Politics

Awful April

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Awful April

America right now feels like someone throwing things onto the lawn while their house burns down. At the same time, the water sprinkler is running. You can hear screaming and shouting, yet you can’t look away from the circus unfolding before your eyes. They’re yelling at you and blaming you for everything—a former friend turned into a monster. It’s a stark reminder that we’re all just one bad decision away from becoming monstrous or evil ourselves.

That’s exactly how I feel about this trade war and their overall behavior—switching sides, burning alliances, and becoming radicalized before our eyes as their new boyfriend grins. A couple of years ago, I suggested we should take a sledgehammer to online systems to stop the radicalization of people. Now, I think that step is absolutely necessary.

The irony here is that George Lucas’s Star Wars epic portrayed trade wars and the decline into authoritarianism. It feels eerily inspired, as it was influenced by the Vietnam War. Perhaps we’ll see something similar in years to come; it already feels like satire at this point. This current trade war feels stupid and genuinely worrying. Why the backsliding and lack of pushback? Checks and balances are meaningless if they aren’t enforced. It’s easy to forget that some of the worst leaders and regimes in history were once elected.

This reminds me of a video I saw recently from A Man for All Seasons—the devil speech. The point of the speech was simple: if you remove due process from one group, you can remove it from all groups. It’s a lesson people seem to forget as the worst moments in history fade. Law should be respected and applied equally to everyone. Because who’s to say it can’t be used against you, and what’s standing in the way to prevent it?

The reason I bring this up is because people are crying about a two-tier justice system, taking into account racial and social factors. But the reality is that most people don’t realize we already have a two-tier justice system—those who can afford lawyers and those who can’t. Yet there’s no outcry to address that problem. This is where the ideological inconsistencies of most voters drive me mad.

My point is that the radicalization of people is happening and should be considered a major problem. Watching the leader of the UK opposition spread falsehoods and lies about a TV show is disheartening—it’s radicalization happening in real time. Instead of banning porn or other distractions, we should be focusing on social media models and algorithms. Something far more sinister is happening globally, and it deserves attention. I understand the world is chaotic with many problems, but honestly, something needs to be done. Banning is the easy option, and it doesn’t work. Regulation and restoring trust matter. Otherwise, who’s to say we won’t be next?

Brexit, Politics

Fishy Business of Security

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Fishy Business of Security

Fishy business could be holding up the UK-EU defence pact, and honestly, it’s fascinating how something as mundane as fishing rights can derail a vital security agreement. A pinch of salt is needed here, but Sweden’s EU affairs minister, Jessica Rosencrantz, has been refreshingly honest about the situation.

The stakes couldn’t be higher. Russia is ramping up pressure—not just with war, but through sabotage, espionage, and other indirect acts. America feels unreliable as an ally these days. Hostility towards Europe is growing, with public opinion turning sour and distancing from them. The US seems to outright hate Europe and wants to dismantle the European Union. So much for isolationist policies! This could even be an existential crisis for us. Sovereignty and security are at risk. The UK, along with France, is one of the few European nations able to project military power globally, making the UK an indispensable player in European security. If you’re wondering why Russia is keen to divide and sideline Europe, that’s precisely why. The UK and EU desperately need this pact to safeguard each other, and decoupling from America to take security into our own hands is increasingly urgent.

The war in Ukraine drags on. Europe is rearming, and Russia isn’t shy about showing its hostility towards the UK. It’s clear they see us as a major threat, and they’d love nothing more than for Britain to fall. Most voters don’t seem to notice, but the evidence is plain—murder, spying, sabotage. These acts are carefully designed to avoid provoking a formal declaration of war, but they’re war all the same. This isn’t just Britain’s problem; it’s happening all across Europe. Refugees are being weaponised to destabilise European politics, adding yet another layer to the chaos. Some might ask why we should care about Ukraine and European security, but the connection is obvious. Russia is Europe’s gas station. The war in Ukraine sent energy prices soaring, heavily impacting UK energy costs tied to natural gas. If you care about your fuel bill, you should care about this. Refugees and asylum seekers matter too—if Ukraine falls, millions will flee Russian rule. These seemingly unconnected issues are deeply linked.

Both sides want this defence pact sorted fast, and climate change adds more urgency. Arctic shipping routes are opening up, and protecting them will be crucial. Ireland is under the UK’s security umbrella, with the UK carrying the load since Ireland doesn’t have its own armed forces. Vast amounts of cargo bound for Europe travel by sea, and undersea cables connect the City of London to the continent. Britain acts as Europe’s fortress island, safeguarding the Atlantic and the Arctic alongside Nordic countries. Ireland and the Arctic are vulnerable, and the UK defence industry is eager to get involved in Europe’s rearmament. But neither the EU nor the UK is going to make this easy. Enter fishing rights—the bargaining chip.

Fishing rights have always been a contentious topic. The UK can’t sell fish into the EU market due to trade barriers we agreed to, so holding onto these rights seems pointless. Yet fishing stirs deep national sentiment. There’s a romanticism about fishermen braving the high seas that resonates emotionally. It’s similar to farmers—everyone loves them, yet we fail to pay them properly. People want cheap food but balk at the idea of paying more, having grown used to rock-bottom prices. Fishing rights always spark emotion during trade talks, even though most people don’t think about it daily. But here’s the thing—pragmatism has to win. Resolving fishing rights could rebuild trust and open the door to broader cooperation. Jessica Rosencrantz is right: fixing this issue creates space to resolve other sensitive topics, like defence.

It’s about much more than fish—it’s about security. Collaborating with European fleets to protect the North Sea from Russia, China, or even America is crucial. If sharing fishing rights helps make that happen, surely it’s worth considering? Russia and China are already eyeing undersea cables, and we don’t have enough ships to protect them. Russia is even suspected—though unproven—of tampering with these cables already. The case for increasing UK defence spending and expanding our navy and air force is strong.

Let’s face it—the UK’s economy is struggling. Stagnant growth, inflation, and poor productivity weigh us down. Undoing some of the trade barriers we created post-Brexit is common sense. Patching up the flat tyre won’t fix the whole car, but it’ll stop the wobble. The UK can’t keep trying to act as a bridge between the US, EU, and itself—it’s unsustainable. For security and economic stability, rejoining the European community isn’t just logical; it’s critical. Am I thrilled about this? Not really, but it’s where we are. Lay the blame squarely at the decision-makers who led us into this mess, and for goodness’ sake, stop voting for those peddling cakeism and false promises.

British exceptionalism needs to die. Clinging to empire fantasies holds us back, and parroting this rubbish does Britain no favours. If we’re going to rebuild, we need to make the case emotionally and clearly—not just with facts, but in a way people connect with. Denial won’t get us anywhere; it’s time for a dose of reality. I’d rather not be subject to whims and wishes of others without a say, forced to go along with it. What sovereignty is there in that? Better to pool resources with like-minded nations. Sharing the burden is cheaper.

The EU sees this differently, and understandably so. The UK hasn’t treated them well, so caution is natural. It’s like an ex suddenly wanting to share resources after years of distance—would you trust them? If your answer’s yes, I’d question your judgement. Changing your mind is fine, but the EU wants proof that we’re serious this time. Negotiations are simple: you give, they give. It’s baffling how many seem to lack a basic grasp of strategy—I’ve spent far too much time playing real-time strategy games, and even I understand.

Critical thinking is desperately needed, but unchecked sources and half-truths dominate. Politicians should be alarmed, but they seem oddly relaxed. Maybe they’re cushioned by algorithm-driven bubbles. It’s worrying. Neurodivergent thinkers like me might not fit into traditional politics, but we care deeply. I’ve considered stepping in because the problems are clear and solvable. Cleverer people than me have failed spectacularly, though. I’ve been told I should go for it, but the road’s long, and I’m unsure I’d fit the mould. Then again, doubting I’d be great at it might be what makes me suited for it.

Why do we keep electing the same people who lead us astray? Why do we listen to the rich preaching what’s best for us while dodging their responsibilities? Why aren’t we asking tougher questions and prioritising what truly matters? Spending more time choosing your underwear than questioning bin collection policies doesn’t make sense. Politics impacts every aspect of daily life, and focusing on trivialities over real issues is frustrating. Voters are messy—they want impossible things and conflicting promises. Politicians over-promise because voters demand it. Maybe it’s time for leaders who lead, not chase illusions. We need a more grounded, collaborative system. Less theatre, more substance. Voters must stay engaged beyond elections, and politicians need to sound relatable. I admit I can get overly technical, but the core issues are there if you dig past the fluff.

The UK and EU stand at a crossroads, with their futures intertwined in ways many voters barely recognise. Fishing rights might seem trivial on the surface, but they symbolise something much deeper—trust, collaboration, and a willingness to compromise. These are the building blocks for a defence pact that’s not just about protecting borders but ensuring Europe can stand united against those who would divide and conquer. It’s frustrating watching Europe move slowly, with some decisions driven by pride. Cynicism only strengthens our opponents and weakens us. Yet there’s a glimmer of hope—Europe is not weak but strong. Sovereignty isn’t about isolation; it’s about pooling resources. The world is more interconnected than ever, and pretending we can go it alone is foolish.

The glass may feel half empty right now, but it’s not empty. There’s still something worth fighting for—it’s the foundation upon which European peace was built. After the dark shadow of World War II, a better future emerged. One built on trade, cooperation, pragmatism, and a belief in security and stability. If we can stop clinging to outdated notions of exceptionalism and focus on what truly matters, there’s no reason Europe, including the UK, can’t be stronger, safer, and more resilient. We can learn from history or repeat the same mistakes of the past.

 

Video Games, WarFrame

Warframe: A Free-to-Play Power Fantasy

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Warframe: A Free-to-Play Power Fantasy

Warframe is all about power fantasy, and the game embraces that fully. A lot of new players wrongly think they can rush to the end of the main quest and hit maximum power. But quests are more about storytelling and adding flavour to the world. Real power comes from customising, building new gear, and improving it.

There’s a power ceiling in Warframe, with the devs giving you both a floor and a ceiling to work towards. That floor is lower than most people realise, and the ceiling is pretty low for most of the content. The key things you want are mods—they’re the foundation of everything. Out of around 1,200 mods, I use maybe 100 at most. Other items are similar to mods but act more like extra bells and whistles. Are they necessary? Not really—they’re just nice quality-of-life options. For example, there are 148 Arcanes, but I only use about 20.

Some people might not like Warframe’s loot-shooter style, but honestly, it’s not all that different from other live-service games. Take Genshin Impact as an example: it has RPG elements, focuses on loot, and lets you make custom choices too. You can play any character in both games and still do just fine. Sure, in Warframe (and Genshin), some characters are better at specific tasks, making certain things easier. The big difference is that Warframe values your time far more than Genshin does. With Warframe’s trading system, you can earn loads without spending a penny.

Why I Like Warframe

So why do I like Warframe? It’s the customisation, the movement, and the power fantasy. When I tried Genshin, I felt lost after the main quest and couldn’t get more characters. Worse, some stuff had been retired, and I couldn’t earn it anymore. Warframe, on the other hand, keeps retired items tradable or brings them back during limited-time events. Most content is still earnable, even if a Prime item gets retired.

Warframe has been going strong for 12 years now and has a massive amount of content. During that time, they’ve taken risks, revisited content, and added new ideas. Instead of sticking to a formula, they’ve expanded so much. You can race in Warframe, fly spaceships, and more. They’ve taken the game far beyond the original vision, all while keeping it as extras to the base game.

The game doesn’t do the best job of signposting what you should be working on. It can feel overwhelming at first, especially with over 750 items to unlock and use. Things like Mastery Rank act as a progress bar, but the game doesn’t explain them well to new players. Each rank gives you access to new guns, features, and plenty of areas to explore. Once you unlock more features, the game truly opens up with endless options to pursue.

Even though I’ve done nearly everything in Warframe, I still find stuff to farm and things to do. Updates and changes keep the game fresh, and I either revisit old content or get ready for what’s next. Most importantly, Warframe never feels like a full-time job to me. I can take breaks and catch up with little effort, and that’s why I keep coming back.

It’s not perfect—they’ve made plenty of mistakes—but they’ve worked towards better systems. I’d love to see them revisit older content and improve it further. A good example would be adding a pity system to everything, not just some of the newer content. If you don’t enjoy it, stop playing—it’s free to try, after all.

So, what do I have left to do after all this time? Solo a boss fight with certain frames, collect my missing mods, and finish off my Arcane collection. I also need to adjust builds for exalted weapons that have been reworked, farm the newest frame from the Temple, and get the last of the Cedo weapons.

Journal, Politics

The Democratic Dilemma: Resist or Radicalize?

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The Democratic Dilemma: Resist or Radicalize?

The American presidential election happened in November 2024. A narrow win feels like a landslide. In terms of the popular vote, the margin was 1.62%. Yet Republicans have wasted no time attacking everything—or more accurately, breaking everything. The president now wields king-like powers, standing above all other branches. This is far from normal. It represents a centralization of power and an attack on the federal system while simultaneously expanding control over states. Checks and balances seem complicit in this shift, highlighting how radical the change has been. However, something much bigger is happening beneath the surface.

Top Trumps

Trump won, and Harris lost. Since that defeat, Democrats have drifted. They lack a united message or voice. Leadership of the party is spread across many roles and offices. The strength of the federal government—decentralized power—has become a glaring weakness. Unlike many other political systems, there is no single opposition leader. What was once a strength is now a liability. The party has been vocal about Trump breaking rules and norms, yet many voters appear indifferent. The silence from Republicans has gone unchallenged. The mainstream media has tried to paint what is happening as normal. It is anything but normal, as Project 2025 unfolds—a deeply unpopular platform that is breaking everything.

Dazed by Defeat

Dazed by defeat, Democrats have not had time to process. Members have tried to explain the flipping of all three branches of government. The obvious point is the economy; voters told everyone it was inflation and their anger over it. Poor messaging, failure to listen to voters, and a desire to punish the party are the answers. Voters wanted change, frustrated with political gridlock. Various figures have offered ideas and analyses of why, who, and what happened. Some common themes emerge, but many are fighting past battles. It feels like a funeral happening one day after a death, with people at the wake fighting over what went wrong.

Stacking the Cards

It is unknown what these changes mean for future election cycles. The deck is being stacked in favor of Republicans. Loyalists are being installed at every level, and political appointments—scrapped decades ago—are being reintroduced. We don’t yet know how this will play out. If every new government removes civil servants, the American system, like clockwork, could grind to a halt, creating chaos. The midterms and the next race will come quickly, with different offices and seats up for grabs. Even something like voting districts can be gamed, sealing an advantage. This narrow defeat has painful consequences. With limited guardrails and moral values, people will do anything to get ahead. Republicans have proven they are ruthless and unwilling to relinquish power. This leads to a dangerous situation that could unfold. Insurrection has happened once. Under the surface, something much bigger is brewing—a volatile electorate that is fragmenting. It feels different this time.

Resist or Radicalization?

Two schools of thought have emerged. Democrats can sit back and watch the chaos unfold, playing by the old rules. Norms apply to them but not their opponents. They don’t propose major changes and instead play within the old system, treating this as a blip. They still fight but pick their battles, seeking to preserve and conserve the order that came before. One such battle is playing out now. Democrats find themselves in an impossible position on government shutdowns and the debt ceiling. They fold to avoid blame for a shutdown, seeking to win the war, not the battle.

The other viewpoint is far more fragmented. It focuses on defending liberal values and moving toward a more progressive path. There is no clear guiding light here—just a desire to improve the lives of working-class Americans. It’s about being conservative but with progressive ideas to remake the system and fix what is broken. It’s liberal versus conservative, but with progressives wanting to do more. Both sides view their approach as correct. Parties normally fight over future direction; this time is no different. Radical revolution versus incremental change. Republicans underwent a similar process, and the result was Trump. Progressives view the defeat as another ignored warning shot. Conservatives see it as a minor setback that can be dealt with. They believe the changes can be undone once the worst impacts are felt.

Resist or Revolution?

Republicans have made it very clear this is a revolution. I don’t think that has dawned on many people yet—not voters, not either party. One thing both sides are missing is the fragmentation and push toward the fringe. This leads to more backsliding and shifting gravity. Why? The gaming of the system and the primary process mean pandering in the name of purity. The right has radicalized itself before. Political parties are not immune to outside influence, which shifts the mainstream toward fringe views.

Now, the online right has radicalized itself, causing mainstream center-right parties to shift further right. This empowers the far or alt-right, bolstering its support. This small group now believes in a reality based on an information diet of nonsense, engaging with a false world. Junk information is infecting voters and parties. What has happened in America is part of a global trend. Partisan politics are on steroids, and rage is spilling out. That’s the fragmentation happening naturally across the world. Both parties are moving away from the average voter.

In America, the online right has taken over the Republican Party. Calls to move toward the center and compromise are valid, but in a hyper-partisan world, purity becomes a liability. A wide tent can be useful for reinvention, but a small tent with purity above all else is dangerous. Democrats should learn from their opponents’ mistakes. They should listen to moderate voices, progressives, and voters’ desires. But that also means unclogging the system and making major constitutional changes. Here, Trump’s wrecking ball may be a blessing for the future. One key lesson is the information war—how one side has used it and been consumed by it. The other side is still fighting by the old rules. Cleaning up the information space and dealing with tech giants is a necessary evil. Democrats must also enter this alien world and do a better job engaging with folks outside their algorithm.

Resist or Fight Another Day?

I understand why people are angry at Democrats for not fighting, but it’s part of a much bigger problem: the lack of an opposition leader and failure to reinvent the party. Democrats now need to expand their appeal. Moderates and progressives can work together to find common ground and push for necessary changes. Trump has already shown his willingness to push his power to the limits. Democrats should have shut down the government and blamed him, focusing on inflation and the chaos he was causing.

A single message focusing on why the Democrats care and addressing voters’ fears would have been deeply risky, but the hope is Trump would do the damage for them. The biggest risk is fighting everything without being strategic. The obvious fight is over spending cuts and the debt ceiling, forcing Republicans to own it and creating conflict with figures like Musk. Another viewpoint is keeping powder dry until debt ceiling talks. It all comes down to partisan politics and the ability to rise above it or sink to it.

Authoritarian Turn: Everybody is Angry

The information war has evolved. People no longer get news from mainstream sources. Instead, mainstream media is downstream. Upstream feeds are dominated by certain groups, missing their voice. This allows them to set the tone and paint the narrative before Democrats can respond. That needs addressing because one side is talking to itself, unable to connect with the voters it needs. Democrats need plain-speaking messages that resonate with voters.

The problem is one side is setting the message and tone before the debate begins. What we now have are two opposing views: an illiberal but liberal elite seeking to destroy the liberal elite. They exploit the system they helped break to destroy it and rebuild it. Authoritarian power grabs are driven by extreme partisan views. It’s easy to destroy but much harder to create. The good news is the election cycle continues. The bad news is one side seems willing to give Republicans unlimited power, fearing they’ll be consumed by this revolution. Trump now wields king-like political power. The party of small government is fine with using that power however it pleases. But they haven’t considered what happens when the other side gets it. This authoritarian takeover shows no desire to yield power. That’s just my gut talking.

Falling for Radicalization as a Response

Democrats should avoid being radicalized like Republicans. As much as I like some figures being pushed as the answer, they are not the solution but part of the problem. They do, however, have some solutions to America’s woes. Sadly, most voters don’t share that instinct or ideological lean. Voters are complicated, often holding conflicting views. They base decisions on vibes, hearsay, and information from non-mainstream sources.

That last point is something Democrats need to address quickly. They must enter the rabbit hole—not to be consumed by it but to use it to deliver their message. I’m an outsider to American politics but no stranger to progressive versus moderate battles. My views lean progressive, but I think about politics differently than most voters, who often don’t. If you’re curious why Trump can get away with breaking the rules, that’s why. Voters care more about the price of eggs and gas. Democrats and their allies should start there and build a case against Trump. That also means winning the information war and quickly getting into the fight.

Journal, Politics

Don’t Panic: Time for Action on Ukraine

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Don’t Panic: Time for Action on Ukraine

Calm heads are required. A knee-jerk reaction is a mistake. You should take your time, to consider and reflect. Failure to response to Russian aggression. Inaction is how we have got here. Europe as whole did not give Ukraine everything it needed to win. It tried to do half measures, to avoid economic pain. Russia war economy is overheating, it has been unable to take Ukraine. In the 3 years, progress has been painfully slow and stalled. What support we have given Ukraine has been a massive success. Now it seems the Americans have changed sides. Who could have seen that coming? Oh, I don’t know, it was in plain sight and obvious.

Europe and rest of the west should accept this what has happened. Learn from it mistakes. Warm words do not win wars. Action however does. What worries me is inaction and gravity pulling us in a direction that not in are interests. The last 3 years of policy look to be a failure. If you wanted Ukraine to win and this conflict between west and Russia to be contained. If not obvious we’re at war with Russia, that how they view it. Viewing it as a scale and willing to push but avoid what we consider all out war. So what should we be doing? Well, ramping up production, aiming to supply Ukraine. With the goal of domestic production. At the same time increasing defence spending and looking at replacing American’s ability in Europe. The goal here is building a new command centre with Europe in control and leading. Lots that need to be done here. That going to be longer term thing but required. Holding back on stronger sanctions for now unless something big happens. What is required, here, is going to be deeply painful.

What happened in the White House this week was shocking but a wake-up call. We have time to improve things. The price of peace is much higher than it was. Europe is rich and can pay that price. We may not like it, but we can do it. Otherwise, we’re heading towards war with Russia and going to end up unprepared. One bit of good news here, a formal war has not happened yet. I’m worried, yes, but half glass full we can avoid the worst of it. It does require paying the price to achieve peace we want and doing what is necessary.

Poem

Poem: Tragedy of peace

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Poem: Tragedy of peace

Seasons are changing—winter of peace fades.
Spring seems to bring the rebirth of war.

Worst case, a summer of conflict looms.
Yet the song of war has been a long time coming.
We have been sleeping through the long peace.

Each crisis, each event, piling up like leaves on the road.
Snoozing the alarm every time—
now it cannot be silenced.

The theatre of war is already here.
Acts of sabotage and murder,
neighbours turning hostile.

We ignore escalation, like a spring storm creeping in.
Doing the bare minimum,
hoping recycling plastic is enough,
or that providing ammo is enough.

One nation invades another—
for some, war is already here.
Like spring, the storm of war arrives.

A fiery storm that could reduce everything to chaos.
Soon, it could pull everyone into the war.

For many, they have escaped the heavy rain
Only when the winds grow stronger
and the flooding begins
do we start to ask questions.

A flood of lies—
Not an invasion, they say. They started it.
Rewriting history, erasing the lives of the lost.
Fighting these lies is necessary—
the truth is, it was an invasion.

The winds of war carry not just destruction,
but the death of truth.

For others, the war becomes a distant memory,
like spring in the dead of winter.

A winter of lies,
snow covering the truth.

The gears of war have rusted, and rebuilding will take time—
but time is what we lack.

Instead, we wound down,
cut the trees, and called it job done.

Now the forest is bare—empty.
No longer green, but run down.
What replaces it is not peace, but decay.

The coming storm is far more dangerous,
and it comes for us all.

The price of peace is the ability to defend,
but also the will to fight for what you believe in.

Cost of peace is high, but cost of war far higher and burns a hole in generations. Must be ready to fight, otherwise what is the point?

You cannot change the world we live in,
but that does not mean we are powerless.

If you wish for people to fight,
you must give them something to fight for.

Give them a reason to uphold the order.

My fear is we lack that.

A positive reward is required,
a vision for what comes after.

Now is not the time for retreat.
Now is the time to stand together,
united against this threat.

Inaction will lead to ruin and destruction spreading.

It is always painful when friends turn to foes,
but nothing lasts forever.

Freedom of speech is not freedom to offend.
Decrying freedom whilst removing others’ freedom is an insult to justice.
Those who failed to prevent this should go into the jaws of war first.
Broad shoulders should bear the weight of this failure—
to plan, to control, to own their mistakes.

The burden of this fight should be for all to bear.
The poor and weak fight for your freedom—
you should willingly give up your gold to pay for it.
We sacrifice our lives for your selfishness.
The least you could do is pay your respects and dues.
Otherwise, give up your privilege
for someone who will treat it with more care.

The future of another lies in our hands.
Stand firm, fight with them.
Surrender our own sovereignty and security.
Journal, Movies

James Bond Amazon gets control

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James Bond Amazon gets control

I have written about James Bond in the past. Briefly wrote about the ownership. Small paragraph that worth revisiting.

The Broccoli family has diligently safeguarded control over the Bond franchise. Danjaq holds the copyright for the film series. The first twenty Bond movies are co-owned by Danjaq and MGM, while the remainder belong to Danjaq, MGM, and Columbia Pictures (a Sony subsidiary). Eon Productions, owned by the Broccoli family, meticulously oversees all Bond projects. Their level of control rivals J.K. Rowling’s veto power over the Harry Potter franchise.

Danjaq is owned and managed by Broccoli family, Eon Productions is also owned and operated by Broccoli. Franchise is creative direction and production is owned by this family. Why is that important? Well because we just got news that is changing.

Amazon MGM has gained control over creative control and production. Amazon MGM, Wilson, and Broccoli have come to an agreement. A new joint venture to house the property rights. All three remain co-owners, but creative control goes to Amazon. Ending 60 years of control for Wilson and Broccoli family. Both have retired from producing films. What does this mean for Eon productions? I have no idea. Looks like Sony has sold to Amazon. I can’t find anything on that just a guess.

So what does this mean?

Well, two producers protecting Bond legacy are gone. Made it clear they want theatre releases, not just prime only. Long stalemate after last release in 2021. Last year it was reported nothing was happening. It was an open secret that Broccoli and Amazon did not agree. For whatever reason, they have handled control over to Amazon. Giving up the fight but not the pay day if it works out. Bond brand could now appear anywhere, for years it was protected and guarded. Now a big tech company with a studio has full control. I’m worried yes.

It fine, I have my memories of bond and what it means to me. If they screw this up, I won’t watch it or buy anything. They have big shoes to fill.

Comic book movies

Captain America 4 is okay?

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Captain America 4 is okay?

Captain America 4 is finally out. Sam Wilson, formerly the Falcon, officially takes up the mantle of Captain America (Cap), continuing the story set up in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier—which I have not watched. From my understanding, that series already covered Sam taking on the role of Captain America, which means this film can’t rely on that storyline. This highlights the limitations of combining TV series and movies within the MCU.

So, what’s my mindset going in? My expectations are low. I’m not anticipating a major narrative push or an outstanding story—just an okay or decent movie at best. That sounds fair to me: an average film that introduces us to Captain Falcon. We’ve already had a political thriller with Captain America: The Winter Soldier, so this film needs to take a fresh approach. The question is: will they take risks, or will they play it safe? I’m not convinced they’ll do anything bold.

The original trilogy was a personal story about Steve Rogers. Here, the main character feels more like a supporting character rather than a lead. Sam’s nickname among comic book fans is Captain Falcon or Cap Falcon, but he can’t seem to shake off the feeling of being a side character. Why? He’s not the first character we see, he’s not part of the story for a while, and everybody else around him feels more important. What we get is a film that ties up loose ends, bringing together two main storylines into a very watchable but ultimately just “good” movie. It reminds me of Phase 1 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU)—a solid 6 out of 10. It sets up plot points for the future if some writer wants to use them.

Avoiding Spoilers: My Review

This movie feels like it exists to tie up loose ends, explaining past events while attempting to push the story forward. It feels like a sequel to both The Incredible Hulk (2008) and The Winter Soldier (2014), maintaining a similar tone. However, it ends up doing both badly. The problem is that Wilson still feels like a supporting character. He performs unbelievable feats while trying to remain grounded, yet the film fails to maintain that grounded feel. MCU power levels are well above him, meaning these feats require explanations. This creates an issue: the stakes feel low when everything looks easy. While there are moments where that’s not the case, they don’t really change much.

One saving grace is Harrison Ford’s character. His storyline is well-written, to the point where he honestly feels like the main character. Meanwhile, Sam feels like he’s supporting Ford’s character rather than leading his own film. The movie ultimately feels like two separate films mashed together—a remnant of Marvel’s shift in quality during the Disney+ era. It’s a fine movie that somehow works, but it should have been a Hulk movie with Wilson getting his own standalone story. It’s fast-paced and to the point, but it just feels a bit underwhelming. Calling it a political thriller is a bit of an insult, really.

At one point, it feels like the movie has ended—only for it to keep going, giving us another ending. The big twist at the end feels rushed. You could have split the movie into two and had a better result. The action is fine but nothing groundbreaking, and it doesn’t quite suit Falcon, who feels forgotten in terms of character development. If Marvel keeps producing movies of this quality, it’s going to damage the brand. Maybe we’ve already reached that point. Personally, I would have scrapped the movie, written it off, and taken a long, hard look at the direction of the franchise. Leading up to this movie, we had plenty of reports about the production woes it faced.

Production Issues

This film had a rocky production. Writing began in 2021 following the Disney+ series, but the project faced multiple delays. Originally slated for release in May 2024, the movie was pushed back to February 2025 due to production setbacks. Filming began in March 2023 but was disrupted by the Writers’ Strike in May, which lasted until November. Despite the strike, filming continued, though additional rewrites took place after it ended. Early test screenings were poorly received, resulting in further rewrites and reshoots. These reshoots occurred from January to June 2024—and again from May to November 2024—causing even more delays. Deadpool & Wolverine started filming later yet was still released first in 2024.

I’m not sure what to think. Actors and directors claim reshoots are common practice, but one thing is clear: this movie’s production was anything but smooth. Writer strikes often lead to weaker films, which raises concerns. Then again, I don’t know the ins and outs of Hollywood, so maybe this level of reshooting is normal. Based on the timeline, it seems like a third of the movie was redone. Given Marvel’s struggles in the Disney+ era, this is a middle-of-the-pack film. Whatever the case, reshoots did have an impact here. Yet, it remains a watchable film because of them. Impressive. I’ve been pretty critical and negative so far, so how would I have done it?

My Version of This Movie

The biggest problem I have is that I never watched The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Falcon is the new Captain America but not officially. The government doesn’t want him around. He’s a normal guy with wings, but they aren’t high-tech. Everything he does is a challenge. His acrobatics are how he overwhelms people—not by using strength. An outsider that the president turns to. He arrives at the White House, where the president greets him. No longer representing America, Sam is a reluctant hero. The president isn’t happy about Sam taking the shield. They don’t get along at all. The meeting goes poorly, and Sam settles down to being a social worker. He’s called back to investigate an unfolding mystery—the only person the president trusts. Sam is trying to find out where Nick Fury is, who the next Avengers could be, and why somebody is trying to destabilise America. He doesn’t trust the people around him, and they are clearly hiding something. Someone is trying to create a new world order, removing Ross from the White House and causing trouble.

Sam enlists a retired Bucky Barnes to help, along with some old friends. What follows is a political thriller with Sam and the Winter Soldier at the forefront. Sam learns to lead and become his own man, while Bucky helps him grow, acting as a mentor and friend. They discover that “X” is behind the plot to destroy the White House. After learning to work within his limits, Sam emerges as the leader people need. Bucky is sidelined and does not get any credit due to his public image. Two teams are formed: the Thunderbolts and a newly restarted special Falcon forces program. Nick Fury finally appears, warning Sam that something isn’t right—heroes are disappearing, leaving only the new generation behind. Everything they need to fight off threats, like super-soldier research, has gone. Sam sets off with a wanted Nick Fury, both going underground. Bucky fully embraces his Winter Soldier persona again under the command of Thunderbolt Ross. Ross is portrayed as a morally grey character, with Nick Fury providing a counterbalance. Turns out the person behind it all is Ross, who wants new metals and resources for himself, viewing himself—not Fury—as the best hope to defend the Earth.

Closing Thoughts

What we have here is a movie that plays it safe. It feels like an earlier Marvel film, hinting at a future team-up but without an overarching narrative linking everything together. Once again, it echoes the earlier days of the MCU. A couple of solid movies have come from Phases 4 and 5, and this one slots nicely into the middle. It’s not the worst, and it’s watchable. In my opinion, The Eternals and Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania hold the worst spots. Captain Falcon gets a solid 6 out of 10 for me. My review is pretty negative, but it’s not a bad movie, so I can’t rate it like one. The negativity comes from the high points of the MCU being so good—yet this seems to forget the lessons of what came before. You can skip this one and just stream it on Disney+. The trailers haven’t helped either—why reveal the big twist in them?

Journal

Market complacency – Rubicon crossed in America

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Market complacency – Rubicon crossed in America

In my view, the financial market’s complacency has me deeply worried. The focus has been on Trump tariffs. This is the second time Trump has attacked the machinery of government. He tried to freeze existing spending by executive order.  Quickly backtracked on that after 48 hours. You can read more here, here and here. Days later, Elon Musk’s minions have taken control of US treasury computer systems. Read more here, here and here. Taking over control of the machinery of the US government to control spending. Congress may have passed spending laws, but Musk can refuse to send the money. Unelected officials with no security clearance got control over America’s bank account. It amounts to a 21st-century coup. Purging officials who resist, who he does not agree with. Which was both efforts to control the purse is illegal and unconstitutional. Yet the market reaction is this is fine. 

Thought experiment: what would the global reaction be if this was another country? Outrage and punishment. Investors would be leaving on mass. The money would be flying out the doors. A bank run would most likely happen. This is beyond the imagination. It is not hard to see how the lack of pushback leads to Trump continuing, perhaps expanding his actions. Of course, even if this is temporary, the rubicon has been crossed. Passed the point of no return on a couple of norms. Elected officials should be worried. The most extreme outcome is the withholding of funds for support. Trump wants a constitutional change, no dollar until you support it.  What happens if the other side uses these powers? White House can bully whoever to do its bidding. They have been bypassed, willingly given up power. 

Struggling to understand the muted market reaction. Worst still Trump said he going to do this. Yet nobody believed him. Now he done it people have just shrugged. Coup de grace has happened yet nobody reacted. Only four groups that can stop Trump now. His cabinet can depose him. Congress and senate with supreme court are meant to act. Yet they are unlikely. Given the political risk and uncertainty surely that enough for markets to move?  Money men something Trump claims to focus on are not moving. That is puzzling.

Read more here

Brexit, Journal, Politics

Chagos island: The UK Last Colony and American Colony

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Chagos island: The UK Last Colony and American Colony

The Chagos Islands have been in the news a lot recently due to talks between the UK and Mauritius over control. Currently, they are a British Overseas Territory (UKOT), but the islands host a joint UK-US military base. The Americans lease the islands from the British, who, rather controversially, expelled the original inhabitants and replaced them with Americans working for the military.

Why Do the Islands Matter?

The Chagos Islands are slap bang in the middle of the Indian Ocean, with Africa to the west, the Middle East to the north, and Asia to the east. Back in the 1960s, during the Cold War, the Americans were worried about the Soviets and wanted a stable spot for a military base. The Middle East was a major focus at the time, and the 1970s were full of upheaval there. The UK kept the islands when Mauritius became independent because they were seen as vital for containing the Soviet Union. For decades, UK and US foreign policy have been closely tied, and the islands are just one example of that.

A Bit of History

For most of history, nobody lived on the islands. They were claimed by the French colony that became Mauritius, which eventually turned into a British colony. After Napoleon lost in 1815, Mauritius and the Chagos Islands were handed over to the British. The British had already redrawn maps, taking the islands away from the Maldives. Back then, there weren’t official borders or legal frameworks, but those decisions are still causing arguments today. For example, the Maldives is much closer to the Chagos Islands than Mauritius, which has led to disputes over fishing rights and sovereignty.

The first British colony on the islands was set up in 1793. Enslaved people were brought in to work on coconut plantations, and their descendants lived there until they were forcibly removed in the 1960s. Slavery was abolished in 1834, and by 1840, many of the islanders were descendants of freed slaves.

The Expulsion of the 1960s

In November 1965, the UK bought the entire Chagos Archipelago from Mauritius (which was self-governing at the time) for £3 million, creating the British Indian Ocean Territory. The plantations on the islands weren’t profitable due to competition from other oils and lubricants, making the economy unsustainable. The islands were closed to make way for military activities, and the population was forcibly removed.

Between 1967 and 1973, the UK expelled the islanders, sending them to Mauritius and the Seychelles. An agreement with the US required the islands to be uninhabited for military purposes. The Mauritian government resisted taking in more displaced islanders without compensation, so in 1973, the UK agreed to pay reparations. It’s a dark chapter in British history, adding to the country’s colonial legacy.

Legal Fights

Brexit hasn’t helped the UK’s reputation or influence, making it harder to rely on allies for diplomatic cover. For decades, no court would hear the case of the Chagos Islands. The European Court of Human Rights refused in 2012, which often gets overlooked. But in 2015, Mauritius won a case about fishing rights, with a ruling that the marine protected area around the islands was illegal. This boosted Mauritius’s claim.

In February 2019, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the UK should return the islands to Mauritius. The ruling wasn’t legally binding, but it added pressure. International law and global opinion have shifted against the UK.

Negotiations

When Boris Johnson was PM, he started talks about returning the islands. Liz Truss continued the process, and now, after two years, Keir Starmer has reached a deal. Under the agreement, sovereignty over the islands would go to Mauritius, but the UK-US military base would remain. You can read the deal here.

Not everyone is happy. The Chagossians were left out of the decision-making process about their homeland. The Maldives isn’t thrilled either, as the deal overrides its claims. It’s another messy outcome of Britain’s map-redrawing and colonial history. But the Maldives has supported Mauritius’s claim. Why? Likely for favoured access to fishing rights or other political interests. With pressure on the UK, Mauritius is likely to take ownership. Why jeopardise relations between Mauritius and the Maldives?

The Fallout

The deal has had a mixed reaction in the UK. Critics from across the political spectrum have attacked it, and the media has jumped on it as an opportunity to bash Labour. What’s frustrating is how many commentators ignored the issue when Boris Johnson or Liz Truss were involved. A quick search shows barely any articles from those same pundits. Now, they’re using it to attack a working-class leader without offering real insights. It’s more about scoring political points than genuinely caring about the islands.

Searching Hansard’s House of Commons records shows Chagos was mentioned about four times per year for decades. Mentions only started increasing in the 2000s, with 15 in 2001, 20 in 2016, and 34 in October 2024 when the deal was announced. Similar numbers appear when searching for “Chagos Islands” or “British Indian Ocean Territory.”

Geopolitics

The world has changed. Climate change means rising sea levels threaten the Chagos Islands. Mauritius has been getting closer to China, and the US isn’t the reliable ally it once was. If the base is so vital, why hasn’t the UK strengthened it or taken control? Why has the UK done so little about climate change? Instead, defence spending has been cut, and Britain’s influence is fading. Some critics still have an imperial mindset, refusing to accept that the UK is now a middle power with limited sway. Meanwhile, Starmer, being a lawyer, followed the ICJ’s judgment on principle, even though it wasn’t binding. The deal allows the base to stay under a 50-year lease, with payments to Mauritius for resettlement. Islanders can return, but not near the base.

The Trump Factor

Donald Trump’s likely return to the White House could complicate things. Any agreement about the UK-US base will need his approval, and he’s unpredictable. With the US growing more confrontational with China, the base becomes even more important. The region has seen countries drift away from America and the West. When Trump was first elected, the UK used him as an excuse to avoid tough decisions. Now, Britain is trying to stay close to both the EU and the US, which isn’t easy. Critics complain about Britain’s declining status but don’t want to fund the military properly.

What Do We Do?

Writing this blog post has been an eye-opener. I’ve learned about a dark bit of our colonial history that I knew little about before. Honestly, I’m torn on what we should do. The main options are:

  • A: Accept the deal with Mauritius. It’s practical, closes a dark chapter, and restores the UK’s global reputation.

  • B: Offer the Maldives the islands. Politically difficult, undermines international law, and seen as bad faith.

  • C: Offer the Chagossians ownership. Legally complex, diplomatically risky, and seen as illegitimate by many.

  • D: Ignore the issue. The deal is politically toxic, and without US support, it may stall.

  • E: Seek an EU deal. Unlikely, as the EU wouldn’t bypass international law, and trust in the UK is low.

The most realistic options are A (since a deal exists) and D (due to political challenges in passing it).

Torn on What to Do

I’d love to return the islands to the Chagossians and give them a choice, but it would be costly and politically fraught. The islands have military value, and maybe the lesson here is that we should get closer to Europe. Striking a deal with the US and Europe could be beneficial. It could also help tackle issues like African migration and piracy. However, aligning more with Europe risks conflict with an independent-minded America.

Final Thoughts

The Chagos Islands debate exposes uncomfortable truths about Britain’s colonial past and declining influence. Some see the deal as a humiliation; others view it as a pragmatic step in a changing world. The real issue is that parts of the UK still haven’t come to terms with the loss of empire. The question is: can Britain adapt to its new reality, or will it keep clinging to a fantasy?