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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Review – Middle Earth, Middle Third
December 31, 2013 October 5, 2014 / Reshoot&Rewind	/ Leave a comment
Director: Peter Jackson
Writers: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro (screenplay), J. R. R. Tolkien (novel)
Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage, Orlando Bloom
Release date: December 13th, 2013
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures
Countries: New Zealand, USA
Best part: The barrel sequence.
Worst part: The dodgy CGI.
Despite the obvious flaws, Peter Jackson's much-anticipated Hobbit trilogy is an easy target. Criticised for its story-telling issues, its multitude of characters, and the 48 frames-per-second debacle, this series still hasn't been given a fair chance. Buried under hype, directorial power, and desperate marketing ploys (looking at you, Air New Zealand!), it's becoming increasingly difficult to judge these instalments as single entities. These movies, innocently, reach out to fan boys and average filmgoers alike. So, like this series' lead character, why not give something grandiose and enthralling a chance to succeed? The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, though inconsistent, swiftly soars above the already enjoyable original.
Martin Freeman.
To elaborate on these points, all modern blockbusters suffer from overhype and exhaustive pre-and-post-release critical backlash. Audiences are more willing to criticise a big-budget fantasy flick than an independent romantic dramedy. With 'perfect' movies impossible to craft, let's judge movies like The Desolation of Smaug for what they are. With enlightening performances, engaging action sequences, and a straight-faced facade, this fantasy-epic lives up to expectations. Despite Jackson's overt self-indulgence and excessiveness, his adaptations stand the test of time and honour J.R.R. Tolkien's influential legacy. However, whilst crafting this prequel trilogy's unique identity, Jackson inadvisably stretches each instalment until breaking point. Here, the narrative picks up immediately after the events of An Unexpected Journey. With burglar and trustworthy Hobbit Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) keeping watch over the horizon, his 13 Dwarf companions, led by Thorin (Richard Armitage), scour the landscape for hidden passages and safe places. Despite Gandalf the Grey(Ian McKellen)'s unabashed admiration, Bilbo is unsure of his responsibilities on this all-important journey. After being rescued by Skin-changer Beorn (Mikael Persbrandt), the group heads for Mirkwood to continue their trek toward the Lonely Mountain. With the Dwarves eager to retake their homeland from vicious and greedy dragon Smaug (Benedict Cumberbatch), the group comes across the spiders and Elves inhabiting this treacherous forest. Disdained by Elf-king Thranduil (Lee Pace), Thorin must find courage before continuing this quest. Fortunately, Legolas (Orlando Bloom), Tauriel (Evangeline Lilly), and Bard (Luke Evans) seek to aid this commendable band of heroes.
Ian McKellen.
Like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, The Desolation of Smaug, despite bridging the first and final instalments, seeks to craft a recognisable identity and several commendable moments. Fortunately, this sequel successfully links this trilogy to the Lord of the Rings saga. Around every corner, references and titbits sit proudly on display. Jackson, blinded by immense talent, is infatuated with his over-long and bombastic creations. Despite my previous statements, I'll admit that dividing one book into three epic movies is a nonsensical and preposterous idea. This decision's immense consequences are immanently noticeable. From the compelling prologue onward, the bloated story becomes chaotic. Here, Jackson introduces several potentially intriguing sub-plots and character arcs. Adapting the book's middle third and appendices to fit into this sprawling middle instalment, Jackson's toy-box-like mind goes overboard. With several weird, vicious, and engaging characters hurriedly introduced, the first third will leave series newcomers scratching their heads. Don't get me wrong; Jackson is indeed a transformative and imaginative filmmaker. However, there's a specific reason why the appendices are wholly separated from Tolkien's other Middle Earth adventures. Jackson, taking control of the book series' every intricacy, awkwardly wedges plot-strands, prophecies, and set pieces together throughout The Desolation of Smaug's exhaustive 2hr 45min run-time. In addition, Jackson and co. invent characters, obstacles, and plot-threads at their own volition. This method brashly dilutes the original material's charming and engaging identity. However, despite the narrative knots, the sequel's boisterous charm, gripping chase-movie structure, and visual splendour distract from several story inconsistencies and directorial foibles. Thanks to an action-packed first third, the original's pacing and tempo issues are fixed. Following the LOTR trilogy and An Unexpected Journey's familiar structures, this repetitive sequel removes suspense and intrigue from this influential franchise.
Richard Armitage & the Dwarves.
With The Desolation of Smaug specifically served as an action-adventure flick and Boxing Day release, these movies identify themselves as LOTR prequels more so than children's book adaptations. Looking up to the original trilogy's influential story-telling tropes and immaculate action set pieces, this trilogy's reach has already exceeded its grasp. Despite the first third's exciting moments, the movie stops dead during the second act. Here, the exciting chase sequences transition into comedic hijinks, dialogue sequences, and complex exposition. After the group is smuggled into Lake-town, we are introduced to the city's economic and political structures. Transitioning from action to drama, the political debates and hierarchal systems place pointless conflicts on top of the group's urgent quest. Thankfully, Jackson's visual flourishes and attention to detail elevate this convoluted fantasy-adventure. Throwing more orcs, men, and elves into the on-coming war for Middle Earth, this sequel continually ups the ante. Fixing this series' pressing tonal shifts and pacing flaws, the action set pieces expand this wondrous and enrapturing universe. Following the bear attack, the spider sequence is a visceral and glorious thrill-ride. Jackson, known to inject disgusting creepy-crawlies into extraordinary tales (King Kong), uses zany surprises and jump-scares to push this sequence into overdrive. However, the movie's stand out set piece is the group's barrel escape down a dangerous river system. This enlightening sequence throws orcs, dwarves, and elves into an ingenious battle. With distinctive fighting styles defining certain characters, stakes are raised throughout this set piece. In addition, Bilbo and Smaug's climactic battle of wits gleefully caps off this exhaustive instalment. The creature designs, thanks to visual effects company WETA Digital, are all top notch. Providing sensory thrills and gripping surprises, the spiders, orcs, bears, and wargs are breath-taking and confronting creations.
"I will not die like this, clawing for life…If this is to end in fire, then we will all burn together!" (Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage), The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug).
Orlando Bloom.
Despite the endless shots of New Zealand's mountainous scenery, the CGI vastly overshadows the practical effects. Rushing through the post-production stage, Jackson haphazardly throws several unrefined effects into his finished product. For a multi-million-dollar production, short cuts like this aren't advisable. The original trilogy's stirling practical effects are inexplicably replaced with green screens and Playstation-2-level digital creations. Sadly, several locations, action set pieces, and characters appear noticeably artificial. Despite these issues, the comedic hijinks lighten the sickeningly dark tone for brief moments. Slapstick gags and witty one-liners highlight the absurdities embedded in these pressing situations. Our heroes, unlike those of most modern fantasy-epics, are defined by complex and likeable personalities. Despite taking a back seat in this instalment, Bilbo is still a cheekily engaging and determined lead character. Tasked with a specific purpose, Bilbo becomes a wise and courageous individual. Here, his conflict with the ring is pushed to the forefront. Providing dry wit for this fan-favourite character, Freeman grows into this all-encompassing role. Facing off against his Sherlock co-star, Freeman provides a charismatic and idiosyncratic performance. Gleefully, Cumberbatch, as the powerful and intelligent antagonist, steals his scenes. Delivering conquering vocal and physical mannerisms for this fascinating character, he relishes in motion capture technology's over-whelming potential. Despite Gandalf's insufficient sub-pot, McKellen delivers another engaging performance and elevates certain scenes. Unfortunately, only two dwarves are given definitive personalities. Despite Armitage's intriguing portrayal, his character mirrors Aragorn to a fault. However, the elf characters are charismatic. Bloom and Lilly's screen presences boost significant plot-lines.
With love triangles, action sequences, comedic hijinks, and character arcs filling this instalment's extensive run-time, The Desolation of Smaug is a significant improvement over the original. With Bilbo stepping aside, the other characters are given valuable room to breathe. Jackson, despite the overt infatuation with his own material, confidently delivers an exhilarating and gripping roller-coaster ride. With The Hobbit: There and Back Again linking both trilogies, a shorter instalment may hold viewer interest.
Verdict: A hearty, enjoyable yet convoluted sequel.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Review – Jet Lag
Director: Ben Stiller
Writer: Steve Conrad (screenplay), James Thurber (short story)
Stars: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Adam Scott, Sean Penn
Distributor: 20th Century Fox
2½/5
Best part: The charming performances.
Worst part: The awkward comedic hijinks.
For short periods of time, daydreams detach us from our conscious selves to provide joy, exhilaration, and knowledge. In these intimate moments, the boundaries separating reality and fantasy are blurred. Escaping from mundane situations, people zone out to temporarily experience something else entirely. This broad description illuminates similarities between this particular humanistic action and cinema's overall purpose. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty director/star Ben Stiller invites us to follow in his larger-than-life footsteps. However, this fantasy-adventure flick becomes as tepid and unexacting as the situations we subconsciously escape from. The movie, though peppered with exciting sequences, may be drowned out by more influential holiday releases. Also, this superficial yet exhilarating comedy-adventure won't attract newcomers to Stiller's zippy filmography.
Ben Stiller.
With its ingenious premise, Stiller had the perfect opportunity to make a profoundly engaging and heartening remake. However, as a perfect example of 2½-star entertainment, Walter Mitty is only a utilitarian and concise comedy-adventure. Walter Mitty, despite its commendable intentions and engaging performances, is crushed by Stiller's immense hubris. In lesser hands, this movie would get a free pass. However, with Stiller's immense success in front of and behind the camera, the movie never cements his noteworthy talents and courageous oeuvre. Unfortunately, this disappointing yet enlightening adventure hurts more than expected. With an intriguing premise and immaculate big-budget-film-making tools at his disposal, Stiller's adaptation of James Thurber's short story becomes a saccharine and uninspired 2-hour Hallmark moment. Being the second big-screen remake after the 1947 Danny-Kaye-starring version, this version proves quality deservedly overshadows quantity. The plot, diverting from Thurber's influential material, borrows from several genres, movements, and generic action-adventure conventions. This version kicks into gear when office drone and lonely schlub Walter Mitty (Stiller) walks into New York's LIFE Magazine headquarters. Sadly, with the magazine transitioning from print to online, the majority of employees face the chopping block. Facing constant complaints from transition manager Ted Hendricks (Adam Scott), Mitty has little time to impress cute co-worker Cheryl Melhoff (Kristen Wiig).
Kristen Wiig.
Unable to efficiently operate his E-Harmony dating profile, Mitty faces loneliness, unemployment, and a debilitatingly miserable existence. However, his fortunes change thanks to one photonegative. With negative no. 25 missing from photojournalist Sean O. Connell(Sean Penn)'s final LIFE Magazine reel, Mitty takes it upon himself to track down the all-important image. At the behest of mother Edna (Shirley MacLaine) and sister Odessa (Kathryn Hahn), Mitty – normally escaping to (dreaming up) fantastical worlds and dangerous situations – embarks on a spiritually transformative journey across the world. As a family-friendly farce, the movie becomes an uninspired and inoffensive Frank Capra-esque trip down memory lane (in multiple ways). However, this version contains several outstanding moments and concepts. Stiller's creative side occasionally rises above the conventional and manipulative material. With daydreaming a commonplace practice, the first few scenes are, despite the CGI set-pieces and outlandish scenarios, startlingly relatable. His fantasies – ranging from jumping through windows, to saving dogs from explosions, to being a seductive mountaineer crashing into LIFE Magazine headquarters – are suitably charming. However, this movie doesn't add up to the sum of its parts. These dream sequences, though enthralling, add little to the movie's enlightening narrative. Despite the glorious imagery and sweet touches, the movie's all-important intricacies are wholly separated from one another. Unfortunately, Walter Mitty is significantly less enthralling than Stiller thinks it is.
Adam Scott.
Underneath its alluring sheen, the story hits familiar beats and dull patches. Sadly, the movie sticks to every Stiller-comedy-movie trope. With underwhelming twists and turns, kooky characters, and unexplored subplots, the movie never reaches its full potential. Sporting major logic leaps and contrivances, the stakes are limited despite Mitty's stupefying journey. Tonally shifting between specific plot-strands and influences, the movie is also overwhelmed by its self-consciousness and contrarian messages. Throughout this roller-coaster ride, Stiller's perspective hurriedly switches between each overcooked and excessive idea. Its living-the-dream overtones are overtly and repeatedly touched upon. In addition, this clichéd theme clashes with Stiller's commentary on the working class hero. Beyond this, it ignorantly dives into the modernity vs. tradition debate. Switching from underdog story to hypocritical Hollywood farce, Walter Mitty is as shaky and bizarre as the titular character's imagination. Despite the significant flaws, Walter Mitty, dramatically and visually, alludes to several distinctive comedies and influential dramas. As a Boxing Day family-friendly smash, the movie is comparable to Life of Pi. In addition, the movie's ambitiousness and scope are reminiscent of Forrest Gump and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (the latter awkwardly referenced here). However, the most relevant influence is Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind. This whimsical yet forgettable drama marks Stiller's most earnest directorial effort yet. With Zoolander and Tropic Thunder being quotable and energetic big-budget comedies, Stiller has proven himself a note-worthy and engaging director.
"I just live by the ABCs: Adventurous, Brave, Creative." (Sean O'Connell (Sean Penn), The Secret Life of Walter Mitty).
Sean Penn.
His style normally highlights each project's most unique and outrageous aspects. However, Walter Mitty's visual flourishes and directorial ticks become steadily irritating. Influenced by Michel Gondry, Woody Allen, Danny Boyle, and Robert Zemeckis, Stiller develops a pale concoction of the aforementioned filmmakers' styles. Unable to deliver the comedic timing, zany visuals, and kinetic pacing of his previous efforts, his style lacks edginess, heart, or creativity. Each trick, awkwardly plastered across the screen for convenience' sake, decreases the movie's overall emotional impact. Stiller – pasting words across settings, adding montages at opportune moments, and flooding sunlight into every frame – applies conventionality to his extraordinary narrative. However, Stuart Dryburgh's immaculate cinematography delivers vertigo-inducing thrills. Iceland, Greenland, New York and, the Himalayas are gorgeous and exhilarating locations. Also, the skateboarding and mountaineering sequences elevate the second half. However, the distracting product placement damages Mitty's comically charged adventure. Shout-outs to E-Harmony, Papa Johns, American Airlines, and LIFE Magazine contradict the story's over-arching messages. Despite Stiller's comedic chops, the hit-and-miss gags provide false notes. Only a handful of clever lines save this otherwise dour dramedy. Despite the cookie-cutter characters, the enlightening performances are refreshing. Stiller, though preoccupied, delivers a gleeful and multi-dimensional performance. Playing a familiar average Joe type, his earnestness fits this intriguing role. Wiig is an engaging presence as Mitty's quick-witted love interest. Scott ably portrays yet another over-the-top antagonist. Thankfully, Penn and Patton Oswalt bring tenderness and heart to the movie's final third.
With insurance-advertisement-level depth and Kodak-moment-level visual stimulus, Walter Mitty is an advantageous yet misguided vanity project. With self-affirming shots of Stiller's face, CGI overload, conventional screenwriting, and engaging performances, Stiller's latest directorial effort becomes a confusing, pandering, yet engaging fantasy-adventure aiming specifically at common audiences.
Verdict: An awe-inspiring yet underwhelming comedy-adventure.
American Hustle Review – ABSCAM Anarchy
Director: David O. Russell
Writers: Eric Singer, David O. Russell
Stars: Christian Bale, Bradley Cooper, Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner
Distributors: Columbia Pictures, Entertainment Film Distributors, Roadshow Entertainment
Best part: The entertaining performances.
Worst part: The alienating plot turns.
In one of American Hustle's more pivotal scenes, Christian Bale's Character Irving Rosenfeld asks Bradley Cooper's character Richie DiMaso the movie's most important question: "Who's the master? The Painter? Or the forger?". Despite being the trailer's most valuable moment, the query still efficiently sums up this crime-drama's raw edginess. American Hustle, safely landing into Academy-Award-contention territory, is one of 2013's most puzzling yet entertaining movies. Its top-flight cast, enigmatic plot, and dizzying set pieces deliver multiple rewards.
Christian Bale & Bradley Cooper.
Despite presenting itself as a "For Your Consideration…" Oscar trap, American Hustle is an honest and adept crime-drama. Today, we rarely become witness to such ground-breaking yet kinetic movies. Despite facing stiff competition in this year's Oscar race, American Hustle wouldn't care if it won, lost, or drew. Acclaimed director David O. Russell (The Fighter, Silver Linings Playbook) is obviously his own man. Given his fiery on-set temper and inspiring talent, O. Russell achieves the near impossible – delivering a stylish, convoluted, and enlightening crime drama free from pretentiousness and overblown moments. Despite my glowing recommendation of American Hustle, I understand the movie's already-discomforting-yet-minor backlash. It's certainly not for everyone. At least, I can try to win people over by describing the movie's terrific yet dicey plot. Rosenfeld (Bale) is a despicable businessman running several companies within New Jersey. With his dry-cleaning and glass-installation businesses in tip-top condition, he becomes a slimy yet clever small-town hero. However, Rosenfeld's world is rocked by seductive beauty Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams). With Prosser becoming Rosenfeld's mistress/business partner, their greatest plans kick into gear. Embezzling large funds from gullible investors, the terrible twosome expand their vast riches. Thanks to Prosser's alter ego 'Lady Edith Greensly', their schemes and romance blossom into something dreadfully beautiful (or beautifully dreadful, it's difficult to tell). However, Rosenfeld is bewitched by his bi-polar wife Rosalyn (Jennifer Lawrence) and adrenaline-and-cocaine-fuelled FBI agent DiMaso (Cooper). Forced into the FBI's clutches, Rosenfeld, Prosser, and DiMaso forcefully work together to take down corrupt yet well-meaning Camden Mayor Carmine Polito (Jeremy Renner).
Amy Adams.
From there, allegiances, plans, and ideologies are warped, tortured, and eviscerated. It may seem diabolical, but the dramatic beats liven up this talky crime-drama. Depicting the late-70s' ABSCAM scandal, American Hustle delves into the true story's intricate webbing and most enigmatic elements. With its opening title card saying: "Some of this actually happened", the movie pokes fun at Hollywood's stranglehold over inspirational yet unbelievable true stories. After biting into ABSCAM's saucy yet dangerous secrets, the movie sporadically delves into its own fantastical and larger-than-life adventure. I'll admit, the convoluted plot-strands and alienating exposition become this cognitive structure's most problematic elements. However, these inane moments hurriedly brush past the audience. Its most memorable moments are worth the admission cost. Here, ABSCAM's most confusing aspects are insignificant titbits stuck in an increasingly formidable conflict. Before and after the scandal is brought up then brushed aside, the characters take control of the movie's electrifying and alarming narrative. Within the first ten minutes, American Hustle takes us on a discomforting, sexually appealing, and comedic journey. Thanks to Rosenfeld and Prosser's shared narration, these characters introduce and describe themselves. O. Russell, continually choosing controversy over convention, makes several brave choices within the first act. Beyond the schizophrenic narration, the narrative jumps from one influence to another. Despite the movie's overt self-indulgence, O. Russell displays a glowing affection for such influential crime-drama directors as Martin Scorsese, Paul Thomas Anderson, and Sidney Lumet. The tonal shifts, ever-changing perspectives, and debilitating plot-turns are derived from Goodfellas and Casino. In fact, like those pulsating movies, American Hustle graciously explores the criminal mind's most fascinating intricacies.
Jeremy Renner.
Despite the engaging narrative, the plot occasionally gets away from O. Russell and co-writer Eric Singer. Highlighting the true story's most baffling parts, the movie locks onto its comical and distasteful characters. Despite this, the movie's sickening comedic touches quickly launch into overdrive. With the wild characters embracing this pressing situation's absurdity, the biting and ironic humour comes thick and fast. Stuck between rocks and hard places, these dim-witted heroes and villains bumble, wine, and cuss through every dangerous conflict. With lives and reputations at risk, insults fly across each swanky setting. In particular, Rosalyn's nasty insults and abrasive attitude hit with gut-punch-like effect. Credit, obviously, belongs to O. Russell for the movie's pitch-black humour and cynical outlook. Despite the punchy tone and zippy pacing, O. Russell's work hurriedly descends into darkness and chaos. With his filmography covering the gulf war, mental illness, and fallen sporting heroes, his misanthropic perspective casts a detailed shadow over each unique project. American Hustle, his most violent and zany effort yet, illuminates similarities between 70s, post-Vietnam USA and post-economic-crisis Earth. O. Russell, giving fraudulent miscreants second chances whist looking down upon important government agencies, develops several truthful yet misguided opinions. Like Catch Me if You Can and The Informant, American Hustle's criminal/lawman conflict supports the anti-hero and flips-off the villainous yet untouchable government fat-cats. At least, O. Russell's work says what we are all thinking. Beyond that, O. Russell bravely pokes fun at the American Dream. Deliberating on race, gender, and class, the movie makes middle class, suburban living seem like a torturous adventure. Setting household appliances, inventive schemes, and aspirations alight, American Hustle is not for the faint-hearted or ignorant.
"Did you ever have to find a way to survive and you knew your choices were bad, *but* you had to survive?" (Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale), American Hustle).
Jennifer Lawrence.
Thankfully, for less-opinionated viewers, the visuals develop a kinetic and entertaining sensory experience. Sporting elaborate costumes, hair-dos, and personalities, each character sustains exterior and interior quirks. With these characters' schemes as outlandish as their skin-flashing outfits, the costume design lends American Hustle a pulsating and tangible sheen. In addition, each character – whether they be rich, poor, innocent or slimy – balances stupefying hair-dos atop their attractive facades. DiMaso's perm, Rosalyn's beehive, and Polito's road-kill-like hairstyle are enlightening distractions. Opening with Rosenfeld pasting a bizarre toupee atop his bulbous scalp, American Hustle's characters are defined by styles and substance. The mis-en-scene, plastering ugly colours, swanky interior designs, and elaborate patterns across every frame, lends verisimilitude to this otherwise sketchy and kooky narrative. O. Russell, infatuated by overt 70s icons, pumps up the catchy soundtrack at opportune moments. Wings, Steely Dan, The Bee Gees, and Elton John elevate certain tension-inducing sequences. However, credit belongs to the A-list actors draped across every sizzling frame. Their determination and courageousness, tested by O. Russell's punishing direction, pushes them through each discomforting scene. Like O. Russell's previous efforts, the shouting matches develop each puzzle piece and flawed character. Swiftly increasing each interior setting's temperature, the pithy dialogue and loud voices reveal each character's ugliest qualities. Bale, carrying a belly and comb-over, transforms into a seedy, depraved, and quick-witted figure. Cooper steals his scenes as the incessant and manic agent. Adams, falling boob-first into every scene, is revelatory as the slinky yet tough mistress. Renner and Lawrence provide big laughs and immaculate performances. Meanwhile, Robert De Niro, Louis CK, Alessandro Nivola, Jack Huston, and Michael Pena contribute commendably.
With his energetic direction, elegant screenplay, and Fighter and Silver Linings Playbook alumni, O. Russell has pulled off a stunning hat-trick. Despite minor quarrels, American Hustle peels back several purposeful layers over its 2+ hour run-time. Unlike American Gangster, American Psycho, and American Pie, this crime-drama discovers that particular word's immense ironic twang.
Verdict: A funny, scintillating, and engaging crime-drama.
Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues Review – Big News, Bigger Laughs
Writers: Will Ferrell, Adam McKay
Stars: Will Ferrell, Steve Carrell, Paul Rudd, David Koechner
Distributor: Paramount Pictures
Best part: The zany humour.
Worst part: The exhaustive run-time.
Review: Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
Verdict: A hilarious, zany, and touching comedy sequel.
20 Feet from Stardom Review – Love Ballad
Director: Morgan Neville
Stars: Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer, Judith Hill
Release date: June 13th, 2013
Distributor: RADiUS-TWC
Best part: The interviews.
Worst part: The overt symbolism.
The best documentaries take subjects of little commercial interest and thrust them into the spotlight. With each production, these informative works may inspire or disgust. Despite cynical preconceived ideas about documentary filmmaking, movies like 20 Feet from Stardom are far more entertaining than many expansive Hollywood efforts. Peeling back layers developed by heartache and fond memories, this well-crafted and ambitious movie explores a vital strand of popular music. This documentary, thanks to its informative structure and unique interviewees, is one of 2013's greatest surprises. I could talk all day about this movie's glowing highlights because, honestly, positive word of mouth is needed for this year's most ground-breaking documentaries.
Darlene Love.
As the unsung heroes of modern music, backup singers support popular groups. Despite the overwhelming talent at the front of each stage, backup singers bravely place themselves in full view. Movie and live music audiences generally focus on both art forms' most controversial and appealing aspects. However, like character actors, backup singers provide heart, character, and consistency. This documentary, focusing on several inspirational African-American women, is an intriguing and heartfelt examination of pop culture. In the opening scenes, we are welcomed into this interesting and engaging world. Soul singer Darlene Love reunites with her backup-singer companions. Reflecting upon fond memories, Love and co. relay vital information about their connections to music, family, and spirituality. Merry Clayton, a gospel singing icon, reflects upon great musicians including The Rolling Stones. Starting out with church choirs and ceremonial performances, the interviewees deliberate on transitioning from first recitals to overwhelming stardom. The gorgeous Claudia Lennear discusses her relationship with the 'sexiness' of pop culture and Mick Jagger's stardom. Lisa Fischer deliberates on her professional and personal livelihoods. Fischer's determination and energy, encapsulated by powerful vocals, places her in the all-important spotlight. On the other side of the coin, 29-year-old Judith Hill, workaholic and optimistic soul, speaks out about the modern music industry's wheelings and dealings. These singers, with several engaging similarities despite the generational gaps, focus on their frustrating yet engaging profession.
Our singers in action.
From the first second, 20 Feet from Stardom establishes itself as a profound and in-depth analysis of music, culture, and hope. This art form, placing a powerful stranglehold on every demographic throughout history, is depicted as a source of knowledge, happiness, and inspiration. Veteran music documentary director Morgan Neville (Johnny Cash's America) reminds us that individuality and rebelliousness cause ripple effects. For these select few singers, their ripples hit family members, friends, fans, and music industry types. For the most part, Neville presents these interviewees as fair and honest individuals. After efficiently establishing their career highlights, the movie delves into far more sinister territory. In the opening few scenes, Neville focuses on the present. With little knowledge about influential backup singers, I found an enlightening avenue to explore. Thankfully, the movie chronicles each subject's enviable and empathetic traits. Love, for example, is presented as an ordinary citizen with magnificent memories. Neville, optimistically, presents these subjects as humble and bright figures. They, despite their brushes with fame and fortune, view the world like everyone else. From an early age, family, religion, and artistic value influenced these subjects to pursue this career. Here, certain origin stories are compared to one another. This style, highlighting choir and gospel music's immense value, links these influential artists. Ultimately, intertwining strands illuminate 20 Feet from Stardom's narrative and themes. Born from hilarious anecdotes and fond friendships, the movie examines art, culture, and equality's historical and thematic relevance. Neville's work also delves into personal stories and race relations. Neville, infatuated with each subject, focuses on every profound word. Taboo subjects, including Lennear's controversial Playboy shoot, are tenderly and stylishly reflected upon. Neville, Love and co. present several opinions and anecdotes for viewers to analyse. However, despite the glowing interviewees and over-whelming musical montages, the movie isn't perfect.
"How can you logically not have a diva have her music on? I don't get that." (Merry Clayton, 20 Feet from Stardom).
Merry Clayton.
The structure, despite touching upon the 20th Century's greatest musicians, wavers throughout the final third. The movie, without delivering a satisfactory conclusion, is occasionally presented as generic PR material. Despite these gripes, the minor flaws are matched by the stellar direction and production design. Neville – presenting his subjects as saviours, sisters, queens, and warriors – douses the screen with selective visual flourishes. After the engaging opening credit sequence, the movie delves into stardom and pop culture's most enlightening aspects. Consistently, Neville plays archival footage and classic tunes. Reflecting upon several glorious and influential moments, this style highlights Love and co.'s stranglehold upon music history. However, in the second half, the snappy visuals are replaced with confronting personal stories. These moments, though dour, deliver several necessary gut punches. Placed in a specific timeline, these scenes outline the pros and cons of this alluring profession. Unfortunately, despite each anecdote's worthiness, Neville's heavy handedness sticks out. With ludicrous symbolism under-cutting several points, the final third belabours the all-important messages. Fortunately, in the movie's most subtle moments, the interviewees are engaging, enthusiastic, and likeable. Love, known for her profound artistic endeavours, is a warming presence. Defined by her distinctive chuckle, her stories – describing everything from house cleaning to Lethal Weapon supporting roles – will lift audience spirits. The same goes for Clayton's baffling tales of stardom and rejection. With her awe-inspiring vocals, Clayton brought one of The Rolling Stones' most popular hits to life. Playing 'Gimme Shelter' back to Clayton, Neville illustrates her cultural importance. The song's standout line – "Rape, murder! It's just a shot away" – sends chills down the spine. In addition, renowned and caricature-like musicians including Mick Jagger, Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, and Sting support the documentary's many stirling points.
With a heartfelt narrative, intriguing interviewees, and pulsating visuals, 20 Feet from Stardom is an underrated documentary delving into an obscure art form. Delving into race relations, fame, and femininity, Neville's work pushes boundaries whilst delivering an entertaining thrill-ride. Oscar consideration is around the corner for this transcendent, tender, and enjoyable trip down memory lane.
Verdict: An inspirational and energetic music documentary.
Delivery Man Review – Vaughn's Vindication
December 8, 2013 October 2, 2014 / Reshoot&Rewind	/ Leave a comment
Director: Ken Scott
Writers: Ken Scott, Martin Petit
Stars: Vince Vaughn, Chris Pratt, Cobie Smulders, Andrzej Blumenfeld
Release date: November 22nd, 2013
Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Best part: The fun performances.
Worst part: The repetitive gags.
I let out an audible groan after I first heard about Delivery Man's existence. As a remake of the 2011 French-Canadian comedy Starbuck, the premise seemed entirely conventional and cynical. Soon after, I became more disdainful when comedic actor Vince Vaughn attached himself to the project. Somehow, by the powers of Grayskull and tinsel-town, this blatant re-tread turned out to be…genuinely watchable. Delivery Man is a generic yet enjoyably silly and heart-warming dramedy. In addition, Vaughn, though straining, wholeheartedly elevates the final product.
Vince Vaughn.
Despite the inconsistencies and awkward moments, Delivery Man embraces every second of its appropriate run-time. Unlike most Hollywood comedies, the movie contains enough laughs to keep audiences engaged. As seen in the trailers, the plot contains several twists, turns, and bumps. Good-for-nothing slacker David Wosniak (Vaughn) ambitiously strives to obtain a more fulfilling existence. Constantly letting people down, David's reserve is tested by his frustrated family and friends. If that wasn't enough, his 'hydroponic endeavours' have landed him in an $80 000 debt with local gangsters. On top of that, David's world is sent spinning when his estranged girlfriend Emma (Cobie Smulders) reveals she is pregnant. With an oncoming child, David admits he is unprepared and outgunned for his life's next step. Unfortunately, his past comes back to haunt him. Thanks to a whopping 693 sperm donations given during his student years, his samples have created a baffling 533 biological children. Burdened by the strange news, David becomes a wishful saviour for several of the identified children.
Vaughn & Chris Pratt.
With 124 of David's offspring joining a class action lawsuit against the sperm bank and the persona known only as "Starbuck", David's dilemma becomes increasingly stressful. With the help of lawyer and life-long buddy Brett (Chris Pratt), David, known to make poor decisions in high-pressure situations, crusades against the sperm bank. Before this, however, the movie leans too much on predictability and emotional manipulation. Hurriedly laying down every plot-thread, the movie constantly deliberates on David's ever-expanding problems. Within the first few minutes, this dramedy beats is lead character to a pulp. Thankfully, in trouble with all manner of good and bad citizens, David's journey contains potential, heart, and relevance. Writer/director Ken Scott gives his original feature a big-budget face-lift. Starbuck, being a sleeper-hit across the globe, highlights suburbia and the first world order's most iconic aspects. Here, family businesses, parenthood, and the American dream are treated with affection and an attention to detail. Sporting a democratic agenda, Scott's direction present's David's pressing situation as a series of mild inconveniences. Certain story-lines are picked up and dropped without warning. Unfortunately, these sub-plots contain dramatic and comedic potential. The mobster plot-strand is a contrived and unnecessary distraction. However, this optimistic dramedy contains several vital messages. Scott's perspective, discussing parenthood and responsibility, provides a ray of glorious and gleeful sunshine. Despite the pros and cons of children, relationships, and hard work, Scott still delivers a well-crafted and thoughtful farce. In multiple ways, Delivery Man borrows from other beloved big-budget dramedies. Despite its French-Canadian roots, this ode to Knocked Up and About a Boy becomes a light-hearted and impactful narrative.
"This could be the most be the beautiful thing that could ever happened to me. These kids ned someone to look out for them. They need a guardian angel." (David Wosniak (Vince Vaughn), The Delivery Man).
Vaughn & the kids.
Here, unlike the aforementioned dramedies, the lead character starts out as a likeable and engaging presence. Unfortunately, his journey becomes increasingly ridiculous and bombastic up until its sweet denouement. David's questionable antics turn him from a humanistic man-child to a well-meaning stalker. With each baffling twist and turn, the movie steadily loses its dry wit and quaint tone. Despite the overt cheesiness, the dramatic moments elevate this otherwise forgettable remake. Despite the bizarre situation, David's motivations make for Delivery Man's most touching sequences. David, taking care of a young Down syndrome sufferer, becomes a good samaritan. These wordless scenes lend heart and intelligence to this wacky dramedy. Despite its charming sheen, the hit-and-miss humour restrains it. Vaughn's sarcastic veneer elevates the derivative one-liners and ludicrous slapstick gags. His situation, illustrated by Vaughn's zany facial expressions and enthusiasm, is made whole by Scott's kinetic and enlightening comedic timing. As an improv vs. staged gag Hollywood comedy (like most nowadays), the pithy dialogue far outweighs the repetitive physical hijinks. Vaughn is, yet again, playing himself. Despite his overt charisma and rat-tat-tat delivery, he's embodying yet another spoiled and down-trodden man-child. Learning important life lessons whilst maturing into a responsible individual, Vaughn can play this role in his sleep. Thankfully, the supporting characters save certain scenes. Pratt excels as David's goofy and unprofessional lawyer. His magnetic screen presence, made whole via Parks and Recreation, boosts this sympathetic and engaging foil. Smulders, known for How I Met your Mother and The Avengers, provides an enjoyable performance as David's better half.
Despite the obvious issues, Delivery Man is a well-intentioned and charming holiday hit. Vaughn – despite his poor run of comedies including The Dilemma, The Watch, and The Internship – elevates the conventional material. This remake, though unnecessary, becomes a refreshing and comforting flick out-matching most modern Hollywood comedies.
Verdict: A charming and meaningful dramedy.
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Interview with Two People Director Rob Livings August 11, 2017
All Eyez on Me Review: False Note July 3, 2017
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Q: Integral involving multiple Bessel functions. I am trying to see if there are any known solutions to integrals of the following form, any help would be appreciated:
$$\int_0^\infty xJ_{\nu+1}(ax)J_{\nu}(bx)\sin(cx)dx.$$
I've dug through a few fairly comprehensive tables, but have yet to find anything.

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text:
The stoppage of ITA operations is a 'very serious problem', says minister – ISTOÉ DINHEIRO
The minister of Infrastructure, Tarcísio de Freitas, classified this Monday, 20th, the stoppage of the operations of the airline ITA, of the Itapemirim group, as a "very serious problem", and stated that the focus of the government and the National Agency of Civil Aviation (Anac) for the moment is to accompany the re-accommodation of affected passengers. ITA's entry into the aviation market this year was celebrated within the government, as it symbolized the sector's attempt to expand beyond the triad formed by Gol, Latam and Azul.
At a press conference, Tarcísio replied that the authorization process for the company to act, commanded by Anac, met all the requirements demanded by the agency.
"Anac takes care of itself. There are a number of protocols that need to be met. They need to present manuals, operating rules, constitute a base of operations, leasing contracts, hired servers, crew training, assisted operation. All the steps have been taken", said Tarcísio when asked about the crisis experienced in the sector since the ITA announced the suspension of its operations from the night of Friday, 17th. "It had all the conditions to operate", he said.
See also Covid, "the lockdown for the unvaccinated does not end on February 1"
Also according to the minister, during the certification process, Anac even asked questions due to the judicial reorganization that the group has been facing since 2016. The company was already known for its operation in the transport of passengers by road. Because the CNPJs are different, however, there was no impediment for the group to enter the aviation sector. "The one who answered (questioning by Anac) was the State Public Ministry. There was a difference in the CNPJ, and this CNPJ that was created for the area had all the clearance certificates, fiscal, labor, social security, and from then on obtained an operation certificate", he stated.
According to Tarcísio, during ITA's months of operation, Anac even intervened so that the company did not sell more tickets than its capacity allowed. "At times, when it was thought of selling more tickets, Anac immediately intervened. If you hadn't acted, the problem could have been more serious. The agency acted as it had to do", declared the minister, citing the case of other airlines that had to close down their operations in Brazil, such as, recently, Avianca. "Obviously (in the case of ITA) it draws attention due to the short operating time", said Tarcísio.
See also How Morocco and Israel benefited from the resumption of relations between them?
The minister also stated that the current focus of the government and Anac is to monitor the relocation of injured passengers. According to him, the agency installed a crisis office to monitor the situation. "And we're going to the ITA, press hard, so that it can re-accommodate people as quickly as possible," said Tarcisio, recognizing, in turn, the difficulties in accommodating all passengers on year-end dates, when it's normal have high aircraft occupancy.
"We were extremely sorry because (ITA's entry into the sector) represented hope not only for Brazilians, but for several professionals in the sector. We will monitor it very carefully. Remembering that the responsibility (for re-accommodation) belongs to the company, but there will be firm monitoring", concluded the minister.
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#stoppage #ITA #operations #problem #minister #ISTOÉ #DINHEIRO
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As we work to raise awareness to reduce the stigma and alleviate the suffering of our homeless neighbors, we know that our successes would not be possible without you. The Lucky Duck Foundation wishes you a happy and healthy 2019 and we look forward to continuing to share our luck with the community.
Your ticket for the: Thank you for sharing your luck!


Defeat to England's Alan Norris saw the 25-year-old exit at the second round.
The Boys in Green saw their slim chances of qualifying for the European Championships ended after today's result in Akko.
After defeat to Russia, Ireland women dusted themselves off to beat Kazakhstan in the third-place play-off.
Joe Schmidt's men aren't giving up on the Six Nations just yet.
Jaco Peyper could have yellow carded two French players.
The southern province's head coach took his side's latest defeat heavily.
David Clarke was beaten at his flat in Belfast in 2001.
The Irish province have two defeats in two games in the Champions Cup.
41-year-old Matthew Goddard was attacked at his home on Christmas Eve.
Anthony Foley's side lost out to the in-form Welsh region in Limerick.
It is claimed in a new biography of TK Whitaker that he missed a Budget speech because of this – Haughey's family say the claims are untrue.
The charity Reprieve has urged Tony Blair to intervene in the case.
The United States said it is troubled over the incident, which has heightened tensions with Palestinians.
*WARNING* This story contains a very graphic image that some people may find disturbing.
The 26-year-old was defeated in straight sets by Taipei's James Wang in Melbourne.
The woman is in her late teens and is reported to have been found naked and beaten. A man was arrested in connection with the crime and released without charge yesterday.
The big American bull was no match for the Spanish matador.


Companies often come late to the rebranding process.
Sales may not be up to expectations or growth has slowed. Often, companies tweak their advertising messages or change agencies.
They rarely work on their brand.
85% of branding work does not include a name change.
50% of the time the logo remains unchanged.
If the name and logo—what most marketers consider the foundation of their branding strategy—remain unchanged, what on Earth does the rebranding process entail?
First, it entails discovering what the cause of the slippage in growth or preference really is. You would be surprised how often companies invest in marketing solutions that never address the underlying market space.
So, let's look at rebranding as the science of persuasion it is. After all, the only reason to do it is to persuade prospects to change their minds and prefer whatever it is you are selling. If you embark on this process for any other reason, you are just wasting your money.
Tom Dougherty is CEO and president of StealingShare, a branding company.


Unleash true productivity from the Xerox 8855 with PlotWorks Pro batch print workflow software.
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The 8855 Digital Copying System works to your advantageYou'll save time and money while streamlining your operation, you'll have the latest digital technology at your fingertips, and you'll be making a smart investment in the future.
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And when it comes to speed, the Xerox 8855 consistently outperforms the fastest analog copiers. It accepts hard-copy originals at a rate of 6.3 ips and delivers 7 E-size or 13 D-size copies per minute—up to 36 inches wide—from its four-roll paper supply. As a result, you'll minimize turnaround and deliver bid sets faster than ever before.
The 8855 measures documents as they are scanned and automatically cuts media to match either the input document or the operator-specified size. It selects its paper supply in the proper sizes—even switches rolls as necessary—until the job is completed or the paper supply exhausted, avoiding job interruptions and maximizing uptime.
Fast and easy R/ETraditionally, you may have used one device to reduce or enlarge an original and another, faster device to make copies. Obviously, this is a workaround—a costly, time-consuming operation. Now, with the digital technology and high speed of the 8855, it's no longer necessary. You can reduce or enlarge an original and quickly make as many copies as you need—all in one step.
The 8855 Digital Copying System offers reduction and enlargement from 25% to 400% in .1% increments, with seven presets plus six additional operator-programmable customized settings. With its Auto-zoom feature, when you select the desired output size, the system automatically reduces or enlarges the documents in a set to fit that size.
You can scan originals in metric or non-standard sizes and output standard-size sets automatically. The combination of easy, one-step reduction or enlargement plus the 8855's fast output results in tremendous savings in time and operator effort.
Powerful finishing capabilities reduce labor costsThe 8855's electronic collation helps you keep jobs moving and gives you added flexibility to produce finished jobs—quickly and efficiently.
And you have a choice of finishing options to boost your productivity. An optional folder that accommodates the speed of the printer gives you accurately folded documents. The high-capacity stacker holds up to 500 E-size prints and saves time by eliminating frequent unloading.
Protect your investment by upgrading to add digital printingThe 8855 Digital Copying System gives you high speed and high volume reproduction capabilities plus extraordinary copy quality. And when your needs change, it makes your transition to a networked printing solution cost-effective.
This enables networked printing, as well as scan-to-print and scan-to-file capabilities.
Because it makes wide-format digital printing a one-step process, you'll achieve higher productivity. Printing directly from digital files, you'll no longer have to create a hard-copy master before printing multiple copies. So you'll get first-generation quality from first print to last.


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fulmo.settingsManager = new (function() {
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Batman: The Ultimate Evil is a novel written by Andrew Vachss and published in 1995 by the Warner Aspect imprint of Warner Books.Vachss was an attorney specializing in cases, as well as a crime novelist best known for his series of books featuring the character Burke, a private investigator who also takes on cases.
Ultimate, originally known as Ultimate frisbee, is a non-contact team sport played with a flying disc (frisbee). Ultimate was developed in 1968 by a group of students at Columbia High college in Maplewood, New Jersey.
Get a high-performance laptop computer with incredible power, a stunning display, a thin profile and true versatility. Discover the Microsoft Surface Book i7 and i5.


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By Mugo|2019-02-28T00:35:15+00:00December 12th, 2017|Books|2 Comments
"…He was everywhere. Glowering from the cover of newsweeklies. Swaggering his way through foot-thick government reports. He was a scrawny, big-city teenager with a cheap gun in his hand and nothing but ruthlessness in his heart. There were thousands out there like him."
That is an excerpt from the book Freakonomics by Steven Levitt. It refers to the generation of killers in the 1990's that was plunging the USA into chaos. By then, the rate of teen homicides was on the rise and it was believed, that in the next decade it would rise by 15 percent (in an optimistic scenario) or it would more than double (pessimistic scenario). Criminologists and other similarly learned forecasters predicted the same horrible future. Clinton was worried about this, but it seemed they couldn't come up with any solution.
Then something that no one had expected happened. Crime began to fall. And fall and fall some more. Instead of doubling or rising by 15 percent, teenage homicides fell by 50 percent. By 2000 the murder rate in the USA had dropped to its lowest level in thirty-five years alongside other crimes. People tried to explain the crime drop but all their theories were not true. It was because of a young woman in Dallas named Norma McCovey.
It is said that a butterfly that flaps wings on one continent, may eventually cause a hurricane on another. 20 years earlier Norma had altered the course of events without intending to. She was a poor, uneducated, unskilled, alcoholic, drug-using twenty-one-year-old woman, who had already given up two children for adoption and had now found herself pregnant again in 1970. The state of Texas didn't allow abortion then, but people more powerful than her adopted her case and made her the lead plaintiff in a class-action lawsuit to legalize abortion. Her case eventually made it to the supreme court, and the court ruled in her favor, allowing legalized abortion throughout the rest of the country.
So how did her case, help reducing crime a generation later?
Studies have shown that if a child is born into an adverse family environment, they are more likely than other children to become a criminal. And most women likely to have an abortion in Norma's time were just like her poor, unmarried, teenage mothers: Models of adversity. They were women whose children if born, would eventually end up becoming criminals. They would end up being profiled as "scrawny, big-city teenagers with nothing but ruthlessness in their hearts." Years later, just as these unborn children would have entered their criminal primes, the rate of crime begun to plummet.
So maybe the same thing should be done in Kenya. It has more benefits. Because the way crime is handled nowadays, is by shooting down these teenage criminals. As is evident by the way Hessy Wa Kayole, Hessy wa Dandora na Hessy wa Mathare take them down. (Those are the only Hessies I know.) But whenever one is killed another one will rise up and replace him. And this will be a continuous cycle because children will still be born, in such adverse family environments. We'd better nip the bud in the head by legalizing abortion. We should also not bury our heads in the sand, and ignore the fact that young girls still have abortions through quacks and they often pay dearly for that, with some losing their lives in the process.
What is your view on this issue?
venom March 12, 2018 at 6:15 am	Log in to Reply
taking away life …innocent life.. …
empressswamiii September 4, 2018 at 4:39 pm	Log in to Reply
Okay. Okay.
This read felt like wearing brand new clear glasses but you know sometimes the rosy tainted ones are better.
Crime is no good, but is life ever incidental?


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Now displaying: Category: Space and Time
58: Trans-Dimensional Slices 0
Dimensions.
Reflecting on dimensions has a long history in popular culture, from the geometrically minded satirical novella Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions by Edwin A. Abbott to the 1937 film The Fourth Dimension by director Jean Painleve. But how is the relationship between different dimensions explored in the Star Trek universe? From a plane of two-dimensional beings in the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "The Loss," to higher-dimensional beings like members of the Q continuum with their ability to pop in and out of three-dimensional space at will, Star Trek is replete with examples of dimensional interplay.
In this episode of Meta Treks, hosts Mike Morrison and Zachary Fruhling are joined by Trek.fm Patreon manager and host of Melodic Treks and Warp Five, Brandon-Shea Mutala, to discuss the physics, the philosophy, and the geometry of dimensions in the Star Trek universe.
Introducing Brandon-Shea Mutala and Patreon (00:01:58)
Flatland and The Fourth Dimension (00:15:26)
Time as a Dimension vs. Higher Spatial Dimensions (00:18:46)
Lower-Dimensional and Higher-Dimensional Beings (00:21:01)
Bending Space - Warp Drive and Wormholes (00:30:28)
Higher-Dimensions and Omniscience (00:43:20)
Slices of Cheese - Alternate Three-Dimensional Realms (00:45:51)
Four-Dimensionalism and Wormhole Aliens (00:50:23)
The Motion Picture and Visualizing Dimensional Slices (00:57:28)
Fluidic Space - A Different Kind of Cheese (00:59:07)
Captain Proton and The Fifth Dimension (01:03:12)
Dimensions in Theoretical Physics - String Theory (01:04:46)
The Paranormal and Pseudoscience (01:08:26)
From Theoretical Physics to Experimental Physics (01:12:14)
Dimensions, Transporters, and Personal Identity (01:14:06)
The Mathematics of Higher Dimensions (01:16:57)
Brandon-Shea Mutala
Mike Morrison (Editor) Zachary Fruhling (Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Patrick Devlin (Associate Producer) Kay Shaw (Associate Producer) Norman Lao (Associate Producer) Kit Loffstadt (Associate Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager)
54: The Nenebek Paradox 0
Paradoxes of Motion.
From the ancient Greek philosopher Zeno of Elea to the 20th century physicist Albert Einstein, philosophers and scientists for thousands of years have been preoccupied with attempting to understand the seemingly paradoxical nature of motion. In this episode of Meta Treks, hosts Mike Morrison and Zachary Fruhling discuss three of the most famous paradoxes of motion: Zeno's Arrow Paradox, Zeno's Dichotomy Paradox, and the Twin Paradox from Einstein's Special Theory of Relativity. Together Mike and Zachary recount their Star Trek themed interpretation of these classic paradoxes of motion: The Photon Torpedo Paradox, the Nenebek Paradox, and the Delaney Sisters Paradox.
Initial Thoughts and Defining "Paradox" (00:02:38)
Zeno's Arrow Paradox or The Photon Torpedo Paradox (00:06:16)
Zeno's Dichotomy Paradox or The Nenebek Paradox (00:19:57)
Einstein's Twin Paradox or The Delaney Sisters Paradox (00:28:25)
Recap and Final Thoughts (00:45:28)
Mike Morrison (Editor) Zachary Fruhling (Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Ken Tripp (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Patrick Devlin (Associate Producer) Kay Shaw (Associate Producer) Norman Lao (Associate Producer) Richard Marquez (Production Manager) Brandon-Shea Mutala (Patreon Manager)
33: All Threes 0
"Cause and Effect" and the Metaphysics of Time.
In this 33rd episode of Meta Treks, "All Threes," hosts Zachary Fruhling and Mike Morrison use the TNG episode "Cause and Effect" as the starting point for a discussion on the physics and the metaphysics of time. Zachary and Mike consider the core philosophical questions about the nature of time, such as ontology (whether the past and the future really exist), duration (why time moves at the rate it does), movement (whether there is a flow of time or whether events are fixed in time), linear time versus branching time, subjective time versus objective time, reconciling relativistic physics of time with quantum physics of time, and whether time is "out there" or imposed on reality by the mind.
Initial Thoughts on "Cause and Effect" (00:04:39)
Spacetime - Time is Malleable (00:14:32)
The Physics of Time and the Metaphysics of Time (00:16:06)
Four Dimensionalism - Do the Present and Future Exist? (00:24:42)
Circumventing Einstein - Warp Drive and Relativity (00:26:22)
Time and Ontology - The Past, the Present, and the Future (00:36:24)
Movement through Time (00:38:54)
Duration - The Arbitrariness of the Rate of Time (00:44:13)
Quantum Entanglement and Simultaneity (00:49:03)
The Direction of Time - Why Does Time Flow Forward But Not Backward? (00:55:17)
The Branching Theory of Time (00:58:39)
Subjective Time vs. Objective Time (01:08:02)
Immanuel Kant - The Mind Structures Experience in Time and Space (01:11:17)
Zachary Fruhling and Mike Morrison
Mike Morrison (Editor and Producer) Norman C. Lao (Executive Producer) C Bryan Jones (Executive Producer) Matthew Rushing (Executive Producer) Charlynn Schmiedt (Executive Producer) Patrick Devlin (Associate Producer) Kay Elizabeth Janeway (Associate Producer) Will Nguyen (Content Manager) Richard Marquez (Production Manager)
16: All the Bubbles 0
Alternate Realities vs. Alternate Timelines.
In this episode of Meta Treks: A Star Trek Philosophy Podcast, hosts Mike Morrison and Zachary Fruhling have a followup discussion on the distinction between an "alternate reality" and an "alternate timeline" in response to a challenge by Norman Lao and Jeffrey Harlan on their recent episode of Standard Orbit (Standard Orbit 115: "Wibby Wobbly Primey Wimey").
Mike and Zachary provide a philosophical analysis of different senses of the terms "alternate reality" and "alternate timeline," while also exploring and contrasting key examples of these senses in Star Trek. Examples covered in this episode of Meta Treks include the prime timeline vs. the Abramsverse timeline, the episodes "Yesterday's Enterprise" and "Parallels" from Star Trek: The Next Generation, and the Mirror Universe as seen in The Original Series, Deep Space Nine, and Enterprise.
Here is the link to the related episode, Standard Orbit 115 ("Wibbly Wobbly Primey Wimey"): http://trek.fm/standard-orbit/115
Related Episodes of Meta Treks (00:05:18)
Bryan Fuller and Star Trek 2017 (00:07:54)
Initial Thoughts - Alternate Reality vs. Alternate Timeline (00:10:33)
Two Senses of "Alternate Reality" (00:12:25)
Personal Identity and Alternate Realities (00:19:01)
Universe or Multiverse? (00:25:27)
Yesterday's Enterprise (00:26:57)
Two Senses of "Alternate Timeline" (00:28:36)
Contrasting "Yesterday's Enterprise" with Star Trek 2009 (00:32:34)
Reconciling "Alternate Reality" and "Alternate "Timeline" - A Hybrid Approach (00:34:52)
Four-Dimensionalism and Alternate Timelines (00:38:53)
Does a Common Origin Point Settle the Issue? (00:43:45)
The Origin of the Mirror Universe (00:47:46)
How to Analyze Examples in Star Trek - What Questions to Ask (00:51:33)


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Behind the counter: Summer drinks at Daylesford
24 May 2022, 07:58 AM
We catch up with Daylesford's Rachael Winter, head of food buying and Jemma Coombe, head of food product development, to find out what they're stocking for the warmer months ahead
We have a wide variety of drinks available in our farm shops, on our website and via Ocado. In summer, the best-selling drinks in our range include refreshing craft beers, rosé, rosé frizzante and Prosecco, which are ideal for barbecues and enjoying al fresco.
Summer is the season of picnics and festivals, so drinks in convenient formats are popular such as our canned sparkling wines and ready-to-pour, pre-portioned cocktails. Canned wine was not previously considered a "luxury" drink but we were able to capture the quality of our ever-popular Léoube rosé in cans, which helped elevate its appeal.
Our range also has plenty of thirst-quenching low- and no- alcohol options that are great for hot weather, including sparkling soft drinks, gut-friendly kombuchas, as well as cold-pressed juices, smoothies and shots. We recently launched cold-pressed, fresh organic orange and apple juices in large 750ml bottles which are delicious as mixers or on their own.
We are launching a new range of organic tonic waters – the first organic tonic waters to be made in the UK – along with Organic Fig Leaf Gin and Organic Hop Vodka in April 2022, ready for summer.
What value does seasonality hold for Daylesford, and how is that represented in its drinks range?
At Daylesford seasonality is the core of our offering, from our fresh fruit & vegetables, cheese, patisserie, butcher's and fish counters and café menus. While many of the drinks in our range are available year-round, we do highlight seasonal preferences such as refreshing rosé and sparkling elderflower in the summer, hearty reds in autumn/winter, and immunity-boosting and restorative juices in January.
How about drinks with organic credentials - what role do they play for Daylesford and in the industry?
The majority of Daylesford branded products are certified organic and this includes our drinks. We go to great lengths to maintain organic credentials across our ranges – for example when we were developing our new range of tonic waters, which launch in April 2022, we worked with our supplier to develop a unique recipe using dandelion extract instead of traditional quinine. This innovation kept the drinks organic while achieving the same bitter flavour notes and mouthfeel you would expect in a quality tonic water.
Our recently launched cold-pressed organic fresh orange and apple juices in 750ml bottles were another notable new product development, as it is difficult to find organic juices in a larger size.
And health credentials?
We have an in-house nutritionist with whom we work closely to develop many of our ranges, such as our nutrient-packed cold-pressed fruit and vegetable juices. We recently launched three new juice shots, which were recommended as part of our nutritionist-approved regenerative meal plans for Glow, Gut Balance and Mood & Mind.
Well-being is always a hot topic at Daylesford and we have a number of drinks with strong health credentials. For example, our award-winning kefir is good for gut health and is made in our own Creamery on the farm. Our kombuchas are an excellent non-alcoholic alternative to cider, with a similar flavour profile but with the added benefits for the microbiome and gut health. Our range of botanical teas are packed with health-boosting antioxidants.
Are there any summer-relevant drinks trends you've spotted? Where are the opportunities?
Canned wines and cocktails are a top summer trend for good reason: they're lightweight, pre-portioned, convenient, easily chilled and taste great – perfect for taking to the beach, picnics or for barbecues.


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Tag Archive chadwell supply
How to Buy a Water Bottle for $10: How to Get Rid of Your Waterbottle
September 20, 2021 Comments Off on How to Buy a Water Bottle for $10: How to Get Rid of Your Waterbottle	By admin
This article first appeared on National Geographic magazine.
About the author:Sandy Wiens is a freelance writer and editor with experience writing about food, culture, and nature for the Associated Press.
air supply, chadwell supply, hd supply solutions, medical supplies online, quill office supplies
New Zealanders are flocking to the US to buy products from Canada
August 10, 2021 Comments Off on New Zealanders are flocking to the US to buy products from Canada	By admin
New Zealand has added to the list of countries looking to boost its exports to the United States, with the US Agriculture Department announcing it is sending a shipment of chad and camping supplies to Canada.
Agriculture Minister Gerry Brownlee said the shipment would be used to buy farm supplies.
"We want to continue to encourage exports to Canada as well as the United Kingdom and Australia," he said.
But Mr Brownlee's comments have raised questions about whether the US is helping to boost exports to Australia or China.
The US Commerce Department has said it is considering bringing in Canadian grain and hay from the US as part of its supply chain.
In March, the US announced it would boost exports of corn and soybeans, with Canada expected to follow suit.
Australia is also a major supplier of beef, pork and eggs to the world.
However, Mr Brownley said Australia would not be buying Canadian products from the United State.
There is also the question of the future of beef imports.
According to Agriculture Minister Peter Dunne, the beef sector is one of the largest export markets in the world, with beef exports accounting for more than half of all imports.
But he said in recent months there has been a shift in the supply chains of major beef producers, and that this had been caused by the introduction of import tariffs.
It is unclear whether the beef imports from the UK and US will be processed in the same way.
China has been expanding its own beef export market and has recently announced a deal to buy up to 10 per cent of US beef imports, which could help it boost its domestic production.
At the same time, there is a growing risk that Chinese imports of Canadian beef will fall off.
ABC/ReutersTopics:economics-and-finance,food-and/or-cooking,foreign-affairs,foodprocessing,chinas-republic-of,united-statesFirst posted May 11, 2020 16:48:33
atlanta barber supply, camping supplies, chadwell supply, farm supply, htg supply


When a property claim shuts down a business, resuming normal business operations is a key priority. While most businesses purchase coverage for Business Interruption, many underestimate the limit needed until operations can be fully resumed.
Profits you would have earned, based on your financial records, had your property not been damaged by the covered disaster.
Operating expenses, such as electricity, that may occur even if the main business activities are temporarily stalled.
Contact one of our professionals today for more information.


Does Your IT Company Think Strategically?
IT companies are a dime a dozen these days. Almost all of these companies have very competent and highly trained IT consultants, but they may not be the right choice for your business model.
Some IT companies may not be the right ones to source out to for one very critical reason. They don't really take the time to understand your business, its processes and the work flow. IT companies are often set up to think solely about IT and do not generally perform any strategic thinking about your company.
To really make your business stand out from the crowd and surge ahead of your competitors, you need an IT consultant that also takes the time to learn about your business in detail.
An IT company which does take the time to analyze your business and your work flow processes can design systems and processes that help improve the workflow and which are more suitable to your business.
If you really want to improve your business, take the time to ask the IT companies you select how and what they can do to better streamline your work, reduce overhead and improve how you do business.
Almost any IT company can give you solutions that will help improve how you do business, but are they really the right solutions? A strategic thinking IT consultant will take the time to sit down with you and your all your relevant staff and ask a lot of questions to thoroughly become familiar with your business before they offer solutions.
And more importantly, you don't want an IT company that just comes in with a quick fix and leaves. You need to think of your IT company as your long term business partner and want to ensure they will be there for the long haul. A strategic thinking IT company keeps in regular contact with you and performs regular evaluations of your processes on an ongoing basis.
Let ComputerHelpLA show you how our approach can use our business strategic thinking to improve the overall effectiveness of your business.
Call us today at (310) 893-0878 or email us at info@computerhelpla.com and let us partner together.


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I wanted to look like a cute girl in a little tank top, but my DD makes everything look out of place, it's so annoying.
SHE saw so many girls looking cute in Lululemon t-shirts.
But when Luna tried the trend herself, she was more than disappointed with the results.
Luna wanted to look like a cute girl in a little tank top.1 credit
Seeing so many other women looking cute in Lululemon tops.1 credit
But she soon realized that her DD made everything she wears look out of place.1 credit
"Seeing how cute girls look in Lulu align T-shirts" she wrote images of girls in videos on TikTok.
Luna then added, "I'm with DD."
And in the caption, she wrote that because of the large bust, she "looks out of place in everything that you wear."
She wasn't the only one facing the same issue, as others took to the comment section to acknowledge that they might indeed be relevant to her struggles.
"GIRL ME TOO AND I CLOSE BUT THEY ARE NOT," wrote one of them.
To which Luna replied, "THIS IS WHAT I'M SAYING."
"I have never seen anything more related," added another.
"I'm in every singlet I wear," someone else commented.
"I know the feeling," wrote another, accompanying the crying emoji.
While someone else complained, "My mom doesn't let me wear them because they're 'too revealing', but everyone else doesn't."
"SAAAMMMMMMEEEEEEEE," wrote another.
Someone added: "The signature is so real."


text:
package com.mkyong.stock;

import java.util.Date;
import javax.persistence.Column;
import javax.persistence.Entity;
import javax.persistence.FetchType;
import javax.persistence.GeneratedValue;
import static javax.persistence.GenerationType.IDENTITY;
import javax.persistence.Id;
import javax.persistence.JoinColumn;
import javax.persistence.ManyToOne;
import javax.persistence.Table;
import javax.persistence.Temporal;
import javax.persistence.TemporalType;

@SuppressWarnings("serial")
@Entity
@Table(name = "stock_daily_record", schema = "one_to_many")
public class StockDailyRecord implements java.io.Serializable {

	@Id
	@GeneratedValue(strategy = IDENTITY)
	@Column(name = "RECORD_ID", unique = true, nullable = false)
	private Integer recordId;

	@ManyToOne(fetch = FetchType.LAZY)
	@JoinColumn(name = "STOCK_ID", nullable = false)
	private Stock stock;

	@Column(name = "PRICE_OPEN", precision = 6)
	private Float priceOpen;

	@Column(name = "PRICE_CLOSE", precision = 6)
	private Float priceClose;

	@Column(name = "PRICE_CHANGE", precision = 6)
	private Float priceChange;

	@Column(name = "VOLUME")
	private Long volume;

	@Temporal(TemporalType.DATE)
	private Date date;

	public Integer getRecordId() {
		return this.recordId;
	}

	public void setRecordId(Integer recordId) {
		this.recordId = recordId;
	}

	public Stock getStock() {
		return this.stock;
	}

	public void setStock(Stock stock) {
		this.stock = stock;
	}

	public Float getPriceOpen() {
		return this.priceOpen;
	}

	public void setPriceOpen(Float priceOpen) {
		this.priceOpen = priceOpen;
	}

	public Float getPriceClose() {
		return this.priceClose;
	}

	public void setPriceClose(Float priceClose) {
		this.priceClose = priceClose;
	}

	public Float getPriceChange() {
		return this.priceChange;
	}

	public void setPriceChange(Float priceChange) {
		this.priceChange = priceChange;
	}

	public Long getVolume() {
		return this.volume;
	}

	public void setVolume(Long volume) {
		this.volume = volume;
	}

	public Date getDate() {
		return this.date;
	}

	public void setDate(Date date) {
		this.date = date;
	}

}


text:
An Introduction to Beijing, China
Asia China Beijing
Arriving, Getting Around, Communication Problems, and Staying Safe
Greg Rodgers
Greg Rodgers is a freelance writer and photographer from Kentucky. He's been covering all things Asia for TripSavvy since 2010.
Luis Castaneda Inc./Getty Images
Beijing is the capital of the most populated country in the world; that alone should be an indication of the madness waiting for you just outside of the airport doors! But don't despair: a visit to Beijing is an unforgettable experience and you'll rarely have a dull moment.
Arriving in Beijing
Most international flights arrive at the enormous Beijing International Capital Airport (airport code: PEK). After arriving, you'll have to pass through immigration — you need an existing visa for China in your passport — and then you'll want to use an ATM to get money for transportation outside.
You can use the train system to reach Beijing, although after a long flight, grabbing a taxi directly to your hotel is an easier option. Use the official taxi stand at the ground level of the airport to avoid the numerous taxi scams; many unregulated taxis have modified meters that will charge you more.
Tip: Many taxi drivers do not speak very much English. Having the name of your hotel or address in Chinese characters to show a driver is a big help.
Getting Around in Beijing
Beijing has all of the usual big-city transportation options available: buses, taxis, and a subway. The subway is extensive, perpetually crowded, and the cheapest way to get around the city. The last trains usually run around 10:30 p.m. Pre-paid cards, offered in many subway stations, are a big convenience for travelers who will be moving around the city often; they even come with discounts on buses.
With very congested traffic conditions, getting around on foot is a good option, particularly if your hotel is centrally located. You'll certainly pass lots of interesting, authentic sights just while walking through the city.
Tip: Take a business card from your hotel with you. In case you get lost — easy to do in Beijing — you can show it to get directions.
What to Do in Beijing
At least a day or two could be spent strolling around one of the world's largest concrete squares, Tiananmen Square. After visiting the attractions and doing a few people watching, you'll be better in tune with the unique vibe in Beijing. Tiananmen Square is the concrete heart of China, and with the Forbidden City. numerous museums, and the Chairman Mao Mausoleum, there is plenty to do within walking distance.
No trip to China is complete without a visit to a section of the Great Wall. The Badaling section of the wall is the easiest to access from Beijing, however, that means you'll have to contend with terrible crowds and rampant restoration. If time allows, opt to visit the Simatai or Jinshanling sections of the Great Wall instead.
Tip: If you decide to go with a tour, purchase your tickets to the Great Wall from your hotel or a reliable source. Some bus trips spend more time at tourist traps along the way rather than at the wall!
Communicating in China
While signs and menus found around tourist areas are in English, don't expect that the average resident will understand English — many don't. Friendly students seeking to practice English may offer to help you with transactions such as buying tickets. For the most part, taxi drivers will understand very little English, perhaps not even the word 'airport.' Have your reception desk write addresses for you in Chinese on a piece of paper to show drivers.
With scores of dialects, Chinese people from different regions even experience difficulty communicating. To avoid misunderstandings when negotiating prices, a simple system of finger counting is used. The numbers above five are not just a matter of counting fingers!
Staying Safe While in Beijing
Crime: Despite the crowded conditions, Beijing is actually quite a safe city and has a lot less violent crime than much smaller American cities. Petty theft is sometimes a problem; be vigilant with belongings on crowded public transportation. Some of the remote suburbs of Beijing are far less safe than the center of the city.
Traffic: Crossing the street in Beijing is perhaps one of the most dangerous things to do in China. Don't assume that traffic signals work, or if they do work, that they'll be obeyed by drivers. Always cross at designated crosswalks and try to walk with a mob of locals rather than crossing alone.
Air Pollution: Beijing was literally the most polluted city in the world until New Delhi, India, seized the title in 2014. The air quality is often apocalyptic and is exasperated by summer humidity. Many locals wear a mask when walking outside; Travelers with respiratory issues should consider doing the same.
Scams: While muggings are incredibly rare, locals have worked out ways to rob tourists more subtly. Scams that target travelers are prevalent throughout China. If someone approaches you on the street to change money, play a game, or sit in a tea ceremony, a scam is probably unfolding!
See more about staying safe while in Asia.
Read about some common scams in Asia to avoid.
Beijing Guide: Planning Your Trip
A Complete Guide to Visiting the Great Wall of China
A Guide to Airports in Beijing: PEK and PKX
The Best Time to Visit Beijing, China
Getting Around Beijing: Guide to Public Transportation
The 12 Best Day Trips from Beijing
The 8 Best Beijing Tours of 2020
The 8 Best Great Wall of China Tours of 2020
A Guide to Beijing's Top 10 Neighborhoods
What You Need to Know Before You Visit Guangzhou
Getting Around Buenos Aires: Guide to Public Transportation
Getting Around Seoul: Guide to Public Transportation
See the Top 19 Things to Do While in Beijing
How to Drive in Asia: What You Need to Know
The Weather and Climate in Beijing
What to Know About Traveling in China During Chinese New Year


text:
Ed Sheeran, Justin Bieber and Other Stars Who Were M.I.A. at the 2018 Grammys
Find out which stars didn't head to New York City for the 60th Annual Grammy Awards
By Meg Swertlow Jan 29, 2018 1:31 AMTags
Justin BieberEd Sheeran2018 Grammys
It's music biggest night, which usually means music's biggest stars are out in full force, but this year not all of the top music makers were at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards at Madison Square Garden on Sunday night.
First off, British singer Ed Sheeran, who recently got engaged, was missing in action and did not accept his Grammy for his win for Best Pop Solo Performance for "Shape of You." Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee turned up to perform their chart-topping tune "Despacito," but Justin Bieber was nowhere to be found for the performance.
But those two popstars weren't the only superstar singers who dipped out, ditched, didn't show or didn't go to the glittering awards show hosted for a second time by James Corden.
Find out who else missed the 2018 Grammy Awards...
2018 Grammys Red Carpet Fashion
Halsey had a weekend away from the spotlight and in the woods.
The "Bad at Love" singer posted a photo of herself on a couch with slew of books and wrote, "Spending Grammy weekend at a cabin in the woods but still supporting #TimesUP with my white roses :) Love seeing everyone on the carpet with theirs. Good luck to all my amazingly talented friends who are nominated this year!"
A post shared by Justin Timberlake (@justintimberlake)
Justin Timberlake, who is preparing for his Super Bowl performance next weekend, didn't make the star-studded event but did give huge shout out to his "Holy Grail" collaborator, Jay-Z.
The "Mirrors" singer shared a quote from Jay at Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy party, in which Bey's main man said, "In this industry, for the things we uphold and we love and we treasure and we respect, we have to get involved. I stand up here on the shoulders of all the beautiful people who inspired me. So like all of the people that came before us, it is our duty to make sure that not only are we making the greatest art, we uphold and support each other and the things that are super real."
Timberlake added that he was, "So inspired by Jay's words from last night's pre-Grammy party (Congrats HOV!!) and it reminded me of times like this. I wish I could be there to support all of the artists on what will undoubtedly be a special night tonight. Sending love to the nominees, performers and everyone there! #Grammys."
A post shared by John Mayer 💎 (@johnmayer)
Right before the Grammys kicked off, John Mayer posted a photo from what appears to be the office of the animated show Cartoon Network's Rick and Morty, along with the caption, "Office Hours."


Yes we have decided to launch a new campaign. But what products do we offer? How can we be different than every other heated apparel company? Well first of we are the only one that use Far Infrared heat in all our apparel. What product can we offer that is different and so much better than anyone in the market?
1. Heated Glove Liner - Made from a stretch lycra fabric this heated glove liner fits snug and designed to be worn under any outer layer glove. Heat will depend on the outer layer. But compared to our heated glove on offer the glove liner under a O'Neill winter glove provides the most heat. Opens up a whole new world of applications. You can wear this glove under a construction glove, ski glove, snowboard mitt, horse riding glove, leather glove, motorcycle glove and just about any glove that offers some sort of insulation.
2. Heated Sock Liner - The heated sock liner will be the world's first heated sock with removable heating pads. The Infrared heat is fantastic but you are also able to remove the heating pads and wash the sock as you would a normal sock. The heating pads are located at the top and bottom of the sock liner. The battery goes in a pouch that can be clipped on to a strap or the top of your boot.
3. Heated Jacket/Vest Liner - We decided to improve our vest liner. Previously we used to have a removable fleece liner with a outer Stretch Lycra shell. Now we have just the Lycra layer with the fleece pockets that hold the heating pads sewn into the lycra. So essentially the thinnest heated liner in the world. For the same price we decided to offer either the vest or the jacket liner. The only difference is we add sleeves to the jacket liner. 4 heating zones stay the same. We also decided to offer 2 sets of smaller batteries. The biggest complaint we have had in the past is the size of the battery. To use a 5000 or 6000 mAh battery the size does get on the bulkier side so we are offering 2 sets of 3000 mAh batteries. These batteries are less than an inch in thickness and weight less than .2 lbs or 90 grams each.
We are working creating the videos and images for now and target date to launch is March 1st. The revised date is now April 1st for the launch. Production of videos has taken longer than expected. This should not affect our delivery dates.
We have several members of our patrol using the glove liners and vests, keep us warm out on the slopes. A GOOD heated sock liner would make things perfect.
Thanks for your kind words Jan. The motorcycle riders we have sold generation I vests to absolutely love our product. Several of them have other brand name metal wired heating products and have not gone back to them once they have tried our Far Infrared heated liners. There really is no comparison. We look forward to serving the motorcycle community with quality products.


How do prices differ between private tours and small-group tours?
Private tours are priced according to the length (number of hours) of the tour whereas Small Group tours are charged on a per-person basis and include entrance fees to museums and other sites visited during the tour.
Will I need to confirm my tour once I arrive?
Once we confirm your tour via e-mail, you do not need to call or reconfirm unless you are cancelling or modifying your tour. Please be sure to arrive at the meeting point on time. Details regarding meeting points and times will be indicated on your confirmation email.
What is the minimum/maximum number of participants for small-group and private tours?
We promise 12 participants or fewer on our small group tours and no minimum or maximum number for private tours.
May I show up at the meeting point without an advance booking? If advance booking is required, how far in advance should I book?
In order to offer you the best possible service, we require you to book in advance. In this way we can ensure our best guides and often sold-out Skip the Line entrance tickets will be available for you. In order to guarantee reservations for the tours, dates and times you prefer, we suggest you book at least two weeks in advance. However, if you are pressed for time and planning last minute, we will do our best to accommodate your itinerary on short notice. If it's possible, we can make it happen!
Are prices reduced for children?
Vatican Museum tickets are reduced for children aged 6 to 18; children 5 and under enter the Museum for free. During peak season, there are no discounts for children for the Early Morning Vatican Tour. In general, children between 6-16 get a discount on the entrance fees, and children younger than 6 get entrance tickets for free. Contact us directly about pricing.
Can you arrive pick-up service at my hotel?
Pick-up in your hotel is available for private tours only. You can choose between hotel pick up or our meeting point.
Is it secure for me to pay online?
Our website is secure for payments and there should not be any issues paying online. You are also welcome to call or email us your payment info for extra precautions.
Is there a dress code for entering the churches featured in the tours? And if so, what is it?
All religious sites in Italy forbid shorts, bare shoulders or skirts above the knee. We advise you follow this mandate for all other churches.
I completed a reservation request / I sent an inquiry to info@secretsitaly.com, but have not yet received a confirmation or response. How do I reach your office?


A temporary Residential Street Closure Permit is required and must be filed 20 days prior to the scheduled temporary closure.
The permit authorizes closing a street, it does not authorize any activity otherwise prohibited by law. The Police Department will take appropriate action in the event of any disturbance, and may revoke the permit at any time.
All debris must be removed immediately after the event.
A petition requesting approval of the event must be signed by all residents on the street.
Streets need to remain accessible to emergency equipment at all times.
Tables, chairs and other large items are restricted to the sidewalk.
Participation is only for neighborhood residents and friends.
There shall be no selling of food or beverages.
As a condition to issuance of a permit, a Certificate of Insurance will be required. In addition to the permit fee, a refundable deposit (to meet any costs related to closing the street) may be required once the application is approved. The deposit shall not exceed $1,000.