Transitioning: Yay/Nay for Glee 4x03, "Makeover"

Blaine is doing a Rachel. It's fitting, since he was deemed as the New Rachel by Artie two episodes ago. He's decided to join all the clubs and do all the things, but instead of it being for yearbook-related reasons like we saw with Rachel's quest for photographic 'immortality' in season 1, he's trying to keep himself busy and distracted from his loneliness. Everything he does, as he realizes by the time he's secured the student council presidency, is for Kurt, who isn't there to experience it with him.

Kurt, finally, has gotten something he's worked hard for: the internship at Vogue.com. And he's amazing at it (which we all knew beforehand, but Isabelle is discovering). He's come to the right place. Burt and Blaine knew it all along.

Meanwhile, Rachel's still molding her new self, step by step. First, it was attitude. Then, it was confidence (her attempts at being sexy, followed by the inevitable marking out of Finn's name). Now, it's her outward appearance. Like he did before, Kurt leads the makeover, which is successful. Gone are the days of the reindeer sweater. Rachel admits to liking her new self. Everyone rejoices.

Brody's right in that Rachel's makeover is from the inside out. He's definitely a voice of reason for the New York Rachel.

Brittany's still looking for her groove. Sam might be, too, though I'm not sure what exactly he's looking for.

There seems to be a pattern.

I totally agree with Leaky News that this is a transitional/set-up episode. (And from what I've heard about 4x04, it's going to be full of Big Stuff*, so it's good there's a lot of set up this week.) It's a solid episode, even without a lot of emotional upheavals or complications. Also, can we talk about how awesome the music is this season?!

Quick links of interest for this episode:

• Two really interesting things from Kurtcountertenor, one of my fave Glee tumblrs: Sam, Blaine, and a bowtie, and Kurt's infamous brooch. 
• Deconstructing Glee and thoughts on Blaine's makeover, as well as everyone else's. (See also: This thing about flying, with Kurtcountertenor's additions.) 
• A post from Letters from Titan about Cassandra and Isabelle (but mostly Kurt) that blows my mind.

With that, on to the Yay/Nay.

Yay: The look Blaine gives the two superhero sidekicks who are battling one another. So perfect.

Yay: How is it that we've gone this long without a Blaine voiceover?! Paired with an amazing version of one of my favorite '80s songs...PERFECTION. *cries happy tears*

Yay: Kurt and Blaine sharing popcorn through Skype. It was cute and probably one of the most ingenious surprises this episode.

Yay: I AM SO HAPPY THAT KURT GOT THE INTERNSHIP. My heart swelled a bit. No joke. I'm also really interested in his answer for the "Where do you see yourself in 5 years" question.... Isabelle's very right in encouraging Kurt as a dreamer.

Yay: I really missed Brittany and Artie interacting. I couldn't stop laughing about the robot thing.

Nay: The Schuest-ometer was high this week. Mr. Schue, as always, was all over the place. I think I might have done a fist pump when Jake brought up the fact they should be preparing for Sectionals. Why doesn't he actually let the students put something together since he's run out of ideas?

Yay: Everyone's reactions to Blaine's claim that the election wasn't a popularity contest. If what he said was true, then Kurt would have won last year. OF COURSE IT'S A POPULARITY CONTEST. It's high school, for crying out loud. (Is this a Dalton-esque mentality?) As much as I wish he was right...

Nay(ish)?: Sam and Brittany's budding friendship. I like it, but I don't quite get it yet...is that weird?

Yay: Have I mentioned how much I love Sam's impressions?

Yay: Brittany knows what she's doing. And Artie is totally right about her.

Yay: "Celebrity Skin" was AWESOME.

Yay: I really like Isabelle. What a difference from Cassandra, though. (This is a good thing.)

Yay: Stoner Brett needs to be in ND for the sole reason of his awesomeness.

Yay: Hummelberry breaking into various New York establishments for good reasons (and doing it the in-the-middle-of-the-night college way). The video they made with Isabelle was lovely.

Yay: All of the character stuff for Blaine and set up for the inevitable angst between him and Kurt. Holy canoli. My heart hurt for both the entire episode. The second time we see Kurt and Blaine skype is heart-wrenching but so well-handled.

Yay: The Rachel/Brody NY montage. Brody is still honorable this week. And I love that he admitted to being a fan of Ace of Base (me too!).

Yay: I really like how the Skype chats are functioning thus far. It's a nice tie between Ohio and everywhere else. On a grander scale, the more I see the balance between the Lima and New York settings, the more I like it. It's still working for me (and it reminds me of the way Dalton was handled back in season 2). We'll see how things go as the season progresses.

Nay: Are we ever going to see Tina this season? All we've had is the short-lived Snotty Version, and that was two episodes ago.

Yay: The debate was the funniest sequence in the entire episode. It was the perfect combination of Sue, Artie, Brittany, Sam, Blaine, and Stoner Brett that sealed it for me. This also goes for the bit where Becky is not in the mood for a xylophone flourish.

Yay: Blaine: "...Telling anyone what they can or cannot put into their hair is disgusting. It's the first step towards tyranny, my friends. Next thing you know, they'll start burning books. And then they'll probably start burning people, too." Brittany: "That's a lie." BEST.

Yay: I love that Rachel wanted to cook for Brody, and I LOVED the stories they share over dinner.

Interesting: Even with all the reinvention, Rachel is still trying to keep "[her] machine well-oiled" and her performance on form. Immediate flashback to her morning routine in season one...Also interesting to note is that Brody does the same thing.

Yay: The Blaine/Sam friendship could be interesting.

Finn arrives just as the episode is closing, the signal that the dreaded 4x04 is upon us. And so it begins.



*I'm going to be very thankful when 4x04 airs, because I feel the stress about it is starting to wear on my poor heart. Sigh.

Brittany's Grand Comeback: Yay/Nay for Glee 4x02, "Britney 2.0"

Brittany is trying to get her groove back, seemingly confident in herself as she begins senior year for the second time. But something is off: the summer vacation wasn't the best, her voiceover is outside of her head, she's been yelling at shrubs, everyone is baffled by her behavior, and she's stripped of her high pony. She's trying to adjust to the new groove; she's beginning to realize how crucial her grades are, Santana is off at college, and Brittany doesn't know how to deal with it all.

Rachel, of course, is continuing to find her new self, continuing from last week. Cassandra's current assertion is that Rachel isn't sexy enough to dance a tango. So, Rachel attempts to be the kind of sexy she thinks she needs to be. This hasn't really worked for her before; Kurt's attempts to sabotage the makeover he gives her in season 1--a la Sexy Sandy from Grease--was the first, and it failed. In the first Britney episode, Rachel finds confidence in her own Britney fantasy, but goes about it the wrong way with the wrong attitude and a short skirt and pigtail braids that didn't really suit her. And though her determination to prove her sex appeal once again is encouraged by Kurt--under very different circumstances and without ulterior motives--she dives into it, determined to prove herself worthy.

And though Finn isn't around this time to assure her of her unique kind of sexiness, Brody assures her that she is sexy just as she is. She shrugs it off and goes ahead with it, and, of course, it backfires a little. Brody warned her. He knows what's going on.

This time around, the Britney tribute is less about the music and more about the characters. It works, this fabulous focus on the characters and their real issues. It's clear when watching the episode, but it's nice to hear that the writers planned for it to be that way. (The article in the link gave me really high hopes for the rest of the season, and it made me happy to know that they are trying to bring it back to what it was.) (Two other fabulous articles/analyses of interest concerning this episode include this one from Letters From Titan concerning the theme of scrutiny, and this intruiging look on the characters and conflict this episode from Deconstructing Glee.)

The good vibe from the season premiere is still there this week, and if it continues to be there past episode seven, I'll be happy--season three started off strong, and then started to get messy about that point.

Yay: Brittany's arch this episode is lovely. Strong, strong character development this week for her, however small it was. That last shot of her, devastated, made my heart hurt. (Set up for conflict with her and Santana, perhaps?)

Nay: Here's how the lead-in to Womanizer should have gone (or at least, something like it), to avoid the obvious and slightly awkward set up:

School hallway. Marley enters, notices Jake talking to Tina, and stares a little too long. Unique enters from opposite, sees Marley staring at Jake.

UNIQUE: I know that look. And girl, no.

MARLEY, clearly startled:  What are you talking about? 

Marley tries to come off as nonchalant, but Unique knows better.

UNIQUE: I know you have a thing for Jake, but he's not worth it.

And so on. She can mention the thing about new girls sticking together, then talks about how Jake's been going from girl to girl, only been there a short time, yadda, yadda, yadda, and then they start the song. The set up in the episode was too obvious, and wasn't really working for me. I don't really believe that Marley would have admitted her crush on Jake so easily. If you're a 15/16 year old girl in high school, one of the last things you'd freely admit to was your number one crush. At least, I didn't.*

Yay: While I'm still hesitant to like him too much, Brody was really cool this week. I thought his joke about doing 200,000 crunches was cute.

Nay: I want Puck back for longer than just a minute or two. I know he was only supposed to be there briefly, but I wanted him to stick around and be awesome. I miss the graduated ND members a lot, and I'm eager to see them come back as the season progresses.

Yay: I really like how Sam figured out Brittany's plan. (The map he drew for her was awesome.) There was something really special about that scene with the two of them in the auditorium. Also, I wonder if Sam actually uses a compass to get around...

Yay: I LOVED Kurt and Rachel's new place, and I can't wait to see what they do with it. I loved that they were riding bicycles around inside. Simply perfect. I adored their conversation** over dinner, and it felt really natural.

Yay: I feel like Cassandra is going to get more and more interesting every episode. One of my favorite scenes in the episode is where Rachel goes to apologize to her and they talk about second chances in the real world. (Can we talk about how INCREDIBLE Kate Hudson is?)

Interesting: Joe was singing the song about threesomes with Sam and Tina. (Also, "3" was my favorite song this week. All three of them sounded incredible, and it reminded me how much I love Samuel Larson's voice. He's awesome.)

Yay: The Schuest-ometer was fairly low this week. This is good. Any time I don't have to be angry with Mr. Schue is the best time. Also, I'm really surprised that he was okay with--and was the one who suggested--doing Britney Spears, especially because he was so against it the first time around....

Yay: I'm really proud of Rachel for not kissing Brody. This shows growth. (Even if they are meant to date at some point, it's much too soon.)

Yay: SO MUCH EMOTION when Brittany almost shaved her head and then proceeded to beat up Jacob Ben Israel.

On The Fence: I'm not sure how I feel about Jake yet. I'm interested to see more with him in coming episodes. I don't hate him--there just isn't enough there yet for me to quite get him. I feel that so far, we've just been told about who he is rather than shown.

Yay: BUT... I loved how Jake stood up for Marley's mom. Cool points.

Yay: Kurt's right. Cake is awesome. Also, did anyone else notice how at home both he and Rachel are in New York? Hummelberry was meant to be there. *warm fuzzies*

Yay: Kiki and that ridiculously huge Lima Bean cup. SO FUNNY OMG.

Yay(ish): I really like that Rachel is taking charge of navigating life in New York without going crazy like she usually does. And I loved how her flub-up with insulting Cassandra provided some great conflict and a little character development for her this episode. I just hope that she doesn't lose it. You know?

Yowza: "Gimme More" was a deliciously disastrous trainwreck. Lip-syncing was a terrible idea.

Yay: "Everytime" was the best way to end the episode. (I really, really love Marley and I want her to be happy.) That last shot of Rachel painting over Finn's name, followed by the shot of the flowers....


Until next time.



*There was one instance in elementary school when some of the girls in my class found out about the boy I liked (i.e. I told them, which was a stupid move on my part), and then they told him, and then things got embarassing.......Needless to say, I only told two or three of my closest friends about crushes after that.

**Though I still think that Kurt should focus on fashion and forget about NYADA. I mean, I think he'd be great at both, but he has such a creative side.....

The New Glee Club: Yay/Nay for Glee 4x01, "The New Rachel"

The first thing we see in the season four premiere episode is Rachel getting told that she sucks. It's oddly reminiscent of Sandy Ryerson's assertion back in season one, when Rachel is separated from the Glee club for the first time. This time, though, instead of running off to cry in the bathroom, Rachel tries to push past the negativity from her new dance teacher, Cassandra July, and takes it with a strange yet nervous poise, even when she has been dubbed "Little Miss David Schwimmer."And thus, we see the beginning of a change in Rachel Berry. The New Rachel, indeed.

I don't know what exactly I was expecting from this episode, but it certainly wasn't what was presented. The tone is different, and it's apparent almost immediately. The absurdity is still there, as is the humor. Jacob Ben Israel is still the gossip center of McKinley. Tina has a freshman assistant who brings her cupcakes and bananas. Sam does a fabulous Taylor Lautner impression. Artie still likes judging people directing. But as the episode and the race to find "The New Rachel" progresses, it's clear that there is a newness that everyone is trying to reach: "The New New Directions," as is written on the marker board in the choir room. Reinvention. Identity, both false and true. A humble, serious side that hasn't really been around since season one or even the beginning of season three. The show has grown up along with its characters, and its heart is bigger than ever.

In the past, I've handled these yay/nay posts with bullet points, and I think, for the most part, I will stick with that format. I wondered though, after seeing this episode, if I might try formatting it a little differently as the season wears on, to be determined as each new episode airs. We'll see.

So. On to the Yay/Nay.

Nay: New Directions' attitude as they try to understand and navigate their newfound popularity, both in making fun of others and fighting to be the lead star when ND has never functioned the same way Vocal Adrenaline was. Not to mention forgetting who they are. Tina especially. I was glad to see them overcome this attitude by the end of the episode; and as much as it bothered me, I love how it functioned. It carried over nicely from the "Props" episode in season three. But I don't think I could stand seeing Tina's diva or Blaine being bossy and unaccepting for longer than an episode--that's just not who they are as people. As the cliche goes, with great power comes great responsibility. (And now I want to watch Spiderman...)

Yay: Brody. It's early, yet, but he seems cool. It's likely he's not who he seems, however, as we've seen before with Jesse St. James. I'm keeping my eye on him. He's the first to recognize that Rachel is changing.

Yay: I LOVE how Unique refers to herself in the third person. I can definitely see why Wade was so keen to be her, completely. She is incredible.

On the fence: Mr. Schue this entire episode. He didn't let Jake finish, but allowed Marley an entire song at auditions. He chastised the Glee club for forgetting their strengths as a team of unique, talented, amazing individuals, yet pointed out Marley's "star quality." Why is he always all over the place?

Yay: The honesty and emotional weight in Kurt's situation in this episode. As Blaine points out, Kurt is stuck. He's working at the Lima Bean, preparing for classes at the local community college, but something isn't right--it isn't where he's meant to be. His destiny is bigger than what Lima can provide. Even Burt, the best dad to ever be on television, points out that Kurt is meant to be New York. (I wonder about Finn and am eager to see what's happening with him in future episodes--Finn felt stuck, too.)

Yay: Kurt's enthusiasm for the auditions and maintaining the philosophy that ND has so carefully built up over the last three years. Kurt has been a part of ND since day one. He has had his moments, but he still remembers what the club is about, even when everyone else has seemed to have forgotten it. I wish Tina, another one of the original members, would remember that. Artie kinda does.

Yay: Cassandra July. She intrigues me. Deconstructing Glee has some brilliant thoughts on her character. (DG also points out how crazy it was that people who auditioned for ND didn't all get chosen. I totally agree.)

Yay: HUMMELBERRY IS BACK, and Burt is awesome. *warm fuzzies*

Yay: I absolutely adore both Marley and her mother. (Has there ever really been a character like Marley on Glee so far?) She has a big heart, she seems humble, and she is not afraid to stand up for others. Marley's mom is a sweetheart. (Every scene...MY HEART.) I am excited to see Marley's arch this season.

Question: I am super curious to find out how and why Jake knows about Puck, but Puck doesn't know about Jake. (Jake, in general, is very interesting to me.)

Yay: "Chasing Pavements" was the absolute best song this episode could have ended with.

Yay: Rachel dealing with her homesickness and distress from her first week at NYADA. Beautiful character development.

Nay: I didn't care much for "Call Me Maybe." I mean, it sounded okay--but just okay. (Mostly I didn't like to see Unique, Blaine, Tina, and Brittany pushing each other around.)

Yay: BUT... I LOVED Blaine's "ta da" thing he did right at the end of the number. Heehee.

Yay: As much as it annoyed me, I was fascinated with Blaine's attitude this episode. This should be an interesting season for Blaine, methinks.

Yay: The Imagine Dragons Flash Mob. *adds "flash mobs" to this season's wishlist*

Nay: Everyone discouraging Wade from being Unique.

Interesting: Kitty used "garçon" and Brittany used "merci" when talking to Kurt. Puck has used some French in previous episodes.

Yay: I don't think Brittany meant what she said about Marley's mother in a mean way; she was just being Brittany.

Nay: I did miss the other graduated seniors this episode. The dynamic without them is so, so different. (But I'm very glad that the split narrative thing seems to be working so far. We'll see as the season progresses.)

Yay: Stoner Brett is the best.

Interesting: Everyone in Lima, according to Marley's mother, thinks that Rachel's headed straight to Broadway. It's interesting how this belief is juxtaposed with Rachel's current reality in feeling like a failure while trying to adjust to life at NYADA. And I think it's also very truthful to the experience of living in a small town, especially in the Midwest. I wonder how the other NYADA hopefuls we saw from season 3 are faring. Are they in a similar position to Rachel, or are they living their fantasy?

Yay: I'm with Blaine on this one: Kurt doesn't need NYADA. There are other paths to achieve what he's destined to achieve. (Fashion, perhaps? From what has been revealed about Sarah Jessica Parker's character...)

Yay: I'm so glad that ND recognizes how awful Kitty and the rest of the popular kids are being.

Interesting: "Order's been restored." Everyone snaps out of their false identity, their bad attitudes evaporated. And then, of course, the slushies are back. Also, did anyone else notice that Rachel's the only one wearing red in her dance class?

Yay: New Directions is actually rehearsing. A performance that's still in the works: unperfected, raw. They're rebuilding.

Glee Season 4 Wishlist

So. The new season of Glee starts tonight. I've been careful not to spoil myself too much with information that has been released. I felt like I was much too spoiled for the majority of season three, so my new season's resolutions include the determination to stay away from things that could ruin my enjoyment of watching each new episode.

Many of the things I talked about before season 3 still stand, for the most part, especially if it wasn't addressed. This year, though, I'm more worried than I thought I'd be. The first half of season 3 was really good. The last half, while enjoyable, however, fell into something of a confusion similar to how things were going for the first five episodes of season 2. There were things that were beautifully done, and things that weren't handled well, not to mention the few stray random things that just didn't sit well. With that being said, I think season 3 was much stronger than season 2 was.

But enough about that. On to the wishlist.

Story, Plot, and Characters

I definitely want them to continue with story and character development, as they tried to maintain throughout last season. I think they are most successful when the conflict lies within the characters and their respective relationships and grand plans rather than random bits of "whimsy" that don't necessarily make sense within the grand scheme of things.

But, anyway.

• Please, oh please, no more dumb, annoying proposals and engagements, unless it actually makes sense within the development of the characters and their relationships. Will and Emma are fine, but I just want them to show the wedding and be done with it. I wasn't too keen on the Finn/Rachel engagement thing that they carried through the last half of season 3. It didn't carry them further forward; it only brought Rachel back five steps and left Finn even more confused than before about what his real dream was. My opinion is that it was a grand disservice to their characters and their relationship. 
• I want Finn to find something that will make sense as a path for him. The whole acting thing was crazy. That's not his passion. And has it been that? I mean, really? He needs to find a niche. (And I don't think joining the military is going to help...)
• I LOVE the crazy episode scenarios, even if they seem a little random. The Christmas special, the "Props" episode where they switch bodies, the mattress commercial, Fondue for Two--there's just something so special and silly and wonderful when these scenarios pop up. And it's so Glee. 
• On the other hand, I absolutely love the normal, true-to-life scenarios, and the show has proven that they handle them really well. The yearbook photos from Season 1, the anti-prom attempt in Season 3, Kurt and Rachel's heart-to-heart after they see the NYADA hopefuls, the beautifully-handled conflict when they put on West Side Story, bits and pieces of the class presidential race, Tina and Rachel driving to talk to Carmen, Artie encouraging Quinn as she attempts to reach the top of the handicapped ramp, Kurt trying to cheer Blaine up with the stuffed animal won at Six Flags etc. These moments are when the show feels the most truthful. It's the little things, you know? 
• I want Lauren Zizes back on the show. 
• More Sam impressions. More Unique. More Rory. 
• I'm eager to see Blake from the Glee Project on the show, but I have yet to see the season finale for GP, so at this point, I'm not totally sure what his character is going to be. 
• Slight spoiler: the first episode for this season is called "The New Rachel." I'm not sure how I feel about this, and will likely return to the subject in the 4x01 Yay/Nay segment in a few days.
• I just really want this season to be successful. I'm excited to see how New Directions functions as, basically, a brand new club. The vibe is going to be interesting, and I'm super excited to see how they handle the story lines with the characters so spread out. (My worry is that this will fail; I don't want anyone to be forgotten or overlooked. It could get very messy.)

The Song Wishlist

I did read one thing that said they'd be doing "Don't Speak" by No Doubt which makes me SUPER HAPPY, but I'm worried I will be disappointed. (When they did one of my favorite songs ever, "In My Life" by The Beatles, I was elated...and then I heard their version and wanted to cry because it was mediocre. I can't listen to it to this day. I was so, so disappointed.)

I also hear they're doing "It's Time" by Imagine Dragons. *fist pump*

In addition to the songs I listed last season, here are some of the songs I hope them to include this time around.

• "Everytime," one of my favorites from Britney Spears. They're doing another Britney episode. I don't know if this is one of the songs they're doing or not. *fingers crossed*
• I wonder how they'd handle a Disney-themed or '90s boy band episode...???
• Spice Girls. Kurt and Rachel mentioned it in season 3. I can't unthink it, and that's good because I really want them to do one of their songs. 
• Speaking of '90s songs, something by Alanis Morissette. 
• "Virtual Insanity" by Jamiroquai. And I think it would be really cool for them to try recreating the video. With Artie (in dream dance sequence?) or Joe Hart singing of course. (Samuel did wonders with "Stereo Hearts.")
• Any song by the All-American Rejects. Particularly "Another Heart Calls" or "Kids In The Street."
• Have they done anything by ELO? Can that happen? (See also: The Cars.)

Season 4 is going to feel so very different. But hopefully in the best way possible. Until the next Yay/Nay. 

One of Those Cliche End of 2011 Posts...

I think this year was one of the only years that I slept soundly Christmas Eve. I woke up once during the night when I heard the ringing of a bell, and though I knew it was not what I thought it was, there was a brief moment in which I wondered if, after all those years, I'd finally had some kind of evidence of Santa Claus. The semi-concious mind is a fascinating thing.

A lot has happened in the last year. I became a proud godmother. I have settled into the Tiny Blue Room. I read some of my poetry in Pittsburgh, PA, where Jessica, Kelsey, Laura and I hung out with other English majors, basked in all things English-y, and ate sandwiches topped with french fries. I discovered a lot about drawing and what it means to me personally and in my work. I've thought a lot about the future, and in the process learned a lot about myself and how I want to live my life. I went to see the final HP movie with my sister and my best friends. I was sorted into Ravenclaw on Pottermore. I tried my hand at nonfiction and found another mode of expression that I connected to, learning many things about myself in the process. I completed the requirements for both my French minor and English major. I am three art classes away from graduation. And I started this blog.

I have a lot of thoughts. But now is not the time.

Favorite Books Read in 2011

• Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
• The Sky Is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick

The Jury Is Still Out Award 2011

• Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins (Thoughtbox coming soon...)
• I Kissed A Girl, 3x07 of Glee

Favorite Glee Episodes Aired in 2011

• Silly Love Songs 2x12
• Born This Way 2x18
• Prom Queen 2x20
• I Am Unicorn 3x02
• Asian F 3x03
• The First Time 3x05

The Television Cool Point Award 2011

• Every single episode of Modern Family, one of my favorite shows ever. 
• The First Time, for many reasons.

Favorite Movies 

• Super 8
• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2
• Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

Music (does not mean it has to have been released this year...)

• Florence + The Machine, "Ceremonials"
• Alanis Morissette, "Jagged Little Pill"
• Madonna, "Madonna"
• Lady Gaga, "Born This Way"
• Coldplay, "A Rush of Blood to the Head"
• Panic! At The Disco, "Vices and Virtues"
• Freelance Whales, "Weathervanes"
• Jessie J, "Who You Are"
• Adele, both "19" and "21"

See you in 2012. I'm off to knit and continue with my Glee marathon to ring in the New Year.

Quick Thoughts, Glee 3x08 "Hold On To Sixteen"

THIS WEEK. (More soon. But for now...)

Linkage: A really intriguing theory from Letters From Titan concerning a possible Blaine backstory, as well as Deconstructing Glee's response. This analysis has some really valid points, and it kind of blows my mind. But while I can see this as a possibility, I don't necessarily think it's going to happen. I saw Blaine's reaction to Sam's suggestion as similar to his reaction to Kurt telling him what happened at Nationals--while Blaine is very comfortable with his sexuality, he also feels there is a time and place for it. You know? It's "professionalism." Finally, a few more thoughts from DG on the episode, some really beautiful thoughts on Blaine's character development from Caroline of "be you and hold on to it." One thing I am absolutely positive of is how much more I adore Blaine this season than in Season 2--and I'm much more invested in Blaine's character now he's at McKinley.

• "I also started the Dalton branch of Fight Club, which I obviously can't talk about." OMG. DYING. See?!
• "You smell like Craig's List."/"Oh my God, it's the Gerber Baby!" KURT YOU ARE MY FAVORITE. 
• I don't think Brittany was ever that invested in the Troubletones--she misses New Directions too much. 
• Sam's back! *does happy dance* I was talking with Alisha about it earlier this evening, and we both agree that he seems different from when we last saw him at the end of Season 2. I'm interested to see where s3 takes him. 
• I absolutely LOVED Sam's reaction when he realized that it was Rachel holding out the dollar. 
• While she is mostly irritating, I am still intrigued by Quinn's storyline this season. Though it seemed pretty tied up by the end of the episode, I feel like the writers have a little more up their sleeve. 
• Is it too much to see what's on the inside of Blaine's locker? I just want to know. I'm a sucker for detail. 
• I absolutely hate Sebastian. And Grant Gustin plays him so well. 
• I was furious at Sebastian's "gay face" comment.
• I love that Kurt and Blaine have rant sessions at the Lima Bean.
• You know, as much as I'm not a fan of country music, "Red Solo Cup" was a lot of fun. 
• New Direction's Jackson song set for Sectionals was probably the best competition performance thus far--and my new favorite. I'm thinking the Booty Camp paid off. 
• I'm so psyched that most of New Directions had some sort of solo at Sectionals. I am really glad that ND was able to succeed as they did despite Rachel's absence. They work best as a whole. 
• I loved Rachel's bouts of wisdom this week. 
• Mike and Tina this week: no words. <3
• Harmony delightfully terrifies me. 
• Artie cracks me up. 
• Sooooooo much character development for Blaine.... 
• I loved watching background!Kurt this week. <3 
• MY HEART. SAM AND MERCEDES.
• The image of Santana following Finn around with a tuba is incredibly hilarious to me. 
• The Troubletones' performance was AMAZING. Santana and Brittany dancing!!!! And that shot of the group in the empty auditorium was really powerful for me. 
• "We Are Young" = off the hook amazing...

More later. Off to read for French. 

Quick Thoughts, Glee 3x07, "I Kissed A Girl"

Okay. So as soon as the semester's over, I'm going to go more in depth with all the episodes I haven't been able to talk about yet. But for right now, this'll have to do.

I have a lot of love for last night's episode--and I am a firm believer that this season is kick-ass and each episode gets progressively better--but there are a few things I wasn't sure about among the things I adored.

First, linkage: Some really incredible thoughts on Santana and Beiste in relation to feminism, as well as a few more thoughts from Deconstructing Glee responding to Dorothy Snarker's thoughts, also regarding similar issues. And then, of course, SillyGleek guest-blogging on DG with what is essentially an open letter to the characters as of the end of the episode. Preach!

Some quick thoughts:

• I am a firm believer that despite the issues brought up in the first two links (with which I agree), Finn had his heart in the right place with the lesson. Finn is not an inconsiderate (insert adjective here) person. (This also goes for his outing of Santana.) He's 17/18 years old. He has flaws. I don't expect him to understand everything about the world at this point. He's slowly learning, and that's all I can hope for. Don't forget about how far he's come since Season 1. 
• Mike Chang is love. He was my favorite in the voting booth montage. 
• What the bloody hell is up with Puck's mohawk?! Did anyone else notice that it's long enough to part at the crown of his head?!
• I can't really wrap my head around Cooter and Sue's "history." Did anyone else find that out of the blue, or am I just slow at putting the pieces together? Mostly I'm frustrated because Coach Beiste a) deserves some kind of happiness but b) Cooter was kind of a douche to her and also because c) the points so beautifully stated in the tumblr post I linked to above. Don't let Beiste lose her awesomeness. Please. I beg you. 
• Mercedes....I pine for the time you and Kurt were BFFs. (I do think it's interesting that there is a kind of shift in the relationship, though. Friendships will change over the years.)
• SHELBY. WHY? SERIOUSLY. This is so messed up. *throws up hands* And while we're on the subject...
• PUCK. WTF IS GOING ON WITH YOU? And most especially, WHY DID YOU TELL QUINN?! UGH. Things are going to get worse. Remember Pacey Witter from Dawson's Creek? This is serious stuff.  
• I don't think I could ever hate Brittany in a million years. 
• Santana was especially cruel this episode. I wanted to smack her for her reaction to Kurt and Blaine singing to her. But...
• I also wanted to punch the guy who wanted to make her "normal." Society is messed up. If one considers the way that Kurt was bullied and mistreated, the way the world (or in this case, WMHS) is treating Santana is both similar and different, but just as awful. I was disgusted. Not cool, society. 
• Also, the scene in which Santana comes out to her abuela made me want to bawl my eyes out. I just want Santana to be happy and have the support she needs from the ones she loves. :(
• Rachel can be very frustrating sometimes, but I still love her as a character, and I was so proud that she admitted to Principal Figgins that she was the one to stuff the ballot box. 
• Kurt's voiceover in the voting booth: "If I lose, I don’t have a chance of getting into NYADA. It’s not fair. The difference between my dreams coming true and managing a Sonic Burger depends on how many people check a stupid box." This killed me. Sonic Burger... *cries* I hope you get in. And I agree with SillyGleek's guest post: you have a whole bunch of kick-ass credentials. Don't give up!! (More on this and Finn's similar concerns about the future at a later date. This is an important thread this season.)
• Kurt and Blaine this episode, from "Perfect" to their little moments. They're just so supportive and in tune with one another. I love them so much. Always and forever, they are amazing. <3 (I love SillyGleek's comments to Blaine. YES SO MUCH SO. Hehe.)

More as soon as I get the chance. It was a great episode.

Edit: Also, I hope Kurt knows that, if he is not accepted into NYADA, there are other options in NY and elsewhere. I just want him to find a place he can be happy and fulfill his dreams. You know? 

Quick Thoughts, Glee 3x03, "Asian F"

More later, I promise, once I can seriously sit down and write my yay/nays for the first three eps, but her are some quick thoughts until then...

Spoilers ahoy!

• Emma's parents and their "ginger supremacist" attitudes? OMG. 
• Mercedes: I can understand....to a certain extent. But her attitude and the way she's going about stuff? I'm undecided as of yet....but I think she needs to calm down and eat some fruit. 
• That being said, Amber Riley was INCREDIBLE this week. She's amazing. I got chills during "It's All Over". <3
• ...And I am STOKED that we're seeing Mercedes-centered storylines. *happy dance*
• RACHEL!!!!!! WHYYYYYYYYYYY?! *cries*
• Kurt and Blaine = tugging at my heartstrings and warm fuzzies every time.
• I LOVE LOVE LOVE how it was Kurt giving Blaine the flowers. 
• MIKECHANGMIKECHANGMIKECHANG. Why hasn't he gotten a solid storyline before now? He is quite the double threat. And that scene with his mother....
• THE RETURN OF VAMPIRE TINA!!!! :D 
• Coach Beiste. I think I love her more and more each time we see her. 
• Brittany. Oh my goodness, Brittany. 

Now back to homework. 

Brittany's New Duds

So this picture, along with a couple other new images from next week's episode, popped up on Glee Fans Live yesterday, if I remember correctly. 

Oh. My. Word. DYING. I have no idea what the context of this scene is, but I CANNOT WAIT to find out. (I'll have the Yay/Nay up for this weeks episode as soon as I can; I just need to sit down to write it. It was amazing though...season 3 is going to RULE.) <3

[Image Source]

Glee Season 3 Wishlist

So, Glee starts back up tomorrow. Hooray! I was going to do a normal post on this (i.e. with regular paragraphs and some sort of overall flow), but realized there was just too much I wanted to say about a LOT of different things, so I opted instead for bullet points.

So yeah. Here is a collection of thoughts regarding Glee's upcoming third season. Plus a few other related things--some of which I'm merely wishing for.

The Song Wishlist (Or, Songs I Wish They'd Do At Some Point. Please. Because, seriously.)

• "Don't Speak" by No Doubt. I have mixed feelings about this one; it is one of my all-time favorites, and I think it could be done so very well on the show (and, if it fits with what they want to do with the plot/characters, it could be really powerful). I don't know who I'd want to sing it. I don't know how I'd feel about someone other than Gwen Stefani singing it. But I'm hoping. 
• "Ordinary World" by Duran Duran. Though I really want them to do this particular song, I'd be okay with anything from Duran Duran. And wasn't it Kurt who suggested "Rio" at one point? 
• "Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)" by Eurythmics. I only have one request with this: either Tina or Kurt (OR BOTH) should be the one to sing it. Either them or the GP's Samuel as his character. 
• "Uncharted" by Sara Bareilles. They haven't done anything of hers yet on the show, and I'd really be interested to see how they pull it off. Plus, it's an inspirational masterpiece. 
• "Hide and Seek" by Imogen Heap. I don't think ANY remake of this one will ever live up to the original...but I think Glee could produce a decent--an interesting--take on it. 
• Any song by The Beach Boys. I want to see the Glee guys in five-part harmony. Stat. 
• "Wonderwall" by Oasis. (Related: More '80s and '90s music in general. Like much of Season 1. You know?)
• Anything by the Goo Goo Dolls. Pleasepleasepleasepleasepleaseplease. With a cherry on top.

There are more, but I'm truly more interested to see what they choose and how it relates to the story. After all, the heart of the show lies within the story. The music just enhances it.

Everything Else


I know that there have been a lot of rumors and spoilers that have been floating around (most of which I am aware) but I am going to try not to address them because we will find out soon enough whether they're true or not. The following, therefore, is a list of things I hope they'll at least address based off of my thoughts concerns the previous two seasons....especially Season 2. If any spoilers appear below, I will let you know.

• If Crazy Mr. Schue--you know, the one that was present for the first third of Season 2--reappears with more crazy, I will seriously slushie my television. It is such an exaggeration of his character. It didn't feel right to me. Honestly, I have gotten to point in which I'm not that interested in what's happening with him BECAUSE of his stint on said Crazy Train.
• More voiceovers, because I felt that Season 2 didn't have it enough--and I adore the voiceovers. Specifically: Blaine, Mercedes, Artie, and Brittany. Also? Please more flashbacks. My feelings are almost identical. 
• Quinn needs another strong (or stable, at least) storyline. She felt all over the place in s2, bouncing from football player to football player, angry only over prom (or SEEMINGLY, anyway). 
• Mercedes. Needs. Storylines. Good ones that go beyond the mostly positive storyline she had in 1x16, "Home." In my opinion, she was unfairly forgotten in Season 2 (though there were a few nice moments she was able to claim her own, "few" being the key word, here). 
• Lauren Zizes needs to stick around. She's too brilliant of a character to get rid of entirely. Please, Glee writers, keep her in any way you can.
• (Slight) Spoiler #1: I'm super, super stoked that they're focusing more on character development and story in Season 3. I think Season 2 struggled with this here and there throughout--though once they'd found a plot trajectory, they really pulled out all the stops and rocked it. One thing I really appreciate more and more about the finale of s2 is the hanging question/realization of graduation. I  cannot wait to see this played out; there is so much possibility suggested with the episode's musings on the future for the writers to explore. 
• Slight Spoiler #2: I want the GP winners' roles to be worth it. I have a feeling that Damian's is going to rule (SOOOOO EXCITED TO SEE HIM ON THE SHOW). I am curious as to Samuel's role; I'm still not sure how I feel about him, but I'm really intrigued to see what the writers do, and most especially because of my current feelings concerning him. I hope that Alex's and Lindsay's roles are good as well. While I'm not the greatest fan of Lindsay, I do hope that she does well. As for Alex, I'm just so happy he will be able to have a role, however small it it (and I'm interested to see if it involves drag). He is such and incredible performer. 
• Please no crazy antics/side plots like premature promise rings and inappropriate/uncomfortable encounters in the library (see most of Jacob's purpose for being in "Britney/Brittany") and getting married in Vegas on a whim. *headdesk* We've dealt with the terrible twos, so let's move on to bigger, better, and more believable sub-plots. And in the process, we'll hopefully avoid any train wrecks like that of 2x9 "Special Education."
• I'm really excited to see what happens with Santana and Karofsky this season. I am also very interested in the possibility of Blaine dealing with being a part of a glee club other than the Warblers (and whatever "complications" may ensue).
• More "Fondue for Two." Especially since we've lost our chance for any more Sam impersonations (I pine, Reality. I pine for those impersonations.)

There will always be more. But now, sleep.  

Hoarding #1, Additions

I am an incredible pack rat, but (I hope) not entirely of useless things. When I shop--which, honestly, is not that often--it's typically for books, movies, or music; shopping for clothes usually depresses me beyond words and I'm not much of a have-a-lot-of-shoes kind of gal. I buy music (on CD) like it's candy, and I have been known to scour discount bins for gold nuggets whenever I get the chance. My bookshelves are seriously overflowing, as are the shelving units that are currently stuffed with my movies.

Some of what I've acquired recently:

Alisha and I went to Wal-Mart today just to look around. We roamed through the toy aisles, pushing buttons and picking stuff up. At one point, we even had the cliche lightsaber battle in one of the aisles. And I found this. 

I bought Season 2 on Tuesday (hooray!). Alisha found the folders and gave me a couple. School supplies are always welcome. As is Glee, one of the best pick-me-ups out there. 

These are the last books I will ever buy from Borders/Waldenbooks. When we walked in the local Waldenbooks a week ago, it was incredibly barren. They'd roped off half the store, and there were few books left in most of the genres. I walked around the store twice scouring their limited selection before I decided on these. It was much more emotional than I thought it would be; I am devastated Borders is closing, and I can't even begin to imagine what the future will bring to bookstores themselves. 

There is a Hastings in town, and I really like scouring what they have overall to see if there's anything that catches my eye. Cue these used books, which I was able to pick up for a decent price. I really like the different kind of selection Hastings provides; it gives a nice balance to the kind of selection the Dusty Bookshelf (our local used book store) and Waldenbooks had, at least until the recent going-out-of-business sale. I absolutely adore Maureen Johnson (her book, The Bermudez Triangle, is one I highly recommend), and I've read a book or two by Carolyn Mackler in high school and enjoyed them. I can't remember for sure if Vegan Virgin Valentine was one of them or not, but I know I at least knew about it, so I thought it would be worth it. 

On the same day as our lightsaber-wielding Wal-Mart trip, I found this Snoopy coloring book. It called to me. Thus, I bought a box of crayons for the first time in years.

Little Bits of Happiness

This week flew by much too quickly, leaving me thinking that today was Saturday and not Friday. My last year of undergrad starts in about two days, and with everything that I've been thinking about--so much thinking--in addition to everything that has happened in the last few months, I'm starting to feel a pressure building within my chest. I have this crazy feeling that I'm forgetting something important; my dreams have started reflecting this and other various school-related insecurities. This is how it usually starts.

And so, to quell the stress that is sure to set in, I'm making an extended pick-me-up list. I am determined to avoid what happened last year when I nearly lost my mind with everything that happened in and out of school. It's one attempt to keep my sanity, assuming things will be just as crazy. Below is the beginning of this list. I'll add to it as the year wears on.


1. Reading. Lots and lots of it, especially considering I've only had the chance to read a book and a half this summer.

2. "Uncharted" by Sara Bareilles. When I was pouring my heart out to my sister one night over the phone a few months ago, she suggested I listen to this song in hopes that I would find some sort of creative inspiration/comfort from everything that was going on. Since then it's been my go-to song for when things seem beyond overwhelming.

3. The Literary Snob. Indescribable beauty in so many respects. LOVE.

4. Drawing. Always.

5. Kurt doing "Single Ladies" in the "Preggers" episode of Glee. I will never, ever tire of it. (Sidenote: As good as the Glee 3D movie was, I was severely disappointed that "Single Ladies" didn't make the cut. Alas.)

6. The "Laryngitis" episode of Glee. It is my favorite episode from Season 1. Few words can accurately explain my adoration for this episode. It is incredible.

7. Any news concerning The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Struck By Lightning, and The Hunger Games. All three are pretty much guaranteed to be amazing.

8. Waiting patiently for The Woman In Black. I'm not much for scary movies, but I will definitely be there to see this one.

9. Pottermore. I'm still waiting for my Welcome email. It will be worth the wait.

10. Harry Potter. As one last hurrah of summer before Monday, I'm going to see Deathly Hallows Part 2 again tomorrow night. A perfect end to an imperfect summer vacation.

11. Earl Grey tea. I am fairly sure we were made for one another.

The Week from You Know Where

I hate moving. I've had to do it at least twice in the last year and a half, and I have been dreading this day for, oh, six months or so.

It's not that I don't like the idea of living elsewhere. The house we're moving into, though I have yet to see the inside of it, provides us with a lot of space--which is awesome. And it has a basement complete with a laundry room, so that means relaxing/no need to get laundry quarters again for awhile. The house is going to be pretty amazing, and I can't wait to settle in.

Saturday is our move-out day, and Monday is our move-in day. Sunday is going to be that weird limbo where I technically will be homeless. Alisha and I plan to stay in a motel so we may be able to have a real night's sleep on real beds.

But honestly? It's the process of getting to that point that is driving me insane. I'm working most of the week. My plan to have been packed by two days ago was thwarted due to a lot of work shifts after my class ended at the beginning of the month. I find myself overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff I still need to do before moving (and before the semester starts back up again). I'm worried about transporting all the stuff I have; over five years I have acquired a small library and many movies, and I'm a pack rat, so that doesn't help. I am not sure about any possible help yet for the actual moving part yet; I have asked Heidi, but she isn't sure about whether she'll be able to help yet, and as my mom is working this weekend, and my dad's shoulder out of commission...It is all too much for me to handle at the moment.

It doesn't help that my roommates and I are all on edge, and letting the stress vent itself in the form of annoyed bitchiness most of the time in conversation. This isn't helping my mind state at all; I have done my share of snapping at everyone, but it is difficult to alter one's attitude when being attacked, seemingly, from most directions. I mean, perhaps a lot of the frustration is in my head (moving stresses me out SO MUCH), and I'm only imagining most of the tension...but there is still something there. The consolation is that by this time next week, it will have disappeared. Until then, however...

Too many things to think about right now.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch:

• Turns out that Kurt's graduation doesn't mean he's leaving Glee. Brad Falchuk cleared it up at ComicCon. Wooohooo! Words cannot express my relief; Glee doesn't seem like Glee if Rachel, Finn, and Kurt--arguably the most prominent cores of the emotional plot--are not there to take part in some way. Especially Kurt, since he is a character so many are invested in, including myself. (Note: This may be acceptable after a few more seasons, but for right now, it's much too soon to see them go for good.) Related: I never thought I'd be this connected to a television show. This is basically the only one I have stuck with since first watching it, and I'm not much of a TV person at all. It blows my mind. The show is incredible.
• The Glee Project, while still annoying me from time to time, is alright. I'm still not fond of the stupid drama bits they tend to insert here and there--I find it incredibly distracting--but I am really intrigued with the casting process. I was sad when Matheus was sent home--it doesn't feel the same without him--I don't like Lindsay's "can't ever go wrong" demeanor, and I really, really want Hannah to win. She seems the most genuine to me, and I would love to see what kind of character she could bring to the show. 
• I have purchased The Invention of Hugo Cabret and intend to read it as soon as we're moved into the new house. More on this later; but rest assured I am STOKED to read it. 
• Prairie and I went to Waldenbooks on Sunday to check out the blowout sale. Regardless of the fact the discounts weren't as good as I had hoped (I saved only $6), it was surreal and very tragic to think that in mere weeks, Borders will have disappeared. So many feelings....
• This is probably going to be the thing that gets me through the next week and a half. I am so excited to see Struck by Lightning. It is sure to be awesome. Did you know that Chris Colfer wrote the script for it?* 
• Reason #1974626475 why Matthew Lewis is awesome**: He and I share the same passion and associated feelings for Beatles music. And we agree on the best Beatles album. Also, microwaved scrambled eggs? No words. 
• My grandparents will soon be celebrating their 60th anniversary. I'm so happy for them. <3

*Chris Colfer is one of my heroes. He is a genius.

**Matthew Lewis is also one of my heroes. Always and forever. We sent him a K-State hat once because he talked about his embarrassing Order of the Phoenix haircut on an early episode of PotterCast, and there was a call for hats (probably as a joke, but we still wanted to help him out).

Before I Dive Back Into Essay-Writing Classwork....

...one more thing about Klaine. Behold, the final skit from Glee Live 2011. (Also, this better quality video of the same skit.)

After crowns and fuzzy hats and marriage proposals and bridges and leprechauns and commemorative plates and all of the other bits of cleverness and wit that have come about from every single version of it, this.

Some people probably wouldn't totally understand what Glee itself is and what it represents, and definitely not how attached fans get to Kurt and Blaine's relationship (not that that's a bad thing; to each his/her own). And for those who love the show (and the relationship as well), it varies due to how they take it. For me, the show means a lot of different things (many of which I will talk about at length another time), and some of them are hard for me to explain because they're so complex.

The thing with Kurt and Blaine for me, however, is not just because Kurt is my favorite character--though that was part of what it started from. There was something there from the moment that the two meet that connected them to one another. I am strictly what the internet knows as a "Kurt/Happiness" shipper, so I was most concerned with Kurt finding someone that would provide him the happiness he deserves. So I was glad that Kurt had found a mentor, confidant, and friend in Blaine; and if it turned out that they would ultimately remain friends, I was okay with that. But as time when on, however, the relationship started growing and building up from this strong camaraderie they share. And unlike some other couples on the show*, the development (including the character development for both of them!) took its time, so that by the time we got to "Original Song", their admiration--and that kiss--was whole-heartedly deserved. (There are some other really important things that tie/lead into this moment, but that's for another post.)

And then there's the fact that Kurt and Blaine mean so much to so many people, and the characters themselves are brilliantly written (i.e. while they have their good moments, they are also flawed, which is fabulous and makes them seem so much better for one another) and are portrayed positively. Seeing that moment when it finally clicks in Blaine's head, and then later, when he is honest with Kurt about his feelings? Powerful, so beyond so, even. I see what they have as on par with the kind of relationship that Finn and Rachel have--though there are some significant differences, they're relationship feels like it will last a helluvah lot longer than a couple of episodes.

I guess one of the things I love so very much about this skit is that reflects that dynamic that they have on the show--as the other versions of the skit have. There's the genius of Chris Colfer**, once again, with that heartfelt reading of the beautiful, hysterical, clever poem (and I second the motion about those who call Kurt a stereotype, because while there may be a few elements that seem like a stereotype, the character most certainly is not). And then there's Darren Criss' response, which is wonderful as always. And Kurt's reaction, where he seems to float a little, then collapses in bliss, is both hilarious and wonderful. I'd imagine that that's what love does to a person, you know? It catches you off guard, then carries you off.

And though my main concern is still that Kurt is happy--I want him to be happy with whoever he ends up with, whether it would be Blaine or not--and that if he and Blaine are not meant by the power of the writers to remain together, I think I might be a little bummed if they break up. Because, you know, there'd have to be a good reason for it and they'd have to prove to me that anyone else is worthy of Kurt. He and Blaine just seem to fit each other.

And now I'm off to finish up this class. I am easily distracted...

*coughQuinn&Samcough

**Seriously though. Chris Colfer is awesome. He's clever, he's intelligent, he's witty, he's a brilliant actor, and so talented. He is the king of cool points as far as I'm concerned.

A Few More Bits of Klaine-y Goodness

First, this outtake that's been floating around the internet, which makes me laugh a LOT:

And then there is this version Glee Live skit from the 26 June show in London, seriously one of the best Klaine skits I've seen on YouTube thus far. Chris Colfer, as I think I've said before, is a GENIUS, and Darren Criss, as always, plays off him so well. 

Kurt and Blaine are seriously the best. THE. BEST. I can't get over it. 

[Image found via Facebook.]

Why Glee Kind of Matters (Another Probable Part One)

If you have not seen this review of Glee Live in NYC, you should read it, not only because it is honest, it also vocalizes something important that some fail to understand about Glee. And oh, is it spot-on--and that last line.... (Also be sure to check out the comments...no words.)

I will return to this subject. But first: homework.

Sidenote: Also check out the video the author provides of the Kurt/Blaine skit from the late show. It is probably my favorite of all the ones I've watched on YouTube because

A) Kurt is awesome (and my favorite character, so that's a given)

B) Kurt and Blaine are wonderful together and

C) It is hilarious. (And Chris Colfer ad-libbing--from what I understand, anyway--with Darren Criss' responses are possibly the greatest thing since sliced bread.)

The Glee Project Round-Up, 1x01, "Individuality"

So here's my thing with The Glee Project. I had not originally planned to watch it, because I have mixed feelings about reality shows (the only one I watch--if I happen to catch it--is America's Next Top Model, but even that is seldom). I didn't want a stigma associated with a show that I'm so passionate about, and I just wasn't sure what was to be gained from going through with the idea. Most importantly, I didn't want Glee, the only current television show that I have not yet gotten tired of (and actually enjoyed completely), to be tainted by this thing that I could not fathom.

But after thinking about it a LOT, I decided at the very last minute that I would watch it. I was curious. I wanted the contestants--and most especially the winner--to prove to me that this was worth it. And I really wanted to see them as the character they are playing, not the person. I wanted to see what they could bring.

And thus begins the Round-Up.

• I'm digging the general arrangement of the episode. The structure itself feels organic to what they're wanting to do with it, and I was not bored at all (In fact, I was surprised a couple of times because there was so much in there). The time is well used, and I think that if they continue in this vein, it will keep things interesting. Plus, it means less drama stuff and more doing stuff. I'm more concerned with the "doing stuff" part. 
• "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" is such a great song. Please explain to me why they haven't yet done it on Glee?
• Have I mentioned how awesome Darren Criss is? I loved how constructive and thorough his thoughts were when he was critiquing the contestants' performances. (And it was nice to see the quick clip of his advice to Matheus.) Darren definitely knows what he's doing, and it shows. I hope this kind of thing continues.
• I LOVED Hannah, Alex, Cameron, Damian, and Matheus. To me, they felt the most in tune and honest with their own individuality, and were not afraid to be themselves.  
• I wasn't so impressed with Lindsay. She was borderline for me this week (and I feel like it's going to get worse as the weeks go on.) I'm also not sure how to handle Samuel, but I have some hope for the future....Marissa, too, is borderline. 
• Let's talk professionalism for a second. Emily does not seem to have nor understand it. Her superficial attitude aside, it was not okay for her to be flirting with the guest judge, and I had the feeling every time I face-palmed that she didn't quite understand what Glee is about--and it certainly doesn't have anything to do with her hair flip or her chest (and though she claims the otherwise, flipping her hair does NOT make her different. Being more than what's on the outside does). There's a difference between having attitude and being conceited. I'm having trouble being patient with her inappropriate (and often sickeningly on the verge of suggestive) demeanor, and I sincerely hope that she is eliminated soon. I think I read somewhere that she was trained at LaGuardia in NYC--and I am not seeing anything I expected from a student from such a significant performance institution. You know? 
• I wasn't sure what to do with Bryce. He, like Emily, seemed unprofessional in some of his interactions, and I felt he kept flip-flopping in what he was about. I didn't mind his elimination. I think he'll go really far, I just feel Glee isn't going to get him there. 
• I really like how there is a constant critique going on. It's really interesting to see the judges' process and to see them working with each of the kids to overcome and achieve the goals they've been given. (And I love how honest Zach and Robert are with them. There's no sugar-coating.)
• Oh, first episode naivety. You're so funny. What you don't realize is that you all will, at some point, be at each other's throats. That's how reality shows work. The drama is what people will return to. 
• Best moment this episode? Hands down Damian's performance of "Jesse's Girl"--and Ryan Murphy's reaction. And after all that? Damian kept his cool and handled it really well. Cool points to him. Awesome. 
• I love the constant reminders/tidbits about the original show. The judges urging them to be themselves, to be okay with themselves and the mistakes they make, because that is part of what makes them who they are. 

Well. Let's see how next week goes.

A Billion Cool Points Go To...

...Dianna Agron, Who. Is. Awesome.

Quotage #1:

Acceptance opens doors, makes room for change, diffuses misunderstanding. Every day, people commit hate crimes because of misunderstandings. Hate effects the target, and consumes the person behind the gun. It is crazy to realize that we have been in war for almost our entire existence on this planet. Many times for reasons of greed and hate.

Quotage #2:

 We can’t always put ourselves in someone else’s shoes. But we can try....I am lucky to live in a place where I can wear almost anything that I want to express myself, and that jail is not a probable consequence. Which makes me feel as if I should exercise my right to do so every now and then. Think of the people that have died because of their passion and heartfelt hopes of change? So many good men and women. All because of an inherent wish for tolerance, love and support. 

What a beautiful message and gesture. (She's always quite eloquent and thoughtful on her tumblr, but something about this post makes it extra important.) I think we tend to forget that this kind of hatred is still there and still very real--as unfortunate as it is--in today's society. I've been doing a lot of reading on the Civil Rights movement for my history class, and the more I read about it, the angrier and more horrified I become. How is it that human nature can turn so ugly when one doesn't understand or does not try to understand something that society deems different and unacceptable? How can someone hate another so much because of the color of their skin or their religion or sexual orientation or whatever makes them different? And it's not just limited to the racism of the past and today, but also homophobia, like Dianna Agron points out, something our society deals with on a daily basis.

All because we don't try to understand our world and most especially the people we interact with. We are all different, and that's what makes us unique. We are all human. In the words of Gaga, we are born this way. So why are we so set on judging someone else because they are so different from us? What will we gain from the hatred and intolerance?

Thank you, Dianna, for your inspiration and beautiful thoughts. #letlovein

(Edit: Deconstructing Glee brings up a couple excellent points with this as well. Agreed on all counts.)

Happy Thought #1

Deconstructing Glee brings something up that didn't hit me fully until about 2 minutes ago. I'm not going to get my hopes too high, but...

AGREE. Agree, agree, agree. Hopefully? Pretty please?!

An Examination of Kurt in "New York"

Many thanks to Deconstructing Glee for posting a link to this. Letters from Titan has posted a mind-blowing analysis on Kurt's hero journey and his wardrobe in "New York". 

I have no words. This is incredible.