CHRONICLES OF DRIFTY KONES

CREW MEMBERS : list

2008-06-06T10:08:28Z

Introducing Infie

2008-06-06T02:15:39Z

Hey all

Infie here. Syrai convinced (read: shanghaied) me into coming onboard.

So! I've been writing fanfiction for literally longer than syrai has been alive, I just realised much to my chagrin. I started with Miami Vice fanfic back in the early 80s and haev done lots and lots since then.

For fandoms, well, my fandoms are pretty fluid but I'm very loyal to my favourite characters. I've read in Highlander, X-Files, Dark Angel, Supernatural, Dawson's Creek, Battlestar Galactica, Firefly, X-Men, Star Trek, Harsh Realm, Babylon 5, Queer as Folk, Avatar, SG-1 (though I hate that show) and my current obsession, Stargate: Atlantis. Oh, I've also read stuff based on Boa vs. Python, Treed Murray, Thoughtcrimes, Cube, Anita Blake, and Rachel Morgan.

There are probably more. *blush*

For stories, I read anything! I've found a surprising willingness to read (and, lately, write!) hardcore kinks including slash and (much to my surprise) what the readers are calling BDSM.

I rec based on stories that are really well written; I don't rec for pairing sake. I like humour, but my favourites seem to be Dark!fics, AU interpretations where everyone is evil (so fun!), hurt/comfort, deathfics, angst. My absolute favourite ones tend to be mindfucks or stories that change the whole complexion of a fandom with a perception change. FuN!

FAN VID: THIS IS YOUR LIFE by pyrotechnic86

2007-10-07T17:54:33Z

VIDEO: This is Your Life
SONG: This is your life by Switchfoot
MAKER: pyrotechnic86
FANDOM: X-Men
CHARACTERS: Pyro, Rogue & Iceman

{ xxx } Such a haunting video, I tell you. Out of nowhere it -the song, mainly- appeared into my head last night after I'd already gone to bed and it wouldn't leave me alone. this is your life, this is your life, this is your life, over and over and over again and so, I started thinking about the actual video; it's structure and all that and I realized that really, it's my damn duty to recc this one too.

I wasn't originally gonna recc it, yeah, because I wasn't sure what to say about it... I kinda feel like I'm just repeating myself with these reccs... it's always more or less ryro, character study and emotional. Those are three words I keep repeating, but what can I say?. That is the kind of stuff I love and like to recc. Oh well ::shrugs::

But this one, oddly, isn't a shipper video (horror!) but more like something that tries to show us the actual relationship between these three characters that took place *in* the movies - which is why I'm not listing it under PAIRINGS, but as general.

At first I wasn't so sure about the song choice, but the more I listen to it and the more I watch the video while doing so, the more I see how nicely the two actually fit together. The song is, as said, haunting, bittersweet and so is the vid, definitely.

I feel that as a vid maker Pyrotechnic86 has got the kind of style that really hits home with me - I have, indeed, recced other stuff by the said maker before.

The lyrics are, as I like to put it, and stay in tune with the scenes and it tells us that the clips haven't been randomly edited together to look cool, to be flashy. They're actually trying to tell us how these characters feel - and damn, it manages to do it, too. Whenever the pace changes, the pace of the scenes does too, which personally, is my favorite thing about the video - it efficiently keeps the vid from becoming boring, looks good and makes your heart beat a little faster, too. So, yeah, I like it a lot. The effects are nifty too and all in all the editing is done really beautifully. With patience, definitely ::bows::

Favorite bit: 1.14-1.55 --- I don't know, I think that bit just says it all. Young Marie always breaks my heart... and bitter, frustrated and angry Pyro always tickles me the right way.

THE FALLOUT BY SAGE

2007-10-07T17:39:25Z

Title: The Fallout
Author: Sage
Fandom: Harry Potter
Genre: Angst/Drama/Romance
Pairing: Hermione/Draco
Rating: NC-17
Status: Incomplete
Summary: Hermione learns about growing up through the redemption of Draco Malfoy.

Pro's: It's sexy angst! Sexy angst is a gift from the gods, I say. Not to mention this writer is like, a poet. Their words flow so perfectly and filled with feeling. I really enjoy that. And oh my god, the sex. THE SEX! Best sex ever.
Con's: It's not written exactly as most fics are. Its almost like a journal entry, but with a third party narrator describing in detail the days and how they pass. At first I thought I wouldn't like that, but I think it adds to the story so well.

{xxx}review.

So, this is pretty much my all time favorite Dramione fics now. Of course it isn't finished yet and I hate saying that if a fic isn't finished, but its so good I think I must. When I read a Dramione fic, angst gets me far. Why? Because Angsty!Draco is my favorite Draco, and this Draco couldn't be anything but (well he can also be damn sexy, which he is)

And oh my god, the smut. The smut that comes from it in later chapters, its so fantastic and well written I love it.

Anyway, on with the plot. So the story revolves around the days and hours of War, and how it impacts Hermione and the people around her. I don't think I could touch on that sentence more, but there is so much to the story with that one sentence, that it feels awkward just stating it so simply. The author puts so much emotion and feeling into it, that you cannot help but to be in awe of that.

But lets move on.

And Draco Malfoy is a beautiful, complex creature of this war, thrown to the Aurors, no longer on the side of the Death Eaters. The ministry is using him for funding among other things, and he too is throw into battle, now on Hermione's side -- but no one trusts him. He is fighting alongside those that hate him and scorn him, but he still fights. And Hermione, as much as she tries to understand why he's there and who he really is, is still stuck on the notion that he is a spoiled prat who judges people too quickly.

This escalates into hatred and sex, of course, which I would not have any other way. I say read it, you have nothing to lose, and I really do think any Dramione fan will just love this. I found nothing too cliche or dull about it, and I think that in itself is a feat.

{xxx}quote.

I'm actually thrown in a loop because there's just so many good quotes that I can think of, so I just had to put in two. The first, I love because its just so funny to me.

Hermione and Neville eye each other from across the expanse of the living room, and Hermione knows that he knows what it is she had done last night. Or, who, really.

"You're gay."

"You're having sex with Draco Malfoy."

"Even, then?"

"Secret, then?"

"Yes."

"Yes."

"Good."

"Great."

The second here, really gave me a jolt from how well written it was, and how it felt like a turning point in the story;

Grimmauld Place then, and it is three seconds after her arrival of utter silence before the living room bursts into activity. The arm releases her as Lupin performs a Leviosa on her, and questions are thrown out as he brings her to what she assumes will be the small, makeshift infirmary. As she struggles to keep her nerves calm and focus, she raises her head, bypassing the image of a surprised Lavender and Colin, and settles her eyes on the figure directly ahead of her. Malfoy stands, staring after her, covered in her blood.

Her dirty, dirty blood.

FAN VID: THE MIX by thatcraftykid

2007-10-06T17:45:36Z

VIDEO: the mix
SONG: Camp Pyro ("Rockin' the Suburbs" by Ben Folds), Irreverent Pyro ("Minority" by Green Day), Jealous Pyro ("Cool to Be You" by Descendents), Seductive Pyro ("Lying is the Most Fun..." by Panic! At the Disco), Terrorist Pyro ("Burn, Burn" by Lost Prophets), and Conflicted Pyro ("I Feel So" by Box Car Racer)
MAKER: thatcraftykid
FANDOM: X-Men
PAIRING: Pyro/Rogue

{ xxx } Oh, dude. This one's such a cool vid - and it's got pretty funny beginning, too. Not many would have thought of it.

Okay, the fact the sound clips and the music seem to be fighting all the time through-out the whole vid, well, that gets a little annoying to listen to (at least my ears thought so), but I do love the general idea behind that. Plus, I LOVE the chosen sound clips like hell. They're yummie.

You know, this vid isn't really telling us a story either - it's more like a character study of Pyro through the three movies with a hint of RYRO in it and then leaves us with open ending... But.

I love the songs, I do. I LOVE how the lyrics really, really, really reflect the scenes - his emotions and actions. They're funny and sarcastic at the same time and just so *him* too. I don't think there was a single moment that I would've thought 'no, don't fit' but it was more like 'yes, exactly!!!' through and through.

I swear there's so many bits I like, but the one that always makes me giggle is around 1.00. Mwuahahahahah... fuuuuuuuck! How fitting was that? Yeah, go watch and you'll know what I mean ^^;

Another bit that I enjoyed? The double meaning in must be pretty cool to be you because well, Bobby *is* Iceman. I find it funny, is all.

Pyro is a melting pot of all sorts of emotions, a mix, and that's exactly what the vid gives us. Lots and lots and lots and lots of different emotions.

The only thing that I frown upon is the fact the songs switch sort of dramatically and it sometimes breaks the flow, BUT, that's cool too. I can live with that because honestly, I dunno how it could've been done better, so.

Oh, and:

"Am I who you think about in bed?
When the lights are dim and your hands are shaking as you're sliding off your dress?
Then think of what you did
And how I hope to God he was worth it.
When the lights are dim and your heart is racing as your fingers touch his skin.
I've got more wit, a better kiss, a hotter touch, a better fuck
Than any boy you'll ever meet, sweetie you had me
Girl I was it, look past the sweat, a better love deserving of
Exchanging body heat in the passenger seat?
No, no, no, you know it will always just be me

It's the RYRO shipper inside of me, giggling, chuckling, smiling... purring. Definitely purring.

Who am I kidding, really? I love ALL the bits. How could I not?

FAN VID: CRAWLING by pyrotechnic86

2007-10-06T17:08:38Z

VIDEO: Crawling
SONG: Crawling by Linkin Park
MAKER: pyrotechnic86
FANDOM: X-Men
CHARACTER: Rogue

{ xxx } As always, you might want to watch it first, but don't worry, I won't ruin anything for you (hopefully) even if you didn't - this one isn't telling a story that I might spoil. Instead, it gives us something better.

A character study (and it's all about Rogue and why she is the way she is).

Which, in my opinion, is amazing - especially when it's done with a fan vid, not a fic. Admittedly, it took me a long time to realize just how beautiful and well-thought this video actually is. The first time I watched it, I don't think I was concentrating enough to get it. The song, the scenes, the fading. Especially the fading. I didn't realize the fades actually tell us something. I should've noticed, of course, because it's very clear, but as I said, my mind wasn't on the video then ---

So, you pay attention to the fades while watching, okay?

The video basically shows us how the minds' of people Rogue has drained effect her own psyche, how they affect the choices she makes in her life - and her attitude. At least that's the feeling the video gives me - that's how I see it and, well, what I see, I like.

Technically, in the movies Rogue doesn't really absorb the personalities of the people she touches, at least we're not told so (as far as I remember) - all we know is that she simply gets their memories and their powers, but the thing I love about this video is that it actually makes you think that 'you know, we could be wrong'.

Maybe she does get piece of them, too. Maybe it's something the writers just chose to keep as a secret, hee.

Anyway, I find this particular video pretty heartbreaking. I dunno why. You know, all the pain she's felt, everything she's gone through - all put in one video... well, maybe it's no wonder it's heartbreaking, really.

It would seem I don't have much to say. 'Cept that... the editing is nice, the effects cool and the the song truly is fitting (never can go wrong with LINKIN PARK... what can I say? I luv them). I especially love the fact it's got clear beginning and end that follow the music. I don't really like the kind of videos that just *end* without ending credits or something.

Extra points for showing us how alike Rogue and Pyro really are with the following bit ^^;
there's something inside me that pulls beneath the surface
consuming/confusing
this lack of self-control I fear is never ending
controlling/I can't seem
to find myself again
my walls are closing in
(without a sense of confidence I'm convinced that
there's just too much pressure to take)
I've felt this way before
so insecure

That's *so* my favorite part in the whole damn video. Because let's face it, it tickled the RYRO shipper in me. Surprising, eh?

POSTING FORMAT :: guideline

2007-10-05T20:44:24Z

After you have been granted posting access, you're more than welcome to start posting your reccs.

Here's the correct posting form.

.0 1

Subject line: FIC NAME by author

.0 2

(COPYPASTE)

Title: <a href="link to the fic">TITLE</a> 
Alternative links: {in case you know some other places where the fic has been posted}
Author:
Fandom: {which movie, tv show, game etc}
Pairings and/or characters:
Rating:
Warnings:
Summary: {given by the author}

{ xxx } Now, after all that information, USE LJ-CUT for the actual review when posting into the journal (if you're applying, lj-cuts can be forgotten)

<LJ-CUT TEXT="RECC">
Pros: 
Cons: (pros and cons are not needed, but would be loved)

{ xxx } Now, write your review here. By review we do not mean two sentences like "the fic was good. I liked it, dude, ya should totally read it" but, let's say, a bit more deeper explanation. Why you liked this particular fic, what kept you reading and so on. What kind of thoughts did the fic wake, or did it? You can even list all the annoying little things about the fic if you want, it's not all about praising. It's probably not the best idea to explain everything that happens in the fic, but if you want to go and analyze it throughfully, you can. Just note before the LJ-CUT that this particular review happens to be very detailed and spoiling.

It would be good to mention whether the fic is/was completed or still work in progress when you first recced it. REMEMBER ALL THE WARNINGS and RATINGS.

Also, though it's not needed for you to leave any sort of review or comment to the author, she or he would probably appreciate it a lot if you mentioned the recc and gave them a direct link to it :)

"QUOTE. Shot part of fic, perhaps a part of a dialogue you liked or something else that caught your eye. THIS ONE IS NEEDED. The staff can, if needed, edit this part." 
</LJ-CUT>

.0 3
Remember to TAG your entry. If the custom tag you need doesn't exist yet, it'll be made for you.

---> the tags you need to use are
reccer: your own username, fandom of the fic, pairing: fandom;pairing, rating, original fiction // fan fiction

---> for example the tags would look like this:
reccer: charming_syrai, fandom: alias, pairing: alias;sydney/sark, rating: nc-17, fan fiction {easiest way is to 'edit tags' and pick the correct ones from the list}

---> in case it's crossover:
reccer: charming_syrai, crossover, fandom: supernatural/btvs, fandom: supernatural, fandom: buffy the vampire slayer, pairing: spn/btvs;faith/dean, rating: nc-17, fan fiction <- check the TAG list for existing tags.

---> with FAN VID reccs the tags would be:
reccer: charming_syrai, fandom: ginger snaps, pairing: gs;brigitte/tyler, fan video

<- check the TAG list for existing tags.

Reccs with NO PAIRINGS should be tagged: pairing: general

.0 4
Only ONE RECC per post - this way it'll be easier to add them into MEMORIES

.0 5
Be nice, ok? You're supposed to rec a fic you like, not to bash one you hate

.0 6
It is not allowed for you to post a new entry with recc for a fic that's already been recced once, BUT you can comment on the existing recc with your own rant - we do want to hear your take on the issue, too.

If you have any questions, ask away.

FAN VID: BRAND NEW BOX OF MATCHES by thatcraftykid

2007-10-05T20:34:47Z

VIDEO: Brand New Box of Matches
SONG: These boots are made for walkin' by Nancy Sinatra
MAKER: thatcraftykid
FANDOM: X-Men
PAIRING: Pyro/Rogue

{ xxx } Watch first, okay? That way you won't be "spoiled" by my review. Just trust me, it's hilarious and if you love RYRO with the kind of passion I do, you'll find it hilarious too. Sometimes Ice being bashed a little is the only thing that can cheer you up, right?

Anyway. You'd think Nancy Sinatra doesn't work with X-Men. Fine, maybe you wouldn't think so, but I sure as hell did. I watched the video simply 'cause I was curious and now it's one of my favorites. Sinatra's accent sure fits with our southern belle, you know?

The title of the vid? If the hidden message in that one doesn't make you chuckle, then dude, I dunno what will.

This vid, it manages to make me smile every damn time. Grin, even. Like an idiot. Don't get me wrong, I mean, I like Bobby. Okay, well, I liked him before X3 a lot more, but I still do like him and I'm not really *that* into Ice-bashing, but somehow, this video manages to bash him every damn second and it's hilarious. Mwuahah!

First of all, the beginning. I love the way the scenes flash in tune with the sound, the beat, rhythm, whatever. I think it's a nifty way to spice it up a little, make it live. But more than that, I love the mental image the beginning of this video gives to the audience. Someone makes a flirty comment to Rogue and BOOYAH, John jumps outta his chair, ready to kick the guy to the ground for messing with his girl. Who the hell doesn't enjoy jealous John, huh?

Okay, second of all - the lyrics and the scenes? Oh, my, god. When she sings You've been messin' where you shouldn't have been a messin' and now someone else is gettin' all your best - first we see Kitty and Bobby, which makes me go like 'yeah, dude, you suck' and THEN

*giggles* --- Rogue's huge smirk when someone else is gettin' all your best made me think it's *her* best someone else is getting and damn, she sure as hell seems to enjoy that. Oh, and the way we skip to Bobby's frustrated face and John's eyebrow quirk which is screaming 'dude, don't look at me like that - it wasn't me. much. or at least you're not supposed to know!' ... MWUAHAHAH!

Also, I really do like the fact when she sings 'these boots are made for walking' we actually get to see WALKING.

You keep playin' where you shouldn't be playin and again, Kitty and Bobby -- I actually *snorted* a loud.

... and you keep thinkin' that you´ll never get burnt - (I love his flame thrower device, dude) made me glee and gloat and grin and especially the Ha! won me over...

I just found me a brand new box of matches yeah - Now, how fitting is it to have lyrics like that with a scene where Pyro's not only torching stuff, but Rogue's draining the guy almost as if... making him hers (her new little box of matches)... especially when the lyrics following are

and what he know you ain't HAD time to learn and with THAT delicious scene, Pyro being all wild and raw and cruel... Oh, Rogue, we knew you wanted him. We knew you're a lot darker inside than you pretend to be and we LOVE that.

"Are you ready boots?"
Again, the scene chosen is perfect. It makes it seem she finally realises the guy isn't worth her time and energy and, well,

... The whole 'start walking' and the, well, walk -- HAH. It's priceless and I'm not sure why. Just that Pyro won and Bobby didn't. This vid makes Rogue seem strong, proud and confident somehow and I guess I like that. I like the fact she won't let Bobby walk all over her.

Plus, John's cute little smirk at the end there? Maaaan, he *totally* saw it coming and was just waiting, patiently. Oh, you're getting lucky, dude.

... well, he is. She did take the cure, after all.

FAN VID: PYRO: JUDITH REMIX by easilyjaded

2007-10-05T19:49:25Z

VIDEO: PYRO: JUDITH REMIX
Maker: easilyjaded
Fandom: X-Men
Character: Pyro

Pros: Great song, great editing, nifty effects, damn good quality, etc etc
Cons: ... not that I noticed.

{ xxx } Watch first, okay?

This is by far my favorite Pyro video - usually I go for RYRO videos, but I decided to watch this anyway because I'm going through Pyro phase. Again. I can't help the fact I find him hot... in so many ways.

Anyway, the video starts so beautifully and the scene fits the lyrics perfectly. I hate the kind of vidoes where there is a song and scenes and they're just put together for no reason, no thinking, no emotion. But this one? Oh, man.

... The fact I love the band (and especially the singer) does help, I admit...

Back to the video. As I said, I usually go for the pairing videos, but for some reason the fact this one doesn't really have any (well, there's the RYRO vibe, sure - around 1.05, anyone? SO ryro.) I find... refreshing? I love the fact it reflects Pyro's relationships with not only Ice and Rogue, but with Magneto.

... Pyro sees him as his God - this vid (and the song, damnit) is so in tune with Pyro and how I see him. He doesn't always understand Magneto, no, but he does what the guy tells him to do without really questioning why. He was trying to find his place in the world... and lookie, then came the Brotherhood and our favorite pyromaniac found something that could be called home.

Every time you hear GOD or CHRIST being sang, Magneto's or Pyro's face comes up and well, I just LOVE that... Magento is the God, Pyro his little... anti-Christ?

I have SO many favorite bits in this one that it's hard to choose, but I LOVE the cop-attack scene around (00.50. It makes me smirk every time... what can I say? Another lil detail I really, really adore in this video is the change of pace (1.24) - the voice clip and the scene, well, they fit once again perfectly with the lyrics and it just looks soooo cooooool. The beat of the music stays in tune with the scenes throughout the whole vid and that's something I admire.

This vid is emotional somehow, I think. And bittersweet... who doesn't love bittersweet?

Plus, the ending? How freakin' cool is it?

The Girl of my Dreams is Giving me Nightmares by wilyone24

2007-08-11T15:48:05Z

Title: The Girl of my Dreams is Giving me Nightmares
Author: wilyone24
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: Song fits
Cons: doesn't hold out quite until the end

{ xxx } I was piqued because of the name of the video; it sounded like a Rayne fic title, you know? What I saw after the page opened was an amusing take on the Rayne ship. The song fits its subject nicely and it's edited rather well. The theme doesn't seem to quite hold out until the end, but that's also due to the structure of the song. I suppose the climax of the song isn't exactly a climax for the video, if you get what I'm saying.

Otherwise it's pretty addition to my "crack rayne" folder, where most of the parodies go. This one might not be parody at heart, but it isn't taking itself quite seriously either. It's an interesting mix of fear & fascination, just like most Rayne is. ;)

Favorite moments: 0:14-1:00

Haunted by Watcher_junior

2007-08-11T15:45:07Z

Title: Haunted
Author: Watcher_junior
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: clear story, good editing
Cons: a little low on the actual Rayne

{ xxx } The author gives us a summary of the plot of the video, which goes like this: "From the moment she arrives on Serenity, River feels a deep connection to Jayne. In fact, the connection is so strong that she frequently has visions when he's in danger. The closer they become, the more she senses that something is going to happen to him, but he thinks she's just crazy. Can she convince him that the threat is real before it's too late?"

The video succeeds perfectly in conveying the stress River feels over her visions and the fear for Jayne's life, but I don't see much of the actual Rayne in this one. It is still one of the best Rayne videos with a story though. The editing is peaceful, as is the song that fits its subject beautifully. The song sounds like River, or her inner voice; it has that same poetic sound to it.

The flashbacks are inserted into River scenes well and separated from the normal view with a black & white effect. It serves its purpose without standing out too much. I don't generally warm up to a lot of the effects, but this one worked in its simplicity. There also appears to be an effect on the normal video that makes it slightly more khaki colored. This fits brilliantly with the general dreamy mood of the fan video.

Strongly recommend. It's almost a piece of art. ;)

Favorite moments: 0:28-0:57, 2:05-2:47

Stricken by literarylemming

2007-08-11T15:41:51Z

Title: Stricken
Author: literarylemming
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: excellent choice of song
Cons: quality of song

{ xxx } I would be lying if I didn't say I'm absolutely in love with Disturbed's "Stricken". It all began with me seeing this video; I suddenly had hope that you could pull off a creditable fanon pairing video with Rayne after I saw it. The song fit them perfectly, being feral and obsessed at the same time. The editing, albeit not the best I've seen, threw in scenes in an order that seemed natural and fitting. I got to see my favorite parts accompanied with gripping music. This one had a life of its own in my eyes ever since the first time I saw it.

This one is a classic for me. It has the fighting, the sullen faces, the hurting. It's not the most positive Rayne story out there, but reminds me of my favorite type of Rayne fic: the kind where Jayne is possessed by her. This is an intense description of them, although not necessarily angsty. Don't we just love that friction?

My only regret for this vid is the quality of the song file. It's not exactly CD quality and that shows. "Stricken" is one of the few songs that quality seems to drain from clearly by making the music sound "crackled" and it's somewhat irritating. Love cures most flaws though and the sound of the music really feels like nothing after this vid has made its way to your heart. ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 0:23-1:20, 2:57-4:02

Eddie by Culf

2007-08-11T15:38:06Z

Title: Eddie
Author: Culf
Fandom: Firefly
Character: Jayne
Pairing: River/Jayne (mild)

Pros: funny as hell, fitting
Cons: nah

{ xxx } It's a parody video about a man called "Eddy", whose role Jayne is playing. The song retails Eddy's life from birth to his death, telling what a "no-good kid" he was. The video also gives a glimpse of his
relationship with River "who very nearly loved him". And this one you just have to see for yourself, because there really are no words for it.

It brings a smile to your face even from the start, where they use scenes from "Hearts of Gold" to show "Jayne's birth". Then we have Patience appear as Jayne's mother. The hilarity ensues from the description of Jayne's life and his relationship with River, all the way to the mistake that kills him. His crew shuts him away in a coffin we all know from "The Message" and River tenderly caresses her lover's coffin before Zoe and Mal carry him away.

Such fun editing!

This one is near perfect work. There's nothing to bitch about with it. Just click the link, watch & enjoy. ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 1:21-1:36 & 2:26-2:42

Anything For You v2 by wiccangirl1985

2007-08-11T15:35:48Z

Title: Anything For You v.2
Author: wiccangirl1985
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: the editing wins you over
Cons: rainbow/crack color effect, 0:00-1:00

{ xxx } This one is really confusing. The video underwent some repairs as seen in the title's "V2". The author describes it's story this way: "It's suppose to be River gets pregnant, her and Jayne try to be together but Simon becomes overprotective." but her description doesn't really work for the video. I don't exactly see a jealous Simon in it and the song's lyrics sound more of a desperate River wanting Jayne to love her, though he might not. We also see Jayne with other women and in some points the narrative with the "I'll do anything for you" line seems to switch to Jayne, which further adds my confusion as to the "story" of this vid.

One might ask why am I reccing it then? Editing mainly. After the first minute that contains the annoying rainbow color effect as a way to change POVs among other stuff the story really seems to take off. There are scenes that are woven together brilliantly and they really seem to match with the song and the theme of River just wanting Jayne to love her. She also looks more of a lovefool, mooning over an unrequited crush here, which I found well done.

So there's a lot of good stuff and a lot "confusing" stuff. Never the less I do find it a moderately good Rayne vid, because it still works on some levels unlike the Rayne vids that are well edited but don't really go well with their song of choice. It's worth checking out and making your own opinion about it. Maybe I'm just too demanding. ^^

Favorite moments: 1:12-1:50, 3:14-3:19

The Hollow by calleavada

2007-08-11T15:26:57Z

Title: The Hollow
Author: calleaveda
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: the song & the editing merge
Cons: nah

{ xxx } This is one of the most physical Rayne vids I've ever seen. The main idea about "Hollow" is explained by the author like this "River and Jayne must feed the hunger". Hunger for what? - Each other. How? - Through violence. Basically it's a video of the two kicking ass in unison. Don't we just love that? ;)

I love the song, being an APC fan. The lyrics match the action, and the editing is particularly beautiful during the first verse. In some points the editing's brilliance links with different scenes of River and Jayne and makes us believe they're in the same space. There are also some impressive cuts where you can clearly see that they're in different spaces, yet you still feel it's River signaling Jayne to turn his gun on his former ally (2:10-2:12).

Overall, it's a great video that puts together all our favorite Rayne asskicking moments and suggests there's something behind all that violence. And that's really what Rayne fan girls want, right? ;)

Favorite moments: 0:20-0:55

Double Take by literarylemming

2007-08-11T15:21:36Z

Title: Double Take
Author: literarylemming
Fandom: Firefly & RL
Characters: River, Jayne, Summer Glau, Adam Baldwin

Pros: love the "behind the scenes" parts
Cons: a bit loose on the River & Jayne tribute part

{ xxx } So a tribute to River, Jayne and their actors? This one feels a bit full. I love the bits of Adam Baldwin and Summer Glau in the outtakes, practicing etc. But the River & Jayne parts feel a bit thin to me. Basically the only this works is when the video is cut from Adam & Summer preparing for a scene and then to River & Jayne doing the scene completed. Also Adam's faces from an interview, cut together with River kicking Jayne's ass is quality entertainment. Not to mention I could watch Summer practice kicking ass on a loop forever. *rolls eyes*

For fans of Adam & Summer. Gotta love those lines they give here. "You're not so tough, you're not so tough. You're just a little girl." ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 1:49-2:36

Broken by literarylemming

2007-08-11T15:16:31Z

Title: Broken
Author: literarylemming
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: the angst, serious rayne
Cons: song is severely overused

{ xxx } Every pairing in every fandom has a video for Seether's "Broken", usually with the version featuring Amy Lee. It is the angst song of every pairing, and we've heard and seen it for a thousand times. How does one rejuvenate a song as tired as this one in a music video? I must admit I was skeptic at first. Sure it's a good song, but people rarely bother to exceed its limits anymore. The lyrics are simply too easy. Rare music videos with this song get that gut feeling that the song and the scenes match out of me anymore. Surprisingly, this one did.

I think a part of it is because we don't get a lot successful serious Rayne vids. It's a fanon pairing so the videos are usually crack, or romance and angst & tragedy are rarer than the two previously mentioned. You'll notice I mentioned a lot "favorite moments" below. That's because I felt those scenes matched especially well with the song & music, practically outdoing my expectations. We have angst here, a serious Jayne, a suffering River and you don't get a lot of that mixed together. A serious Jayne must be the most rare ingredient in the mix and I was surprised at how well that was pulled off. Jayne doesn't have nearly as much key dramatic scenes for his character as River does, but in here, you really didn't even notice that.

Surely the video isn't a 100% hit, but it did revive a classic for me. What I'm sad about is that the video didn't have a tighter story behind it; it simply mixed together scenes that fit the song. Never the less it is one of the better videos for "Broken" and a touching Rayne vid while at it.

As usual I recommend dearly. ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 0:17-0:35 & 1:02-1:25 & 2:54-3:21

The Case Continues by literarylemming

2007-08-11T15:13:29Z

Title: The Case Continues
Author: literarylemming
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: haunting, intensive, epic
Cons: makes me crave for Rayne uncontrollably?

{ xxx } Now I love music videos that tell a story, be it AU or whatever, more than tributes. This one happens to my favorite Rayne "tell a story" video. It isn't quite AU, though it has the "hint of rayne" aspect. The author of the video simply explains to us that the video is about "River's dreamlike ruminations on Jayne's actions during "Ariel." In other words, this is a look at Jayne's betrayal and it's meaning to River, had she had deeper feelings for him.

The video is an epic. The song builds up from a slow haunting beat to an intensive finale impressively. Editing is top notch and moves the story along very well. The video progresses nicely, telling the story of River and Jayne's relationship & his betrayal interwoven.

There's also a third level to the story, which is the scene of River dancing amid people in the episode "Safe". It's as if the story only lasts the time she's dancing happily and ends when she abruptly stops dancing. The song becomes more intense as her dancing does. At the end, the singer asks Jayne to "tell me you still have some left in you" and we see an imagine of Jayne apologizing while in the airlock. Then we're shown a few images from Serenity, and River looking at camera as she stops dancing, like she's just realized what really happened.

I love this video, it’s a favorite of mine that just never gets old. It's tragic and powerful and the maker has really put his/her heart into this. Out of the many Rayne vids I've seen, this has the most weight, really has a theme and a thought behind it, actually dealing with events that have happened. That's why it has the most effect. Brilliant work! ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 1:06-1:42

Take Me Home Tonight by literarylemming

2007-08-11T15:09:46Z

Title: Take Me Home Tonight
Author: literarylemming
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: River/Jayne

Pros: editing, general mood
Cons: the song really is cheesy

{ xxx } I guess this is one of those vids you either hate or love. I'm kinda still in between both feelings. The song is your typical cheesy 80's love song, that has that one general beat and "ugh" lyrics. Yet at the same time it does, in the author's words, "scream Rayne". I think the song fits and the editing only increases this feeling. It's clearly very quality work and done with lots of love.

This one certainly has it's mood set for some warm and fuzzy romance. The scenes change naturally and there's something about the way they're edited that made some scenes seem very fresh to me, though I've seen dozens and dozens of Rayne vids by now. Of course there is some cheesiness involved, mainly in the lyrics that seem a bit corny even for Jayne at times, but it's to look past this as the whole works so well otherwise.

Is rayne a 'one true pairing' for you? Do you like 80's love songs? Yeah, answering 'yes' to both really puts you in same situation with me. It's a pretty nifty video, if you give it a chance ;)

Favorite moments: 0:50-1:01

Jayne Cobb Hero Worship by RiverTam22

2007-08-11T15:06:11Z

Title: Jayne Cobb Hero Worship
Author: RiverTam22
Fandom: Firefly
Character: Jayne

Pros: Song fits, energetic
Cons: more booms on the booms?

{ xxx } Jayne is back... bigger, better, hotter and cooler. This is, imho, one of the best Jayne tribute videos out there. It captures everyone's favorite Jayne moments under a wicked song, that truly fits the character. We have Jayne acting cool, Jayne being an idiot, Jayne failing, Jayne succeeding... Well you get the picture. The video works very well as a whole and sounds and looks just like Jayne.

The editing is quick, but it only fits with the fast song. We see a lot of Jayne in glimpses, but the video isn't all about him: his crew also makes an appearance. The video starts with my personal favorite Jayne quote "Time for some thrilling heroics" and I can't imagine any other quote summing him up better. The video advances brilliantly, fitting appropriate images with the lyrics. The editing is probably at its best in the chorus, though it seems to tire a bit towards the end, fitting less "booms" with the "booms". This isn't disturbing though, just a minor beauty mistake.

I recommend strongly to Jayne fans. This vid always brings a smile on face and makes me miss him and the show more than ever. ^^

Favorite moments: whole deal

Crazy Chick by lilrosiecheeks

2007-08-11T15:01:23Z

Title: Crazy Chick
Author: lilrosiecheeks
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: Jayne/River

Pros: funny as hell, seamless editing
Cons: can't think of anything

{ xxx } One of my favorite Rayne videos - It's absolutely hilarious. Crazy Chick is an AU "story" that explains River's craziness by claiming she's actually in love with Jayne and this love is making her "a crazy chick". I love the choice of song, it fits very well. The editing is seamless, and has energy in its cuts that go with the perky song.

There isn't much else to say about this one. It's a fluent fanon pairing vid that'll enforce your love for them. It's re-watchable, even on a constantly loop (unless the song irks you ;) ). Otherwise it's a pretty neutral fan vid, because this one is made mainly for fun and has no serious thought or theme behind it. An enjoyable Rayne piece with light fun ♥ ♥

Favorite moments: 0:00-0:18

The Fragile by charmingsyrai

2007-08-11T14:45:23Z

Title: The Fragile
Author: charmingsyrai
Fandom: Firefly
Pairing: Mal/River

Pros: intense, haunting mood
Cons: minor beauty mistakes in editing

{ xxx } First off I must say that I don't ship this pairing. I'm a Rayne fangirl all the way, but the way this song and the scenes merge has made me see how Serenity actually has a lot of those subtle Mal/River moments. The song fits its subject perfectly; it's a narrative done by both Mal and occasionally River and seems to tell the story of her slowly falling deeper into her own insanity and him wanting to save her. This highlights their special connection that's seen thorough-out the movie.

The editing is superb, albeit minor mistakes appear. I love the way the beat of the song is edited to fit with River's moment. The lyrics are also highlighted by scenes that might not seem like the logical choice at first, but after a few viewings will get you to nod your head in agreement. The pacing gets quicker just as the song does, so there's no conflict there.

Overall the vid is very well made and gives you a lot of new connections to think of. It certainly warmed me to the thought of Mal/River. It was as if though I'd never seen certain scenes of the movie before. Solid, quality work.

Favorite moments: 0:18-0:40

Hellraiser: Beyond Elysium by AnonGrimm

2007-08-08T18:46:59Z

Title: Hellraiser: Beyond Elysium
Author: AnonGrimm
Fandom: Hellraiser
Pairing: Kirsty/Pinhead, etc.
Rating: NC-17
Summary: Pinhead takes in an orphan child of the Lemarchand bloodline, Lenore. In time, Pinhead returns her to the world, into the care of the one human who holds his fascination: Kirsty Cotton. Lenore has a mission, but she is also unknowing bait to lure Kirsty back to Hell. But Kirsty has recently met a woman named Joanne Summerskill, who might be pivotal in helping her stop Pinhead's plans.

Pros: hellraiser all the way, fits with canon beautifully
Cons: requires a lot of knowledge of the fandom in order to avoid spoilers

{ xxx } Beyond Elysium is a special Hellraiser fic in the sense that it fully utilizes most of the Hellraiser canon and brings the story to a satisfying end. Both Kirsty and Joey are featured as Pinhead's adversaries, and the Lemarchand bloodline also makes an appearance in the story. Elements from all movies are present and work better together than I'd have personally ever thought. This though leads to the fact the reader should be familiar with the movies 1-4, 6 and Clive Barker's original writings (Hellraiser's based on his novella a Hellbound Heart) since AnonGrimm bases the structrure of Hell on Barker's writings as well as mentions characters that're not mentioned in the movies.

The writing is superb. The characters are wonderfully IC, while they also reveal new layers of themselves. The story takes its time to build up and doesn't let you down at the climax one bit. Even the original characters are developed enough to fit in. The mood of the movies is definitely present and the fragile balance of a convincing Kirsty/Pinhead relationship is found. We have enough sex, blood and violence for any Hellraiser movie.

The story is addictive. It moves forward fluently, advancing very much like a chessgame between Kirsty and Pinhead. It's a pleasure to watch them circle one another, try and think of ways to defeat the other. This story also suggests actual feelings between them, him respecting her and her being drawn to him despite everything. Pinhead does indeed want Kirsty to join him in hell. Kirsty wants to win. And somewhere in this messed up relationship there's also the triangle between Joey/Elliott/Kirsty and Kirsty/Lenore/Pinhead. The bad guys aren't one dimensional and the good guys aren't necessarily all good either. Yeah, Kirsty's descisions during Hellseeker are also dealt here and she isn't purely an alruistic heroine this time around. This just makes her all the more interesting.

I guess what I'm trying to say is that this fic feels very much like the novel sequel, the endgame, to the movies. It's skillfully written and handles everything you were left wondering, still adding its own surprising flavour to the mix. It's fresh and familiar at the same time. Pretty much the best fic I've read for any fandom for a long time.

{ xxx } [quote]{When this life wearies you, perhaps you will taste my pleasures at last. But the longer you delay the more souls I shall demand. Will you see the blood of hundreds on your hands?}

{Why! Why me?} Her fists clenched as she asked the question.

{You are enticing – doesn’t it please you? You who shed blood in rage because one who should have loved you treated you as nothing? You have won the suit of the Prince of Hell, who would have you alone over the vast ranks of humanity.}

{I won’t hurt them. And I can keep away from you, demon.}

{Still running? A shame. Shall we see how long?} [/quote]

ABARIS’ ARROW by linda-seton

2007-07-14T22:10:39Z

Title: ABARIS’ ARROW
Alternative links: n/a
Author: linda-seton
Fandom: Smallville
Pairings and/or characters: Lex Luthor, Chloe Sullivan
Rating: PG-13
Summary: Chloe Sullivan acquires Roger Nixon's dossier on Lex Luthor

{ xxx }

Pros: Well written, character development and realistic in terms of their characters. Amaaaazing if you love Smallville fiction, and Lex Luthor character in particular
Cons: Perhaps a little too chilling in some parts (not the ‘T’ rating given in ff.net) and maybe it needs more detail in the ‘present’ sequences.

{ xxx } REVIEW

Reading this intrigued me. At first I kind of completely ignored it. The title and the summary seemed strange to me, but then I thought what the hey and damn, I’m glad I read it.

It sort of blows you away. If you’re an avid fan of the Lex Luthor character (pre-season 4 thank you) then you’ll love this. It focuses on the adolescent years of Lex and really, it explains a lot in terms of Lex’s character at that time (probably season 2, given the publishing date). The use of Chloe’s character makes sense; she’s not the nosey pokey bitch I’ve read in some fics (sacrilege!) but genuinely Chloe. The best thing about her character is the thing that reveals the most about Lex’s character. She’s afraid of him and despises the fact that she has these tapes considering it gives him a hold over her. Though this says a lot about her character, I find it says a lot more about Lex’s. It shows the parallel between what he was (as a teenager) and is now (as an adult).

The writing itself is amazing. Being through Chloe’s perspective mostly, you can understand why she would be hesitant and fearful. Lex is seen as dangerous and the way Linda writes the Kent family reactions shows that everyone thought he was.

The tape conversations between boy!Lex and the psychiatrists show how he develops, and the reactions Chloe has are highly justified. There’s one parting particular which is really really shocking and then it ends on a different note and you can’t help but agree with Chloe. From the fic and the way Linda’s written it, we aren’t shown much of adult!Lex which is why we can understand Chloe’s reactions. She cannot separate the boy from his father and that’s realistic.

I guess I kinda just feel bad for Lex. I really wish she had added more to adult!Lex, so we can see the difference between the two but she doesn't. It's still amazing though because it's purely character driven. Chloe does what she does because she's forced to by Lex's character, or what she thinks of Lex. Oh well. Read it. Please.

{ xxx }QUOTE

Having a logical mind, Chloe knows she is rationalizing. Nixon is evil because of his motives but she is completely innocent in this whole thing because she only wanted to find the truth.

Yippee, the truth.

“Great epitaph,” Chloe murmurs.

She fans herself feeling her face flush. Listening to that tape was completely unethical. Now, all she wants is to do the right thing.

But what is it? Take the tapes to the backyard BBQ and ignite them? And leave Lex wondering what had happened to the tapes. Return them to Lex with a mumbled apology about having only listened to one tape? Oh, yes, let’s return the tapes to the guy who put a bullet through the person who last had possession of them.

Ultimately, Chloe realizes that if Lex ever looks for the tapes he will find his way to her. And her LexCorp employed father.

WOMAN'S WORLD BY SVONNAH-LA-FAY

2007-06-14T06:09:00Z

Title: Woman's World
Author: svonnah-la-fay
Fandom: Original Fiction
Genre: Romance/Fantasy
Rating: R
Status: Complete
Summary: The classic Female-Domination story: In a world controlled by women, one young woman must overcome societal barriers as she grows closer to her new, abused slave, a romance that will eventually lead to world revolution.

Pro's: I like the attention to detail and originality, I enjoy the way she writes. It's also touching.
Con's: Its long, so be prepared to be devoted. Not to mention an even longer Sequel, and yet another Sequel after that one. I suppose it wouldn't be required to read all of them, now would it? ;)

{xxx} review.

Yet another one of my old time favorites, I think this is a very good read. The author is a very good writer and I think the way they manage to get the feelings across in this story is superb. Its not a hardcore lemony thing thats going to knock your socks off -- but rather it flows with mature sexuality and has its own taste of well written romance. The story revolves around a young woman, a Poetess whom throughout the story is not given a name, and her position in a Woman Dominated society. There, all women are the divine creators of life and men are not their equals, rather they are slaves, they are beneath them and all women follow this by the Goddess herself.

The Poetess holds a high rank in the society despite how young and naive she is, and this is obvious when she goes to get her first slave, ever. A little overwhelmed and driven by her sincerity, she must pick a slave to help her around her home. She picks one particular man whom does not speak, and not much is known about him. All she knows is that she feels deep sorrow for him and what obvious pain he has been through, and chooses him even though he is mute. Throughout the story you will deal with their growth and bond they develop, society and how it plays a vital role in their relationship, and the hardships the Poetess and her slave must go through to live on.

I think its a very touching, even poetic read that deserves two thumbs up. Even if it may be a bit more tame for my taste, I cannot deny my love for the slave and the connection that they end up sharing. Its so romantic *sigh*

yeah yeah.. I sap. END.

{xxx} quote.

“He’s never been chosen before –the muteness, you know. He’s worked in the kitchens, assembly, fields, paper plant, and… custodial,” she finally answered me. “A diversified career.”

The paper plant?

I looked more closely at him. He was my height, perhaps a fraction of an inch taller. He had mildly dark, messy hair that fell over his face, strands of which obstructed his eyes. He must not have undergone a grooming session in a very long time. Whether neglect or scheduling issues, I thought the length added to his appearance.

Beauty was always a prominent feature in the slaves. Over the generations, most undesirable traits were bred out of them -no woman would really ever select an ugly male. And so, naturally, he was attractive, but there was more. He would have been absolutely stunning, a truly magnificent sexual attraction (this was perhaps the reason he was put into this ‘elite’ group for my selection), but when he had looked up at me, his eyes were dark, serious with absence. It is written that eyes are windows to the soul. Their blank indifference ruined the overall effect.

“Where does he come from?”

“Nowhere.”

“What?” My eyes left his face and turned to Amaria, confused.

“He was found. It says he was found, age approximated at five years, unconscious by the road. Not even near a Nursery. Suspected of being an illegal.”

“An illegal?” I asked rhetorically. “I thought they’d been gone for years.”

“Apparently not.”

Again I looked at him, the stillness of his posture, the fearful way he dropped his head.

If these boys had been the puppies of the Center, this would have been the small, chocolate colored one in the corner, eyes large and almost weeping, too afraid of contact to approach.