense, with twisting, conspiracy laden plotlines. So, I'm looking forward to getting addicted again!

Q. What's your favourite hobby besides gaming? - Dethskematik.

A. Being creative! Pencil drawing is the easiest (read convenient thing) to do, but I enjoy other mediums like oil pastels and acrylic. The messier the better! People are my main focus (I like giving myself a headache :)), but can draw mostly anything. As an artist, I never turn down a request, because it's good practice.

In 2003, I took art seriously, attending a six month college course. I went once a week, and look back on the experience fondly. There were some characters and talented people there.

We were allowed to draw anything we wanted, which was great. At first, I thought I'd get ridiculed, but reactions had the opposite effect. A few people were curious about the subject matter. My first project dealt with ufos, the second with alien landscapes and third was the Osbourne family. :lol:

Here are a few pieces from my portfolio:

'Visitors' rendered in chalk. 'O Misterio Do Et Brasileiro' rendered in crayon and acrylic.

Concept art for The Creature Of Varginha.

Terminator 2 fan art, and a work in progress of actor James Marsters.

Still life.

A still life drawing of a PsOne controller.

This is just a fun request to all my gamespot friends...

I'm open to any questions (gaming, tv, music, sport, real life etc) you guys may wish to ask. Please leave a question below. I'll pick the best ones, and answer them fully in my next blog. (On Monday.)

Anywho.. I'm a conversationalist at heart, and thought this would be a good ice breaker, to get to know you all better and vice versa.

Hope everyone's having a relaxing weekend thus far!

Recently watched:

Kick-Ass.

So you wanna play?

As a rule, I like to wait until the DvD release of any movie. Not that I loathe the thrill of cinema. (I'm the type of person who keeps ticket stubs.) :) The cosy mileau of a bedroom with home made snacks is less expensive and distracting though. I can appreciate the nuances of direction better, without a running commentary from three rows back.

If I'm careful, I'll remain fairly spoiler free and unswayed by the critics. This might seem an impossible feat, considering all the tv spots, internet coverage, and billboards around, but it's do-able!

Which, is what I managed to do with Matthew Vaughn's Kick-Ass. On Friday, I bought the DvD with a free, exclusive comic inside. After months of delay, what are my final thoughts on the movie?

From brief glimpses, I learned enough from the promos to know it wasn't 'Meet The Spartans.' The writers had made a superhero comedy with heart. (Red Mist stumbling into an alley and Hit-Girl's ability etc.) What I didn't expect, and absolutely loved, was how brutal the plot turned out to be! I haven't laughed, cried and winced so much since.. Well.. Guy Ritchie's Rock'N'Rolla.

There was one scene in particular, (highlight with mouse) where Hit-Girl tried to save Kick-Ass and a fiery Big Daddy, which was heartbreaking and awesome.

That's how bat sh** insane Kick-Ass is.

Hit-Girl obviously stole the show with her foul mouth and psycho mentality. Her stabby antics could give Buffy and Norman Bates a run for their money. Nicholas Cage was deliciously warped as the comic book artist raising his preteen daughter. I wasn't keen on the Batman-esque costume, but glad the writers deliberately poked fun. I also liked Katie, aka Lyndsy Fonseca, as the romantic interest.

Kick-Ass is definitely up there with my all time favourites. (Terminator 2, Black Snake Moan, The Big Lebowski, Battle Royale etc.) The one liners were sharp, and I grew to champion Dave, and his wish to be a superhero. If anything, my expectations were surpassed with the blend of sophomore comedy and extreme violence. Two genres that worked well. The laughs, peppered with shocking moments, were a pure rollercoaster ride.

The Wire, Season Two.

We got to keep the devil, way down in the hole.

My addiction to The Wire isn't new (check blog archive), although it's growing with each episode. Crime has shifted to the docks, in the form of shady human trafficking/drug dealings between the Greeks and Polaks. McNulty is relegated to coastguard duty, while the rest are reassigned to less glamorous details. On the street, Avon Barksdale is keeping the drug business alive from jail.

This year, I'm still unchanged with my favourite characters. Omar is a character who definitely needs more screen time though. I'm hoping he'll return to cause havok when the drug war heats up. So far, McNulty's team are just connecting all the dots, focusing on the dock conspiracy, and know they'll have to cross over eventually in later scripts.

Ziggy is a funny and tragic addition. His dock worker peers treat him like a joke, constantly winding him up. I'm keeping my fingers crossed he isn't capped. In most dramas, the characters I grow fond of usually come to a tragic end. Currently, he's bought a duck, and I've no idea why. :lol: He desperately wants to be respected by the wrong crowd. He's already crossed paths with a street gang, and they wrecked his wheels.

I was pleased to see Chris Baur (Frank Sabotka), who also played Andy Bellefleur in True Blood. I enjoy his roles, and am finding him to be a great actor. On The Wire, his character is sensing something 'off' with their illegal operation, wondering if they're being watched by the cops. So, it'll be good to see how everything pans out, if he'll meet a horrible end or crawl out of the mess alive. There's already been one death, so I can't dare to place a guess on who's next.

On a separate note, I didn't like the new rendition of the main theme at first, but it's growing on me now. Funnily, the same thing will happen next season,and I'll probably hate it to begin with too. :D

Anywho.. The second season is still hard hitting, engrossing and doesn't miss a beat. If you're lazy on who did/said what where and when, the show doesn't recap anything. Also, the boxsets are retailing around $23 (£15) at my local music store, so I'm happy to buy them up cheaply. (At this rate, I'm onto disc four already.)

Right now, I can't get enough of this cop drama, and know I'll be annoyed when there's no more. :)