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A WHEEL OF TIME COMMUNITY

Thom DeSimone

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About Thom DeSimone

  • Birthday April 8

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    To much to list really but... Woodworking, minature painting, books, table-top and videos gaming, Reading, writing, Streaming... And a vague interest in this little book series called The Wheel of Time
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    he/they

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  1. Hey Marlene! There are many Sci-fi Fantasy Lit cons that have virtual Tickets and quite a few are TWoT themed! SpoilerCon is one WoTCon is another as well as MalkieriCon on the other side of the pond for our Euro friends! JordanCon also is another and I believe they sometimes do virtual content but not 100% sure on that.
  2. The Wheel of Time flows through my veins as much as it does yours! That being said, there is a TON of wide-ranging crossover in many fandoms with us WoT nerds. Whether it's Star Trek, Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, or even cooking (love them honeycakes)! But another franchise that is near and dear to my heart is Avatar: The Last Airbender. The themes and many story elements deeply cross over into Wheel of Time.I will be exploring all of this in this blog series as I watch the live-action series. You can also catch some AtLAB content by tuning in to the current season of our Monday Night #reWoTch where we are watching the Animated series of AtLAB Book 2. Don't forget to join us Mondays at 9pm Eastern on the Youtubes ;-) Welcome to the Fire Nation capital, a place where beauty is shadowed with ominous foreboding. As the curtain rises on the live-action adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender, we are treated to a visual feast. The set design? Stunning. The costumes and makeup? On point. The opening sequence? Kyoshi, you absolute legend! She graces the screen looking fiercer than ever. The visualization of the avatars, lined up like a council of gods, with Roku's entrance at the end? Perfection. And we can’t forget the delightful addition of rat-chickens, which immediately shows the quirky touch that runs through the world of Avatar. But it's not just the aesthetics that I thoroughly enjoyed. The bending, oh the bending! Earth and fire collide in a spectacular display of power. The earthbender's use of stones to create a Gatling gun? Pure genius. And those rat-chickens? They steal the show with their hilarious antics. As the action unfolds, we witness the earthbender seamlessly blending defense and attack, surfing on rocks like a boss. And those 'chocobos' lurking in the background? A nod to gaming, perhaps, with Square Enix vibes that make you do a double-take. And then there's Firelord Sozen and crew, delivering performances that harken back to classic Kung Fu films. It's a nostalgic nod that many fans probably appreciate. I certainly did! But let's talk about the fire. The burning effects are chillingly realistic, a stark reminder of the showrunners' aim to appeal to “Game of Thrones" fans. The violence and gore is in service of a darker, grittier narrative. Side Note: I want to dive into a theory I have been seeing people passionately discuss. Is the Avatar truly one soul? I'm not entirely convinced. The Avatar communicates with past/dead Avatars, suggesting a shared consciousness rather than a simple cycle of rebirth. It's a thought-provoking concept that adds depth to the story. And then there's Aang, soaring through the skies without his trusty staff. A bold choice, considering its significance later on. Why the change? It's a departure from the original, but perhaps it sets the stage for new developments. Speaking of developments, the announcement of Aang as the Avatar and subsequent event at the Southern Air Temple adds a layer of tension. It makes the Fire Nation's decimation of the airbenders more plausible, concentrating some of the strongest/most influential airbenders in one vulnerable location. And can we talk about the air temples? Majestic doesn't even begin to describe them. Now, let's address the elephant-bison in the room: accents. Or rather, the lack thereof. Aang sounds... off. Like a robot trying to blend in with humans. It's a curious choice that has me scratching my head.He almost sounds like someone narrating Aang’s story/thoughts instead of a character living in the world. But enough about Aang, let's talk about everyone's favorite sky bison, Appa. He looks and sounds as magnificent as ever, a CGI masterpiece that brings joy to this diehard fans' heart. Aang emerges from his icy slumber and leaves behind his beloved Appa, a choice I’m not thrilled about him just HAVING the Air bison whistle already. Because I fear its the Netflix is giving us a subtle hint that certain filler episodes may be left out, but also a lesson in responsibility and sacrifice for the viewers >.<. And then there's the budding bond between Aang and Katara, a sweet moment that feels a tad forced but still manages to warm our hearts 😉 The showdown between Zuko and Sokka is a highlight, showcasing Sokka's clever tactics and Zuko's simmering frustration. Aang's intervention, effortlessly taking out firebenders, is a testament to his raw power. But it's Zuko's disappointment upon meeting Aang that strikes a chord. The gap between expectation and reality is palpable, setting the stage for a complex relationship. They've really got Zuko's obsession (or admiration?) of the Avatar down pat. It's like he worships the Avatar. I’ve always seen it like a kid idolizing a pro wrestler. The way he rambles on about past Avatars and their abilities, creating a collection of pictures and even little Avatar dolls, predicting what this new one will be like. It's all there, and was something wasn’t fleshed out until much later in the animated series. Now, let's address the Avatar state. His reaction to finding Monk Gyatso feels a bit underwhelming compared to the animated series, missing how it lands with an emotional gut punch. In the cartoon, Katara's role in helping Aang come out of the state was a pivotal moment that seems to be missing here. In summary, this live-action adaptation scores a solid 4 out of 10 from me. The visuals? A strong 7 to 10. The story? A middling 5. The bending, though? Top-notch, with the airbending presenting a unique challenge in a live action medium versus an animated one that the team tackles admirably. In the end, Avatar: The live-action show is a mixed bag of nostalgia, stunning visuals, and a few missed opportunities. But hey, it's a... ride.. that's just getting started. Here's hoping they continue to surprise us and capture more of the magic of the original series. So grab your gliders, wrangle your rat-chickens, and get ready for an adventure unlike any other (lets hope >.<). The elements are calling, is Avatar ready to answer? Air Benders in General Great Costuming - overall feel of the Air temples and the atmosphere was wonderful. Though it felt like they were all far too serious. The whole theme of the Airbenders is that they are ephemeral, flighty. They don't hold strongly to anything because all life is fleeting and all are one. Fire Nation / Benders I think they are doing well showing the Imperial nature of the Fire Nation at this point in their history. The bending itself does look good and “dance” like. I hope that theme carries through. Southern Water Tribe Totally get “Reservation Dogs” feel with how they acted together. I also like the feel from the Indigenous people in the most recent season of True Detective. I am glad they hired indigenous actors. Aang Trying to be as nice as possible and honestly hoping that this kid just received very poor direction but he has almost no personality IMO, he just seems SO FAKE and wooden. Aang’s happy go lucky/childlike nature is basically non-existent. He seems more like a narrator telling the viewer about Aang and what he is doing and less a living character. Gyatso Monk Gyatso was one of my favorite characters in the animated series, this one is… ok. I liked his look and his voice. I think they needed to make him more ‘fatherly’ toward Aang. It was so impactful seeing the flashback scenes and how he took care of Aang in the animated series, that made his death so gut wrenching.. Kitara Another one I am unsure on. I want to see more dialogue and scenes with Kitara. I like her look, the costuming is great. Sokka Overall I like his personality and acting, it took me a minute but I am hoping that he is still in his “protective defense” stage of his personality and that he will mellow out. Zuko Changing his drive from “regaining honor” to “his destiny to be fire lord” was a terrible mistake IMO. At the heart of regaining his “honor” was really “seeking his fathers approval” and it wasn't until he realized (Iroh showed him) that he would never get that because his father was a failure as a father/leader/person. Only then did he realize that it was up to himself to grant his “honor” back. Iroh He's ….good. That's the best I can say. I love Paul Sun-Hyung Lee a ton! But I can’t get past seeing the actor instead of the character.The character of Iroh should be bigger than life, while still humble, funny, charismatic, a deep sadness. This isn’t capturing that for me. I am hoping when he will get a chance to flex his acting muscles as the show progresses.
  3. TV Liandrin fo sho. Her drives in the show are SLIGHTLY more redeemable. I still attest she only "Went to the dark to save her son" For selfish reasons. She wanted him alive for what it meant for her, his wants and feelings not really considered. But I think she has more a redeemable arch than Book version. Also Kate is amazeballs.
  4. *Grabs a cup of whatever is closest thinking to himselft* "If the Tower is serving it it will be at worst palatable" *He raises his glass making eye contact with Elgee before bowing his head and bending at the waist slightly* "Mother" In search of a comfortable chair, he goes through the mental exercise of chiding himself for pushing too far while traveling at his age and paying for it at the moment with a sore back and tight shoulders. "How could a Feast of Fools go on without the Tower's greatest fool" he gives a sort of gravely coughing chuckle at that last.
  5. The nod we get to the scene from the books is pretty great and Rafe has spoken about how he wants to expand on that and weapon training in season 3 whilst they travel together.
  6. Perrin 100% TV show Perrin specifically. Marcus is amazing-looking. He lacks many of the book Perrin's toxic traits, is more realistic and Perrin in general cause he comes with many furry friends all with noses desperately in need of booping.
  7. Mary had just arrived in Tar Valon, and was not surprised to see the streets packed with people for the Feast of Fools celebration. She wore her feastday best and peered excitedly into each stall she passed. Many were delightfully covered in array of colors and lights, each as vibrant as the next! The smells and sights were wonderful, but her stomach rumbled loudly letting her know it regretted her haste in leaving before breakfast - but wait, was a that pie cart up ahead? As Mary quickened her pace toward the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pies, her excitement mingled with the infectious revelry of the Feast of Fools, the air filled with laughter, music, and the occasional burst of fireworks, creating a kaleidoscope of sensations that enveloped the City of Tar Valon in a joyous fervor; however, as she approached the pie cart, the bustling crowd seemed to part inexplicably, revealing a shadowy figure clad in dark, hooded robes, their piercing gaze fixated on Mary with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine, an unexpected foreboding that whispered of hidden dangers lurking beneath the festive façade, and as she reached for a delectable-looking pastry, a furtive movement caught her eye – a glint of steel emerging from the folds of the stranger's cloak, signaling a perilous undercurrent beneath the merriment that threatened to unravel the festivities into a tapestry of danger and intrigue.
  8. Steps onto the scene watching chocolate-covered streakers sprinting around whilst people laugh sharing drinks and making a cacophony of joy and cheer. "Glad to see not much has changed since I've been gone!"
  9. Ok .. so I have been trying to make this happen for a while hah and I think its pretty unlikely. Thom Merrilin - Juilin Sandar Who doesn't want the Batman and Batman spin-off that this would be? I posted this to Alexander Willum(sp) on Instagram and he liked it ...so obviously that means its gonna happen! Hilarious pairing.... TvShow Nyneave - Book 1 Nyneave Zoe would be boxing them ears all up and down the yard!
  10. Greetings fellow WoToholics aka “Statistically the best” Fandom! First off we want to thank you from the peaks all the way to slopes of Dragonmount! Because…. 🐉✨ This past Saturday, our community came together for an non-stop squee inducing, 11-hour “Charity Livestream #reWoTch Marathon of The Wheel of Time S1”, and because you and ALL our fabulous guests. We overchanneled right past our fundraising goal bringing in over $2000 for the victims of the #MauiFires through the American Red Cross on our Twitch channel. If there's one thing about our community those who have observed over the of the past 25 years can take away, it's our dedication to the embodiment of the title “Aes Sedai”. Our unity, compassion and altruism are forces to be reckoned with. The support from you touched the heart of the team that makes up this lonely mountain. Not only did we surpass our target to help the people of Maui, but we also gave away more than 50 prizes, making sure that balance is met and the generosity of our fellow Wheel of Time fans is rewarded in kind. Prizes like: Vintage “The Wheel of Time” TCG (trading card game) cards - Donated by Dragonmount Staff Rare Brandon Sanderson pins - Donated by Dragonmount Staff originally from Dragonsteel Swag from other fan groups from the “first age” of our community all the way through to today! Tarvalon.Net - Ta’varen Tees - The Black Tower Podcast Full six issue set of The Eye of the World Graphic Novels, recently republished and donated by Macmillian. A copy of The Great Hunt with tie in show cover art accompanied by a SIGNED ROBERT JORDAN BOOKPLATE! - Donated by the Jordan Estate Bumper stickers …and more! - Donated by Dragonmount Staff As we mentioned we were blessed by the Light with the extraordinary guests who brought their unique flair (and followers) to the livestream. We were joined throughout the day by the lovely Harriet McDougal and Maria Simons, as well as Innkeeper Hatch from The Dusty Wheel, Uno, Daniel from Black Tower Podcast, Jess from The Amrylin’s Study, Ta’veren Tavern, Sulin, Joe Lott from JordanCon, Amys Farstrider, Reese Sedai, WolfBrother, Roofmistress Leigh-a from Three Fold Talk, Dani from the Wheel Weaves Podcast, Zuul, Taffy B, Joe from tWoTcast, Ryan & Kay from Way of the Leaf, and the one and only Kevin Angus. The enthusiasm was palpable as we listened to their insights, shared laughter, and maybe even shed a tear or two. I think we can all agree that once GradeKangusBeef entered chat, one may say pure gold was milked from the very teat of a Trolloc. But it wasn't just the guests who made this event a moment for the Ages; it was all of you who participated and showcased your talents. The hilarious poems that were shared, the creative cosplay entries that brought our beloved characters to “life”, and the responses to our “Caption This” posts produced gasps of horror, incredulity, laughter, and heartfelt raw emotions dug from the frozen ground surrounding Dragonmount. The staff would also like to express our gratitude to Bill aka MatsdaggerX, who selflessly volunteered his time to ensure the event ran smoothly as a moderator and was one of the fastest clicks in the Westlands with his sharing of all the links in chat. His dedication and hard work helped make this event the success that it was, and we're deeply appreciative of his contributions. Now, let's talk about our community—why the Wheel of Time fandom stands out as “statistically the best fandom!” - Rafe Judkins. We not only revel in the magic and wonder of Robert Jordan's world, but we also channel that fervor to leave lasting marks in the ‘Age Lace’ that makes up our timeline. Through events like charity streams that us and many of our fellow content creators put together. We, as a community, showcase the strength of our unity and the depth of our compassion that flows through and links each and every one of us. And as if all that wasn't enough, we've got another piece of thrilling news to share: you helped our brand new baby Twitch channel grow in power!! We hit a milestone that opens up new avenues for us to provide even more interactive content to our beloved community- thank you! In conclusion, this charity stream event was more than just a marathon—it was a testament to the incredible power of this community’s dedication to the meaning behind the title of Aes Sedai. THANK YOU to each and every one of you, for your involvement, your support, and your love for “The Wheel of Time” series.
  11. Submitted during the #reWoTch Closet Cosplay contest
  12. Submitted during the #reWoTch Closet Cosplay contest
  13. Submitted during the #reWoTch Closet Cosplay contest
  14. Submitted during the #reWoTch Closet Cosplay contest
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