Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #38 (8.1)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

A strange phone call has Vinnie and Ethan wondering what in the world is going on. The list of suspects is growing, but none of them make sense. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #38 (8.1)

“Listen very carefully, I shall say this only once…”

Momentarily at a loss for words, I made no response but listened as instructed by the mysterious voice.

“You should have died in Florida. You should have become gator chow, but you got lucky somehow. Your luck won’t hold forever, though, Delarosa. You can’t outrun Fate. Someday you’ll get what’s coming to you.” Almost as an afterthought, the caller added, “Beware the Ides of March,” before hanging up.

What the hell was that supposed to mean? My brain was trying to make sense of the insane message but not doing a great job of it.

“Vinnie, who was that?” Ethan nudged me out of my temporary stupor.

“What? Oh, wrong number,” I mumbled automatically. If the caller had intended to scare me, their cryptic words had had the opposite effect—I was angry. But I was afraid if I said anything, I might frighten Sarah and Benny, and I saw no sense in doing that.

I rose from the rocking chair and stretched, pretending a nonchalance I was far from feeling. “I think I’m going to hit the men’s room before we go.” I shot Ethan a significant look. Of course he picked up on it an immediately and sprang to his feet as well.

“Good idea, me too. Be right back.”

That was intended for his sister and uncle, of course. As we turned our steps away from the others, I could hear Sarah call out something that sounded like “have fun” but I wasn’t really listening.

Once inside the men’s room, I told Ethan what the mysterious caller had said. I think he was more frightened than I was. And angry. He requested to look at my phone so I surrendered it, even as I told him, “I didn’t recognize either the number or the voice. I just thought it was a telemarketer or something.” Although why I would answer such a call I don’t know. Perhaps because it was so unexpected, and I was feeling good about things at that moment, whereas normally I would have been more skeptical.

“I’m sure it was just a prank,” I tried to reassure Ethan, but he didn’t seem to be buying what I was selling. I couldn’t blame him. The wording had been too oddly specific for it not to have been aimed at me. How many other people had almost died in Florida recently, raise your hands? That would be me.

“I wouldn’t be so sure,” Ethan said. “I’m going to call that number back and see who answers.” But no one did. Not even when Ethan switched to his own phone, in case the caller recognized my number. Still no response.

“We have to tell Anderson,” Ethan said.

I couldn’t help but frown at the idea of involving our boss. At least not until we had something more concrete to tell him. One that involved something more than a mere phone call. Maybe I was afraid he would split us up for some reason. Just me being my usual paranoid self.

“Vinnie, I don’t think it was a joke. At least, we can’t treat it that way until we know more about what is going on. Anderson can trace the number. Plus he can check on you know who and see who he’s been in contact with. Visitors or correspondents, you know?”

I knew what he meant. I also knew that, according to people at the prison where he was currently being held without bail prior to his trial, good ol’ Chip was receiving a decent amount of fan mail from the outside world. No accounting for taste.

I reluctantly nodded my agreement, and Ethan made the phone call. He quickly apprised Anderson on what had happened, and our boss told him he’d get back to us as soon as possible. In the meantime, he said, carry one and just be careful. Ethan agreed and hung up.

“Vin, don’t worry,” Ethan said. “We’ll get to the bottom of this. Between the two of us, we can handle the situation, I have no doubt.”

When he said it like that, how could I doubt him? Even so…

“We can’t tell your sister,” I said. “Or your uncle.” I didn’t want to worry them. Benny had enough on his mind with the upcoming trial. And Sarah’s plate was full as well, what with baby daddy drama and possibly making a fresh start. I saw no reason to agitate either one.

“Agreed,” Ethan said.  He pulled me in for a hug, and for just a moment I let myself relax in his warmth.

“At first I thought it was that looney tunes actress, but now…” Nothing was making sense. The clues were all over the map. And then there was the attempt on Benny’s life at the hotel. What did any of it mean?

“I suspect everyone,” Ethan said. He kissed me softly and we hurried back to rejoin the others.

to be continued

Now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

Saturday is Horror Day #76 - The Housemaid (1960), Rec 3: Genesis

 The Housemaid (1960)

Mr. Kim (Jin Kyu Kim) works at a factory, giving lessons to the workers. Unbeknownst to him, one of the young women, Kyung-hee Cho (Aeng-ran Eom) has a crush on him, despite the fact he is married and has two children. But she is scared to say anything so her bolder friend, Seon-young Kwak (Seon-ae Ko) writes a note and slips it into the piano. But his reaction is not what they expected. He tells the supervisor and Miss Kwak is suspended for three days. Never mentioning her own complicity, Kyung-chee asks to take private lessons from Mr. Kim in his home, just after he announces he is taking students. Mr. Kim and his pregnant wife have recently moved into a home that is still a work in progress.  Mrs. Kim (Jeung-nyeo Ju) is pregnant and works tirelessly at her sewing machine to help provide for her family. Mr. Kim decides they need help and asks Miss Cho if she knows of anyone. She refers another worker, Myung-sook (Eun-shim Lee).

This is when things begin to spiral. Kyung-hee, having made great strides in her lessons, finds the nerve to tell Mr. Kim of her feelings and he throws her out, but tells her to come back for the lessons, because they need the money. Kwak overhears what has happened and blackmails Mr. Kim, threatening to go to the police and accuse him of raping Miss Cho if he doesn't sleep with her. The situation goes from bad to worse when Kwak finds out she is pregnant.

There is some very interesting social commentary going on in this film, including the factory workers 

who attend the lessons in order to appear cultured. Miss Kwak might be slow but she's smart enough to seize an opportunity when she sees it, and she becomes a holy terror to the household. Mr. Kim has two children. The older, a girl who uses crutches to get around, and her younger brother. The boy is an unmitigated brat and taunts his sister cruelly at every turn. Mrs. Kim works hard but she is frail. Her husband is devoted to her, and he is trying to spare her by giving in to the blackmail of Miss Kwak.

Inevitably, something's got to give as Miss Kwak becomes bolder and bolder in her demands, terrorizing the couple. Mrs. Kim even blames herself because she wished for a new house, else none of this would have happened. The framework of the film is interesting too, beginning with a couple who read about a case in the newspaper about an employer who has an affair with his maid. As if that would happen.

Watching The Housemaid is like watching an accident as it happens right before your very eyes, one you can't look away from. I find myself still thinking about it, several days later. I'll give this film 4.5 Stars

Rec 3: Genesis

You are cordially invited to the wedding of Clara (Leticia Dolera) and Koldo (Diego Martin). Friends and family have gathered to wish the happy couple well. But unbeknownst to them, something strange has already begun when the groom's uncle is bitten at work by a seemingly dead dog that came back to life unexpectedly... and here we go again!

The third entry in this series differs slightly from the found footage format of its predecessors, but it does start prior to the start of the first two, and during them. If you'll recall from the first film, a couple clain that their dog is at the vet.  Apparently the vet has come down with the same mysterious illness as the rest of the wedding party. As the wedding guests begin to turn into zombies, the bride and groom, who find themselves separated, must find their way back to one another.

This film doesn't take itself quite so seriously as the others, but even so, it's a fun watch, as we wonder 

if the bride and groom will ever find their way back to one another.  There are some interesting secondary characters here, a mixture of drama and humor. 

I thought the film was interesting and entertaining. I give it 4 Stars/

Book Review: Bleach, Vol 71 by Tite Kubo

 

Bleach, Vol 71      

Author: Tite Kubo

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: November 7, 2017

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Supernatural/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

In a surprise move, Nemu has not only acted on her own, not waiting for instructions from her Master Mayuri, but she has openly defended him. But at what price? Captain Kyoraku attacks the Quincy Lille Barro, utilizing his ability to turn a child’s game into reality. He isn’t really surprised that Nano has kept up with him. She says she won’t leave, but he sends her to deliver a message to the others. She vows to return afterward. Hinamori is confused when Shinji doesn’t immediately offer to assist Shunsui, but he says he knows that the help is not wanted or needed, that Shunsui will be fine, and there are other fires to be put out.

Kisuke and the others run into another Quincy, one with a winged helmet. He claims they will never get past him, and he wants to take all of them on, all at once!  Ichigo runs into the Quincy who battled Grimmjow. His name is Naak le Var. Meanwhile a wounded Shunsui is adrift in his past until he is yanked awake by Nanao, who reminds him of the promise he made her mother!

And still the fight continues. Only three volumes left, barreling toward the conclusion, whatever that might be. I have to believe that all will end well, and yet I am biting my nails, fearful for Shunsui. This volume ends on a cliffhanger, of course, ala Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid involving Shunsui and Nano. Let’s hope it has a better outcome! Can’t wait for the next one!

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #37 (7.5)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Ethan's twin's comment about Roanoke has the boys wondering if she intends to move there. See what they think about that idea in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #37 (7.5)

“Roanoke is very nice,” Ethan agreed. “Vinnie and I like it there, don’t we, Vinnie?”

“Very much.” I quickly added my enthusiastic endorsement to his statement. “I think I like it even better than Richmond.” While I did enjoy living in Richmond with Ethan, Roanoke had come to feel more like home. Maybe because we lived in an actual house, and we had Benny, and we’d made some real friends, both on the police force and outside of it. While some of our other assignments had taken us to different locations around the country, these been short-term stays for the most part. Richmond and Roanoke were the only two cities where we’d spent any amount of serious time. I didn’t count the Mangler case, although we were there for a while, because we were constantly moving from place to place in pursuit of the twisted killer and never stayed very long in one spot. Honestly, if I had any say-so in the matter, I’d be more than happy to keep Florida in my rearview mirror. No offense to the residents of the state, but too many unhappy memories stemmed from being there.

“But,” Ethan continued. “You have to remember something, too, Sis.”

“What do you mean?” She gave him a baffled look.

“They can move us anytime they want. Not that I’m saying they will or anything. But if you’re considering moving up there to be closer to us, which I would be all for, you just have to keep that in mind. ”

“Oh absolutely.” Sarah’s face relaxed at Ethan’s words. “I’m not saying I plan to move there, just thinking how nice it would be to live closer to you guys. I don’t want to go back to Atlanta, to be honest, and I really don’t want to be in Imperial much longer. I love Mercy and all, but I’m sure she and her wife would appreciate having their privacy back.” She gave a little laugh. “If my thinking is out of line, or if I’m overstepping any boundaries, just tell me so—”

Without thinking, I interjected, “I think having you closer would be great!” I knew how much Ethan missed his twin and his nephew, and I couldn’t help but think he would love seeing them more. Maybe I shouldn’t have said anything, though, as it really wasn’t my place. I almost apologized for butting in until I saw Ethan’s beautiful eyes fixed on me, and his expression was so tender and loving that I knew he appreciated what I’d said. And Sarah was positively beaming.

“Vinnie, you’re so sweet, thank you!”

Ethan reached over and kissed me, and my heart swelled. If this was family, I was all for it. “He is the sweetest,” Ethan agreed, his eyes locked on mine.

“I’d have to find a job, of course. And a place to live. Daycare for Alex…”

I could read the question in Ethan’s eyes without his having to say a word, and I simply nodded my agreement. The radiant smile I received in return was almost blinding.

“You can stay with us,” Ethan offered.

“Oh, I don’t want to put you out,” Sarah protested.

Ethan turned his head and I could just imagine the look he was giving her without having to see it. She immediately backpedaled.

“Well, I mean, after everything… and you and Vinnie just got engaged. And you know… stuff.” Obviously she’d run out of legitimate reasons and was now grasping at proverbial straws.

“You are more than welcome to stay with us,” Ethan said firmly, in that no-nonsense voice I loved so much. “If you want to move to Roanoke, we’ll be thrilled to have you there. Maybe talk it over with Mom and Dad, see what they think.”

I believe he deliberately avoided mention of the baby daddy. Somehow I doubted she was in any frame of mind to consider his wishes, especially as he’d been out of the picture for so long.

“I might just have to consider Roanoke myself,” Benny said. “Especially if my favorite niece and nephew live there.” He gave us a quick wink. Hmmm, tell me you don’t like Joe Junior without telling me you don’t like Joe Junior.

Ethan looked so happy, I thought he might burst into tears. And to think that just a few short months ago, none of this would have been possible. But sometimes bad things lead to happy endings. Ethan’s mother’s stroke had ended up with Ethan bursting out of the closet, Uncle Benny’s brush with his ex had led to an opportunity for a new beginning, and the painful return of Sarah’s ex seemed to be leading to exciting new horizons for her and Alex. Win-win situation, I’d say.

Just then my phone unexpectedly rang. I wondered who that could be as I reached into my pocket. I knew that wasn’t Anderson’s ring tone, nor was it Troy’s or Brendan’s. Ethan was right here with me, so obviously not him. Who else did I know who might call me? The caller ID gave no clue. I didn’t recognize the number. Probably a telemarketer.

Before I could even get out a hello, a muffled voice said, “Listen to me very carefully. I am going to say this only once…”

What the fuck?

 to be continued

Now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

 Cia Nordwell

Book Review: Pluto, Vol 6 by Naoki Urasawa and Osamu Tezuka

 Pluto, Vol 6      

Author: Naoki Urasawa & Osamu Tezuka

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: November 17, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Sci-Fi Manga//200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Gesicht is ordered to go back and let others handle the case of Darius XIV’s attempted suicide, but Gesicht says he is too close to quit. Apparently he has a hunch…who even knew robots could have hunches? On the streets of Samarkand, he helps up a poor orphan robot child who was callously knocked over.  Gesicht goes to meet with Professor Abullah, head of the Ministry of Science. Gesicht is momentarily confused by Abullah, who says many feel that way upon meeting him. He says that he lost most of his human body during the war. Gesicht questions him about Darius, a man called Goji, and something called the Tenma chip. Abullah says supposedly the chip belonged to the world’s most advanced robot, but because the AI was so advanced, the robot could never gain consciousness. Allegedly, he’s still sleeping beneath the Persian ruler’s former palace. When Gesicht shows him a photo of a man standing in a field of flowers, Abullah says he doesn’t recognize him.

After Abullah leaves, Gesicht buys a good luck charm from a street vendor who tells him it is a charm of the great sage Goji! And then the little robot child, whose name is Muhammad Ali, tries to sell Gesicht a flower, and he tells the inspector he recognizes the man in the photo! He tells Gesicht he wants to get to be a great man, just like Sahad. Apparently, Sahad left Persia for the Netherlands in order to learn how to make the desert bloom with flowers.

Gesicht follows this new lead to New Amsterdam, where he discovers the boarding house where Sahad once lived. He speaks to one of Sahad’s professors, who has nothing but good things to say about the robot. Plus he has a tulip in a glass case that Sahad left with him with instructions not to plant it until after his return. He also speaks with a woman who owns a flower shop, who knew Sahad well. He spoke to her of his dreams, and of the flowers he cultivated, which he gave individual names. But something changed and he said he had to go home, in order to enlist to fight in the war. One day he went to his field and all the flowers were dead…all except for one…the one he had named Pluto.

Gesicht goes back to see Brau, asking about the sleeping robot, and was that even possible. Brau claims that the AI could wake if someone introduced an extreme emotion. Of course, there is no telling what sort of robot this awakened AI would be. Gesicht asks Brau where he thinks Pluto might have gone after his fight with Hercules, and he says home…his tulips home.  Meanwhile, even as an order goes out to arrest Gesicht, Professor Abullah goes to see Professor Hoffman. Gesicht receives a call that the professor has been kidnapped and he is to return immediately and he says he will but not right now…as he has just found Pluto!

Things are rapidly escalating here, as layers upon layers are being peeled back. But at what price? Has the unthinkable really occurred? Or is this just a red herring? Only three volumes to go. Real nail-biter this is. Afraid to look at what comes next, but can’t look away.

Pluto, Vol 6

Author: Naoki Urasawa & Osamu Tezuka

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: November 17, 2009

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Sci-Fi Manga//200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Gesicht is ordered to go back and let others handle the case of Darius XIV’s attempted suicide, but Gesicht says he is too close to quit. Apparently he has a hunch…who even knew robots could have hunches? On the streets of Samarkand, he helps up a poor orphan robot child who was callously knocked over.  Gesicht goes to meet with Professor Abullah, head of the Ministry of Science. Gesicht is momentarily confused by Abullah, who says many feel that way upon meeting him. He says that he lost most of his human body during the war. Gesicht questions him about Darius, a man called Goji, and something called the Tenma chip. Abullah says supposedly the chip belonged to the world’s most advanced robot, but because the AI was so advanced, the robot could never gain consciousness. Allegedly, he’s still sleeping beneath the Persian ruler’s former palace. When Gesicht shows him a photo of a man standing in a field of flowers, Abullah says he doesn’t recognize him.

After Abullah leaves, Gesicht buys a good luck charm from a street vendor who tells him it is a charm of the great sage Goji! And then the little robot child, whose name is Muhammad Ali, tries to sell Gesicht a flower, and he tells the inspector he recognizes the man in the photo! He tells Gesicht he wants to get to be a great man, just like Sahad. Apparently, Sahad left Persia for the Netherlands in order to learn how to make the desert bloom with flowers.

Gesicht follows this new lead to New Amsterdam, where he discovers the boarding house where Sahad once lived. He speaks to one of Sahad’s professors, who has nothing but good things to say about the robot. Plus he has a tulip in a glass case that Sahad left with him with instructions not to plant it until after his return. He also speaks with a woman who owns a flower shop, who knew Sahad well. He spoke to her of his dreams, and of the flowers he cultivated, which he gave individual names. But something changed and he said he had to go home, in order to enlist to fight in the war. One day he went to his field and all the flowers were dead…all except for one…the one he had named Pluto.

Gesicht goes back to see Brau, asking about the sleeping robot, and was that even possible. Brau claims that the AI could wake if someone introduced an extreme emotion. Of course, there is no telling what sort of robot this awakened AI would be. Gesicht asks Brau where he thinks Pluto might have gone after his fight with Hercules, and he says home…his tulips home.  Meanwhile, even as an order goes out to arrest Gesicht, Professor Abullah goes to see Professor Hoffman. Gesicht receives a call that the professor has been kidnapped and he is to return immediately and he says he will but not right now…as he has just found Pluto!

Things are rapidly escalating here, as layers upon layers are being peeled back. But at what price? Has the unthinkable really occurred? Or is this just a red herring? Only three volumes to go. Real nail-biter this is. Afraid to look at what comes next, but can’t look away.

Book Review: Boys Run the Riot, Vol 2 by Keito Gaku

 

Boys Run the Riot, Vol 2     

Author: Keito Gaku

Publisher: Kodansha Comics

American release date: July 27, 2021

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/LGBTQ+/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Wing is an LGBTQ Youtuber whose videos are being talked about at Ryo’s school. Elated at their first sales of Boys Run the Riot merch, Jin treats Ryo and Itsuka to a celebratory feast of burgers! He tells them they need to reach out to stores to get them to carry their line in order to boost their appeal. He arranges for a meeting with a rep from a local store, but that doesn’t go very well.

The three decide they need to get part-time jobs so they have the cash to continue to produce their merchandise. Ryo applies to a karaoke bar, and is about to get the job, but when he requests that he be treated like a boy, at first the interviewer seems to understand. But then he laughs and says that can’t happen. So Ryo ends up getting a job at a restaurant, Izakaya. Luckily the uniform isn’t gender specific. But when Ryo unthinkingly starts to undress in front of the guys, they practically shove him into the girls’ change room, where a girl named Mizuki is changing, to Ryo’s chagrin.

Ryo fits in well with the others and he likes the job. But when Mizuki asks him if he is a boy, he is suddenly uncomfortable with admitting the truth. They go out for beer after work one day, and Ryo gets to know her better and begins to relax. Some of the guys at work announce they’re having a welcome to work party for Ryo, and Mizuki agrees to go. But it turns out two of the boys have ulterior motives.

Ryo calls off sick for a couple of days after that, and meets up with Jin and Itsuka. Jin has a surprise for them. He takes them to a house where they are greeted by a girl named Tsubasa, who just happens to be the Youtuber Wing! Seriously? She introduces them to her cousin Yutaka. Turns out he was their first customer! And now Boys Run the Riot is gonna do a collab with Wing! How awesome is that?

During the course of the photo shoot, Ryo gets to know Tsubasa, and she gives him some advice. But when the video comes out, there is a huge oops moment!

I am really enjoying this series. It’s not often you see transgender stories in manga, particularly with transgender males.  The author obviously has great insight into transgender people and helps us to understand what Ryo is going through in his desire to be who he is, not who he appears to be. Gender stereotypes and misperceptions have been around forever, but now it seems as though, thanks to a more open-minded younger generation and the power of the Internet, greater knowledge is forthcoming, along with greater acceptance and understanding.

Even as we get to know and understand Ryo, Ryo is learning more about himself. Perhaps the oops moment will turn into something wonderful. Looking forward to the next volume.

Book Review: Bleach, Vol 70 by Tite Kubo

 

Bleach, Vol 70       

Author: Tite Kubo

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: July 4, 2017

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Supernatural/200 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Bazz B has worked hard to get close to Yhwach in order to kill him. But he never expected Jugo to succeed where he himself failed. When Jugo tells Yhwach there must be a mistake, the Quincy tells him that he has seen Jugo’s power, which is the same as his own – the power to share power. And now, years later,  Jugo is trying to prevent Bazz from killing Yhwach, which was the goal all along. What’s up with that?

Grimmjow takes off after one of the Quincies, leaving Ichigo and the others behind, wondering where he went. But Grimmjow ends up poisoned for his troubles. Meanwhile, Kurotsuchi and Kenpachi find themselves face-to-face with an extremely weird Quincy (coming from Kurotsuchi, that’s saying something!). Kurotsuchi attempts to keep Kenpachi from being too impetuous, but that is easier said than done. While the two captains debate how to handle this fellow, Ikkaku, Yumichika, and Nemu discuss just why they can’t interfere with their captains. Namely because they would be severely chewed out for doing so.  They seem uneasy at the idea that Kurotsuchi is about to release his rather poisonous bankai. The Quincy shows itself to be more than they realized… and so does Nemu.

Not a lot of Ichigo et al in this volume, but I suspect his time is coming soon. Only four more volumes to go! This one has more to do with Bazz B and Jugo, but mainly it’s the Kurotsuchi/Kenpachi show, which is well worth the price of admission! Watching the odd Captain of the 12^th Squad is fascinating, as he hasn’t been seen as much in these books as some of the others. But he is really brilliant, in his own quirky way, and it’s a pleasure to watch him in action… albeit, from a distance.

The volume ends on a cliffhanger, naturally. Can’t wait to see how that turns out in the next one!

 

Saturday is Horror Day #75 - Brightburn, The Belko Experiment

 Brightburn

Tori and Kyle Breyer (Elizabeth Banks and David Denman) have struggled to conceived. They want a child more than anything. So when, out of the blue, some kind of alien spaceship crash lands in their backyard, its sole occupant a baby boy, their dreams seem to have come true. Or is it their nightmares?

The couple tell their friends and family that they have adopted, and they name the child Brandon (Jackson A. Dunn) and raise him with much love on their farm located just outside the small town of Brightburn, Kansas. Kyle insists that Brandon stay out of the barn, because it's dangerous and not a place to play. But the truth is that the spaceship he arrived in is locked up beneath the barn.

Everything seems fine until about the time that Brandon reaches puberty. He seems drawn to the barn, and to whatever is hidden there, although he is discouraged from going there. When his dad gives him a little talk about puberty and some of his feelings, he misunderstands his words as having permission to do what he wants, and proceeds to terrorize a girl in his class that he finds attractive. He only succeeds in frightening her and the results during a class trust exercise are horrific.

Brandon is hearing voices from the spaceship, and he comes to understand that he is special... but not in a good way. His hidden drawings reveal his true nature, as well as his plans to take the world. The adults in his life begin to understand there is something terribly wrong with the boy, but it's too little too late as one by one they fall victim to his unusual powers...

This film was brought to us by the same guy who gave us Guardians of the Galaxy. But this superhero is not here for good. This is no Superman. This alien wants to rule the world. Creepy and effective, perhaps the message here is not to automatically believe that aliens from outer space are our friends and to be cautious at all times. I'll give this film 4 Stars.

The Belko Experiment

It's just another day at the office for the employees of the Belko Corporation as they arrive for work in their isolated high-rise corporate office building in Bogota, Columbia. But things seem a little off. There aren't as many of their co-workers as usual. And who are the strange security guards on the grounds, and what are they doing in that unused hangar? Perhaps things are not what they seem. A mysterious voice over the loudspeaker system announces that there are eighty employees in the building. They have two hours to reduce that number by thirty, and if they do not, then sixty employees will die. And to show they mean business, they kill a few for good measure.

The employees listen in stunned disbelief. Their first thought is to flee, but to their dismay the building has been shut off and escape is not possible. The head of the company, Barry Norris (Tony Goldwyn) is quick to decide they have to do as they are told and kill off thirty employees rather than lost sixty. His obnoxious crony Wendell Dukes (John C McGinley) aka the office pervert is quick to agree.  Mike Mitch (John Gallagher Jr) is one of those who disagree and say there must be a way. But it quickly becomes clear that some people think only of themselves and have no problem in committing murder.

And is there any guarantee that if they obey the rules, they will be allowed to live?

This film is about a horrendous social experiment involving human interactions under pressure while on the job. But this experiment comes with a high price, and these deaths are forever. Very interesting concept. Not surprising that the men at the top only think of themselves first but decide who will live and who will die. When the security guard refuses to give them the keys to the weapons area, they find a way around that and arm their most trusted people. You'll see some familiar faces, including Owain Yeoman, who played Benedict Arnold in Turn, Abraham Benrubi, who played Jerry on ER, and Michael Rooker of Guardians of the Galaxy and The Walking Death. John C McGinley plays an asshole well, and this is no exception. This time he's a perverted asshole. 

The ending implies that the story doesn't end there, but I see no evidence there will be a sequel. The action is fast-paced and horrifying, as co-workers are pitted against one another in a deadly game. I have to admit some of the deaths were satisfying. I give this film 4 Stars.

Book Review: Demon Slayer, Vol 17 by Koyoharu Gotouge

 

Demon Slayer, Vol 17      

Author: Koyoharu Gotouge

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: October 6, 2020

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Fantasy Manga/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

 

Shinobu and Tanjiro battle Doma, Upper Demon  #2, still reeling from the death of their kind-hearted master. Meanwhile, Zenitsu faces one who was once his senior, but now is a demon. And the new head of the Ubuyashiki family carries on as best he can, with the assistance of his younger sisters, even though he is only 8 years old!

Kaigaku taunts Zenitsu for his perceived weakness, despite not having seen him in some time. Zenitsu admits he can only do the first form, and that Kaigaku can do everything but that. Surprisingly, Zenitus doesn’t seem upset by anything this demon says or does. Perhaps he has changed in the course of his training? When Zenitsu uses a technique that Kaigaku doesn’t know, the demon is dismayed that he wasn’t taught this move, then shocked to learn it’s one that Zenitsu came up with himself! Urokodaki watches over Nezuko, waiting and hoping that she will be able to become human once again, both for her sake and to foil Muzan’s plans.

Tanjiro and Tomioka encounter Upper 3, Akaza, who is surprised to find Tanjiro still alive after their last encounter on the Mugen train. He and Tomioka are both impressed with Tanjiro’s technique development. But Akaza makes the mistake of denigrating Rengoku to Tanjiro, who remembers something that Inosuke taught him.

Tanjiro has come quite a long way since he first began his journey as a Demon Slayer! Where before he could barely face the lower demons, now he battles with the upper ones, well on his way to confront Muzan himself. Interesting back story in this volume, and I have to admit to being more impressed by Zenitsu than I was before (still like him asleep the best lol). How long before they come face to face with Muzan? Good volume, looking forward to the next one!

 

 

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

For such a short trip, this one feels like it's taking forever! The only benefit is spending time with Ethan's family. But Vinnie is still not sure they're not being stalked. See what's going on in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan! Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #36 (7.4)

We sat and rocked for a minute or two, each man lost in his own thoughts. I was trying to convince myself that Chip was not behind all our misfortunes and was halfway succeeding, when I felt Ethan’s hand on my knee. He’d slid his rocking chair next to mine, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t welcome the comfort of his touch. He didn’t say anything, but I understood everything he meant to convey through his warmth, and I appreciated that.

“So, Benny, have you given any thought about what you’re going to do once all of this is over?” Ethan asked his uncle. Benny didn’t answer right away. I glanced up to find him thoughtfully stroking his beard.

“I’ve thought of little else, to be honest,” he replied. “Before I ran into Connor, I was just basically wandering around, not putting down roots. Seeing the country, so to speak. But that shit gets old, trust me. And it’s a lonely life too.”

My heart went out to the man—he sounded so lost. When Ethan squeezed my hand, I knew he felt much the same way, which only served to reinforce how lucky we were to have each other.

“What’s your degree in?” I asked, hoping to find happier ground.

“Never actually got one,” Benny admitted with a rueful shake of his head. “Went to prison before I graduated. Not that it matters. My major back then was art history.” He snorted. “Wonder what I intended to do with that. Seemed like a good idea at the time, and I guess I had visions of curating the Met or something, but in all reality that degree and fifty cents will just barely get you a cup of coffee. And a not very good one at that.”

That was an incredibly honest observation.

“Luckily, I got the chance to do some studying while I was on the inside. I got smart and signed up for a computer program. Learned enough to keep me going when I got out, along with assorted odd jobs I picked up, depending on where I ended up at any given time. If I thought I could, I’d be more than happy to settle down and actually get a computer degree and do something worthwhile with my life.”

“So why can’t you?”

Ethan’s direct question took me by surprise. He was usually the polite one, while I was considered the mannerless lout in our relationship. But he had said just what I was thinking, before I could say it.

Benny shrugged, but made no immediate reply. A moment passed before he responded. “Maybe it’s not so much if I can do it or not, it’s just that I haven’t decided where I might want to put down roots, you know? I guess that would make a difference in what I decide to do. ”

Just then, Alex came charging around the corner with a happy whoop and a huge grin. He made a beeline for Benny, who pulled the child up onto his lap without hesitation. I glanced around nervously, but my fears were quickly allayed when Sarah herself came into view.

“Hey, I told you not to run,” she scolded her son, but she didn’t really sound angry. Probably an automatic Mom response. “Sorry, Uncle Benny,” she apologized, reaching for Alex, but Benny shook his head.

“He’s good here, it’s okay.”

Sarah bent down and kissed the top of Benny’s head, then Alex’s, before taking another rocking chair. She stretched out her legs with a loud sigh of satisfaction. “I’m not gonna argue.” She laughed.

“So, did I hear you say something about putting down roots?”  Turning serious, this question was clearly addressed to Benny. “What about Imperial? Ever think about going back? Or even Atlanta? It’s close enough to be doable.”

“I’m not sure that’s where I want to be,” Benny said frankly. He resettled himself in his chair. Alex adjusted himself accordingly. Taking the opportunity he saw, he reached for Benny’s red beard and tugged at it.

Too late, Sarah cried out, “Alex, no!”

“Doesn’t hurt,” Benny assured her. “This little fellow couldn’t hurt me if he tried, could you, Alex?”

“No,” Alex agreed, just before tugging at the hair again. I had to refrain from sniggering, and I could feel Ethan silently quivering beside me.

“Maybe someday you’ll have a beard of your own, little man,” Benny said, just before he gently removed Alex’s hand. “But that’s enough for right now, okay?”

Alex didn’t seem to mind. He turned to look at his mother as if to tell her he knew what he was doing. Benny handed him one of the brochures he must have picked up when we entered the building, and Alex seemed satisfied to examine that.

“What about you?” Ethan asked his sister. “You planning to stay with Mercy forever?”

“Of course not,” Sarah replied. I couldn’t help but notice she glanced away from him as she spoke.

“Don’t you have to get back to the museum at some point?” Ethan persisted.

“I don’t know,” Sarah waffled. Judging by her tone of voice, I could tell she wasn’t eager to pursue this particular topic of conversation. Ethan wisely let it go, even though I knew he wanted to find out what was troubling his twin. “Roanoke seems nice,” she unexpectedly added.

Was she suggesting what I thought she was? Ethan and I exchanged surprised glances.

 to be continued

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers:

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Film Review: Detective Dee: Four Heavenly Kings

 Detective Dee: Four Heavenly Kings

Empress Wu (Carina Lau) has been mistrustful of Detective Dee (Mark Chao) ever since the emperor (Chien Sheng) bestowed the Dragon Mace upon the loyal detective. The empress approaches the head of her royal guard, Yuchi Zhenjin (Shaofeng Feng), relying on his loyalty despite knowing how close he is to Dee. She questions whether should she request him to take the Mace from Dee would he do it?  He replies that should he do that, Dee would be subject to execution, his family ruined. She swears she will protect them all.

The Empress lies...

Empress Wu has brought some newcomers to court to replace Dee, claiming they have greater powers. Huan Tian (Aoyue Zhang) and his group demonstrate their abilities before the royal couple. Wu sends them to retrieve the Mace, but that is easier said than done as Dee is wily and no man's fool. In the meantime, he has been sent on a fool's errands, but he sees through this and hurries back to the Bureau when someone trips the alarm.

Yuchi is torn between his loyalty to the empress and his friendship for Dee, but Dee's faith in his friend 

never wavers. It is imperative that he figure out what is going on before something terrible happens - namely, the destruction of the Tang dynasty! And what exactly is on the Empress's agenda?

This was a really good movie, action-packed and full of intrigue and mystery, as well as magic, and a little comedy. It's easy to accept how evil the Empress is from earlier acquaintance with her. She is a very power hungry woman. But she is also human and fallible, as we discover.  I liked the interplay between the female assassin (Sichuan Ma) and Dee's right hand man Shatuo Zhong (Kenny Lin). I have to admit I missed the doctor from the last installment, but that did not detract from my enjoyment of this film..

Ancient grudges, sinister magic, spirituality, intrigue... this film has it all and then some.  I'm sad that there are no more movies with this same cast, although there appear to be others utilizing the same character.  I think I'll give those a pass. Although there may be, if the glimpses in the ending credits are any indication. If you are interested, check out the Judge Dee stories, the original inspiration for Detective Dee. I reviewed the first book on this blog already.

I'll give this film a strong 4.5 Stars

Book Review: Alice in Borderland, Vol 1 by Haro Aso

 

Alice in Borderland, Vol 1     

Author: Haro Aso

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: March 15, 2022

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Dystopian/344 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

Ryohei Arisu dreams of living a different life and doing it somewhere else. He feels as if he is an NPC in his own life, and his parents always hold him up for comparison to his accomplished brother. Ryo’s friend Chota has much the same attitude, his only concern being his obsession with girls – not that he’s ever had a girlfriend. Chota laughs almost constantly and has no serious goals in life, never taking things seriously.  Their friend Karube manages a bar, and lets Ryo and Chota have free drinks. He has ambitions. Someday he wants to own a ranch in Australia and chase sheep.

One night, Ryo wishes for a huge earthquake to happen or some event where people turn into zombies. Just something. Anything that isn’t what they have now. Feeling restless, he decides they should go somewhere else. Since the trains have stopped running, they’ll have to walk. After a while, too tired to take another step, they decide to rest in a train station. From somewhere nearby they spy fireworks someone is shooting off. At four in the morning? Why? But then there is a blinding flash of light…

When they wake, they find themselves covered in dust! Heading outside, they discover everything is not only deserted, but overgrown, abandoned even, and much of the food they can find is rotten. What is going on here? There is no sign of anyone anywhere. But rather than feeling alarmed, Ryo and Chota are elated! Perhaps this is the paradise they’ve dreamed of? No one to tell them what to do or when to do it. If they look carefully, they can find some edible food. That’s not too bad, right? But suddenly they hear something. Are there other people after all? Drawn to the sound, as they are standing there, looking confused, a girl walks out from the restroom, grumbling.  When she sees them, she sighs and says they are better than nothing, and she doesn’t have a lot of choice. What does that even mean? Pegging them as newcomers, she says something about an arena. Ryo and Chota decides this sounds dangerous and want to leave, but Karube has moved in the other direction. The girl warns him not to cross over the line, but it’s too late. She tells them they’re in the game now.

Apparently the guys have managed to land in a futuristic time when survival depends on playing certain games, which are strictly structured and timed, with varying degrees of difficulty as well as rewards. The first game they find themselves in has to do with drawing fortunes. How hard can that be? They are about to find out.

This is an interesting start to what I assume will be some kind of play on Alice in Wonderland. But here, the stakes are high, as in life or death high. Sometimes you have to cooperate to win, but sometimes it’s every man for himself. Ryo is definitely an anti-hero, not your usual protagonist. I have to believe that he and Chota and Kyube will undergo some life-altering situations that will make or break them. These games are not for fun. Perhaps they will awake at some point, as Alice did, to find it was all a dream. That remains to be seen. Look forward to volume two.

 

 

Saturday is Horror Day #74 - Trollhunter, The Grudge 4: The Untold Chapter

 Trollhunter

Johanna (Johanna Mørck) and Thomas (Glenn Erland Tusterud) are film students at a college in Norway. A series of unexplained mysterious bear killings leads to their discovery of a man they suspect is behind the deaths. But Hans (Otto Jespersen) is no ordinary hunter, and bears are not his game. It's his job to control the troll population of Norway and keep people safe from them. Looks like Johanna and Thomas are about to film the movie they never dreamed of...

I have to admit I was intrigued when I saw the trailer. Trolls are not your typical movie villains, although popular in Scandinavian culture. This is another found footage film. If you watch the movie, you'll see why. The special effects are pretty amazing. Sometimes it's hard to believe there aren't really such creatures roaming the planet. They looked pretty damn real.

The students are both dedicated and brave...braver than me. I'd have been gone after the first sighting, I 

have to admit. Those trolls are terrifying. The movie is fast paced and well filmed. I was curious to see what else the director has done. To my surprise, I found he directed The Autopsy of Jane Doe, with Brian Cox and Emile Hirsch, which I saw and thoroughly enjoyed. I don't believe I reviewed it, so maybe I'll have to watch it again. I think I'll give Trollhunter 4 Stars.

The Grudge 4: The Untold Chapter

Fiona Landers (Tara Westwood) hurries home to the US from her job in Tokyo because her family needs her. Little does she know she's bringing a curse along with her.

Okay, that's the short version. This is how they continue the series, although the curse was already brought to Chicago in the film before this, but that isn't brought up. This film takes place over three different timelines, which eventually intersect, much like the original film. But if you don't know this, it makes it hard to follow. I finally just looked it up on Wikipedia so I'd know what was going on.

Despite some of the people involved, such as Demian Bechir, John Cho, and Lin Shaye, this film didn't cut it for me. I didn't find it scary, rather tedious. Makes you wonder why are you still making these films? It's only an hour and a half, feels longer. I'll give it a grudging 2 Stars, basically for Demian and John and Lin. Watch at your own peril.