30 Rocking

Hey all,

Well, after a long (very long) hiatus, I'm back. And boy has it been a long one. Over the past couple of weeks, University has finished for the year, which now means that I am no longer a second year, and now onto my third and final year (yay!!!). I have also moved back home for the next 4 months, (and currently seeking work). So during this time, I am hoping to post some more blog reviews, and maybe even practice my script-writing by churning out some scripts. Who knows. But for now, let's get onto our first review for the next 4 months, "30 Rock".

How have I not seen this show till now?! "30 Rock" revolves around the everyday life of Liz Lemon (played by Tina Fey), as she deals with being the head writer of a live variety program called "The Girly Show". However, her world is turned upside down when the new network executive Jack Donaghy (played by Alec Baldwin) decides to interfere with her show, and tweak it, a bit. One of the 'improvements' is introducing the very eccentric and unpredictable Tracy Jordan (played by Tracy Morgan) into the cast, which provides disastrous, but hilarious results.

I have been watching "30 Rock" over the past couple of days, and may I just say, I have been laughing non-stop. As I want to make it into the TV industry as a writer, this show really appeals to me, as it focuses mainly on the writers, and the many conflicts that can arise. I feel it also provides me with a first hand look into how they create different TV episodes in the industry.

Each episode mainly focuses on the lead character Liz Lemon, who is played by Tina Fey. Now, Tina Fey portrays the characters amazingly. The very mannerisms and habits that are associated with Liz, Tina flawlessly handles it, by never changing the way the character acts. Sure, she changes a little, as she learns more about life from Jack, but she still withholds her little clicks every single time. The same goes for Jack Donaghy, played by Alec Baldwin. Jack is a brash, rather cocky character who always seems to look down upon Liz Lemon and constantly interferes with her life, and Alec, like Tina, plays it amazingly. From his serious, quiet voice, to his rather condescending laughs, Alec's portrayal of Jack Donaghy just seems to good to be true. 

"30 Rock" is a wonderful view into the TV industry. Granted, I have never been in a real-life TV studio, however, upon viewing "30 Rock", I am beginning to have a fair understanding of what to expect. Each episode is crafted beautifully, with a different story, which provides a certain twist every time. The characters are each uniquely awesome and the actors who respectively portray them are superb. Overall, I give "30 Rock" an 8/10. Whilst it is amazing, some characters really peeve me off. And in some scenarios, it lacked a bit of comic relief. But all in all, it is a must see for those interested, studying, or working in the TV industry.

Well then, I hope you have all enjoyed my review of "30 Rock". Sorry about the very long absence, but I have been rather busy, and been lacking some content to write about. But don't worry, as there will be more to come over the next 4 months. I promise. So stay tuned. =)

David. Out.

The new era in Pokemon gaming

Hey all,


Well, I'm back. It's been a bit of while since my last post (almost 2 weeks ago. Egad), and sorry about this, but I've been busy with study, and of course the new Pokemon came out last week, so I have been a bit preoccupied with that as well. But I digress. Anyway, like I mentioned, the new generation of Pokemon gaming has landed. About a week ago. And I have been more than captivated by it's sheer beauty and spectacular display of innovation that it has provided.

As mentioned earlier, a week ago, on the 12th of October, Pokemon X and Y was released. This is now the 6th generation in Pokemon gaming, and you kinda start to think to yourself, 'Again? Seriously? When will they ever stop?' Well, that is like saying, 'When will Call of Duty stop, or introduce something different?' Pokemon will always be around, as it continues to pump out new ideas, and new creatures in order to exploit the younger generation and the young at heart. Unfortunately, I fall into this category, as I have been with Pokemon since the start. So, because of this, I was more than eager to get it. And boy, I was not let down. 

One of the awesome features in Pokemon X/Y. No more looking down at their hat constantly for us.

Upon entering the Pokemon world once again, I found myself immersed in a way I had not felt in a long time. The biggest and most obvious difference that was encountered was the new 3D that has been introduced into the battle system. Absolutely stunning. I had to remember to keep closing my jaw, because it kept falling open every time I played. The new 3D battles give off a much deeper sense with the introduction of new battle effects, and the Pokemon moving freely, instead of a sprite just jumping up and down, it brought me back to the old days, when I used to play Pokemon Stadium 1 & 2 on the Nintendo 64 with my brother and sister. It felt truly magical.

Dragonite versus Xerneas. Seriously Dragonite, what with the new Fairy type, you may as well forfeit.

A number of new features are also introduced into Pokemon X and Y. One noticeable feature, is the ability to change the way your character looks. You are able to change his or her clothing, by purchasing it at clothing stores around the Pokemon region, and even able to change his or her hair styles. A big feature that is introduced within the battle system is the all new Mega Evolution. Mega Evolution is only available for a certain amount of Pokemon, such as Lucario or Charizard. It is unfortunately only operable within a battle and can only be used once per battle. But boy, when it's used, it is. EPIC! The Pokemon's base stats such as attack and defense are greatly increased, and they are also given a new look. Some of them look awesome. And I must mention that another feature is the camera shots. Located around the region are little camera signs. When operated, you are able to have your character's picture taken at the selected area. I have a couple of pictures that I will put at the bottom of this post.

The new Mega Mewtwo. As shown, Mewtwo can Mega-evolve into two different forms.
Depending on the game that you are playing of course.

Well, that's my little rant about the new Pokemon games. And to say that it is good is an understatement. It is, amazing. So many new features that have been implemented since the previous generations. I must admit, I was doubtful how they were gonna pull it off. But I am glad that they did. Overall, I give Pokemon X and Y a 9.5/10. This game is superb in both it's graphical look and it's in-depth storytelling. The one thing that really peeved me, was the numerous interactions with the character's 'friends'. Whenever you practically entered a new area, and were close to encountering something new and amazing, BAM, they'd appear out of nowhere, and give some corny speech about friendship and love. Seriously, I found it annoying. If this had been decreased slightly, then it would have at least been given a 10.


Well, that's all for this post. Hope you enjoyed it. And if you are interested in purchasing Pokemon X or Pokemon Y, you can purchase it at one of your local department stores, or electronic retail stores. Hope you stay tuned for more posts. But for now, good-bye, and have a great weekend.


David. Out.

Ok, This is me at 'Prism Tower' (AKA: the Eiffel Tower of the Pokemon World)

Here I am in front of the 'Frost Cavern'. I changed clothes.

Here I am in front of the 'Anistar Sundial'. It lights up every night between 8pm - 9pm

Here I am in front of a huge hole. It's rather big when it comes to the storyline

And here I am in front of the big league. The Pokemon League, where the Elite Four reside

It's time, for a little Breaking Bad

Hey all,

Welcome back to the start of another week, and of course, the start of another blog entry. I hope you have all enjoyed your weekend, and have used it productively. And I hope that everyone in N.S.W has enjoyed the pubic holiday today. Because I know I have. Moving on, over the weekend, I would like to say I have been productive, but then that would be a big, fat lie. In retrospect, I have done practically jack all, and instead caught up with the Emmy award winning show, 'Breaking Bad'.

'Breaking Bad' is, in a nutshell, Amazing!!! It tells the story of a High School chemistry teacher, called Walter White. Walter has always been good, and never done anything against the law. However, that all changes when he realizes that he has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Now facing this new revelation, and the real horror of what might happen to his family after he passes away, Walter decides to join up with an ex-student, now turned drug addict and dealer, Jesse Pinkman, in cooking up crystal meth with him, in order to provide enough money for his family.

The story layout of 'Breaking Bad' is fantastic. Every single episode, there is a moment that keeps you on the edge of your seat. A moment, where you can feel the heart rise to the back of your throat. Moments where you truly care for the characters, and the decisions that they make, be it stupid or smart. Series creator, Vince Gilligan, has done a fine job indeed. The layouts for each episode, is nicely conceived. There are no kinks. There are no 'When did that happen?' moments. And what's amazing is how each episode is nicely able to tie in with the previous and the next, but still maintain it's original details. It doesn't tail over, and start joining any other episodes. Each story line for 'Breaking Bad' is, in a way of saying, a true masterpiece worthy of the ages.

The cast and characters for 'Breaking Bad' are fantastic. Each actor is nicely paired up with their corresponding character, and they suit them, like a glove. Bryan Cranston, who plays Walter White, is unbelievable. It's hard to believe, that Bryan used to play the father of Malcolm, from 'Malcolm in the Middle'. Walter turns from being a docile chemistry teacher, to a gun-toting, drug cooker over the seasons. And Bryan plays the role amazingly, with the transition of Walter's personality played out slowly, so as not to cause confusion. Among other characters are; Walt's drug partner Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), Walt's wife Skylar White (Anna Gunn) and many others to name a few. All of whom play their roles beautifully, thus making their characters very believable.

In essence, 'Breaking Bad' is a masterpiece of a show. The true raw, and power of the stories of each episode. The different characters portrayals. The look and feel, of how the drug world works. 'Breaking Bad' has truly become one of the great TV shows of the decade. Overall, I give it a 9.5/10. Whilst it is amazing (amazingly amazing), there are slight moments, when you really hate some characters. But all in all, it is a beautiful piece of Television, and I highly advise anyone who has not seen it, to go and watch it now, and see for yourself.

Thank you for reading my little review on 'Breaking Bad'. I hope you have enjoyed reading about it, and hope you continue to follow, and read more of my entries in the near future. In the meantime, take care. Oh, and also, if Vince Gilligan is reading this by any chance, by all means, please contact me, so you can teach me how to write an awesome TV show like 'Breaking Bad'.

David. Out.

The Pokemon Countdown

Hey all,

Well, after about a couple of days, I'm back. And I apologize for the lack of posts, but I have been pretty occupied with a bunch of other stuff. On a slightly different note, I would like to take up this opportunity to say, that there is absolutely nothing good on Saturday night TV. Unless you enjoy pathetic excuse's for comedy series (*cough* The Neighbors *cough*), or movies that didn't fair very well, critic review wise. But, you know what, I digress. On a completely different topic, today signifies one more week, till the launch of the new Pokemon game, 'Pokemon X and Y'. Now, I am very much excited for this game. And been waiting a long time for this. Say, 15 years waiting, ever since I got my first Pokemon game, 'Pokemon Red'. So, without further ado, let's have a little re-cap, and reminisce about the previous Pokemon games. Now, for the record, I am talking about the English versions, and not the Japanese versions. Just letting ya know now.

The first games to come out in this amazing series, were 'Pokemon Red and Blue', back in 1998. I can still remember playing 'Red', and choosing the Pokemon, Charmandar (a fire-type lizard), as my first ever Pokemon. These two games really did set the boundaries for the series. The whole concept of Pokemon, in general, is to catch all these creatures, called Pokemon. The main object of the game is to train your Pokemon through a series of RPG (Role-Playing Game) style fighting. Along the way, you can battle other people, earn badges at various Pokemon Gyms after defeating their leader, and ultimately aim to become the Pokemon Champion, by defeating the ultimate Pokemon Trainers, the Elite Four. Pokemon Red and Blue is astounding, as it introduced a world that we had never witnessed before, and brought forth not only the birth of an amazing series, but the birth of an amazing childhood, for all those who became instantly hooked. Like me.

The next couple of games to be released, were 'Pokemon Gold and Silver'. 'Pokemon Silver' is the first game that I ever bought with my own money, and is still, to this day, my all-time favourite Pokemon game. It introduced a whole new array of features. A new region, new Gyms, 100 new Pokemon bringing the grand total to 251 Pokemon, new Pokemon breeding. And most importantly, the ability for it to change from day to night, based on real-time. This means, that when the sun went down in the real world, so it did in the Pokemon world as well. All these new functions is what I love about 'Gold and Silver'. I can't think of anything else to say, except for the fact, that I miss it. Because I lost it somewhere at home. I do believe that 'Gold and Silver' is truly an amazing expansion to the Pokemon series, and is one of the best expansions.

Following is 'Ruby and Sapphire'. These two were a big hit, as we were able to experience the Pokemon world in bright clear colours. Introducing a new region, as well as a new berry feature, and the ability to engage in double battles was the big hit for 'Ruby and Sapphire'. However, to this day, I don't believe it made much of a dent as the previous games. I will give them credit for bringing to life new characters, and new locations, however, a couple of features from 'Gold and Silver' were left out. A big one was the time function, and also the reduction of the Pokemon. Yes, there was a clock that was able to be set that could function as real-time, however, there was no day and night. Also, there was very little Pokemon that were introduced from the previous games, instead it was primarily focused on the new ones. Overall though, I did admire 'Ruby and Sapphire'. Only, if there was more objectives to do after the Elite Four, then I feel it would've made up for the set backs.

The next two were, 'Diamond and Pearl'. These two were the first to introduce touch screen. Now, I have to admit, I haven't got a lot to say about these two games, as I have never played them. So, with that in mind, I won't be saying anything about them, as I have not experienced them. If you have played them, then please comment below, and tell me what you think about them.

And finally, we come to the most recent games, 'Black and White'. Well then, where to start. Same old, same old. New Pokemon, new region, yada yada yada. One big difference is the introduction of seasons, with every month passed, the seasons change (E.g.: Winter turns to Spring). One thing I dislike about this game, is some of the Pokemon, and the new villains. Some Pokemon were absolute bad-ass and awesome (Bisharp, looking at you), while some on the other hand, were absolutely ridiculous. One Pokemon was resembling a pile garbage. Quite frankly, it confused me. Was he made that way, by humans? Or was he, like all other Pokemon, around before humans? It didn't make any sense. Needless to say, he was absolute rubbish. Also, the new villains. Each Pokemon game has a bunch of new villains, who are always the bad guys (Team Rocket, Team Aqua and Magma, Team Galactic (I think)), but 'Black and White's' Team Plasma had me confused for a bit. Definitely, their background history. It took me a while to figure out that they are liberators for Pokemon, and are hell-bent on setting all Pokemon free. Like PETA. I just felt their goal, to set Pokemon free from Trainers, was slightly flawed, and that these villains needed to be more serious. Overall, 'Black and White' wasn't bad. It wasn't good, but at the same time, it wasn't bad.

Well, there is my re-cap and opinions of the previous 15 years of Pokemon gaming. Hope you all enjoyed it. And I hope you have all pre-ordered 'Pokemon X and Y' (I know I have), and if you do intend on purchasing it, you can find it at any of your local electrical/department stores. Have a lovely rest of the weekend, don't forget to set your clocks forward for daylight savings time, and stay tuned for more posts, from 'Davo's TVG Film Reviews'!

David. Out.