Brian's Page vs DiDVids Forum: Different Strokes...

For a long time now, 14 great years and counting, Brian's Page (Or, BP as I like to abbreviate) has ruled the roost when it comes to DiD forums. Several others have come around and gone, but BP continues on.

But now there's a (relatively) new kid on the block. One that looks to have some staying power. DiDVids Forum, run by Anubis. I wanted to take a minute and look at the differences between the two, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.

Some of you may think this will be some sort of "hit" piece on BP, especially considering the recent flare up between myself and Brian, but you would be wrong.

First of all, this is not a competition. I want both sites to succeed and prosper, and all other web sites in our community as well. There's plenty of room for two DiD Forums/Discussion Pages. Hell, there's room for five for that matter. The more sites, of any type, the better for all of us, right?


Brian's Page

Pros: Steady and solid as a rock, BP has seemingly always been around. It was one of the very first sites I found when it arrived way back around `97. I don't know about the rest of you, but for me, my day almost always starts with a visit there. It's simply been an invaluable tool for finding scenes, be they popular or "holy grails". That time in service has led to an incredibly expansive database, and one that continues to grow. The video page is a personal favorite. You Tube links, links to HD clips, it's almost all there. Visiting BP is, above all, safe. There's no log-in to fuss with, rarely any spam, almost no flame wars, and the moderator keeps things tightly focused on relevant DiD topics.

Cons: Not having log-ins means people can skulk in and out anonymously, and means there's more spam than there would be if log-ins were required. You're extremely limited in what you can post and there's little or no wriggle room when it comes to formatting text. There's no preview feature, so you have to post something to see how it will appear on the page. With only one main discussion page, and that tight focus keeping things forever "on topic" for some, like myself, it often feels like a constricting python. The moderator will often come across as caustic and indignant if you make a mistake, small or not. You're allowed to argue, but right or wrong you're going to lose so it's often a moot point.

Bottom Line: Well run, secure, protected, and stable, BP is a bedrock site for our community. It would be a sad day indeed if Brian ever decided to close up shop. However, if you're looking for a place to spread your wings on a more varied group of topics, best to look elsewhere.



DiDVids Forum

Pros: A lot of freedom. There's an "Anything Goes" area where... anything goes. Post what you want, be it a slam, a rant, a joke, or whatever. No topic is disallowed... except for spam of course. But, even the regular discussion areas are very open to threads of all types and sorts. It might start out as a discussion on DiD scene and veer off into a debate on whether Coke is superior to Pepsi. (It is, BTW). A thread might be moved, but it's never deleted, and no one cuts off a discussion because it's not "on topic" or is "non-productive". Because you have to sign up and log in, there's a lot more control over your posts, including a preview. Also, no hit and run "anonymous" postings. You're accountable for what you put up there. There are some nice video threads as well, though at this point they're not up to the level of BP's video area.
This forum has been around for almost 3 years now, so while it hasn't had the life span of BP (What site's have?) it's been around long enough to see that it has some legs. 

Cons: When you first arrive, come in with a thick skin. You'll be tested to see how you react. Post something remotely dumb and you'll get ripped, and these guys know how to flame, believe me. It's childish yes, but the good news is, if you stand your ground and indicate that's not your cup of tea, they'll leave you alone (Pretty much) before long. On the other hand, if flaming back and forth is your fun zone, then you're free to roll on. Just understand you'll be playing with the big dogs and they hunt in packs. Still, basically, you're treated as you treat others once the main guys get to know you a bit. 
Even though there are log ins and previews, like BP, once you post something it's there unless a moderator deletes it. I wish they would change that.*

* Update: Anubis has made a change over at DVF that now allows a window of time to modify a post even after it's up. 


Bottom Line:  I see these two sites as a fascinating linear microcosm of the political debate in this country. On one side we have BP, where Brian (Big Brother government liberalism) watches over the site, offering controlled safety and security, but at the cost of having to do everything his way or the highway. On the other side, we have DVF, where you have a lot of freedom (Libertarianism) but not much of a secure zone or safety net.

Personally, I love the freedom. I can take care of myself and I don't need or want any "safety net". However, just as some people want the government to watch over many aspects of their lives, I understand this kind of forum may not be for everyone.

No matter what, I can't imagine a time when I would stop making BP a primary site I visit and post to regularly. It will always have it's place near or at the top. Still, I would like to invite everyone to stop by DVF and take a test drive. You may decide the forum there deserves a spot in your regular visitation spots.  

Like our great nation, there's room enough for both sides.

Memorial Day

There aren't too many holidays that really get to the ol' Greyman. Christmas? As a Christian and a sap for kids receiving gifts, absolutely. But Labor Day? Thanksgiving? New Year's Day? Ehh. To me, all those are mostly just football related time points. But Memorial Day, well, I really note and get inspired for this one. On this day, we honor our military. Those who fight and, especially, those who have died in service of our nation.

The United States military has never lost a war. American politicians and left wing media hacks like Walter Cronkite have screwed us up a couple of times, but left to their own devices, I have no doubt that our military would have made Vietnam and Korea singular, democratic nations. And yes, that extends to a couple of Republican Presidents as well. Bush elder royally screwed the pooch in `91. First, by getting the U.N. involved in the first place. 2nd by letting them tell us to stop before invading Iraq and killing off Saddam way back then. And 3rd by agreeing to stop and not telling the U.N. to go suck a duck. 


All Americans should thank every military person they meet at every opportunity. Next to the Bible, the U.S. Constitution is greatest document ever written. (I always find it interesting that the framers of the constitution held that first document in such high regard and used it as a moral compass for the second, much to the eternal consternation of most liberals who invariably fight to have the Bible, and it's influences, removed from all government entities.) However, in hard reality, it's really just a piece of paper. Rights, as well as laws, mean little without the means and ability to fight for them, to back then up by force if necessary. because they're are always those looking to take those rights away. Our military makes sure our sovereignty it always protected from outside forces. 


It can be a thankless task. One of my uncles returned from `Nam in 1969 after three tours. He flew in to California for a layover and saw another soldier get spit on, while he himself, a marine, was called a "MF'ing baby killer" and a "Nixon bitch". He always laughed at that one, because he was sent over there under Johnson, a democrat. Oh well.

That sort of thing doesn't seem to happen much anymore, but there are still those in this country who have a strong hatred for our soldiers, sailors and marines:

 

These people might as well be from Mars as far as I'm concerned. I'm serious. I am quite simply stunned so many Americans can act this way without being in a mental institution. As "Americans" they certainly have the right to say these things, but just because you have the right to say something doesn't mean it's the right thing to say. Also, do these idiots have any clue that our military fights to protect their right to act like fools and say stupid shit like this? Do they honestly believe Castro would allow them to protest like this? Or in China? I would love to send them to North Korea for an education on what real tyranny looks like.

Check that. I'd love to send them to North Korea period.

Anyway, I'm getting off my main topic. I just want to offer my deep and sincere admiration and thanks to all our military, wherever and whenever you may serve. Please know that they vast majority of America feels as I do. And to those who have lost their lives fighting for America, I pray that God has an especially wonderful place in heaven for your souls.

God Bless you. 

Be safe. 

Ungagables, A Few Rants, & Some Other Stuff

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THE UNGAGABLES

The great news for us gag snobs is that a quick look at the careers of most cute actresses reveals that, statistically, if they're in the business long enough, they likely will receive a gag at some point sooner or later. Indeed, an attractive actress with a long and healthy career who never gets gagged is actually an aberration. If you remove those ladies who's choice of roles all but eliminates any real opportunity (Such as Meryl Streep, who basically does nothing but films with virtually no chance of a scene, like Silkwood and Sophie's Choice) you get an even higher percentage.

Therefore, while a Teri Hatcher type career, loaded with gag scenes from multiple sources, is sadly quite rare, thankfully, so to is a uber-babe like The Hew (Jennifer Love Hewitt) completely avoiding anything even remotely resembling a gag.  Jen's had a long career both in the kind of films that have a decent statistical probability  of DiD scenes as well as a long running TV series that should have been conducive to a gag scene, yet she's been, well... ungagable.

So, all you future actresses, just know this: We gag snobs may get you a little too early (Kaley Cuoco) and we might get you a little too late (Elizabeth Taylor), but most of the time, we will get you, my pretties.

Insert diabolical laugh here.

NBA Fines Players For Saying "Faggot"

Recently the NBA fined Kobe Bryant 100 grand for ripping an official and using the word "faggot". A couple of days ago they nailed another player 50 grand for blasting some asshole in the stands with the same insult. If the NBA wants to fine players and coaches for using profanity on the court, I have no problem with that as many kids are usually in the stands and can hear that stuff. But the league has no issue with you screaming fuck bombs to your hearts content. Whisper the word "faggot" though, and they nail you.

I have a problem with that. Why is one insult so much worse than another? Because it's offensive? Pardon me, but isn't that the freakin' point of an insult, to be offensive? What if a white player is called a "cracker" or "honkie" by a black player? Will they get fined? Not likely. The N-word? Well, I could argue that's the exception that makes the rule, but we know black players can fire that one off at will with no repercussions. 

Supposedly, this was so bad because some basketball front office guy "came out" last week. So? And? More to the point, why do we even need to know that at all? Personally? I don't hate gays. I don't love gays. I... DON'T... CARE.

Live and let live is my moto, but if you try to force something on me, (You MUST love all things gay!) I'm going to react like I did when the media tried to "make" us love soccer or when Carter tried to shove the metric system on us. I'm going to revolt.

My issues with gays are their insistence on claiming special status as some put upon minority group as well as shoving their "gayness" in our faces and virtually demanding we like it.

Not going to happen.



Smoking Ban in NYC Parks Takes Effect 

Let me clear: I don't smoke. Never have, never will. I think it's a disgusting, nasty, invasive habit and you have to be a real moron to be a puffer. It doesn't make you look "cool" it makes you look like an idiot.   

That said, it just rubs my libertarian side the wrong way when smoking is banned outside in an area where people are free to come and go as they like. But even much worse, to me, are the bans on bars and restaurants allowing smoking. This one really goes against my grain because we're talking about a privately owned business. The very idea of the government telling me what I can do inside my business just bothers me to no end.  

All you democrats/liberals/socialists out there who like the government "solving" your problems, this is the kind of thing you get. Slippery slope people.



Poll Results: Bin Laden's Death

The results were basically on point with what I thought they would be, other than the three who felt Bin Laden should have gotten his day in court. My opinion on that is, (a) If he wanted his day that badly, he should have surrendered a long time ago, and (b) When you come out on video saying all of 9-11 was your plan and that you were so happy at how well it worked, it makes a trail a moot point. 



  
Philly Police Harass, Threaten to Shoot Man Legally Carrying Gun

One of the things I hear said by law enforcement (Real and actors) on TV and in the movies a lot is this line in one form or the other: 

"Well, at least we've taken another gun/some more guns off the streets."

What utter, completely silly, nonsensical horse shit.

I really could care less how many guns are "off the streets". What I do care about is, how many people who use guns/knives/bats/hammers/whatever to commit crimes are "off the streets". 

Remove the criminals. Leave our guns alone.

Two Asian Flicks Produce Scenes

I recently came across these two films with full treatment scenes.

Kinatay (The Execution of P) 2009

Missing 44 2010

As a film, Kinatay, made in the Philippines, is mostly flat and tedious, at least for awhile, Then the girl is snatched and things pick up from there a bit as she's bound and tape-gagged with stuffing for a trip with some bad guys to a house away from the main city. After that, things definitely do not go well for the lady, so be warned. Shot with hand-held cameras. I usually like horror/action flicks but this one seemed utterly useless to me. Other than the bondage, of course, but even that I didn't care for much as she's thumped pretty good in the face before they bind her. Fairly long scenes though.

Missing 44 is a Japanese Pinku flick about four teenage girls who are abducted, and tortured. Lots of restraints, a couple of gag scenes. 

I can handle some simple clipping but the scenes in these flicks are too spread out for me. What I did instead was to upload the films to Megaupload. I used HJSplit to break Kinatay into multiple parts.If you've never used it, HJSplit is a stupid-simple little freeware program that's 100% virus free.

Maybe someone with more skill than I can take a shot at clipping.

KINATAY Part 1

KINATAY Part 2

MISSING 44  

Enjoy.

Obama Does The Right Thing For The Wrong Reasons

First, I want to be completely, 100% crystal about this: I have absolutely no issues, problems, or moral dilemmas whatsoever about U.S. Forces waxing Bin Laden, whether he was armed, unarmed, on his knees begging for mercy, or making whoopee with one of his child brides.

That, however, according to Obama and his ACLU-lovin' sidekick Eric Holder, was not the proper way America was supposed to deal with terrorists.
  
Let’s try Terrorists in civilian court…Eric Holder’s idiocy Redux
  
Eric Holder: Terrorists and Osama Bin Laden Have Same Rights As Charles

Oops.

Nope, we were supposed to capture them alive, if at all possible, read them their rights like any other "normal" criminal, and give them their day in an American civilian court of law.


So, what happened? More to the point, where is the outrage and snide remarks from the left wing (An oxymoron, They're virtually all liberals) media?

Taking the second point first, unless Obama does something really crazy, like heaven forbid, stop an abortion, the media won't say a single bad thing about him, so forget that. It ain't happening. In their eyes, this guy is the closest thing they'll ever see to a living, breathing (Non-Christian, of course) Jesus. 

Seems clear now that Bin laden wasn't armed, so the idea he couldn't be taken alive is lame. Even if he was, I think a team of SEALs could still take this crud alive if required.

But Obama didn't want that. With gas prices sky-rocketing, with unemployment holding at almost 9%, with his stimulus package nonsense hijinks imploding, he needed a win. And not a liberal kind of win, a middle class America, kind of win.

It's been done before you know. In an act so blatantly obvious everyone but a democrat saw right through it, Slick Willie (Clinton) bombed Iraq at the exact same time he was getting impeached. 

I am not so naive as to believe that no Republican president has ever used the power of his office to deflect bad press away from him, but only liberals tend to use our military for such actions. 

Go ahead and smoke Bin Laden boys. We'll read the next terrorist guy his rights. 

Oh, those wacky libs and their vacillating morals.  


It would make me laugh if wasn't so sad, but in reality, the laugh is all on us.

This `n That For May, 2011

Just a few things here:

The Heels Have It.

In a vote that shocked, well, no one, it seems dastardly villains prefer their restrained damsels in heels by a overwhelming margin. Stilettos dominated 2nd place winner "bare feet" (51% to 21%). 3rd place was the upset, as it went to "other", beating out "socks" by a solid percentage. (11% to 5%). "Socks" in fact, finished in last place, losing out to even "don't care" (9%), meaning that less than one in ten of us could care less how our damsel's feet are attired. That number kind of surprised me.  

The real shocker though, was "other". To be honest, I included "other" as real afterthought. I'm just amazed it got as many votes as it did. I'm not even sure what it means exactly. Sneakers? Other than that, I can't fathom what "other" could pertain to. If anyone voted "other" and meant something besides sneakers, please respond and let me know. Just curious here.

ABK IV

When I finish a story chapter, even though I do spell check and all of that, there are invariably mistakes. What I should do is put the finished product aside and let it sit undisturbed for a few days, then go back and read through it again. I always catch a lot of stuff that way, but I'm usually so behind getting it out, I just post it and go.

Anyway, I went back and re-read the chapter, and corrected a lot of things. Nothing major, nothing that will alter the story, but if you want, the link now goes to the fixed version.

Interesting tidbit, chapter one, which even I thought was a bit lacking in damsel activity, has been downloaded almost twice as much as chapter two, which is loaded with DiD action. I find that... odd.

***
Just to be clear, I only post update notices at BP or elsewhere when I add new DiD related material. If it's of a political nature or something else, I just post it with no notices.


Question About Story Format...

Is everyone OK with my stories being posted in PDF format? I can also do XML, which is pretty much the same thing, only Microsoft's "version" of it. Why does MS feel the need to always create their own proprietary formats for everything? I might understand if they were usually better or more popular, but with  rare exceptions, the exact opposite is true.

If you use Adobe Reader, congratulations, you have one of the world's most bloated and needlessly pain-in-the-ass constantly updating PDF readers. I highly recommend uninstalling Adobe Reader and downloading/installing Foxit Reader.  It's freeware like AR, does everything AR does at a fraction of the size and it's MUCH less intrusive. It's under 8mb's compared to AR, which is at least 41mb. Also, Foxit updates are much less often, and a fraction of the size once again. Foxit also has plugins for IE and Firefox. It's so superior, it's not even funny. 


ENDURE

Endure is a great DiD film isn't it? I mean, hard to pick on a movie that has it's heroine literally bound and gagged for the entire film. Not only that, but in a real change from recent horror fare, (Spoiler Alert!) our damsel didn't get hacked up into a bloody mess, or have the living shit beaten out of her, or killed off at the end. Nice. She was kidnapped, placed out of the way bound and fairly tightly gagged, and rescued alive and relatively unharmed at the end. 

That's how it's supposed to happen, Hollywood people! Live it. Learn it. 

Nitpicks: I have a couple. That cleave-gag, while decently tight, literally kept Clare Kramer almost totally silent. That's ridiculous, and looked that way on screen. Would've been a much better scene with some realistic mmph'ing going on. 

Watched Endure this past weekend with my girlfriend (Who knows my ummm... leanings... in this area) and another couple who don't. When the part came up where the hunting dog finds her, my GF commented to the group about how Clare was unable to make any real sounds thru that gag. The other girl (Decently cute, but laughs really freakin' loud! Loudest laugh I have ever heard, man or woman.) agreed and said that she would be screaming her head off, gag or no gag. Her boyfriend said the thing to use was tape. I just sat there fighting the urge to go get some duct tape and play "Bondage Mythbusters". Let's test that theory, shall we?   

My GF laughed at me. I made her "pay" for my discomfort later on, believe me.

Second nitpick: Wouldn't it have been great to have Clare doing a voice-over during her captivity? I think that would have been awesome, myself.