Welcome back to Rewatching Smallville, my weekly dive into the iconic series that explores Clark Kent’s journey before becoming Superman. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, you’re invited to join in each Tuesday as I revisit episodes and share my thoughts and observations. Be sure to share your own memories and … Continue reading Rewatching Smallville – Episode 88
It’s Not Derivative. It’s Homage.
A funny thing happened in the comments section recently. I posted my latest Sunday short story here on The Confusing Middle — a science fiction piece that, as I was writing it, I couldn't help but feel the long shadows of other, bigger stories looming over my shoulder. You know the feeling. You're creating something, … Continue reading It’s Not Derivative. It’s Homage.
The Worst 32 – Rumpelstiltskin
Rumpelstiltskin 1987 Directed by David Irving Welcome back to Movie Monday, where I continue my journey through the cinematic wasteland of films that have earned permanent residence in my personal hall of shame. As always, the disclaimer: this list is purely subjective, shaped by my own experiences and tastes. If Rumpelstiltskin holds a special place … Continue reading The Worst 32 – Rumpelstiltskin
The Starfire Legacy
Captain Jayna Corvax stood on the bridge of the Crimson Marauder, her boots planted wide as the ship shuddered through another barrage of plasma fire. Red emergency lights painted her sharp features in dramatic shadows, highlighting the scar that ran from her left temple to her jawline—a souvenir from the Ganymede Heist three years ago. … Continue reading The Starfire Legacy
Question of the Week #477
Welcome back to another Question of the Week here at The Confusing Middle! Last week, Gregory Stock asked if I'd wear a voice-activated safety watch that tracked my whereabouts and could summon police with a shout. My answer was a pretty definitive "no"—partly because I don't wear watches, partly because my wrist breaks out in … Continue reading Question of the Week #477
The Influence of Canadian Productions on American Afternoon TV
I have a confession to make: for years, I thought You Can't Do That on Television was just another Nickelodeon show. You know the kind—loud, chaotic, vaguely educational in that way that made parents feel okay about letting you watch it while they made dinner. I watched kids get slimed for saying "I don't know." … Continue reading The Influence of Canadian Productions on American Afternoon TV
Archaeologist vs. Adventurer
There's a moment early in Raiders of the Lost Ark that perfectly encapsulates everything Indiana Jones is about. We see Dr. Henry Jones, Jr. in his natural habitat—a classroom at Marshall College, complete with tweed suit, bow tie, and wire-rimmed glasses. He's lecturing on archaeology to a room full of students, half of whom are … Continue reading Archaeologist vs. Adventurer
The Character Couch – Bella Swan
Welcome back to The Character Couch! Today we're examining what might be the most infuriating protagonist in modern cinema: Bella Swan from The Twilight Saga—a character who spent five films perfecting the art of weaponized helplessness while the narrative insisted we view her self-destructive obsession as the greatest love story ever told. "I dream about … Continue reading The Character Couch – Bella Swan
Rewatching Smallville – Episode 87
Welcome back to Rewatching Smallville, my weekly dive into the iconic series that explores Clark Kent’s journey before becoming Superman. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, you’re invited to join in each Tuesday as I revisit episodes and share my thoughts and observations. Be sure to share your own memories and … Continue reading Rewatching Smallville – Episode 87
The Worst 33 – Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers
Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers 1995 Directed by Joe Chappelle Welcome back to Movie Monday, where I continue my masochistic journey through the films that have left permanent scars on my cinematic psyche. As always, the usual caveat applies: this list is entirely subjective, shaped by my personal experiences and prejudices. If Halloween: The … Continue reading The Worst 33 – Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers
The Confusing Middle 