Review: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1

    Hey guys! Happy New Year! I hope your 2015 is full of as much awesomeness as possible. I thought I could start off 2015 with some new posts for this blog even though I've been practically neglecting it. To be honest I don't know for sure whether I'm going to continue with this blog; if I'm going to just pop in and out of it every so often or just abandon it altogether.  What I do know is I'm very grateful for the response to some of my posts when I was committed to this blog and it really has boosted my confidence to an extent. So thank you very much for that.

     Again, wherever I go with this blog still isn't clear to me and I hope for those of you who have found some kind of enjoyment from reading my stuff that I haven't really disappointed you or anything. If I have then I apologies. 

     All I can say now is lets hope for the best and if possible, I really hope I can provide some kind of commitment to this blog. Despite what some of you will understandably think, this blog really does mean something to me, being first ever blog-type thing and all. Anyway, to start off the new year I thought I would let you have a read at my half-decent review of said film in the title (I'm too lazy to type it again) that my awesome friends and I went to see in early December. If you haven't seen the film then read at your own expense as it does contain some mild spoilers. Or maybe you should just GO SEE THE MOVIE BECAUSE IT WAS SO GOOD! Enjoy! 

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-Part 1

                                                           

     The Hunger Games film series is based on the book series of the same name written by Suzanne Collins. Having grossed over $2 billion, it is the 17th highest grossing film franchise of all time. The film series has received critical success with praise being aimed at the film’s themes and messages. Praise has also been received for Jennifer Lawrence’s portrayal of the main protagonist Katniss Everdeen.

     The first film in the series entitled “The Hunger Games” (2012) set records for the opening day of the film’s release and also for the biggest opening weekend for a non-sequel film. The sequel “Catching Fire” was released in 2013 and set records for the biggest opening weekend for the month of November. The latest instalment to the series, "Mockingjay-Part 1" upon release was the largest opening day of 2014. In total the first two instalments have received 54 awards and 92 nominations.

     In Mockingjay- Part 1, the 75th annual Hunger Games has been concluded for some time and the revolution has begun. In District 13, the rebels work to take down the Capitol and President Snows dictatorship. Katniss is a reluctant representative of a revolution that she did not want to take place. Her relationships are put to the test as she takes on her role as the Mockingjay.

     The CGI’s and special effects were utilized very well throughout the duration of the film in realizing the setting and bringing it to life. Explosions are well timed and debris props are effectively used in creating a dramatic effect through the film. Adding to our understanding to the characters feeling of dread in the midst of a revolution.

     In comparison to the previous installments, Mockingjay- Part 1 instantly contrasts within the plot as unlike beforehand, a revolution is fully in motion. However despite the obvious contrasts between the plots of the films, there is one striking similarity. Although the Games are over, there still exists this necessity to form certain appearances to the districts in order to gain support. Though the aims are technically different, they do parallels with each other. Katniss was trying to survive the Hunger Games beforehand, now everyone is trying to survive the revolution. Katniss doesn't just take the responsibility to try and save Peeta but now the whole of Panem. Also another very significant contrast is the fact that before, both Katniss and Peeta were being used to represent the same side in the Hunger Games, now they each represent the opposing sides of the revolution. Also the new perception that Katniss representing the rebels as the Mockingjay and Peter representing the Capitol as both being weapons, reinforces the sudden change of significance in their role and a dramatic change from the Games to the revolution.

     Music without any doubt adds the revolutionary feel to the film. Bringing great scale to the events taking place but despite such dominating, arresting music they still manage to instantly change the feel of the film with more subtler, emotional music. Katniss goes hunting in the woods like she used to before the Games which is accompanied with much sweeter music and would trick anyone late for the film that this was an entirely different movie. Even Jennifer Lawrence's performance of the song "The Hanging Tree" produced by James Newton Howard is surprisingly to a good standard and despite being very repetitive, does add something to the film. The later half of the song, when she is accompanied by backing singers and we see the work of the rebels on screen, it feels like a song of the people and almost builds up the idea that she is the voice of the people fighting against the Capitol.

     Furthermore, in terms of character development what the film does more often than not isn't give us a whole new perspective as such or develop what we know about the characters but strengthens what traits we now them by. Those of us who have read the previous books or watched the films will know of Katniss's determination to protect Peta and her family. When she makes her demands that must be met for her to take on the role of the Mockingjay, one of the few she makes is that Peta be saved from the Capitol. Despite the current situation and even though he seems like a traitor to some at points in the film, her determination to save him does not change. Katniss undeniably cares for her family, more so her sister than her mother. When everyone is being evacuated to the bunker, Katniss risks her life and goes back to save her sister and even when she confronts the main antagonist President Snow, she states that all she really cares about is Peta and her sister. To no surprise Katniss receives the most attention as is emphasised when she visits the tons suffering from the revolution and yet still support her. Reinforcing her inability to understand why people like her when she is so used to be anti-social like in the prior films. Minor characters such as Effie, Katniss and Peeta's escort in the Games as well as the escort of district 12, were used to luxury and fame and now we see her disapproval to having to adapt to poorer conditions. To some it may have been a surprise she was on the side of the revolution and without makeup which adds to her character and we see how much she really cares about Katniss. Prim, Katniss' sister, in her brief appearance responds to her sisters love with the same kind of commitment in previous films when she tries to give Katniss some advice. Gale, a "friend" of Katniss, develops our understanding of his feelings for her and that despite feeling unappreciated by Katniss, he still cares for her greatly. The President of District 13, where the revolution is based, is a character that is open to new ideas but quite often only when her hand is pushed and we can see how she does not enjoy decisions over her people being almost decided for her.

     Subthemes are another factor in what makes Mockingjay-Part 1 as well as the Hunger Games series as a whole so effective. Despite the feeling of a revolution very much emphasized throughout the films, there is an element of war. When there is an attack on District 13 and everyone evacuates to the bunker: rumbling sounds and large vibrations in the building begin to resemble those who took cover in shelters during the First and Second World War. Even though this is set in some distant, unknown future the audience is able to relate to it to an extent. In addition when the characters mock Prims cat for their own amusement, this exemplifies how Peeta is being unfairly treated by the Capitol and is only be treated so horribly to mock Katniss.

     To conclude, Mockingjay-Part 1 is perhaps the greatest achievement in the series so far but also a great one in film-making. As the movie comes to a close, the rebels have achieved their main aims before they go on a final push to take down the Capitol and President Snows dictatorship. The revolution has become much more personal for Katniss once she has witnessed the brutal treatment of Peeta and sees him in a way she never has before. Fans of The Hunger Games will have to wait for the final installment to the series in November 2015 to see if all the characters preparation were not in vain and whether any of the characters will escape unscathed, Only time will tell and may the odds be ever in their favor

Also if you weren't already aware I am obsessed with TUMBLR now and I do post a bit more regularly on that so if you want to have a look at my stuff and maybe follow me on it then great! 

http://blogprofessoroswald.tumblr.com/

Geronimo!

Stephen. 

Facts About Me (Tumblr edition)

     Hey guys, I'm not really going to get into everything such as why I have been absent for so long (once again) but all you need to know at the moment is that I  don't want to give up on this blog so hopefully this post will help work to more new posts in the near future. 

     I've been wanting to get a bit more personal for a while. So here's some questions about myself that I answered, so now you can get to know me a little better. These particular questions came from Tumblr and I wanted to make that clear in case I decide to do something similar again just from this blog alone. Also the idea of a "Tumblr edition" sounds really cool for some reason.  I would really appreciate if any of you had a look at my Tumblr and followed it if you really want to. Hopefully I'll give you something else to read soon. DFTBA! 

http://blogprofessoroswald.tumblr.com/

1.Do you want a boyfriend or girlfriend?

Yup. Yeah. Yes. Affirmative. Qui. 

2.When did your last hug take place?

Last night when I was out with my friends

. 

3.Are you a jealous person?

I can be quite jealous at times but I wouldn't call myself a jealous person,no. 

4.Are you tired right now?

Not overly tiered. 

5.Do you chew on your straws?

I don’t recall doing that. 

6.Have you ever been called a tease?

I may have been called something along those lines

. 

7.Have you ever been awake for 48 hours straight?

Oh dear no! Although I have stayed up for about 24 hours a few times. 

8.Do you cry easily?

I did when I was young, as well as most other people tbh. I have only ever cried twice when watching a film so far. 

9.What should you be doing right now?

Preparing for a stupid Modies nab tomorrow! UGH! 

10.Are you a heavy sleeper?

I can be sometimes.  

11.Do you THINK you can last in a relationship for 6 months?

I would like to think so. 

12.Are you mad at someone right now?

I don’t think so. 

13.Do you believe in love?

Yeah totally. What’s life without love (sorry not sorry)? 

14.What makes you laugh no matter what?

Friends (TV Show). 

15.Who was the last person you talked to?

My mum.  

16.Do you get butterflies around the person you like?

Oh yes! 

17.Will you get married?

Hopefully. 

18.When was the last time you smiled?

A few minutes ago while watching Strictly Come Dancing( don’t judge me). 

19.Does anyone like you?

I would hope so. 

20.Do you secretly like someone?

Depends who I’m talking to I guess, but yeah. 

21.Who was the first person you talked to today?

My Gran. 

22.Who do you feel most comfortable talking to about anything?

Not gonna lie that’s a tricky one. If I’m perfectly honest I couldn't choose just one person. However I would have to say some of my Nerdfighter/ Youtuber friends especially. 

23.What are you NOT looking FORWARD to?

Apart from prelims and exams obviously, I’m really not looking forward to leaving school. I’m so used to seeing my friends five days a week I don’t feel ready to give it up yet. 

24.What ARE you looking forward to?

CHRISTMAS!!!! 

25.Has someone of the opposite sex ever told you they loved you, and meant it?

Nah.

26.Suppose you see your ex kissing another person what would you do?

Nothing. 

27.Do you plan on moving out within the next year?

Definitely not. The earliest I would want to move house would be at the end of Uni (if I get there hopefully). 

28.Are you a forgiving person?

Yes I think so. 

29.How many TRUE friends do you have?

I really don’t know tbh. I feel like I’ve got quite a few actually but some people I can be undecided about at times. 

30.Do you fall for people easily?

Sometimes. 

31.Have you ever fallen for your ex’s best friend?

Nope.

32.What’s the last thing you put in your mouth?

I’m about to eat some crisps if you REALLY need to know. XD

33.Who was the last person you drove with?

My friend and her parents after I went on a trip to the Scottish Parliament. 

34.How late did you stay up last night and why?

About 1ish because I was watching GREYS ANATOMY! 

35.If you could move somewhere else, would you?

I wouldn’t like to move but if for some reason I really had to/wanted to I would like to live in London. 

36.Who was the last person you took a picture of?

Do two Husky dogs count? XD

37.Can you LIVE a day without TV?

NO!

38.When was the last time you were EXTREMELY disappointed?

I think it was two weeks ago when I didn’t get chosen for a Journalism course. 

39.Three names you GO by…

Stephen, Steve and Step-hen (reluctantly). 

40.Are you currently in a relationship?

Unfortunately not.

41.What is your all-time favourite romance movie?

It has to be The Fault in Our Stars!  

42.Do you believe that everyone has a soul-mate?

I don’t use the term “soul-mate” personally but the idea that there are people (not just one) that are well suited for everyone then yeah. 

43.What’s your current problem?

Having to think about preparing for the Modies nab! 

44.Have you ever had your heart broken?

Kind of? 

45.Your thoughts of long distance relationships?

I’m not very fond of them myself but I really admire those who are involved in that and are able to work it out. 

46.How many kids do you want to have?

I’m not 100% certain on whether I want kids or not but if I did then I would have three at the very most. 

47.Have you ever found it hard to tell someone you like them?

You have no idea! 

                                                   Geronimo!

                                                     Stephen.

Nerdfighter Forever (English Reflective Essay)

    Hello all and I have finally been able to sum up something for you lovely people to read. I have been rather lazy as this is something that I have previously written and not something that I prepared recently. It is also very much similar to a post I made some time ago about the Nerdfighters and this essays title was even inspired by said post. However I do believe this to be a slightly more interesting read. I had planed to post this for a while but it was only when my teacher had checked it that it became definite. This Reflective Essay serves as another part of my coursework for English that makes up a certain percentage of my overall exam mark.
     My exams are still going on at the moment and they have caused me a considerable amount of stress on the day but to my great surprise I have been generally feeling calm about it all and I do hope this continues. I know I did say I would unlikely post anything until after the exams but I found this oppurtuity and was determined to pursue it. I would advise you to read this article first before you read my other article about Gun Control in America as it is far more serious and may not be a topic some of you enjoy hearing/reading about. Anyway, I do hope you enjoy my essay and that any of you sitting exams at the moment are seeing good results.

                                                 Nerdfighter Forever

     In a world where Nerds are not fully accepted, I have often felt like a stowaway in an unfamiliar place. Simply expressing a different view or behaving differently to that of a stereotypical guy, suddenly became the opportunity for ridicule. However, my sense of isolation came to its conclusion when in the February of 2013, I was introduced to a group known as “Nerdfighters.” Do not be fooled, from the title you may have come to the assumption that this is a group that “fights Nerds.” It is in fact quite the opposite. The group itself was formed by author John Green and his brother Hank Green (A.K.A Vlogbrothers). The purpose of Nerdfighters, is so that Nerds can gather together and share in their obsession over TV programmes, books, cakes and so on. Another concept of the group is to “increase awesome” and “decrease world suck.” In other words, to make the world a little bit better. It is also the belief of the group, that any member is not made of organs or cells, but are made of awesome, that being awesome is a part of their biology. 

     With many smaller groups falling under the Nerdfighter category, I myself had joined “We are Nerdfighters.” Upon joining the group on facebook, anxiety had a firm grasp on me. I felt like an outcast, that I was not worthy, nor would a hand of acceptance be offered to me. Was I of a good enough standard to match my new title? I later, found myself pleasantly mistaken, when complete strangers soon became my dearest friends. 

     The very first of many Nerdfighter gathering in Glasgow Central, I was relieved to have one familiar face that I could retreat to, if this went horribly wrong. It was also nice that it had been an old friend, that I don't see as often since they moved school. However, my luck seemed to have turned upside down when they had to depart early. I was left alone with these strangers and grew wary of how the events of the day would unfold. It's hard to describe how surprised I was by how much it differed to my expectations. The people were almost unlike anyone I had ever met, I couldn't help but question where these amazing people had been all my life. Not only was it difficult to come to terms with the great extent of things I had in common with them, but trying to remember all their names was not easy. A lot of the time I had to avoid any situation that required me to speak someone’s name. After the gathering, I felt a confidence within me that I don't think I had ever felt before. On facebook, I added a whole list of people I had only met once, even some of them I hadn't met yet but I felt certain that I would get on well with them. 

     Thinking about that first gathering, I can't help but see as being almost surreal. For most people, the first time they met one of their friends was when the bond between them was formed and essentially that’s what happened at the gathering and yet it felt almost completely different. They didn't feel like the strangers that had turned into friends, but those close friends that I had known for years and felt comfortable with. What exactly was going on: was this the answering of a prayer, a simple coincidence, something of the supernatural or was it in fact, another thing that is well worth living for? 

     The amount of things I have done with these people, I have done without much of a second thought and some I never thought I would ever have done until I met these people. I have told them things, that I haven't even told my family or friends that I have known since Primary. It's so easy for me to tell them my problems and for them to listen, and the funny thing is, when I'm with them I often don't feel I have any problems to tell. 

     A system was later developed after the first gathering , that we would meet every second week at the weekend. Many more gatherings came after this one; with each gathering brought more new members. With more new members, brought more Nerdiness, more laughter, more hugs and at one point, more people to consider a second family. Bonds are so instantaneous within the group, that we all desire to win the lottery, so we can buy a big house and all live together. This desire is much stronger than at first glance, for a number of the members don't live in Glasgow, but a considerable distance outside it. 

     Together we have hugged Daleks, visited museums, sang the song of angry men, danced with great enthusiasm (but with no skill), spray painted our hair the colour of the TARDIS and many other activities. They may seem like a bore to some people, but bring joy and excitement to that of a Nerd. 

     Within this group, are people I hold as my dearest friends and the fact that we live so far away from one another, feels like the evil plot twist in a book to upset the readers. With each gathering, I can escape from my troubles; I have nothing to be sad about. The whole experience, what has past and what is to come, feels like the thrilling book you never want to stop reading. These people are the main reason that allow me to feel good about myself. I would miss an episode of Doctor Who for them (which means they are very important to me, ask anyone)? This essay isn't justice to how much I care about them, but as long as you get the just of it then volia. Therefore, in the words of a Nerdfighter, DFTBA (don't forget to be awesome).

                                                Geornimo!
                                                  Stephen.

Gun Control in America (English Discursive Essay)

     Bonjour! I was very much enthusiastic to post this essay and my Nerdfighter essay for you to read as both are ones that I am reasonably proud of. Also to revive anyone who may have been so kind as to wait this long for another post from myself. Apart from the article I posted about Equal Marriage written by my good friend Elizaebth, this is the only serious article that I have posted on my blog. I am very much opinionated in a lot of things, especially moral issues that go on around the world and do enjoy expressing my views in debates.
     This Discursive Essay is part of my English coursework that makes up a percentage of my overall exam mark. I have very strong morals and though I don't normally identify myself as such, I am very much a pacifist. It is my belief that no one has the right to decide when someone dies to suit their own means and the issues that revolve around things such as gun ownership in America or the death penalty as an example that infuriates me. Of course we should respect other peoples views and not hate them based on a view they have, but I must admit I would find it very difficult if I were to encounter anyone strongly in favor of these unmoral acts.  Hopefully you will be able to find this an interesting read and that it may help anyone who is uncertain on the topic to form a more informed opinion. 

     

                                         Gun Control in America 

“By our readiness to allow our arms to be purchased at will and fired at whim...we have created an atmosphere of which violence and hatred have become popular pastimes.”- Martin Luther King Jr 

     The use of guns is something I have never been able to justify as morally right. It is common knowledge that America has the highest gun ownership in the world, and yet Americans can't summon the sense to bring an end to this obsessive need to arm themselves In 2011, the number of guns related deaths in America reached nearly 33,000; can anyone in the right state of mind justify such needless deaths? It is my belief that there should be no debate over gun control, it should just be. 

     The banning of guns will save lives rather than giving people the easy means to kill. Such has been proven in Australia (1986), after 650,000 autonomic and semi-automatic guns were destroyed as well as controls and checks put into place, there was a 59% drop in gun related homicides in the first decade of the law. Mass shootings also fell from eleven a decade to zero. Some may argue that guns don't kill people, people kill people and they are technically right, but a person with a gun is going to kill many more people than someone without a gun. Putting gun control into place would also mean that the Government could focus on reducing other means of murder other than with guns. 

     Another argument for gun control, is that America already has an insane number of guns. 270 million guns are owned by civilians and only 897,000 are carried by police. Imagine how many lives are possibly in danger with so many weapons available to the general public? The frightening thing for people to come to terms with, is that this is more guns per capita than in countries such as Pakistan or Afghanistan. Any Latin American country such as Mexico or Columbia that are overrun with drug cartels and murder rates comparable to war zones have fewer gun ownerships. Even literal war zones such as Somalia have fewer people with guns. If you are more inclined to arm yourself than a failed nation with an average life expectancy of 50 years old then action must be taken to reduce this alarming result. 

     Furthermore, more guns offer more people the opportunity to commit suicide. In an article by the Boston Globe, they bring up the point that people may be under the assumption that someone killing themselves would require a lot of thought put into planning it, but study after study indicate that it is more of a spur on the moment thing than something that involves rational thinking. Therefore a lack of access to any form of guns could be the difference between life and death for some people. The “National Centre for Health Statistics” actually states that gun related suicides are the highest than all other methods combined. According to the same article, states in America with a high level of gun ownership have a suicide rate double that of a state with low gun ownership. Another fact to consider, is that anyone who has committed suicide is seventeen times likely to have a gun at home than to not have one. Despite the assumption made by people that gun owning states have mental health issues, research made by “Harvard Injury Control Research Centre” shows that this is false and despite them being as miserable as people in other states, they are still anywhere between two to ten times more likely to kill themselves. 

     On the other hand, one of the arguments posed against gun control is that apparently now is not the time to talk about guns. It is typical for the topic of guns to be brought up after a mass shooting, but at the time of the Netwon shooting, Press Secretary Jay Carney said we should just leave families to mourn. Of course respect should be given to anyone who has lost a loved one to a gun, but to fully understand the events of a shooting and understand if it could have been prevented, then there must be talk about guns. Sixty-two mass shooting have taken place between 1982-2012 and forty-nine of them were with legal weapons. How many more people have to die for guns to be banned? It sickens me when change only happen around the world when someone dies, and yet people in America are still so blindingly ignorant that they can't understand the lack of sense in guns being so accessible to the public. 

     To conclude, I believe Gun Control is the answer to decrease the number of gun related deaths in America. The use of guns have no moral ground and the innocent lives of other people will continue to be at risk until guns are taken away from civilians. If one mass shooting after the other does not make the American people see sense, then I worry as to what will. I can only hope Barak Obama will persist at reducing the availability of guns and in doing so, will hopefully insure the American people a safer society to live in: 

“We do not need guns and bombs to bring peace, we need love and compassion.”- Mother Teresa

                                                     Geronimo!
                                                      Stephen. 

Some Time Away

     You'll already be well aware of the gaps between each of my posts and that I am struggling to write anything creatively at the moment. Also with my dreaded exams coming, they fail to escape my mind for long. So I don't think I'm going to have time to write anything until after my exams, so I wouldn't get your hopes up for any kind of post before the end of May.

     In other news, 17th March marks the day I have turned 16. So I can now do number of things, such as buying a goldfish. I had an awesome weekend with two groups of my friends. I got to see "The Lego Movie" (it's (awesome by the way), I got some great gifts and just had a really fun time. Then on the Monday the fun times continued and I found my day at school to be surprisingly unstressful. 

      Anyway, so you wont be hearing from me for a while but I hope you are all feeling well and if any of you are going to be sitting exams soon I do hope that they prove to be successful. 

                                                    Geronimo! 

                                                      Stephen. 

Paddy Black: My Interesting Discovery

     Hello everyone, I hope you are all well and I am well aware that I have deprived you of anything to read on this blog for a while and on a number of occasions. This is not a post to justify that, as there wouldn't be very much to say, I have just struggled to write anything. I do have a few posts that are still a work in progress, even then, I just haven't been able to find the inspiration to write. The stress that school alone has put on me, with my final exams drawing ever so closer I hope you wont blame me for not having the blog fully on my mind.
    Only, when the blog has been on my mind, I have felt determined to produce something on it and often had no result. Luck presented itself as an old personal reflective essay I wrote in third year, when we had to write about ourselves and it was when my teacher suggested that I could write about an interesting discover I had made that brought this essay to life. I thought it might be of interest to you and I was quite relieved to be honest-that I wouldn't have the added pressure of thinking up a whole post from scratch.
     I have been known to have some confidence issues, I do sometimes contradict myself when I'm trying to write or whatever, even now when I look back at these paragraphs, I don't like how slightly cheesy or simplistic it is, but I'm not going to focus my attention on it. Even this essay isn't greatly written, but I am quite happy with it and it would be wrong to change it, take away the history from it. So yeah, here's a little look into my past and I hope you enjoy your visit.

                                     Personal Reflective Essay

   
      In this essay, I shall tell you of my interesting discovery that took me back about 100 years in the past. To do with the great work of my great, great, great, great uncle Paddy Black, as a missionary. Included in this essay is also what happened before and to lead up to this, and how this interesting discovery affected me afterwards.
     It was late Saturday evening, less than two years ago.Midnight was close to taking center stage; my grandmother and I watched T.V and I was determined to not allow the unsatisfactory programs, push me to go to my bed. One thought stood in my mind; one that managed to grasp my attention on many occasions. Do I belong to a creative family? With my interests in creative writing and notable work in that area, had this surge of creativity been passed down from previous relatives? Also, had one of my relatives made a significant mark in their time? The best I received from my gran was that an old relative of mine who was a well know folk singer; surely my family be more interesting than that? Luck stroke midnight.
     My grandmother had a blurry memory of some uncle; she had trouble placing whether he was an uncle to me or her. She carried to tell me of a man named Paddy Black, who did good work as a missionary many years ago. My ears captured every word and my mind was intrigued to know more. We lost all hope to finding every detail from the files of her brain so the internet became the last resort. My vigorous fingers typed his name into the laptop; my eyes grew disappointment as the only links that came up were brand names for different products. Luck stroke again when a link called “Paddy Black Memorial Mission”, guided my way into my uncle’s time.

     The year was 1906, the sound; nothing. The fact that no sound accompanied the video reinforced the idea of how old it was.At this time in the 20th century, being poor was almost a “trend” of the age. Children would be found shoe-less; their bare feet poisoned by the damp concrete pavement caused by the typical rain of Glasgow. It was a rare thing for families to visit the park or the countryside, as they were so far away. Just like money was far from being grasped in their hands. Paddy Black decided to make a difference; with the donations of the community, he was successful in taking 250 children from the Gorbals to the countryside. Sixteen years later (1922) he excelled to an even greater achievement. Again, with donations, my great uncle managed to take 2,500 children to the park. Supplied with pastry and milk in a small paper bag they called a “purvey”. It was such a rare happening, that they turned it into a joyous event. The whole journey taken was like a massive parade. What sadden me the most was that I was unable to her the sound of the marching bands or the children being carried in horse carts and Lorries. Behind me, I could hear my grans childish laughter and began to appreciate the saying “make your own entertainment” more when my gran pointed out some of the things she did as a child which they did as well. Another notable fact which sadden me, was that the food given to them would probably be the only meal the consumed that day. Even now, I still puzzle on what park they went to. It was humorous, as despite the cramped conditions, everyone still enjoyed themselves. As the video drew to an end, I felt he very barley featured in the film; giving the impression that despite everything he did, praise was not his aim.
     Once I had finished digging into my great uncles past, my grandmother showed her gratitude. Then, some weeks later, I gifted my mother and father with the rare look into the past. My parents were also very grateful, in the knowledge that even now, Paddy Black makes people happy. After watching the video, I knew comfort was assured once I went to bed. My path towards the dream world would not be blocked by any upsetting thoughts.
     To conclude, my deep look into the past offered me a new perspective of my relatives and of that time period. I try to take every opportunity to inform people of his work and how significant it was in his time, even though it may not seem so significant now. Sometimes I feel like it is my duty to honor his name. I remember the past and feel that I must do more to help others. He wasn't a hero, he wasn't a folk singer, he wasn't a soldier; I’m glad he wasn't because that makes his work all the more significant. He was Paddy Black, the missionary and he was my interesting discovery. 

                                                                

                                                 Geronimo!

                                                  Stephen!

A Tribute to Elizabeth Sladen: My Sarah Jane

     February 1st, marks the birthday of the late Elizabeth Sladen who sadly passed away on April 21st 2011. Best known for her portrayal of companion Sarah Jane Smith in Doctor Who, she become a role model to millions of people. The journalist entered the Whoniverse when she encountered The Third Doctor (Jon Pertwee) in the serial "The Time Warrior" in 1973, which was also the first ever appearance of the classic monster The Sontarens, and revealed the name of The Doctors home planet as being Gallifrey. Sarah Jane redefined the role of the companion, from being rather helplessly hysteric to being a feisty, opinionated, strong, equal to The Doctor and elements of her can be seen in every companion afterward, down to current companion Clara Oswald. At that time, that was not the role a companions or women were meant to play. It was an extraordinary thing to do at the time, before Liz Sladen, they played the victim or were just used as decoration, but what she did with the character showed women as equals to men. As recurring Doctor Who writer Toby Whitehouse says: "we forget how revolutionary she was at the time." 

     In the series 11  final "Planet of the Spiders" (1974) viewers bid farewell to another Doctor and welcomed Tom Baker to take over as The Fourth Doctor. Sarah Jane continued to travel with our favorite timelord, where  she met four of the most iconic monsters/villains in Doctor Who in Tom's first series alone: The Daleks, The Cybermen, The Sontarens and Davros. In the following series she met a fan favorite The Zygons, in their first and last appearance until the 50th Anniversary Special last year.  It was the next series in which Sarah Jane had her final adventure with The Fourth Doctor in "The Hand of Fear" before she had to leave because The Doctor had been summoned to Gallifrey by the timelords and no human was allowed entrance. She was brought back to her hometown in South Croyden,,,when in actual fact, she found herself in Aberdeen. Oh Doctor.

      Thirty decades and five Doctors later, 2005 brought the relaunch of the much loved Sci-fi drama after having been cancelled for sixteen years. In 2006, David Tenants first series as the Tenth Doctor entailed a reunion with Miss Smith, and a particular metal dog. K9 was a robot dog that joined The Doctor and Sarah as well other companions on many adventures, before a new model of K9 was given to Sarah in episode three "School Reunion" after he had sacrificed himself to defeat the bat like Krilitains. Despite an offer to travel through time and space once more, she declined, as she had come to realize there were plenty of adventures to have on Earth... defeating aliens, unironically. Before her return once again in the series four final "The Stolen Earth" and "Journeys End" Russel T Davies created a spin-off show in 2007, all about the journalist. Defending aliens with her adopted clone son Luke and his friends on Bannoman Road. 2009 leading into 2010 brought the final battle of Ten and in her brief glimpse of The Doctor before he left, it was only a stare that told her he was going to change and brought tears to fans eyes. Her final onscreen adventure with The Doctor was with our beloved bow tie wearing Eleventh Doctor in 2010... at his funeral, well sort of.  

     One year later, family, freinds and fans of all ages were devastated to hear the news that she had lost her battle with cancer at the age of 61. Two days before the start of series six, and straight after the episode aired, a special dedicated to her was aired on CBBC. Elizabeth Sladen changed Doctor Who for the better, and even for fans a new, she immediately sealed herself onto our hearts. Her acting ability was unmatched, in the smallest of scenes, she made them feel big. One tear from Sarah Jane left fans completely heartbroken and a moment of chuckles filled them with joy.  Elizabeth Sladen was an absolute sensation, she really was and she will continue to be remembered as such, because it is no exaggeration. Thank you. Thank you Elizabeth Sladen not for just being an amazing actress and role model to millions of people, but for being my Sarah Jane: "t'ill we meet again Sarah." 

                                                         Geronimo! 

                                                          Stephen. 

Happy New Year: 2014

     Happy New Year everyone. I hope 2014 will bring you all many days of awesomeness.  At the start of the new year, we recollect on the great times we had in the past year as well as all the hardships, and some people may think it best to not look at the worst parts of the year gone by but in a way, isn't that the whole point? Humans cannot help themselves but dwell on any worries they had, any lingering regrets, any mistakes made, etc. However, when looking over the hardships we have faced over the year, we recall what helped us survive them; what helped us defeat them; what helped us reach today and still have the energy to face the next day. We look at the aid that was given to us in our hours of need, and we use it to help us develop, to help us fight any obstacles that we come across and help us become better people.
     2013 was not only a special and significant year for me, but for billions of other people all over the world. To name a few things that have made a big impact on 2013: Doctor Who's 50th Anniversary (including the departure of Matt Smith as The Eleventh Doctor and the introduction of Peter Capaldi as the Twelth), the sad passing of the wonderful Nelson Mandela, the birth of a new royal baby to be third in line for the throne, the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson, the typhoon that hit the Philippines  and so much more.
     2014 will be the bringer of many significant events. The Commonwealth in my home city of Glasgow; the Scottish  Independence referendum on September 18th; series 8 of Doctor Who with Peter Capaldi taking over as The Doctor and the third Scottish actor to play the role; after a two year wait Sherlock series 3 starts on January 1st at 9pm; Winter Olympics to be held in Russia and so on.
      Obviously living in Scotland, the first two upcoming events of 2014 to which I mentioned, will have a great affect on my day to day life. I have no doubt that the Commonwealth will be a great event and will make me proud to be Scottish. As for the vote for or against independence, I will be 16 by the time that the voting starts, so I will be eligible to vote and I personally will vote no for Scottish Independence.  I wont start ranting about it or try and persuade any Scottish readers to agree with me, but all I'll say is that I just feel we are stronger as a  part of the UK Anyway, though I may still be heartbroken by the departure of The Eleventh Doctor, I excitedly await for the proper arrival of The Twelth Doctor and anticipate what the next 50 years of Doctor Who will bring.
      I have had many very special moments in 2013, some that I will hold close to my heart for many years to come but I have also suffered many difficult situations. It was a great surprise for me to have made so many more friends, I thought after 2nd year that process of making new friends will draw dormant, whereas in actual fact upon joining Nerdfighters I met tons of people who I now hold as my dearest friends and even at school as well I have been given more friends. Maybe the multitude of friends I have made are more than I deserve? Whether or not this is true, I am still hugely grateful to have met them. Obviously, with Doctor Who being very special to me 2013 was an extra special year for myself and other Whovians; since being brought into the Whoniverse in 2005 the show has significantly changed my life and I have loved every minute of the show. There were a number of occasions that really hit me hard, but most of the time I had someone who supported me and I am truly grateful for their help. Finally, having done my first Prelims at the start of December and having done fairly well, I try to forget the stress that they gave me and try to look forward to the nearing final exams with more optimism.
       2013 is a year that I will definitely remember fondly more so than I might look back with regret and I hope that 2014 will come to the same standards, if not more. I hope you as well share how I feel, and that any hardships you have faced in the past year, will be left behind and you can start afresh in 2014. Happy New Year, lets all make 2014 one worth celebrating.
                                                           
                                                Geronimo!
                                                  Stephen.