Tag Archives: production

BADaptations #Outlanders on the bright side.

by

I need to have a little fun. The whole world is NOODLES N NUTS!

We are on the countdown for season 5. Everyone is getting antsy. There is a lot of activity on the Outlander Starz accounts. W Network is gearing up for us Canadians. I’m doing Meme reruns getting jacked for the live tweets every Sunday night followed by, what I hope are some interesting blogs.

For now, I’m going into Imaginationland.  There is always a lot of discussion in the fandom about deviation from the books.  If you have read my blogs before you know my stance on the books vs the show. There really is no vs. for me. They stand alone.  I have been reading the books for 25 years, pretty much know them inside and out. The show has to be a different thing, so I can fully enjoy the experience. Others do it their way, that’s cool. That is what makes the world go ’round. Well, that and gravity sciency stuff.

We have all seen movies, tv shows and mini-series created from books that have been slaughtered by the production company once they had the rights.  I still see people claiming that has happened to Outlander.  I disagree with those assessments. Here, I am going to show you what I envision a REAL slaughter looks like.

 

 

This is a GAG blog. A few things I have pulled out of my thinker that Outlander’s writers COULD have done if they so chose to. I’m not sure everyone is aware they could have done whatever they wanted and still had an audience. It may not have been you or I but it would have been someone.

I recall, in the beginning, many claimed Ron D. Moore and the writers had a love affair with Frank. They percieved this odd amount of empathy was given to his character and with too much screen time. He was Claire’s husband, it made sense to me to show his story, however, if they REALLY loved Frank so much they could have made him a much bigger part of the story.

What if? What if at the moment when Frank and Claire were at the stones at Craigh na Dun, appearing at the same time (200 yrs apart), the power of her desire to see him PULLED him through the stones?  Before you say that never could have happened. The writers are all-powerful in their storytelling. They can make anything they want, happen.  We are just lucky they didn’t.

frank feels

We all recall when Jenny was nearly raped by Black Jack Randall. Remember the nasty gossip that Dougal told Jamie?  That Jenny had a child as a result and BJR was the father? That would make for a juicy storyline, wouldn’t it? Almost too juicy for writers to pass up.

Here we could be, Jenny has BJR’s child. Ian still marries her because he loves her and raises the child as his own because that’s what the men on Outlander do, right?  BJR comes to Lallybroch frequently trying to steal the baby, it’s an added side story.  Oh, you know – extra drama! Most writers on TV want drama above all else and this story has years of drama written all over it.

giphy-11It didn’t really happen. Shh…

Ron Moore is currently involved in a super cool show called For All Mankind. The series explores an alternate history showing what happens if the space race never ended and the Soviet Union succeeded in the first manned Moon landing. Let’s put Outlander in that same headspace, shall we?

Since we are clearly aware Mr. Moore isn’t afraid of taking chances, like changing history. We should probably be happy that he didn’t get that itch out of his system with Claire becoming the ‘time traveller that could’. What if that became part of our epic new drama? Hmmm.

Culloden? WINNING! Bonny Prince? Bonny KING, thank ya, kindly. Jamie, no prison for you! You and all the Scots that battled so bravely now have your independence.  That’s a story for the ages, is it not? Yes. This could have been a thing and people would still watch. There would still be blogs. They might suck but they would be there.

I see folks on SM insist that Outlander writers have never read the books. Even though the writers have discussed their process many times of using the books as their outlines. If they never read the books or used them as a reference we could be looking at some crazy shit.

Imagine this. A new writer pops on the scene that has no idea what Outlander core stories are and they decide this –  Frank takes Brianna to a park for the afternoon. The park has this strange rock formation beside it, Brianna is skipping and playing around the rocks. One moment everything is fine and the next moment, she is gone! That’s right, Brianna has travelled through time as a 6-year-old! Frank is now forced to believe Claire after all this time.

That kind of storytelling would match the comments that production on Outlander has gone so far past what the books are about, the story isn’t recognizable.

I could have gone on and on with badaptations for days, it was kinda fun, to be honest with you. I bet some of you reading have ideas of your own. Drop them in the comments and we can have some laughs!

I do admit we all perceive the characters and much of the heart of the stories with our personal filter and biases. That is a completely natural way of enjoying or having contempt for what is happening on screen.  I hope we can look at the brighter side of our experience with Outlander’s adaptation. Yes, there may be some stuff that grinds our gears or twists us up. I most certainly do not take anything away from that. It’s natural for some peeps to fan that way.

The whole point of this little blogscursion. There are some downright horror shows of adaptations. BADaptations.  Granted, those badaptations are creations by people far more talented than I am. Everyone has a vision. I am sure there are people who will love those adaptations just as much as those who don’t.

It is my opinion that Outlander is a RADaptation. (Yep, Gen X’er here)

 

 

I hope you all have a FANtasticalamazirifisome day!

Sher xo❤

 

 

Be right…or make things right? That’s my question RE: S04Ep08 #Outlander

by

I have watched Wilmington 4 times now. The term “emotional whiplash” was being used and I am hard pressed to find another term that is as effective as that one. Unlike a roller coaster of feelings, this is different.

As always the focus of my after the show blog isn’t about the topic of the day or the feelings that rise to the top the quickest but the stuff that bubbles under the surface. Things that I end up thinking about later.  This doesn’t mean I am ignoring the big stuff.  It also doesn’t mean I am avoiding the hard conversations. I am leaving those for my friends who will discuss them with dignity and introspect. Like Connie here, I don’t always share the same views but I love her writing and deductions.  Being open to how others see things is important. It helps expand our own perceptions. I encourage you to read hers.

I started on the path “Life is a Stage” as it was so prevalent through the episode. Upon waking this morning, I read a beautiful blog from Outcandour who shared much of what I was thinking but, of course, said it much more eloquently with no goofy or distracting gif’s.

There was something else I thought about during this episode and it may seem like a stretch, and for me this time, I am o.k. with that. The reason?  This episode was a lot. I truly could go off in a million little pieces.

I find myself in the world of self-examination. As we are most definitely fallible and perfectly imperfect humans we often care more about “being right’ than “making things right”.  Those little arguments that have the potential to become big ugly things.

The most obvious in the episode, Wilmington, is our beautifully cracked set of numpties Roger and Bree.  Instead of admitting fault, taking responsibility for the events that sparked the argument or even swallowing one’s pride in order to make amends, both parties chose to escalate the confrontation. Even pushing one another further into the fray.

These are 100% human reactions.  We may prefer to think we are better than that but mostly, we aren’t. When our feelings are hurt, we can lash out in an attempt to cause equal amounts of pain.  If we succeed in this, we feel validated. Our feelings of vindication can be short-lived if we start thinking of the situation with a calmness later on.

There is this weird mind game we play with ourselves. We are convinced there must be right and wrong in every argument. When very often, arguments take place because both parties are right. They simply are having a difficult time expressing their points or they are choosing not to listen to one another. Naturally, there are the times when each person is completely out to lunch and there is absolutely no point in engaging them at all.  During those times, it’s entirely logical to hit the “bless and release” button.

Feelings of betrayal, anger, embarrassment and shame all overshadowed the other emotions that brought Roger and Bree together.  Those of us watching from the outside, the ones not feeling the pain from the inside are able to think through this situation with clarity and assign blame in which we believe are the appropriate places.  I think if we are to recall a time when our emotions were at a fever pitch, we could empathize more with both of them.

Claire, Claire, Claire.  At first, in regards to Mr. Fanning’s ummmm…issue. She knows she is right about what is going on with him but she doesn’t push the issue too far. Instead of being right, she just plays nice, takes a step back and blends in, as is expected. She isn’t particularly happy doing it but Claire isn’t always reckless. Until of course, being right means saving a man’s life. Then, there is no stopping the woman. Screenshot (1373).png

Even though Governor Tryon and Murtagh never share the screen together, the conflict between the two is ever present. We have two very clear sides. Tryon, collecting his taxes (heavily and wastefully by all appearances) and Murtagh with his Regulators. They are a fed up tax paying band of brothers willing to set the Governor and his men straight by stealing those taxes back. Tryon is right, dammit! There is no wiggle room. There will be no voice given to the Regulators in the Governor’s presence. Whereas the Regulators have said time and time again, they are willing to pay taxes. Fair taxes. Taxes meant for the things taxes are meant for, not to line the pockets of aristocrats and certainly not to build palaces and pay for the Governor and his friends to live in luxury. Which to anyone, with any sense in their head, is indeed fair and just.

Jamie has the opportunity to do right by his friend/godfather. Yes, Murtagh was breaking the law, however, the lines of rightness are blurred here.  He knows Murtagh is going to get a stretched neck if he continues on with his plan of robbing the redcoats. Jamie is aware the excessive tax money is being used in an unjust way and also doesn’t blame Murtagh for the things he is doing either.  In the grand scheme of things, what happens to Murtagh will affect Jamie, emotionally.  This is something he isn’t willing to deal with later. He loves the man and wants to do right by him. This is the choice he has made.

We move to the last scene where the opposite has taken place. There is no right here.  There is no world where any of this right. Bree’s rape where an inn/tavern is full of people, men and women alike. Sitting. Listening. A young woman being brutalized. There is no movement to make this right.  No one dares.  It speaks to much deeper dialogue.  On a smaller scale, in our every day many of us do this.  We see situations, moments in time that give us pause. We know there is little we can do to change the outcome…so we do nothing. The outcome doesn’t affect us directly, so we do nothing.

How often have we seen things in society which we rail against those who stood by without offering assistance? Who held up a video camera to record the events but didn’t intervene? These are moments we wish we would be different, we like to think we would be the ones to stand up and say something, we hope we are the person that would do the right thing.

There are times and circumstances when being right and making things right are the same thing but it takes some serious food for thought and self-examination to see when we simply want to be right, feelings and outcome be damned.

Until next time,

Sher (ABOotlander founder)

Please join us as we live tweet each episode as it airs on W Network in Canada at 8 pm MST using the hashtag #OutlanderCAN 

 

Outlander, Season 3. I’m glad it’s over.

by

No really.  I am.

Why?  1. Now I can watch all 3 seasons uninterrupted & without shame. 2. If it’s over…that means it happened. 3. I have something to look forward to.

Makes sense, doesnt it?

Now…what do we have to look forward to when Drums of Autumn hits our screens next year? And really…next year isnt that far away -I give away nothing as far as plot goes so…you won’t really be spoiled anymore than you already are.

  1. More Breeger…Rogina. Ok. Bree-n-Rog.  Sure we got a few glimpses of this ship in port but it was docked pretty rapidly.  Season 4 is where these two will come to life, as individuals & as the super couple we imagine them as.

    https://media.giphy.com/media/3o7aD8sdw1gEXt1KAE/giphy.gif

    See? Awwwww

  2. Aunty Jo!  For me, Jocasta Cameron was such a player, she reminded me so much of Colum & Dougal (not the nice parts).  I am  looking forward to see how she is written & portrayed.  It could really go in so many different directions – no matter which it goes, I am pretty sure its going to be a blast to watch.

    http://78.media.tumblr.com/200ef44fa515956427f39a775842e1b9/tumblr_ndjq4hXgdC1rud800o1_500.gif

    Mix two intense man Mackenzie’s to make one scary lady Mackenzie

  3. The zoo.  Rollo, Clarence & the white sow. If you are feeling dangerous, throw in a Bear with a fish on top.  These animals might look different than in my head, they may sound different than in my head but that hasn’t stopped my watching yet.  It will just be a lot of fun to see how they come into play.                       https://giphy.com/arsenijevujovic
  4. The ridge will be the ridgiest of ridges ever. That is all.  I have no idea what it will look like (sure my brain tells me one thing but that isn’t accurate – like most of thetime) and can’t wait to see what the production team has come up with.https://media.giphy.com/media/GCQLOJHFbf3ri/giphy.gif
  5. That &#$*NG pirate!  You know who I am talking about. Stephen Bonnet ARGH!  I am going to love hating that shit of a person. That’s all I have to say about that.https://media.giphy.com/media/3oz8xW24DSRe8KkN8c/giphy.gif

Once again…there is SO much story to tell in Drums of Autumn that it will be another fantastic ride of “will they” or “won’t they”.  The anticipation of added stories, characters or twists that the book fans can enjoy along the way.

So in the between time. Catch up on podcasts like Dram of Outlander , get lost in videos by Julia.  Check out hilarious recaps by Connie V.  Go through all the steps to beat the Droughtlander once again.

Let’s weather this storm together. With laughter & kindness!

Sher, ABOotlanders Founder

A. Malcolm – How we saw it.

by

I am just one of 340 local ABOotlanders.  The brilliant thing about that is being able to hear, feel, see & understand how others interpret, percieve & process each episode of Outlander.

http://www.lunametrics.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/its-science-anchorman.gif

No surprise that A. Malcolm is one of those episodes that has a great divide in the interpretation.  Why?  Likely because it also had the most expectation.  When we imagine things, we detail them, connect emotion to them to make them real.  It is a natural way to process.  Many of us have not only read the “reuinon” of  Jamie & Claire an insane amount of times, we have layered it with our emotions which ultimately solidifies our images so we can “feel” what we are imagining.   Visions of each moment were exeedingly clear.

There is no right, there is no wrong. There is no reason to change someones mind about what they saw but perhaps there is a reason to understand they are as entitled to seeing something their way as we are, ours.

https://media.tenor.com/images/cf9ae44e1363873352b89854d7a256c6/tenor.gif

We should never feel the need to defend our feelings nor feel sorry we have them. Just as we shouldn’t assume others are missing something or blind to disappointment.  The most important thing to remember is opinion & fact are 2 different beasts. Where personal interpretation exists, just like jello, fact isn’t something that is “nail downable”.

http://www.gifbin.com/bin/122009/1260993809_bouncing_jello.gif

On our local FB group we have episode discussions – we have this thing about saying what we mean, without being mean & respecting one anothers view points.  It makes having discussions so much more enjoyable when coming from a place of assuming positive intent.

It’s a study of personalities & experiences when we truly listen to how others digest visuals.  It can be facinating –  if we let it engage us & not separate us.

giphy5

Here are moments the ABOotlanders pointed out as group favourites:

  1.  Jamies view of the day.  Being reminded that Claire had a lot of planning, thinking, hoping going on and this… it was all a true smack upside the head.  Never in a million years…ok…200 years did he see this coming. Watching that shock play out from the place he was living was pretty cool.
  2.   Jello. Bicycles. Zippers. Photos. There was an excitement about the mention of things Jamie has no idea about. That connection from past to future. It almost is a full circle kind of feeling that was a unified “loved it”.
  3.  Grown up Fergus.  I admit, this tiny little scene made me sobgasp.  That took me by complete surprise.  The ABOotlanders were unanamous of their Fergus love and the gravity of that moment.
  4.  Wee Ian.  For book readers, we know what this young man is up against, and how he was written by Diana.  John Bell is perfectly gawkward.  He too had just a moment on screen – and it seemed he universally struck the mark.
  5.  Brothel Breakfast of champions.  It was a great part of the book & we were all pretty happy that it made its way into the show.  Thanks for the tip.  That might be my favourite line.

https://media.giphy.com/media/6IAmwRPF0lMME/giphy.gif

Another common thread

  1. Pure joy with all the things. There are definitely those in our group who love…all…the…things.  The joy of watching it come to life overwhelm their senses and the gushing goes forth.

https://media.giphy.com/media/4QXhmYuWNpxRu/source.gif

2.  Being underwhelmed.  Absolutely there were those that felt this way.  They       expected more & didn’t get that. The emotion simply wasn’t at the level they envisioned.                                                                                                                                      https://zenscribbles.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/bored-gif.gif

Both of these views, completely valid & easily understood.  We might not agree with the opposite perception of the scenes but it sure doesn’t make anyone mistaken.

Our group, as a whole, are pretty good with the separation of book & show.  Knowing that things change because of the need for translation, dropping things in now where their might be no time for the set up later.  The written word is rich and full whereas seeing something on screen becomes a little less dimensional. Do we miss things? Sure. Do we wish things were included? Sure. Do we find it ruins our overall enjoyment?  It sure doesnt seem like it.

 https://media.tenor.com/images/323e4bf538dfdc8c0806bc0838ee5986/tenor.gif

One thing we certainly all agree on.  It sure is nice to have J&C back together again.

https://media1.giphy.com/media/3o7aCYET4LFpq15zW0/giphy.gif

Don’t forget to play along with us as we Live Tweet with the Canadian airing of Outlander on W Network. Use #OutlanderCAN to keep up with us.

Sher.  Founder of the ABOotlanders

 

 

 

Plan B. Freedom & Whisky in the memes.

by

I had a delightful blog outlined and ready to roll when my face fell off.  Ok… not the whole thing but half of it.   I have the lovely facial paralysis called Bells Palsy.  The week leading up to the final bell ringer was poop…serious poop…so I’m taking the easy way out.

https://media.giphy.com/media/5eSajLMfhkCdO/giphy.gif

I decided to simply go back into my Live Tweet Feed and give you time in my brain.  No worries, its short, silly and all round ridiculous.  You aren’t supposed to think or feel.  Just mind numbingly come along on the silly ride train I have loaded up.

aaaaaac

Our opening scene is Claire being her badass self. As per. 

aaaaaad

This group could not look anymore bored if they tried.  Which I enjoy cuz…me+school = THAT

aaaaaae

That moment of a lecture you know you still dont give one shit…or two.

aaaaaaf

They had ALMOST as much garland in that house as mine did when I was a kid.  It was like a sparkly tinfoil monster had its way with everything!

aaaaaag

Mmmmmmm….resin.

aaaaaaho

Some of the best advice uttered.  Make your own fate people. #JoeFresh #theMan

aaaaaahp

Drink together, share secrets, rinse, repeat. 

aaaaaahz

Gotta love it when your friends see the drape fall. 

aaaaaai

Claire knows a lot of the things…drinking…definitely top 5.

aaaaaaj

Its always better with friends. 

aaaaaaja

It’s all the same. Girls with spirit. 

aaaaaak

It really is a skill she has. 

aaaaaal

Dem bonz…dem bonz 

aaaaaam

Our Roger is just too perfect for words.  Beardiful is a good one though. 

aaaaaan

So many choices….good thing we have YEARS to play them out. 

aaaaaao

Ok, maybe Candy’s practical joke game was off.  Oh…Sandy…aheam

aaaaaap

Its such a shame when people can own their own shit. 

aaaaaaq

Let’s be fair…every forecast…every day.

aaaaaar

Of course she can sew….don’t be silly

aaaaaas

The 80s floating head picture…thats what I saw…touching still. 

aaaaaau

BOOM! There she is.  Loved this transition SO SO SO much

aaaaaav

If you did not turn into a big pile of goo…you are dead inside.

aaaaaaw

All the feels…allofthemall

aaaaaax

That’s ok Claire.  You are a doctor…you can put him together again.

Thanks for playing folks.

Take care of you and BE KIND!  Join us on twitter #OutlanderCAN – watching each week on W Network.

Sher

AKA ABOtlanders Founder

Doctor Joe is now taking patients. ABOotlander Sher, chats with Wil Johnson.

by

Outlander fans have welcomed Wil Johnson into the family as he stepped into the role of loyal friend and confidant, Dr. Joe Abernathy.

yellow-lemonade-stand-vector

In the books, I loved Joe’s smooth and confident character. He was an equal to Claire that is rarely portrayed in the era they met.  In my mind, he was a butter voiced Sydney Poitier.  Without sounding too sucky-uppy – Wil Johnson fit the mold perfectly.   I anticipated seeing him on-screen more than other supporting characters because of my perception of him as Claire’s partner in crime in the 20th century.   We all need our “person”.  The one we can lean on, hold up, share the tough stuff with and Joe, was Claire’s person.

When I started following Wil Johnson on twitter I noticed his genuine humour and positive outlook about being enveloped into the Outlander Universe.  I am sure it can be daunting to all of a sudden be “loved” by so many random strangers – however, he handled it with grace.  Sharing his kindness with no strings attached.

I wanted to know more about this man who earned the role as Dr. Joe so I asked if he would do a Q&A…he graciously agreed.  We tweeted ridiculously funny GIFs at each other – this is a contract in the world of social media.

Sit back and enjoy “THE” Wil Johnson brought to you by “THE” ABOotlanders

You don’t even have to look closely to see that Wil is not a one trick pony.  I am not sure how this man finds the time but his list of awesome is a long one.

https://media.giphy.com/media/8Ue8ekoT67ylq/giphy.gif

See…there’s lots there

He sings, dances, acts and DJs – I mean I am tired thinking about it all.  When you present it all together for him, Wil sounds surprised he does so much.

WIL: WOW! That is a lot! lol…To be honest, I get enjoyment from all of them in equal measure. They all require a different skill set and each area has to be mastered with time, consistently and discipline. When you get it right, that feeling of satisfaction is unfathomable. But if I was to pick one that slightly edges the others out…it would have to be DJing! I say DJing because it’s the only discipline in which it’s all about you..two decks and a mixer. What you do directly in terms of manipulating the music, how you mix the tracks, directly affects how people will respond immediately. INSTANT GRATIFICATION!!! LOOOOL!!!

Want to hear some of 1LWil’s mixes?  CLICK HERE FOR THE SICK BEATS I’m trying to be cool obviously, Wil on the other hand just is. Where Dr. Joe is calm and cool, Wil…just cool.

http://storm-djs.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Wil-Johnson-1.jpg

WIL: Right now I’m putting together a playlist for a new Mix I’ll be bringing out on MIXCLOUD which will be Deep House & Soulful House combined…Two of my favourite genres of music!

We all have that favourite band – Wil’s is Earth, Wind & Fire – you know,  in case you didn’t think he was cool already.

As if all of the previously mentioned talents weren’t good enough for you, the man cooks as well.  His favourite meal to put on the table?

WIL: As the Son of Jamaican parents, my favourite signature dish is ‘Stew Chicken with Rice & Peas!!!’

We can’t give away his recipe but if you thought to yourself…damn…that sounds good.  HERE you go. Gotta love the YouTube.

I think it is a prerequisite for any friend of Claire to be good behind the bar.  Dr. Joe makes a mean martini Wil on the other hand…

WIL:I serve a mean Rum & Coke on the rocks!!!! LOOOOOL!!!!

https://media.giphy.com/media/zuYV4h8GNfXhu/giphy.gif

…because Wil made me a drink…

Wil is a dad. That might not seem too unusual – however, he is the dad of 7…count ’em…7 children.  I see a recurring theme in Wil’s life. If you are going to do something – you might as well knock it outta the park!

http://www.mlb.com/images/2/4/6/227392246/042917_lad_reaction_gifs_puig_med_bhvci17h.gif

Just. Like. That.

WIL: The most important aspect of being a Father for me is ‘being there’ for your children and encouraging them in all their endeavours. Always telling them you love them and as much as you can, do things with them. Children must feel that you are their ‘ROCK’ that safe place of peace, truth and balance…

We either parent how we were parented or go rogue.  Considering what he is most proud of overcoming, I will say, Wil’s mom was his role model.

WIL:Living without my Mother who died 26 years ago. We were extremely close and she was my biggest fan and supporter of my work.

https://media.giphy.com/media/UAnqF9G65e67m/giphy.gif

A mothers love.

Wil is quite popular in the UK, having worked on many TV shows. Waking the Dead, Babyfather and Emmerdale–  to name a few. Joe Abernathy is Wil’s first american role. I was curious just how long he had to wait before hearing that he earned his role.

WIL:It was around a month before I heard I’d been booked to play Joe Abernathy….A LOOOOONG MONTH!!! LOOOOL!!!!

I wasn’t surprised to learn  Wil hadn’t read the Outlander books.  I mean, come on, you saw a glimpse in the day of Wil Johnsons life…I would say there wasn’t time to read the tomes.  “I work off the script and what eventually ends up there.”  This shows us how dedicated the writers are to keeping the soul of the book alive in the characters being portrayed on-screen.  Oh, and how well the casting department has done their homework.

We know Joe Abernathy wasn’t the most popular guy in medical school – like Claire, he was pushing through preconceived notions and boundaries that had been placed in his way.  The era itself was well represented, even if it was uncomfortable for us to watch.   Wil lets us know how important it is to break down those boundaries.

http://i.imgur.com/FgZn7Eu.gif

It might not be that easy…but it IS that impactful

WIL: It was an honour. When one has the opportunity to play such a role as Joe Abernathy, you feel like an Ambassador…meaning, this role portrays positive aspects of our human nature and can be looked upon as a beacon or symbol of what is good, fair and decent in human beings. Joe for me ticks all those boxes and I felt a duty to live up to that.

https://media.giphy.com/media/Ph2EUpM4KAmAM/giphy.gif

And so you did

Wil is a very dedicated actor, you can tell, his favourite book being Year of the King by Antony Sher. It is a glimpse into the world of an actor honing his craft.

Outlander is a huge production. Fans are constantly in awe of the what is put in front of them on-screen.  I have always wondered how the actors respond to this “world”.

WIL: The attention to detail in every aspect of production. When I was on set, I felt I WAS in the world of Outlander… for real…..

Joe Abernathy isn’t seen regularly in the books, however he is one of the characters that has a regular presence. Popping up throughout the books as a touch stone for Claire’s life in Boston.  I was curious if we will be seeing Joe again, once Claire heads back into the past.

WIL: I don’t know what the future holds in store for Joe. If they continue with this character in some shape or form I would be very happy about that.

https://media.tenor.com/images/82bf6d186678cac0e636c1f1a3c9de87/tenor.gif

Joe is one of the very few people who knows Claire well. What do you think Joe thinks of this woman he befriended?

WIL: Joe truly admires Claire and is in awe of her strength. Joe draws inspiration from Claire in that respect.

I envision Caitriona Balfe having some of Claire’s traits.  I have a hard time imagining actors can play roles with such conviction and believability unless they have some sort of relationship with the character they are portraying. I asked Wil what he saw in both of these incredible women? (one real, one fictional)

WIL: Drive..Passion..Tenacity…

http://68.media.tumblr.com/ebb394bcee58122eb5af2ede7dbf229b/tumblr_o0rgkjTcOJ1qjj2qyo1_500.gif

Who me???

Speaking of relating to the character,  what does Wil say he and Joe might have in common?

WIL: Joe Abernathy and Wil Johnson are TRAIL BLAZERS!!! We both strive to change perception by our actions….

fate

We all have shows we love, our readers wouldn’t be here if they didn’t.  I am always curious as to what others are watching. I love shows from the UK and feel us Canadians miss out on some great ones because of that silly Atlantic thing.

WIL: G.O.T!!!! GAME OF THRONES!!!!!!!!! THAT IS MY SHOW!!!! Not sure what you might have missed out on….hmmmmm…Emmerdale???????

The following video was made during Wils 2 year stint as Dom Andrews on long running British soap opera,  Emmerdale. (This may or may not be the video I watched to see if he had the “Joe” voice I imagined. It was and he did)

Us ABOotlanders always love to know of Canadian connections. So, I asked.

WIL:Canada is on the list of places to visit for my Wife and I. Also I have family who live there so it would be nice to see them.

Let me suggest Alberta to the Johnsons.  They now know they have a tour guide if needed.

If you have read any of the chats here on the ABOotlander Blog, you know our Signature question.   Wil was not left out.

“If you were to visit us ABOotlanders in Alberta, Canada and someone offered you the following:

  • Moose droppings

  • Beaver tails

  • Prairie oysters

  • Taber corn

Which would you choose…and why?”

WIL:   I don’t know any of them but I would say Moose Droppings!!!! Sounds the most interesting…..Loooooool!!!!!!!!!

Interesting is right Wil.  Moose Droppings are delicious!

0000495_canadian-moose-droppings-chocolate-coated-almonds-165g

They look like the real thing(ish) but don’t taste like them. I think…    I have never eaten the real thing.  Really.

The exciting Wil Johnson/ Joe Abernathy news is we’ll get to see  more of Dr. Joe Abernathy is Episode 5 “Freedom & Whisky”  HERE is a sneak peek of Joe…showing you exactly why I think Joe is kick ass.

SherryLynn aka Sher (ABOotlander Founder)

Share your thoughts on Wil’s portrayal in our comments.

Follow us on Twitter & tell your friends how much fun we are.

Let’s talk about sex baby. “Surrender” was all about letting go!

by

I am sure if you have watched episode 2 of season 3 for Outlander you are quite aware there seemed to be as much sex in it as there was in season 2.  That should have topped ya all up.

http://www.timjohn.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/IxndlE4.gif
Do you think I am sexy baby? No? 

I get it…season 2 was NOT sexy.  Stillbirths, starvation, war….not foreplay in the making.  Season 3 however…the lovin’ was stong in “Surrender”

All the sex wasn’t shown, all the sex wasn’t with someone else or even completed but we are going to talk about it anyway. Why? Why focus on the sex? Because it was more than that…just like in real life.  The way two people communicate often involves their bodies. Whether it be with love, need, desire, anger or pure hatred.  Sex can be an expression of any of those.

http://mrwgifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Peter-Dinklage-Raised-Eyebrows-Expression-Gif.gif

The first sex scene we were treated to was with Claire. Taking things into her own hands so to speak.  We know Claire is sexually advanced to societies expectation – which makes perfect sense considering she was a woman who always pushed the boundaries in each time she existed in.  At this moment, fantasizing about the man she loves and pleasing herself seemed as natural as breathing.  Frank, asleep and oblivious was not as important to me. Part of me thought any hot blooded man, who hasn’t gotten some in a while, would recognize that heavy breath and pay very close attention.  In my mind, Frank did in fact wake…he just was super polite and just let her finish up.

http://i.imgur.com/cX5jHxr.gif

Fooled ya…

The second winka winka scene, brings us back to the Claire/Frank marriage bed.  This time, Claire looking a million miles away but still managing to reach out and poke him in the face to wake him up.  Ok…she brushed her fingers across his cheek.  He asks her “What is it.” She responds “I miss my husband.”  Which, let’s be honest here, she isn’t lying.  She really misses her husband.  The red-headed one, the one she dreams about. Frank will just ignore that for now. Cuz a man woken in the middle of the night with an invitation to the pleasure highway generally will pay the assigned toll.

http://i.imgur.com/jzDfWjH.gif

Most of the time anyway

Claire sure wanted to scratch a lot of itches getting back to being who she used to be.  The third sex scene was anticlimactic.  Literally.

Claire does a little dance for Frank, removing her knickers (you couldn’t call those billowy things panties even if you wanted to), again, feeling the need to get out of what you know she feels mundane.  If she has to walk in these slippers, she wants them to have some heels. So she seduces Frank.  Who is totally into it, until he tries to connect with her emotionally.  The eyes are the windows to the soul and Claire has hers firmly SHUT.  He pleads with her to open her eyes and she basically ignores him, because she isn’t with him.

https://media.tenor.com/images/4582fee3cc4885f82dffbec0b2fbc3e5/tenor.gif

How ’bout this Frank? Do you think I’m sexxxxxy???

She has a desire to escape and he is not heeding it by reminding her. Reality is, it is Frank she is having sex with not making love to Jamie. He stops. He has had enough.  It is one thing to have sex half asleep and ignore it but he is full on awake and totally gets it.

We notice when Claire gets SUPER angry when confronted with the truth.   She either throws ashtrays or she buggers off and seethes.  It is vastly different from the Claire who is motivated by her anger.  When she knows she is right, she turns that anger into action…when she is called on her shit she lashes out and shuts down.

https://media.tenor.com/images/6f562e46702422cb03468cdf7a829481/tenor.gif

HURMPH!

Our fourth sex scene happens between a very broken man and a woman who simply wishes to be a balm in his life.

I heard a lot of people upset that we had to see Claire have sex with Frank but they didn’t make us see it with Jamie and Mary.  Here is my take.  You have already seen Frank and Claire have the sexy time in episode one, season one.  This isn’t a completely foreign concept.  Jamie with anyone but Claire…that is going to take a bit more getting used to.

https://m.popkey.co/7b3560/LyqVG_s-200x150.gif

Plus, I think after being in a cave for 6 yrs…he erupted after about 2 seconds…maybe….just maybe…he was a bit quick on the uptake and you DID see it all. In my lowly opinion, watching Mary and Jamie have sex probably wouldn’t be so sexy.  I mean, they were both super skinny due to poor living conditions.  It might have been super distracting having two people that sounded like someone playing Yahtzee as opposed to having sex. Bones banging against one another – not so erotic eh?

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/gallery/no/john-cleese-no.gif

Nope…not even a little in the sexy department

This episode is the sex-circle of life.  Frank is Claire’s Jamie…Mary is Jamie’s Claire…round and round we go.

https://media.giphy.com/media/2h8BdeXxhGGB2/200.gif

Maybe we aren’t as connected in the sex circle…but you get my meaning.

Orgasm is an escape.  A surrender, so to speak.  It is a healthy way to treat the bodies wounds as it serves to be a bridge to the soul.

So have an orgasm today! Alone or with someone.  It is all good for you.

https://media.tenor.com/images/b30733ad3df009f32a78ac237555f123/tenor.gif

Join us while we watch Outlander on Sundays via W Network! There is live tweet action and aftershow chat happening on the twitter., using the hashtag #OutlanderCAN

Sher

ABOotlander Founder

 

 

The Outlander Podcast gets some ABOotlander LOVE!

by

The ABOotlander LOVE series bring you The Outlander Podcast.  They started in 2013 and were the only podcast dedicated to our fandom.  There are a whole stream of them now and Ginger & Summer are still all kinds of awesome.

http://i.imgur.com/h7ns8cH.jpg

​​I found the Outlander Podcast when I started my own twitter journey into the wild world that is the Outlander fandom…forever ago. It makes me very grateful to know humour & intelligent conversation isn’t leaving the fandom as long as they are around.

Let’s meet the fun behind The Outlander Podcast.  Their names are Summer & Ginger, or Ginger & Summer. 

The Outlander fandom pulls all kinds into their orbit. Summer and Ginger were not immune.  This is a recap of what made them a part of this huge & wonderful world.

Summer: I found the books in the 90s, while I was living in New York and wanted a huge novel to read during my long subway commutes. I first read Drums of Autumn, and could quickly tell that I did not have the first book in the series. When I finished, I made sure to get Outlander, and so many things made sense! I’ve been hooked ever since.

Ginger: Summer introduced me to Outlander in the late 90s. I didn’t actually read it at first. But she kept on me. We actually found that I had a copy of Outlander in German on my bookshelf! (German is my second language.) Once I started reading them, I was hooked. When the Starz series was announced in 2013, I approached Summer with the idea of a podcast, and we were off.

http://i.imgur.com/MkHCvcb.gif

With all the ways people share their love of Outlander, I was curious to hear more about why they chose a podcast.

Summer: I Blame Ginger.

http://www.reactiongifs.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/it-was-him.gif

Ginger: I had been listening to podcasts since 2008, and they were a unique medium to me. I was fascinated with the concept of creating your own show, using your own voice, literally, and putting it out there. It seemed scary, but I always thought I’d have a show of my own one day. When the Starz series was announced, I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of, this electric atmosphere, this growing fan community. There were so many other wonderful blogs and sites out there, I wanted to do something new. And it just clicked. Our show started summer of 2013, a full year before Season 1 aired.

 As fans of this diverse Outlander world we all hope to have an encounter with one those who helped create it.  Summer & Ginger were lucky to have their share. Here are the ones they recall best.

Summer: You always remember your first… Attending the first Fan Event in Los Angeles, where they showed the first trailer for Season 1. That event cemented my belief that our beloved series was indeed in the right hands to be adapted for TV. Also I got a pic with Sam Heughan during the meet and greet portion of that event. I’ve been threatening to make it my Christmas Card ever since.

summer

Here, let me.

 Ginger: I’ve been going to book signings of Diana’s and attending Scottish Games where she appeared, for years. I think I will most remember seeing her at the 2002 Pleasanton Highland Games. I had a friend take a picture of me with her. She was there, surrounded by books, we were both comparatively so young looking! It wasn’t surreal at the time; it was fun. Now, however, looking back, it’s surreal. It’s likely she’ll not do such events anymore. I look back on her events of the early 2000s as nostalgic, and realize how lucky I was. I’m thankful to have been able to attend some wonderfully intimate events, the kind that don’t really take place anymore.

ging

Diana with the honour of meeting Ginger

https://media.giphy.com/media/tiTMwmUR4iLxS/giphy.gif

Thinkin ’bout the good ole days

It’s enjoyable when we can watch/listen to others that are open to conversation. The Outlander Podcast has so many great moments.  I asked the ladies to share their favourites with us.

 Summer: I loved our interview with Diana Gabaldon (http://www.outlanderpod.com/49). We had heard her speak at a local event where she described her books as having specific shapes, which I was fascinated by. When we had her on, we asked her to describe them for our listeners.

Ginger: This is a difficult question. I think some of our favorite episodes, the ones that stick out, are the interviews, because you have time to go in depth with people and a topic. I think my favorite episodes are our interviews with voice actor Davina Porter. She narrated all of the Big Books and it is fascinating to be speaking with “Claire” (have to wrap your head around that!) and to learn about her process, hear about her background, is fascinating. http://www.outlanderpod.com/13  and http://www.outlanderpod.com/47

Also, our interview with Bear McCreary at San Diego Comic Con 2016. He revealed something very personal about how he came up with Faith’s Theme. Definitely worth a listen. http://www.outlanderpod.com/156

 Sometimes a cast member can effect us in a way we aren’t expecting. Ginger shares her experience with a cast member that impacted her.

Ginger: Surprisingly, Tobias. He’s very magnetic, and of course I’m very attracted to his performance of BJR. Probably my favorite Season 1 character. While I’ve never hated Frank, his portrayal of BJR really made me get into Frank, he’s so great at both roles. And, in turn, I’ve become more interested in Frank as a character, in general. This has surprised me. When we did our recent discussion of Voyager chapter 19, wherein we say goodbye to Frank http://www.outlanderpod.com/177 , it was a tough one to get through. So I think Tobias’ portrayal of his characters has affected me even outside of the television series. It’s forced me to reconsider Frank. I quite like him now.

https://media.giphy.com/media/l3V0obG9mxthvcJ8I/giphy.gif

Gotta love me

All of us have an idea what Outlander will look like in the years to come.  Summer & Ginger are no different. They give us a taste of what they see in their crystal ball.

https://media.giphy.com/media/BZUXTEvJSPsUo/giphy.gif

Summer: Like we always say, we want “All the Books.”

Ginger: I am happy that the series is on the air, period. Though anyone can appreciate the television series for what it is, it’s especially magical to long-time book fans who have been living with these characters for, some of us, almost 30 years! My vision for Outlander is selfish: I’d like to see all of the Big Books translated to screen, and also the Bulges. And if there are any spin- off series, I wouldn’t complain.

 After engaging with Summer & Ginger, we may forget they have a life outside of our view of them. It is always nice to know a little extra something something.

Summer: I am mother to an 8 yr. old, who pays the bills working in an administrative capacity.  (Just to clarify, her 8 yr.old does not pay the bills ) 

Ginger: I’m a linguist and instructional designer who likes to play guitar (not very well). I love to travel and always have a good audiobook ready.

We can be inspired by the things that inspire others. The ABOotlanders have promoted the #BeKind attitude since our inception. We share with our followers/friends it seems the same thing inspires Ginger & Summer.

Summer: I am inspired by random acts of kindness.

Ginger: I’m inspired by music, by nature, and kindness.

https://media.giphy.com/media/12aegI6wc7qmze/giphy.gif

Our ABOotlander must ask (This is strictly for giggles – not serious at all) – If the ladies were to come to Alberta Canada and someone offered them a) Moose Droppings b) Beaver Tails c) Prairie Oysters d) Taber Corn…which would they choose & why?

Summer: I know for a fact what prairie Oysters are in the States so I’m gonna pass on those for sure… LOL My hope is that Moose Droppings are some sort of a confectionery treat is tempered by the fear that it may also be poop… so I’m gonna go with Beaver Tails, which, I am going to imagine, is like a donut-shaped like a beaver tail. But even if it did end up being an actual beaver tail… it is probably the most muscular part of the beaver and seasoned well could be good… (Wait were we allowed to Google what they are before answering? Cause I feel like Ginger Cheated…  ;o)  )

http://www.metronews.ca/content/dam/thestar/uploads/2016/3/9/beavertails.jpg

deep fried yummy goodness #nomnomnom

Ginger: I would have to go with Taber Corn! Because I’d like to taste the corn from the place that gets the most sun n Canada.

corn

The best corn comes from the back of a truck on the side of a road.

We are so grateful to Ginger & Summer or Summer & Ginger for agreeing to be a featured guest with our #ABOotlanderLOVE blog series. 

Sher AKA SL

ABOotlander Founder and Friend

ABOotlander LOVE. Fan Videos w Julia LeBlanc

by

ABOOTLANDER LOVE is the ABOotlander way of spreading KINDNESS JOY & SUPPORT throughout the OUTLANDER Fandom.

The ABOotlander World FB Page is choosing some in the Outlander fandom who have made it their mission to add a touch of positivity & entertainment.

We randomly highlight bloggers, artists, podcasters, cast or crew members who simply share parts of themselves that bring happiness to those enjoying the World of Outlander.

I discovered todays ABOotlander LOVEs recipient on Twitter @jessicaleblanc1981 as a fellow Canadian in this fandom. 

10959395_10153167647655209_6758621198136630278_n
the LOVELY Julia

Julia LeBlanc creates fan videos. Many shared by Diana Gabaldon.  Julia’s are heartwarming, funny and all together a great way to quench your thirst caused by Droughtlander.

gif credit https://media.giphy.com/media/14fVkEd2Dn00ms/giphy.gif
GULP GULP *gasp* GULP

Julia’s interest in Outlander started in the same way many others have. “I had heard of it years ago, my sister was a huge fan of the book series, but I hadn’t read it. When she told me they were making a T.V. show I decided to watch it, I was hooked instantly. After the second episode I went online to read stuff about it and find out Claire and Jamie get married! What?! LOL so I immediately went out and bought the whole series. Read all 8 books in 10 weeks. I was sucked in.”

gif credit http://i.imgur.com/ozTIoLt.gif

As many of us Outlander fans, Julia has a life outside of creating videos. She is a stay at home mom with two young kids.  Her background is in education. spending 6 years studying child development and 10 years working in the field. Unfortunately, there aren’t any jobs available in the teaching field,  where she lives so she and her husband decided to start a family. She has been a SAHM ever since. It’s a lot of work, but she has good time management skills, this makes it easier to fit her hobbies in and have “me time” when it is needed.

If you haven’t seen any of Julias videos…you are certainly missing another form of fan art.  I was curious as to what inspired her to create the videos.

“After the 4 episodes or so, I went on YouTube and noticed people making them. I started to think of songs that I thought would be perfect for the series. I would do searches for the songs and couldn’t find anyone that had done them. Songs like “Turing Page”, “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” and “Against All Odds”. So during the fist Droughtlander, I decided to try and make one myself.  I was shocked at how much I loved making them. I like trying different things in my videos, romantic, funny, involving the whole cast…it’s a lot of fun.”

Since this is the whole Outlander environment, being a fan is what we do here.  I am always asking my fellow Outlanderites if they have had any exciting fancounters.  Julia has a BIG ONE!

http://cdn4.teen.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/jennifer-lawrence-fangirling-whoalawrence.gif

“Meeting Sam was a BIG deal for me. He is so charming and sweet. We waited for him for a long time in the cold. When I met him I told him that he had shared a video I made and he got excited. Which of course just made my day.  And then he mentioned meeting me in an interview which was a thrill. He was sweet to all the fans there, he took time with us (as much as he could) and chatted with us. I have mentioned this before, but one thing I found really interesting happened while I was talking to the camera man waiting for Sam. The man told me that they have a lot of celebrities come in, but no one has been as nice and caring as Sam. He said Sam wanted to make sure he got to meet the fans, and was concerned because it was so cold. He said that we are very lucky to have him and he’s right. We are. I got to meet Cait too when she was in Toronto. I made a mad dash into downtown and got a quick meeting with her. There weren’t as many fans there (no one knew she was coming) so it didn’t last as long. She is even more stunning in person.  And very warm. The whole thing happened so fast, she had to quickly go to another location. I met Diana too when she came to the Fergus Festival last summer, which was something I was looking forward to.  She stayed late at the autograph signing for us and we were so grateful. I told her that she shared some of my videos. She told me I do a wonderful job with them. She also has this aura about her, I don’t think she stopped smiling the whole time.  And listening to her speak was a thrill I never thought I would have. She was very funny and took time to answer many fan questions.  I dream of meeting Tobias and I love Richard, Sophie, and Graham too.  Hopefully one day I will meet them. But I’ve been very lucky to have such great experiences with my idols.”

I asked Julia if she had any favourite videos and she gave me links to other creators.  It just goes to show that her love of making the videos isn’t limited to herself.  She promotes and respects others doing that same thing she is. That really is what attracts us ABOotlanders to her.  She is very kind.

Here are some of Julia’s personal recommendations:

“I really like Elena Vas videos. She’s so talented and has really inspired me to learn and try new things with my videos. I love this one Never Tear Us Apart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuaD_ZHtIxU ,  “Good For You” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFFVrzjYQCE&t=7s , and “Survivor” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJEnfxv_H9E

This is a beautiful one by Silverxvideso who also makes great videos “Already Gone” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEDUgY_fIgs “

Here are some of Julia’s videos that are sure to engage you.

Who Wants To Love Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPSATBXAUAo&t=212s

Uptown Funk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_QyGgrFFbA

I Put A Spell On You: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWV0ZE1OHho&t=33s

Thinking Out Loud: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzvQqVyq82Q

Better yet. Subscribe to her You Tube channel YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nancy777ca/videos

https://www.youtube.com/user/nancy777ca

Each of us have characters and actors we gravitate to more than others and Julia is no different.  She loves the whole cast and crew as she sees them to be inspiring. Everyday, it seems to change which one she is most inspired by. “I think it’s hard to pick one and my answer may change depending on what day you ask me. Today I’d probably pick Sam. He is so sweet and accessible to fans. He interacts with us and seems to genuinely have fun with his fans. It’s not at all to say the others don’t-they do! But His MPC is something that really is helping me and others live healthier, and overcome an obstacle, change something they’ve been wanting to. I can’t wait to get really started on it when the kids go back to school and I can be more organized again.  And Jamie is probably my favourite character in the series”

Many Outlander fans have not had a lot of experiences in fandoms before and it is new territory. Julia talks about her walk in the fandom world.

“I’ve never really been in a fandom before.  I was a bit in the Glee one, but I just followed towards the end-never participated. This is the first one I’ve really been in. It’s a lot of fun. To have people you could share ideas and creations with, so many talented people in the fandom. I love watching everyone’s labour of love. And I get really interested in other’s points of view. I don’t always agree, and sometimes it’s really hard to not get into arguments (I try though). Sometimes it’s hard to stay positive when you see some negativity. But overall, this is a great fandom. The vast majority of this fandom is wonderful, and very accepting, warm and encouraging. To the cast and crew but also to each other.  It’s a community, and in the end, we all want our community to be a fun place.”

I am not a creative kinda person so when I come into contact with them. I want to know how their brains work. Knowing that they must have ideas and notions that spring up, I wanted to know what Julia had up her sleeve for Season 3.

https://media.giphy.com/media/rVbAzUUSUC6dO/giphy.gif

“A few…last I counted I had over 70.  Yes, I know I’m crazy. I have a few I’m really looking forward to doing. “Don’t Know Much”, “Battlefield (by Lea Michele)” …and I’m really looking forward to doing one for “A Thousand Years”, it will be a recap of their love up to the Print Shop. Every time I hear a song I wanna do it.  And I get a lot of ideas from fellow fans.”

We all have a special dream for what Outlander will look like in the future.  Julia is no different.

“Diana has said there will be 10 books, so I’m envisioning 10 seasons. I’m an optimist. I especially hope we get season 6, because ABOSA is my favourite book in the series-if I had to chose one. I’m envisioning a show with longevity, with a cast and crew that gets accolades not only from fans but from the entertainment industry. They are so deserving of awards and nominations; I know it will come. The books just get better and I know the series will too. I also would like Diana to write more episodes. It was so much fun watching all the little tidbits she shared and insights she gave us into writing an episode. I hope we get that again.

https://media.giphy.com/media/GQT9tuAchaBG0/giphy.gif
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

Julia has a few words of encouragement to share with the Outlander fan family.

“Make it a fun place! I think everyone should have a place they can be a fan girl or fan boy the way they want to. Fandoms are supposed to bring joy.  There are great people in this fandom. We are very lucky to have such interactive cast/crew and Diana! There are a lot of Twitter/Tumblr accounts and groups on Facebook that are a lot of fun.”

As per each time we interview someone…we ask this ABOotlander deep and meaningful question.  What is your favourite – Moose Droppings,Prairie Oysters, Beaver Tails or Taber Corn?

When you say “moose droppings” you mean the chocolate treat right? LOL. I would choose Taber Corn…because I like corn, and I could say that without making a funny face.

https://media.giphy.com/media/4mEJL6Fz9T6py/giphy.gif

You can also find Julia on Tumblr

https://www.tumblr.com/blog/moduinne-and-redjamie

Droughtlander is to end soon. Share some love and share the gifts that Julia presents you in the form of her videos.

Sher

AKA SL

AKA #ABOotlanderFounder

ABOotlander on the ground.

 

The Other Outlander “F” word. FRANK.

by

Yup. In the history of Outlander there has always been discussions about Frank. If we think this is a new topic of conversation because of the way the TV show has presented him.  We are wrong. This is just one discussion that is 6 yrs old . It took place on Karen Henry’s blog, Outlandish Observations, which was started in 2008. See…WAY before the show became a “thing”.

I assure you, these discussions/arguments have been happening since the first book came out. My guess, somewhere in the world on June 2, 1991 the first debate about Frank and his place in Claire’s story took place. Why? Because there is a distinct character there, with a distinct personality. The interesting part is which side people fall on.

Frank is the man who was left behind by Claire’s unintended trip into the past. It’s funny, not “haha” funny but “Hmmmmm, how about that?” funny – that if you love him, you defend him like no one’s business – or you despise him and everything he stands for…oh wait…everything we believe he stands for.

Frankly (heehee), he is one of the most complex characters in the Outlander series. Why in the world would I say that? It’s true. That’s why. In 8 books, we keep getting snippits of his story. We THINK we know it all but that’s not true. Diana still has not fully revealed what unquestionably happened in the 20 yrs Claire spent with Frank.  I don’t think that is because she doesn’t care or it’s not important. I believe it is because there is so much to tell, so much that is laying underneath…Frank is simply one of those Tetris pieces that hasn’t fallen completely into place.  We don’t have to like him to know his importance in the story. Perhaps that is where some of us stumble. “WE” don’t like him so he doesn’t belong.  Seems kinda like my high school years allllll over again. OMG…I’m FRANK!

I hope we can see how short sighted that mindset is in the grand scheme of Diana’s tomes. Everyone, whether we like their character or not, has their place in the story she has written. We might think Mr. Willoughby served no purpose but the truth is, he did. In Diana’s story…and lets be frank (snort), it is HER story.  We digest it the way our brain see’s fit, not necessarily as it was written.  Its like broccoli, some people devour it and love everything about it and some get indigestion and end up super gassy.

giphy4

The “F” word has been popping up again because of this picture in this article.

Outlander Season 3

Lots of people took it as a personal nose rubbing because Frank isn’t that big of a deal to them, they don’t personally care for him or they believe he needs to hurry up and die already. Lots of people LOVED the photo, saw it showed what life would be like for Claire & Frank in the future, validated their feelings that Frank’s a good guy. An important good guy.

Neither of these view points are wrong.  Why?  Because people are people and they feel how they feel.  The trouble is when we get to the point where we believe only our view has merit.  Only our view is “right” and our need to express it in ways that are pointless to the grand scheme of things.  Examples of pointless expressions might be : anger, telling people how to do their job, spitefulness or passive aggressiveness. One of my favourite sayings is…You can say what you mean – without being mean.  We can also do that without trying to make others adhere to our beliefs.

Outlander (the show) has a story to tell. The writers, producers and directors want to make the best show possible in their eyes. That is where the crux of it all is. Their eyes.  What is the thing about eyes folks?  They are all unique.  They all see things differently.  Those who want to bask in the things they see…will.  Those who want to contradict the same visions, won’t stop because someone says “You are wrong.”  If it were the “fans” that created the show it would say in the credits SHOWRUNNER – Fans, but it doesn’t. It says Ronald D. Moore.   Whether you believe that’s good or bad, it’s his to run the show.

I have no issues at all with those who use critical thinking to express their thoughts.  I have no issues with rose coloured glasses and those who choose to love everything.  My view is simply to be kind to one another while expressing your differences and maybe, just maybe allow each person their view.

Frank isn’t the bad guy. He isn’t the hero. He’s an intricate part of a story about a woman who is torn between times. The story, whether we believe it needs to be told or not, is the story.  Perhaps sitting back and experiencing the ride is the solution.  Like a roller coaster, some are going to love it…some are gonna wanna puke when it’s over. Either way…it is the experience that creates the outcome.

2001

Hold on everyone, buckle your seat belts. If I know anything about this fandom, and I think I do…it’s gonna be a helluva ride!

giphy8

 

Side note- I don’t think anyone can deny…Tobias Menzies…is super awesome, pretty good looking and well – brought Frank to life. Whether you like that particular life or not – is up to you.

SherryLynn

Founder of the ABOotlanders