Everybody’s Talkin’ 12 – 21 (Chatter from Other Bloggers)

Dear Santa,

I know, I know – I haven’t really been a good boy this year. I’ve been part of too many avoidable arguments, and pissed off people all over the place. But I’ve tried to be a good little boy, I really have! I don’t pirate movies anymore, and my theatre-jumping is down to almost nil!

That’s gotta count for something, doesn’t it?

Or maybe it doesn’t. Maybe I could be an even better person and not be so preachy and snobbish. Maybe I could be more open to the ideas and wants of other people. That’s a hard thing to do. Hell, I don’t know how you do it. I can only image that if it were me listening to children ask me for things for two months solid, I’d eventually snap and tell some sweet six-year-old “Bitch, I got your Barbie Dream House right here“.

But that’s why you are adored by millions, and I have a readership of dozens.

I will try harder – I must. I don’t say this so that maybe next year I can get a new turntable. I say this because it’s the right thing to do. I know that; I always have. It’s time I started embodying it.

In the meantime, I’m hoping you can take a moment or two on your busy Monday night to see some people I know. They’ve been great friends to me, and I think such friendship deserves to be rewarded. For them, I have a few requests…

 

For Corey Atad of JustATad, a Timex watch. The guy is right more often than I give him credit for (but don’t tell him that), however he takes my arguments and barbs like a champ. In other words, to quote the classic ad campaign, he takes a licking and keeps on ticking.

For Matthew Brown and Matthew Price of Mamo, noise-cancelling headphones in honour of their ability to block out the static. Besides being great friends, these guys have been endlessly enthusiastic and supportive of the things I do. They’re great champions of the notion that there are so many different conversations to be had, and so many different ways to have it.

For Simon Columb of Screen Insight, a chemistry set. It’s not easy to disagree with others respectfully and not affect one’s friendship, and yet the man has perfected the technique. He’s a cinematic alchemist.

For Jessica Elgensteirna of The Velvet Cafe, a compass. More than once this year, I’ve felt like I was losing my way, and talking with her has helped set me back in the right direction. She should always be able to reach into her pocket and have the favour returned.

For Andrew James of Row Three, some tricked out tires and rims for his ride. The guy thinks nothing of making a long drive to spend quality time with friends – he should be able to do it with a little bit of flash.

For Sasha James (no relation), a Tiffany’s keychain. The girl has become like family around these parts, and might as well get a set of keys to our pad so she can come and go as she pleases. Might as well attach them to something shiny. (Then again, she might like the complete Sherlock on blu-ray just as much)

For Alex Kittle of Film Forager, a complete set of DeSerres brushes. Her art is so whimsical, beautiful  and cool, that she should have the very best toys in her toy box. Oh, get her a job while you’re at it.

For Andrew Robinson of GMan Reviews, a new laptop. The man is a tech support ninja.

For Jess Rogers and Rachel Thuro of Reel Insight, a step-ladder. As the landscape of the blogosphere changes, they have been constant in their friendship. Their site is in for a year of transition, and I dearly want it to be able to take the next step upwards.

For Stevee Taylor of Cinematic Paradox and Sam Fragoso of The Movie Mezzanine, bitchin’ sneakers. Their youthful energy and drive keeps me in perpetual motion to keep up. The least they could have is balance and support while they are setting the pace.

For everyone else who has spent even a minute with me in person or online talking movies – who are far too numerous to name, but all have a special place in my heart – the blu-ray box set of their choice.

Finally for Lindsay, a zen garden. The woman has the patience of a buddhist monk to be able to put up with me and all my watching habits, writing, habits, and podcasting habits. She should be able to find a small piece of nirvana while she endures it all.

 

Thanks Big Man – Good luck on Monday, here’s hoping you get clear skies.

Merry Christmas!

– Ryan

 

P.S. – If by any chance you’re feeling merciful and giving, I wouldn’t say no to a Criterion blu-ray of ANATOMY OF A MURDER. Just sayin’.