Whittle Waffle

Reviews and Launch of Into the Woods

2012-02-27T16:25:00.003Z

Here you can see our beautiful table all set up before the doors opened at Cardiff Comic Expo this weekend. The convention was great and I have to say we sold very well, which was a relief! Several of our artists - Simon Wyatt, StuArt Tipples and Conor Boyle sketched at various points over the weekend and it was great having Stu's original art (and Simons for awhile too) out on the table which generated a lot of interest too. From a newbie point of view this was a great convention to launch at, Mike Allwood made it as easy and smooth as could be and having Mr Conman on hand to help with the table, sign books in the tiniest writing you have ever seen and generally calm me down was brilliant. Also having wonderful table neighbours in the form of Futurequake Press LEGEND Dave Evans and Bearded Skull comics guys on the other side made the slow times pass far more quickly.

We have now had two reviews go up on that there internet, you can find one here from the fabulous Lizzie Boyle and another over at the Geek Syndicate website here if you should so desire to see such things I urge you to do so!

The big news is that the Big Cartel shop went live this morning so should you wish to purchase Into the Woods for yourself (and for what reason could you possibly not?) you can do so for five english pounds sterling plus p&p. Have a look and a shop if you like!

Into the Woods -is coming ATCHA!

2012-02-17T15:44:00.001Z

With just shy of a week to go until the Into the Woods launch - I have started sending the anthology out for review - if you are a reviewer and would like to review it please get in touch!

The first review is live and can be read here: on the Geek Syndicate Website

Most of the contributors will have received their copies today (save two I haven't posted yet as got their address' later) except the guys who will be at the launch.

Simon Wyatt, Stu Tipples, Alexi Conman, Conor Boyle and Rich McAuliffe will all be signing at our table during the weekend and Simon and Stu will have the original art there for you to have a look at too (maybe even buy!)

After the launch weekend I will activate the Big Cartel shop I have set up and Into the Woods will be available to buy online the shop can be found at my AyeSaw Comics page!

The stupidly talented Andy Bloor has just blogged about his process for designing the cover and he has some great pictures of the work in process on his blog

Madness

2012-01-06T14:57:00.000Z

Scott Harrison and The Lovely Lee Grice have collaborated on a story for Into the Woods called the Madness from the Sea. Scott has a little sneak peak available on his blog today if you fancy a look see?
http://scottvharrison.blogspot.com/2012/01/madness-from-sea-sneak-peek.html

Un Cover ed!

2012-01-04T16:04:00.001Z

I can finally reveal the cover of Into the Woods:A Fairytale Anthology. It's by the wonderful Andy Bloor with colours by Steven Howard. I think it's utterly beautiful and hope you do too!

Into The Woods - first looks

2011-12-02T13:00:00.001Z

If you'd like to have a looksee over at the lovely Lee Robson's website you shall see some wonderful Simon Wyatt artwork from their story The Lang Pack for Into The Woods. It looks amazing people, amazing!

http://www.imaginarystories.co.uk/2011/12/first-look-lang-pack.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+DreamNation+%28Dream+Nation%29

Strictly Come Dancing Week 9

2011-12-01T17:00:00.001Z

Anita and ~~Robin~~ Brendan – Cha Cha Cha

Ah, well. Not brilliant this is it? Anita’s spins are great and she makes them look very easy, but her little solo was well a bit easy and boring – it didn’t really work as a solo at all. She seemed very – to steal one of Len’s words – willowy in this dance and it just didn’t work. Except for Brendan who was lush, especially when he was singing along, aww cuteness!
Me – 6 Judges - 7,8,7,7 - oooh I’ve turned into the harsh one! Just call me Craig dahhhlinks!

Holly and Artem – Foxtrot

Their little introduction bit at the school dance was brilliant, I have really warmed to Holly throughout the series – which surprises me a little, I didn’t expect to like her and I really do. This was by far her best dance; she utterly owned it and she looked like a professional! It was very sexy without being in your face. The kick section is beautiful and absolutely the only thing that marred this dance was Artem’s hideous hat. What were they thinking?!
Me – 9 Judges - 8,8,9,9 - Ah Len not liking a modern take on a dance. He always marks down the exciting and inventive dances, which is really unfair but at least he is honest about it so the dancers know they are risking the WRATH OF LEN!

　
Alex and James – Charleston

Oh I’m feeling my inner Craig rising again. I didn’t like it very much, I didn’t like the frouhaha with the hats, and I didn’t think it was fast enough or kooky enough. I feel really disappointed. I think at this point in the competition I just expect more...more, y’know?
Me- 6 Judges 6,7,8,8 That Craig, he knows whereof he speaks yo!

Robbie and Ola - Samba

Another favourite intro here, how lovely are Robbie’s parents, I think they should come back next week too! Oh I am such a HATER this week. Lovely opening to the dance but after that, dull and lacking choreography again and seriously if a beautiful man whips his trousers off, a MASSIVE pair of shorts is not what we want to see now is it? Really? He just looked silly. I am very cross with Ola.
Me – 6 Judges – 5,7,7,6 - Len’s comments really made me laugh. It’s about time me and Len made up, the fighting can only go on so long.

Chelsee and Pasha – Argentine Tango
Oh, wow. I thought this was beautiful, both Chelsee and Pasha look amazing, all the flicks and kicks were exquisite. Beautiful, atmospheric and gorgeous dancing, I absolutely loved it. It was all there in Chelsee’s face. Lovely, and tons of content!

Me – 9 Judges – 8,9,9,9 Len should not judge on the intro bit, if he watched her face it was all there, she’s a beautiful actress. If that intro had not been shown how would that have affected the judges’ comments eh? Eh? Pah!

Jason and Kristina – Charleston

This dance was everything Alex and James was not, totally evocative of the time period, quirky, funny, over the top, fast and fabulous to watch! Jason is rocking the white suit and although it looks like my 5 year old did Kristina’s make up this was joyful!
Me – 9 Judges – 9,9,9,9

Harry and Aliona – Quickstep
This dance is just perfect. I think everyone should go and watch it again and just watch their feet! Bloody marvellous, I didn’t want it to end. He looks amazing, he looks like a pro and I’m gobsmacked by this performance. Lush.
Me- 10 Judges 9,10,10,10

SwingathonI think the order that couples were voted off matches my own thoughts exactly. Harry and Aliona were breathtaking. By far the best. My one criticism of this segment was that the camera work was very shonky. Very shonky indeed – it almost spoilt it for me. Please do better BBC!
Overall a bloody excellent episode of SCD, properly entertaining and I think leaving us will either be Robbie or Anita and rightly enough I think, but I will be very sad to see anyone go this week. I will be full of awwwwwing whoever goes!

Results Show aka Woo Hoo its Winkleman Time! I love the opening number (shaddup yes, it is really me talking!) beautifully elegant and very sexy. I loved the music as well. Lovely.
Holly in bottom two? Bah that is proper rubbish that is!
I do not understand the appeal of Cee Lo Green, I was a bit bored at this point. But the hints to next week’s Movie Night made me laugh and really start looking forward to it!
Anita is gone, awwwwwwwwwwwwwww but fair enough I think. I feel quite sorry for my Brendan as that must be a giant sized guiltfest right there!

Dancing With The Stars - Finale and Results Show - Just a little aside to say, I am over the moon that JR Martinez and Karina won DWTS they were my very favourite (along with Ricki Lake) and I leave you with their finale freestlye dance!

　
　
　
　
　
　
　

More SFX Bloggage

2011-11-24T08:06:00.001Z

The Blogbusters give their opinions on the upcoming Dr Who Movie

http://www.sfx.co.uk/2011/11/23/blogbusters-the-possible-doctor-who-movie/

Strictly Come Dancing Wembley

2011-11-22T16:47:00.001Z

Strictly Come Dancing – Wembley Extravaganza or Nice to see you to see you nice, <<nice nice nice nice>>

The Opening Number

Wow, Craig as Brian May, acrobats, cheerleaders, Harry and Brendan wearing matching outfits like some sort of personal early Christmas present. This is how you start a show. Fab- u-lous! Though as soon as the show resumes normal format the terrible echo becomes apparent and will stay for the whole show, a tiny bit off putting in the speaky bits.

Robbie and Ola - Salsa

Robbie’s intro bit had me laughing so much; he is properly lovely and funny. Sadly though this dance was far from his best, such a shame! I am not enjoying Ola’s choreography at all, and the poor bugger got another busted nose! I have to say though, he gives it welly and his facial expressions are brilliant! Don’t want him to go anywhere but think he may actually be in danger after this!

Me- 6 Judges-5, 7, 7, 7

Alex and James – Tango

Urgh, Bruce dancing. Double urgh someone in the audience shouting “c’mon Brucie” Bruce just got a yellow card from me. It would have been a red but he didn’t do a joke – hurrah!

James is seemingly fond of making Alex dance alone at the beginning, we’ve seen this a few times now so it’s a bit repetitive, aside from that, bloody great. Quite a difficult song to Tango to but they totally nailed it. Loved it, I also really loved her dress, completely lovely.

Me – 9 Judges -8, 9, 9, 9

Holly and Artem – Quickstep

Ok, this is not their best dance at all. Holly is back to looking uncomfortable and slightly ill at ease. Artem is great as he always is. But, they are one of the few couples making best use of the increased space. But I can’t be the only one wondering how different this dance might have been if she’d danced it with Brendan?

Me – 7 Judges – 7,8,8,8

Anita and Robin – Samba

Ahhh Anita, your smile could light that whole bloody ballroom, but your dance was a bit poo this week. Such a shame, what happened? Not a great dance, though I am sure at one point Robin kisses her nose, which made me melt a little this wasn’t a favourite of mine. Never mind, I’m sure Len loved it!

Me -6 Judges 6,7,7,7

Harry and Aliona – Salsa

I totally loved their Harry met Sally intro, it was very funny! Once again for me the highlight of the show, though Harry’s hips could’ve had slightly more wiggle, it was all in his face and in Aliona’s mesmerizing legs and that flip into splits? My goodness that was brilliant. I love these two, I could watch em all day long!

Me- 9 Judges – 8,8,9,9 * I’m done complaining about Len, he wasn’t too bad this week though so I’ll be the bigger person! :-D *

Russell and Flavia – Jive

Well that was a jive apparently! Bless. I have to say; as much as I have loved The Grant I think his time is up. The canon stunt at the beginning didn’t do it for me I’m afraid and the dancing was a bit shoddy. I will miss Strictly Come Panto very much but it’s getting near the final and it’s only fair the best dancers stay in!

Me – 5 Judges 5,6,6,7

Chelsee and Pasha – Samba

The opening to this dance with Chelsee behind a screen and dancing in silhouette is outstanding. She looks like a pro, they go on to have a few wobbles but it doesn’t matter at all. Full of energy, beautiful shapes and Chelsee singing away! I loved it. Harry and Chelsee remain my top two this week. Love it

Me – 9 Judges 8,9,9,9,

Jason and Kristina – Jive

Awwww, such a shame about that little bit of forgetting the steps! I could have hugged the poor bugger. And naughty, naughty Kristina sticking lifts in! Ooooh the judges do not like that! It was clever 80’s inspired choreography and I really liked the routine – aww well. I’m sure he’ll be fine!

Me – 8 Judges 8,8,9,9

Results show

Opening number is absolutely flipping fantastic, from the boys being the Beatles to Holly in *that* outfit looking jaw dropping to the highlight for me: Craig – I heart you – Revel Horwood giving it full beans on the dance floor (as Alex would say!) this is what’s been missing from the results shows lately. And The Winkleman, I love Winkleman Sundays!
A great show (except that Jesse James J Morrison rubbish – DULL) and a slightly predictable result...awwwwwwww! Buh bye Mr Grant, we loved you, we salute you. You are a mirror ball star!

New Bloggage

2011-11-22T12:12:00.001Z

My review of this weekends Thoughtbubble comic convention is up on the SFX Magazine website

http://www.sfx.co.uk/2011/11/22/blog-thoughtbubble-a-comic-convention-for-all-the-family/

Strictly Report Week 7

2011-11-16T13:28:00.001Z

Strictly Come Dancing- Week 7

What do you mean I missed a week? All I will say about last week is that poor Jason was utterly robbed and though I was sad to see ~~Brendan~~ Lulu go I thought it was fair enough really. Oh one more thing how flipping ROCK is Artem to dance with a fractured spine! He is simply amazing and it was by far Holly’s best dance.

OK, this week we see that because of said injury Brendan sexy bum is dancing with Holly but Artem is still choreographing the dance and off we go!

Alex and James – Jive

I thought this was alright, not outstanding (for outstanding jive action I direct you to watch this clip from Dancing with the Stars; JJ Martinez, American actor and war hero KICKS BOTTOM dancing a Jive to which they’d just been give the music they were dancing to 20 minutes earlier! )

I hated the little rag doll malarkey and I really disliked the song choice but I think she did a pretty good job.

Me – 7, Judges – 7,8,8,8

Robbie and Ola – American Smooth

Arggh I found this a bit dull, I still love Robbie though and am rooting very hard for him to make it to Wembley. I think Ola’s choreography is a bit lacking this week. I feel guilty so moving on!

Me – 7, Judges – 7,8,8,8

Audley and Nat – Char Char Char darlink

I’m going to sound mean, he’s so sweet and a bit barking but it is so, so time for Audley to go, he barely danced, it seemed like Natalie was just dancing around him. I didn’t like it at all. Oh what a big grump I am this week!

Me – 5, Judges – 3,6,6,5

Harry and Aliona – Argentine Tango

All grumpiness vanishes in a cloud of passion as Harry and Aliona live and breathe an exquisite Argentine Tango. They look amazing, their dancing is so beautiful and sharp and dangerous. I LOVED THIS!

Me – 10, Judges 9, 8, 10,10 - *insert usual Len hates Aliona whinge only with added vigour and disbelief and maybe a ball of yarn thrown at his big stupid telly face*

Jason and Kristina – Vienese Waltz

Beautiful and romantic, this is never one of my favourite dances but I really enjoyed this very much, very elegant and soft. Very nice indeed Mr D, hope your marks reflect your actual dancing and not any other stupid thing!

Me – 9 Judges- 8,9,9,9,

Chelsee and Pasha – Foxtrot

WOW! I didn’t even recognise Chelsee sitting on that piano! Her posture was amazing, her head held at such an elegant angle. And although I did spot that little hop near the end I was amazed at the quality and elegance of this dance. Beautiful!

Me – 9 Judges- 9,8,10,9 *saying nothing about bloody Len here nothing at all!*

Anita and Robin – Argentine Tango

Couldn’t help but compare to Harry and Aliona and it didn’t live up for me. I loved the choreography but I don’t think Anita quite pulled it off. Her legs are far more elegant than her arms, which look a bit stiff and distract from the movements. I say as if I know what the heck I’m talking about. I’ve watched all 9 series I’m an expert doncha know!

Me- 7, Judges – 7,9,8,9, - *who is Len kidding? Seriously though! Bloody ridiculous, I feel quite furious*

Holly and ~~Artem~~ Brendan – Rumba

Really difficult situation for Holly which I think she is handling really well, and she seems to really get a kick out of having both boys around – and who can blame her? She manages to have some flirty eyes going on with Brendan, which is never there when dancing with Artem and I wonder if Holly is actually struggling with the press surrounding the Strictly dancers and rumours of problems with Artem and Kara Tointon. If that’s the case it’s a real shame.

Me – 8, Judges, 8,8,9,9

Russell and Flavia – American Smooth

Nothing like any other American Smooth I’ve seen and you either I bet! Aw Russ, fabulous entertainment and his dancing is actually pretty good this week, he really is showing improvement – not that it matters a jot. This is fabulous darhhhling and so is he!

Me – 6 Judges -5,7,7,7

Results show

Not very impressed at all with the pro dance again, the boys section much better than the girls but still! Robin and Kristina’s contemporary dance however... oh my goodness, I had a little tear. Robin has never looked so utterly masculine and in control and every one of those tricks looked natural and beautiful. Absolutely gorgeous, this is the pro’s chance to show off and these two really went for it, the music was beautiful too.

Erin and Anton also prodded serious buttock in their dance. It’s lovely to see the pro’s look like they’re really letting go and showing off! Good stuff. Also the Winkleman – have I mentioned my deep love? I heart that there Winkleperson!

I think Audley leaving is fair dos, whoever goes next week will however be a wrench; I love this cast now and can’t wait for Wembley week. Bring it on!

I leave you with an idea - let's start a petition to steal Dancing With The Stars fabuous Derek Hough who would rival even Brendan in the bottom department. Hubba!

Into the Woods

2011-11-14T13:47:00.001Z

The very fabulous and wonderful and chronically talented Sara Dunkerton has posted a couple of panels from her and Rich McAuliffe's fab take on Red Riding Hood from Into the Woods, on her here blog - what are you waiting for? Have a look see

Couple of SFX bloggy bits

2011-11-14T13:41:00.001Z

I have written a bit about Star Trek The Next Gen episode Yesterdays Enterprise here like and have a bit in the latest Blogbusters about superpowers over here oooh exciting, well for me possibly not you :-D

Strictly Come Halloween!

2011-11-02T13:01:00.004Z

Strictly Come Dancing – Halloween Special

Opening Dance

Jason’s enthusiastic scenery chewing is the highlight of this slightly disappointing opening number. Its choreography is lack lustre, though the costumes and make up are outstanding. Craig’s arrival on broomstick – fab-u-lous dahlink!

First Of All

This distracted me all the way through the entire show, what the bloody hell has Alesha got stapled to the front of her dress? Is it some kind of comforter/duvet? Did she just have a load of material left over when the dress was made and didn’t want to waste it? Was some Halloween ghoul attacking her? It wobbled about when she got excited and made her look like a right twonk. I couldn’t take anything she said seriously. She did a little harsh judging this episode – I think it was totally to distract from the duvet attacking her – it didn’t work Alesha, it didn’t work!

Another thing – what is going on with the rehearsal segments, there’s no rehearsal just bonker, madness. I can’t decide if I like it or not.

Flavia and Russell – Samba

Flavia looks amazing, but I don’t think Russ and Flav delivered either enough dance to make this passable or enough comedy. A bit disappointing and middling but I still love them and don’t think they’ll be in any danger whatsoever!

Me – 5, Judges – 4,6,6,6,

Chelsea and Pasha – Tango

As they appeared on screen – I said to my A Man, blummin hell, look at her chubobblies they’re a bit in your face. And so if you have barely contained breasts and lots of movement inevitably this will lead to disaster darling. Poor little thing though, she’s so young and it must have been horrid for her. This dance did not live up to last week’s promise, it seemed a little wobbly (no pun intended) and not as sharp as it could’ve been. I find Pasha wonderful to watch though, he’s great!

Me- 7, Judges – 7,8,9,8 (Alesha’s is a pity score I think, which is patronising!)

Audley and Natalie – Jive

Man, I didn’t like this at all. I also thought that Natalie didn’t dance anywhere near her usual standard and wondered if she was actually dumbing down her performance so as not to show Audley up. Costumes and music were great though and my daughter Tala (aged 4) asked me if the girl was a “baddie” because she looks like Poison Ivy offa Batman, I said yes. Mwahahahahhah. The Audly monologue with on the balcony was a bit weird but very funny!

Me – 4 Judges – 3,6,6,5

Alex and James – Paso Doble

This is one of my favourite songs and it was performed beautifully. Alex looked amazing and confident and this dance was full of drama and great storytelling which really suited the music. I really liked this and it was defo Alex’s best dance so far. Real improvement for her this week, lush.

Me – 8 Judges – 7,8,8,8

Holly and Artem – American Smooth

Another massive round of applause for the makeup peeps here – they both look so beautiful. I thought the theme of the dance (or “concept” as Alesha the duvet monster kept calling it, probably to sound like she knows what she’s talking about!) was beautiful it was by far the most unusual American Smooth and in fact Halloween dance I’ve seen and I really loved it. It suited Holly very much and as Len said, “What a number!” Which I think sums it up nicely.

Me – 9 Judges – 8,9,9,9,

Nancy and Anton – Rumba

Aw Nancy rumba walk makes her look quite mannish which I think entirely defeats the purpose. Anton looks a bit hawt in his spangled pants and silver fox hair- who knew? The dance is just awful though. Badly arranged and badly performed, Anton looks like he has just given up –I think that’s a big shame actually. His stand up routine following the dance was brilliant though! Lens comment “It had moments of Mills and Boon and moments of Meals on Wheels” made me snigger but I felt bad about the snigger, just so you know! I think this is probably it for her now.

Me – 2 Judges – 2,5,3,4

Harry and Aliona – Tango

Wow, fabulous music, dancing, characters, storytelling, filled with romance, seduction and drama. Everything and the kitchen sink in this sexy, classy and gorgeous dance. That final neck twisting fall to the fall Aliona does is just flawlessly beautiful and breathtaking. My favourite dance of the night by quite far, I LOVED IT! I also still have Psycho Killer playing in my head.

Me – 10 Judges – 8,7,10,9 – gah Len you divvy – last season’s low marking for Aliona’s dances is back with vengeance I think – not that I’m still bitter or anything!

Robbie and Ola – Paso Doble

Ok look, I’ll be straight with you, I laughed at Bruce’s intro joke. Just a little guffaw, I still feel dirty actually, I think perhaps I’ll never be clean again. This means however me and A are over our break and off to Central Perk for a giant latte!

Robbie – dawwwww you’re so adorable this dance was utterly looks and comedy over dance content, but it was just worth it for the look on Craig’s face at the end. Comedy Genius – FACT! A little disappointing from Robbie but I still love him, and don’t think he’ll be in any danger!

Me – 6 Judges – 4,7,8,7

Anita and Robin – Tango

Didn’t like this very much to be honest, it was a bit wobbly and a bit dull and I’m sure the judges watched a different dance to the one I saw. I still find Anita adorable and lovely but I think she can do way better than this.

Me – 6 Judges – 7,8,8,8, (Len shurrup bout Harry’s dance it was so, so much better than this!)

Sexy, sexy, lovely Brendan and Whatshername – Paso Doble

Great opening! I actually like Lulu, she’s a bit of her sweetheart but she does look really ragdoll like and wobbly throughout this dance but she really is improving every week and she deserves a big credit for that. Entertaining dance if not technically great – you go Lulu girl, keep the sexy butted boy in!

Me – 7 Judges – 6,7,8,8

Jason and Kristina – Quickstep

Loved this, the Midwife is back and giving diamorpine and gas and air willy nilly! This dance was charming and there was something sort of beautifully old fashioned about it that I just loved and it really suited their music. Jason I think may be proper bonkers and I love him. Great choreography from Kristina again, she and Aliona are really knocking it out of the park this series making some of the other pros look wanting as far as I’m concerned.

Me- 9 Judges – LEN SHUT UP! 9,9,10,9

Overall

A real mixed bag for me tonight, some really disappointing numbers and a couple of outstanding ones, I think Audly and Nancy will be in trouble and rightly so.

Results Show

Compared to last week’s outstanding results show I found this one a bit disappointing. I like that Tess had gotten dressed up as Kelly from the Misfits!

The pro’s dances I found disappointing again (though Pasha stood out in that first dance – very good) which I think they have no excuse for. But The Winkleman makes up for most things. I HEART The Winkleman – have I mentioned it?

All sense of tension in the show was wiped out for me by my beloved boyfriend TELLING ME who went out before I had a chance to see it! Git. You’re no better Wilson – I’m watching you! So Nancy left us and really I think that’s fair enough and so will The A Man when he stops crying!

More (sorry!) Strictly Stuff

2011-10-26T17:53:00.000+01:00

Strictly Come Dancing Week 4

I was dead keen to introduce the presenters in the style of a bingo caller (novelty prophylactic dress – Tess and someone stick his head in a noose – Bruce) The A Man however feels this may be going too far. I take his sage advice.

1) Jason and Kristina – Paso Doble

So the midwife hits the floor and is slightly less confident this week, however Kristina once again delivers brilliant and engaging choreography so maybe she should have that nickname! Once again massively entertaining and a great start to the show!

My Score – 8 Judges Score – (harsh in my opinion and Alex thinks it's a fix) 6,7,7,7

Sad news, the A Man has already laughed at one of Bruce's jokes and we are now “on a break” oh dear!

2) Alex and James – Rhumba

My utter contempt and hatred for Bruce grows steadily with every single introduction and I know by the end of the show I will be filled with a passionate fury, why just why can't we have The Winkleman eh? Anyhoo, Alex in her lacy leggings and push up bra looks beautiful but this dance is deadly dull, nowhere near the heights James reached with Artem last year http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiX0bSspyQs I think Alex is popular enough not to have to worry too much but this could and should have been by this point, much, much better!

My Score – 6 Judges Score- 4,7,7,7

3)Rory and Erin – Cha Cha Cha dahhhhhhhling

Aww Rory you are so lovely, and your chest is sooo nice and you're a little bit geeky and I currently have a space in my life for a sexy, slightly self conscious, geeky boy with a nice chest. Siiiiiiiiighhhhhh. If only he let himself go and didn't worry he could be brilliant. I'm a bit in love I am. But what in heavens name have they dressed Erin in? Urgh, it's making me feel all Gok Wan and outraged.

My Score – 7 Judges Score – 4,7,6,7

4) Audly and Natalie - Foxtrot

I'm trying hard not to complain about Bruce's intro everytime but I swear he's making it difficult. So Audly and Ballroom Barbie take the floor for another slice of dull dancing, Audly is a bit adorable but jeez this was dull, and stiff and just not my cup of tea. Possibility of bottom two for this one

My Score – 6 Judges Score 6,7,6,6

(Bruno said Audly looked almost fairylike – this amused me ridiculous amounts, possibly cos of the dullness of the dance, needed a laugh!)

5) Nancy and Anton – Pasa Doble

“oooh” drools Monsieur Le A Man, “she looks like a sexy pirate lady”

Ah bless her, she's not got a lot of grace has she? Still some great tricks, which I watched from behind my fingers as it wasn't very comfortable viewing somehow. She is proper bonkers, I hope she stays around a bit longer as I find the bonkers a bit endearing.

My Score – 6 Judge Score- 3,5,5,5

6)Lulu and Brendan – Samba

Brendan in full on Patrick Swayze mode is just gorgeous to watch, too lovely in fact as I completely failed to look at Lulu beyond registering that her hair was freaking enormous. Enormous!

My Score – 9 but right I was just watching a pro so a bit bias! Judges Score – 5,6,7,7

7)Holly and Artem – Waltz

Was that an actual flash of life in Ms Valance's eyes? I think it was, a bit mistakey a little bit jumpy but definitely my favourite performance of hers so far. Less Rachel Stevens and much more warm blooded performance – I approve!

My Score – 7 Judges Score – 7,7,8,8

8)Chelsea and Pasha – Quickstep

I loved this. Energetic, elegant, graceful and really fun, I have no negatives and no pithy comments, it was perfect – I loved it – the end!

My Score – 9 Judges Score – 9,9,9,9

9) Harry and Aliona - Waltz

Aww Harry, you've got it now, perfectly in character, a gorgeously romantic, utterly lovely performance, so, so beautiful, I loved this too!

My Score – 9 (aww poor Aliona, Len you're divvy – fact!) Judges – 8,8,10,9 (wooo first 10 of the series – but its from Alesha so we all know it means less!)

10) Anita and Robin – American Smooth

Finally a nice outfit for Anita, and her ear to ear grin makes it hard to find her anything but adorable. It was a perfectly nice dance, a few little mistakes but overall elegant and fitting. Nice. I am now utterly sure Len has the big fat hots for the lady!

My Score – 7 Judges Score – 8,8,8,8

11) Robbie and Ola – Jive

Aside from total lack of hip movement and who gives a rats arse about that anyway, this was pure entertainment, Robbie was on fire! Loved the hair tossing, the kicks, the gurning at the camera, the utter joy that was written all over him. Not the best dance but my utter favourite so far of the night. Robbie kicks bottom – fact!

My Score – 8 Judges Score – 5 (aw Craig you git!) 8,7,7

12) Russell and Flavia - Tango

He who can no longer be named because of his Bruce love, points out that the gurning at the beginning is very like Zoolander, ha he is dead on the money, Russell has both Blue Steel and Magnum down pat! Camp, nutty, slightly odd but fun. Great closer for the show, utter madness. But so funny, camp and brilliant – how can you not love it?

My Score – dancing 5, entertainment 8, Judges Score – 5,6,6,7

My guess for bottom is Lulu, Nancy or possibly Audly!

Results Show

Ah Winkleman, why can't it always be you? This is how good it should be on Saturday's! This results show was 100 per cent better than last week. The opening number was great and really fun. Pasha and Katya's jive/lindyhop was brilliant fun and Flavia and Vincent... I barely have words for how utterly fantastic their Argentine Tango was. So, good and a nice reminder of what the Pro's are capable of. Brilliant show, loved it right up until, oh know, oh Rory, oh baby, our love was so brief and it really didn't last long enough. For years I've found your comedy slightly beyond me or slightly irritating, I didn't know you were a gorgeous, geeky boy under it all with a chest like that! Oh Rory, I might have had a tiny little tear escape. Call me mmmmokay!

Strictly Stuff

2011-10-17T13:39:00.001+01:00

So my lovely friend at work who knows I'm a big Strictly O' Holic asked if I fancied writing a bit of a report type thing each week after the show. I enjoyed writing it so much I decided to stick it on my blog - knowing probably only Lovely Lee, Delicious Iz and Beautiful Bevis are likely to read it but hey, it's my blog innit! So here we go:

Strictly Come Dancing – BROADWAY BABY

Opening Number: - Eh? Is this it? But...But its Broadway, they could do anything! Who’s the choreographer, let’s find out so I can punch them!

Intro: - Once again I fail to listen to what the old bugger and the plastic lady are saying as I stare and stare at Barbie Tess’ face, there’s definitely been work done. Oooh and now the parade of outfits at the beginning, I like this part! The A Man thinks Nancy looks HAWT, he drools a bit. I think Brendan looks HAWT, I am too classy to drool! I think the SCD bods have seriously missed a trick on the red button commentary malarkey; they could have had The Winkleman and The Winkler! Man I would’ve paid money (not really) for that!

1) Holly and Artem - Tango

Much better in the cage than out, I am distracted by the funny big knickers things they have her wearing. Poor girl, very unflattering. Artem is rocking this tango far more than Holly who has the cold, dead eyes of Rachel Stevens. My score=6. Judges score= 7,8,7,8

2) Dan and Katya - Vienese Waltz

Dan is so charming and funny in the rehearsal segments it really makes me wish he was a better dancer. This is his best dance so far but it’s just dull. There is absolutely no hint of Broadway in this number and I think it will put Dan in danger.

My score= 6 Judges score=5,7,6,6

3) Anita and Robin – Jive

Jesus! What do these two have on their heads! Why do they keep dressing Anita in such odd outfits? I love Anita, she’s adorable and though I think this is a bit of a crap jive I don’t want her to go anywhere, don’t think she’ll be in danger, she seems to be a bit of a fav with the judges, maybe Len has a bit of a crush going on?

My score=6, Judges score= 6,7,7,7,

4) Alex and James - Vienese Waltz

Alex has found some grace; she looks absolutely stunning and so graceful, if a bit stiff in theface. Very simple but lovely routine.

My score= 7, Judges score= 8,8,8,8

5) Rory and Erin – Quickstep

Who knew Lionel Blair was still ganning like? Well ya bugger! Really nice Hollywoody feel to this dance, I think Rory is doing well, and by the way was totally robbed last week – he should’ve got an 8 just for his shimmy. That was the best male celeb shimmy since Mark whatsisface the cricketer dude – fact!

My score= 7 Judges score= 7,8,8,8

6) Lulu and Brendan – Rumba

Bah stupid cape covering Brendan’s lovely posterior, I disapprove, erm, yes, anyway, very nice and floaty, Lulu looks amazing, enjoyed this. I heart Brendan though think he shouldn’t be allowed to talk as it spoils him. My mother thinks exactly this about David Beckham, I think maybe we are bad people!

My score= 7 Judges score= 5,7,7,7

7) Nancy and Anton – Tango

The A Man becaume suddenly very interested in the dancing, put’s the laptop down and everything. I would complain but well, see 6). I have to say, Anton is rocking that hat, I really liked this, I find these two a hilarious double act, and her actual dancing is better this week. Am I the only one who thinks she looks like the cougar type lady from Dirty Dancing?

My score = 7 (entertainment factor has to be a consideration!) Judges score= 4,5,5,6

8) Audley and Natalie – Quickstep

Natalie always does interesting choreography and you can see she’s tried to play to his strengths. I liked this, bit of comedy, bit o fancy footwork. Not outstanding but perfectly nice. I approve.

My score = 7 Judges Score= 5,6,6,7

9) Robbie and Ola- Tango ROBBIE FOR THE WIN, yes, yes, ok, I have Robbie in my works Sweepstake – shuddup! What was up with the camera work in this dance, missed most of it in the stupid swooping and close-ups! I hate that! Really liked Robbies grrrrr man face think he had the Tango character really well. Not quite as good as last week but still pretty fab actually.

My score= 7 Judges score= 7,7,8,8,

10) Russell and Flavia- Foxtrot

Russell has brought out the best in Flavia, making her likeable for the first time for me. He’s so sweet and funny and adorable and loving the dancing so much that you can’t really do anything but appreciate the comedy, camp genius. The dancing is a bit, well, crap but it really doesn’t matter at all.

My score = 6 Judges score = 6,7,7,8

11) Jason and Kristina- Tango

(brief note before dancing commences, A Man has now laughed at two of Bruce’s “jokes” he has been warned there is a three strike and you’re out policy now implemented as well as my scorn and general disappointment in him. You let me down honey!) Ok, this dance, highlight of the whole series so far! I loved every bloody second of this, the campest, bestest Tango ever. Jason singing parts of it and his grrrrrrr tango face can just not be beaten. Kudos to Kristina for very clever and hilarious choreography and for keeping a straight face herself throughout. MARVELLOUS!

My score= 9 Judges score= 9,9,9,9

12) Chelsea and Pasha – Cha Cha Cha

Firstly Bruce’s “wicked” jokes made me want to head butt the old git, I feel he presents a justifiable case for enforced retirement and for bringing in The Winkleman. I love The Winkleman probably a bit too much! Ok, dance, it was really good, tons of actual content and complicated and interesting choreography. I love Pasha and really think they are both doing well and not really getting good feedback, making Chelsea and Pasha the new Matt and Aliona (whose scoring last year INFURIATED me!)

My score= 8 Judges Score= 6,8,8,8,

13) Harry and Aliona – Jive

Harry WAS Danny Zuko, first time we have seen him properly in character – his absolutely best dance by far, he is also getting that lovely dancers bum, which I think might be due to getting the posture right. I absolutely loved this – Aliona being one of only two pro’s who I think understood the “Broadway” concept. Brilliant way to end the show! Oooh and Bruno now at his mental best!

My Score= 9 Judges= 8,8,9,8

Overall – The pro dances (including the one on the results show) were the worst performances of the show(s)! Really disappointing. Holly and Anita were my least favourites. Jason and Harry my absolute favs, and Robbie and Chelsea I really enjoyed too. I think Dan might be in danger – neither nowt nor summat that dance.

LOSER OF THE WEEK – Bruce! Sorry, no. Dan, awww Dan, I think your pro let you down! Bless ya cotton socks.

Notes – I scored before the judge so wasn’t influenced by them. Crikey that’s a lot of writing, sorry! J

Into The Woods

2011-10-13T11:59:00.001+01:00

Is finally starting to come together. I have three of the stories almost completed and they are so good I could cry.

We have a new bod joining the ITW team and that is lovely chap Filip Roncone - fellow 2000AD geek! He is going to be doing the lettering for Amber And The Egg, by Nic Papaconstantinou and art by Bevis Musson. The art for this story is finished and sublime. Bevis' linework is so perfect it's ridiculous.

Also joining the team is fabulous artist Andy Bloor, he has produced a really gorgeous back cover for the anthology, which I can't wait for you guys to see. Andy is also going to be designing the book and helping me stick it all together.

We shall be launching at Cardiff International Comic Expo in February, I have a table booked (and also will be co hosting the Dredd at 35 panel with the beautiful Iz McAuliffe - come and see us!) and am hoping that we sell well. It is both a terrifying and terrifically exciting thing.

Comic Book Outsiders

2011-07-20T15:43:00.000+01:00

I was really chuffed that the lovely Stephen Aryan asked me on CBO to chat about the Dresden Files. They are one of my most favourite series of books and the opportunity to have a good old gas about my deep love for Harry Dresden, was too good an offer to refuse And you can listen to it here

This is also a good opportunity to redirect you to a blog I wrote for SFX magazine on a similar topic I really do love Harry

New SFX blog

2011-07-11T11:44:00.000+01:00

I have a new blog at SFX Magazine for your perusal.

Megacast Episode 6

2011-07-07T11:11:00.000+01:00

So the latest very late Megacast is now live you can download/listen here

I know, I know there are another 2 Megazines released since then, but first I was ill (shingles ergh) and then life got in the way, but finally it's done, and out. I love podcasting with Iz, it's like being in the pub with my mate yakking about comics. Really fun.

The Fairytale Anthology

2011-07-05T22:56:00.000+01:00

It's been a little while since closing time on submissions for my fairytale anthology so I thought it might be quite nice to do a little update and give you lovely peeps a look at the full contributor list. I have some absolutlely wonderful creators involved with this project and I'm over the moon with the response and literally can't wait for artwork to start hitting my inbox.

First things first, the title, dum dum duuuuuuuuuuuuhhh:

Into The Woods: A Fairytale Anthology

And the fabulous contributers and their websites are:

1) Matt Gibbs and Alice Duke

2) Alexi Conman and Dunk Nimmo

3) Nick Papaconstantinou and Bevis Musson

4) Richard McAuliffe and Sara Dunkerton

5) Scott H arrison and Lee Grice

6) Daniel Clifford and David Wynne

7) Lee Robson and Simon Wyatt

8) Ollie Masters and Valia Kapadai

9) stu.art aka Stuart Tipples

I'd also like to share with you all a couple of tasters to whet your appetites, lovely character designs by the superb Sara Dunkerton and brilliant Bevis Musson!