Summer yet again sunk its claws into September and won’t let go. Can we really call it the first day of fall if it’s sunny and 90°F? It’s been a busy month full of celebrations mixed with some disappointment. I’m remaining thankful and seeking contentment.

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This month’s playlist:

Sailor Moon

I journeyed the entirety of Dragon Ball and Z. It only seemed fair to give Sailor Moon a fair shake. Folks, it’s great. Usagi’s adventures are just as formulaic as Goku’s. There’s comfort in that predictability--as long as the cast of characters is strong (and they are). Both series are remarkably similar in theme. Strength and perseverance are celebrated, but often what wins the day are sacrifice and gentleness. And both can swing from light comedy to startlingly intense drama.

I love that Usagi is not expected to be anything more than the young woman she is. She laughs and cries (her tears are key to her triumph in an early battle), she likes to play video games, and eat, and sleep, and hates to study. And she loves her friends. She and the other Sailor Guardians are only encouraged to be true to themselves, each other, and the world they protect. Goku would agree that’s all that’s necessary.

Peggy Sue Got Married

I watched The Godfather parts I-III on the big screen for the first time this month. You would think that would be my highlight. Surprisingly, it's this comedy by the same director better known for depicting organized crime and an esoteric odyssey set in the Vietnam War. This movie delighted me. Peggy Sue Got Married is silly, sweet, and sincere. Nic Cage is firing on all cylinders as a lovable dope, and Kathleen Turner is just fantastic.

Carmilla

A short, interesting tale that proceeds Dracula and a significant hole in my literary vampire reading list. Light on lore. The vampires here are obviously classical: undead inhabited by evil spirits, shapeshifters, can pass through locked doors, etc. Yet, they can walk freely in the sun. Though, Carmilla is depicted as lethargic during daylight hours. The sapphic tones are clear but somewhat waved off by the author--explaining this as the predator’s fixation on its prey. It’s unfortunate there hasn’t been a well-regarded screen adaptation yet.

Astro Bot

I LOVE IT! I’M HAVING SO MUCH FUN!! I SHOULD PLAY MORE 3D PLATFORMERS!!!

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This month I also spent way too much time on a presentation for a friend’s PowerPoint party which turned into my first YouTube essay, and released that music video I shot.