A cam-girl’s on/offline life caught-in-between un/real
Marcela Jacobina directs an anti fairytale following a cam-girl caught between her online persona and the struggles of her reality
In the digital age, the lives we construct online are not always a reflection of the realities that play out around us. Presenting a utopic vision of the version of ourselves we wish to embody, these public identities often jar with the authentic lives we lead beyond the digital realm – muddying the sense of being attached to our true selves. Entering a new generation that actively skews towards preferring their lives online, we are forced to confront the unwanted realities that face us – raw and devoid of the glamour we might choose.
In short film Nobody, Brazilian director Marcela Jacobina explores the internal conflict of a cam-girl caught between her personal struggles and the image she presents online. As her imagined persona threatens to destabilize her truth, the film explores how relationships formed through constructed versions of self are just as inauthentic as the self-manipulated identities that facilitate them. Bringing together a female-centric crew, shooting began with the creation of an original Instagram profile for its protagonist, helping to shape the role and bring an extra layer of authenticity to the narrative.
Get ‘Disked’ from Decathlon and find your playmates/ground.
Z69 Dis-Co_Frisbee Community
Looking for a fun and engaging activity that brings friends and family together? Look no further than Ultimate Frisbee, a dynamic and exhilarating game that offers the perfect blend of competition, teamwork, and outdoor enjoyment. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to the world of sports, Ultimate Frisbee offers an inclusive and exciting experience that everyone can enjoy. And you can start with the Frisbee community in Bangalore now.
Ultimate Frisbee, often simply referred to as “Ultimate,” is a non-contact team sport that combines elements of soccer, football, and basketball, all played with a flying disc – the Frisbee. The objective is simple: work together to advance the disc down the field and score points by catching it in the opposing team’s end zone. What sets Ultimate Frisbee apart is its emphasis on sportsmanship, fair play, and self-officiating. Players respect the rules and maintain a spirit of mutual respect, making it a great choice for friendly gatherings.
Ultimate Frisbee doesn’t require a high level of physical fitness or specialised equipment. Anyone, regardless of age or skill level, can join in the fun. It’s an excellent way to introduce sports to children and to get the entire family involved in outdoor activities.
Ultimate Frisbee fosters strong teamwork and communication skills. Players must strategize, pass the disc efficiently, and coordinate their movements to outwit opponents. It’s a wonderful opportunity for friends and family to collaborate and strengthen their bonds.
Engaging in Ultimate Frisbee provides a healthy dose of physical activity, promoting cardiovascular fitness, agility, and coordination. It’s a refreshing alternative to screen time and
While Ultimate Frisbee can get competitive, the focus is on good sportsmanship. Players resolve conflicts on the field through open and respectful communication. This makes it an excellent way to enjoy healthy competition among friends and family without losing sight of the enjoyment and camaraderie.
Ultimate Frisbee offers a chance to disconnect from screens and engage in face-to-face interaction. It’s an opportunity to laugh, share, and create lasting memories in the great outdoors.
All you need to start a game of Ultimate Frisbee is a Frisbee and an open space, such as a park or a beach. There are no expensive gear requirements, making it an accessible choice for everyone. Rules are straightforward, and a casual game can be played with a small group or a large gathering.
So, the next time you’re looking for a fantastic way to bring friends and family together, consider Ultimate Frisbee. It’s a game that promotes connection, teamwork, and a whole lot of fun – a perfect recipe for unforgettable moments. Get ready to enjoy the thrill of the flying disc and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Part 1 Intro of a Series Covering Brewers & Pubs of North Bangalore
Bangalore is a fantasy land of freedom and a practical dream for small town teenagers. I was one of them in my final school years. Whenever watching Hollywood films which celebrate American city culture, I never thought about going there. I wanted to be in Bangalore. I fell in love with Bangalore at first sight when I came for a family tour. I didn’t know how it happened. Now I realize that we all have a love-hate relationship with this inevitable city and its world of breweries and pubs where conversations ( even if music is too loud), first dates, breakups, love triangles, pitches, patches and everything that is not allowed in your office and our cute conservative hometown!
Ok. For serious guys, I will tell you some authentic stuff.
India’s beer culture has started changing fast in recent years. Old days were only about mass-produced lagers from well-known or brand breweries. The craft beer movement changed everything so fast. Bangalore led that movement to a revolution. Craft breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs have sprouted up across the city, offering an array of innovative and unique brews. Lot of international mixologists and brew masters from America and other places started coming here and working just behind the walls of your pubs near me/you.
I will introduce them to you later in our video series.
Bangalore is Asking; Why Me? Because You are a city of Diboozity!
One of the key reasons why Bangalore is called the Beer Capital of India is the quality and variety of craft beers available. Brewmasters in the city have pushed the boundaries of traditional brewing, experimenting with different ingredients, flavours, brewing techniques. And stunning names also. This commitment to innovation has resulted in a diverse range of beers, from hoppy IPAs to robust stouts and fruity sours. Bangalore’s beer fandom can always find something new and exciting to tickle their taste buds.
Breweries Near Me/You and Beer Neighborhoods
Bangalore boasts several neighborhoods that have become synonymous with craft beer culture. Areas like MG Road, Indiranagar, Koramangala, Whitefield and may be in your place (Because everywhere, something new is opening ) are home to numerous breweries and brewpubs. Walking down the streets of these neighbourhoods, one can easily spot the vibrant taprooms and lively pubs where people happily partying.
Beer Tech and Tech City; How Bangalore Mixed Both ?
The strong presence of technology companies in Bangalore has indirectly contributed to the city’s beer culture. Tech-savvy professionals from all over the country and the world have made Bangalore their home, bringing with them a penchant for craft beer. The intersection of technology and beer culture has led to the development of innovative beer apps, online beer forums, and beer-tasting events. Bangaloreans use these platforms to connect, share their beer experiences, and discover new brews.
Brewery Tours and Events
Bangalore’s craft breweries often open their doors to visitors, offering brewery tours and hosting beer-related events. These experiences provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, from the selection of ingredients to the fermentation and bottling stages. It’s a great way for beer enthusiasts to gain a deeper appreciation for the craft and interact with the passionate individuals behind the brews.
Beer and Food Pairing
Brewpubs and restaurants in the city have taken the art of pairing beer with food to new heights. Whether it’s a spicy Indian curry, a juicy burger, or a plate of gourmet cheeses, there’s a perfect craft beer to complement every dish. This culinary exploration has enhanced the overall beer-drinking experience in the city.
Bangalore’s emergence as the Beer Capital of India is a testament to the city’s ability to embrace modern trends while preserving its rich cultural heritage. The craft beer revolution has not only given beer enthusiasts a reason to celebrate but has also created a thriving industry that supports local businesses and promotes innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of craft beer, Bangalore offers an exciting and vibrant beer culture that is bound to leave you impressed and craving for more.
Our Brewery Tour Video Series starts soon. Stay in touch, Don’t miss the party.
“Roma” is a cinematic masterpiece that takes viewers on a poignant and visually stunning journey through the life of a domestic worker in 1970s Mexico City. Director Alfonso Cuarón’s meticulous attention to detail and breathtaking black-and-white cinematography create a mesmerising atmosphere. The film’s emotional depth and the remarkable performance by Yalitza Aparicio make it a profoundly moving experience. “Roma” is a beautifully crafted exploration of class, family, and personal resilience, earning its place as a modern classic in world cinema.
09. Mank (2020) : David Fincher’s dream project about ‘Citizen Kane’
“Mank” is a stylish and meticulously crafted biographical drama that delves into the life of screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Director David Fincher’s keen eye for detail and the film’s stunning monochrome cinematography transport viewers to 1930s Hollywood with authenticity. Gary Oldman’s performance as Mank is exceptional, offering a compelling portrayal of the brilliant yet troubled writer. The film offers a fascinating look at the creation of the iconic film “Citizen Kane” while exploring the politics and power struggles of the era. “Mank” is a must-watch for cinephiles and history enthusiasts alike.
08. The Artist (2011) : A mostly silent film about the silent film era
“The Artist” is a delightful homage to the silent film era, expertly blending nostalgia and innovation. Director Michel Hazanavicius’s decision to create a modern silent film is a bold and brilliant choice, capturing the magic of a bygone cinematic era. Jean Dujardin’s charismatic performance as the fading silent film star George Valentin is both charming and heartfelt, and Bérénice Bejo shines as the rising star Peppy Miller. The film’s black-and-white cinematography and evocative score transport audiences to the glamorous and romantic world of 1920s Hollywood, making “The Artist” a captivating and Oscar-worthy experience.
07. Frankenweenie (2012) : A Disney animation from the real Tim Burton!
“Frankenweenie” is a Tim Burton magic in light and shadow that combines his signature quirky style with heartwarming storytelling. This black-and-white stop-motion animation film takes a unique twist on the classic Frankenstein tale by centering it around a young boy and his resurrected pet dog. The film’s charming characters and creative visuals showcase Burton’s artistic prowess, making it a whimsical and endearing addition to his distinctive filmography. “Frankenweenie” is a family-friendly gothic tale that captures the essence of friendship and the power of love.
06. Ida (2013) : A real nun story (Full Movie on Youtube)
“Ida” is a hauntingly beautiful masterpiece that combines stunning black-and-white cinematography with a deeply moving narrative. Set in post-World War II Poland, the film follows a young novitiate’s journey of self-discovery as she uncovers family secrets. Director Paweł Pawlikowski’s meticulous attention to detail and the stellar performances of the cast create a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. “Ida” is a visually striking and emotionally profound exploration of identity and history, making it a must-see for cinephiles.
05. Cold War (2018) : A memorable love story from Polish cinema
“Cold War” (2018) is a cinematic gem that captivates the audience with its exceptional storytelling and stunning visuals. Directed by Paweł Pawlikowski, this Polish masterpiece is a powerful love story set against the backdrop of post-war Europe. The film’s black-and-white cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The performances by Joanna Kulig and Tomasz Kot are brilliant, and their on-screen chemistry is electric. “Cold War” is a haunting exploration of love, politics, and the enduring human spirit, making it a must-see for fans of artful, emotionally resonant cinema.
04. Belfast (2021) : An Irish Tale of Innocence
“Belfast” (2021) is a heartfelt and autobiographical masterpiece from director Kenneth Branagh. Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s in Northern Ireland, the film offers a poignant coming-of-age story that’s both nostalgic and universal. The cast, including young star Jude Hill and veterans like Jamie Dornan and Caitriona Balfe, deliver exceptional performances. The film’s evocative black-and-white cinematography beautifully captures the essence of the time. “Belfast” is a moving tribute to the power of family, community, and the indomitable human spirit, making it a must-watch for its emotional depth and historical resonance.
03. The Painted Bird (2019) : Brutally Honest About the Brutality of War
The Painted Bird” is a haunting and unflinching cinematic experience, adapted from Jerzy Kosiński’s controversial novel. Directed by Václav Marhoul, the film takes viewers on a harrowing journey through war-torn Eastern Europe during World War II, as seen through the eyes of a young boy. The black-and-white cinematography adds to the film’s stark and powerful visuals, intensifying the raw and brutal nature of the narrative.
02 . Embrace of the Serpent (2015): An Amazonian Visual Poem
“The Embrace of the Serpent” is a mesmerising and visually stunning exploration of indigenous cultures in the Amazon rainforest. Directed by Ciro Guerra, the film weaves two parallel narratives across different time periods, offering a unique and immersive storytelling experience. Its lush, monochromatic cinematography beautifully captures the natural beauty of the Amazon, adding to the film’s immersive quality.
The movie is a thought-provoking meditation on colonialism, spirituality, and the clash between tradition and modernity. With its haunting narrative and evocative atmosphere, “The Embrace of the Serpent” is a powerful and poetic work of cinema that leaves a lasting impression.
01 Turin Horse (2011): The Philosophical Endnote of Cinema & Bela Tarr
“The Turin Horse” is a cinematic tour de force that plunges viewers into a bleak and existential experience. Directed by Béla Tarr, this Hungarian film is a masterclass in minimalist storytelling and long-take cinematography. The narrative, based on the life of Friedrich Nietzsche and his alleged mental breakdown after witnessing the mistreatment of a horse, is a meditation on human existence and suffering.
About Yiyun Li‘s new lyrical novel ‘Where Reasons End’
Why a parent should never be a child’s biographer,” states Yiyun Li in her new conversational novel, “Where Reasons End.” The narrator converses with the spirit of her son, Nikolai, who passed away at 16 by suicide. A parent should never be tasked with burying their own child; nor should they have to deliver their child’s eulogy. The book overflows with love, empathy, and yearning.
Through a series of imagined dialogues with Nikolai, occurring in a tranquil space outside of time and reality, Li constructs a recollection of their relationship. These conversations are a delight to read, unfolding naturally with intimacy, playfulness, and affection. As mother and son converse, their words create a familiar dance of teasing, critique, disagreement, forgiveness, and an attempt to understand each other. Both voices are astute and precise, yet it’s impossible to overlook that these conversations are channelled by a grieving mother, as the child, Nikolai, is no more.
At one point, Nikolai reassures his mother, saying, “I love you so much,” and expressing his wish not to have hurt her. His mother responds, “Oh, I wouldn’t say that at all. What’s hurtful is life.” The book is replete with such exchanges, though this example leans more towards sentimentality. Overall, the topics explored by mother and child tend to be philosophical, sparse, and quixotic. Li references Buddhist tradition, where a departed soul lingers for 49 days before moving on to the next realm. While Li does not believe in superstitions, her concern arises when the 49-day mark arrives during her mourning, fearing Nikolai’s departure from their conversation. His continued presence reveals more about the author than the fictional character of Nikolai.
They reminisce about Nikolai’s talent and fondness for knitting, his childhood drawings, T-shirts, and dreams. They struggle to recall which Elizabeth Bishop poem he memorized in sixth grade, with the mother revealing letters from Nikolai’s friends after they learned he wouldn’t return to school. She laments that Nikolai might have found life more bearable if she could have taught him to enjoy the frivolous and relinquish his unwavering perfectionism, a trait shared by both mother and son.
Li also describes the new house she and Nikolai’s father moved into, their first Christmas tree without him, and her difficulty with writing. The conversation frequently returns to the subject of writing, where Nikolai emerges as his mother’s harshest critic. While Li often expresses feeling muddled, Nikolai remains clear and unwavering in his words, appearing as if they are enshrined by supernatural omniscience and calm that can only be found in the afterlife. The mother doubts herself and questions how she could have been a better parent, while Nikolai stands firm in his decision to leave the world.
This is the essence of grief—a mother grappling with the impossible, attempting to decipher cryptic riddles about the cost of existence and the permanence of eternity. She reflects on another idea that she frequently circles back to: “To love is to trespass,” especially in the context of the love between a parent and a child. Maternal affection may be an overwhelming trespass, laden with wishful expectations and too much hope, making hope itself a complicated emotion, according to Li.
In “Where Reasons End,” Li writes, “I always imagine writing is for people who don’t want to feel or don’t know how to.” She questions whether a person commits suicide because they don’t want to live or because they don’t know how to live. The narrative reflects on Li’s childhood experience when her mother compelled her to learn to knit with old, non-elastic yarn, a practice she loathed. Yet, after Nikolai’s death, she finds herself sitting in his room, knitting and unraveling, echoing a practice imposed on her by her mother—a detail she doesn’t delve into further in the book.
Li emphasizes writing throughout the novel, and despite her literary achievements, she contemplates whether dedicating her life to reading and writing has been a waste of time. She questions the value of her solitary hours and considers if writing has become a burdensome task, worse than endlessly knitting and unraveling the same spool of yarn. In the midst of her musings, Nikolai’s love for reading and knitting echoes throughout the narrative, albeit not explicitly. There is an unconscious yearning for the discipline instilled by her own mother—the significance of work, meditation, study, practice, and precision. The value of time well spent.
Accepting the merits of hard work from any mother is challenging, but even more so when considering Li’s own background. She was a child math prodigy raised among nuclear physicists and scientists. Li migrated to the United States to study immunology at the University of Iowa, as her parents desired. They set exceptionally high standards for her, and her intellectual accomplishments are genuinely impressive. She accidentally stumbled into the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop, switching her career path.
“Aesthetically, ‘Where Reasons End’ is an austere novel, with moments of substantial weight. However, some parts might feel redundant and repetitive, causing impatience in readers who question why the mother still dwells on her grief by page 82. This observation isn’t meant to be unkind but highlights the very insight Li is building towards—the notion that the gradual accumulation of small repetitions might hold value. It’s like muscles growing, a calendar filling up, or a scarf being knitted, then worn. Knit one, purl two. Page one, page two, page three. Through these meditative circles around impossible questions—Why did my child not want to live?—Li inches closer to understanding, offering some solace or the tiniest respite from her anguish and confusion.
Li also ponders, “How can I teach myself to want to live?” A question not for a mathematician but for an artist, a monastic nun, or a high temple priestess. To discover the answer, Li must engage with the departed. She’s hesitant to ask, aware that as the author, she is the sole source of the answer. In this novel, the mother seeks answers from her son, or more accurately, from his grave. She asks, and she listens attentively.
Near the end of the book, she remarks, “Eavesdropping used to be a crime.” To this, Nikolai reminds her of the times he’s heard her repeat this in her talks and lectures, saying, “Writing fiction is to eavesdrop on your characters’ hearts,” borrowing her own words. Li realises that she will never make that remark about eavesdropping again; it would sadden her. She is uncertain whether she has probed too deeply into Nikolai’s heart—trespassed, stolen, loved excessively—or if it’s the other way around, with Nikolai learning from her, his mother. This thought brings her happiness, however fleeting it may be.
Ultimately, “Where Reasons End” stands as a remarkable feat of empathy. Despite Li’s personal caution against parents writing about their children, she has harnessed something profoundly genuine and potent. Her empathy and courage are what make the book truly resonate. Anyone who has yearned to converse once more with someone who has departed will find comfort within these pages.”
Food in fiction, whether it is symbolic or utilitarian, moves the plot forward but ever you stopped reading and craved for something just went through on the pages or …uh?
Most writers use food descriptions in stories for a non-food purpose. But here I try to show you some snippets where the moment of great writing unlocks ‘story’ in the food.
The kitchen smells of yeast, a nostalgic smell. It reminds me of other kitchens, kitchens that were mine. It smells of mothers; … It smells of me, in former times, when I was a mother
Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid’s Tale
At noon I had lunch and went to the supermarket. There I bought food for dinner and, from a sale table, bought detergent, tissues, and toilet paper. At home again, I made preparations for dinner and lay down on the sofa with a book, waiting for Kumiko to come home … Not that I had any great feast in mind: I would be stir frying thin slices of beef, onions, green peppers, and bean sprouts with a little salt, pepper, soy sauce, and a splash of beer—a recipe from my single days. The rice was done, the miso soup was warm, and the vegetables were all sliced and arranged in separate piles in a large dish, ready for the wok.
The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, by Haruki Murakami
We had eaten a tamal de elote—a fine semolina of sweet corn, that is, with ground pork and very hot pepper, all steamed in a bit of corn-husk—and then chiles en nogada, which were reddish brown, somewhat wrinkled little peppers, swimming in a walnut sauce whose harshness and bitter aftertaste were downed in a creamy, sweetish surrender.
Under the Jaguar Sun, by Italo Calvino
I loved the no-carb ricotta pancake I invented last year, which can be cooked only on Teflon … Beat one egg, add one-third cup fresh whole-milk ricotta, and whisk together. Heat up a Teflon pan until carcinogenic gas is released into the air. Spoon tablespoons of batter into the frying pan and cook about two minutes on one side, until brown. Carefully flip. Cook for another minute to brown the other side. Eat with jam, if you don’t care about carbs, or just eat unadorned. Serves one.
I Remember Nothing: And Other Reflections, by Nora Ephron
Mechanically, weary after a dull day with the prospect of a depressing morrow, I raised to my lips a spoonful of the tea in which I had soaked a morsel of the cake. No sooner had the warm liquid, and the crumbs with it, touched my palate than a shudder ran through my whole body, and I stopped, intent upon the extraordinary changes that were taking place. An exquisite pleasure had invaded my senses, but individual, detached, with no suggestion of its origin. And at once the vicissitudes of life had become indifferent to me, its disasters innocuous, its brevity illusory … I had ceased now to feel mediocre, accidental, mortal. Whence could it have come to me, this all-powerful joy?
India’s premier Heavy Metal festival, Bangalore Open Air announced their lineup for 2024 which is happening on February 9th and 10th in Bits Club, Hennur, Bangalore.
This year the festival sees the India debut of Swedish metal band In Flames. After 12 years, Thrash metal veterans Kreator returns to thrill us this Feb. Polish death metal band Decapitated also performs in the festival.
ANKOR is an alternative metal band based in Catalonia (Spain) with female front singer/screamer Jessie Williams (Bristol, UK), drummer Eleni Nota (Athens, Greece), guitarist/singers David Romeu, Fito Martinez and bassist Julio López.
Burning Witches
Burning Witches is a Swiss heavy/power metal band based in Brugg, Aargau
Chronic Xorn
Chronic Xorn, is a metal band, based in Kolkata, India. Chronic Xorn started in 2008, and shot to prominence after being featured in October 2009 in Headbanger’s India.
Decapitated
Decapitated is a Polish death metal band formed in Krosno in 1996. The group comprises guitarist, founder and composer Wacław “Vogg” Kiełtyka, vocalist Rafał Piotrowski, bassist Paweł Pasek and drummer James Stewart.
In flames
In Flames is a Swedish heavy metal band, formed by guitarist Jesper Strömblad in Gothenburg in 1990. Alongside At the Gates and Dark Tranquillity, In Flames pioneered the genres known as Swedish death metal and melodic death metal.
Kreator
Kreator is a German thrash metal band from Essen, formed in 1982. Their current lineup consists of lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Miland “Mille” Petrozza, drummer Jürgen “Ventor” Reil, lead guitarist Sami Yli-Sirniö, and bassist Frédéric Leclercq.
Moral Collapse
Moral Collapse is an old school extreme metal project founded in 2020 by N Arun (label head of Subcontinental Records) alongside Hannes Grossmann (ex Necrophagist, Obscura, Blotted science) and Sudarshan Mankad.
Watain
Watain is a Swedish black metal band, formed in 1998. The band’s name is taken from an early recording by the American black metal group Von. The band have become famous for their Theistic Satanist views and for their live shows which involve pyrotechnics, candles, Satanic rituals, animal carcasses, and blood.
Zygnema
Zygnema is a four piece Heavy/Thrash Groove Metal band from India (Mumbai)
Speed Trip
Speedtrip is a Heavy Metal band from Bangalore, formed in 2015
Bangalore Open Air is India’ss premier Heavy Metal festival, serving as the subcontinent’s ultimate destination for fans of this intense and powerful genre. Established in 2012, the festival has become an annual pilgrimage for metal enthusiasts, not just from India but from across the world. Located in the tech-hub city of Bangalore, the festival encapsulates the ethos “By Metalheads, For Metalheads” offering a unique blend of international and local acts.
The festival has grown organically over the years without corporate backing, drawing a dedicated audience of approximately 4,000 fans each year. Despite its size, which is modest compared to mainstream music festivals, Bangalore Open Air has an outsized cultural impact. It serves as a vital platform for both established and emerging artists in the heavy metal genre, offering fans a curated experience unlike any other in the country.
Financially self-sustained and community-driven, Bangalore Open Air epitomizes the rebellious spirit and unity that heavy metal music stands for. The festival has resisted commercialization, focusing instead on creating an authentic experience. With tickets priced competitively and additional revenue generated through food and beverage sales, the festival has managed to secure its financial viability year after year.
As India’s sole standard-bearer for Rock and Heavy Metal music on such a scale, Bangalore Open Air is more than just an event; it is a celebration of a subculture, a gathering of like-minded souls, and a testament to the enduring allure of heavy metal.
