deerstalker

https://www.thenerdelement.com/2023/02/11/nfl-championship-game-prediction-updates-and-the-super-bowl-pick/

Good evening, everyone! Today I want to discuss what pick I got correct and which one I got wrong! So, let’s get started! So, I predicted that the Eagles would beat the 49ers 34-28, but the final score was 31-7 Eagles over the 49ers in a blowout. The 49ers offense could not get their offense going and that made the defense be on the field for too long and were worn down. The 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy got hurt by hurting his finger and wrist and it really impacted his throwing. He could not throw the ball with his injury bugging him and the backup quarterback Josh Johnson had to come and play. That did not help the 49ers offense at all. They needed their running game to show up. The running game did okay, but it was still not enough to win the game.

I predicted that the Bengals would beat the Chiefs 24-20, but the final score was 23-20 Chiefs over the Bengals in a close game. The Bengals fought really hard to try and beat the Chiefs, but they came up just short. The reason that the Bengals came up short is because they made some big mistakes by getting crucial penalties against them and not protecting Joe Burrow enough. The offensive line was a little banged up. If they had their whole offensive linemen healthy and as starters, they would have beaten the Chiefs. So, the Chiefs got revenge and they are now going to the Super Bowl.

So overall, I have gotten just 1 out of 2 picks correct!! Now, let’s get to my final prediction of the NFL season, the Super Bowl!!!!

Tomorrow, we will be watching one of the two greatest teams in the NFL, the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. Both if these teams have been outstanding in the entire season and to this moment to be in the Super Bowl in State Farm Stadium. So, who will win the Super Bowl and who do I think will win the Super Bowl? Both of these teams are coming off with their wins two weeks ago. If the Chiefs can get a lead first in the game, then there is a chance that the Chiefs will win. If the Eagles can get a lead early in the game and put pressure on Patrick, then they will win the game. Also, if the Chiefs defense can shut down the Eagles powerful offense, the Chiefs will win the game. Andy Reid has been really creative every time his offense gets inside the red zone and so do the Eagles offense. I think I see the Chiefs beating the Eagles in a very close game 37-34. I think that it could go into overtime if this is going to be a shootout. I don’t think the Eagles can beat the Chiefs in the shootout. I mean they could if they get lucky, but I don’t think they can in my opinion. I think that Andy Reid just makes perfect calls and find ways to get the ball to Demarcus Robinson, Ju Ju Smith Schuster, Marquez Valdes Scandling, Kadarius Toney, Skyy Moore, Justin Watson, Isiah Pacheco, and Travis Kelce. Kelce is going to be a huge factor for the Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes has to make sure that he can make big plays if he needs to without limping because the injury could get in his way and that actually helps the Eagles. So, let’s see what happens tomorrow!

So, what do you guys think about the Super Bowl pick?! I would love to hear lots of comments, thoughts, opinions, questions, or concerns down below!

Stay tuned for NFL updates.

The post NFL Championship Game Prediction Updates and the Super Bowl Pick! appeared first on The Nerd Element.

https://blackgirlnerds.com/time-to-go-for-a-ride-and-see-fast-x/

The end of the road begins. 

Fast X, the tenth film in the Fast & Furious Saga, launches the final chapters of one of cinema’s most storied and popular global franchises, now in its third decade and still going strong with the same core cast and characters as when it began.

Over many missions and against impossible odds, Dom Toretto (Vin Diesel) and his family have outsmarted, out-nerved and outdriven every foe in their path. Now, they confront the most lethal opponent they’ve ever faced: A terrifying threat emerging from the shadows of the past who’s fueled by blood revenge, and who is determined to shatter this family and destroy everything—and everyone—that Dom loves, forever.  

In 2011’s Fast Five, Dom and his crew took out nefarious Brazilian drug kingpin Hernan Reyes and decapitated his empire on a bridge in Rio De Janeiro. What they didn’t know was that Reyes’ son, Dante (Aquaman’s Jason Momoa), witnessed it all and has spent the last 12 years masterminding a plan to make Dom pay the ultimate price. 

Dante’s plot will scatter Dom’s family from Los Angeles to the catacombs of Rome, from Brazil to London and from Portugal to Antarctica. New allies will be forged and old enemies will resurface. But everything changes when Dom discovers that his own 8-year-old son (Leo Abelo Perry, Black-ish) is the ultimate target of Dante’s vengeance. 

Directed by Louis Leterrier (Clash of the Titans, The Incredible Hulk), Fast X stars returning cast members Michelle Rodriguez, Tyrese Gibson, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, Nathalie Emmanuel, Jordana Brewster, Sung Kang, Jason Statham, John Cena and Scott Eastwood, with Oscar^® winner Helen Mirren and Oscar^® winner Charlize Theron. 

The film also features an extraordinary new cast including Oscar^® winner Brie Larson as Tess, a rogue representative from the Agency; Alan Richtson (Reacher) as Aimes, the new head of the Agency who doesn’t hold the same fondness for Dom’s crew as his predecessor, Mr. Nobody; Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad) as a Brazilian street racer with a powerful tie to Dom’s past; and legendary Oscar^® winner Rita Moreno as Dom and Mia’s Abuelita Toretto. 

Fast X is produced by Neal H. Moritz, Vin Diesel, Justin Lin, Jeff Kirschenbaum and Samantha Vincent. The executive producers are Joseph M. Caracciolo, Jr., David Cain, Chris Morgan, Amanda Lewis and Mark Bomback. www.thefastsaga.com

Only in theaters May 19.

https://blackgirlnerds.com/bgns-february-2023-film-and-tv-lovers-valentines-day-gift-guide/

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s the perfect excuse for our love of TV and movies to collide with our favorite forms of self-care. After all, what’s better than a binge-watch fest combined with an at-home DIY spa treatment? We certainly can’t think of anything. From creating the ideal ambience to using the most fab products to primp with while watching the latest show, this guide has you covered. 

Here are the best products to pair with some of our February picks, and best believe they’ve been chosen with love.

1. Perfect Match

The reality show Perfect Match arrives on Netflix on Valentine’s Day, and we have some delish non-alcoholic wine and rosé from Joyus that you’ll want to try as you watch celebrity singles search for love at a tropical paradise. Setting the luxurious vibe, Joyus is 100% woman-and-sober-owned and 100% bubbly deliciousness without the hangover.

To set the tone for the drama that will inevitably ensue, light up a Main Character or Rom Com candle from Mise en Scent. Hand poured in Brooklyn, these genre themed candles are inspired by films. 

After that, it’s time to sit back, relax, and watch the matching and un-matching relationships begin.

2. Not Dead Yet

Jane the Virgin star Gina Rodriguez stars in the ABC show Not Dead Yet, which premiered on February 8, 2023, about a woman in her thirties returning to her hometown after a relationship doesn’t pan out. This is one for those who need the total self-care pampering package. 

The first thing to do is make an order at the Black woman-owned brand Postal Petals, as founder Talia Boone knows all about the healing magic of flower arranging. These vivid flowers could help bring the colors back into anyone’s life.

We also recommend Plants by Post, which offers an array of plants right from the nursery. They even offer workshops, like Valentine’s Day candle-making, Valentine’s Day floral centerpiece making, and more. There’s nothing like flowers to heal a wounded heart and make any space beautiful.

Then, comes the pampering. Your skin will thank you for Clean Beauty by Ana K and Aminnah. Clean Beauty by Ana K was founded by a medical aesthetician, AKA Ana K, with a passion for ethical skincare that helps with all body and face problems, including those pesky zits that cram our style. Aminnah is both playful and smooth, especially with the colorful vegan-friendly body butters, whipped soaps, moisturizing shaving soap, body oils, and more. 

We have a strong suspicion that these products are going to help get over any ex, and in the case of Not Dead Yet, stop things from feeling too grim.

3. You

Now, this isn’t exactly the romantic vibe that most people dream of having, but Netflix’s You Season 4, which drops on February 9, is certainly keeping people on their toes. Joe Goldberg is going from killer to detective, so we have some products for those trying to wipe their hands clean of a romance gone wrong.  

Fomin is unlike anything we’ve seen before with on-the-go soap sheets and tablets designed to travel with us anywhere. Each pack saves us from any and all dirty situations with dreamy scents like bergamot rose, lavender aloe, and more.

However, we know some bad romances still leave us feeling extra worn down, so we recommend the Curel line for sensitive skin. Let’s face it, the stress of Mr. Joe Goldberg after all these years could cause a wrinkle or two. 

The Curel Makeup Cleansing Gel ($20) removes makeup with ease without getting rid of the skin’s moisture.

Mella will help with a good night’s sleep, and gorgeous skin, after the unpleasantness of a roller coaster relationship. Steady as You Glow ($24) is a melatonin-infused facial moisturizer that helps skin not to look tired or dull. 

We’re hoping this is a winning formula for a fresh start. But just in case it’s a fitting time to get out of town, the Black-owned brand Cincha has travel needs covered with its Travel Belt Bag ($75), which is great for both short and long trips. 

4. 80 for Brady

You’re never too old to fangirl, and the film 80 for Brady, now available in theaters, reminds us of the magic of both Valentine’s and Galentine’s Day.

80 for Brady is about four best-friend senior ladies who travel on a wild trip to see their hero, Tom Brady, during the 2017 Super Bowl.

We know exactly how you, and your friends, can look your best when you go to see your hero. Start things off by trying the Essentials Skin Care Collection developed by aesthetician Beth Pestotnik. Her products know how to take on aging, acne and more.

The Pure Deep Cleansing Gel for blemish prone skin does wonders with the power of oil control, salicylic acid, and other delectable ingredients. 

While the dream team made up of Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field aren’t exactly in their twenties anymore, the movie trailer makes it clear that they’ll probably never get old, especially when it comes to a hilarious adventure. 

Perhaps the Replenix Limited Edition Anti Aging Kit ($49) is their secret. Either way, it sure is ours. Each product has powerhouse ingredients, including medical-grade retinol, green tea polyphenols technology and more. 

After our skin is simply glowing, it’s time for the final touches. Undone Beauty has the stunning Light on Lip lipstick that comes in vivid colors, including royal red, honey rose and others. After all, whether it’s Tom Brady or someone else, you want to dress to impress when it comes to your heroes.

https://nerdist.com/article/the-last-of-us-fedra-evil-explained-hbo/

HBO’s The Last of Us has amassed so much success for so many different reasons. One of these is how easy it is to match a scene from the show to its game analog. Of course, there have been distinct changes, and it’s these changes that also contribute to such an engaged audience. Aspects of the show that stray from what we anticipate contribute to the sheer horror that it cultivates. These make it generally more terrifying to watch than the game is to play. This is especially true with how the series depicts FEDRA.

The nuance to these FEDRA changes is that they may not be changes at all based on the concept of the game. Rather, as is the case with other translational aspects of the adaptation, they are expansions of the source material. FEDRA, like with Joel and Tess’s relationship, required more intentional fleshing out to raise the stakes of the series’ storytelling.

As a reminder, FEDRA is a reduced form of government that effectively operates through different branches in different quarantine zones throughout the USA. As the central government dissolved after Outbreak Day, FEDRA assumed control. Without answering to any higher power, their acts of depravity and violence go unchecked. The series adaptation has used this blueprint to construct an austere, authoritarian body in The Last of Us that doesn’t have anything material to do with the fungal infection. They have thus made it into one of the most unnerving facets of the show. The creators have been able to do this in part by allowing some of the most merciless parts of history to repeat itself. 

As soon as the show transitions from Outbreak Day to 20 years later, we see the violence of FEDRA. Instead of seeing Joel waking up on a couch, a child with clunky, worn out sneakers walks up to the walls of the quarantine zone; the signs of infection are clear. Once FEDRA receives confirmation from the diagnostic scanner that the child is infected, a soldier sticks a syringe in his arm with the promise of his favorite food and toys. We next see Joel as he dumps the small body into a firepit in the QZ as his assigned work duty. The routine aspect of this travesty is what is most frightening. It recalls the mandatory labor of concentration camps, victims forced to dispose of bodies of other victims. The historical allusions don’t stop there. 

Mere moments later, as Joel finishes his shift for the day, he joins a crowd of people. In front of the crowd, three QZ inhabitants stand on a platform, each with their wrists tied behind their backs, three nooses dangling before them. A FEDRA officer is blasting the transgressors’ violations through a bullhorn. They never show us the hanging itself, but the fear-mongering is on full display. The lack of shock on Joel’s face doesn’t undermine it at all, nor does him walking immediately to a different FEDRA officer for bargaining. This is normal to him, and he believes resistance is futile.

In episode three, Ellie goes against Joel’s wishes and leads the way down a road to a grassless stretch of Earth littered with segmented skeletons. The introduction to Bill’s town takes place in a flashback, a few days after Outbreak Day, when FEDRA soldiers began to transport uninfected residents to quarantine zones. Joel tells Ellie, “[…] Told you you were going to a QZ and you were… if there was room.” If you look closer at the patch of land, there is more than just bones. We see suitcases, tattered articles of clothing, even a guitar case. The images immediately recall the Holocaust Museum in DC, with rooms filled with shoes and other items left behind at death camps.

When Ellie asks why, Joel tells her “Dead people can’t be infected.” The look on her face is heartbreaking — she who has lived her entire life in a post-apocalyptic world, who had never seen the pristine white-picket fences and wooden front doors unmarked by FEDRA’s spray paint.. The visual manifestation of FEDRA’s horrifying acts — of the people who have raised her and educated her from birth — is more harrowing to her than stabbing an infected person in the eye, which she does with ease just five minutes before. 

In episode four and five, however, FEDRA’s sinister lore blows wide open in Kansas City. The two episodes contain the most original content of the entire show, with a drastic reshaping of Sam and Henry’s segment of the canon. As Joel and Ellie arrive in Kansas City, we learn that the local resistance (separate from the Fireflies) has liberated the city from FEDRA. The resistance leader is Kathleen, an original character played by none other than Melanie Lynskey. KC FEDRA has a reputation that even reached Joel in Boston. “Monsters, savages, you heard right. Raping, torturing, and murdering people for 20 years. You know what happens when you do that to people? The moment they get a chance, they do it right back to you.”

Despite the resistance’s victory, Kathleen has a vendetta against FEDRA collaborators. Those people sold out resistance members like her brother for leverage. This is again a deeper depiction of how FEDRA abused its power to pin innocent civilians against each other. In this case, it was so that Henry could maintain Sam’s access to the chemotherapy treatment. This portion of the FEDRA story alludes further to authoritarian regimes in the ways that lamentable conditions force civilians to turn on each other, breaking the resistance, and falling victim to the ruling part as a means of survival. 

Ultimately, HBO’s The Last of Us houses the chilling echoes of our world’s violent history, mitigating the horror of flesh-eating zombies. Those with a true grasp of the story understand that it has little to do with fungus or an apocalypse. Instead, the story uses those conditions as a vehicle to meditate on humanity — how it can rise up in some cases or break down in others. Could we really call a microorganism evil when its biological imperative is to survive and multiply, just the same as humans? Instead, these new, much scarier perspectives of FEDRA redistribute the antagonism of The Last of Us, giving viewers greater pause when asked to consider the evil at play.

HBO’s The Last of Us airs every Sunday.

The post How FEDRA Is Different, and Scarier, in THE LAST OF US TV Show appeared first on Nerdist.