Magic is something that has fascinated humans for centuries. The idea that there could be supernatural forces at work, manipulating reality and defying logic, is both thrilling and mysterious. One aspect of magic that has captivated many is the concept of a magic one, an object or gesture that has the power to bring about incredible transformations or phenomena. A magic one can be seen in many different forms across various cultures and folklore traditions. It is often depicted as a wand or a staff, adorned with symbols and imbued with mystical energy. In stories and legends, a wave of the magic one can conjure spells, grants wishes, or even unleash devastating curses.
And OH BOY those gross-outs near the end. The genre seems to shift from psychological horror with some supernatural mystery to what's essentially a monster hunt. I don't want to spoil too much because I want you to experience the revelations for yourself, but I do want to praise the finale.
By the time it s established that the possessed Deborah is definitely up to no good and is on the run with an abducted child, the only people who are left to pursue and stop her are a female police officer, Sarah, and the primary member of the film crew, Mia. This in itself is scary enough, as anyone who has seen a sufferer or is a sufferer themselves of the disease will recognize the symptoms as they re documented and discussed by the characters.
In stories and legends, a wave of the magic one can conjure spells, grants wishes, or even unleash devastating curses. The allure of the magic one lies in its ability to bend the rules of the natural world. It represents a kind of power that is beyond ordinary human capabilities, and it has been a central element in countless myths and tales of adventure.
Review: The Taking of Deborah Logan
In the spirit of Octoberween, I'd like to spotlight a movie that features the scariest subject I could think of:
As soon as she figures out how to upload this embarrassing photo of you to Facebook, you're screwed. (Photo courtesy of Tiago Camargo)
Naaahhh, that was a really cheap joke. I just wanted to use this adorable picture. Elderly folks shouldn't be treated as inherently frightening, but there are certain aspects of growing old that can rattle us at any age. The Taking of Deborah Logan capitalizes on these realities of aging and by doing so creates an innovative (and deeply unsettling) horror film experience. This movie delivers stellar female characters, realistic reactions to alarming situations, and one of the most terrifying shots I have ever seen in a horror movie.
"The Taking of Deborah Logan" movie poster
The movie follows a documentary team as they film the titular Deborah Logan's experience of Alzheimer's disease. This in itself is scary enough, as anyone who has seen a sufferer or is a sufferer themselves of the disease will recognize the symptoms as they're documented and discussed by the characters. The opening act of Deborah Logan explores the disease and the damage it deals not only to Deborah but to her daughter, Sarah, who is tasked with caring for her mother and preventing the house from being repossessed. The actresses who portray these characters really sell the struggle between mother and daughter with authentic emotion. My one critique of this pair is the (unconscious?) reliance on lesbian stereotypes for Sarah, but I might be picking up on that because my own queerness makes me privy to all the gay jokes.
Not pictured: her talking about a UHaul, her boyish childhood room, and her bickering about her masculine style of clothing with her mother. Give her a pet pitbull and you've got a home run. I can say this stuff because I'm gay.
Many of the early scares can be attributed to mental deterioration caused by Alzheimer's, and it truly hurts to watch Deborah lose pieces of her brilliant self as her condition worsens. Of course, the disease is pinned for some of the semi-supernatural phenomena the documentary team catches on film. As the disease ramps up and the incidents get increasingly bizarre, it becomes clear to the characters (and the audience) that there is something spookier afoot. In fact, for the first time in any horror flick I can remember, a main character decides to bail rather than continue meddling with the unholy entity that's interfering with their film-making.
If you haven't caught on, I'm not good at screenshots.
Body horror plays a big role throughout the film, which fits with the theme of fearing the things that happen naturally to our bodies over time. If you're squeamish about gore, you won't be writhing on the floor by the time the credits role, but you'll certainly get nervous about scratching an itch too hard for the next. I don't know, possibly century.
You never know when your skin is just gonna peel off like cellophane from the top of yesterday's tuna casserole.
And OH BOY those gross-outs near the end. The genre seems to shift from psychological horror with some supernatural mystery to what's essentially a monster hunt. I don't want to spoil too much because I want you to experience the revelations for yourself, but I do want to praise the finale.
By the time it's established that the possessed Deborah is definitely up to no good and is on the run with an abducted child, the only people who are left to pursue and stop her are a female police officer, Sarah, and the primary member of the film crew, Mia. A horror movie with an all-lady final confrontation. I could just pee myself.
But I won't, because I already peed myself during that final confrontation. As a found-footage film, Deborah Logan does have some shaky, frustrating shots toward the conclusion, which takes place in a tight, low-light location. It's a dizzying few minutes of shuffling and shouting through a narrow cave system, and I fear some of the intensity is lost in wild shots and cluttered voices. However, the scene is redeemed by a chilling, unexpected visual that will recur in my nightmares for decades.
*Spongebob voice* I don't need it. I DON'T NEED IT.
Really, it was worth it. This film freshened up the found-footage style for me. The characters were actual people (lesbian stereotypes aside) and I was concerned for them. Jill Larson nails the complicated role of Deborah and manages to make me sympathize with her and fear her. Eternally. I mean, my gawd. Altogether, this movie was deliciously frightening, notable more for the reality-based attributes (Alzheimer's, interesting characters) than the supernatural ones (the mythology was useful to the plot, but was nothing groundbreaking, and that's just fine).
Put this on your Halloween to-watch list. It's currently on Netflix, so hop to it. If spooky isn't your thing but you still want to support me because you love me or feel obligated or what have you, not to worry. I intend to review other movies, books, or shows in the future. Someday, I might even come up with a regular schedule for posting reviews, blog entries, and prompts. Someday.
In the meantime, snuggle up with your loved ones and a crucifix to watch the most unusual possession movie I've encountered to date.
By the time it's established that the possessed Deborah is definitely up to no good and is on the run with an abducted child, the only people who are left to pursue and stop her are a female police officer, Sarah, and the primary member of the film crew, Mia. A horror movie with an all-lady final confrontation. I could just pee myself.
From Merlin's staff in Arthurian legends to Harry Potter's wand, the magic one has become an iconic symbol in fantasy literature and media. But the idea of a magic one is not limited to fictional stories. In real life, people have sought to harness the power of objects and rituals to bring about positive change or protect themselves from harm. Many ancient civilizations believed in the power of amulets or talismans, which were believed to have magical properties and could bring luck, ward off evil, or protect the wearer. Even today, people continue to look for ways to tap into the potential of a magic one. Whether through the use of crystals, incantations, or other rituals, individuals believe that they can manifest their desires or influence the world around them. This belief in the power of a magic one is perhaps a testament to humanity's eternal fascination with the mysterious and the unknown. In conclusion, the concept of a magic one has long captivated our imaginations. It represents a yearning for extraordinary power and the desire to transcend the limitations of the world we know. Whether in folklore, literature, or our own lives, the idea of a magic one continues to symbolize the magic and wonder that exists in our world..
Reviews for "The Mind-Body Connection in One Sumn Gottq Shake: Harnessing the Power Within"
1. Sarah - 1/5 stars - I was really disappointed with the "Magic one sumn gottq shake". The flavor was extremely artificial and the consistency was watery. It tasted nothing like a real shake and I felt like I wasted my money on a cheap imitation. I would not recommend this product to anyone who is looking for a genuinely delicious and satisfying shake.
2. John - 2/5 stars - I tried the "Magic one sumn gottq shake" and it didn't live up to my expectations. The texture was clumpy and the taste was overpowering with artificial sweeteners. It left an unpleasant aftertaste in my mouth and I couldn't finish the entire serving. I think there are much better options out there for protein shakes that actually taste good and provide the necessary nutrients.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars - The "Magic one sumn gottq shake" seemed promising, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The consistency was too thin and it lacked the creaminess I look for in a shake. The flavor was also quite bland, and I had to add extra ingredients to make it more enjoyable. Overall, I was disappointed with this product and would not purchase it again.
4. David - 1/5 stars - I had high hopes for the "Magic one sumn gottq shake" but it just didn't deliver. The taste was extremely artificial, almost like drinking a chemical concoction. The texture was also very thin and it didn't feel satisfying or filling. I would not recommend this shake to anyone who wants a quality product that actually tastes good and provides the intended benefits.
5. Lisa - 2/5 stars - I was really let down by the "Magic one sumn gottq shake". The flavor was overly sweet and had a weird aftertaste. The consistency was also too thin and it didn't leave me feeling satiated like other shakes I've tried. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this product as there are better options available that provide a more enjoyable and satisfying experience.