End of they Year

Hey all,

Well, another year has come and gone. I'm sure you have all had some different experiences, and are now a little bit more wiser due to them. But we must never forget what we have endured. Like the departure of so many amazing TV series. Breaking Bad, Dexter, The Office, Futurama. These are a select few to mention. We must also remember that every so often, a new generation is born. This year we saw the birth of the next generation in gaming, the Xbox one and the PlayStation 4. It will be a long time, before I can afford one of them.

After appearing on our screens for 8 years, we say goodbye to much loved, 'The Office' 

Unfortunately, there will be no review today, as it is the last day of the year. So I offer you the chance to glance back on your life. What new experiences in the world of entertainment have you witnessed? Have you purchased a new generation console? Discovered a new TV series that has absolutely rocked your core? Seen a new film that has left you with goosebumps that has lasted the entire day? Or all together, experienced something remarkable that has totally revolutionized your life and perhaps your future? For example, mine would be discovering and further enhancing my love for writing, by creating this blog, and watching and analyzing every TV show, Film or video game that I have witnessed. Judging them on their appeal, based primarily on their engaging story-telling. 

One of these days, Xbox One. One of these days, I will own you. 

In the meantime, thank you to all those who have joined me every time I have updated my blog. And those who have stayed with me throughout the entire time. It is your devotion towards reading my material that has caused me to further strive towards my goal of becoming a better writer. So for that, I can personally say, to the deepest, depths of my heart. Thank you. I hope that you will all continue to read my material in the near future and during the new year of 2014. 

So for now, as I have always said and always will say, stay tuned for more exciting posts. Till then, have an amazing day, a fun and enjoyable night, a prosperous new year and please, take care. 

Davo. Out

A Year in Review (Part 2)

Welcome back,

And here we are. Part 2 of 'A Year in Review'. I hope you have all been keeping up by reading my previous entry. So, without further ado, let us journey on as further into the year of 2013, from July through to December.

JULY

July started off with a bang, as I celebrated my 21st birthday. July also brought in the newest addition to the 'Mario & Luigi' franchise, with the game 'Mario & Luigi: Dream Team Bros.' Made exclusively for the 3DS, it was highly anticipated as an expansion to the already amazing franchise. July also ended one of Australia's great TV drama series, 'Packed to the Rafters'. After appearing on our screens for over 6 seasons, the cast and crew finally ended the show with an emotional and memorable episode that is sure to bring tears to any of their fans.

AUGUST

August struggled to make an impact with very little astounding releases being released. One notable release was the downloadable Xbox game, 'Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons', which was met with critically acclaimed reviews. It follows the story of two brothers as they embark on a journey to save their ill father. 

SEPTEMBER

September brought forth one of the most hyped and anticipated games of the year. Grand Theft Auto V. Grand Theft Auto V was released to critical acclaim for it's characters, storyline and most importantly the graphic detail. September also concluded two amazing TV series; 'Dexter' and 'Breaking Bad'. Dexter finished off with an amazing episode that is sure to tug at the emotional heart strings of many. Breaking Bad finished off the series with a bang, that ended with a teary good-bye to Walter White, that was surely bound to leave many in the fetal position trying not to cry. September also saw the end of the revived animated series, 'Futurama'. After being cancelled for 5 years, it appeared back on our screens in 2008. Now, another 5 years later, it gracefully left our screens yet again, in a very heartfelt and emotional episode.

Such an amazing series. And an amazing photo. Can definitely see it as a poster hanging in my bedroom

OCTOBER

October. October was the month that I had been waiting for all year. October brought in the long awaited new Pokemon game, Pokemon X and Y. After waiting a full on 10 months since the announcement at the start of the year, let's just say, it was totally worth it. October also brought forth 2 more anticipated games. The prequel to the highly acclaimed 'Batman: Arkham' series, 'Batman: Arkham Origins'. And the sequel to the ever popular 'Assassin's Creed' franchise, 'Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag'. Both games were released with mixed reviews, with similar views based on their respective gameplays. 

Another great picture. Can also see this one as a poster hanging in my room

NOVEMBER

November came and went without too much drama. Was a slight disappoint with the new game, 'Watch Dogs' as it was delayed for release till 2014 ('Not Happy, Jan'). However, it made up for it with the new 'Zelda' game, 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds'. 'Link Between Worlds' was released to highly critical acclaimed with appreciation towards the roots and foundations that was laid during the 'Link to the Past' time. 

DECEMBER

December began with a slow start. Not many releases, until however closer to Christmas and Boxing Day. A lot of excitement was geared towards the new films, 'Anchorman 2' and 'The Hobbit: the Desolation of Smaug'. Both films were met with mixed reviews by critics. Personally, I have to see them both, but am eagerly looking forward to it.

Could 2014 be here any quicker?! Because I can't wait to try this game out. Can you?

Well, there we have it. The year that was 2013, in two little nutshells. Looking back upon the year that was, I've come to realize that it has been an alright time. A lot of excellent game releases. A lot of emotional TV series endings. But most importantly, a lot of fun. So what's in store for 2014 you say? Well, there are a lot of expected game releases that I'm looking forward to ('Watch Dogs', 'Super Smash Bros. 3DS'). But what it comes down to, is what you make of it. Make your own decisions in life, and your bound to have an awesome year.

Did you enjoy my summary of 2013? Do you think or feel that I may have missed something out? Then by all means, feel free to leave a comment in the comment section below. In the meantime, stay tuned for more, as I dish out more exciting and awesome posts. Till then, I hope you have an awesome day, take care and good-bye.

Davo. Out.

A Year in Review (Part 1)

Hey all,

2013 is slowly drawing to a close, and 2014 is just around the bend (Bring it On). And with the sad departure of anything, we tend to reminisce on the good times. And the bad times. So with that in mind, I present to you my 'Year in Review' for 2013. For this particular post, I will be only looking back on the first half of the year (January - June) and the next half will appear later on. So, without further ado, let's begin.

JANUARY

January heralded in a new era. A new generation. And a fresh new start. Nintendo started off the year by announcing the newest addition to the Pokemon franchise, Pokemon X and Y, for the Nintendo 3DS to be released later on in the year. There was much hype and excitement about that. Well, I know I for one was very excited to hear about it. As were some of my friends as well.

FEBRUARY

February attempted to deliver, with the release of Metal Gear Rising: Revengance. Whilst it was very short (too short for my liking), it more than made up for it, in its boss battles and killer soundtracks. February also brought the premiere of the new 'Die Hard' film, 'A Good Day to Die Hard'. The only thing I have to say to that is, when will they just let it go. Please, no more 'Die Hard' films. Ok?

A LOT of hacking and slashing in this game. Dare I say, a bit too much

MARCH

With the arrival of March came a number of different additions with it. Tomb Raider was released, with Square Enix announcing that it would act as both a reboot to the older game, well as a prequel. Needless to say, it was quite the adventure ride. Although to be honest, I did get a bit sick and tired of her screaming. March also brought in the highly anticipated Game of Thrones: Season 3. With high expectations from the previous seasons, let's just say, it certainly did not disappoint. 

A lot excitement and hype geared towards this. Fun Fact: was the most pirated season of 2013

APRIL

April attempted to provide us with something, but it struggle. The most prominent arrival during this month, was the game 'Injustice: Gods Among Us'. With a lot of DC fans eager to play it, some also had questions about the game. Mainly being, who would win in a fight? Batman or Superman? Unlike most superhero games, which mainly consisted of third person adventure, 'Injustice' took aspects from fighting games, such as 'Tekken' or 'Street Fighter' to deliver a jaw-dropping experience.

MAY

May brought in fine additions to the first half of the year. 'Iron Man 3' was released with very high expectations. With the two previous 'Iron Man' movies being blockbuster events, it certainly set the bar pretty high for the final film. Another anticipated film for the month of May, as well as 2013, was the film, 'The Great Gatsby'. Based on the novel, it starred Leonardo di Caprio (Jack from 'Titanic') as the millionaire, Jay Gatsby. There was a lot of hype towards this film, with great reviews from a number of critics. However, there was one question that everyone was asking. Would Leonardo finally get an Oscar for his role? Finally for May, there was more excitement for 'How I Met Your Mother' fans, after waiting for years, and watching countless seasons, the 'Mother' was finally revealed at the end of Season 8. 

JUNE

Finally came June. June drew the first half of 2013 to a close, with quite a bang. Game of Thrones: Season 3 drew to a climatic close, with many goosebumps appearing over our bodies. The highly anticipated new Superman film was released. Titled 'Man of Steel', it was released to mixed reviews and questions. E.g.: Where are his red undies?

Well, that is the first half of the year in review. The next half will appear in about or day so. Do you feel I may have left something out? Or is there anything you would like to add? Then please feel free to leave a comment in the comment section. Otherwise, stay tuned for more exciting posts. Hope you all have a lovely, sunny day. Till next time, take care and good-bye

Davo. Out

Mad Christmas Dash 3.1 - Movies!!!

Hey all,

Welcome back. Are you still struggling to come up with another gift idea? Starting to think that all hope is now lost? Well fear not, because it isn't, for I have got one gift idea that is always easy to buy. And it usually pleases anyone. Gift Vouchers! Or Gift Cards! They are the best and easiest gift idea to date. And there are so many different varieties out there. Ranging from department stores to electronic stores. Even some that work online! E.g.: iTunes, Xbox Marketplace, Playstation Network. Although, there is one that I would like to turn your attention to, and that is Movie vouchers. Yes, that's right. Gift Vouchers that you can purchase from the cinema centre, and can be redeemed for movie viewings. So without further ado, let's begin.

There is one thing I adore about the Film and Television industry, and that is the creativity. I enjoy viewing something, and thinking to myself, 'Wow. That is amazing. How did they come up with that? How did they do that?'. These questions that I ask myself is something that I enjoy doing, and something that I hope one day will be answered once I enter the industry. But, enough about that.

They're back. This is one film that I would love to see.

A bit hesitant on this one. Judging by the trailers, it is DEFINITELY intended for children. But you never know.
Adults may enjoy it too. I mean, everyone likes a Disney film.

With all the new movies that are coming out, there is just about something for anyone. There is the new 'Frozen', which is a Disney children's movie. There is the new 'Hobbit' film, coming from the great mind of Peter Jackson. And then there is also the new 'Anchorman' which has just been recently released less than a week ago. There are many more out there that are either released or yet to be released. There are also going to be different types of movies out there. Each one will be different from the next (hopefully). And each one will appeal to different individuals. Which in turn makes a Cinema Gift Voucher the perfect Christmas present for someone this year. Or the next year. Or the year after that.

Another film that I would love to see. Looks absolutely EPIC!!!

If you're considering purchasing a Cinema Gift Voucher for someone this Christmas, you can always head down to your local Cinema Centre and buy one from there. They come in all sorts, ranging from 2 person vouchers, to family vouchers and even gold class vouchers. So why not keep it in mind. Well then, I hope you enjoyed another awesome gift idea. Remember, give the ultimate gift this year with a Cinema Gift Voucher. You will not be disappointed. 

Thanks for reading this blog post. I hope you have enjoyed it. Stay tuned for more, have an awesome day, and take care.

Davo. Out.

Mad Christmas Dash 3.0

Hey all,

Well, the countdown is almost over. Only 2 more sleeps to go before Christmas. And with that scary, looming pressure coming down upon us, I hope you have all finished your Christmas shopping by now. If not, then you better get a wriggle on, before the last minute shopping rush arrives. However, if you STILL don't know what to get someone, that's fine, for I am here to help. Just another question though. Is that someone a fan of fantasy? More specifically, are they a fan of 'Game of Thrones'?

If you haven't heard of it, 'Game of Thrones' is currently HBO's newest hit series, chronicling the epic battle amongst the warring houses that occupy the fictional region, Westeros. Each warring house are all after the same goal, the Iron Throne, a throne that is literally made out of swords. A truly amazing TV series, 'Game of Thrones' has been on air since it premiered in mid-2011. Having finished season 3 about halfway through 2013, there is now an unbelievably LONG wait for season 4. Anyway, back to the subject at hand, 'Game of Thrones' is loosely based on a book series, created by the amazingly talented, George R.R. Martin, called 'A Song of Ice and Fire'.

The amazing book series. Thank you so very much George R.R. Martin

Now, I don't normally talk about books (as this blog is primarily focused on Television, Film and Video Games), but I am going to make an exception. I personally own most of the books (still lacking 'A Feast for Crows' and 'A Dance with Dragons 2') and I must say, that they are joy to read. George's writing style is truly amazing and astounding. The books have everything a true fantasy lover could want. From action, to magic. Love, to hate. The characters that you love. And then the characters that you absolutely loathe. It is certainly a series that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a good read, has a love for fantasy (as stated numerous times already) or enjoys the 'Game of Thrones' series.

The amazing book series, all packed in one collectors edition. No more purchasing one book at a time

If you would like to purchase this book, it is currently available at your local bookstores or department store. I do know that they have a complete edition within some bookstores. Unfortunately, I do not know the exact amount it is, however I think it might be about $100 or so. Not sure. Well then, I hope you enjoyed my blog post about another awesome Christmas present to consider buying. I hope it was very helpful to you. Stay tuned for more great gift ideas. In the meantime, have a great day and take care.

Davo. Out

Mad Christmas Dash 2.0 - Breaking Bad

Hey all,

Well then, 3 more days till Christmas. Not long now. Not long indeed. And are you still looking for the perfect gift for that special someone? Or have you just left all your Christmas shopping till the last minute, and have no idea what to get someone? Well, I have an excellent Christmas present idea. But just a quick question first? Is the person that you're buying for, a fan of Breaking Bad? If so, then you are in luck!

If you don't already know, Breaking Bad is one of AMC's most critically acclaimed Television series of the past decade. Let alone the century.  Anyhow, it finished airing a couple of months ago, with it's awe-inspiring, jaw-dropping, heart-thumping series finale, that went off with a bang. Needless to say, there is now a collector's edition out which houses all 5 seasons. Of course, there are a number of Breaking Bad collector's editions out already. But the one that I would like to focus on today, is one that I personally would love to have for Christmas.

Shown above is the edition that I am talking about. As clearly seen, the box (or in this case, barrel) comes with all 5 seasons, which packs neatly into the container. Also included are all the special features, plus a 2 hour documentary on the making of the final season. Could it get anymore awesome?! Of course it can! As an added bonus, you also get an apron, courtesy of 'Los Pollos Hermanos', the fast-food restaurant that Walt temporarily 'worked at'. This collection can be all yours for the price of $200. While it does sound rather dear, I guarantee you, that if you are a fan of Breaking Bad, then it would be worth every cent. Oh and did I mention that it's Blu-Ray? While this means that you can't play it on an ordinary DVD player, you must have a certified Blu-Ray DVD player, or a PS3. But trust me. It will be worth it.

So what do you think? Another brilliant idea for a Christmas present. If I was receiving this as a gift for Christmas, then it would have made my day. So seriously consider giving it to the ones that you love this Christmas. 

Stay tuned for more posts, as I present to you more wonderful gift ideas, in the BIG build-up to Christmas. Till then, have a great day and take care.

Davo. Out 

Pokepics update

Hey guys,

Just a quick update on my Pokemon Y account. I have traveled far along the new Kalos region, and have been slowly building up my new Eeveelutions team. We have already won a number of battles online. Anyway, just a couple of quick photos on my recent journey, each taken at different intervals and locations. Enjoy.

Here's me in Couriway town, well known for it's many waterfalls.

Here's me in Snowbelle city. The Gym is on the right,
and the pokemon Abomasnow is in the distance

Here's me again in Couriway town. I've changed my clothes this time.

Here's me on a Lapras out at sea.
What's scary, is at the time of this picture, I didn't have a Lapras.

Now, for the next lot of photos, my photographer, Phil the Photo guy, he uh. Well, let's just say that his photography skills took a turn for the worst. I'll let you be the judge.

Here's my, uh, feet. I think I was at Shalour City,
in front of the Tower of Mastery.

Here's the top of my head whilst I was in front of the
Battle Chateau. Geez, get your act together Phil

Here's my, bike. Clearly I'm in a snowy region. But my bike?
Seriously?

Here I am in front of Prism Tower. The most known location
in all of Kalos, and he stuffs it up somehow. 

Here's me on  Lapras again. There must be something
fascinating about the island in background
I don't know what though. The tree, perhaps? 

Well, that's all my current photos. If I can find anymore locations to take pictures of, I will. In the meantime, stay tuned, for who knows, I may put some more up. 

And for all you Pokemon Trainers out there. Keep at it, and rise for the top. Take it from me, it can VERY hard in the online battles. And be unique, have fun. Remember, it's not about having the best Pokemon stat wise. It's about having the Pokemon that mean a lot to you and that you truly care about. So enjoy the journey while you can.

Davo. Out

Mad Christmas Dash - Link Between Worlds

Hey all,

Well, with less than a week to go before Christmas, the Mad Dash for shopping has begun. And if you still haven't gotten a present for that special someone, or you don't know what to get them, then you are in luck. Over the next couple of days leading up to Christmas, I will be putting up posts about the latest and greatest games, films, Television shows and even merchandise. So let's get this show on the road, with the first product, and one of my favourite games for the summer, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds.

'A Link Between Worlds' is the latest edition to the Zelda 3DS franchise. As a sequel to the critically acclaimed 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past' (which came out on the Super Nintendo back in 1991), 'Between Worlds' brings back a vast amount of content that made 'A Link to the Past' so acclaimed. Content such as the dungeons, the Master Sword and the ability to travel between two alternate worlds. 'Link Between Worlds' is just like any Zelda game. The main protagonist (Link) is an ordinary average Joe, who just so happens to be the new Hero of the generation. Through an unfortunate series of events, the antagonist kidnaps the damsel in distress, and the Hero must save the damsel, whilst at the same time save the world. Whilst the Zelda games do follow an unusually similar story-line, the content within each game is widely different from the next.

Prison Break: the Zelda edition

One of the newest contents that is introduced in 'Link Between Worlds' is the ability to merge with walls and become a real-life painting. Whilst this may weird, and even ridiculous, it adds a whole new definition to the puzzle solving aspect of the game. As seen in the picture above, whilst the bars may look like decorations and might hinder Link as a whole, when he is in painting form, he is able to slip through the bars, and emerge on the other side, totally unscathed. I reiterate, it adds a whole new dimension to the puzzle solving aspect. Another new content in the game, is the ability to collect any item at will. As with most Zelda, you must follow a certain order of dungeons in order to complete the game, and you are only able to acquire a new item (or weapon) within said dungeon. However, with 'Link Between Worlds' you are able to rent an item at will, and can choose whatever dungeon to complete. This sense of freedom is an added bonus to an already amazing game.

Ravio, the owner of the store, may be weird. But check out his pet. Is it a bird?

 Do you know of someone who is a true die-hard Zelda fan? Or someone who loves puzzle solving and adventure games? Then I HIGHLY recommend 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds'. Not only does it employ the same techniques that have made the franchise so unique, it also sends you on a trip down memory lane, as it re-uses the same tactics from 'A Link to the Past'. Personally, I give it a total score of 9/10. It truly is a breath-taking game. However, if they added more ways to spend the currency, Rupees, then it would've been better. I've already reached the maximum limit, and don't know what to do with it. 

So there we have it. One idea for a Christmas gift down. Many more to come. If you're wondering where to buy 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds', it is available for purchase from any of your local department stores, or electronic stores. So why not pick it up for someone. Or maybe for yourself (From: Santa. To: Me). That's it for now. Stay tuned for more posts on 'Davo's TVG Film Reviews'. Till then, have a great weekend.

Davo. Out.

'Now you See me' - Now you don't

Hey all,

I'm back for more reviews. And with just over a week to go before Christmas, perhaps these reviews may entice you to buy a couple of stocking stuffers. Today's review will be one based on a film. So without further ado, I'd like to introduce you to today's review, 'Now you See me'.

'Now you See me' is a 2013 mystery, crime film that follows an FBI agent and an Interpol detective, as they track down a team of 4 illusionists, who pull off a string of bank robberies during their performances. When I first heard this, I started thinking that this would sort of be like 'Bonnie & Clyde' meets 'Ocean's Eleven', but with magicians. And man, was I semi-wrong. 'Now you See me' takes a few essences from 'Ocean's Eleven' (choosing the right people, and the heists) and adds in a few more mysteries to really spice it up.

Now then, let's get down to business. I am a real sucker for mystery genres. I love the many plot twists, and occasionally plot branches that can stem from a story-line. But what I love the most, is the thrill of having to guess what is going to happen next. Or once the big twist has been revealed, looking back on the start of the story, and piecing it together. 'Now you See me' does exactly that. With the many plot twists and mysteries, it is very thrilling. But you can sort of expect that, as it is a movie about magic. And magic is all about wondering how the trick was performed. One thing I did not like about the story, is that I felt it went for too long. I hate when you are lead to believe that it is drawing to a close, and then next thing you know, there is another scene. It can really peeve me off. 

Time to get technical. As a student, studying TV production, it can be rather annoying to watch a movie with me, as I tend to pick at it afterwards. But with that being said, there are a few issues that I would like to point out. The most important one (that I would like to mention) is the camera work. I didn't like it. Clearly the director, Louis Leterrier, likes to circle the main subject with the camera. It can be used quite well. However, if you constantly do it, then it grows boring and feel a bit redundant. Also induces dizziness as well. 

Featuring a star studded line-up, such as Jesse Eisenberg ('The Social Network'), Mark Ruffalo ('The Avengers'), Morgan Freeman ('Shawshank Redemption', 'Batman Trilogy') just to name a few, 'Now you See me' is a movie that will leave you guessing. With the many plot twists, and a couple of 'huh?' or 'What?' moments, it is sure to make you leaving with many thoughts and questions. Overall, I give it a 7.5/10. If it had not dragged out for so long, or improved some of the camera work techniques, I would've given it a much higher score.

Well, I hope you enjoyed my review of 'Now you See me'. If you would like to purchase it, it is out now on DVD or blu-ray in selected department stores or DVD stores. Stay tuned for more reviews. Till then, take care and enjoy the rest of your day.

David. Out.