Film of the Week: Fantastic Beasts – The Crimes of Grindelwald

This film only proves the wizarding world is not going away any time soon. It also has a major continuity error with Minerva Mcgonagall – working at Hogwarts during a time she shouldn’t have been born yet. It also shows Dumbledore working as the Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, when in the main books he’s known as the Transfiguration teacher, however this film does make a nod toward how he transitioned from one post to another before ascending to what we all know him as the Headmaster of Hogwarts.

I’m glad we saw Grindelwald at the height of his powers, showing how effortlessly it is to defend himself from any attack. Whilst Voldemort is known as the greatest dark wizard of all time, incredibly powerful from child to the final battle with Harry, Grindelwald certainly rivals his power. We see, more visually, Grindelwald’s power, especially the blue Fiend Fire, which if not defeated would have spread and destroyed Paris.

Whilst briefly covering the matter because we already know of the information, we see Dumbledore’s past relationship with Grindelwald, and how they once made a promise – a blood pact – never to fight each other, which many believe is the reason for Ariana’s demise when Grindelwald, Dumbledore, and Aberforth fought in their house.

But, the most shocking exploration of a character comes at the very end, a spoiler too grand to reveal but is probably going to be the centre point in the third film. Never mentioned before this film, a lot of explaining needs to be done to make sure us fans are satisfied with the sudden addition to what was previously believed a closed story – no more information could be revealed.

At 2hrs and 15 minutes, Crimes of Grindelwald doesn’t have as much action as the first film, instead opting for more exposition, which is a risky manoeuvre as it’s commonly seen as boring if not done correctly. Crimes of Grindelwald uses its exposition to not only explain some answers to questions left open from the first, but set up more opportunities for the third, leading to the ultimate battle between Grindelwald and Dumbledore, a battle that is mentioned on Dumbledore’s chocolate frog card, which is of itself an achievement he’s quite proud of. The exposition in this film keeps you gripped, because there really is a lot in each scene where exposition is featured.

I wouldn’t say it’s among my favourite Wizarding World movies. Whilst exposition is this film’s strong point, unfortunately it is also it’s weakness. I was gripped to what was being said, and I enjoyed the revelations and set-ups, but that’s all this film was about; wrapping up what the previous film didn’t and setting up a potential sequel. As a true standalone sequel within a series of films, unfortunately this isn’t, but one that has to be watched to keep up to date, but not necessary the one film that’ll appear at the top of people’s favourites list.

Thanks for reading

Antony Hudson

(TonyHadNouns)

Mum's Monday: The Green Green Grass, Series 1 to 4

WARNING SPOILERS FOR THE ENTIRE SERIES

The Green Green Grass is a spin off and written by the writers of ‘Only Fools and Horses’. The first episode is a good strong solid start to the series, and in-keeping with the ‘Only Fools and Horses’ nature of it. So the Boyce family have arrived at ‘Winterdown Farm’, Boycie (John Challis) Marlene (Sue Holderness) and their son Tyler (Jack Doolan).

The second episode and the Boyce family are settling in. it turns out ‘Winterdown Farm’ is a farm with staff. We first met the very definite ‘Farm Manager’ Elgin Sparrowhawk (David Ross) ‘Farm Manager’ in the first episode and now there is the ‘Herdsman/Stockman’ Bryan (Ivan Kaye) and the ‘Ploughman’ Jed (Peter Heppelthwaite). Boycie after being charmed and realising there is an advantage to be had, running the farm agrees to run their new place as a farm, and so the comic staff meeting begins. Last of all we meet the, what can only be described loosely as ‘The housekeeper’ Mrs Cakeworthy (Ella Kenion), my favourite character due to her talents and her gift, who has also been there years. It is now good to see Elgin does know a bit about farming, farmer Boyce is getting a bull, at a price in more ways than one though.

The next episode, it is funny to hear Marlene’s reaction to running a farm, and Marlene is going to be a ‘Farmers wife’. Which includes sadly cooking and buying Farmer Boyce a coat and the bull a dog toy. All this making for some very funny scenes. And now we meet the Boyce’s neighbour Llewellyn (Alan David), it seems the blackberries are not on Farmer Boyce’s land. It is good to see that the script includes the realism of a woman changing her mind. Now ‘Rocky’ the bull has gone missing and with four points on the compass and four people searching, it should be easy, should, to find and get ‘Rocky’ back. It isn’t, but it is amusing to watch, although not fun for Farmer Boyce.

The next episode it is fun to see Farmer Boyce is still getting to grips with farming. A really amusing part, which is cleverly all in the context of the situation, who knew there are ‘Mucky’ magazines out there for bulls? I didn’t, which is what makes the scene so brilliant. There is a great idea for a new boat race mentioned in this episode, call it ‘The Spanish Armada’. Now thank goodness for electronic communication, when you are on the run and a family to consider. There is another clever and really funny scene, only to get funnier still when you find out who Elgin is on the phone to. The Boyce family has grown, as they now have a herd of cows, just a few and more than the six Marlene wanted. Gay rights have now hit the Boyce family, but all is not lost, Farmer Boyce can now get revenge on Llewellyn.

The next episode, the continuity seems to be out from the last episode, Rocky the bull is still gay, and this still makes for some amusing scenes. It doesn’t take much to set Bryan of on one of his rants. The similarity between E as in exam results and E numbers in a drink is brilliant. Also when people say ‘Don’t try this at home’ I can see why now and Marlene should have taken notice, much to Aubrey Boyce (Yes that is Farmer Boyce’s first name, he is mostly embarrassed by it so doesn’t use it until he chooses to) discomfort. When is a free ticket not a free ticket? When you have to pay rail fare and a hotel stay, but it is heart-warming to see Farmer Boyce ask Jed to do Marlene a favour. Tyler now likes his new school and this episode highlights that the teachers are getting younger. The recording Jed does for Marlene to listen to is so funny but for Marlene it is a marvellous outcome.

The next episode Marlene thinks a potion could be a quick fix, also there is nothing better than a routine ‘Turning right every Thursday’, is very well known by the locals. It is good to see that Tyler no longer has interest in his English teacher, so you could say ‘crisis adverted’, until farmer Boyce goes to visit Rhian (Karen Paullada) AKA said English teacher. Marlene’s quick fix potion, it turns out it is not for the male specious, that one is elsewhere, the two potions are not the same, this is amusing to find out. there is a part that is a bit clichéd a ‘Punch up at an anger management class’. Continuing on it is good to see there is still a connection between Boycie and Marlene.      

The next episode, it seems greed has taken over ‘Winterdown Farm’, it also seems Brussels has moved to France, but that is the least of Farmer Boyce’s worries. I will not be taking advice from this episode, on how to get over a lack of sleep problem, shooting yourself is a bit extreme. A potion works better and faster, but there are side effects. It is lovely to see Elgin, Bryan and Jed had Farmer Boyce’s back and that is a big duck Llewellyn. Also that is strong glue as we see three months later. Shame Tyler’s guitar skills haven’t improved, after the thoughtfulness of Boycie buying him it. As a lead guitarist having one helps a bit.

The next episode, Farmer Boyce has his sights on being the new mayor and Simon (Ian Boner) has his sights on Mrs Boyce. However, sadly, in this episode Bryan seems to be suffering the most. Despite all the suffering it all still makes for another amusing episode.

The next episode, it looks like Farmer Boyce has a decision to make, but he has to make the right one otherwise he could be in for some worrying events. It is heart-warming to hear Marlene say what she does about Mrs Cakeworthy. In her male filled world, you can see why Marlene said it, and all is not lost.

The next episode, ‘Animal Rights’ and a skeleton are the big things in it. Marlene has decided to have a clear out and has re-invented herself. It also seems Farmer Boyce has a bird problem. It is amusing to watch when Marlene gets her books muddled up.  Yes, what are those birds called the ‘Black ones?’ they might just be ‘Blackbirds’ this is amusing to watch. It is good but not quite what Marlene had in mind as a good cause but is a solution for keeping the crows from eating the newly planted seeds.

The next episode, the comedy starts right at the beginning, Jed and Bryan have been reading and Tyler and Beth (Lisa Diveney) get a letter from Mrs Cakeworthy via the postman. The comedy timing is perfect. With Tyler not wanting to go to France the result is another clever reference to ‘Only Fools and Horses’. We all know that in France they speak French, a different language to English. This sometimes creates a what is known as a ‘Language barrier’ this is highlighted in this episode as a boy’s name can cross over genders. This sparks chaos in the Boyce household and it is amusing to watch events unfold. However, the speech Marlene gave Tyler is an in-depth life lesson. And with again reference to ‘Only Fools and Horses’ Farmer Boyce finds out some disturbing information.   

The next episode, Farmer Boyce, still getting to grips with farming is feeling generous. It is amusing to watch when he tries to teach his staff ‘Cockney rhyming slang’. It is clever how they set up Llewellyn trying to come up with some money. Farmer Boyce has now got 5000 problems to solve and a team of his staff to help solve them. This highlights that you should never trust a welsh enemy when making an apology. However, Tyler may not be good at welsh saying sorry, but he saves Farmer Boyce, but no one can save Llewellyn, sorry Gareth.

The next episode, there has been a party, one year since the Boyce family moved. It is amusing to hear all about the events during the party. It is clever that despite not seeing the party take place, hearing about it doesn’t take anything away from the fun of finding out what happened at it. Marlene’s sister Pertunia (Paula Wilcox) has now come to visit and strange things are happening on the farm. It is funny to hear the reference to ‘Only Fools and Horses’ again and it is true to the character that he wouldn’t notice Boycie and Marlene had gone, so again another perfect, relevant referral. It seems Farmer Boyce’s staff is all tied up, the poor dog. It also seems there is more than one set of brothers, where one is tall and the other is short. Farmer Boyce can stop running now. It is amusing to see Mrs Cakeworthy enjoy, just a bit too much about being tied up. Oh good another party. It is good to see Boyce is ok, no thanks to the dog though.

The next episode, when is a sunset not a sunset? When it is in the south and there is a fire. It is nice to see Jed’s intelligence at last. It now transpires a kind Marlene and a reluctant Boycie have house guests and the guests as in Bryan and Elgin want to show their appreciation. Farmer Boyce has mentioned on a few occasions that he would like a portrait done of him. which is nice but the amusing part is that, well long ago Farmer Boyce ha a photo taken with him in a kipper tie. There is a lesson to be learnt here, hide your old photos if you find them embarrassing and hope a Mrs Cakeworthy like character doesn’t find one and, with help, turn it into a portrait.

The next episode the Boyce family are taking a trip to see Marlene’s mum Dora (June Whitfield). It is important to note that if you are to come up with an excuse not to go and it is a good one, that the person that has supposed to have died, doesn’t answer the phone to the person you are going to tell the excuse to. This is cleverly put by Marlene, when she points this out to Farmer Boyce and amusing to hear. It also seems Jed has a lot of mates. Now the Boyce family are on their way. Mrs Cakeworthy finds out there is a utility room, it is funny when you realise she is the house-keeper, and attention now turns to Bryan. The Boyce family have arrived at Dora’s, now you could say that Farmer Boyce is successful and has money, so it is good to see that morally it is portrayed as money isn’t everything (well until later on when Dora wants to upgrade her television). Mother in law is going to hate Farmer Boyce whatever life he gives her daughter Marlene. Bryan, back at the farm is trying his luck on a dating website. Setting up his profile is amusing to watch. Bryan now has a date, getting him ready is fun to watch. Sadly, the weekend at Dora’s and Bryan’s date are both cut short.

The next episode, the Boyce family pet Rottweiler ‘Earl’ has gone missing. I feel sorry for Marlene who is so upset, I also feel sorry for her as to who she has to comfort her. Instead of comfort they have a legend to tell her about in the woods. It looks like ‘Earl’ is safe but not everyone is, he is just playing. Tyler thinks he is getting £5000. It is amusing to see Boycie, Bryan and Jed lost in the woods, but they will be ok as Bryan has a ‘Swiss’ and who’d have thought that trees ‘All look the same’. it is good to see Marlene so happy, it is party time, but not for Farmer Boyce. It is good to hear a sensible tip about body warmth, but this is a comedy program so the comedic element is who Boycie is with. And yes Bryan you did get Boycie home, well done. They didn’t have far to walk in the morning. It is so funny to see and nice to know they all got home safe.

The next episode, university is on the horizon. Marlene’s fantasy quickly turns to sorrow. Now we find out where someone is going. Now for the truth. There is a lesson to learn in this episode, not to forget your bike if you are going for your ‘Cycling Proficiency Exam’. It is good to see Farmer Boyce’s staff make Tyler see sense, I don’t necessarily agree with the acceptance routine but where is Dorset? Sadly, Marlene is facing an empty nest. It is good to hear Mrs Cakeworthy mention that not only men and women in love, but anyone and can any man understand women. It is fun to see that in a nod towards ‘The Wizard of Oz’. Goodbye Tyler and lucky Boycie he has his wife back.

The next episode, a new television program pilot is in the making. The name ‘Farm Idol’ is cleverly thought-out, simple but effective. Also is there longer than eternity? Who’d have thought cameras could be so dangerous, although CCTV ones you could say they are, this is brilliant and makes you think.  I hope not all TV programs are made in the way that is portrayed in this episode. Now the farmers are off and Marlene has a secret. Mrs Cakeworthy is determined to find out what it is and almost secretly let’s Farmer Boyce know. The result, poor gay Darryl (Robert Forknall). It is heart-warming to see what Marlene has done for Farmer Boyce, and equally heart-warming to see Farmer Boyce’s reaction (although I don’t condone violence). I do wander where Llewellyn is in this episode, this would have been a good one for him to be in.

The next episode, Bryan’s troubles are increasing his pet turkey is unwell. It is lovely to see Bryan care so much about his pet. It is kind and heart-warming what Marlene says about any expenditure involved. Marlene also wants a holiday and Tyler has had one forced on him. There is never a dull moment in the Boyce household. This episode has a sense of suspense, has Boycie uncovered a family curse? It is brilliant and sadly, funny how Farmer Boyce gets the wrong end of the stick. Who’d have thought a Turkey’s funeral could cause quite a stir. It shows how the mind can play tricks on you, but who’d have thought that having hair would be so important.

The next episode another emergency has happened on the farm. Also Bryan has been ordering from a ‘Mail Order, Bride’ catalogue. Which brings a whole eight/nine set of problems to the Boyce household. And with a big problem to be solved you need an Olympic sized solution. Which is excellently well executed.

The next episode, turmoil has befallen the Boyce household. Now as this is a ‘Sitcom’ it is clever how the script is done to incorporate comedy into what could be described as a ‘depressing set of circumstances’. Remind me not to go to Bryan’s for food. His idea of a mixed grill is not mixed and none of it has been grilled. To say Farmer Boyce is out of his comfort zone is an understatement, it is amusing to watch, and I also don’t think ‘Beetroot, Liver and Tuna’ are the correct recipe/ingredients for a BLT sandwich. The result it is heart-warming to see Boyce and Marlene sort out their differences, almost.

The next episode, it proves you shouldn’t believe all the rumours you hear. Also you shouldn’t put Bryan as head of security. This part is ridicules. The script that Bryan wouldn’t recognise Llewellyn is badly done. It could have been carried out better, to set up Llewellyn finding out what is being made on the farm. Because of this, this makes this episode my least favourite one. Danny (Roy Marsden) and Tony (Christopher Ryan) Driscoll AKA the ‘Driscoll Brothers’ are one, not dead and two, are fish with guns. Another ridicules part is a destroyed door and a still secured lock, they do salvage the scene so it gets better. It is so funny to watch Mrs Cakeworthy hold a séance to contact the Driscoll brothers, when they alive and kicking walk in, in the middle of it. And sadly, they don’t remember Mrs Cakeworthy, but it is funny to watch her interact with them and their response. It is amusing to see all on the farm play ‘Trivia Pursuit’ with the Driscoll brothers. Their answers, although wrong, are cleverly well thought-out none the less. This episode highlights the extreme importance of good communication. Tyler should have been told before he spilt the beans, sorry vodka. Hind sight is a wonderful thing. It is so funny to see Llewellyn meet the Driscoll brothers and the deal is now done.

The next episode, Marlene has a new hobby, ‘Photography’ and Tristram (Jeremy Clyde) local MP and his wife, Veronica (Victoria Carling) makes a visit to the Boyce household, this causes quite a stir. There is a lot going on in this episode. The band has a groupie and Farmer Boyce is in a charitable mood, with his sights set on a visit to ‘Buckingham Palace’. It is clever how Tyler being out rehearsing and hasn’t been home yet, on visiting the pub sees Tyler not being a ‘Good son’. Marlene is photographing a charity calendar, and Farmer Boyce is not happy. This episode is called ‘Calendar Boys’ for a reason a nod to the film ‘Calendar Girls’, so nudity it is then. We have had the word ‘Pendulum’ and ‘Swing Music’ mentioned, Boyce again is misunderstanding, this is amusing to watch. In the end two white envelopes and the calendar causes quite a stir.

The next episode, animal activists have come to the village, and now Marlene wants to adopt all the farm animals as pets. This is so funny, and just to clarify the Boyce family hasn’t got a ‘Waste disposable unit’. Now Tyler wants a business loan, it is brilliant and nice to see that Farmer Boyce will help his son, if he proves himself. This part is not only heart-warming but well put also. It is a lovely ending to the episode the ‘Live Stock aid’ concert is a big hit with Farmer Boyce and Marlene.

The next episode, art and a ‘Dear John’ letter has descended on the Boyce family. Somewhere along the line there has been a miss-understanding, ‘Two men of the world’ have got it very wrong, and why is Tyler smiling in a ‘Rock and Roll’ mood photo? Also Tyler has a visitor. I suppose it is all in a person’s ‘Point of view’. It is strange but amusing to watch and I would say that the bands groupie, Sara (Samantha Sutherland) is more suited to Tyler than Beth.

The next episode, the Boyce family are off to Tyler’s band’s ‘Puddle of Agony’ first gig, much to the delight of their staff. Who find themselves at the pub meeting up with two ‘Psychic detectives’ AKA Ghost hunters. This is interesting to watch and funny. The pair work for a magazine and they are offering five thousand pound for a picture of a ghost. It is cleverly funny when Jed says ‘Like Hello, but in this case Goodbye’. With the Boyce family away the staff want to try for the reward money, but there is ‘A problem’ well a few actually. The biggest one is when wanting to photograph a ghost and when they are only in Mrs Cakeworthy’s head. That is a big problem so the staff have a plan. I do like the additional line that Farmer Boyce add to the wedding vows. Now sadly, for the Boyce family things get worse for a while, but soon change for the better, but now the staff are on holiday. Because of the paranormal element of the episode it makes this one my favourite.

The next episode, there is an unlikely animal on the farm and with the program ‘Antiques Roadshow’ coming to Ludlow, it gives Marlene an excuse to have a clear out, making for some amusing scenes when Mrs Cakeworthy finds out what a vacuum cleaner is, almost, and Fiona Bruce (Herself) is making quite a stir. It is ‘Good news’ Tyler may have found his calling in life. Marlene is happy in more ways than one, Farmer Boyce is worried. Now it is the day of the recording of the ‘Antiques Roadshow’. There are some amusing scenes, but very disappointing for the Boyce family, who have a sadly, smashing time at the recording. Farmer Boyce is not smiling anymore.

In the last episode, a celebration is on the cards in the Boyce household, forty years of ‘Marriage’. However, a forty-year problem has descended on the Boyce family, and Mrs Cakeworthy is ‘I’m not’ listening at the door. It is sad to see Farmer Boyce just thinking about the deposits at a time like this. Tyler is strangely happy about the situation. It is lovely to see the staff being so supportive, not. It is unexpected to see that a man has done what he was told to do, it is funny but things need to re-booked again quickly, or do they? Not for now anyway. It turns out ‘Ignorance is not a defence’ and a there is a small matter of ‘Married tax allowance’. It is nice to see that it is the little things or words is enough of a lovely effort, it is from the heart, not the wallet. It is lovely to see everything turn out perfect in the end and lovely to see a connection, they do love/care for each other, Mr Aubrey Boyce and Mrs Marlene Boyce.

Film of the Week: Johnny English Strikes Again

Johnny English is the king of Spy movie spoofs. The first movie was an original parody of everything that made the classic spy movie great, by emphasising what could go wrong and actually making them go wrong, by implementing silly technologies and gismos, and the biggest parody of them all – making sure the hero completes his mission with luck alone. Johnny English doesn’t complete his missions because he’s extraordinarily brilliant, he completes his missions because he’s unintentionally extraordinary brilliant, and perfectly believes he’s exactly what everyone needs at all times, everywhere he goes. The first film parodied what James Bond takes seriously. It was refreshing and funny, and classic British comedy – Rowen Atkinson was the one and only person to pull off what has now become an iconic British character.

It took a while for the second film to be released, and when it was, people were excited for it. Johnny English Reborn looked at different elements than the first. Still the same spy movie, parodying all what others take seriously. It wasn’t a carbon copy of the first, as some spoof movies happen to do as of late, but instead developed the characters differently than what came before, revealing layers we never saw before – making it equally as funny and quirky and fundamentally British as the first, keeping Johnny English on the list of iconic Britishness.

When it was announced that there would be a third movie, it was met with the same reaction as the second – we were all excited. We weren’t worried about where the characters would be taken this time, or what else could possibly be added to make this any different. To be honest, we weren’t worried about any part of this film. We just kind of didn’t overthink any of it. Instead, we waited for it to be released, and then we saw it, and only then did we put across our opinions.

Johnny English strikes again doesn’t pay any reference to the two previous movies, other than bringing back Johnny’s first right-hand man, Boff, because it doesn’t need to. He’s left the spy business but was eager to come back when invited – mainly because there was no one else available other than old team members, which Johnny promptly made sure weren’t available for long through acts of one blunder after another. There was no build up, we were thrown right back into the action, and therefore the quirkiness, the classic British humour, and everything else that has made this series of films iconic within the British public.

There are a few parallels with the third and first film, plot wise, but are different enough, we simply don’t care. I and many others can see where this film doesn’t quite remain as stable around the edges as the previous two, but due to Johnny English’s status among British public, it’s immune to all of that. We wouldn’t care if all they did with Johnny English is literally remake the first film frame by frame but with different actors other than Rowan; it’s Johnny English.

I will not be revealing any plot details in this review. There’s no need. Everyone in Britain will eventually see the film anyway, if they haven’t already watched the entire trilogy multiple times over. I cannot say anything bad about this film because I’ll probably be thrown in the Tower of London for treason. It’s Johnny English, through and through, enough said.

Thanks for reading

Antony Hudson

(TonyHadNouns)

Mum's Monday: The Black Book by James Patterson and David Ellis

WARNING SPOLILERS

The start of the book ends on some good news, and now this book goes back to, as the book says on recent events, the past.

Six officers are on surveillance; this is well described with some amusing parts interweaved. The surprise comes in the form of who they observe. The plot thickens. It now seems Billy Harney has made some very powerful enemies.

With modern technology, just finding a black book gets even more complicated, as a black book doesn’t need to be an actual book, it is just the general term used to get the point of what you are looking for and what it represents across. Nowadays a black book, as says in in this story could be anything from an actual book to a computer or tablet. This proves sometimes technology, sadly doesn’t always make life easier.

I have often wondered how and why the little details can get in the way of things, but a homicide cop doing a vice cop’s job doesn’t help or could hamper the case in this book so now I know.

Back to the present and chapter twenty-two is brilliant, it is written from the prospective of Billy in and waking up from a coma. Unfortunately, he is in trouble and can’t remember what exactly happened, but at least by the end of chapter twenty-three the old Billy is back.

Going now back to the past, it is not surprising what people will do if it means they could be the next Mayor. It also seems Billy is working on two cases, one we know about and one that only he and one other knows about. this is intriguing and seems it won’t be good for the Chicago police force.

As the various investigations become intriguing, as I read connections are made, sadly people have to be killed off for this to happen.

Now we are back in the present. It is not good that the cop they have nicknamed The Wiz, due to his name, Lieutenant Paul Wizniewski, has taken over Billy’s case, to say he is a bad choice would be an understatement. Seeing that Billy has lost two weeks of his memory, there doesn’t seem to be anything Billy can do about it at the moment. I just need to read on to see how it all pans out.

It must be horrible to lose part, in this case two weeks of memory and seeing text messages at the end of the two weeks, just before the shooting. It is intriguing and weird as to how the text messages came about. although Billy and Amy have started something.

Now back to the past, we may find out more about the case.

This story has a surprising eye opener, Brothels are normally associated with men, however, we have a female visiting, what she’s there for we don’t know for sure yet, but in these modern times why not? So although this is a new development, this is an acceptable revelation and brilliantly worked out and written about, the different angle this could represent blew me away.

This book sadly highlights it is very hard to truly trust people and promises can be broken.

Back to the present and Billy is playing a very dangerous game, if he pretends to get his memory back and makes what happened up. it is best to see if he gets his actual memory of events back, even as the story suggests, so far it isn’t looking good for him.

At the end of chapter sixty-five, Billy announcing to a room full of cops, including The Wiz that he remembers what happened, I get the impression he is testing something out at the moment, I could be wrong and when I read on hopefully it will become clearer either way, right or wrong.

Now we go back to the past and this shows that police work done based on instinct however correct could get the guilty off scot free. There were some good points made in court, but a warrant should have been attained.

I don’t agree on how Kate is going to try and convince the Judge to take the case further.

Just when I have thought one thing, Billy and Amy blow what I think has happened wide open.

Now we come back to the present and having read about the development in the last chapter before coming to the present, I wonder what Patti is doing or planning. As I read on Patti shows a dark side of herself. It is intriguing this new twist and I wonder if Patti is not all she seems. With the things adding up with what Patti has said, what she has done, and the fact that Billy cannot remember what happened either by his injury or by choice. It all points to an overly traumatic crime that sadly all points to one person so far.

Despite trying to talk Billy out of the trial we jump quickly to the trial.

As I read the part of the trial I learn a lot about the technical aspects of a crime, regarding DNA and gun ballistics, this has been well researched and well written about.

I have forgot that someone else could be a suspect as well, it all seems a little confusing how it will all work out.

It is weird how you try to keep someone quiet who cannot remember what happened anyway, only to do something to cause the complete opposite of what you wanted to achieve. Did that little game plan, if it was a game plan, work? Only time will tell.

Now we come to the past and present as Billy is going to give his evidence, yet another twist it is surprising who you cannot trust, but with what is found there is more than one person.

Well what an incredibly shocking revelation, the twist is a big one. it is lovely to see an old late friend and his daughter help Billy, it is heart-warming to read.

It is sad how I interpreted helping Billy as guilt. It is good to see the four kids helping one another.

Who’d have thought running for Mayor could be so full of catastrophic twists and turns and even murder over a Little Black Book.

If you get a chance you can visit The Richard J. Daley public courtyard, which is mentioned in this book, in Chicago, where the story is set. It is situated next to the Richard J. Daley Center and the Cook county court. it is on the corner of W Washington St and N Clark St. I went there around Halloween in 2007 and it was decorated for Halloween including having orange water in the fountains. There is also the impressive Picasso sculpture to see as well.

The Written Podcast: Holiday

As of writing this article, I am on holiday. I’m not anywhere fancy, or abroad, or indeed away from my home. I am writing this article at home whilst on holiday from work. I’ve chosen this topic not to gloat about how my work colleagues are currently at work, dealing with this, that and the other. I’m writing this article because going on holiday away from work is noticeably different from going on holiday from school. There are a large number of you now stating how obvious what I’ve said is, and you’d be right. Of course the two are different. The one big difference is the amount of holiday you get compared to that of school and work.

Here in England, we have what is known as half-terms. They’re pretty much self-explanatory; they’re a holiday which lasts for only a week and happen during the middle of a term. School children gets two half-terms a year, one at the beginning of the year, and one at the end. They also get two weeks off for Easter and two weeks off for Christmas, with six weeks in the middle of the year. If you factor in Bank Holidays as well, school children get a grand total of 64 days off a year. You might be wondering what the problem is. 365 – 64 = 361. Now, that’s not factoring in the two-day weekend, which doesn’t count toward anyone’s holiday because it happens during term time as well. There are 52 Saturdays and 52 Sundays equalling 104 days not at school. 361 – 104 = 259. That’s a lot of days at school, I’m sure any child would say.

Focusing purely on the 64 days of holiday they have, that is a lot when compared to the amount adults get per year. The minimum number of days holiday a company is legally entitled to give you is 20 days, which is four working weeks without weekends. Most companies do give their employees more to begin with, and reward their loyalty to said company by increasing the number of days they can have off. I know someone who has been with a company for 10 years, and therefore is rewarded with 34 day’s holiday. When I was working with him, he was off so frequently it felt as if I was barely seeing him.

Now, understandably, children need 64 day’s holiday, because they’re young, they can’t take the same amount of stress us adults go through at work on a daily basis. We can cope with a certain amount of stress on a regularly continuous basis, it would exhaust the poor children. They complain about the amount of work they’re required to complete at the best of times, when they have absolutely no idea how long my list of uncompleted tasks I have currently on my desk at work, each one with varying amount of importance, and a shed load of responsibility. Yet, I’m currently on holiday, not at all worrying about what I’m not doing at work. I’m legally entitled to take 22 days off work. I can take all 22 at once. The company would prefer if I don’t as it would cause numerous complications what with one of their employees going away for so long, but I can do that. I’d rather not as that would mean a large portion of the year would be holiday free, and that would be tiresome.

That’s one of the big differences between school holidays and work holidays – the mentality. As it nears the six week’s holiday, children are excited. They cannot wait for the final bell to ring at the end of the last day before not having to darken the school doors for six whole weeks. Glorious. I certainly enjoyed every moment not being at school. Waking up in the morning at any time I want, not thinking about school work. And as time approaches normal school hours, and you’re currently sitting in front of the telly in your pyjamas, eating a massive bowl of your favourite cereal, what can be better.

Us adults, when we go on holiday, sure we excited, and sure when we wake up gone passed the time we’d normally wake up for work, and get up when we normally walk in through the doors, and eat our breakfast in front of the telly, not worrying about what’s happening at work, it’s a different kind of excitement. When I was a kid, it was exhilarating to be off school, because I could do everything I wanted: Go running around outside, playing on my PS2, watching my favourite films and TV shows. And then, about a week before going back to school, you get reminded of that fact and get annoyed. You’re going back to school, where you can’t go running around outside, play on your PS2 and watch your favourite films and TV shows.

As an adult, it’s exciting to go on holiday, on a different level entirely. With only 22 days, not a lot can happen. You can relax, finally. You can take a step away from the stressful environment and hit snooze on your alarm as many times as you want. If you’re like me, who doesn’t like lie ins because I’d rather be sitting in my chair watching TV and doing nothing than in my bed – I’ve only just realised there’s no difference between activities other than location. I don’t like lie ins because on those particular holidays where you have to get stuff done, getting up at midday is not beneficial, and I want to make sure I do at least one thing a day, whether that be completing a task I just hadn’t got the time to do due to other responsibilities getting in the way, or getting out of the house just for a walk, or a drive.

With only 22 days, there’s more pressure to make every minute count than with 64 days. That’s not a bad thing in any way, but when it comes to midday and all you’ve done is lounge about the place, something you can do at weekends of which there are 104 days to do just that in, having a day off mid-week, away from the work life, I don’t want to waste that. Getting up at midday will only make me angry that I could have done something during those hours I was in bed. If I accidentally find myself waking up at midday, then I’m not arguing because for some reason or another I needed that amount of sleep.

It would be nice, though, if us adults were allowed 64 day’s holiday. Although, no work would be done. With everyone having that amount of holiday – and I can guarantee at least one person would take the entire package – there’s bound to be some overlapping of employees being off at any one time, and how much work would not be done. Companies would practically come to a grinding halt, wouldn’t they? Or would work productivity increase? There’s certainly a scientific study in there somewhere, but alas, I don’t have the knowledge necessary to deliver my theories on the matter, just point out the impending doom that might befall upon those poor managers who are constantly seeing long lists of incomplete tasks grow ever larger, with practically the entire office almost always empty. But still, 64 days off work… I’d probably get bored, to be honest…

Thanks for reading

Antony Hudson

(TonyHadNouns)

Film of the Week: Anna and the Apocalypse

What would happen if High School Musical had zombies? The answer is in the form of Anna and the Apocalypse, and the blend of the two genres is seamless. I became instantly intrigued by the notion of two very different genres coming together. How can you make a musical featuring zombies? Up until this moment, I firmly believed the two shouldn’t have been put together, but after watching the film, it certainly bitten me. It’s not a musical about zombies, it’s a musical featuring zombies. The happy world where people spontaneously start singing and music starts from nowhere has now been infected with zombies.

It also cunningly weaves a slight self-awareness and parody of the musical genre, by not entirely taking itself seriously, whilst at the same time dealing with the serious case of an apocalyptic situation, full of loss of loved ones and the ever impending doom of not making it to safety before the zombies get you. One of the main songs stats that there’s no such thing as a Hollywood ending. It’s almost as if it’s not only describing the situation about how the male lead feels at the time, but also describing how the whole film is going to play out from that point onwards, whilst also teasing character’s. A fleeting moment showcasing how it’s perfectly aware of the musical moment that’s happening – when one of the characters tell one of his friends to sit down and not partake in the song.

The next song features the two main characters, Anna and John in a duet, completely oblivious to what’s going on around them, singing how it’s a brand new morning and everything’s perfect in their own worlds. I was literally asking how could they not notice at least one thing that’s going around them – people screaming, people running away, cars crashed into lampposts, people acting strange and walking funny – yet that’s the point. It’s a happy musical world that becomes infected with zombies.

Throughout the film, it’s inevitable that some characters are going to get infected and turn into zombies. Unfortunately, despite the inevitability, I was reacted with genuine audible disappointment when some characters did get infected – they are happy characters from a high school musical.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when going into this film, but what I got was probably better than what I could have imagined, as my version of a musical featuring a zombie apocalypse might have included a zombie singing – and the fact that it doesn’t makes this film better on principle.

Oh, and did I mention, it’s also a Christmas movie. Yep, it’s set around Christmas, and has Christmas songs playing over the credits. So, not only is it not a traditional zombie film, or a standard musical film, but also not the happy go lucky Christmas movie either. Makes it all the more tragic when certain characters get killed off and added fuel to my reaction of disappointment when they were. Of course it’s not exactly the film your entire family can sit around on Christmas day after having a massive roast dinner – but it’s certainly one I recommend watching any other time.

Thanks for reading

Antony Hudson

(TonyHadNouns)

Mum's Monday: NYPD Red 3 by James Patterson and Marshall Karp

Part one

This book starts off at a fast pace, it gets to the investigation almost from the start. It is sad to see that although a cop Zach Jordan and his wife Cheryl had an upgrade over the new year, it seems that one, the higher you go, the harder you fall back to reality and two, a cop’s work is never done.

It is an eye opener to use modern technology in determining the time of death, with sent and answered, unanswered and unsent text messages. However, the exact time and cause still needs to be established, and just because someone has no head it doesn’t mean that is what initially killed him. This makes for a very thorough storyline from the beginning.

It is sad to see that a loyal employee, Peter Chevalier, who has worked for his boss, Hunter Alden Jr for twenty-three years and the boss, he wants his car back. He is however, doing all he can to help with the investigation though, which is a good thing in the long run.

It seems NYPD (New York Police Department) has restrictions due to jurisdictions but the NYPD Red is a department with no borders. This gives the author free range to use their imagination on how and where a crime is committed and how it is investigated. It makes the story less complicated to use just two officers Zach and Kylie Macdonald, rather than a whole lot of characters that make the story too busy.

The end of chapter eighteen stumped me until I thought about it for a few seconds. Someone knows more than they are saying. I started to think something completely different and I had almost solved the case, but I hadn’t, so far.

Part two

It seems Silas Blackmore has two jobs, it is a surprise and Hunter should be careful as to who he is actually dealing with.

Although it seems money can buy you power, it is good to see that Alden is not above the law, and Zach and Kylie have the upper hand. It is realistic that Alden is not going to accept the fact. Money can get your own way and spoil a person.

There is a part in this book that is out of the ordinary, in that an expensive padlock has been used out of place, somewhere that doesn’t normally spend that kind of money. Hopefully this will be followed up and investigated. Sadly, however, you have to take a risk, as for every one time something is happening there are many more times that making a fuss can get people into trouble. This in turn can deter people reporting or speaking up and something serious is or can be missed.

It is good to see the two boys are safe but the events that take place are strange and I wonder what Tripp is up to.

All I want to say is ‘Wow poor Silas Blackmore’ I think I have solved the case but now I want to know why, if I am right.

Part three

It is nice to see, once a friend always a friend. Tripp is in over his head and it is good to see Lonnie is willing to help him. I just hope it is legal.

I like what Tripp tried to do, but now the bad guy is out of the picture, I’m not sure if what Tripp wants will happen.

It is good to see that out of the tragedy, good can come out of it. The money will help make the world a better place.

It also doesn’t hurt to start the new year over again. It does help to know exactly the right thing to say though.

The Written Podcast: 4 More SPAM E-mails

Way back in 2016, I wrote about the large amount of SPAM E-mails I was getting, and showcased a few that stood out more than others – those E-mails which actually put a decent amount of effort into trying to get you to obey whatever they were saying. Whether they were telling a story, a sob story about some fictitious person, or threatening you with legal action if you don’t do something – which you’d know is completely fake by how utterly poor they were written.

Sometimes, SPAM is comical. It’s funny for various reasons, whether how it’s presented, how it’s written, or what they’re actually trying to sell. A large amount of SPAM is associated with trying to get your bank details because you’ve been entered into a draw and won the prize and the organisation needs to transfer the money immediately or lose it. Whilst it would be nice to have £4million pounds, tax free go into my bank account, hassle free, It’s better off just deleting the E-mail instead.

But, if you’re me, you’d collect and save your SPAM E-mails, as weird as it sounds. Why do I save my SPAM E-mails? To be honest, it was way back in 2016 when I started saving them, now it’s 2019, I’ve genuinely forgotten the reason, but I’m sure it’s justifiable enough to keep on saving them.

This post is the sequel to my other post, and I’d like to show you 4 more SPAM E-mails that’s desperately tried to get me to sign up or hand over the details.

Note: You may have to enlarge the images to see them properly.

Other note: There is no particular order with these E-mails. It’s not counting down from what I personally believe to be the worst to the best, just a collection of some of the E-mails I’ve gathered together over the years.

1. 

The first E-mail is from a person called Jack, and he’s proposing a business opportunity. He gets extra points for spelling my name right, and capitalising both my forename and surname, which I’ve seen plenty fail to do. Almost enticing, to be honest. He then asks if I’m doing well before explaining the reason why he’s sending me this E-mail. He loses points due to how busy it is. Whilst I understand why he changed the colour of the 4 points for emphasis and draw the eye, it actually made it hard to read properly. Especially when the green sentence underneath clashes with the blue, really making it difficult to focus on what’s being said…

I didn’t answer for obvious reasons, which meant Jack was allowed to be persistent. He sent me another E-mail, asking if I had read the previous (which I had). His professionalism has declined with this, as he starts off with only but an “hi” with no name. He does apologise to me for his persistence, which was a nice gesture, and made sure it was emphasised with green writing, but again made it a little difficult to read properly. His wondering nature as to whether I had acknowledged his last E-mail, followed by how my comments would be valuable to him and his team, seemed tempting, especially when Jack is currently looking forward to my reply. I hope he sees this post as that’s all the replying he’s going to get.

2.

I especially enjoyed reading this E-mail. It’s from an anonymous person, with the nickname of filmer91, who solely operates on the darknet. He hacked my mailbox six months ago, and it took him that long to inject a Trojan into my operating system, and has been watching my every movement – my every mouse clicks, button press, website I’ve visited, (which means he also watched me save his E-mail into the folder where I keep all the rest of the SPAM I’ve kept, and is currently watching me write this post, and will subsequently watch me upload it. Ah, he’s reading this before any of you guys do; now that’s cheating.

Joking aside, he has infected my operating system. I haven’t had any side effects, although my internet did play up that day… Oh dear. Well, there’s nothing I can do about it, because according to his E-mail, I can’t change my password. The best part about this E-mail is how it states whoever’s behind this has taken a screenshot of me via my webcam – except I don’t have a webcam… I’m beginning to think something’s afoot here. Or, maybe they’re saying that to make me think he’s all rubbish, when actually it’s all true. Spooky.

After reading the E-mail, I had only 48 hours to comply with paying him through bitcoin or else. Well, it’s been some time after reading it, and nothing’s happened yet.

3.

First of all, I didn’t read that first line correctly, because I do not speak the language. My first clue for this being SPAM. I would love to make $2500 without effort, but the thought of signing up to this operation brought me to the conclusion it’ll take effort, so I didn’t do it… and I haven’t received my first paycheque yet… Am I missing something?

4. 

When I got this E-mail, a person randomly appeared in my room and started massaging me. I did not have a premium account so I was obligated to ignore it, except it was quite hard to do, especially when their hands really worked on my shoulders, untying a good amount of knots in my muscles. It was so relaxing; I could barely get any work done. Afterward, I felt obligated to reply and state my problematic time with ignoring the massage and that I’d like to sign up for the premium account. After all, since I didn’t ignore it, it’s only fair. They haven’t gotten back to me yet. I haven’t received another massage yet. I have many knots in my shoulders again. I miss that massage – it was the best.

Thanks for reading

Antony Hudson

(TonyHadNouns)