tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50402162273572851062024-02-20T08:29:13.382-08:00Rune's Potion Chamber BlogA simple pottermore user just babbling on.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.comBlogger172125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-29722998721664674592016-05-14T23:00:00.003-07:002016-05-14T23:00:28.830-07:00Pottermore Corporate NewsSo, Pottermore has once again released some <a href="https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/06979090/filing-history/MzE0NjEwNDQ2OGFkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0">corporate</a> <a href="https://beta.companieshouse.gov.uk/company/06979090/filing-history/MzE0NjEwNDA4M2FkaXF6a2N4/document?format=pdf&download=0">documents</a>. And this has some... interesting notes. The Dark Lord of Pottermore seems to have gained more power.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>So, with the new corporate documents, we have the announcement of Susan Jurevics and Dan Marks being made Directors. For most of you, who have decided to have fun with your lives rather than reading the soul-crushing details of corporate law and structure, you likely don't know why this matters. (Though it should be noted this author only has a cursory knowledge of British corporations, with more of a focus towards the Americans... but it *should* mostly carry over here.) <br />
<br />
So here's the divvy, using dear Susan as an example. CEOs, and officers in general, they manage a corporation's <i>people </i>and <i>resources, </i>but with a major restriction. They answer to shareholders, namely individuals that "represent" the shareholders, known as <i>directors</i>. In essence, Susan still has a "boss" as CEO.<br />
<br />
Now, here's where it gets interesting, CEOs, and other officers, can wear multiple hats. Just because you're the CEO, doesn't mean you can't be a director. And importantly, the directors get more control over the corporation, while they use officers like the CEOs to manage it all.<br />
<br />
So now, as of April 13, Ms. Jurevics has become her own boss to some extent. She is by no means, the only director, but she has more ability to sway and use resources than she might have previously.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure if this is a good, or a bad thing for our dear Pottermore. I mean, the site as it is, is dead. It's dull. It's boring and the only reason to go is perhaps Fantastic Beasts news, which is better sourced through Hypable (with Hypable even breaking the Illvermorny news, PRIOR to Pottermore).<br />
<br />
I honestly cannot wait until Pottermore's next report comes out in December (likely) as even though this fiscal year has come, I'm uncertain if there is truly that much further income coming into Pottermore, rather than just some advertising revenue from Warner Bros.<br />
<br />
Oh, and we're still waiting on that Patronus Quiz...<br />
<br />
Stay hopeful?<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-4821066604007543252016-05-12T22:17:00.000-07:002016-05-12T22:18:50.730-07:00The (potential) Four Houses of IllvermornySo, it's been announced on Hypable and a few other sites that the four houses, or house animals at least, for Illvermorny are "Horned Serpent," "Thunder Bird," "Puckwudgie," and "Wampus."<br />
<br />
Well, Rowling sure does love us Americans huh?<br />
<a name='more'></a>Now before I go further, I want to make this clear. I have very limited understanding of the Native American culture, and I am VERY hesitant to go too far in, and so I will just analyze this from a few different angles, and when I stop it is mostly because I think it's a space I should not talk about too much. That being said, I think there is one thing that needs to be very, very well understood.<br />
<br />
Jo. Is not. American. I mean, in my last post on the matter, I made out to show some complaints and such, about her sort of misunderstanding or well, muddling our history at parts. To be honest, there are aspects I think she got right (like earlier mingling of wizarding populations, as color of skin was likely not as high on their discrimination scale as the muggles/no-maj populations). But the problem is, the history and the development of culture in the United States is deeply, inordinately related to struggles of racial oppression, integration, and a unique brand of individualism that makes us a VERY strange animal. American culture can be both the most xenophobic and inclusive thing at times, and it's sort of that duality that matters. On that note, Jo is not an American. She's still distinctly British but as the world expands, it's good to keep that in mind, because there are going to be many, many things about Americans that she may write that will be strange for us. Our differences are larger than calling lories "trucks" and biscuits "cookies." This is American culture written from an outsider's perspective, which should be taken as more edifying for the purposes of how it's seen abroad than any attack or earnest representation of ourselves. So my fellow 'muricans, "chill."<br />
<br />
So before addressing the largest elephant in the room, let's go over the house animals.<br />
A Horned Serpent is a creature associated with waters and the rivers, from some research, it appears that they were associated in both healing and harm, medicine and poisons. There was a story in which two children escaped from an evil woman by fleeing using the Horned serpent, by picking the toads that were bothering it, and convincing it they had popped them and killed them. There are also some tales involving a sort of animosity between the Horned Serpent and the Thunder Bird.<br />
<br />
The Thunder bird is described by rowling as closely related to the phoenix but I think that's a very poor description. They are considered sacred, as are the horned serpents, and there have been stories of sacrifices to these birds. And they are symbols of power, and it appears that they are also symbols of authority. Notably, these birds seem to be more often affiliated with the North West than the East Coast. They are responsible for the sounds of thunder, and according to some, lightning.<br />
<br />
Pukwudgies, while they would be apt to be called the "hufflepuff-look alike" to some extent based on name alone, are not nearly as cuddly as the badger. They are small, trollish creatures that are alleged to transform into something that looks more like a porcupine. However, they also seem to have a particularly dark reputation. There is a story, of how they wanted to be loved by a tribe, but as the tribe lauded gifts on their creator giants, the Pukwudgies caused some retribution upon them. Based off descriptions, they seem to be closer to Red Caps than anything else I can imagine.<br />
<br />
This leaves us to the Wampus, which a cougar-like creature, with a connection to various tales two of which I could find were of a woman that left to spy on the men, and was punished for it, and another was of a woman that became a guardian for her tribe. There were other things I had read as well, including connections to the earth and connotations of death.<br />
<br />
Now while my descriptions are <i>woefully </i>inadequate, especially as we have no idea how Rowling sees these creatures, there should be a few connotations that people can see. There is a snake, bird, feline and "rodent-y" creature mentioned, analogous to our dear Hogwarts's Serpent, Eagle, Lion, and Badger. From this, I would actually argue that either the analogous houses would be Slytherin= Horned Serpent/Pukwudgie, Ravenclaw=horned serpent/thunderbird, Gryffindor=Thunder bird, Hufflepuff=Wampus, or there IS no good analogue to each house, and there are different values from the cunning, clever, kind and brave of the UK. To some extent, this second one seems more likely, especially given 1) when Hogwarts was formed in comparison to Ilvermorny and 2) the fact that houses and sorting were secondary to Ilvermorny. In the time of Hogwarts, the houses and the crests were those of it's founders, embodying their values, which in the time of it's founding, were likely the values more prominent in the day. Not to trash Ilvermorny, but given its establishment after Salem, bravery may not have been a trait to have. Yes, there were good reasons to be brave, but better reasons to be clever and cunning. There would likely be different traits from the pre-arthurian ones, when witches and wizards could still, to some extent, feasibly use magic around their non-magical counterparts. In addition, as Ilvermonry started as two teachers with two students, I would only argue that houses were a secondary feature, taken on later, possibly by those four individuals. That being said, at least some of them were likely from the UK, leading to the implementation of the house system as a way of breaking down the courses among different students.<br />
As such, I'd state that Thunder Bird would be the house of "leadership," Horned Serpent the house of "innovation" regarding the duality of the creature, Wampus being the house of "family" (based largely off of this <a href="http://www.appalachianhistory.net/2014/10/story-of-wampus-cat.html">story</a>) and Pukwudgie being the house of "passion" or "determination" based off of their desire to be liked turning to rage, and their tenacity in fighting giants.<br />
<br />
So we have a what, how, and part of the why regarding the houses of Ilvermorny, but now, for the larger "why?" namely "Why go for creatures that the Native American culture considers sacred?" Now there are a few in-cannon ways I could go about it, namely the newcomers did not see the creatures as sacred and just appropriated them to best demonstrate their values. In the Wizarding World Rowling has created, these creatures are very real, and some of the sacred nature probably was de-mystified as wizards may have even used some of these creatures in wand woods (we know thunder bird and wampus cat hair are used). As for the out of cannon reasons, it does not play out nearly as neatly. I'm willing in part to give Rowling a pass on some of this, well, most of it, principally because she does NOT know the culture, and I sincerely want to like Fantastic Beasts and what she has planned for Wizard-NYC. However, the difficulty in all of it is it is still very, very much Brittish. Which fits the East Coast to some extent, but not the United States and it's culture as a whole. I mean there are some parts that seem correct. We overreact. (See Salem and the ban on inter-marriage/the "SUPER SECRECY STATUTE" that Dorcas caused.) And we're a bit, fearful at times leading to questionable decisions. (Again, see Salem.) And we're just rather nuts in general. (See Salem AND the "Second Salemers.") But we're more complex than that. One of our presidents sent the Native American population on a death march across the country. We had slavery and we have had multiple waves of blatant xenophobia come across the nation to the point where one can summarize the American Experience as being the new kid, picked on and harassed, only to join in on the picking on when someone newer comes along.<br />
<br />
But that's the thing. Rowling is again, very British. She's looking at this from how she thinks we would. Would Americans be content to just have a wolf as a house emblem? No, that wolf would have fire jutting out from its jaw and it would poop gold. There's also the fact that those in the United States, up till relatively recently, were mostly content with naming sports teams after the native peoples to varying degrees of respect given. What person wouldn't think this is what we'd do? It is a bird that shoots lightning, a giant snake, a mountain lion with like, 6 legs and a tiny porcupine troll that kills giants.<br />
<br />
So while it is pretty offensive, it's certainly also very, very American. That being said, we should probably realize that there's still some saving graces available for Rowling to make some effort to patch up her mistakes.<br />
<br />
(On that note, if she ever reads this... OMG JO! I LOVE YOU! Seriously though, if you want to write more on America... call me. I'm a history buff and a major nerd. Or at least talk with a few of our history professors. And a few other people. Seriously, research. Still love you. You are the queen!)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-3824325369908402872016-03-13T19:25:00.001-07:002016-03-13T19:25:56.523-07:00Rowling's Wizard America: Summary and Review<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZVAGNVl8hV1TxIWvBOAbC8GAZSanzqjc_GlYM_d9uOwUIOC5FTxnSc5pGElNlO4MNqYPj-fSd46R27NRmV2Rpumeg19fcn913xiULKZvpo_cCCkarReNK3qBjp7J7f0HHPeGDjo5p-q5/s1600/Screenshot+2016-03-13+at+07.24.57+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="99" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4ZVAGNVl8hV1TxIWvBOAbC8GAZSanzqjc_GlYM_d9uOwUIOC5FTxnSc5pGElNlO4MNqYPj-fSd46R27NRmV2Rpumeg19fcn913xiULKZvpo_cCCkarReNK3qBjp7J7f0HHPeGDjo5p-q5/s320/Screenshot+2016-03-13+at+07.24.57+PM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Well... what can go wrong?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
So Pottermore released things
again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a wonderful release of
writings by JK<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rowling on North American
Wizardry. After the break we have a quick summary of what was in the posts, as well as some reaction. If you want to get straight to the reaction, please just scroll down. </div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Day one we got the earlier history,
with Native Americans having made limited contact with European witches and
wizards, as well as the foundation of a few bits of magic. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly Jo does take a stab at Native
American myth in passing with her description of Skin Walkers as essentially
animagi with a bad reputation. To those who don’t know the myth, the gist is
actually closer to something like in the warlock’s hairy heart, where an
individual commits a tabooed act (like sacrificing family members) to gain the
ability to take on animal form. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, we
know in the wizarding world animagi are rare, but the act isn’t akin to the
dark arts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(I have a few odd remarks for
Rowling later).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Furthermore we get another group
that seems to be skilled in wandless magic, as she discusses the Native
American’s skill for potions, and what would essentially be Herbology and Care
of Magical Creatures (or whatever animal magic might be… and again, more on
this later). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
So on day two, we have Salem, which
I’ve posted a theory on before and I have to say I was well, fairly off. First
I attributed much of the noxious activity to nogtails, and assumed that the
witch hunters would more likely than not be muggles… well “no-maj”es (what is
the plural of no-maj?).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it was the
result of “scourers” who were witches and wizards that had elected to sell-out
their counterparts and profit off of the ensuing activities (one can imagine
that a scourer would rat out someone well-off, and confiscate their things, or
attempt to do so). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what is the
result? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well it was something of a
two-fer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First, witches and wizards
banded together and sentenced the scourers, which ended with a “curse” by them…
in the form of their children, who they raised to be effectively the Dursleys
of America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Essentially, these children
have a strong belief in magic, and are raised to want to stomp it out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The second is the creation of the
MACUSA. And I’ll comment on this later…. (if you have a bad feeling, well
there’s a reason for that). With the creation of the MACUSA, we had the
eventual outing of Dorcas Twintrees on day three and a massive violation of the Statute of
Secrecy, which lead to a policy of segregation by witches and wizards,
resulting in the more concealed nature of the wizarding population. So essentially not only does the wizarding community have to deal with an overly-alert muggle-er-no-maj population, but a rather pretty, but dim, girl made it more frustrating. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Following this, we have the implementation of Rapport's Law, from the year 1790 and onward to 1920, where it was roughly described on day four that the wizarding community was not going along with prohibition and that such interactions were limited, with a prohibition on marrying outside of magic. Oh and more wand cores, wand makers, and a wand registration... more than you can shake a wand at. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">So, time to begin addressing the elephants in the room. </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Rowling does NOT know American
history well. I do not think after reading this anyone would say that she knows it well.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I can’t</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">state this enough. There’s a lot Rowling does
well, but it's now painfully American history isn’t her strong suit. Magical Congress of the United States of America shouldn’t have been called that. The 1690s were far,
far removed from the Revolutionary War, and even there the States were not “The United States of America” till approximately 1788.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">So the United States were not really a “thing” till that point... and we're roughly a hundred years early on it. I can honestly accept that the ministry was not directly governing the new witches and wizards in the then-colonies, but I can honestly believe more of a "Confederacy of the American Territories" than anything stating the "United States." Maybe this was a predecessor, and she's just using the current name, but it could have been described in a line, and I'm honestly a bit saddened at it. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Next let’s discuss Salem. Not many
people actually died, during the event and Rowling is making it into a much bigger matter than
it actually was. Rather, more emphasis should be given into detailing the "trafficking" of their magical brethren. It may lead to uncomfortable situations, but the trials seem to be a much smaller note than the rest of this, and with the reign of the Scourers seems like it may be an interesting setting for a story, perhaps (and this is just me) more interesting than Newt in 1920. Perhaps even connecting the Scourers to the Revolutionary war as they seek "legitimate" employ and pardon pushing towards a proper creation of the MACUSA. </div>
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And this brings me to the Skin-changers. To be honest, when the announcement video popped up it was the first thing I looked up. When I did, the way I figured Rowling would incorporate it into the series would be "Animagi with a bad reputation." I kind of hoped that there would be some significant change, but nope. It was pretty much that. She's gotten a lot of flack for it. I don't know exactly the damage, and I can't begin to imagine it. But I would think that Rowling would do this to a great bit of history, and to some extent she has. Perhaps she could have made them a sort of being like Vampires, but I'm uncertain that this would really be that progressive, and characterizing the myth as "witches and wizards being persecuted" makes sense in the Wizarding World. What's perhaps more offensive, at least to me, is the sort of hand-waving that goes on in regards to what "animal magic" is, or perhaps the extent to which the native magical community welcomed their European brethren. Really, I feel the Native American witches and wizards were short-changed here. I can deeply understand why Rowling didn't go further, given the initial reaction, but I honestly think she should have perhaps just gone into further detail and sell the information as a book. </div>
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And finally, the biggest elephant, and one I don't think many people wanted to touch. Scourers trafficked other witches and wizards. Now. Let that sink in. The can it opens is immense, and perhaps the only apt way to criticize Rowling is this. "No. Just no. Don't touch, back away. You aren't ready for this one. Thank you for not going into further detail here." If I read it right, it seems to be a slavery issue. But why? Why on earth would this be mentioned and put out there? </div>
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So is this good? Well it's decent background. It gives an excuse as to how witches and wizards were set up in the United States. However, I do think its overall just meh. Rowling's world has the benefit of being so close to our own, and yet so far, but that is exactly <i>why </i>the history matters, and why the accuracy matters, and why it matters that she does so well. The Wizarding World is growing beyond Harry, and indeed, these are growing pains, but give Rowling time. Perhaps Rowling needs to leave her box a bit, come to the United States and learn a bit more of the history and the people.</div>
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But no matter what, I will say this. Rowling does hit one aspect of us Americans spot on. We do have a habit of overreacting at times. So take it all with some salt. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-82386905445600363422016-02-28T12:29:00.000-08:002016-02-28T12:29:08.611-08:00Universal Studios Trip Report: HELLO HOGSMEDE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJogDItjK81tgxcTb5ND0W94GD_9FYIOY3O_gW0GdeUjvELSdtNoMUsD-Y3sFKzHAhlA9xoFzuKrU2jgIlDz_Sn-kJIuj1sbNWITnY5FL6j4ia_mM_PM9Au1yObvC4paeQ_ybPsxYREorP/s1600/12795450_824002627725477_2065919676268595150_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJogDItjK81tgxcTb5ND0W94GD_9FYIOY3O_gW0GdeUjvELSdtNoMUsD-Y3sFKzHAhlA9xoFzuKrU2jgIlDz_Sn-kJIuj1sbNWITnY5FL6j4ia_mM_PM9Au1yObvC4paeQ_ybPsxYREorP/s320/12795450_824002627725477_2065919676268595150_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soft Open Prep: it took about 2 hours after open to get Hogsmede running. </td></tr>
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So, I was up to something special this Saturday. I decided to go to Universal Studios, and see how Hogsmede and Hogwarts were doing. And they were open. So, I, as your loyal... whatever I am, decided to share the information, as well as provide a quick difference between the two coasts I've visited.<br />
So let's get started after the break!<br />
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<a name='more'></a>Before discussing Hogsmede in any detail, it's probably best to get some basic facts out of the way in regards to the park itself and the costs. Universal Hollywood is a LOT smaller and more space-conscious than its sister parks out east. There aren't as many attractions, and there is just one park. In all honesty, you probably can do every ride at least once in a day if that is your goal, even though the park's hours of operation may be fairly short the day you go(9am-6pm in February). Rides are commonly open an hour past park "closing." Rather, that was the case when I went, your experience may vary). There aren't many lands, and to be honest, the bane of your existence will not be locals but tour groups from outside the U.S. (tour groups=congestion. Congestion=BAD TIMES). While it's a problem at other parks-I'm looking at you Disneyland- it's not as pronounced as it is at Universal. <br />
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The second thing that bears mentioning is how Universal Hollywood <b><i>is</i></b> a functioning movie studio. You can sign up for VIP tours of the Backlot (with unlimited line-cutting privileges) and while it's costly, at $229 the day I had gone, it's not a terrible cost for what it gets you (a private tour where you can walk through sets and get a meal cooked by Universal's executive chef). You don't need to get the VIP tour if you want to see the backlot though, as the backlot is open and has times posted for tours in English, Spanish, and Mandarin.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Amex Lounge... VERY comfy.</td></tr>
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The third note-I promise I'll get to Hogsmede soon-but if you are BUYING tickets for universal, this is likely your best option. Buy tickets ONLINE to get a discount. Discounts may be 15 dollars cheaper than gate price, and perhaps 20 dollars cheaper factoring in additional bonuses like the front of the line pass. Front of the line functions differently to express pass out east. It is a one use per ride function, which during the summer, makes massive amounts of sense (curse you tour groups). However, during off seasons, it is a little less so, but at an additional cost of 54 dollars at gate for upgrade, it's not terrible. Though they DO sell out if you buy later in the day, so if you plan on upgrading, it's likely best to do so by noon. Of course, this is all factoring in crowds PRIOR to the Hogwarts influx. An added note is for AMEX card holders. If you buy at the gate, or upgrade to a front of the line pass (if you have an annual pass or bought tickets earlier) you can go to the private AMEX lounge, with free water, AC, snacks, and WiFi. You only need ONE person in your party to do this. So if you're a pass holder and want to treat family and friends, this is a great way, especially over the summer.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ollivander's Do NOT lean against the wall.<br />There are 3 hidden doors there. </td></tr>
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Now, on to Hogsmede. Really, Hogsmede looks just like it does in Orlando. The only (major) difference is the lack of Dueling Dragons (AKA Dragon Challenge). It's not much that I can complain about, though, I suppose if you wanted a more thrilling ride in Hollywood, it will be rather tough to find. Additionally, weather is bound to be better (it's 100 degrees out but it's a dry heat) than it's eastern cousins but luckily Hogsmede west learned one other lesson from the eastern set. Ollivanders is larger, and the walkways are generally wider as well. There are multiple carts for butterbeer, and Hogsmede has plenty of space. It also opened with the interactive spell casting medallions (you may go to certain spots after having bought a wand from Ollivander's and cast spells to make effects go off in the land). In addition, the wand carts are often out in full force. There is also the Toad choir, which sounded magnificent (if not confusing when they broke into an acapella number... I admit I scratched my head at that one).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Front of the Line Portrait Room</td></tr>
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Hogwarts itself is a splendor, if but a bit dark in certain parts. I admit I nearly ran into things a bit too often, though my night vision is a bit poor. The ride itself however, I think was a massive improvement from Orlando. I'm uncertain if the benches were different exactly, but they felt more comfortable, so some adjustment may have been made. The addition of the 3d was an immense help, as the action felt a bit more real, and immersive as a result (yes I tried to catch that snitch, THANK ME FOR MY WORK MALFOY). And more credit is earned regarding the flight goggles, the 3D glasses that miraculously managed to stay on my face. Though perhaps an even better advantage to it's eastern sibling is in the immensely shortened wait time. While I recommend going through the entire queue once, in stand by, the ride also has front of the line, and single rider. I had the luck of running into a lovely gentleman when the ride time was 35 minutes (earlier in the day it was a mere 10, and it capped out at 55 minutes) that had ridden the ride a mere 2 minutes prior to boarding on single rider. It took me approximately 15 minutes going through standby, and 5 minutes in Front of the Line. I basically walked right on to my bench. Given this, the <i>only </i>reason I recommend going standby at least once is so you can make sure to see everything. The full queue takes you through the greenhouse, statues, by Snape's classroom and statues, portraits, and the point hour glasses. While Front of the Line will take you through a separate (but similar) portrait room, it won't take you by the rest of it. Another reason to go with the full queue is for an opportunity to get a drink in line, though I HIGHLY suggest finishing it.<br />
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The ride <i>is </i>rough. When they say no loose objects, and indeed they encourage people to place all loose objects in the lockers provided before getting in line, or to leave it with someone that won't be riding, they do mean it. My brother got queasy after one go round, and when I did ride with cellphone in pocket, I could feel it shifting a wee bit. Thus I may suggest, if you do wish to take pictures while in line, consider getting a small bag (Dobby may suggest a sock) that you may tie up and attach to your belt or a belt loop and slip into your pocket. Either that, or stuff your pocket so securely that it is bulging and nothing will slip out.<br />
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Yet, I will say the best feature of the land, oddly enough, is the cast that Universal has in the land. I cannot state how much I enjoyed the gentle prods of "ah... Slytherin" I got. Needless to say, I went in, wearing the house emblem large and proud. It seems like they will comment on your house, and I have to say I enjoyed that as much as going through Hogwarts and it's quite fun to play along. Likewise, they will happily break character to help you if you need it, to explain the mundane, muggle parts of the land. I honestly had a few fun back and forths between myself and staff, with one notable one during my trip to the Owl Post (HI PUPPY, CAT, ASPHODEL, RUNA, MG, and NEWT).<br />
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With all that being said, if you are in the Southern California area PRIOR to April 7. Go to Universal Studios Hollywood. This may be your best chance to enjoy everything at the park, with minimal wait times.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2SaJhIa9mi9HfFvHDWbkUNf1jMu-JwRpcjR0pwPVrkqpokQtXgm_KQhCti8OAWL7n2B8erv2rXZ1mQ_31B1I8TRA5syfDawUmt3yCN0IOD_aSaeK4Sfy3JpeJKP1ERqot306Xu_juC-1/s1600/12802792_824123684380038_4308860229286543958_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb2SaJhIa9mi9HfFvHDWbkUNf1jMu-JwRpcjR0pwPVrkqpokQtXgm_KQhCti8OAWL7n2B8erv2rXZ1mQ_31B1I8TRA5syfDawUmt3yCN0IOD_aSaeK4Sfy3JpeJKP1ERqot306Xu_juC-1/s640/12802792_824123684380038_4308860229286543958_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hope to see you soon!</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-13802635606099748312016-01-30T11:30:00.000-08:002016-01-30T11:30:06.581-08:00Pottermore Did Some Things!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/pottermore/images/c/c8/B1C7M2.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20120607161745" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/pottermore/images/c/c8/B1C7M2.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20120607161745" height="240" width="640" /></a></div>
So Pottermore finally did a thing.<br />
Sorting is back. And so are wands. And so is....<br />
Oh... news... this couldn't be a bombshell....<br />
Nevermind.<br />
<a name='more'></a>Well. On September 18, Pottermore died. That was THE last day of accounts, of dueling and brewing and the things those brought.<br />
<br />
Yesterday, January 28, Pottermore has added BACK old features for the second time in it's existence.<br />
<br />
The abilities to sign in, be sorted, and get a wand. So for those of you keeping track. That's One, Two, Three, Four and a half months of time... to re-install an old feature. I cannot help but feel like a mixture between the amazing wonder that Harry had in the first half of the series, sharply grinding up against a growing cynicism and anger that we see towards the Ministry in the latter books.<br />
<br />
They had the feature. This should not have been a major improvement, but it is. Though the downside is still... what do the accounts do?<br />
<br />
When point earning was still a thing, accounts made sense. Now, as much as I wanted my own account back, it feels like what people call the "resurrection stone" option really is one. It returns your account to the living but it does not seem to belong in this plane of existence. It feels more like targeted advertisement than it does an actual feature on the site.<br />
<br />
Making this slightly more amusing is you can now completely clone your account. Messed up you username in round one? USE IT AGAIN IN ROUND TWO.<br />
<br />
Want to create an army of your clones calling you L.S. (CENSORED)lord? Go for it. There is no filter as the My account is only viewable to yourself.<br />
<br />
So following on the heels of sorting, that news seems to be massively overshadowed by.... The reveal of three new wizarding schools. Uagadou in Africa, Castelobruxo in South America, and the North American school, Ilvermorny. (Why don't I mention Mahoutokoro of Japan? Because we already knew about it from the cherry wand entry.)<br />
<br />
Of this, we did get bios on 6 out of the 11 schools, with 4 unnamed and Ilvermony being well... a "we'll add it later" message. For more on this... come back later! Oh I know you may not like it, but there's a LOT of information to obsess about, especially when you look closely at that map.<br />
<br />
Also stay tuned as I call out while I analyze this whole play as a PR move... because goodness knows, it's a doozy.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-3641075305067353762016-01-23T11:40:00.002-08:002016-01-25T12:10:52.914-08:00Jurevics's Keynote: Why the Strategy Shift is Ill-Planned<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.brandchannel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pottermore-relaunch-welcome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.brandchannel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/pottermore-relaunch-welcome.jpg" height="211" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So, this is also a bit late, but in the last few months, Jurevics gave a Keynote on Pottermore, and the recent strategy shift.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Now, unfortunately, the keynote is not online, and I was not there, but combining various story sources, the key focus seems to be on the change Pottermore had in what it's valued demographic was.<br />
<br />
For those of us that have not had our souls sucked out of them by academic dementors to have the pleasure of learning what a demographic is, they are slices of the population that buy your things and like you.<br />
<br />
So the goal of a demographic is to figure out who will purchase your things, and how to pander to them best. Naturally, this leads to occasionally sexist methods at times. Boys products are given darker colors, girls products are turned pink and sparkly. The way it sort of works is, subtle or not, they change the look to better "appeal" to their new core audience.<br />
<br />
Don't believe me? I would dare many of you to check out websites for people in Pottermore's new core demographic. Look at things meant for women aged say, 15 to 35. Give them a bredth of 20 years. Look up "female friendly web design." The result will likely surprise a few of you, or shock others.<br />
<br />
For myself, checking amongst the links I read that handwriting is like a magnet to women... wait wasn't the new logo handwritten... okay.<br />
So, then they go to the idea that this would be a great example of fem-friendly web-design.<br />
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<a href="http://marketingtowomenonline.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451e86969e20133ec6316fc970b-800wi" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://marketingtowomenonline.typepad.com/.a/6a00d83451e86969e20133ec6316fc970b-800wi" height="162" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now contrast with Pottermore</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTVW1AEpXBjMfzRb9SlUoob7LgGiGnNHlnILvvQuSf-RkFSe05vPv1R3xu2Zrv6C-p9DTpPoky1HLAiab0DYxiKO1DBXd-TcVigMZ6v6hz6Lvl4QqD9YjV-Tt_zPHV7fGN91i8mT1dDlP/s1600/Screenshot+2016-01-17+at+11.47.02+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTVW1AEpXBjMfzRb9SlUoob7LgGiGnNHlnILvvQuSf-RkFSe05vPv1R3xu2Zrv6C-p9DTpPoky1HLAiab0DYxiKO1DBXd-TcVigMZ6v6hz6Lvl4QqD9YjV-Tt_zPHV7fGN91i8mT1dDlP/s320/Screenshot+2016-01-17+at+11.47.02+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now, let's forget about that for now.<br />
<br />
Imagine that Pottermore was designed with such things in mind. Make it appeal to women, Susan decreed from on high. Make it appeal to women <i>like any other website out there</i>. This is where I say Pottermore has failed.<br />
<br />
Mostly, because I think Pottermore's audience are not just "women." You have a bleeding fandom. Potter is it's own "demographic" in my own opinion, and I'd push towards acknowledging that, while I'm VERY certain women are predominantly the fans of Potter (I would quite honestly be flying against everything I know and have seen in the world if I were to say otherwise). I do not think that the women of Potter are as easily played to as Pottermore's design seems to imply. It makes me think of the Nostalgia Critic's line on chick flicks, where chick flicks can be great, but you can't excuse what's bad by saying "well... it's a chick flick" and likewise the genre should be no excuse for poor effort and choices.<br />
<br />
Here, I feel like this is that sort of "chick flick" in web design. There are undoubtably good female friendly websites out there when it comes to design. Apple comes to mind as one mentioned, which I generally think has a better layout and format. But Apple isn't Pottermore. Even thinking of the other elements that I've seen listed, the writing style, the use of color, I still think Hypable's design is much better than anything at use at Pottermore.<br />
<br />
In addition, I will venture out to say I think that perhaps, the removal of the game elements would likely have gone against that real key demographic that I have seen. Many of the most avid players of Pottermore I had seen were again, women. I do not know if this was because of weird registration, or guys losing interest, or just a shortage of guys to begin with. I do not know, though I have occasionally thought, that this is because they are mothers, who have read the series, and are looking for a safe and wonderful way for their children to get into the series. I've seen comments like that quite a bit, of parents lamenting the changes before their children finished.<br />
<br />
But, quite honestly, I'm uncertain.<br />
<br />
For all I know, Pottermore kept demographics that showed that women did not use the gaming features much, and as a result, games were removed as they were deemed as "irrelevant." It could be very well that we are all experiencing the parable of the three blind men and the elephant. All of us may see different things, but until Pottermore publicly releases it's stats, we have to rely on each other's experiences and piecing them all together.<br />
<br />
But perhaps the worst aspect of this shift is how Pottermore has inadvertently limited itself.<br />
<br />
Pottermore in it's demo shift is ignoring the massive potential that almost ANY game associated with the series could have.<br />
<br />
They do a simple RPG following a random student through the series, it'll be good.<br />
<br />
They do a simple RPG with a student AFTER the series, even better. Really, it's impossible for almost any game feature to fall extraordinarily flat, assuming that the requisite amount of effort is put into it. Pottermore is licensing the books then it should truly license the games as well. I'm uncertain if this is lingering bad taste due to their partnership with Sony, but EA, or Nintendo would be great partners on that sort of venture. EA has given us Potter games in the past with most of them passable, and could be enhanced by the Pottermore experience, and interconnectivity (imagine, if Pottermore were to allow you to hook up your account, giving you rewards and extra content available online for achievements). I believe it's this feature that many of the fans were sorely missing.<br />
<br />
Yes it is wonderful to have all the information searchable (even if the search function is sketchy on the site) but thinking about what Potter is as a brand, it was never about easy answers. Rowling's website should be used (and probably was used) as an example of what to do, and to never lose track of that start. Her website had us searching for things, exploring, trying new things, and while I'm certain this may come as a surprise to those that run Pottermore, it is a core experience of gaming, and more importantly, a core experience from the high points of the Potter fandom.<br />
<br />
We love to speculate. We love to play detective. I don't think women are any less likely to want to theorize and piece together the puzzle.<br />
<br />
Goodness, even look at the response the fandom gave Jo's bizarre tweet. We ADORE this element of the fandom, and Pottermore should embrace it.<br />
<br />
The current strategy shuns this sense of discovery, and perhaps that's why Pottermore doesn't feel very Potter-esque.<br />
<br />
There's no mystery. There's no challenge. There's no sense of discovery. And it's beyond unfortunate if that is because Pottermore believes that young women just don't care about that sort of thing.<br />
<br />
As a final note, if anyone is in Florida and goes to the HP celebration, ask them. Bring up what you want and what you'd spend your money on. Make it clear that their demos are wrong, or misguided. Or congratulate them on a job well done(?). One can almost be certain, things are changing, and we will find out in the coming months whether or not this gambit has paid off for them in the short term.<br />
<br />
So with that, let's see what they can do with it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
STORIES ON THE KEYNOTE<br />
<a href="http://www.mugglenet.com/2015/12/pottermore-ceo-susan-jurevics-explains-redesign-hints-future-changes/">http://www.mugglenet.com/2015/12/pottermore-ceo-susan-jurevics-explains-redesign-hints-future-changes/</a><br />
<a href="https://sypscotland.wordpress.com/2015/12/06/futurebook15-susan-jurevics-pottermore-after-all-were-in-the-imagination-business/">https://sypscotland.wordpress.com/2015/12/06/futurebook15-susan-jurevics-pottermore-after-all-were-in-the-imagination-business/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-46186170286533454412016-01-14T20:11:00.000-08:002016-01-14T20:11:04.096-08:00Pottermore Breaking, Bracing, or Booming? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://enchantedamerica.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/florida-orlando-harry-potter-world-gringotts-bank-clerk-vault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://enchantedamerica.files.wordpress.com/2014/07/florida-orlando-harry-potter-world-gringotts-bank-clerk-vault.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
So I'm certain many of you have heard this sort of headline already.<br />
<br />
Pottermore has posted a loss. It's been a while, but they've posted a loss. Of nearly five million pounds.<br />
<br />
Now, it's difficult to go over, but luckily, I have a fairly strong business background, and some basic skill in reading balance sheets.<br />
<br />
I will mention, however, and stress that the numbers only tell a part of the story, and there's still plenty of pieces of the puzzle missing.<br />
<br />
As for how I got this information, it's publicly available <a href="https://s3-eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/document-api-images-prod/docs/kLYGQ-ijt3QyIjow63yN4ddY5Xn8Rlb7RbybYeZmL7E/application-pdf?AWSAccessKeyId=ASIAIJG6AD43XBNT72CQ&Expires=1452827864&Signature=BobF164eMcdniGDBJhXMt%2FBN6sU%3D&x-amz-security-token=AQoDYXdzEFIa4APDT%2FgHPQLVRqijf%2FFKufoSmvEDlZNc33tt7fGAMep%2B2H4vHwDjLvYEAIXIKOftQzEy1K78KLP9JrAg%2F7Dhhn9hpRheK9%2FPdd1KkXbXCIF7lsfJDttgfLzjLZkVs48ZEkA%2FtDHfjOLN496tdpauEAch%2Bor%2FFIDub0vNCczdSIB%2BECIo%2Bl7FNwtUJ8Pr0TNl5I4FD8V12B%2FM%2B%2BI0Ff0TOReeLm0O5gH9SgpV7IXSAD6hrzKk6Djl%2B9qkt%2FhG%2FI5Z0dW2tGH%2B%2FSVWx7PsPRB4aD9P5xzu0hnBg4EHs1VnO5WobAXIQnMx6c%2Fsb4daIOurOe9qbtwHsSqAWb1MVgjdhEwshO6QPmDrQmhE2LzLvRyqflQlYEXX9rlTuS7Cp%2FhEDxgitIINUMLoqHx5KovAh%2FZEdv4qH2AF8RZU1NlTSBhl54xx9qTGEbtBgdF%2FC9kFYq2jmDbU9LEAYODgJYOWWqhHDl8%2FX59jEkkKI1K6eOahqbm5%2F2tDN1P5cs%2FMjppc6ddzmwdkKAm3%2Bykjc280mpwveAXXcerfaUhQqjxJTDZw%2BQh3ptTujkLIeq3ee6tSoiepQaRhplm35kQuAGAFAsytVngz8HO4I6SumyaYbFI8pycuJj4KqiIttVJ7TBVk2VUg9f%2FgtAU%3D">here</a>.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
So before we go deeper in to the rabbit hole a brief explanation on balance sheets, corporations, and how businesses work.<br />
<br />
Businesses exist (generally) to make money. They are born from a government and people agreeing that it's okay for the people to work together to get more money by pooling resources. From there, there are three groups of people we think about, Officers, Directors, and Shareholders. Depending on what type of business you are, you may or may not have them. Shareholders generally own a company, while directors and officers run it to varying degrees.<br />
<br />
Directors are elected by shareholders, and make big decisions on what to do. Like massive. If they want to branch into a new market that's probably the directors saying that. They may or may not be paid much, and they vote on what to do, and who to hire as an officer. Officers handle more of the day to day stuff (though even they delegate tasks off to other people).<br />
<br />
From this, we know the following about Pottermore, Circa March, 2015.<br />
<br />
They have one share of stock owned by former CEO Neil Blair. (Neil is also Jo's literary agent. Also, that one share is worth 1 pound.)<br />
<br />
Neil and two other people (who all work for the Blair Partnership) are directors of Pottermore.<br />
<br />
The "ultimate controlling party" is designated as JK Rowling. (I should note that after a brief, and unhelpful web search, it designated an ultimate controlling party as someone that can tell the majority shareholder what to do due to somehow owning them in some fashion, I'd guess this would qualify as she may be able to force Neil to do what she wants, or this is done as part of his duties to her, but I am still fairly uncertain. Just remember: it means she gets last say and can boss them around if she's so inclined.)<br />
<br />
Pottermore pays two companies, one that is owned by Rowling (for which Neil helps with) and another which is the Blair partnership.<br />
<br />
From this, here's the sort of "gist" of Pottermore info. When you purchase shares, that's the amount of money you're personally liable for in the company. So if you spend a dollar on a share, and the company goes belly up. You only lose a dollar. And when the company's creditors come calling? They have to shout to the company, and they can't go after your nice things. (Conversely, if you were a "sole proprietor" and the company went belly up, you could lose everything you have to your name.)<br />
<br />
Now, the way this essentially sets Pottermore up, is every some odd months, Pottermore shills out money to the Blair partnership, and to JKR's company. And theoretically they pay the directors too.<br />
<br />
So bluntly, Pottermore acts sort of like an ATM for Blair, his friends, and Queen Jo. Every some odd months, they get their checks, and they're happy. They don't have to do much with Pottermore to get that, but they have an interest in not bleeding it dry.<br />
<br />
Now, for the financials. To keep it simple, turnover is their sales. So first note is that sales dropped drastically, from about 30 million in 2014 to 7 million in 2015. Making this worse, it cost them 7 million this year (11 million last year) to sell all of those, and about another 6 million in administrative costs. (Fun fact: while pottermore's staff went down by 10 people this year, it actually costed more for employees this year than the last one they posted).<br />
<br />
Now this trickled down and after a very generous tax break, and some interest, they cut their 6 million down to just shy of 5 million. This 5 million loss, is compared to a 11 million profit last year. <br />
<br />
So you must be asking yourself, "Will pottermore die? This is a pretty bad hit to take!" And you are right, this is a pretty rough shove for any company, but it doesn't seem particularly unhealthy. They took a (technical) loss last year decreasing the retained earnings (money left over for paying them) in 2013, and I honestly am not too surprised given they've leveraged most of their risk onto debt, so they borrowed money to put in, instead of putting it in themselves.<br />
<br />
The moral of this story is essentially, Pottermore has managed to fashion itself to be a fairly risk-less money machine for Rowling and her agents. I'm uncertain to the specificity of british corporate or business law, but there are some parts that seem to not *quite* jive with me (like the one shareholder, with three people that work for the place that they rent their offices from) but it's generally interesting.<br />
<br />
As to why Pottermore's sales have gone down, there are a few guesses, though none are hinted at. It could be that the sales of the wonder book stuff with sony had died down, or ceased, or it could be that the sales of ebooks crashed, or that they simply made a lot of poor decisions. Note that this is before the closure, and it will be approximately two and a half months till we see the next filing, so there's not much to show for that.<br />
<br />
However, given what we do know, it is possible that either Pottermore's sony partnership was worth much more than we gave credit for, or that Pottermore's business model was on the whole, unsustainable.<br />
<br />
Sooooo before we delve in, a final fun fact.<br />
<br />
Pottermore, the trademark, is owned by Warner Brothers. Yah. Hard to imagine (no, not really you say). They've owned the trademark since before the site's inception, and there is nothing to signal that they have transferred the trademark to Pottermore Limited (the company).<br />
<br />
With that being said... I'm certain the goblins of gringotts have a word or two in advice for Neil and his directors, and the blame can be shifted to a great many people, though we can't be sure who or what yet, and as bad as it may seem for those that wish to shout "I TOLD YOU SO" about the recent decisions, it's difficult to see the ramifications till the next filing is announced on March 31, 2016.<br />
<br />
If you're interested in hearing the rundown on that one, let me know.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-8975218666031230882016-01-14T19:10:00.001-08:002016-01-14T19:10:08.266-08:00AlwaysWe'll miss you Severus.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-30473424629016589092015-12-19T01:26:00.000-08:002015-12-19T01:26:08.489-08:00Fantastic Beasts and... Where are They? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/XWXUQq7OsKQ/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XWXUQq7OsKQ?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
Sooooo I have a bad feeling about this. <br />
<br />
I want to make this clear, I'm writing this on the heels of Star Wars. I'm writing this after seeing the trailer 10 times, with three days to think about it.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I'm not that excited.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I'm hoping for something wonderful, but I'm not particularly excited. This is a really quiet start to what looks like it *could* be a fun film, and I don't want to bash with JUST this trailer.<br />
<br />
But let's dissect it just a smidge.<br />
<br />
Lumos Maxima.<br />
<br />
Oh with that, it's wonderful seeing a return to form. But... I'm just not sure how important it is other than saying "MORE WIZARDS" and it honestly wouldn't surprise me to see it become the "Star Wars" crawl.<br />
<br />
Though from what we see.... Tina is somehow with Newt, takes a case (his?) to report on his predicament to the Magical Congress (and the madam president)....<br />
Though on that note I want to mention about fashion... it half looks like an ornamental headdress... which seems to be odd for a president, but I'm sure there is some sort of explaination.<br />
<br />
But beyond that there isn't really much of note again till Newt fires his wand off... in public, with what looks like his no-maj buddy/rival Jacob behind him.<br />
<br />
To be honest, I'm excited we're returning to the world but this trailer doesn't get me extra-pumped up to see more of what happens.<br />
<br />
Though that brings me to the one thing I wanted to see the most.<br />
<br />
The beasts.<br />
<br />
No one else seems to be bringing this up, but outside of the scale patterns... there's nothing much. Though if it *is* important, I'd assume it's pushing us towards the big beastie of the film, a sea serpent/basilisk/dragon/unnamed creature of unimaginable size.<br />
<br />
So a lot of news for not much impact.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-16588508297826178312015-12-12T23:14:00.000-08:002015-12-12T23:14:28.846-08:00Wait!No blog post this week *gasp* but lots more the next few weeks!<br />
<br />
We'll be covering the new fantastic Beasts trailer, some Pottermore news from the recent Susan Juverics Keynote, and a bit of speculation on the way.<br />
<br />
In addition, if you're on the forum, check out the third floor corridor game that's going on, and a few other fun developments!<br />
<br />
Till then, this is Runi, rotting in study-land.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-89847242069716105672015-12-04T02:01:00.001-08:002015-12-04T02:01:21.012-08:00Travelling<span id="goog_1957487768"></span><span id="goog_1957487769"></span><br />
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<br />
Sooooo I was on vacation a while back in summer, and the experience was amazing! Like Newt, I went to the wonderful New York City! And, as the holidays are around, and people travel, and do things, I'd like to share my perspective on travel.... using video games!<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I play a <i>lot </i>of video games as well as being a fan of Harry Potter, and during the last few weeks, I've traveled to the east coast and met other users for Pottermore. But as a traveler, I have to say that video games have prepped me SO much for travel, and with this, I'd like to share these tips.<br />
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<a href="http://img13.deviantart.net/0c77/i/2010/223/b/8/99_max_repels_plox_by_voodoodollmaster.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://img13.deviantart.net/0c77/i/2010/223/b/8/99_max_repels_plox_by_voodoodollmaster.png" height="116" width="200" /></a></div>
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1) When traveling to a new area, make sure to stock up on key items. Here, that's cash, toothbrushes, charging cords, anything you may need. Just like you don't want to go into caves without a bit of repel to keep those pesky Zubat away, you don't want to be somewhere in need of a new power cord.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://fireemblemwiki.org/w/images/6/6b/Ss_fe07_inventory.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://fireemblemwiki.org/w/images/6/6b/Ss_fe07_inventory.png" /></a>2) When assembling your party, make sure that the party is prepped and fully equipped. This means everyone has cellphones charged, sunscreen on, and fully stocked up with any funds or maps. It does occasionally help to have one person act as the caravan of the party, carrying a lot of your essential items.<br />
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3) Maps are important. Can't stress how important a map is. Your cellphone's gps is great, but unfortunately, walking with it out tends to make you look like a total tourist. If you want to go well, pull over to a side, sit somewhere, and quickly check out your map. Use that to get your bearings, and if you need "way points" just plug in a headphone and follow that.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qXsFkRcncEA/hqdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/qXsFkRcncEA/hqdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a>4) Keep an eye out for unique looking NPCs. They're usually important, and helpful when you need some guidance. Police are a good example of this, though the best NPCs are usually the ones behind counters. Those are the shop keepers, and like many great RPGs, occasionally they'll tell you a bit of information about the area if you ask. So on that note...<br />
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5) For important NPCs, don't be afraid to ask them questions. The same goes to party members you meet up with. Consulting a NPC or Party member for something you don't know can be useful, and they can always give you items to help you. People know things. Ask them. They might notice something you don't, and it'll help you accomplish your goals. <br />
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6) Keep an eye out for familiar signs to determine useful shops. Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, McDonalds, the hospital's cross or bright letters telling you that they sell what you need! When you walk around, keep a mental note of where those things are. Starbucks can be used as a wifi and charging location, same with McDonalds. Even better for both is you can get food (albiet not that servicable) while you charge up your key items.<br />
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7) Always keep a "key items" pocket, and make sure you can call up your key items quickly. Basically, for anything you want to use often, that has multiple uses... like a cell phone, make sure it's readily accessible. So press y and bring out that cell!<br />
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8) On the note of key items, it does well to mention. Customize and upgrade. I don't mean to say "go first class" or "get the large!" I mean when you travel, always consider getting upgrades for your key items. That cellphone can only last so long when you're on the move, so why not get an external battery pack, or a battery back case? Usually use an electric toothbrush? Why not go for a regular one you got from the dentist so you don't have to charge it?<br />
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Even regarding the items you have to carry around your inventory this is an important notion. I actually have a pair of Cargo pants and jackets JUST for this purpose in traveling or things where I'll be out and about for a while. While it's a pain for metal detectors and scanners, having that many pockets on me is an enormous relief as it means I have just a few more slots available in my "regular" inventory (aka the carry on luggage). Even there I'd suggest having a few different sizes available if you can, or at the very least, something that pushes against the limits of a carry on bag, that can hold a fair amount.<br />
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9) Leave a few item slots empty before going on a raid. Yes, trips aren't necessarily raids. But the idea holds true. Since we aren't able to fit bikes in our pockets, we have to make due with what we have, and I'd reccomend leaving yourself a bit of room in luggage when packing to bring back anything from your trip.<br />
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However, I'd be remiss to note that there are occasions where, depending on where you're staying, you can have your purchases shipped to your home! Isn't technology amazing?<br />
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10) Save before embarking on your expedition! As wierd as this may be to say, it does well to note what you packed, and where it is before leaving. Make sure all of that stuff is safe and secure, and do it often. Just like in a game you don't want to lose your progress (or that incredible item by accident), keep "saving" by making sure items are either in your bag, or somewhere else highly visible, even setting a checklist to remind yourself on what you packed.<br />
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11) Enjoy the journey. Yes, I get that you want that badge/experience for your badgecase/photo album, but the trip isn't that fun unless you... enjoy it. Be spontaneous, explore your location and enjoy those quiet places if you can find them. People watch for a bit, and enjoy those smaller experiences. Whether it's walking around Time Square, catching a Boston Bruins game, or sitting by the beach eating ice cream. It's those moments that really determine if you enjoy a trip, and what really makes them memorable.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The world ends with you. So expand your horizons and step forward!</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-617472628810419422015-11-29T13:47:00.001-08:002015-11-29T13:47:25.677-08:00Bonus! Poll updates!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So this closed a while ago but.... Man we're not a happy bunch are we? 24 votes for angry, and the next runner up is let's wait.<br />
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Let's hope they give something that's going to make me post a slightly more cheerful bit of news for them later. But till then, what's your favorite Potter immersion site? HEX? Old PM? Neo-PM? Something else? Or maybe nothing, and you're just frustrated with it all? This poll closes on the new year, so vote away!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-18510385218870271432015-11-29T13:33:00.004-08:002015-11-29T13:34:48.134-08:00Still Waiting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /></div>
.... So, here's a question.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
Why Didn't Neo-Pottermore open with the new interactive functions they're promising from the get-go?<br />
<a name='more'></a>Really, I guess it comes down to planning and deadlines. If we look at the recent news blitz towards Fantastic Beasts and Cursed Child, there certainly hasn't been a lack of potter in the news. Logo comes out, tidbits of info leak out. The problem is it's been roughly two months, and... nothing of particular interest comes out. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
So we're told there's a dog on set. There's stuff on hair styles and how they're developing the look. All that is fun and good but it usually is the thing that people read AFTER the movie comes out. I get why Pottermore thought they could get away with a few months extra waiting for any additional promised features to get online. There's still content for them to churn out easy. They can talk and chat about the latest things, and hope that it keeps attention. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
But looking at their page more and more, I find it's kinda starting to happen. People are fidgity. More people are noticing the change from September as we move towards holidays. People are free and they're checking in to see the old home's not there. So the rage is lasting a bit longer than I honestly ever thought it would. I mean, certainly, there are those that have just fled to <a href="http://pmpotionchamber.blogspot.com/2015/10/is-it-better-looking-at-hex-hogwarts.html">HEX</a>, and it's quite clever to do so. It is a great site with much to do. But the official site's become a bit of a joke. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Fans are pointing out the occasional bits of stupidity a bit more, and a bit sharper, and it's been harder to find those positive to neutral comments that are on their site. Maybe at the time I'm writing this, it's a<a href="http://pmpotionchamber.blogspot.com/2015/08/pottermore-lulls.html"> Pottermore Lull.</a> It has, after all, been 2 months and a week since that change to the new, and in that time, Rowling still seems to be releasing more information via twitter than her infamous gift to the fans. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Making Pottermore even less relevant are the recent changes, not to the site but to iTunes and audible. Pottermore is selling it's wares ELSEWHERE. So the license is being sent out and shared. </div>
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Pottermore needs this update soon. There's fewer and fewer reasons to go to the website, and that likely won't increase with time. So if not for our sake, then for it's own... Pottermore is going to need to finish this switch to the new and make it worth it, or end up a shell, pimping its wares to different shops, and removing every reason for it's own existence. Because if Rowling shares info on twitter, and if you can buy your e-Potter elsewhere, the only reason to go to Pottermore would be the community, which they exiled, and removed.<br />
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A bit angry, but leave your thoughts below. Where do you think Pottermore's heading with all these changes, and just how many times will they drop the hammer on their foot before they learn? </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-88746723363076107732015-11-22T22:16:00.004-08:002015-11-23T12:48:04.671-08:00What Makes a Fandom? <br />
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Recently, I've been thinking of what makes a fandom a fandom. Just last week, a story broke about a girl being harassed by fans of Steven Universe, and things have gone to pot afterwards, with people proclaiming that show as having "the worst fandom." (Out of respect for you dear readers, I link the story <a href="http://www.dailydot.com/geek/steven-universe-fanartist-bullied-controversy/">here</a>, and I will be referencing it, but it is not a story for the weak of heart. Tread carefully.)<br />
<a name='more'></a> Fandoms are generally defined as simply people who are together, being fans of one thing and is seen as a community. Yet, I do think that a fandom that pushes a young lady to attempt suicide is something that ultimately should not stand. Especially one a fandom that embraces so much diversity as Steven Universe.<br />
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So what is a fandom? If we just say that it's a thing that many people are fans of that brings them together, that's one thing but could we really say that people like this are part of a fandom?<br />
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But I have to say this, as much as a personal thing as it is just an observation. Fandoms can suck when you're in them and you end up getting pinned by people as the bad guy. The wonderful thing about fandoms is how they bring people together, but they can also lend themselves to losing yourself in the crowd. It's easy to look at things, and feel like you belong so much that just, whatever isn't there, has to go.<br />
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Looking ast what happened to that SU fan, I have to say that, the rabid unity is something that should be looked at with a bit of concern. I know that people are blaming the "Social Justice Warrior" crowd for what happened, for harassing that young lady to the point where she made an attempt on her life. But let's face it, that's part of the internet. People will always disagree to the limits of their sensibilities, and this is just a part of a fandom which strictly adhered to a certain view. No different from a Potter fan shaming another for fan fiction that ruins or goes against their favorite ship.<br />
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We're a fandom, but part of the magic is making people feel included. Attacking people in your own fandom is just against that on so many reasons. Yes, there are bound to be disagreements over which character is best. How their representation was handled. Fanfiction and film. Everyone's bound to have their own opinion on the thing that makes you, and them happy. So fandom should never be used to bash your fellow fans, for not interpreting things the same way as you. They are wonderful things, and in truth, the fandom as it exists, even if it is not your part of the fandom, it should only serve to expand horizons. The view may not be pleasant, but it's there.<br />
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So what is a fandom-more accurately-what should a fandom be? Fandoms should be unifying points. We shouldn't all fight over the things we love. Yes, we love them in different ways. There's bound to be the Potter fan that hates the films that loves the books.<br />
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There are others that may only care for the films. In all things, Fandoms will always have their divisions and disagreements, but ultimately, they should always draw us closer together, and give a bright eyed response, to every tatoo of the Deathly Hallows, to every utterance of "bigger on the inside," and every time someone sees a t-shirt from any show. It's a secret handshake, and one we should treasure.<br />
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On a personal note, I'll end with this. I nearly left the fandom for Potter/Pottermore. For a lot of reasons, but to be honest, a fair amount of them made me think of this girl. It sucks to be on the recieving end of that sort of abuse for so long, especially when you were only doing what you loved. Not everyone's right, and not everyone's wrong, but to abuse the dreamers is terrible, becuase those fans are potentially the next creators, leaders, writers, and should be allowed to grow through kindness, rather than curtailed with cruelty.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-70871128083939240922015-11-14T18:57:00.003-08:002015-11-14T18:57:42.244-08:00Soooooo About This Week's Post. So, here's the thing.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I'm not sure if this is my place to put out there, but for this week's post, it was going to be about the dark side of fandoms, and why the things that bring us together can occasionally tear us apart.<br />
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But the thing is, I don't think, given recent events, that should be the focus.<br />
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Thing is, we have a lot of things that separate us, but this... well, it shouldn't be something to focus on. Not now.<br />
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There's always going to be bad people. There will always be rotten people, and those who misguidedly attempt to follow a path, blinded by hate and trying to dominate with fear.<br />
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But, I guess the point is every now and then, people that are just as good, as the others are rotten, will pop up. Something will show up and push us to expand our horizons as we embrace our lives and chase our happiness. Even if it's fleeting.<br />
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So to paraphrase film Dumbledore... <i>Hope</i> can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.<br />
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Look for the things that make you happy, and embrace them.<br />
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With that, I'll be posting the planned post for this week as well as a different post next week.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-72200953911803452842015-11-08T12:37:00.000-08:002015-11-08T12:37:55.520-08:00About Fantastic Beasts: Everything we Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So... Fantastic Beasts. This is going to be interesting.<br />
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So let's list what we know<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<ul>
<li>Setting is 1920s NEW YORK CITY</li>
</ul>
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New York City, 1920s. This is a massively great setting, and does open us to a lot of new possibilities. For one, American wizarding culture is bound to be different in quite a few ways. Their Magical Congress of the United States (MACUS) is in the Woolworth Building, a building shared by *surprise* Muggles. </div>
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<br /></div>
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So essentially, expect a lot of Diagon Alley areas and underground bases I'd guess. Much of the city would have unplottable pockets or areas with special access only, like the Ministry through the toilets, or platform 9 3/4 in the subways. (I wouldn't be surprised if there was even an entire "hidden borough, but given other information, I'm guessing this is going to be very, VERY unlikely.)</div>
<ul>
<li>No-Maj is the american term for muggle</li>
</ul>
<div>
... And almost everyone seems upset about it or believes it's unpleasant. So here's the thing. 1920s slang includes words like "flappers," "gams," "birds," "tomato," and "real McCoy." Among those, No-Maj does stand out in a bit of a sore way. There are a few ways we can go about explaining this (and now I'm justifying the existance of no-maj... wonderful). </div>
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<br /></div>
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1) No-Maj is the Politically correct version of "muggle" "Maj" would then refer to a wizard/witch in a sort of neutral term, and "no-maj" would refer to someone who was simply, not a maj. This and it's 1920s in the US. Given we know wizard bigotry is a thing, especially due to witchhunts promoting the whole idea, there are probably nastier terms for muggles that are far more popular the Jo is not subjecting us to yet. </div>
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<br /></div>
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2) No-Maj is simply older slang. There, now are you happy it doesn't sound as good when you think about it being said by a 1920s radio announcer? </div>
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<br /></div>
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3) We just aren't used to "American" words in our potter outside of sorcerer. </div>
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4) No Majes. This is probably the one reason this doesn't seem right to people. But I don't quite think this would be the plural. I mean, goodness I'm an american and it sounds soooo wrong (like gams) but maybe it's said differently in the plural, or used differently. Like "Look at all the no-maj" rather than "look at all the no-majes."</div>
<ul>
<li>Newt's briefcase is bigger on the inside</li>
</ul>
<div>
No, he's not a timelord that travels through the universe in a briefcase. He uses it to store creatures and habitats for study on the go. So essentially Newt's briefcase is a rather fancy pokeball, or a more extensive version of Hermione's Purse/Moody's trunk. We do know that the use of those bigger on the inside spells is regulated by the Ministry, so this is a guess that the Ministry provided the briefcase, or at least sanctioned it as part of Newt's studies. So... this leads to something I'm going to ask later here... </div>
<ul>
<ul>
<li>But before that, it looks like it breaks setting off a bunch of madness</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
So now we know why Newt likely stayed longer than he intended. We know something goes wrong with his suitcase. So yah, his suitcase breaks, and every creature he has goes with it. So with a muggle-filled city, and magical creatures from all over, no idea how much havoc will occur. Oddly enough we'll probably start off with a few harmless creatures and a few harmful ones.</div>
<ul>
<ul>
<li>Best guess on the creatures inside? </li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
Since we know that the S symbol in Fantastic Beasts is symbolic of one of the creatures featured, so we can guess it's either: a) a dragon; b) a basilisk or; c) an unknown creature. If I had to guess, I'll say it's a basilisk that Newt was trying to breed for study and kept in his case. This would certainly add a familiar "big bad" to the series and a solid link to the Potter series, but there's also the chance that it is a rather different creature all together. There aren't many solid links to what a serpentine creature could be in that logo, especially if we were to account for size. It could be an ashwinder (so small you'd have to wonder why it's in the logo), a stylized dragon (no legs or wings to be seen though.... ), a basilisk (it certainly does have a crest... and looks similar to one), a sea serpent (not too likely unless we spend a considerable amount of time in the sewers... which we might), or something new entirely that is being made for the movie... in which case we'll need a better copy of Fantastic Beasts at some point. Aside from that, I will assume Nifflers will be featured, because of course they will, they're cute fuzzballs that can cause damage, as well as the Demiguise or Golden Snidget (because let's face it, if you were a magizooligist, observing an endangered species or trying to promote breeding or better understanding might be on your priority list. </div>
<ul>
<li>there's calls for a second salem</li>
</ul>
The "Salemers" are the people, the no-maj, that seem to be very anti-witch/wizard. So, let's take a few things into consideration for a second. There's an international statute of secrecy. So HOW do these people know about magic? Unless they don't.<br />
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<br /></div>
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My proposal, this is related to the morality movements that have been going through the US since the 1800s and leading up to prohibition. These are likely mothers and such that want to stop the corrupting influence of "black magic" on the youth with their short skirts and hard liquor. This has happened pretty often, and it wouldn't be too surprising if these muggles were to be unhappy about it for whatever reason, perhaps due to the activities of a magical creature that are prompting some tension.<br />
<ul><ul>
<li>and an obvious twist</li>
</ul>
</ul>
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The head of the "Salemers" has a son that doesn't quite fit in. >.> So he's a wizard. Wouldn't even be surprised if this explains how the Salemers start. Perhaps her poor son just doesn't know how to control the magic and it instead happened randomly through his youth. This is all assuming that wizards and witches in the US don't inform people that don't have wizarding relatives. Thus, the muggle-born are likely passed over and ignored like squibs, and this explains why her son (older than 10) may not be a ready ally for Newt, or even known about. </div>
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<li>The wizard US gov't seems to mimic the muggle one.</li>
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There's a Magical Congress of the United States and a Wizard/Witch president. Presumably there's also a Supreme Wizmagot but who knows. :P It is kind of interesting to see how the mimicry happens there. <br />
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The character Jacob is a Muggle... it's unknown exactly how he gets into this whole mess, but it is interesting that he's getting involved. Odds are he's an occult-enthusiast and perhaps opposed to the second salemers because of either a wizard relative somewhere in his family, or perhaps he's the first "victim" of one of Newt's creatures and offers to help.<br />
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<li>One of our main characters is a legilemens</li>
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One of the sisters is a legilemens. So I'd have to guess, she's a fortune teller using a... slightly less fair version of cold reading and making her living off of muggles. I wouldn't be surprised if her other sister (the one working in the MACUS) stood up for her resulting in her demotion. </div>
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<li>We still don't know exactly why Newt Came to NYC?</li>
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So, why did he come? </div>
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1) He's there to collect and capture a creature. Perhaps one that was causing some difficulty with the Second Salemers. </div>
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2) To talk on a diplomatic mission to the MACUS. Though it seems kinda wierd seeing him to take care of business with diplomacy. </div>
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3) To study the creatures of the US and asking for permission first. This one makes a bit more sense, and means that Newt will spend the ENTIRE trillogy in the US, traveling across the country (and hopefully finishing in California-Helloooooo new themepark idea).</div>
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So, what are your theories as to Fantastic Beasts? Post and share below!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-53776345331501892532015-10-23T17:34:00.001-07:002015-10-23T17:34:41.726-07:00Thoughts on the Cursed Child. Before I continue, I find it is almost necessary to post this.<br />
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Oh Miyamoto-san. You are missed. Anyways... the cursed child. </div>
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<a name='more'></a>We've thrown spitballs at the Cursed Child already, wondering what on earth it is, but now we have more information. The play will be split into two parts. So really four parts if there's an intermission in each part. It will be shown alternating days but back to back on the weekend.<br />
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Apparently it's a big story too. So I'm just going to come out and say it. </div>
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There's going to be a lot of wibbly-wobbly timey-wimey things. </div>
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But before I get too excited, (and let's face it, there's little on Pottermore to be excited about, might as well think of a play in London few fans will be able to see) Let's review what we know. </div>
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From what we know from the <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3285564/BAZ-BAMIGBOYE-Harry-Potter-magic-10-West-End-tickets.html">Daily Mail's Spazzy Baz</a> and his estatic tweets, </div>
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1) It takes place 19 years after Deathly Hallows. </div>
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2) The cursed child seems to be <a href="http://pmpotionchamber.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-cursed-child.html">Albus Severus (called it!)</a></div>
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3) It will focus in some part, on the burden of the family name on ASP. </div>
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4) Again, it's in two parts. So massive story there. </div>
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5) The poster has a boy, likely ASP, in what looks like a twiggy snitch. </div>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" lang="en">
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Brilliant artwork by <a href="https://twitter.com/akaAgency">@akaAgency</a> & Simon Williams for <a href="https://twitter.com/HPPlayLDN">@HPPlayLDN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheCursedChild?src=hash">#TheCursedChild</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling">@jk_rowling</a> 'loves' it.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Albus?src=hash">#Albus</a> <a href="https://t.co/t3WYhn1H2n">pic.twitter.com/t3WYhn1H2n</a></div>
— Baz Bamigboye (@BazBam) <a href="https://twitter.com/BazBam/status/657495057570861056">October 23, 2015</a></blockquote>
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Tag line on <a href="https://twitter.com/HPPlayLDN">@HPPlayLDN</a> artwork is 'The Eighth Story.Nineteen Years Later'.Gives hint about <a href="https://twitter.com/jk_rowling">@jk_rowling</a> W.End play. <a href="https://t.co/XdTMae0ePo">pic.twitter.com/XdTMae0ePo</a></div>
— Baz Bamigboye (@BazBam) <a href="https://twitter.com/BazBam/status/657322692719288320">October 22, 2015</a></blockquote>
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With that out of the way, now to theorizing. </div>
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Thinking about Cursed Child (CC) I have to guess the theme of the story will shift to one of fatherhood and parenting. Something I actually think Harry will likely suck at. Yes, at the time we see Harry with his children, whisking them off to Hogwarts, he is 38. So to think about it he and Ginny likely had James when harry was 23, ginny was 22. Albus Severus was born when they were 27, and Lily Luna when they were closer to 30. </div>
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They are exceptionally young parents, and both busy in their own right. Harry is a world-famous auror. Ginny a quidditch captain turned reporter. I can't be the only one asking "who raised their kids?" (Probably Molly and Arthur to some extent, but I digress) With Harry getting older, and likely actually settling down with his children more, and ASP being thrust into the wizarding world to a greater extent, I wouldn't find it surprising that he may find the whole deal of being Harry's son overwhelming. Unlike Harry, he would fully appreciate what his father did. He would know exactly what being the son of Voldemort's foe would mean. And the names, of two headmasters would weigh heavily on him. So, I will assume the following.</div>
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Albus Severus will be sorted into Slytherin, or perhaps Ravenclaw (if we are going by the poster) and will prove himself rather gifted as a seeker. People will continue comparing him to his father, at which point we see the effect Harry has had on his son, and Harry's shortcomings as a father. I'm fairly certain Harry will have tried to be a good father, but his influences are fairly scant. Or dead. Next, I will go on a limb, and say that if he is sorted into Slytherin, it will be a wakeup call for him. I am fairly certain, that doing so will expose him to the children and grandchildren of death eaters and voldemort's sympathizers, to really hammer in that legacy of Harry's. Albus will find very little friends at school as a result, and I will assume that towards the end of the first half, he will be attacked by a dark wizard Harry is chasing, and by the end something will be done to mend him. </div>
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Interspersed with all of this, I would also say that it would be likely that we see flashbacks to Lily and James, contrasting Harry and his son, and maybe to Harry closer to his marriage to Ginny and the initial birth of his children. So, wibbly-wobbly-timy-wimy stuff will occur. </div>
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And because I almost feel like I have to, yes, it sucks that London will be the only place to see the play for now. Though I think we all know that it will be published as a book, and if not, we'll be treated to recordings of the play like the Shrek musical.... Hopefully. Maybe. (ROWLING SO HELP ME). </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-18741255775031798702015-10-18T12:04:00.001-07:002015-10-18T12:04:41.372-07:00Update on the Neo-PM PollSo, I've been talking with folks and I wanted to say... I'm pretty sure Neo PM is NOT being taken nicely. I mean, so far the poll numbers are fairly split between angry and wait and see, but given the site's been replaced for a little less than a month, who knows. Soon enough, the anniversary of the change will hit, and we'll see what may occur.<br />
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There are always patronuses..... if we can muster up happy thoughts after all.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-11000431022325063702015-10-17T09:49:00.000-07:002015-10-17T09:49:27.969-07:00Is it Better? Looking at HEX (Hogwarts Extreme)I think the general consensus now is that Pottermore has abandoned it's core user base, and well, now we all have to find other things to do. So with that being said, let's look at one of the more popular alternates to Pottermore: Hogwarts Extreme aka (HEX).<br />
<a name='more'></a>Before I go into nuts and bolts a bit of full disclosure. I've had an account on HEX since January, but honestly forgot about it till a few days ago.<br />
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That being said, I kind of mourn not spending more time there already.<br />
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HEX is a role playing site, and for the Pottermore refugee, it has classes, some minor games, and most impressively, an economics system (I will refrain on gushing on the last one, as that is warranting of it's own post).<br />
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Now, the classes admittedly are dull. They take me just a few seconds, and I do it as it is perhaps the easiest way to earn points. It's actually one of a few ways, you can take classes or do contests. But the downside is, the later in the school year you arrive, the lower your returns will be from the classes. I guess this is nice for a few reasons, but to be honest there's a very limited reason to do those classes. They cost money (supplies start up) and unless you want to help your house win the cup (go snakes!) then you're probably better off with contests. In this regard it's both better and worse than pottermore, as quick find functions can easily give you a perfect score on homework. However, it's not that complex, and it's not really a game in the same way as pottermore in earning points. Which makes sense, hogwarts is a school after all.<br />
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But what about the actual games? They're fun enough, and I appreciate the effort. It is, much, much better than anything Pottermore had put out. In all honesty, Pottermore should have tried poaching the people behind HEX. Given the resources I'm guessing this team had, it's a fantastic product. The games aren't complex at all though, and there's little to no strategy required. So from that point onwards, comes the real hidden gem of HEX, the ECONOMY. Users can buy and sell goods from eachother. The shops have limited supplies, there are rare items, there is SCARCITY. SCARCITYYYYYY!* There are so many intricacies to how the economy works, and how much it reminds me, in truth, of Animal Crossing at times. It's actually pretty wonderful.<br />
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So is this what Pottermore should have been? Not quite. I certainly think this site delivers the spirit of Pottermore more than the original, but there are aspects that are still sorely missed (Oh potions! How I miss you!). This is still a wonderful stopgap though. Eventually, or rather hopefully, Pottermore will realize that there is a bit of profit to be made catering to fans that aren't pre pubecent girls, but till then there is HEX. And it is quite the impressive example of what a userbase can do when they are determined to.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-80536670291450125972015-10-11T15:23:00.003-07:002015-10-11T15:23:55.187-07:00Books! Now with Added Features*Huh, time to write again. What to write about... what to write about....<br />
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Ooooh Yes! </div>
<a name='more'></a>So in case you haven't been paying attention to Pottermore... because well, who is now? They had a recent addition! A partnership between themselves and Apple, putting some of the old experiences in the ebooks. So all that art, and the movement, and apparently blurbs by Rowling all in one convenient to buy package of $9.99 USD per book!<br />
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Let that sink in. </div>
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We had the $39.99 new illustrated Philosopher/Sorceror's Stone released. Twilight is coming out again with an additional bonus story, the same thing but gender-swapped! (Actually, let me say this, debatably what Twilight is doing is a BETTER value than what Rowling and Pottermore are. I never thought I'd say this but, well done Stephanie Myer.) Is it just me or does the new young lit scene seem to be "how do we repackage this, have them buy it, and make it JUST different enough that the hardcore fans will get it without grumbling too much." Or the shorter version "SHUT UP AND GIVE ME YOUR MONEY" the marketing plan. </div>
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Now, I can't say this is revolutionary, not really. But I think it's the first time to my memory that popular books have done this in such a short time frame. I mean certainly, the Hobbit has a graphic novel edition, and so does Artimis Fowl. And this is done in DVDs all the time. And video games. But I think it's just odd, that the new thing for books is "re-release with bonus content." I can't fault Pottermore for this. Not completely though. </div>
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That being said, I do think that this was yet another poorly thought out idea. A few fans have brought this up on Pottermore's Facebook page, but the short version is "This was available, and easily accessible for free. We can no longer easily access some of this. The images are scattered and harder to locate and pin point, and all that's being done is a repackaging of all this stuff that you already gave out for free." From a business perspective, it's perfectly sane. Use existing assets that currently do not make money to make more money. From a public relations perspective, it's just more bad news for Pottermore.</div>
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I can only say that this only makes me slightly more depressed on reading their slow descent. But hey, I'd give anything to see their financials at this point. </div>
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*added features for additional purchase and price. Limited supply. Not really. Give us your money. Sincerely, Pottermore. </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-17459153589165396362015-09-30T23:06:00.006-07:002015-09-30T23:10:38.692-07:00A Summary: What's Coming, What's Gone On Pottermore. Seeing as Pottermore is gone as we know it, I'm going to list off what features have remained, in sort of an FAQ. Yes there is already one on Pottermore, but I think I've already established that the people running that site are idiots. Perhaps well intentioned, but idiots.<br />
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First with the big ones:<br />
<b>"What happened to our accounts, will I get my house and wand back?"</b><br />
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Pottermore has said on Facebook that they are saving our account data. So, as far as we know right now, log in abilities will return later (they said they were working on it) and it is confirmed that sorting and wand selection will return as well. However, I'm not certain if we are keeping our old sorting, or if the quiz has been adjusted by Rowling (both would actually give reason for why they were removed in the first place, as well as you know. No more sign-in. Ideally, The sorting would then have a few alternates, so people may find out what "houses" they are for the american school. If we are even going to cover the american school.)<br />
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<b>"So where's dueling and brewing"</b><br />
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They're dead. Like Dumbledore* (Spoilers).<br />
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<b>"Where's the artwork that used to be on Pottermore, where can I find it?"</b><br />
<br />
Look around. The artwork is on various pages with some rhyme/reason, if you want to look up art of something, just keep randomly typing it in the search to try and pull it up.<br />
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<b>"Why can't I log into my account?"</b><br />
<br />
No login ability now<br />
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<b>"How do you print out my certificate" </b><br />
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You cannot, but a few people have posted templates so you can fashion your own.<br />
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<b>"Why did Pottermore do this anyways?"</b><br />
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I don't know, but I have theories.... GAME THEORIES... thanks for reading. Wait, wrong thing.<br />
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<b>"Is there anything fun on Pottermore?" </b><br />
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The readings? There's some decent info that gets posted, but even the reveal of the Cursed Child being in two parts was botched, as we needed twitter to clarify it. Pottermore correspondant is bad at his/her job.<br />
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<b>"What about patronuses? There's a quiz for that coming yes?"</b><br />
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In a few months. Till then, eat chocolate.<br />
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<b>"What is HEX?" </b><br />
HEX is Hogwarts Extreme, its a sort of site to role play and have mini competitions where a lot of it is homework based. Soooo<br />
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Is there anything I've missed? </div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-64698352460353135332015-09-30T22:10:00.000-07:002015-10-01T03:18:29.731-07:00Oof. New Pottermore Part 3: The Ugly. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So.... it's finally time huh? Well the kiddie gloves are off.<br />
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The absolute worst thing about this whole change is how far in denial Pottermore is. I honestly think the new changes would be tolerable. I've always thought they would be tolerable. There was a lot of negatives about it, but I thought that people would warm up to it all in time, and that if Pottermore played it's cards right, it would be accepted. Kept thinking "Gee, people will be calm about this in a week or two. People'll get tired of being angry and LEAVE within a few days if they still aren't happy."<br />
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But <i>oh </i>you readers, you have proven me wrong here. I am <i>so </i>wrong and I couldn't be happier. Not to say that I thought everyone would just go back to normal, but because it means everyone still cares deeply enough to be angry. I thought that people as a whole would sort of fall for the usual trick. Pottermore would ignore us saying it's nothing to care about. We would stop caring, get bored, leave them alone and they'd rebuild, and when the accounts came back it'd be to bigger fanfare than before.<br />
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But <i>oh</i> how they royally screwed the pooch. By not including accounts, it REALLY sparked people's concerns. Users, I think they had an inkling, but no clue it'd be that limited. Sorting was out. Wands were out. The ability to log in, gone. Everything that they could have cared about outside of the writing, gone. But the worst part of it is perhaps shown in<a href="https://www.pottermore.com/news/fans-react-to-new-pottermore" target="_blank"> this section</a> by Pottermore.<br />
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The correspondant responds to our comments and reactions.<br />
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This was a very poorly thought out plan. Not only is Pottermore sort of losing credibility with fans (at least on FaceBook, where almost every other post is "GIVE US BACK THE OLD SITE YOU GITS") by not responding to concerns and criticism, but rather the neutral or positive responses, but they actually decided to mock the criticism. If you notice, very carefully, there is one post that really hit negative on Pottermore. It was the <i>one</i> post where the person looked the most like a crazy person (Not counting the mouth foamy person).<br />
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To readers that might not get this, here's an example: CAPSLOCK IS THE INTERNET EQUIVALENT OF SHOUTING. IF YOU ARE ALWAYS SHOUTING, IT EITHER MAKES YOU A JERK, CONSTANTLY ANGRY, OR AN IDIOT. Keeping this in mind, I would say it was basically done, in part, to mock those who detracted from the site. It was subtle. OH how it was subtle. I'm pretty sure many of you may not have even realized that's what was done, and that's exactly why I think it was so insidious and so "ugly." Because to any average person you probably took the correspondant's side, at least a little. She gave a cheeky response to the boobish comment. And unfortunately, that's sort of how Pottermore seems to be taking it's criticism as a whole.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lewis Black, the man that quite literally is the voice of Anger. </td></tr>
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It's not unreasonable for Pottermore. To them, we lack <i>reason. </i> The ones that are upset don't matter. We can make fun of them. Let's laugh at the angry people butt-hurt that we took their toy away!<br />
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It's the ugly truth of Pottermore. That Pottermore simply doesn't give a damn about the complaints. Not really. And perhaps I have that knowledge to thank for my buddah-like zen when facing this <br />
change (not withstanding the current Lewis Black-esque performance here). Because goodness knows, they think you're all mouth breathing, rage spewing rubes! RUBES!<br />
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But hey, I could be wrong. Pottermore could be taking us seriously. Just as seriously as you might be taking me here. Or not. But the point remains.<br />
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That response to comments by the Pottermore Correspondant is by far the personification of everything that is wrong with this change.<br />
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Oh, and if you still think I'm a little unhinged...<br />
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This is Capslock+critique.<br />
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This is Capslock without Critique. </div>
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From here, I invite you all to come to your own conclusion. </div>
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Has the Bad and Ugly outweighted the good? Are you giving Pottermore any chance here? Have you jumped on to HEX or Hogwarts is Here? Do you think the fandom has behaved like a band of raving psychopaths fresh off of the latest Mad Max? </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-47471130778318521342015-09-27T19:47:00.001-07:002015-09-27T19:47:40.425-07:00Oof. New Pottermore Part 2: The Bad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok... so we're on to the bad. Well, this ain't gonna be good. Let's delve in to the easy part.<br />
<a name='more'></a>Just the removal of all that was old. And the navigation system. And the obvious movie shilling. And the bit about Lavender. And the design.<br />
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Ok Ok, maybe I'm going a bit too fast here. Well... This is the equivalent of Pottermore attempting, sincerely, suicide, in the hopes that whatever comes out of the ashes will be far better and more beautiful than could be imagined. I mean, it seems that the symbol of New Pottermore is a Phoenix after all. So, how did Fawkes look when he came out of his ashes?<br />
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Ooooh.... yah..... He was butt-ugly. So with that, part of me feels it's unfair to harp on the bad here, buuuut I'm here to entertain as well as inform, and I'm a grumpy soul and won't be holding back my punches. That being said, I do hope that for this entry, you realize I'm trying to be a bit more funny, rather than truely call out the worst parts of this change. That comes later. </div>
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So, first, we have the big change. Dueling, Potions, collecting, friends, log in, sorting, wand picking, all gone. Now, logging in, sorting, and the wand selection are bound to return, but the rest we aren't sure. If pottermore is intelligent, I wouldn't be surprised to have a good part of it return in one way or another, but I have rarely accused Pottermore of intelligence. Part of what makes this fairly insulting is the way that accounts and sorting have been handled. Pottermore should have held off till this was done, and well, it will come in the coming months, but that's already good will lost. I'm sure a lot of us will still be Potterheads, but you know there's at least a handful that have been ruined by this. </div>
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Now we have the navigation and... it's bad. The main search works by just typing in two letters and getting a list, and there are a few other breakdowns. Now the thing that could help Pottermore is indexing. Something wikis have down already. So let's say you type in xenophilius lovegood. Nothing will pop up. Go ahead and try it now. Try typing in his full name. Nothing happens. Try for griphook. Nada. Now I'm sure these characters are mentioned elsewhere... and that's sort of what gets me. The character is elsewhere. Tag your things. We should be able to go through family trees and contacts and enemies. </div>
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Now this wouldn't be as bad if they were not somewhat unclear about canon, which they say they are all about. this brings me to the notorious case of Lavender Brown. She is both alive and dead, or rather pottermore presumes her dead, while the book leaves it open for life, and the movie shows her dead. This leads to the great question: is she alive and how? But this sort of goes to the downside of Pottermore content being written by people that are not Rowling. They now go through the books and the films to create a sort of hierarchal canon. And may we remark at how bizarre THIS is to have a canonical conflict about. There is so much more that could put canon at risk. But hey, old wounds. Though I suppose, if there's anything to be appreciated here, it's how this is possibly the first information put on pottermore that creates a bit of a debate, instead of just flat out answering the question. </div>
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And this leads to the last problem. Shilling the films. To be honest, this is less my thing, but one I noticed people are upset about. So, this is being put out because of how relatively poorly this worked compared to the original purpose, and the incongruency it has caused. Basically, everything the films touch, turns to money. Films are good. The themeparks are great. The books, while we love them, don't necessarily have the same track record. </div>
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Ok, OK! Let me explain. The Books are amazing, and the source of the magic, but the films are a more accessible point of reference to the casual fan. And that's not good for the hardcore fan. Yes, this will result in a product that most will be ok with, and really, Pottermore orienting itself to the average fan is probably their best decision. There's a lot more goodwill towards the films than towards Pottermore, and I think it shows. What probably makes it worse for Pottermore, is that the fandom is perhaps the most skeptical and hard to tame group than any other. We saw the fall of The Ministry, and saw how people fail. We see the similarities, whether it is deserved or not, and what is worse, we question the people feeding us. Harry taught us to question authority, and to see the problems with our idols and leaders. So perhaps Pottermore always would have a problem with shilling, and why it is something that has played fairly poorly. To the diehard fans that like their own headcanons it's frustrating. To the observant frustrated user, it is blatantly transparent to the point of being insulting.<br />
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Sooo you going to put away the torches and pitchforks? Or maybe, hold on... because next up we have the Ugly, aka, what really pushed my own buttons, and what I think deserves the real anger.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-88806917301485141012015-09-25T16:49:00.003-07:002015-09-25T16:49:29.516-07:00Oof. New Pottermore: Part 1 "The Good" <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is going to take a bit... and a lot of news has broken. So first, a review of New Pottermore. I'm going to try and break this up into parts, because in all honesty, just one, two posts won't do it justice.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>So first one's the hardest. What is GOOD about Pottermore's update? Well, debatably the best feature hasn't arrived yet, as we will be getting the Patronus test "in the coming months" so that is something to look forward to, that will likely make people feel a little better about Pottermore's recent changes. The additional concept art is also rather nice, though I've been told that a good part of it has come from things like the art of the films.<br />
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That being said, the fact that it is expanding to all things Potter, from just the books is, while predictable, kind of nice. The new news releases since the update on Pottermore has been rather non stop, but it's difficult to say if we will be getting releases like this long term. If our new posts will be weekly, then that increase of content is amazing, and truthfully addresses one of the bigger problems I noticed with Pottermore, as they were restricted by what Rowling had written (and she is quite the busy witch).<br />
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The way they primarily dance around this is the cheeky Pottermore Correspondant, who has gotten reactions that she(or he, not sure if we have a confirmed gender) writes like an obnoxious teenage girl. Yet, I have to say I'm still entertained, and I find her sort of charming, in an obnoxious sort of way.<br />
>.> Oh, You.... don't like that.<br />
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..... Ok, ok, hear me out! At the end of the day, it's new content, and while she has the writing style of Rita Skeeter, she also has the writing style of Rita Skeeter. On the right topic, she's an asshole, but as an individual, I kind of like reading the opinion of a witty ass. Which she has done, to great effect, and well, it isn't always for the best, as I'll discuss later, because it is something that I think is perhaps the worst, but.... I digress, this is for the positives.<br />
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I'm not sure there's much more to bring up. The launch, well, I think reading general facebook comments without looking at what's hidden, that'll really show what went wrong.<br />
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Still, the new information is decent, and the bonus in content is something that really would have been welcomed sooner.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5040216227357285106.post-86290860074273932572015-09-20T15:47:00.001-07:002015-09-20T15:47:35.549-07:00How Long Might We Wait? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I admit. I was looking forward to walking in, going to Pottermore.com and seeing the new site on 4 days ago. Even though I'm pretty sure <a href="http://pmpotionchamber.blogspot.com/2015/09/thoughts-on-pottermores-peek.html" target="_blank">my thoughts are known</a> about Pottermore and <a href="http://pmpotionchamber.blogspot.com/2015/08/pottermore-report-card-as-of-august.html" target="_blank">how they've run the site so far</a>. I was honestly looking forward to seeing exactly what crawled out of the ashes.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>But well... it's been three days. We know Pottermore's initial last day seemed to be the 16th, and would conclude at 1PM in London. So, why? Why are we stuck in this "limbo"? Well the short answer appears to be "Pottermore doesn't have it's **** together." Though they are claiming it's a good move to allow more access to their certificates.<br />
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However, to anyone during the beta period, this rings a sort of alarm, as we know from then how Pottermore can make a habit out of pushing dates off. Again. And again. And again. (Fun fact: Pottermore was originally supposed to open some time in October 2011. It opened April 14, 2012.)<br />
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So the thing is, it is probably difficult to guess what Pottermore will be doing. Very, very difficult. This is, after all, a site that had a limited beta period of about 9 months. And this isn't even counting when they may have started alpha testing the initial site, which may have been for a good bit longer. So if this is anything like the initial release, it may just be that much like the old guard, this group is very slow to move, and was unable to meet it's own deadlines.<br />
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So the question is effectively "how long has this been in the works?" We can't really be sure of this, but if I had to make my own effort in guessing, I would say it's been the case since the new Terms were added, or roughly around the time that comments were removed. Perhaps this may have been even sooner, with the release of Order of the Phoenix as the release was all in one go and rather short. And that was out around October, and the art came out well before then... so let's say that the plan has been in place for well over a year. This suddenly makes things seem a lot more likely, and pushes things closer to a "sane" development line to some extent, as they would have over a year to design and code the new site format, which itself may have been influenced by early demands for an app thath may have been "crystalized" in what we are getting now. Though I'm not certain that they had made the decision to axe games at that point. Certainly, it would explain the scant updates we received, but given there were still updates, it may not have been set by that time.<br />
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Further supporting this is the new "editorial" group to be added on the new site churning out content as well as Rowling. Now, unless they had just hired ramdom muggles off the street that showed signs of a pulse and thought, or perhaps hired a chimp army, we have to assume that Pottermore chose and went through a full hiring process for an editorial board of at least three people, if not more, and that these people are probably churning out content, even now, to go with the new features.<br />
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Giving even more creedence to this educated bet is the partnership between Pottermore and Warner Bros, that perhaps solves one of Pottermore's biggest problems: limited merchandise. More likely than not, merchandise requests go through and are passed by Warner Brothers. With this in mind, Pottermore gets to sell more merchandise, and Warner Brothers gets another storefront (which is debatable if they needed or not, but given that Pottermore may now be able to sell exclusive merchandise with the blessing of Warner Brothers, I doubt they are upset). Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11025133944609100737noreply@blogger.com2