Manny's Blog

Hallow's Eve

2010-12-23T14:33:00.000-08:00

A guest performance with The Mercs this past Halloween.

Epic African Posters

2010-12-23T14:25:00.000-08:00

I don't know what I Googled this time, but I found these amazing hand painted movie posters from Africa. What do I have to do to get this quality of work?

Please, enjoy.

These are too good.

Alien in the Sky

2010-12-23T14:19:00.000-08:00

Just some interent randomness. How I stumbled on this image I don't really know.

Give It To Me

2010-07-24T01:59:00.000-07:00

Deathly Hallows

2010-06-29T21:52:00.000-07:00

Trailer Property of Warner Bros.
Copyright 2010

Epic!

Late Saturday Night

2010-06-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hallows Eve Property of the Mercs
Copyright 2010

June 26, 2010 might be the most eventful night I've lived since I've been back in East L.A.

Three events, all completely unrelated, but all typical for a late Saturday night.

3X3

2010-06-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

Each term Art Center has a really great lecture series with three design professionals. I've had the privilege of attending two now. They are great catalysts for inspiring and informing young designers. Practical in a word. Which we all need sometimes. Not just a slideshow of a career. That's what books are for.

Gold Drapes

2010-06-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

Commercial Property of AT&T
Copyright 2010

During my stint at Chaffey Community College I took an Art History course where I discovered the art of Christo and Jeanne-Claude. Time passed and I forgot. Unknowingly I rediscovered their work on TV. An AT&T commercial where giant gold blankets are being draped over buildings and other large structures. It's very beautiful and pretty extraordinary (the same reaction I had almost 6 years ago when I discovered Valley Curtain).

Image Property of Harry Shunk
Copyright 1972

Live

2010-06-21T21:46:00.001-07:00

The things that happen when you're in search of a public toilet.

Per Your Request

2010-06-19T13:30:00.000-07:00

In the last few months I've really let myself go. Just very unkempt. No one wants to be rude, so no one says anything. Although there is always that one person who you can count on to be honest; cause they care.

Repeat

2010-06-19T08:34:00.000-07:00

One More

2010-06-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

Image Property of the NBA
Copyright 2010

The Lakers destroyed the Celtics in game 6 of the Finals to play a game 7 on Thursday June 17th at 6PM on ABC.

82 regular season games, 3 rounds of the NBA Playoffs and 6 Finals games are all behind both the Celtics and the Lakers.

It all comes down to one last game.

GO LAKERS!

Futbol

2010-06-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
9" x 12"

Sometimes one gol changes everything.

World Cup soccer for the next month!

Deep Down

2010-06-08T04:14:00.000-07:00

Q. If you managed to escape an uncharted cave with mutated albino cave creatures, why would you go back?

Image Property of Celador Films
Copyright 2009

A. For more blood, guts and gore.

The Descent: Part 2 is not all that the first film was, but it's worth your time. It's a decent attempt at extending the story of cave divers and all around bad ass women, Sarah and Juno, respectively.

iPhone 4

2010-06-07T16:11:00.000-07:00

I WANT IT!

Image Property of Apple
Copyright 2010

The new Apple iPhone 4.

Plummet

2010-06-05T01:12:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Scrape TV
Copyright 2008

Last night I had this dream that I was riding down this hill and it was dark and rainy and completely abandoned. I realize no one is driving when the car spins out of control and flips off the side of the road. Free falling towards the bottom I wake up. It was absolutely terrifying. I woke up and felt so alone, about as isolated and frightened as I did in my dream. There's no way to really describe the dread I felt last night.

What does it mean to fall and die in your sleep? Why was there no driver?

Give Thanks

2010-05-31T15:02:00.000-07:00

Having family in the military myself, I'd just like to thank them for sacrificing themselves and their time to do what they think is right.

Video Property of Rise Against
Copyright 2010

We miss you Chris! Wish you could have spent the day with us at the beach.

Object

2010-05-24T10:36:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Sony
Copyright 2006

Today I woke up and put into my Playstation 3 a DVD disc with the documentary Objectified on it.

Please, please, watch this film if you haven't already.

There are a hundred things I could begin to say after the 85m mins. I spent with the documentary, but the one idea it triggered in me most, was the idea of design and self-expression or form over function.

Yesterday, while some friends and I watched the Laker game on TV, someone requested we play Street Fighter IV after the game. Nagging quickly ensued. Everyone had complaints over their effectiveness at winning all due to the game controller in use. Most of us argued that the Microsoft controller was too big and clunky and was very restricting, in terms of what we could and could not do in game. We all came to the consensus that we preferred Sony's Dualshock 3 controller to its Microsoft counterpart. But why?

Because it functions. The user never even notices that the controller is what it is because they don't have to. The invisibility of the pad makes them engage with the software they're using and helps them to never disengage until they themselves are ready. You pick up and play.

It's my presumption that Sony hit the nail in the head when it comes to game controller design. If it were up to me, there would be no other option on the market. It's so well designed in fact, that third party developers have used it as the model for their more affordable options. Even the Microsoft pad has a similar design, although it's different enough to not be presumed a copy.

Ever since it's debut for the Playstation in 1995 the form of the controller has seen very minimal change, all of which came based on necessity towards function.

So why is it not the standard?

Because in the end all that matters is fashion.

We all want a means to differentiate ourselves and be individual.

Not just the end user, but the designer.

As humans we have a need for self expression.

Jose prefers his Xbox 360 and I prefer my PS3. What do they say about us? Essentially that I prefer things to be less complicated. In gaming, Sony is the Apple of its industry.

Take something as simple as a toothbrush and weigh your options.

How many times can we redesign the chair?

We can redesign it endlessly, because as people we are constantly evolving and changing, and one chair for us could never last a lifetime nor could it tell the story of us.

Illusions / Delusions

2010-05-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

Greetings

2010-05-20T09:40:00.000-07:00

From Copenhagen.

Yesterday I received a copy of Designing Water's Future a small book produced for the INDEX: | AIGA Aspen Design Challenge. A challenge where Michelle and I were one of seven finalists out of 250 international entrees for our project Rethink Your Green.

I'm in print!

Actually not the first time, but this feels more official.

Jay

2010-05-20T09:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you Netflix.

Last night and this morning I finally had the opportunity to view the Jay McCarroll documentary Eleven Minutes. You know, the first winner of Project Runway?

First off, I loved the film, even if it brought with it feelings of anxiety I haven't felt since the CalArts graphic design show. Secondly, it taught me that fashion is something better suited for a schizophrenic (it seems you have to be everywhere and nowhere all at once). I'm too emotional for such a loveless world of fashion. Third, it had me contemplating what it means to be inspired and how exactly that inspiration is manifest in the work you create. Can you really just say, "My collection is inspired by vaginal discharge." and Archigram and hot air balloons? Where does the circus of inspiration end? In the end it seemed like the collection was at it's core inspired by Japanese culture. Tokyo? Finally, the collection itself was incoherent and unexciting, it really just felt, blah. Too bad, because the small and tight collection created for the finale of Season 1 of Project Runway I thought was amazing.

Downtown

2010-05-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Images Property of SKINGRAFT
Copyright 2010

Friday I was asked to come in and freelance at The Groop in downtown L.A. While I waited for approximately two hours to start my day I noticed a small boutique, SKINGRAFT. Inside were clothes I know would excite some women, add to that amazing window displays that are spectacular and you have yourself quite the spectacle. It's too bad I didn't snap a shot of the wonderful world through the glass.

If you're ever in the neighborhood, stop by. The clothes are fabulous and it's worth it to experience the boutique and all the great shops and galleries down on Spring St.

Need some more culture? Walk a block west to Broadway and catch a glimpse of Little México.

CalArts BFA Show

2010-05-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight at CalArts is the BFA design show.

ILLUSIONS / DELUSIONS

Yes, the BFA show, not the department show.

Go check it out.

Denim

2010-05-11T16:22:00.000-07:00

Image Property of NYLON guys
Copyright 2010

Recently on a shopping trip with Michelle I picked up some reading material, notably the recent NYLON guys. You can see Gerard Way with a very awesome vintage denim. Inspired I picked up my own Levis denim jacket and I'm really excited to have it.

When I have a decent camera and someone to shoot me, I'll post picks.

But for now, enjoy this cover image.

Cemetery Jog

2010-05-05T13:02:00.000-07:00

Lately I've told myself that I really need to get out more.

Today I got out and ran, well, jogged.

East L.A. has a jogging trail around the cemetery just a few blocks from my new home. I walked out and ran till I could barely breathe. Today was cool and there was a nice breeze, so not bad for a noon jog.

Michelle gave me a pair of running shoes a few years ago now, and I intend to finally wear them out.

Such a lovely view.

Gentle

2010-05-04T11:08:00.000-07:00

An unkempt nail is bad enough down there.

Images Property of New Line Cinema
Copyright 1984 and 2010

Sunday I visited Michelle in Pasadena.

After leaving the Sierra Madre Villa station we met for lunch, a trip to the mall and a movie.

A Nightmare on Elm St. was not at all the disappointment I assumed it would be. It provided some much needed scares.

18 To 26

2010-04-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

Stumbling across my high school graduation photos, it made me feel like I've gone so far, but nowhere at all. I need to take one step forward now and really move. No more jogging in place. Life is a marathon and I intend to finish it.

Underneath

2010-04-19T17:09:00.001-07:00

Aggression

2010-04-06T13:46:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
5" x 4.5"

Not since November have I had the opportunity to sit down and make a new illustration. Definitely picking up where I left off, but revisiting an old tradition seems like a good way to transition into some new territory. The next series of illustrations will see a new light.

Outside

2010-04-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Inside

2010-03-26T16:39:00.001-07:00

Division

2010-03-25T20:47:00.000-07:00

Video and Image Property of Joy Division
Copyright 1980

Sometimes a mesmerizing image and a heartfelt song are all you need.

El Barrio

2010-03-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

After a whole week of settling in, today is my first blog post in my new place.

Where am I? Brooklyn Heights in East Los Angeles.

Yes, I am officially back in my hometown of East LA. It's been approximately 16 years since I've lived here, and now I'm back. In the short week I've been here I've experienced just about everything I remember from my childhood, earthquake included. This should make for some very interesting stories.

Giant

2010-03-09T19:33:00.001-08:00

Image Property of Mike Giant
Copyright 2009

For a long time now, I've been very captivated by the work of Mike Giant. Especially his illustrations of homegirls and their tattoos. It's not so much the content, as it is the technique, that seems so alluring.

Looking Back

2010-03-08T19:09:00.000-08:00

From time to time I sit around and just look at old photos. The photos serve as a means to just kind of remind myself of the innocent and optimistic boy I once was, and know, that at my core, that's still who I really am today.

Consistently knocked down, I kept my spirits high because I thought tomorrow would be a better day and aside from my current state, life was good, but also uncomplicated.

There may have been some naiveté, but at least I was happy.

Now I have to work for what I want and know that nothing is guaranteed, and that not only scares me, but makes me unhappy.

Sunday Afternoon

2010-03-08T07:43:00.000-08:00

Image Property of The Museum of Jurassic Technology
Copyright 1996-2006

Yesterday Michelle and I drove down to Culver City to visit the Museum of Jurassic Technology, this trip had been a long time coming, we actually meant to visit last spring, but busy with everything we never made it.

If you live in southern California or are ever in the area, I recommend you stop by.

It's not for me to try and describe what you'll see, but for you to experience it for yourself.

No Return

2010-03-06T18:38:00.000-08:00

Image Property of Neil McAllister
Copyright 1997

During the mid-'90s the Misfits made their return from the dead, with new lead singer Michael Graves and drummer Dr. Chud. As a tribute to the resurrection of the band, fan Neil McAllister produced the artwork seen above. They loved the illustration so much they actually used it on their first European tour.

It's funny actually, this image seems to represent the transformation the band underwent not only musically, but visually. Imagery for album covers and the like never really felt as gritty as they did during the band's inception. Everything seemed a little soft around the edges or over produced.

Video Property of the Misfits
Copyright 1997

Death Comes Ripping

2010-03-05T14:25:00.000-08:00

Images Property of Kristian Hammerstad
Copyright 2009

Months ago when I first got my blog up and running I discovered this amazing illustrator on BEAUTIFUL/DECAY and was really inspired by his work. Great technique surged by blazing color, while decidedly staying in a very comic book sort of area.

The aesthetic is obviously retro, but the sense of humor is clearly contemporary, and while most people would say it's nostalgic, it's very clearly a voice of today. Even if the work follows in the footsteps of artists like Raymond Pettibon or Pushead; using youthful energy to drive the image.

Never Sleep

2010-03-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

Video Property of Nike
Copyright 2010

Recently Nike put out an ad with Dwyane Wade for their Air Jordan 2010 series sneakers. This ad is great, and Nike consistently puts out great campaigns for their products. They are definitely one of those corporations that knows, good design sells.

This makes me want to buy a pair of Air Jordans. If it would make me bigger, badder and scarier, then yes, I would like these shoes.

You Are

2010-03-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

I have no idea who did this or where it's from, but a friend sent it to me and I think it's hilarious.

Destination...

2010-03-02T14:23:00.000-08:00

Images Property of Justinvg
Copyright 2010

While scanning the pages of Geek Central Station I happened upon this set of amazing Star Wars posters. Each for a planet or moon in the Star Wars universe. Design conscious travel agency a long time ago, in a galaxy far far away...

Not much is said about the designer who made these, except that you can view his work on his Flickr page.

These posters could easily fit in at Disneyland's Star Tours attraction, although there is something I love about the old 80s posters already on display.

This or That

2010-03-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

Images Property of Toby Ng
Copyright 2010

During my search for the Creep poster set I came cross another set of posters for the London Horror Film Festival.

Now, while I like the idea, I will say that I don't think they're the most amazing pieces of design.

Basically the posters were meant to show the dichotomy of a horror movie viewing experience; a dichotomy of extreme opposites.

White Nooka

2010-03-01T16:11:00.001-08:00

Only one other time in my life have I owned a watch. It was a little black plastic "waterproof" watch that my mom got me from the grocery store. By the way, it wasn't waterproof at all. Really tragic for an 8 year old.

The second watch I've ever owned is this just arrived beautiful white Nooka watch I bought online from my very first sample sale. Actually, the latter isn't true, this is my second sample sale purchase. I bought Michelle a stunning silk Thomas Wilde dress for her birthday two summers ago. I digress.

I really love my new watch.

Adidas Originals

2010-03-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Images and Video Property of adidas America Inc.
Copyright 2010

As of January 2010 Adidas Originals has released its line of Star Wars inspired sneakers and apparel. How or why I'm just hearing about this is beyond me and makes me very sad indeed. All the best pairs of sneakers are already gone and on eBay for the small asking price of $200 a pair, a $120 mark-up.

But, there is some hope. I could win the Lotto?

I'm just merely trying to remain optimistic for my own sake, I want, no need, a pair of the AT-AT sneakers right away. Another pair of shoes to add to my wish list; I'm still hoping for the Nike SB Boba Fett Dunks.

Creep

2010-02-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Images Property of Face37
Copyright 2010

Recently while visiting Gallery Nucleus in Alhambra I came across the book Design: Play and discovered in it a set of posters that I just absolutely fell in love with. The set were for a Horror Film Festival in Manchester, England called Creep. The festival featured all the usual fare, but the posters were just a little bit more than what you would expect for the genre.

Done in the Swiss style, it's not exactly what you would expect for a horror festival, but they're effective. Not necessarily for their typography but their simple gimmick of revealing an image of any particular film's iconic killer. When the lights go out, the glow in the dark screen printing ink reveals a glowing menacing face peering back at you. Very cinematic if I do say so, although it's not exactly where the designer was looking to connote the idea. His hope was that cropped type at the top and bottom would help you refer to scrolling credits at the end of a movie, but it turns out that the image appearing after turning down the lights comes off more as the opening of any movie experience.

Safe

2010-02-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Almost two weeks ago now, Michelle's sister had herself a birthday party that was running the theme of Michael Jackson. She asked everyone to dress up as their favorite Michael, and I realized I don't really have one. Aside from that, I didn't really think I was cut out to try and impersonate the King of Pop. Quickly I came up with this. Not a lot of thought went into the construction of my mask, in fact, all I wanted was to stick little toy animals on my face. The rest I never really thought about, and the results are remedial at best. In any event, this mask is what happens when you don't plan ahead and make things on a whim.

Hair Did

2010-02-20T16:03:00.000-08:00

After almost a year without a haircut, I finally decided to go out and do something drastic. Not really sure what this is, but I like it. Seems to actually fit me well. Excited to see what I'll do next time.

Rejected

2009-11-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

Pen Drawing
8.5" x 11"

While in the aforementioned process of updating my website I removed two pieces of work that I found more suitable to post here on the blog. There were meant to be more drawings than just these two, but I never went back to that particular sketchbook. Maybe I'll revisit that set soon?

Dark Knight

2009-11-20T09:21:00.000-08:00

Graphite Pencil Drawing
6" x 8.75"

It's been fifteen days since my last post, but it's for good reason. I've been very occupied with rebuilding my website. Though in that time, I did find a drawing I really have no recollection of ever doing. Okay, maybe some vague memory, but I like it enough to post it now.

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

...a Vampire

2009-11-05T16:43:00.000-08:00

Digital Illustration
7.25" x 7.25"

Like the wolfman, vampires are also guilty of taking your woman and making her lunch or their sex slave. Whatever the circumstance, I'm sure this is not going to fly, but with these simple steps you'll have her back at your place in no time. So get out your baptismal gift set and get ready to take care of that alluring man that comes at night, in just two quick and easy steps.

STEP 1 - Take the stake from your gift set.
STEP 2 - Pierce the vampire's heart.

It's that simple, of course, I'm assuming you have found the secret location of the vampire's coffin, you have without a doubt made sure he is a vampire and you have the courage to carry out this task.

...a Werewolf

2009-11-04T12:55:00.000-08:00

Digital Illustration
7.25" x 7.25"

Ever wonder how to get rid of that pesky wolfman that is constantly eating up your dates?

Well, if you have, here are four easy steps to getting rid of your wolf problem, while at the same time making use of that handgun and silver bullet gift set.

STEP 1 - Load the gun with a silver bullet.
STEP 2 - Find the wolf, he may seem scared, he's not.
STEP 3 - Engage your target and take aim.
STEP 4 - Shoot him through the heart. Don't worry about your aim, if you're hero enough it'll be a perfect shot.

There you have it. In four easy steps you have just put yourself that much closer to rounding third and heading for home. No more girl snatching wolf.

How To Kill...

2009-11-04T12:39:00.000-08:00

After Halloween I became fixated with the idea of werewolves, more importantly how to kill one. Incapable of getting the idea out of my head I decided to do something that would cure my itch. The idea is to make a how to guide on killing horrific creatures. First of which is the werewolf. Despite the fact that there already exist a similar idea, a book, How to Survive a Horror Movie by Seth Grahame-Smith, I thought I'd give it a shot.

With a simple infographic you'll be able to solve all your problems of walking dead and other creatures of the night.

Enjoy.

Post Halloween

2009-11-02T19:43:00.001-08:00

This Halloween was a chance for me to do what I had done every year before. Pull an outfit out of the old closet, add a new piece and make it work. Although I was completely unsuccessful in the past, I was determined to do it right this time.

With a little bit of make-up, fake blood and a prosthetic nose I transformed into a werewolf. By far my best attempt at a Halloween costume. Gone are the Waynes, Alex the Larges and B-Movie Aliens of years past, now it was time to make it work. The result it seemed was effective and makes me hopeful for next year's Halloween and plans for a bigger, better costume are in the works.

An explanation - Werewolves are supposed to either maul their victim or bite them, leaving them forever cursed to be as their attacker. Michelle and I changed it up and she was my victim turned zombie. It's not like she was just going to lay around dead the whole night.

Halloween

2009-10-31T08:45:00.000-07:00

It is October 31st and officially Halloween.

I'm excited for today, cause I actually have a costume idea. I won't say what it is, but I'll post pictures come Monday morning. The last few years have been, well, less than spectacular (see above). I have yet to get back to the quality of my Batman costume. The sad thing is that I actually plan ahead for Halloween and things just never quite come together.

Serial Silence

2009-10-30T10:42:00.001-07:00

Micron Drawing
5" x 5"

This is the last image in a set of three with Ed Gein in common.

Silence of the Lambs, although it made Hannibal a pop-culture icon, it was Buffalo Bill who was the real culprit in this film. It's debatable on how much Hannibal is modeled after Ed Gein, but there's no doubt that Bill definitely was.

Like the two other movies in this series, Silence of the Lambs built a franchise that never quite lived up to the original. Although I personally feel that the sequels here are far more tolerable than those of the other franchises, with the exception of Hannibal. Wow that was not so good.

It puts the lotion on its skin or else it gets the hose again.

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

Serial Psycho

2009-10-29T22:48:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
4" x 6"

This is the second of three sets with the common Ed Gein thread.

What can I really say about this film? Psycho speaks for itself. It's Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece and not only a horror movie icon, but an American classic. Too bad this franchise was made into films that eventually put Norman confessing his sins to a late night talk radio show. Seriously, it seems a little absurd. That's like putting Leatherface in a situation where he's talking to Dr. Phil.

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

Aliens vs. Predator

2009-10-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

Images Property of ign.com
Copyright 2009

All I have to say is, holy s**t.

If this isn't reason to own a PS3 I don't know what is.

On ign.com today they posted an article previewing the new Alien Vs. Predator game coming out early 2010 on the PS3, more specifically the multiplayer, which I heard was amazing in the originals. I always wanted to, but never got to, play the PC AVP and AVP2, now I have the opportunity to play what looks to be light years away from those classics, in terms of graphics. Let's just hope the gameplay is what I expect it once was.

Seriously, I need a PS3.

Serial Massacre

2009-10-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
4" x 6"

When I started the Saw series I wanted to continue doing sets of drawings that depicted famous horror movie franchises, but I was finding it difficult to find anything I really wanted to do. Solely due to the fact that I haven't seen many complete franchises. Why? Most franchises ride on the success of the original and, sadly for horror, produce an immense amount of crap. Never more has the terrible sequel(s) been true.

This is the first of three sets that will have a common thread running throughout. The three sets are going to use the three films loosely based on American serial killer Ed Gein. The other commonality, they all spawned terrible franchises, not just a sequel or two. Funny too, cause all three of these films are classics.

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

Pennywise

2009-10-23T12:49:00.001-07:00

Color Pencil Drawing
8.5" x 11"

Recently I was shuffling through an old folder of mine with some drawings I had done for Art in high school. I would like to take this time to say, holy s**t that was 8 years ago, it was 2001, but I digress. What I found was the image you see up above, an illustration of Pennywise the dancing clown from the TV miniseries It. Personally I've never had a real fear of clowns, but it is definitely the exception.

It is quite possibly one of my favorite things to watch as a kid. I attempted to read Stephen King's novel, but just holding the 1,000 plus page book was intimidating.

This drawing might be my best use of color pencil. I don't typically do anything like this, solely because I just love simple line drawings. Above all else, I don't have a strong grip on shading. This isn't too bad, is it?

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

Wild Thing

2009-10-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

Video Property of Walt Disney Pictures
Copyright 1983

While on the lookout for something new to draw I found this.

It's a 1983 motion test for a CGI/Animated feature of Where The Wild Things Are.

Before I say anything else I'll just say that this is, to my knowledge, completely amazing for 1983. I didn't even know a computer could generate anything beyond an 8 Bit black and white image (in some cases black and green) in the early 80s. WOW!

Apparently, at one time Disney owned the rights to the classic children's book and was planning on releasing a hybrid film. Why this never came to pass, I don't know. Maybe it's better that way though, cause even this test just has a little bit too much of that Disney touch.

Isolation

2009-10-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Blumhouse Productions
Copyright 2007

This past Sunday Michelle and I went to the movies to see the new film Paranormal Activity. Similar to The Blair Witch Project the movie was done on an almost non existent budget, but looks to make a whole lot more. Also, like The Blair Witch Project the film is shot in that shaky cam style that films like Cloverfield tried to cash in on. Unlike Cloverfield though, this film convincingly uses less as a whole lot more.

The story basically picks up on Micah's recent camcorder purchase to capture his girlfriend Katie's recent unexplained occurrences. Occurrences that we learn have haunted her since her early childhood. These strange phenomena don't just jump out the first minute we begin watching, but roll out slowly as you get to know the characters and their haunting story.

This is what I think the film does nicely, establishing mood. Everything seems relatable and authentic. The cuts of home footage don't seem unlike something you and your family might have shot yourself. The environment is also to my knowledge very authentic and not a Hollywood set. You feel like you've been there or could have lived there. The last thing the film uses extremely well and to its advantage is isolation and claustrophobia. The couple is pretty much alone the entire film, only once or twice does a friend stop in and make a visit and aside from the paranormal investigator no one is ever in the house with them. Except for one shot early on, you never see the rest of the neighborhood or any of the neighbors. Not only are you isolated from what you see, but what you hear. There is no ambient sound, which you don't realize at first, but notice once you begin to analyze the film. It's just the couple and the entity who provide the audio.

With a very relatable and authentic set up you then get very simple and terrifying scares. The intensity raises a few levels every progressing night of the experience. Some nights it's not as bad as the last, but it's definitely not any better and eventually it just gets worse. All the events take place at night, but eventually move into the day. Making things just that much more scary. The experiences are subtle and effective. Never over the top and never too elaborate. Without giving anything away, the haunting or demonic infestation or possession or whatever you want to call it is very real. The sights and sounds are what you come to expect of such an event. It's what you hear from accounts of any paranormal activity. The phenomenon
escalates from mundane to very supernatural, but with a natural progression. As you watch you begin to feel this impending doom and that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Sunday's viewing was the first time I had a unified audience experience. If someone jumped we all did. We all held our breath together and eventually let go with relief. It was like being around a camp fire and hearing a spooky story, you know, where you jump at the end. Although I never experienced that being from LA. This movie may be the closest I come to being led around like a Cub Scout.

Vader

2009-10-15T21:34:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing & Digital Illustration
8.5" x 11"

Per request. The Dark Lord of the Sith. Darth Vader.

...I Am...

2009-10-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing & Digital Illustration
8.5" x 11"

Nothing is more painful than knowing that the Dark Lord of the Sith is your father. How f***ed up, I mean really. You just dedicated two weeks of your life to defeating the Empire and then you have this s**t laid on you. Not only do you get the worst news of your life, but you lose a hand for it. No justice for Luke here. I guess it was the Empire who struck back in this movie anyway. Vader revealing to Luke, I am your father, was maybe one of the best twists ever. Leia being his sister, not so much.

In any event I needed to attempt to do something different and here it is. Space and geometry the current guilty pleasure. I don't mind doing it for this piece, just cause it doesn't really matter.

Amigurumi?

2009-10-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

On the hunt for some inspiration I found this. I don't particularly know what these are besides awesome (I can't even pronounce, amigurumi).

The man behind these cute little...uh...yarn people is Sammi Resendes and you can check these and a lot more geeky fandom out by heading over to his fun blog where there are things I never thought possible.

Just For You

2009-10-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

Images Property of Non-Format
Copyright 2009

Today was the day I saw something I didn't think I'd see.

When visiting the Non-Format site I came across a recent cover and opening spread piece they did for Print magazine. The cover was a man being tattooed with the phrase "I Made This" and the corresponding spread ended with "Just For You". This strikes a chord in me because of a piece I produced for a student show at Chaffey College that simply read, just for you. The piece was a play on language, viewer and artist relationships, culture, and class. It was intended to create a dialogue about why we do anything. Is it just for you or is it just for me or neither or both? What are our true intentions and do they really matter?

Dead

2009-10-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing & Digital Color
5" x 7"

Recently I watched Shaun of the Dead again. Michelle had yet to see it, so I thought it would be nice for her to check it out. She really enjoyed it.

During this maybe third or fourth viewing I began to realize just how clever the social commentary is, on a few levels. One of which is simply, through routine and repetition in our daily lives we kind of already are zombies. Secondly, the fact that we are all kind of oblivious to the goings on in our world. If there were some zombie infestation, just how many of us would know it right away? The last thing I feel a personal connection to is Shaun's need to have to break out of his routine. This happens but only under extreme circumstances, and that shouldn't have to be the case. Just realize the need for change.

Saw

2009-10-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing & Digital Color
5" x 7"

The other day I began thinking to myself how can I make things a little different? I came to the conclusion that maybe instead of one drawing I make a series of drawings for any particular film franchise. The first franchise I decided to focus on was Saw.

Above are just traps from the first five films, Billy and the antagonist Jigsaw.

To be perfectly honest I really do enjoy the Saw series, but at this point I haven't been able to keep up with the ever evolving story. As a pure horror film it's fun and entertaining. How the plot grows from movie to movie I couldn't tell you. There are too many constant twists and surprises to keep track of.

And to be honest, I think seeing all the traps in a sequence at the Hollywood Horror Nights' maze might have had something to do with my decision to do this.

Tricks

2009-10-07T21:12:00.000-07:00

Pen Drawing & Digital Illustration
11" x 17"

An anthology of horror.

Halloween has many tricks 'n treats for everyone.

Sometimes things aren't quite what they seem.

Trick 'R Treat

2009-10-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

Poster & Images Property of Warner Bros. Entertainment
Copyright 2009

Last night, Michelle and I were out and we thought maybe we'd swing by Blockbuster and pick up a couple of movies. I was wandering around not really seeing anything too exciting and then Michelle suggested we watch Trick 'R Treat. Never heard of it, but she had seen the preview and was excited about seeing it. Not expecting anything special, I actually really enjoyed this movie. It is in the vain of movies like Creepshow
and a non-linear story in the fashion of Tarantino. I don't want to give anything away, so I'll just say there were good twists and good scares. I actually was a little scared getting into my car this morning and had to take a peak in the back to make sure I was riding home with any unwanted passengers.

HHN Documentation

2009-10-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

Our group photo from Halloween Horror Nights last Friday.

This was us on our way out after exiting the Saw maze.

I really do want to visit one more time this year.

Panic

2009-10-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

Pen Drawing & Digital Illustration
11" x 17"

Michelle and I running scared from the hoards of undead at Halloween Horror Nights as we made our exit. Exhausted and worn down, there was sheer panic hearing 15 chainsaws all explode in a sound of fury. We ran scared and lost a few in our party, but thankfully they made it out alive.

You don't know what you're capable of until you are put in unordinary situations.

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

HHN 2009

2009-10-05T12:15:00.000-07:00

This past Friday I attended Universal Studios' Hollywood Horror Nights in Hollywood.

I have one word to describe it, SICK!

From the moment you walk through the turnstile you're bombarded with pig faced, chainsaw wielding, psychopaths. It's extremely exhilarating. Everywhere you go there's a terrifying "scare zone" and mazes that are high in production and relentless in scares. The "terror tram" was an exercise in, well, it was an exercise. You have to trek through the Universal backlot avoiding The Strangers, Norman Bates, Michael Myers, a haunted mine shaft, and an alien war zone. Did I mention the men with chainsaws that greet you as you get let off the tram? So crazy! It was simply amazing and I recommend it to anyone that has a thing or a love for horror.

Mos def planning on going again.

*Note: Not for small children. I saw women crying on the floor and grown men being chased around the park. It's that scary.

October

2009-10-01T22:53:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Google?
Copyright 2009

It is officially October 1st and I am really excited. I love October and all the great things it brings. Like: horror movies, great lawn decorations, candy, costumes, most importantly Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios and Haunt at Knott's Scary Farm, and sometimes some other things I wouldn't have thought of without Google.

It's a full moon tonight.

Elm St.

2009-09-30T12:50:00.000-07:00

Images Property of New Line Cinema
Copyright 1984 & 2009

I just saw the trailer for the remake of A Nightmare on Elm Street and I have to admit I'm a little disappointed. It doesn't look very scary at all. Which is strange because a lot of what is in the trailer are iconic scenes from the original, like the bathtub scene (I hated bathing after that) and the bedroom scene (not the one with Johnny Depp).

Being a remake, of course there is a new Krueger, Robert Englund is out and Jackie Earle Haley is in. You might know him as Rorschach from Watchmen and as Kelly from all the Bad News Bears movies, funny I always thought he was a girl, but as Krueger he kind of looks alien.

In any event, I'm not that enthused over seeing this one. I think I'll rent it.

This is Halloween

2009-09-29T17:58:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing & Collage
8.5" x 11"

For my countdown to Halloween I thought I'd visit one of my all time favorite movies Halloween. Not just favorite scary movie, this movie is in my top ten.

I just drew multiple Michael's and digitally collaged the pieces I thought looked and worked best together. Then I digitally illustrated and badly Photoshop filtered an image of young Michael with his adult portrait superimposed. A pretty literal interpretation of Michael really just being a broken boy.

To me this is Halloween.

Batmanny

2009-09-28T19:32:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Warner Bros. Entertainment
Copyright 1989

October is three days away, but that hasn't stopped talk between Michelle and I over what to be this coming Halloween. With that in mind I thought I'd post a nostalgic image of me in my Batman costume from 2nd grade.

I still remember being in love with Tim Burton's Batman and strongly deciding that I wanted to be Batman for Halloween. With a VHS tape in hand and my mother on board to be my workhorse, I set out to have her create the best homemade Batcostume ever. This might have been my very first design job, I still have the memory of art directing my mother. Making sure that I got exactly what I wanted. I would sit in front of the tv and pause the tape and say, "Look mom like that." I have to say that at that time you couldn't just go to Target and get a $20 costume and call it a day. Mom had to make it.

Thank you mom. It's okay I didn't win that year's costume contest.

Geotrooper

2009-09-15T19:44:00.001-07:00

Paper, Tape & Cardboard
6" x 6"

I was inspired recently and finally decided to take that inspiration and channel it into something of my own.

I made an abstract model of a Stormtrooper helmet using some Scotch tape and three sheets of white 8.5"x11" paper. I basically just wanted to see if I could make a three dimensional object. It's based on very simple geometry and symmetry, but I think the result seems surprisingly more complex.

The fun thing about this piece was that I sat and worked on the model while watching Return of the Jedi, and it's been a while since I've watched any of the three films.

Lady Gaga at the VMAS

2009-09-14T22:19:00.000-07:00

Image Property of Getty Images
Copyright 2009

I've been away for a very long time now, but I wanted to make my first post back on Lady Gaga's VMA Performance last night in New York.

This performance to me was just that, a performance. A very memorable and shocking performance. The act and her wardrobe for the night were described by Michelle as, very Party Monster. I agree. It was also described as, so Rocky Horror. Again, I agree. Of course the first thing that came to mind was Phantom of the Opera, but also strangely enough Madonna's Vogue performance. It channeled all these references into something very spectacular and thought provoking.

It was really a great expression of what happens to stars in the spotlight. It symbolized the sort of chew you up and spit you out attitude that comes with being a celebrity. Case in point, Michael Jackson. He was extravagant and decadent, and that made for something very special for the rest of us, but in turn it left him debilitated. In the end his life and his end were really quite the spectacle.

Gangrene Bath

2009-08-05T01:22:00.001-07:00

Pencil Drawing & Digital Collage
8.5" x 11"

This should have been my Friday post, but I never got around to it. I had the image and idea in my head, but I had some other business to take care of.

This is the scene in The Shining where Jack comes across an alluring woman in the bath and soon discovers she's been in a gangrene bath. The woman it turns out is a ghost of the Overlook hotel. Sometimes you need to be careful what you wish for. All work and no play make Jack a dull boy, better than getting it on with a decaying geriatric woman.

Tony

2009-07-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

Pencil Drawing & Digital Collage
8.5" x 11"

I never fully understood the little voice in Danny's throat (Tony), but I have to admit it was very creepy. It seemed to know everything and played a pivotal role in Danny's survival.

Thanks Tony!

Redrum

2009-07-30T00:54:00.001-07:00

Pencil Drawing & Digital Collage
8.5" x 11"

To the two folks that actually view my blog, I know I've been gone a while, but I was a little busy this week. Although I've been gone it's actually given me some time to think about my latest entry, which was in some very odd and strange way art directed by my lovely girlfriend.

We recently watched 2001: A Space Odyssey by Stanley Kubrick and I have to say it was very aesthetically beautiful, aside from being a very interesting tale. She had some thoughts on the film. But the reason I mention it is, my girlfriend's favorite film is The Shining directed by Stanley, and based on these two little tidbits of information I did this very draining collage.

REDRUM! REDRUM! REDRUM!

Lestrange

2009-07-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
8.5" x 11"

I know I already drew an image inspired by Harry Potter, but this was my original idea for a Potter drawing.

It's Bellatrix Lestrange being overwhelmed by the dark mark. Helena Bonham Carter has been great in her role as Lestrange in the Potter films. Very despicable, but at the same time strangely alluring. I can't decide yet if her role was bigger here or in Order of the Phoenix. Either way she was a nice addition to the cast and seems to still be Marla Singer from Fight Club (strange?).

*Note: This image has been manipulated.

Pinhead

2009-07-22T15:44:00.000-07:00

Micron Drawing
8.5" x 11"

There is not much to say about Pinhead and the Hellraiser films. I only vividly remember the scene with the inverted man (there might have also been a woman).

I wonder if the Rubik's Cube can yield these results?

*Note: This image has been recomposed.

Leatherface

2009-07-22T15:37:00.001-07:00

Micron Drawing
8.5" x 11"

Keeping with the theme of horror I decided to point my attention to Leatherface from a Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

This movie left me slightly traumatized as a sixth grader. My aunt told me that the film was based on real events and that she herself remembered hearing about what had happened to those teenagers. She claimed to be terrified of traveling cross country because of the macabre of the Texas Chainsaw Massacre.

It wasn't until I saw Psycho and Silence of the Lambs that I began to see similarities and began to grow a curiosity for the story of Leatherface. A high school friend owned a book that catalogue America's serial killers, and there I found Ed Gein. The man who inspired the three films mentioned above. His tale was slightly more tame in comparison.

Krueger

2009-07-21T20:03:00.001-07:00

Micron Drawing
8.5" x 11"

I was thinking and thinking what can I draw now, and then I thought pulling out of the horror hat might be in order, and it was a good idea too. I made this quick drawing of Freddy Krueger from a Nightmare on Elm St. and I think it might be as of now my favorite drawing so far (that I've posted).

I don't have to repeat myself, but I watched these as a kid and was generally scared s**tless. The Nightmare franchise was always a good way to get a scare and to see some very surreal sequences. I will just say, I never really cared for the franchise reboot of Freddy V Jason. I thought that, even for Freddy standards, was pretty bad. Gory, but bad.

Battle for Endor

2009-07-21T19:57:00.001-07:00

Micron Drawing
Dimensions: 8.5" x 11"

This weekend while visiting my girlfriend I watched the Ewoks. I saw about half of Caravan of Courage and did not much care for it. I had never seen it. On the other hand I did have a chance to watch The Battle for Endor, which is a great movie. It's cute and sweet and above all very violent. The Ewoks are insane little warriors and they can do damage (whether it be those crazy skeleton fellows or the Empire).

Wicket!

Ash

2009-07-21T11:23:00.000-07:00

Pencil Drawing
8.5" x 11"

I more or less saw Army of Darkness recently with my girlfriend, it was her first time. I can remember watching Army of Darkness when I was a kid, but I never knew that it was a sequel to Evil Dead and Evil Dead 2. That being, I never even knew of its two predecessors. I eventually discovered Evil Dead and was really amused and scared. I can categorize Evil Dead right next to Peter Jackson's Dead Alive. You know why.

Yo, she-b***h! Let's go.

Death Eaters

2009-07-21T11:11:00.001-07:00

Pencil Drawing
8.5" x 11"

This drawing is a tribute to the six installment in the Harry Potter franchise; Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

I know this is more an image from Order of the Phoenix, but I love the Death Eaters' masks. I couldn't help myself.

I did manage to see the new film last Tuesday at 12:01 AM, as the ticket stub reads. I went along with my two younger sisters who are indeed Potter fans.

The new film has to be the best in the series, it was beautifully acted, well directed, and more importantly, well told. I still prefer Order of the Phoenix to the Half-Blood Prince, but I can't deny that this is by far the best crafted Potter film yet. I imagine the last installment(s) will be an amazing and epic film(s). I can't wait.

Weekends

2009-07-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

The weekends will be a hard time for me to post, because I generally take the weekends off to be with my girlfriend. I will be posting drawings for those days I am away, but they'll all be posted under Monday, so it'll seem as if I'm posting 4 for one day, but they will be those I managed not to post.

Mondays will be my day to catch up on posts.

Predator

2009-07-16T07:23:00.000-07:00

Pencil Drawing
8.5" x 11"

What a perfect compliment to the Alien drawing from yesterday, this is one ugly mother f****r.

I actually watched this movie a hundred times when I was a kid. My brothers and I must have worn our VHS tape out. Predator is a fond memory of my childhood, like a lot of Arnold's movies, it's a classic.

Aliens

2009-07-15T19:57:00.001-07:00

Pencil Drawing
8.5" x 11"

This is officially my first post. It is a drawing of two aliens from Alien.

I have to say these movies are amazing and sadly enough I only realized this four years ago (and I call my self a geek). I had never had the privileged opportunity to watch the Alien movies, but once I did I was hooked. Don't get me wrong, I knew of Alien, I just hadn't seen Alien. Strange.

Drawings

2009-07-15T18:53:00.000-07:00

My summer plan is to hopefully make a drawing a day and post it here on the blog. I will be making other random posts about the cool stuff in my life, but for the most part this blog will be dedicated to daily drawings. The drawings as you'll begin to see are based on sci-fi and horror themes and maybe some fantasy, not sure yet.

That's the plan. I hope you enjoy.

Blogging

2009-07-14T17:25:00.000-07:00

I would like you to know that this is my first venture into blogging. I don't even particularly know too many blogs myself, but I think the idea of a blog is great. If I can be honest, I actually got introduced into the world of blogging through a very special person, my girlfriend. She is an amazing graphic designer and a little bit of a fashionista. I love her. Thank you baby. Here's to a whole new world.

With that said, this is Manny's Blog.