#WhoIsIt? Alternate Theories

April 9, 2016April 9, 2016michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

My Walking Dead Alternate #WhoIsIt Theories

Let’s go one by one- from the TV viewer’s POV left to right:

Glenn-

Steven Yeun’s “Glenn Rhee” is on the receiving end of the bat in the comics. And so for some fans he appears to be the obvious choice. But I’m not too sure he’s that obvious anymore. It really could be anybody at this point. No one is safe. That is the whole point of Negan’s speech. That when you think you are safe, you aren’t. The Walking Dead has an intense history of spinning off from the comics and tricking you when you think you know where they’re going, they “take a sharp left.” Gimple has even been quoted saying in this specific comic arc, that they would be “taking a sharp left.” If it is Glenn, it allows fans to be satisfied with a comic book ending and will give them their huge epic scene they’ve been waiting for. *I don’t read the comics, but I’ve known about this death scene, and quite frankly I can live without it. I love Glenn too much, to rally for that death scene to play out the exact way it does in the comics. I could care less. Yea I get shock value, and I get the blood and gore quota has to be met on this show, inadvertently we as fans do want to be surprised and see the gore, but shock me with someone else’s death.

If it does end up being Glenn that mega death fake out showrunners put us through in the beginning half of this 6th season was a complete waste of time, energy and anxiety. Unless that is their plan, to make us think it won’t be Glenn and then it is. He’s had far too many near death experiences throughout the show, but especially this season. He’s lucked out a lot, so could it be that his luck has finally run out just as he is about to become a dad? SADDEST THOUGHT EVER!

It’s safe to say I won’t be able to get over that one! Maggie and Glenn are the main love story, they drive that show in a very special way for me. And we all love them, I don’t think their story is done. I swear Scott Gimple’s going to be getting my bill for the therapy sessions I’m going to need, or at least supply me with a lifetime of chamomile tea to calm my nerves as I watch this show every week.

If it is Glenn the cliffhanger allows the series to get months in between the decision to mirror the events of the comic and keep people guessing. According to THR Gimple previously stated that he “would not be too proud” if he “chumped” the brutal scene. Yea sure but that could just mean the brutality is intact, but the character doesn’t have to be. Anyone who gets their head smashed in would warrant some kind of reaction.

I sincerely hope they wouldn’t keep Glenn alive just to end up killing him at the end of the season. It would break the show into pieces for us to have to mourn Glenn just as Maggie announced her pregnancy with their child. Not to mention that Glenn has had little screen time as of late and Maggie and Glenn have had little screen time as a couple. The constant separation between the two, and having to look for each other and fight for their family can’t end like this. I just don’t accept it. I can’t. The Walking Dead has a reputation of deviating from the comics and so I sincerely hope they keep that up when it comes to Glenn’s supposed death. However, the creators, writers and directors could have concluded that we’d think Glenn is safe because he’s neared death quite a few times this season, so they could shock us and really leave it Glenn. Quite honestly given the logic I used in my Michonne theory, I don’t see it being Glenn. I just don’t think Maggie and Glenn are in positions to allow that to go down without a fight considering when Negan raised the bat to Maggie offering to “take her out of her misery,” Glenn basically freaked the F out.

Glenn and Maggie are a driving force as a whole. Their story still has a ways to go. And Glenn’s whole philosophy has been about maintaining who he is in this world, regardless of having to deal with walkers. He does know how to survive and he has more to offer to the story. He watched Nicholas take his own life, he cheated death several times, he’s becoming a father and he just recently made his first human kills this season. I as a viewer want to see Glenn attempt to deal with this. And I want my #1 TWD Romance to be kept intact.

Rosita-

Just had her heartbroken and is healing it by messing around with Spencer who’s back in Alexandria. She’s a firey, tough latina, and although everyone’s waiting to see if she and Sasha have a throw down over Abraham, while she makes her way over and into a love affair with Eugene, she’s certainly not a main character. Although according to Denise she’s alone. Although her death wouldn’t cause me too much grief, I am interested in seeing how the rest of her story plays out. But she was one of the 4 held so could her POV be the POV of the person who gets a bat to the head. I’d say she’s highly unlikely.

Daryl-

Norman Reedus as Daryl Dixon – The Walking Dead _ Season 6, Episode 6 – Photo Credit: Gene Page/AMC

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Um, is he even an option? I mean really, Scott Gimple? Don’t mess with me. Are you trying to wage a war against the fans? Try us, we will RIOT! Yes, both Daryl and Glenn are in that van when we see the POV shots throughout the episode. However, if you again, look at my Michonne theory, Daryl is clearly the first to exit the van, as he was wounded and slumped down in the van, sitting on the floor. The POV shots include the top of what appears to be Daryl’s head. Besides I’d say Negan knows all about Daryl considering Dwight has come into contact with him many times, Negan knows what Daryl is capable of. After all he calls him a tiger…haha “catch “a tiger”- *points bat at Daryl* by the toe.” However, fans adore Daryl and so does the group, his death would have a lasting effect on EVERYONE and catapult us into an insane season of Revenge. But to be honest, any season that doesn’t have Daryl and his dirty ass, potty mouth, crossbow aiming, motorcycle riding, carol loving self in it, isn’t one I want to watch. Although Norman Reedus was on Talking Dead after the episode with Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s Negan. And you know that shit is not a good sign. #jinx #deathspot #TTDcouch

Michonne-* (is my main guess- Read my full analysis HERE)

She would be a shock…figures just as Rick and Michonne started Richonne-in it.

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Abraham-

BITCH NUTS! Who’s Deanna? Bisquick. Mother Dick. Abraham is our comedy.

And on a show like The Walking Dead, we need a little laughter. Not to mention that his delivery is so stone cold serious that it makes it even more hilarious when he spits out his nonsense phrases. There’s also the fact that he just left Rosita to fall in love with Sasha. Can you say #LOVETRIANGLE? Yea! Seriously though he and Sasha could be epic, if given the time, and we haven’t had that intense a jealous lover’s squarel within our central group since Rick, Lori and Shane.

Rosita throwing some serious shade…

But needless to say Abraham was definitely one of the first I thought of when the screen went black. I just saw so much pride and heroism in him this episode that it would be justified if he was the one who was killed. He’s a soldier, he protects. And he may be considered a B-list cast member, he’s the closest to a main character, he’s certainly beloved and his death would make an impact. Let’s look at the signs; he recently started a love affair with Sasha, and in this episode as he drives the RV (major role in the journey to save Maggie and baby) he basically tells her he could see himself having kids with her, now.

He mentions how planning that type of thing, is really living. As the sun shines brightly on Abraham and his red headed mustache wearing self, it’s a sweet moment tainted by upcoming tragedy?

There is also the moment he has with Eugene where they hug it out and rebuild their friendship. Abraham tells Eugene that he was wrong about him, he is a survivor.

All these moments, almost seem as though they are setting us up to say goodbye to Abraham. In the moments where the group is placed under the interrogation headlights Abraham is the first to protest the lead Savior, when he tells the other saviors to get Maggie down, Abraham says “Hold up. We got it.” Already protecting. He and Rick walk Maggie over to the lineup and when Negan threatens Maggie and Glenn has his freak out moment, Abraham reaches to hold Maggie as she cried out for them to stop hurting Glenn. When Negan comes face to face with Abraham, Abraham challenges him, he rises up and looks Negan square in the face.

In my opinion Negan’s “Take it like a champ” comment could fit Abraham’s soldier background. Also considering the blows of Lucille, there were about 3 major blows; the first one- caused a crack and the bleeding, the second caused blurry vision and a fall and the third was a black out. For the victim to withstand that type of blow and that many, they would have to be holding their head up high and “standing tall.” Their build would have to be solid. However, I do feel like the group could handle a lot, and even the most unlikely subject could “take it like a champ.” I just feel like someone who is wounded like Daryl, although strong, that kind of blow would knock him out on the first shot. Even Glenn who seems to be in a bit of a fit of hysterics might go down pretty easy too. Carl and Maggie’s smaller frames could also succumb to the blows quicker. But then again, as I said before it could be anyone. And that’s why I am obsessing. In fact something else to consider is Abraham’s death in the comics is actually how Denise died in the show- arrow through the eye.

Could it be that Abraham was spared to be Glenn’s replacement? Also here’s another little tidbit-to think about-this fan is on point.

Maggie-

All kinds of NO. Maggie is one of the few original women left. I just relate to her somehow. She is becoming such a leader and just a mama bear, and I just feel like she hasn’t had enough screen time lately, for this to be it. If The Walking Dead thinks they could bait and switch Glenn’s death for Maggie’s you have no idea the wrath you will feel. Not only would Negan be taking one life, but he’d be taking two. And I cannot see Glenn allowing that to go down. His non-death would be a waste of time, if they kill Maggie off. Because in the greater scheme of things, Glenn is living for his family. In the comics Negan is said not to kill women or kids. Well if they stick to that Maggie is safe. If they don’t, Maggie is in the line of fire, and that terrifies me. Something is clearly wrong with her baby and I just hope that we get to see the outcome of our Glaggie family.

That shower scene where Glenn notices the bruises on Maggie’s body from the fight she had with the female saviors. That scene was so heartbreaking.

Rick-

Um if Rick dies, it would be the biggest shock in TV history. Granted I understand sometimes shows go for it and think that they can justify killing a series’ lead character but on the Walking Dead that just would not fly. I mean he’s the leader, he’s the center of the show, the whole story revolves around him and his experiences. I cannot see it being Rick, but like I said before, this show has proven time and time again that when you think someone is safe they’re not. #NoJustNo #Ricktatorship #NeganClearlyDidntGetTheMemo

Sasha-

She’s a safe choice, I feel. She’s likeable. She’s family. She’s had some great moments and she and Abraham are in love and talking about building a future. What better way to squash that dream then to have her get the bat. Her death would affect the group and the viewers, but again not like a major character’s death would. Sasha is more of a B-list character.

Although I have to say her reaction to Negan’s bat always makes me laugh, because I could just see her saying something like…”mmm mm..nope.”

Aaron-

Aaron is very likeable. We’ve kind of accepted him pretty quickly. He was the person that Maggie confides her pregnancy in.

And he is also someone who has really taken the group on as family and has continuously tried to pull his weight. For example, telling Rick he would have to punch him in the face to stop him from coming along to help get Maggie to the hilltop. I think the friendship he’s formed with Maggie is sweet, however I don’t think it’s fully developed yet.

He was there for her when she was waiting for a sign from Glenn, he gave her hope. And he is also half of the first gay couple to grace the walking dead screen. Who’s his boyfriend again? Oh yea that dude that never gets screen time. Story isn’t done.

His death wouldn’t be catastrophic, because he’s not a main character. However, it would be fitting since he is to the right side of Rick and he is near Carl, which if you notice Negan’s shadow on Rick’s face and as he gestures toward Carl when he delivers his cryptic “cut the boy’s other eye out” line. But again, I doubt it’s him. Could be, but I doubt it.

Carl-

Was my initial choice. When Negan says “Anybody moves, anybody says anything, cut the kid’s other eye out and feed it to his father. And then we’ll start.” I sat there and was like WHAT? So it’s Carl. Now I know there has been some serious debate about that specific line. Some people think because he said that, both Rick and Carl are safe. But some people seem to think it was in fact Carl, and that he threatens that if anyone attempts to stop him he will first cut out Carl’s eye, force feed it to Rick and then continue to bludgeon Carl to death. Although others argue that Carl would already be dead then and Lucille will have no purpose, people seem to think he says that line as leverage. Or it could be a means to an end for our father/son pairing. The “and then we’ll start” can mean let me make you suffer and then bash your head in. Also this photo has been floating around and the shadow does match a certain sheriff hat wearing teen, could be just the lighting, but it could also be a sign.

Raise your hand if you’ve said- God when is he gonna take that damn hat off? As per Season 1- Carl you should have stayed in the house. Although I have to say that Carl’s character evolution is definitely fun to watch. He’s a little G, and so was little Mika.

I was hoping to see them have a teenage romance. Haha. Aw RIP sweet Mika. Anyway I digress. If you watch back the scene where Negan begins his twisted version of our favorite child deciding factor game, you notice that his shadow seems to be on the right side of Rick’s face (from the viewer’s POV) just before he says “and you are it.” Which some may conclude that the victim is on the right side of the lineup, meaning; Sasha, Aaron, Carl or Eugene. Pair that fact with the idea that we see Carl’s shadow and Viola! Although would they really end Carl’s story like this? He just survived getting his eye shot out, and he’s definitely in line to be a leading contender if anything ever happens to Rick. #BiteYourTongue. Although there were a few things in the Season finale episode that I picked up on when I thought Carl may have received the barbed end of Lucille and her reign of terror. In the beginning of the episode when Rick and Company are packing up the RV getting ready to take Maggie to the OBGYN doctor at hilltop, Enid is very insistent on coming. Home-girl is fishy, something is up, she probably poisoned those pickles, and is actually working with the Saviors. Let’s not forget she was always running off out of Alexandria and into the woods. However, Carl forbids her to come and ends up purposely locking her in the closet to keep her safe. She utters through the door, “What if you don’t come back. What am I supposed to do? How am I supposed to live with that?” Carl responds calmly “Just Survive Somehow,” reiterating Enid’s personal slogan back to her. Keep in mind that at this moment we see Carl’s shadow cast upon the white closet door. I may be reaching, but could this be shadow play? Foreshadowing the shadow we see that might match Carl getting killed by Negan.

There is also a conversation between Carl and Aaron in the RV, where Carl asks “What made you come?” To which Aaron answers “I owe her,” referring to Maggie, probably because kept Rick from killing him in the first place. When Aaron reciprocates and asks Carl the same question Carl responds; “I owe them,” which I can only assume he owes Rick, Maggie and the gang. They are his family. Could it be that The Walking Dead was foreshadowing Carl’s death with these signs? I mean it would send Rick into a spiral like no other, to watch his son get bludgeoned to death, and it would affect everyone, including all the main players; Carol (and her mommy complex), Daryl (who cannot take losing kids), Michonne (Carl’s new mommy), Glenn and Maggie (as they are about to embark on parenthood themselves.) Also could Enid’s plea be irony rearing its ugly head. If it happens to be Carl I will miss him, but sadly, I can say that I could handle it better than a Glenn, Daryl, Rick or Maggie death. To me those 4 are my untouchables. Although I will say that I’ve heard rumors that in the comics Negan kind of takes to Carl with a strange fascination which embarks on a greater storyline for the two characters. If Carl dies, I guess they would have to wipe out that entire part in the comics.

If we’re getting technical…. there’s this too.

Eugene-

Our sweet sweet mullet man. We all hated you back when you messed with our survivors. You know when you lied about being the scientist who knew how to fix the zombie outbreak. But boy have you been stepping up your game. That Abraham and Eugene moment was totally adorable and gave us all the feels. As we watch Eugene grow into more of a badass, his big courageous moment comes as he takes on the role of the RV decoy (that smile he made before starting the engine…priceless) which went just as we expected, sadly.

And he got caught and put in the lineup like the rest of them. Sure we like Eugene, sure his death would impact the group, but I don’t think it would be as big as a main character death. But then again, The Walking Dead could turn shit around on us and hit us with something like a mediocre death #SorryEugene just to keep the main players going but still give Negan a kill. The irony of Eugene manning up just as he gets Lucilled would be a sad sad fate. Not to mention he has this badass insane plan to make bullets, a plan which he basically handed off to Rick “just in case.”

AFTER THOUGHTS:

If you ask me I think Negan should be smart about who he chose, he wants people to work for him. He needs soldiers, he needs strong people. Then again he also needs to send a message that will keep everyone in check. Keep people in the know of what power he holds. Killing someone weaker then him could send a message of weakness, or it also send a message that he has no time to deal with weak people. Killing someone strong like Abraham could send the message that he doesn’t take any threats or shit from anyone challenging him, but he also lost a good worker in hindsight. But then again Negan could have just killed whoever he killed, for whatever twisted reason, or no reason at all. Because let’s face it, he looks like one sick individual who doesn’t care or worry about who he kills. Fingers crossed that whoever it is, we can handle. But then again maybe all the hype and guessing is just a big old hoax and they kill off a B-list character. Who knows with this show, who knows???

#WhoIsIt tell me your theories in the comments below!

-<3-

#WhoIsIt?

April 8, 2016April 8, 2016michelleleighwrites 10 Comments

Who Is It?

**Please excuse the usage of vulgar language**

Still in a total state of mindf*ck over that cliffhanger? Yea you know what cliffhanger. Well, no worries, me too. Honestly it’s pretty much all I can think about. I am obsessing here and have been since Sunday. And it’s causing me a bit of unnecessary anxiety, like- for real. My parents are like whoa just stop, and I’m like no I need this, I need to solve this mystery, (or at least think I’ve solved it) or I won’t be able to enjoy my Summer. I feel like I’ve been walking around in a fog with a pit in my stomach. Thanks Scott Gimple.

The Walking Dead’s Season 6 finale disturbingly yet appropriately titled “Last Day On Earth” premiered this past Sunday on April 3^rd and fans are pissed that we don’t get to see who was on the receiving end of the brutal beating given by the series newest and most lethal villain; Negan.

Let me set the mood for you. All day Sunday I felt anxious, I wanted The Walking Dead to be over before it started. That in itself was a warning, considering I love watching this show! I felt like it was a long drawn out wait til 9 o’clock and then the slow drag of the episode just kept piling onto that anxiety. I knew it was building to something that was going to mess us all up, but I had no idea they would leave it off the way they did. And considering the hype revolving this finale, and Negan’s rumored appearance, you could imagine the excitement (and FEAR!) While the last half an hour may have packed on the action, it also packed on the confusion, the fear, and for many fans- the anger.

To say that I cursed more than usual during this episode would be an understatement. I did not hate the episode, I thought it was actually very good. I think it was great storytelling, and it was filmed amazingly. The cinematic aspects are beautiful in their own twisted and manipulative ways. However, I do also believe we expected more action then we got. With Season 6’s B season giving off an action packed high and delivering full on, the 90 minute finale kind of dragged on as we saw the survivors try with all their might to get to the hill top to get Maggie and her baby some much needed help. Yet on their journey they encountered many blocked roads and were left with nowhere to go but walk right into a trap…Negan’s trap…served with a side of Lucille.

As a writer myself, I wasn’t angry about the cliffhanger. I mean yea I was like WHAT? I have to wait until October to find out! I seriously don’t know how I’m going to do that. But hopefully this obsession dies off once I get all my thoughts and feels out in this (and several other) blog posts into the world. I feel like that always helps me.

I will say I was PISSED with the Glenn fake out death they pulled mid-season, feel free to read my drama HERE, HERE, HERE and HERE. But this cliffhanger was actually genius. Let’s think about it for a second? There has been so much anticipation over this scene, over Negan’s arrival. It is well known to those who read the comics and they already “THINK” they know what’s going to happen. So what better way to throw people off then to flip the camera and put you in the eyes of the victim? Watching that scene I felt like I was there. I was squirming, I was shielding my eyes, and I certainly felt the anxiety. Listening to Scott Gimple explain his reasoning behind the cliff hanger on after show The Talking Dead made some sense; to paraphrase, he basically said he wanted the viewers to feel as if they were part of the lineup. Honestly, I think his mission was accomplished. Although I don’t agree with some of his other ambiguous answers- yea he’s really good at not answering questions- I definitely felt like I was in that lineup. The fear was authentic.

In an interview; Director Greg Nicotero gave some key reasons as to how he shot this episode and why saying;

“This episode was tremendously well-written and I feel like, from a visual standpoint, we spend a lot of time making the audience feel boxed-in like the characters were. The first confrontation with the lead Savior on the road, we had these big wide shots where you see Rick and his group on the left side and the Saviors on the right side, and then as the show progresses our angles get tighter and tighter and tighter so that we get to a point where the last interaction with our group in the RV, we’re in super tight close-ups of all our actors. We wanted the audience to feel like they were being corralled just like the characters were; we kept the camera in the RV for all of that.”-Nictotero

With the episode being written by show runner Scott M. Gimple and directed by horror fan and special effects mogul Greg Nicotero, there are sure to be clues left as to who Negan actually killed. Quite frankly, I don’t know which is worse having known or not knowing. If we had found out, we would have had to grieve that person all Summer. Not knowing leaves it open and when the premiere comes, we at least will have the full story in front of us and the reactions of all of the others. Or maybe we could have been in a state of recovery and acceptance by then, who knows. At least not knowing gives us a bit of a game to play.

So I am here to offer some crazy theories and suggestions. Now I have been on a research high since the finale aired so I have read a lot of theories. But I also rewatched the episode and rewatched THAT scene endless times, to add to those theories and see the proof for myself, and in that research I can up with a few extra things to back up one theory in particular. There are a few things I picked up on that I haven’t come across online….yet. The truth is, The Walking Dead fans are smart, we think both outside and inside the box. We dig deep and we fight and we research and we join forces to come to some conclusions before we all go insane waiting for the Season 7 premiere which is usually scheduled for sometime this fall in October. Just in time for Halloween. Who’s coming to my viewing party? #moralsupport #we’reallinthistogether

So I’m going to dive into this crazy ass mystery and see if I can shed some light on some of the theories I’ve seen. In order to keep things somewhat in order and not make this post 500 pages long, I’m probably going to post in segments. I’ve done a lot of theory thinking over the past few days since the finale aired and I have a pretty solid case for one specific character. Take a look at all my crazy…

20160407_213734 20160407_213740

Yea you know I drew diagrams…you can’t tell me you haven’t.

Now I want to just clear something up, I’m a psycho and have been re-watching the scene over and over again trying to add to my theory. So at some point I am sure I could be just making shit up or making things fit my theory when they probably don’t. And I may dig into things that mean absolutely nothing. But I’m looking at this thing from all angles. It’s important to keep in mind, that you can make a case for every character in that line-up. Some are more beloved than others, some would have a greater impact on the audience and on the others (especially Rick) than others. Some you may feel can be pulled out quickly because they aren’t major characters. But The Walking Dead has a habit of flipping the script when it comes to storytelling. They do not stick religiously to the comics, and every time you think you know how something is going to play out, they do something totally unexpected, or they make you question shit so much that you end up over thinking and frying your brain to the point of exhaustion. I know why Andrew Lincoln said he couldn’t sleep and felt sick to his stomach after reading the script, because that’s how I felt after watching it, and how I still feel thinking about it and who it could be. But the theorizing is slightly addictive. #dumpstergate2016 #whoisit2016 So let’s get into this shizz.

EPISODE BACKSTORY:

It wasn’t until we approached the last half hour or so that we realized that Rick began to get increasingly worried, and we were right there with him. When Rick is worried you bet your ass there is a reason to worry. Once Eugene set off as the decoy in the RV. Alone. I knew he wasn’t going to make it far. This show loves irony way too much, and even though Eugene has been stepping up tremendously and he and his mullet have found a special place in our hearts, the saviors were 12 steps and then some ahead of Rick and his crew this whole damn time. They had eyes EVERYWHERE. And it’s sad to say but Rick’s group is incredibly outnumbered. No matter how capable and ready they thought they were, they truly did not know what they were up against, or who.

From the red rover walker chain in the road tagged with remnants of Michonne and Daryl, to the blazing fire wood pit, to the guy being beaten and hung by chains, to the number of saviors ready to unload their weapons on Rick and the gang- The obvious fact that the Saviors were setting up one holy hell of a trap was enough to get your heart racing and your palms sweating. To put it plainly…BITCH NUTS!

After the third road block I remember tossing out some major F-bombs. I was getting so pissed (and nervous as hell). We knew after the first road block, that something was up and there was no way out of this.

The action gets super intense once night hits and Rick and the rest of the RV occupants including; Abraham, Sasha, Carl and Aaron carry Maggie on foot through the woods. The minute they start their journey, we hear that dreaded Savior whistle, and my heart dropped. (That shit is creepy as hell.) Rick utters “GO!” as the crew begins to rush through the woods, bright lights hit them, revealing they are about to be in deep deep shit. As the whistles increase the night is lit up as we are faced with dozens and dozens of Saviors, armed, and ready for war. No way out. Welcome to the show, fam.

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The sheer fear on our group’s faces is something I don’t think we as viewers have ever seen, or at least haven’t seen in quite a while. Throughout this season, and especially these past few episodes, our beloved group of survivors have deemed themselves invincible. They have always come out on the other side. They have always gotten through everything, together. They’ve maintained this “we can do anything” attitude. They fought against the massive herd of walkers that broke down the walls of Alexandria, Carl survived a gunshot wound to the eye thanks to Dr. Denise, and Rick and Co. wiped out a damn good amount of Saviors like bad asses. Richonne has been happy and getting busy. People are getting cozy and confident, and when that happens you know shit’s about to hit the fan. HARD. Raise your hand if you felt Rick’s cockiness coming on, but you were like ok he’s still got this? He always does? Yea that was me, until I saw his face in the season finale.

ricck face

As the saviors strip the group of their weapons, they are told to get on their knees. What a freakin’ power trip ordeal this is going to be, what is with that? The whole kneel before me bit, is kind of frustrating. It’s just like well fuck, fight like a real man Negan. Because let’s be real it’s Lucille, who does all the damn work. #BehindEveryMan #IsOneHellOfAWoman I’m sorry, too soon? Yes, I know. Guys I need to make jokes, so I can keep my sanity until October. Bear with me.

lineup

As the lead savior (did we even get this douchebag’s name in this ep?) then tell his men to get her down, meaning get Maggie down off the mattress they were carrying her on, Abraham bulks up saying “Hold up, we got it.” As the savior allows it, Rick and his crew lower Maggie to the ground as they all make their way to the dreaded “lineup.” *Daryl, Michonne, Rosita, and Glenn will soon join from being already held in captivity in a van from the prior episode.

Here is the first piece of the puzzle, or so it may seem. The order of this line of survivors has to mean something, the team of writers, directors and creators for The Walking Dead are clever, everything means something.

The order from left to right is as follows:

Glenn, Rosita, Daryl, Michonne, Abraham, Maggie, Rick, Sasha, Aaron, Carl, Eugene.

lineupp

Some things I have been analyzing when trying to decipher #WhoIsIt are:

The lighting, The camera angles, The trees, The shadows, The Eeny Meeny Miny Moe game, and The carefully placed unknown Eeny Meeny Miny Moe’s, where we hear and see Negan waving his bat and walking but we don’t see who or if he’s actually pointing it at anyone specific.

One of the most frightening things are the giant clues we get by the show using the first person point of view shots. In fact the first shot of the entire episode is from the first person view, and later on we find out that dark enclosed place with peaks of light shining through is the POV of someone in the Savior’s van.

daryl pov light van van pov pov 2

Those POV shots can only belong to 4 people; Daryl, Michonne, Rosita, or Glenn. The way that the POV shots seem are over Daryl’s head. The POV seems to be someone further back in the van, like Michonne played by Danai Gurira. Which if you look at the way the characters exited the van, it was Daryl, Michonne, Rosita and then Glenn.

As I will display photos below:

Daryl and Michonne Rosita

Glenn

Now if we look closely at the usage of first person point of view shots you will see as mentioned the show’s first shot is from a first person POV of someone in the van and the episode ends with a first person POV of that person being beaten by Negan with the help of Lucille.

trees trees 2

I’ve seen a lot of theories about it being Michonne specifically for this reason. The van POV shots seem to be from someone further back in the van on the passenger side of the van and sitting higher up then Daryl. And those signs point to Michonne as pictured.

However, I dug a little deeper. Because of course I did. #TVjunkie

When you look at the set-up of the scene and you think about the other few POV shots we got; they were of Lucille during the Eeny Meeny moments. Now I think that those unknowns I mentioned actually belong to the person he ends up choosing. I am convinced that every single POV shot shown belongs to that one character; the one who was beaten at the end of the episode. I can’t justify it being any other way. I think Greg Nicotero is too clever to just put random POV shots into the show and especially in an episode as crazy as this. Those POV’s mean something. And if you look at the POV shots of Lucille (looking up at Negan from the lineup) both pictures place the POV on the viewer’s right side. Meaning on the side of Abraham, Michonne, Daryl, Rosita, and Glenn. If you look closer at the background of the Lucille shots. You can see the trailer behind Negan; the front of the trailer is there so again that places us of the right side of the lineup looking up at Negan.

trailer full trailer side near michonne POV

trailer

There is also a man in the next shot. And it is clear that there were a bunch of Savior men standing near the front of the RV on that side of the lineup.

2nd lucille pov shot men in background

michonne

Just as Negan is about to pass Michonne she looks up at him. He walks past her, and then the Eeny Meany Miny Moe continues, you don’t see the face of the person but you catch a Lucille POV shot which is directly followed by a fearful Michonne close-up. Camera tricks, or a clue?

As for the trees, it’s really hard to get a clear picture of the ones you see behind Negan to study and compare them to those said to be across from Michonne. People keep saying something about 4 branches lining up with Michonne’s view, and let’s just say, I can believe it. If I come across any solid evidence of that, I will update.

Ngean background Screenshot_2016-04-06-21-35-12

The lighting is also something I considered. Now in the realm of filming I am sure there were several sources of light used to light this scene. However from the story’s perspective, in the zombie apocalypse world the source of light is actually coming from the car headlights. There is one coming from either side of the lineup and then one behind Carl.

outview 2

out view light source from the left

If you put yourself in Michonne’s place and you’re looking up at Negan his right side is cast in a shadow, which means he would be lit from the left-

breath sweeps to the left

-which would make sense because there would be light streaming directly from that side from two places. Since the closer you get to Glenn, who has only one direct car headlight behind him, on that side, Negan would be lit up more and would be lit up from the front, showing his full face, rather than just half of it.

looking up a Negan

glenn's outburst-light source

Negan talking to Glenn in more of a full light.

Now getting even more technical and crazy. When Negan is giving his big old speech, most of it is directed at Rick, so for the most part Negan is more so on the left of his “stage” and you can see the smoke from his breath drifts to the right as it does when speaking to everyone on the left side of the line-up, (facing Negan).

Breathe to the right

in front of rick and his breath sweeps right

When Negan stands in front of Lucille’s future victim, his breath sweeps to the left.

breathe sweeps to the left breath sweeps to the left

Which it also did so when he was speaking to Abraham, whom if you remember correctly is right next to Michonne.

breath sweeps to the lefts in front of abe

Now also if you want to get super technical, the POV shots are clear views. No hair over the eyes, like Glenn and Daryl had. Sure every now and then Michonne’s hair could land in front of her eyes, but not for the bulk of this sequence.

moe passing to the left

Now I know what you are thinking. But in the comics Negan doesn’t kill Women, or Kids. Well to that I call bull shit. Someone on the lovely interweb recently reminded all of us that in a prior episode Jesus mentions how Negan “tortured a 16 year old.” So there. Yea. I don’t think they are going to be following the comic notation to a T. This guy seems lethal, all bets are off.

The “Take it like champ” screams Abraham, yes I know. But let’s be real, Michonne could easily fall into that category. She is one bad ass mama jama. She has balls, she just calls them breasts instead. She is a beast with that Katana. And let’s face it she would be a shock, and a twisted suitable replacement for Glenn who originally gets this dreaded kill in the comics. Michonne is a “hard left turn,” choice which is what Gimple said they would be doing with this scene. However, her death would have a serious impact on many if not all of the characters. It would most certainly destroy Rick, which is what Robert Kirkman said was the point of this episode, “to tear Rick Grimes down. “In fact in the scenes leading up to the dreaded sequence, we see the Saviors taunt Rick about his “Last Day On Earth” or someone he love’s last day on earth. Let’s be real Richonne was too good to be true, and I’d say being Rick’s woman has kind of a kiss of death effect. #RIPLori #RIPJesse That little moment between Rick and Abraham where Abraham asks Rick if it scares him to let someone get close again and Rick just simply answers yes. I mean hello…foreshadowing?

which one of you pricks is the leader standing in front of michonne michonne negan

Honestly, I don’t want Michonne to die. She’s badass and I’m kinda digging the new Romance vibes, but considering the other van participants, I can’t stomach it being either Glenn or Daryl. Glenn and Maggie and Baby. Yea no- I can’t deal with that. It’s not Glenn. I don’t accept that. I mean are the writers, creators, and directors that insane to put us through yet another Glenn debacle?

Are they that trusting of their storytelling cred that they think they could get away with killing off our beloved Daryl Dixon. Let’s be real. We truly will RIOT. Daryl is my boo. In fact I’d say the amount of backlash from a Daryl death the show would get would be catastrophic. I’m not sure they could recover from that the way they’ve been able to brush us off before with Dale, Sophia, Hershel, or Beth. And well, I hate to sound crass, but Rosita would not have that big of an impact on the story as a whole, or the audience. Sure we like her, but I could handle her death. Although she and Eugene could start a little somethin’ somethin’. 😉

Now I do have some theories about some other characters, especially some about the other side of the lineup #Carl #Eugene. But I will save that for another time. Right now, sadly Michonne is my leading contender. But I am sure as new things get investigated, it will change day to day. After all we have 7 months to fill.

I feel those who are pissed and want answers. I feel ya. But honestly, you can’t say that the show hasn’t been boss this year, and that the episode wasn’t brilliant in its own right. That slow build up was done for a reason. That cliffhanger was done for a reason. Sure we all want to know. But tv shows are meant to mess with you. This isn’t the first show to end a season on a cliffhanger. It happens and lets be real, we haven’t stopped talking about it since. So who’s winning here? If you ask me, we all are. We the fans get to speculate and trade theories and the show runners get to see how much of an impact the show has on it’s fans and how passionate we are. One of us is bound to come close with our theories and then when the Season 7 premiere comes on (which yes I hear you, I am dreading the wait, hell I almost went insane waiting to find out if Glenn was alive and that was only a few episodes) and you see your theories play out, you can either think hey I was right, or hey I wasn’t even close. See that’s the twisted beauty of this show and of this cliffhanger. It really could be anybody. Nobody is safe in this world. And that’s the whole damn point. Rick Grimes has finally gotten himself in some deep ass shit.

I have crazy fangirled over TV shows before. One Tree Hill was my obsession, and I know what it feels like to agonize over a Season Finale especially a cliff-hanger…but ‪#‎TWD takes the cake. Props to the writers for being ballsy. And now I am crossing over to the point of crazy town as I dive into the mystery of ‪#‎WhoIsIt I’m talking maps and diagrams and shit. I’m talking camera angles and lighting. I’m talking Eeny Meeny Miny Moe screenshots. I’m talking countless pauses and plays. Gimple you messed with the wrong fans. ‪#‎challengeaccepted ‪#‎Happy7months ‪#‎IRefusetoBelieveItsGlenn ‪#‎FTheComics ‪#‎DumpstersForLife

Until my next TWD post.

And remember to keep your minds going, watch-

“Fear The Walking Dead” this Sunday @ 9 pm on AMC- to get your zombie fix.

Tell me your thoughts on #WhoIsIt in the comments below or tweet me @Shellbelle91

-<3-

“Adults” Adulting…

March 24, 2016March 24, 2016michelleleighwrites 5 Comments

Adulting

Adulting (v): to do grown up things and hold responsibilities such as, a 9-5 job, a mortgage/rent, a car payment, or anything else that makes one think of grown ups.

Used in a sentence: Jane is adulting quite well today as she is on time for work promptly at 8am and appears well groomed. (Jane…you go girl!)

A few shy days away from my 25th birthday (Ew when did this happen?), I realize having to be an adult actually really freaking sucks.

Personally, I still feel like a kid.

And to many of my family members I’m still that “little shell.”

So learning that life takes work and that becoming an adult is an inevitable part of life, has been a whirl wind at times. I don’t know how parents do this. I go through certain short term experiences and I feel like I’m drowning in confusion and paperwork I have to re-read 5 times to fully understand. And don’t get me started on Health insurance.

Adulting has me questioning…all the questions…

Work?

Checking and saving accounts?

You mean I have to balance my checkbook?

Loans are evil.

Credit and debit cards?

Direct deposit?

You mean I have to read things before I sign them?

I have to file taxes?

Ew.

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Why god, why?

Wait you mean I actually have to “dress for success” I just thought that was a myth.

What does wearing a blazer have to do with my brain rocking its awesomeness? I can be awesome sitting in my pjs. Let’s be real. 😉

But can I?

For a point of reference- I recently accepted a new job and have been having to deal with a lot of adult like scenarios in preparation for my start date. These are things I haven’t really experienced much and it’s a whole new world I am stepping into. Or stumbling rather. All kidding aside, I think being an adult can at times be glamourized, as kids we think once we hit our twenties, we’ll be good to go. But once we get there, we realize we are nowhere near having our lives together. As we get a grip, we eventually find our way. We live, we learn, we handle, we deal, we conquer.

Spoiler Alert: NO ONE has it all figured out.

A year ago, I probably wouldn’t have been able to handle this situation this well. The past week I have been running around, making appointments, trying to get all my requirements done. At times, I felt like a chicken without a head, and I would get run down and exhausted both mentally and physically. That’s when I realized that being an “adult” sucks. And then my logical inner adult self would glare at me and think to herself…”Oh hunny you haven’t even skimmed the surface yet.” #Truth

However, I am excited about my new job, I fought through all the “adulting” inconveniences 😉 to get it. My persistence should have been a major sign that I wanted the job…bad.

I am finally going to be doing something related to my actual college degree. And yes I will be WRITING and inspiring others to write…. (Or at least trying to.) I am excited for my new journey. With every new venture- there are worries. There are self-doubts. And being the anxiety prone person I am, my overthinking can consume me. But in my heart of hearts, think I can rock this.

I am completely aware of the fact that I have a long road to becoming an adult. (Besides I think I can name a few “adults” that aren’t exactly adults.) Hey it happens. I am still very much dependent on my parents. But as I begin to take my first small steps into adulthood, I have to give myself some credit for holding my ~~shit~~ together. I’m pretty curious and organized when it comes to important matters. I don’t like to be out of the loop, or more realistically…I hate not being in control. I said it before and I’ll say it again…To Do Lists are my best friends. Being humble is one thing, but continuously not giving yourself credit can be more harmful to you than anything. So I’m going to own the fact that I can in fact handle this adult thing. It’s not going to be easy, I’m going to ask questions, and I’m going to need help. But I can do this. And you can too. You got this.

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So here’s hoping. Wish me luck!

Happy Adulting!

For your viewing pleasure, here’s a slideshow of “adulting” memes/gifs.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

*I do not take credit for any images or gifs used.*

-<3-

Dissect A Scene: The “Burzek” Break Continues #ChicagoPD

February 8, 2016February 8, 2016michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Ok so I’m going to level with you here…this is more of a dissect an episode…based on all Burzek moments post engagement break up. This past Wednesday’s 3×13 episode of Chicago PD entitled “Hit Me,” was the first episode after Kim Burgess gave back the engagement ring Adam Ruzek proposed to her with. The break up scene was just that…breaking…heart breaking. And you can read my scene dissection on that particular moment HERE. I think this break-up is seriously crushing my soul, because I’ve been with this couple from the very beginning- from the awkward moments, to the flirtation, to the first “I Love You’s.” It’s been a joy to watch. So now that the two have broken up my Chicago PD is missing it’s Romance factor. And you know how I love my love stories! Sure, we still have Linstead (Detectives Erin Lindsay & Jay Halstead) and I love them, but they are a different kind of couple. They are in the very early stages of their relationship, and they aren’t as out with the PDA as Burzek was. Oh how it hurts to use the past tense. I have watched these scenes over and over. I have even rewatched the episode in it’s entirety. It doesn’t get any easier seeing these two apart.

Anyway… Here are the scenes:

In the first scene we see Burgess coming in and talking to Sergeant Platt about the agenda for the day. Burgess asks to talk to Platt in private once Platt busts out the obvious (that she and Ruzek broke up.) Now it’s been known that Platt and Burgess have had their weird bittersweet friendship since Season 1. Platt called the fact that Burgess and Ruzek wouldn’t make it to the altar, and she’s not really letting Burgess forget that. And now that Platt is engaged to Chicago fireman Mouch, she’s one upping Burgess as she plans her own wedding. But when Burgess asks Platt to sign off on a transfer out of the station, Platt throws her hands up and protests the decision. She surprisingly becomes a confident as she notices this whole situation is tearing Burgess apart. “Are you okay?” Platt asks followed by Burgess’ tearful “No.”

“You just sit here, and you feel what you need to feel,” Platt returns as she offers Burgess a chair. Marina shines in this vulnerable moment, and you can tell that underneath all the bluster and the hard times Platt gives Burgess, she actually deep down cares about her well-being and wants her to stick around. Burgess looks the part of a girl who just had her heart broken. Sure, she got up and managed to get dressed in her uniform, but her hair is in a laid back, messy, thrown up pony tail, her face and eyes are puffy and red, like she’s been crying all night. Yup sounds about right. All the while she strives to remain professional and do her job.

The second clip in this video, shows Ruzek and Atwater on an assignment for a case involving a casino. As they walk through they talk about the break up. Ruzek’s response to Atwater’s “Wait so it’s over…like over over?” is “I don’t know, you’re gonna have to ask her that. I mean she gave the ring back.” Ruzek’s later comment of “Anyway, moving on, right?” could be a red flag for our Burzek hearts, because it’s either let’s move on from this painful subject. OR I’m moving on from Kim Burgess. Judging by further scenes in this episode I’d say the first makes most sense. Adam Ruzek is clearly still very much in love with Kim Burgess.

This collection of scenes are the only interaction the two have since Burgess called things off. In the beginning we see Ruzek checking his phone, hoping for a call from her. Then we see him jump and turn at the sound of Burgess’ partner Roman’s voice, signaling he knew Burgess was in the room too. Burgess looks over at him awkwardly as he stares at her with puppy dog eyes and the saddest face ever. OH MY HEART! Seriously though Paddy is killing the puppy dog eyes this whole episode, I was just freaking out! (Legitimately kicking and screaming like a toddler.) Burgess looks away quicker than Ruzek, Ruzek’s stare lingers…which let’s be honest is WHAT WE LOVE about these break up story lines.

The following clip comes after Burgess and Roman just suffered a car crash while patrolling. Burgess is talking to a fellow cop, reporting what happened as we see a very determined Ruzek making his way toward her in a rather quick hasty fashion. He walks straight up to her, touching her face to check out the cut on her head. There’s really no hesitation on his part, as he asks her “Kim, are you okay?” Ruzek has always been very concerned about Burgess on the job since she got shot in Season 2. He always checks in on her, and he’s very protective, it’s the cutest freaking thing. You can tell that by the numerous times Ruzek’s made the same gesture when they were together.[See scenes 1, 2, & 3] The fact that he didn’t even think to do it again, shows he still loves her and still cares for her safety. Burgess on the other hand pulls back, making light of the accident and signifying she can’t take being this close to him. Ruzek grabs her shoulders and asks her how she’s doing with everything else- meaning the fact that they just called off their engagement- oh I don’t know- a day ago. Burgess again says she’s fine and asks how he is. In which Ruzek’s next response breaks Burzek hearts EVERYWHERE when he says “You’re fine. Really? Cause I’m terrible.” Let it be known that Ruzek looks kind of a wreck too, puffy face, full messy beard. Burgess responds to his honesty awkwardly by saying she’s sorry to hear that and then makes an excuse to walk away. Ruzek looks broken. Burgess looks flustered and equally broken. Though she hides it well.

This last scene is a scene between the two powerhouse women of the show; Kim Burgess and Erin Lindsay. I knew these two would be magic once they got a scene together. It’s about damn time! Look at Lindsay trying to play like she’s not also dating a fellow cop #Linstead. 😉 But seriously she did have a good point. Gender stereotypes and stigmas unfortunately do exist in many professions. Anyway what I love about this scene is how open Lindsay is. How she’s trying to be a friend to Burgess. And I love when she asks “Cause it’s that hard to see him at work every day?” And you can tell the hesitation in Burgess’ voice as she says “Cause I feel really guilty for calling it off, but it needed to be called off.” Which I think pretty much sums up the whole entire Burzek break.

I think that Burgess’ feelings are completely authentic. Her knee jerk reaction to transfer out is what anyone who just broke off their engagement would do. In fact if you watched this show since Season 1, you know that in Season 2 Burgess asks Ruzek-what if they ever broke up, and ended up hating each other, she mentions she’d probably transfer out. Of course Ruzek uses his charm to console her, as he just kisses her and tells her they aren’t breaking up. Looking back at that, AH, I JUST CAN’T. I want to cry. Poor Burzek! Oh the irony! Are you writers laughing in the writer’s room? 😉 She obviously still loves him, which is why this is so hard for her. In her mind she thinks there’s a reason behind Ruzek having such a relaxed approach to planning their wedding and their life together. And now seeing him and still having feelings for him makes it nearly impossible to try and move on (DON’T MOVE ON….PLEASE DON’T MOVE ON!) or just simply do her job. A job that basically puts your life on the line enough, she doesn’t need to be emotionally distracted and get hurt because as Voight likes to say “her heads not on straight.”

There were also a few other scenes not featured online.

Voight checks in with Ruzek-

During the case they are working on in Intelligence, Ruzek seems preoccupied the whole day. Voight calls on him for an update and Ruzek is so busy checking his phone yet again, that he doesn’t here Voight. After Voight gets his attention Ruzek supplies the update and as the others begin to clear the room, Voight asks Ruzek if he’s got “his head on straight.” Ruzek replies “Yea. I just didn’t see this coming. I feel like I let her down.” Voight responds “That’s not what I asked you.” While Ruzek answers “Yes. My heads on straight.” Voight responds “Okay.” With a pat on Ruzek’s back in understanding. THESE POOR COPS. It’s like they have to check their emotions at the door when they come to work. My god, I can only imagine the pressure. I mean people have to do things like that every day; separate their personal life from their professional. But when dealing with heart break and when you WORK WITH THE PERSON. I CAN’T. I have to admit though, from a writer’s stand point, this angsty stuff is GOLD. I just hate that sometimes the action and drama of the cases get in the way of the relationship stuff. I’m just hoping we don’t lose out on what this storyline can be, because they are too worried about delivering crazy cases and action packed scenes. It’s like okay we get it’s a cop show, but you just put our Burzek hearts through the mud, you better deliver that story FIRST. I don’t care about criminals doing stupid things. Not after you dumped this heartache on me. SHOW ME MY BURZEK LONGING STARES. SHOW ME THE TENSION!

Roman and Burgess chat on patrol-

Roman and Burgess have a very buddy type friendship. (Let’s hope it stays that way!) And so when they were on a drive to check out a suspicious situation, Roman says “Hey if you don’t wanna talk about it, that’s cool. But my cousin Matty thinks you’re hot. I told him I didn’t see it. But he wants your number.” Burgess kind of just laughs it off. (THANK YOU BURGESS!)

Mouse tries taking Ruzek’s mind off of Burgess-

Mouse (the tech guy) sees Ruzek having a few drinks at Molly’s. Ruzek looks down in the dumps, to say the least. Mouse saunters over with two girls by his side. He says something stupid like “Hey Adam I told Brynn here that you’re licking your wounds, turns out she is too.” Brynn sits down next to Ruzek (and instantly we hate Brynn) “So you’re a cop huh? You, must have a few crazy stories.” Adam says “Yea I got a few stories.” He then looks at her and asks “Brynn is it? I’m sorry I’m just not…” And he gets up to leave. Brynn looks unphased and says “No problem.” Adam walks out of the bar. Let’s put a new spin on “Bye Felicia”…”Bye Brynn.” I LOVE THIS SCENE and I hate it at the same time. SERIOUSLY WHAT IS UP with all the forces trying to get these two to move on from each other. They JUST broke up. Give them a minute to breathe, and you know come to the conclusion that they love each other like crazy and can’t live without each other, and have to get back together. I love the scene because ordinarily Ruzek has a pretty flirty nature. But when he and Burgess got together, it was like she become his world. He really only focused on her. Seriously you have to see how he acted with her, always kissing her, always wanting to be with her, always complimenting her. Homeboy even COOKED for her. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is! And even now that she broke things off, he still can’t fathom flirting with some other girl. Like I said before I think we may be seeing a new side to Adam Ruzek. I just hope the writers don’t pull another irony boost and let Ruzek get drunk and sleep with some rando (same goes for Burgess!) WE DON’T WANT TO SEE THAT!

In a nutshell, I think Adam is completely unaware of what is really going on with Kim. I think he’s been too caught up in the engagement bubble, that he hasn’t been noticing the signs of her growing frustration. Or at least he wasn’t taking them as seriously as he should have. While Kim feels that she needs to let him go, because this isn’t what he wants. But both are heart broken by not being together. My advice is for Burgess to play the hard to get card a little bit, I think it’s working for her for right now. I think it’s making Ruzek think. But I also give Adam so much credit for confronting Kim. I love that he was so honest about his feelings. How he feels terrible that they aren’t together. Most guys would just pretend they were cool, and just remain stoic. I think there needs to be more of that honesty (on both of their parts.) I think Adam needs to fight for Kim, get her to talk to him. I think they need a little distance, but not so much that it makes one of them do something stupid, or makes one of them start to move on. I think Kim needs to let Adam in on why she did what she did, because guys aren’t prone to realizing what they do wrong. Or at least Adam isn’t, he honestly just seems completely lost in confusion. She also needs to hear him out and there definitely needs to be more communication. They need to talk, like really talk about what went wrong and why. And I am just dying for Ruzek to just be like “But I love you…” followed by a big emotional speech. YES. PLEASE.

Anyway I know that this was a lot of emotional rambling and kind of long winded. And a less than eloquent dissection. But I just needed to vent. This Burzek break is messing with my feelings guys. I feel so bad for both of them. “But Michelle, it’s just a TV show, it’s not real,” you may say. UM, I’m sorry do you know me? I love TV! I love storytelling. I love the arcs of a love story! I am a writer! This is my bread and butter. Taking this stuff seriously is part of my love for television and my passion for creating stories myself. Like I always say watching TV is my research for when I can one day write for my own. And yes it’ll be a drama, because duh? 😉

So writers please don’t let me down here. Give me something I can work with.

I have a feeling I’ll be back here analyzing more Burzek scenes, because this is what is going to get me through this Burzek Break. When in doubt, blog about it!

Until next time, friends.

Catch this episode free on demand or on NBC.com

Chicago PD airs it’s new episode Wednesday @ 10 pm on NBC *Although this week is a special crossover event with Law and Order SVU which starts at @ 9 pm on NBC.*

Fingers crossed for some #Burzek scenes this week!

LIVE TWEET your #Burzek feels with me! – @Shellbelle91

*I do not take credit for any images, or videos/clips used in this post.*

-<3-

Barbie Evolves…Mattel bringing its A game

February 7, 2016February 5, 2016michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I’m a Barbie girl in a Barbie world, (sorry I couldn’t resist.)

Anyway… aside from that 90’s pop song being the greatest thing EVER, the world isn’t a Barbie World, and we are NOT Barbies. At least not the sculpted versions, we have been conditioned to believe are perfect and something to aspire to.

But as we grow and human nature catches up to corporate business, we see a change on the horizon. As you grow older I think your sense of self reflection gets stronger and you realize what’s really important in life. Heart is important. So why not instill that in the younger generation from the minute they are able to play with these iconic dolls.

Last week, I saw all the news about Barbie getting a makeover, and I was LOVING what I was seeing. What a changing world it is, that we live in. As Barbie Evolves…Mattel is bettering the iconic doll for future generations.

I loved Barbies as a kid, and even now all these years later, I still feel a connection to them. It takes me back to the days of my childhood. Where I would spend hours playing and being imaginative. Seeing the changes the companies are starting to realize need to be implemented to support healthier body image observance for young girls, is a really special thing. Granted, it took a while, but change is coming and it’s a groundbreaking move for Barbie lovers, like myself, to see.

-CUE RANT-

If you are not a fan or the change, you clearly don’t have a relationship with the toy, so get over it, and move on. Because this doesn’t concern you. Sorry… just reading the comments on the Barbie Facebook is so frustrating. If you don’t care about the change, why are you here looking it up? Why must you comment to say you don’t bother with Barbies? How is this change anything but good? I guess people will always have something to complain about.

-Ok, RANT OVER-

View my last Barbie’s Evolution turns into a Revolution post HERE .

Mattel is releasing its 2016 Barbie line, throughout this year. Some are even available for early purchase online.

On the Barbie.com website this is the statement featured about the new line-

Introducing the 2016 Barbie^® Fashionistas^™ Dolls. Releasing over time throughout the year, the line includes 4 body types- (Curvy, Tall, Petite, Original Barbie,) 7 skin tones, 22 eye colors, 24 hairstyles, and countless on-trend fashions and accessories. Shop now, exclusively at Mattel Shop.

Barbie.com also explains the reasons for the change, backing it up with a video.

THE EVOLUTION OF BARBIE-

Girls everywhere now have infinitely more ways to play out their stories and spark their imaginations through Barbie. Along with more overall diversity, we proudly add three new body types to our line. Here’s a look at why we did this, and the team that made it possible. #TheDollEvolves (SEE- video linked below)

Another video from Glamour Magazine that shows girls reacting to the new charge in Barbie, below:

Learn more about the new 2016 Barbie line HERE.

Like Barbie on Facebook for day to day updates and in-depth looks at the new and improved dolls.

360 degree viewing videos of the new dolls available on the Facebook page too!

“They’ll all be called Barbie, but it’s the curvy one—with meat on her thighs and a protruding tummy and behind—that marks the most startling change to the most infamous body in the world.” -TIME MAGAZINE

I want one of each, to put away for my future daughters, or nieces, or for my god daughter when you gets into Barbies which I selfishly hope is very soon! Haha! As I mentioned, I loved Barbies as a kid and I love that they are making Barbies more realistic and their beauty more attainable. It’s a great step in the right direction for inspiring positive body image for our young girls and future generations.

Is Ken going to be getting some realistic improvements next? I hope so. TODAY reports on the possibility. This looks so cool! If Barbie is looking more like real girls and women, shouldn’t Ken do the same and look more like real men, and boys? YES.

Everyone; men, women, girls, boys…we all come in all different shapes, sizes, heights, colors, ethnicities, some of us have curly hair, some of us have straight hair, some of us have beauty marks, some of us have freckles, and we all express our creativity through how we choose to dress. No one is perfect, but we are all unique. And there is a beauty in diversity. If everyone looked the same, like all the Barbies used to, the world would be a very boring place. I love that there are White, Black, Hispanic/Tan, and Asian Barbies in this new line. It’s a beautiful thing to see a reflection of our realistic world in these toys. Looking at this line of Barbies, their features are more human, they look like real people you’d pass on the street.

Because every little girl (or boy) playing with these dolls, just wants to feel accepted. To know that someone out there gets them and looks or feels like they look or feel. It’s human nature to want to feel that sense of connection to the world around you. Even as adults we want to feel accepted in our environment and when we look around and feel like maybe we stick out or we feel like we don’t fit in, it can cause us to feel badly about ourselves. That’s the same situation with children. The toys they play with mean the world to them. It’s the creative world they get to live in and make up stories. So if a doll looks like them, they get to play a more realistic version of that world. And feel that if Barbie can “be anything” which is the whole story behind Barbie and her million careers, then they can be anything and do anything. If Barbie isn’t perfect, they don’t feel like they have to be.

Rock on Barbie, Ken. Be you. Do Your Thang. (Words to live by…Thanks *NSYNC. and yes I changed the title to Thang, because I just thought it was more effective than Thing. haha!)

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Which new Barbie and Ken do you find most inspired? Which is most like you? Personally speaking I really dig the curvy Barbies, with the tan complexion and brown hair. I feel she looks most like me. Although I gotta admit the fact that some dolls have hazel eyes now, is kinda awesome too. And I love the blue hair and other funky colors too. Super cool! So let’s start a conversation, what do you guys think? Tell me in the comments below!

*I do not take credit for any images or videos/songs used in this post.*

-<3-

Grease: Live Review

February 2, 2016michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

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The first thing you should know before watching this show, is not to compare it to the original film. Grease is timeless, it’s a classic, and it’s untouchable. Granted, not comparing is easier said than done. I adore the film, it is hands down one of my favorite movies of all time. I can watch it over and over again and sing along in enjoyment. Anytime I catch it on TV I watch it. So as I sat watching Grease: Live, I found myself comparing every moment, every movement, every line to the original, which can completely daunt the magic of the live show.

Now don’t get me wrong some parts were better than others, and I definitely cringed during a few moments because of the dialogue changes, but overall I enjoyed the show very much. It gave me such an incredible respect for shows that shoot with a live audience. And my love for the Grease storyline was ignited once again. Can I please please dress up like Sandy at least once in my life? #goals

Now let’s get into specifics…I’m going to try and categorize my thoughts, and keep things to the point. So that we all aren’t here forever. 😉

Performance High Lights:

“Hopelessly Devoted”- Julianne Hough

“Summer Nights”- Aaron Tveit & Julianne Hough

“There are worse things I could do”- Vanessa Hudgens

“You’re the one that I want”- Julianne Hough & Aaron Tveit

“We’ll Always Be Together”- The whole Rydell gang

Casting:

Julianne Hough [Dancing with the Stars] really shines as Sandy, as she channels that good girl nature, while just trying to find a way to fit in. Her shy innocence is played naturally, as she delivers her performance with a sweetness and a tenderness. But she easily switches tone and spices things up when she becomes bad sandy. And her dancing skills showed right on through too. Oh and girl can sing too???!!!

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Aaron Tveit [Glee] was very charming as Danny. He got the swagger down pact, working the strut and the smirk full force. His delivery of flirtation was cleverly made his own. And let’s just say he’s kind of adorable.

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Vanessa Hudgens [High School Musical] was a complete star. Considering the recent loss of her father who passed just hours before the live show, she didn’t let anything derail her determination, as she conquered the role of Betty Rizzo. Her sassy nature and spunk was on point throughout the night, as she delivered her lines with conviction and flirtation. We commend you Ms. Hudgens, you love, are a true class act and a complete professional. Can you say powerhouse? I couldn’t imagine being able to even think about doing such a thing while dealing with so much emotional grief. The live show was dedicated in her late father- Greg Hudgen’s honor.

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Carlos Pena-Vega [Big Time Rush] was a really spot on Kenickie. I was loving how he delivered his lines with the same arrogant yet goofy flare the original Kenickie played by Jeff Conaway did. I have to say he really surprised me in a great way. Hats off.

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Carly Rae Jepsen [Singer] had to be my favorite. Now I’ll be honest, I love “Call Me Maybe” just as much as the next girl, but when I heard Jepsen had been cast in the role of Frenchy, I was a bit unconvinced. But she killed it. Not only does she look flawless decked out in [literally] head to toe pink, but Frenchy has this light spirit about her, she’s kind and more accepting then the other pink ladies. And I think Jepsen was exceptional in her delivery. Plus that moment where she shared a scene with Didi Conn (the original Frenchy) who came back to play the role of Vi (waitress at the Frosty Palace ice cream parlour) just gave me all the feels. Frenchy’s boy “Doody” was played by Jordan Fisher, and the original Doody played by Barry Pearl was on set as well, as he played Vince Fontaine’s agent. Both beautiful ways to pay homage to an incredible film. In fact Didi gave a few token Grease mementos to Carly for the live show, check out Carly’s instagram collage.

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Kether Donohue [The Carrie Diaries] wasn’t someone I recognized. But I think she was a breath of fresh air. Casting her as Jan was a great move. From her pigtails all the way to her squeaky voice, made me think fondly of her delivery. She also serves as a quiet humor in the drama that ensues between the other major couples in the story.

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The Production:

*Camera work:

Ok, this is the real deal talk here. I am mean how can I review a live show, without talking about the production side of it, right? Let me start by saying that when I watch live television I am often nervous for whoever is in that control room. From my studies in college, I know first-hand that operating a live show it is no joke. Anything can happen, anything can go wrong, and the world will see it. Well I mean maybe the world didn’t see when we’d mess up in my film production class, but still I was always so stressed. So I can only imagine the pressure felt on a much greater scale. Needless to say, I have been trained to view film and television with a critical eye. So granted I had my moments of “WHAT ARE YOU DOING!” But for the bulk of the show, I was incredibly in awe of how seamless the camera work was. Grease Live was directed by a fellow Dancing with the Stars director Alex Rudzinski and Thomas Kail who is a high in demand Broadway director known for his work with Hamilton.

Let’s just talk about that intro where the incredibly talented Jessie J. strutted throughout the set as she performed Grease (is the word). It was, I think a homage to the actual beginning of the film, where you hear the song as you see the caricatures pop up one by one, all in different locations, doing different things as the introductory credits show. As Jessie J walked throughout the set, we got to see bits and pieces of the set and all the characters coming to life for the first time. And the camera work was on point the entire time, following her every move in a kind of hand held, first person view vibe. Whatever kind of rig they used was full proof. I have to look into how they filmed that, because it was epic.

Also the black and white inserts were FANTASTIC, I was so excited to see that. In the film, as American Bandstand comes to host a dance off at Rydell high school, you see Vi and the gang watching live from the Frosty Palace and the TV shots are obviously in black and white. The inclusion of this during the dance off scene was a nice homage to the original film.

*Set Design:

Set design for Grease Live was done by Jason Howard (Dancing with the Stars.) For the most part the live show was set on a sound stage. There were a few scenes staged outside, but the outdoor scenes were minimal. Most scenes were set in the Rydell High school set, in the hallways near the lockers and in the school gymnasium. However, I imagine that the production kept to sound stage, because being that the show was live, there needed to be limited transporting of actors. Scenes were transitioned quickly. Points for the behind the scenes clips during the commercials, where we saw the actors running in between scenes to golf carts to drive them to their next scene. Super cool to see.

The race at thunder road was kind of wonky too, considering there couldn’t really be a car race, there was just a lot of tire spinning and smoke. But I get that you do what you have the means to and the allotted time for.

I did however miss the abundance of the carnival scene. The closing number of “You’re the one that I want” was performed on set and although the set was transformed into a carnival like atmosphere, it didn’t give off quite the grandiose appeal as the film. And the choreography wasn’t able to shine as much without the Shake Shack, and the Rizzo/Kenickie “I’m not pregnant” moment wasn’t the same without the Ferris Wheel. I was happy to see the closing number of “We Go Together” be performed outside, where the whole set was transformed into a carnival; Ferris Wheel and all. And I couldn’t understand why the whole segment wasn’t set there in the first place. But regardless the ending made up for it. The sheer excitement on the actors faces as they sang and took their bows, dancing and singing their hearts out, was enough to see that this was a passion project that meant the world to them. Julianne Hough’s expression was EVERYTHING!

*Glitches:

There were a few minor glitches that were noticeable, or at least to me. During the first scene after the opening number, where the gang is standing in front of Rydell High, we see a significant change in lighting. But it was corrected for the better.

During the sleepover scene, where Keke Palmer wowed as Marty singing “Freddy my love,” upon her quick change, it was as if you heard a mic scuff. I didn’t know what the noise was at first but then realized it was probably that. Super small, but bound to happen during a live show.

And lastly, during the big school dance scene there was a point where the sound just completely went out, and it felt like forever. It was a mere few seconds, but I could just imagine the sheer panic going on in the control room. I think the sound was slightly off for a few moments after that, during the Johnny Casino performance there was a weird cut, where it seemed like Joe Jonas’ song was just skipped over, and then throughout Sandy’s “Hopelessly Devoted” performance you can hear some annoying feedback, even so Julianne Hough’s vocals nailed it!

P.S. Who else noticed the Blanche character earring go flying off because girl could not stop wobbling, it was kind of irritating and overdone if you ask me. Haha. The Patty Simcox character was kind of a little too peppy for me, she was also kind of stiff and robotic, but I do think the similarities were there.

I’m just nitpicking here though, aside from that one major audio drop, everything went pretty smoothly. And I thought it all came together rather beautifully. I enjoyed it.

*Choreography

Choreography for Grease Live was done by Zach Woodlee (Glee). Although all big numbers were included, it seemed as though there were some adjustments made to the routines. Specifically in the hand jive sequence. I noticed it wasn’t the traditional moves. I took that as either a new spin to make the live show unique or that it could have possibly had something to do with copyright issues. Because I know that on Dancing with the Stars when they do movie week, they aren’t always allowed to use all the original choreography. Either way the show still went on.

*Costume Design:

Costume design for Grease Live was done by William Ivey Long (The Cutting Edge, The Producers, A slew of Broadway productions.) The dresses, the pink ladies and t-birds fashion, the Rydell high school gym clothes and cheer uniforms were on all point. The true 50’s inspiration was alive.

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*New Additions:

The script for Grease Live was constructed by Jim Jacobs (original musical) and Warren Casey (musical). Jacobs also worked with many projects including Glee and Dancing with the Stars. While Casey, worked with projects such as, Glee, Dancing with the stars, and SNL.

During last night’s live performance you may have seen some new developments in our beloved love story.

-Cultural acceptance

Different cultures and races were channeled into the main rolls. The T-birds were of an ethnic dynamic. With Pena-Vega using his Latin flare to deliver his lines as Kenickie. While Keke Palmer’s bold vocals lent Marty a new heir of confidence and sass. Along with Palmer, a few other African American actors were placed in the roles for Blanche and for Coach Calhoun. Not to mention Boyz II Men made a cameo as they sang “Beauty School Drop Out.” I have to say, I was kind of vibing! I love me some Boyz II Men.

-Script Adjustments to fit 2016

Aside from a few lyrical tweaks to PG -afye-things, and line tweaks, it was noticeable that the Grease Live script was set to be a bit more family friendly, I guess you could say. Don’t get me wrong the raunchy sex talk is still very much intact, and Rizzo and Kenickie bust out a few doozies. But the idea that they shied away from violence (instead of punching his wrestling opponent Danny just pulls down his pants revealing a pair of pink gym shorts), fat shaming (instead of focusing on Jan’s weight, they focus on her uniqueness) and bullying (Although Eugene is messed with throughout the show, Danny always gives him an out. Eugene helps the T-birds win the race at thunder road and Danny gives him his T-bird jacket to induct him into the group) was a nice change of pace now that I reflect. And although the vulgar dance moves were still a thing during the school dance off, and Sonny still spiked the bunch- he and the guys didn’t moon the camera. Shucks, I love the irony of Blue Moon playing as you see the three fellas moon the camera.

-New Songs:

“Freddy My Love” * (Written for the Original Broadway Musical but dropped for the film)

“All I Need is an Angel” * (New Original song for Grease Live)

On a scale of 1 to Grease the original, I give it a 6 (a little more than half,) because well let’s be real you can’t monkey with the original. BUT I take into account that this is a MUSICAL version and NOT a full FEATURE FILM. BUT did I enjoy the hell of it…YES. Would I watch it again…YES. Would I recommend you watch if you missed it…HELL YES. And now I’m going to go continue to listen to the original soundtrack because I’m a pile of Grease feels, now.

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Thanks for reading my in-depth Grease: Live Review.

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What’d you think of the show, let’s chat in the comments below? (Hey that rhymed!)

*I do not take credit for any images or video clips used.*

-<3-

Happy Birthday Justin Timberlake!

February 1, 2016February 1, 2016michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

BLOG UPDATE-

So I was trying to slowly make Sundays my third upload day but I kinda fell short yesterday. I wanted to post something yesterday in honor of Justin Timberlake’s 35^th Birthday, because I mean what kind of fangirl would I be if I didn’t. And since he’s not on tour or putting out an album, my fangirl posts have been lacking. But I got distracted the whole day, and then Grease: Live was on and I was hooked for 3 hours. By the time I started on my post, my internet and my computer decided to act up and I was trying to post before midnight but it just was an ongoing issue. So end result it was a failed mission. I am not going to rule out making Sundays my third post day, but I’m just going to see if it’s feasible. I’ll test the waters a bit this month. We’ll use February as a trial month for that and see how things go. Any way I’m still posting the Justin Tribute today (which was meant for Sunday,) but I will also be posting a review of Grease: Live a little later on, as an official Monday post. It’s going to take some time, because I have a lot of thoughts going on in my head about that one! Spoiler Alert: I am currently listening to the original movie’s soundtrack because my obsession with Grease has ignited. Anyway enough rambling…

jt bday

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Justin Timberlake has been my longest running obsession. I support him in basically everything he does, creatively. He is a true talent. [insert my cheesy instagram post]

HBDJT

***Some of my favorite JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE moments.***

Videos/Cinematography

Cry Me A River

What Goes Around…Comes Around

Mirrors

Tearin’ Up My Heart

God Must Have Spent A Little More Time On You

Gone

Songs/Lyrics

Lovestoned

Take Back The Night

You Got It On

I Want You Back

This I Promise You

Do Your Thing

Comedy skits

Movie scenes

Performances/Covers

Strawberry Bubblegum

Let the Groove Get In

Losing My Way

Shake Your Body (Down To The Ground)

Photo-shoots/Posters/Fashion

I had these posters hanging on my wall!

Fashion Evolution

Justin Timberlake walking along the Promenade de la Croisette

Happiest of Birthdays JT.

Thanks for the memories!

cheers

Cheers to many more.

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any JT images, videos, clips, songs, etc. used in this blog.*

A Letter of Heartbreak from Adele

January 28, 2016January 28, 2016michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Sometimes I do this thing…Read and see if you can figure it out! 😉

#AdeleShell

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Hello, it’s me.

I miss you. I’ve been sitting in my Hometown Glory, Chasing Pavements trying to Make You Feel My Love.

Don’t You Remember? When We Were Young. How you were always my One And Only, My Remedy.

It feels like a Million Years Ago, it saddens me you see.

Once upon a time, I Found a Boy one that would last, in love, a First Love, a gentleman.

If It Hadn’t Been For Love, I would have never been Hiding My Heart from you. Worried and scared to feel pain. I’d whisper to myself, He Won’t Go, he’d never leave. It’s okay.

Maybe I’m a Daydreamer. Maybe I’m Tired of feeling Crazy for You.

Rumour Has It, you’ve begun Turning Tables. All I Ask is that you keep an open mind, and consider the possibilities. Our love ain’t Water Under the Bridge, hold me like I’m more than just a friend.

Take It All, my Sweetest Devotion.

If it seems like something you cannot do, if you’re gonna let me down, let me down gently. I hope you have your memories.

Set Fire To The Rain watch it pour as I touch your face.

Give me a memory I can use.

To remind you of how I can no longer keep our Love in the Dark.

There is so much space between us.

But I’ll Be Waiting here patiently, singing you my Love Song.

We could have had it all, this I know.

But here I am, Rolling In The Deep upon the River Lea, I blame it on the River Lea.

All the memories.

I’ve saved the Best for Last to explain the Cold Shoulder, I’ve shown you in the past. I’ll share with you the worries the fears that turned into tears. The reasons that Melt My Heart to Stone.

My Same, my love, I wish to make things Right as Rain.

But we can’t go back, or so it seems. I pray for Someone Like You to walk into my world again, I bid you farewell with a kiss on the cheek.

As I courageously whisper Send My Love (To Your New Lover). Treat her better.

Love, Adele-Shell ❤

#AdeleShell

Some Adele Inspired Selfies

[make-up , hair, and outfit]

#dontjudge 😉

Adele Make-Up Tips:

Create a somewhat “flawless” face, add bronzer & blush

Fill in your brows, brush them up

Winged dark black liner on lower and upper water line as well as several coats of mascara

Beige, nude, light brown eye shadows

Nude lipstick and gloss

Adele Hair Tips:

Use second day hair

Dry shampoo, mousse, & hairspray

Blow dry top center of head

Flip head over to blow dry

Tease crown

Flip head back over

Tousle with hands until you find desired look

Adele Outfit Tips:

Black long sleeved shirt

Black furry/fuzzy vest

Faux Fur Scarf

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How many Adele song titles did you catch? Can we just talk about how purely amazing 25 is…I’ve had it on repeat since I downloaded it!

*I take no credit for the few Adele song lyrics, many song titles, and Adele images used in my edits to create this Adele 19, 21, & 25 album song titles mash-up/lyrical poem/short story. Whatever you want to call it. Haha.*

*I do however, take credit for all selfies 😉 haha.*

-<3-

Dissect A Scene: The “Burzek” Breakup #ChicagoPD

January 25, 2016January 25, 2016michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

This past Wednesday’s episode 3×12 of Chicago PD entitled “Looking Out For Stateville” hit Burzek (Kim Burgess & Adam Ruzek) fans pretty hard with Kim making a surprise ending to she and fiancé Adam’s recent engagement. I myself am a huge Burzek fan, I’ve lobbied for them since Season 1. And have really rallied behind their engagement, but this whole season has kept me weary. This scene was the last minute of the episode and it broke my heart, it has been on my mind all week and I have to speak on it!

Read this article [Spoilers involved!] to learn more about the growing frustration behind Burgess’ decision, along with Marina Squerciati’s commentary on her character’s choice.

As the engagement high seemed to fade, Burgess began wanting to make plans and move she and Adam’s life together forward. While, Adam began to play the avoidance game. This scene is the result of that hesitation.

The Dissection:

This scene in it’s entirety is just over a minute long, and yet it will have a fierce impact on the dynamic of the show. It’s held in a simple location; the convenient location of the police station’s locker room. The same locker room they go about their daily work lives in, the same locker room Ruzek proposed to her in, the same locker room these two have shared many emotional yet comforting conversations in relation to heavy days on the job, the same locker room they’ve snuck away to share private kisses and sweet moments. It’s a scene all about dialogue and small looks and silences- it’s essentially nothing fancy. There are no guns, no car chases, no bad guys to take up our time. Just two people, getting their hearts broken.

The scene is basically a one sided dialogue as Kim gets to the realization that Adam is not ready to settle down. Adam’s reactions are minor as he tries to make light of things and act like Kim’s words aren’t valid, wondering why she’s thinking this way. Although he doesn’t exactly tell her she’s wrong. He doesn’t fight for her in that moment, she tells him he’s off the hook and hands him back the engagement ring.

It isn’t until she does that and walks away, that we see how great of a loss this is for Adam, as he chokes out “Kim” after her retreating figure as his eyes stay glued to the ring in his hand. That right there broke my heart. I think the audience has been with Burgess this whole time, feeling her frustration with him. And although we support her decision, in that moment we all feel for Ruzek, because it’s evident that he does in fact love her, and he doesn’t want her to walk away from their relationship.

Marina Squerciati really shines in her vulnerability. You can tell it is taking all of Burgess’ strength to finally make this decision. And that is absolutely conveyed in Squerciati’s calm, rational, kind delivery. Kim Burgess loves Adam Ruzek, and her letting their relationship go is her understanding that maybe he’s just not in this, therefore preventing an even greater heartache in the future, if she waited it out. No woman wants to stay with a man who doesn’t actually put his plans for marriage into action. He did ask her. He knew it was soon, but he didn’t care. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

Patrick John Flueger plays these tough emotional scenes like a boss. Ruzek’s character has this appeasing nature. He’s constantly bringing the nervous and over thinking Burgess down back to earth. Burgess can kind of become like a scatter brain and rattle on and he’s got a flirtation and charm that just works. Although in his small contributions to the dialogue in this scene and his ducking behind the locker, you notice that he’s realizing he’s been in a state of avoiding moving his relationship forward. His subtle looks tell all. Yet to him, he didn’t see this coming.

But I knew this break was coming. I didn’t know how it was going to happen, and I hoped that it wouldn’t but I felt something bad was bound to happen. I am however, happy that it was Burgess who ended it, because I think everyone (**cough**Platt**cough**) figured that because of Ruzek’s list of failed engagements, he’d be the one. I just hope these two can find their way back to each other, because they truly have a love that makes you root for them. And I truly hope they don’t try and have Sean Roman make a play for Burgess because he seemed to be very vocal about Ruzek’s resistance. I think Burgess and Roman are better off as partners. Besides Lindsay and Halstead are doing the whole partner/dating thing right now, and they’re doing it well. Let’s leave that to them.

I cannot wait for this week’s episode, it sounds pretty damn good!

I just hope that Ruzek fights for her! Regardless this break up is going to cause major tension and it is going to be heart breaking but let’s face it, sexy. You know Ruzek is going to be throwing some longing stares, Burgess’ way. I have a feeling we are going to see a sign of Ruzek we haven’t really seen yet. Sure we see how much he loves her, but now we get to see him elevate that, because now he’s lost her. Now he has to grow up. And I’m also super eager to see how Burgess is going to handle working with him, should definitely be interesting.

Chicago PD airs Wednesdays on NBC @10 pm

LIVE TWEET WITH ME! (oh and the cast) 😉

@Shellbelle91

*I do not take credit for any images or videos used.*

-<3-

Dear 2016, + Happy 3rd Anniversary!

January 7, 2016January 7, 2016michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Every new coming year WordPress sends out the year’s blogging report. It highlights categories like, crunchy numbers (popular posts), posting patterns, attractions, how did they find you? (referring sites,) where are the views coming from? (from around 137 countries total- with most views from The U.S., France and Germany,) and comments from viewers. This year I was blessed to gain new followers, and to finally meet an unconscious goal I’ve had of reaching 100 followers, plus a few extras along the way. I noticed that once I realized I hit 100, I mentally checked it off my list.

Read my Thank You note (and more on that topic) HERE.

I recently noticed that my blog got more traction when I began posting an abundance of short stories/series. And I also realized how effective categorizing and tagging are.

As michelle leigh writes- 3^rd Anniversary is coming up tomorrow- January 8^th, I decided to dive into the inner workings of this blog and re-evaluate what works and what doesn’t. As the old cliché says; Practice makes perfect. And I truly believe that mlw has come quite a long way since my first post.

Check it out HERE for a Blast from the Past

happy 3 year anniversary

Thank You

I’ve noticed that it’s difficult for me to always come up with something to post on the days I’ve committed myself to; Mondays & Thursdays. For the most part I stuck to this schedule pretty consistently. I think the only time I missed a day that I can actually recall, was on Christmas, but I posted Friday instead. As I saw on my posting patterns, there were a few Sunday, Wednesday and Friday posts along the way, but for the most part the schedule stuck. And I’m pretty damn proud of that fact. It has been really important to me to stick to this schedule to maintain a consistency. But I also want to maintain a credibility and put out worthy content, and not just fillers. Which is something that I think I often struggle with, because inspiration isn’t always consistent. Every writer has their dry spells. However, as I’ve noticed my latest post record has filled me with much more joy. As short stories have been somewhat of a trend for me.

Over the past few years that I’ve had this blog, I usually tell you what we can look forward to in the New Year. I give you a list of things I want to work on, I share my resolutions with you. But this year I’m not going to do that, because the greater the list (and you know I love my lists) the more likely they won’t happen. The list can put the pressure on. So I know there are some things I’d like to do on this blog, ways to improve it, but I think I’m going to keep them to myself and let you be surprised when they happen. No resolutions, just helpful ideas to achieve a better life and by extension- a better blog.

As for the content, there will continue to be short stories, and poetry. And as much as I at times feel like this blog is all over the place with no consistent message, and I would love to just stick solely to sharing stories with you, I do have other interests. Sometimes things will fall into the lifestyle genre, fashion genre or the movie/music review genre.

This reminds me of a story. In college, I had to start a blog for a class. The blog had to center around one thing. I chose music. I love music and I love lyrics and analyzing the meaning behind why an artist writes their words. But being confined to one subject drove me crazy at times. I felt like it limited my creativity. I like the freedom to post what I love and enjoy, despite the subject matter/genre/category.

As I ponder all of this, I am suddenly reminded of the phrase attached to this blog; the phrase written just beneath my blog name; “A safe place for the written word.” That’s the message of this blog. To allow myself (and all of you) to feel welcome to read and write about what we feel is important to the nurture of our souls and spirits.

Obviously I still feel that there are things I’d like to change and work on. There’s always room for improving your craft. And the more you do it, the more confidant you will feel about your ability to do it.

I remember a professor/mentor of mine used to always say, “A draft is never done.” No matter how any times you proof, edit, or rewrite it. And it’s true you can always find ways to change things, to make it better. But you have to write it in the first place.

So as we move forward into the New Year, my hope for this blog, is simply to keep it going. At this moment the schedule will remain the same. But as life changes, it may vary, (but I will always keep you posted.) Things may start to change slowly, but I only wish to strive to make this blog better- more fun, and more interesting to read. So thank you for coming along on this journey. I look forward to all the love stories that are to be written and shared here on michelle leigh writes along with anything else I feel to share. I do hope you stick around. And I thank you again. And let us once again rejoice and say a big…..HAPPY 3 YEAR ANNIVERSARY MLW!!! I am so proud!

Stay Tuned!

(And yes Love Conflicted readers, I WILL finish it, I promise. In the meantime…catch up HERE!)

Love conflicted new poster love conflicted new poster ft. lily and ian

Follow me on Twitter: @Shellbelle91

*Spoiler Alert: I tweet about television shows for the most part, #LIVETWEETER.

-<3-

Michelle Leigh Writes

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