May 04, 2022

May the eye rolls be with you...🙄

IT'S NATIONAL CANDIED ORANGE PEEL DAY!

This is actually my way of telling you how much I do not care about Star Wars Day*. Yeah yeah, it's a cultural phenomenon. Unpopular opinion: the franchise is way overrated, I did not enjoy the original films or the numerous prequels, sequels, spinoffs, etc., and as someone who ordinarily loves a pun, I don't care for your "May the fourth be with you" jokes. You can have 'em, just don't expect me to be impressed. I'd sooner celebrate National Weather Observers Day, which is also today.

*It's okay if you love Star Wars. We don't have to love all the same things. I endorse whatever harmless fun brings you joy.

Over the years I've tried to understand my own dislike for a film franchise so many people adore. It's not that it's nerdy, or overplayed like a pop song that might make you scream if you have to hear it one more time. Maybe it's an overemphasis on the male experience that keeps me from identifying with the story.

I know you'll argue that Leia was a woman, but her identity as a character is so wrapped up in her existence relative to her brother and boyfriend that it just isn't enough and she comes across as a token more than a central figure.** Throwing her in a bikini on a leash to cater to the male gaze certainly didn't help matters. Later additions to the franchise incorporate more female characters, but you lost me with the first three, Lucas.

**Don't believe me? Imagine the trilogy with all the genders reversed. Everyone is now female except one guy who is the brother/love interest of the two main female characters and at some point he gets kidnapped by a giant female monster who chains him up and makes him parade around in a Speedo for her amusement. Different film series, right?

Hmm. Lack of concern for the female experience... seems somehow pertinent to our lives today. 🤔

eye roll gif

My reaction when someone exclaims "May the fourth be with you" for the hundredth time today.

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Before we get to our main course — amusing links to brighten your day — let's mention a few May 4th birthdays and historical facts:

Actor/comedian Will Arnett was born on this day 1970. He's famous for appearing in films like Semi-Pro and TV shows like Arrested Development, but I most enjoyed his work on 30 Rock as obnoxious villain Devon Banks.

Actress Audrey Hepburn was born on this day in 1929. She's famous for appearing in classic films like Breakfast at Tiffany's, Roman Holiday, and My Fair Lady, but perhaps even more famous for being a style icon that has transcended generations.

It was on this day in 1959 that the first Grammy Awards were held. Winners included Perry Como, Ella Fitzgerald, and Frank Sinatra.

Finally, it was on this day in 1953 that Ernest Hemingway won the Pulitzer Prize for his novel The Old Man and the Sea. High school English teachers have been tormenting students with it ever since.

Now on to some amusing links!

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1. Just another day at the Boredwalk office

Our newest team member is starting to unravel the truth of what goes on around here every day.

2. The ultimate in fantasy photography

Photographer Tara Mapes' Instagram feed is a visual feast, loaded with fairytale figures come to life.

3. Inviting an introvert to "wing it" and "go with the flow"

Kyrus Keenan Westcott might come out and hang, but he'll need to know what time the "winging it" and "going with the flow" starts and ends and whether there will be snacks. I can relate.

4. Cartoonist chronicles the after-life

The Immortal Grind imagines what goes on in Heaven, Hell, and everywhere in between.

5. Getting close and personal with meerkats.

South African wildlife photographer Nick Kleer has some amazing shots of big cats, elephants, and primates (check out his whole account), but his time with these friendly meerkats is completely adorable.

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OK! Hopefully these little diversions helped to brighten your day! We'll be back here in your inbox on Friday with more entertainment and Boredwalk news and a secret limited edition weekend drop you will NOT want to miss! Until then...

Peace, love, and orange peels (I guess?),

Meredith