Three posts in a row

Something is definitely wrong. This is the third post that has been written, on time, in a row. This cannot be good news...

It's alright though, I haven't got much to say this time. Firstly, despite the fact that he clearly has a very severe engine issue that my friend Michael and I have been unable to fathom, Ernie continues to march on steadfastly. No matter what the job, my amazing nearly 23 year old car does whatever is asked of him. No matter the distance, no matter the destination, no matter the reason - Ernie is the unstopable force.

Having said that, Ernie did have a little hiccup this week. Running slightly late, Ernie once again fired up into action, and got me to University in cracking time through traffic. On the way, I have to join a road at a staggered junction. Just as I was pulling out (after admittedly using slightly too much right foot) Ernie decided that, nah, he's not playing any more. The engine cut out, and I hadn't enough speed to complete the tunr onto the road. So there I was, sat in the middle of the road, with an engine that won't start, looking at two streams of traffic barreling down on me. I couldn't help but think 'Oh dear, this is somewhat unfortunate and inconvenient...'.

With no luck after several attempts, I decided the only way to stop completely blocking the road, was to give Ernie a hand, and for the very first time since I have taken ownership of my amazing car, push him. Fortunately, Ernie is nothing if he isn't light, and despite being the world's most capabel estate car, I can easily steer him, whilst having the driver's doop open, and push. We were quickly in the opposite side road.

A very nice man jumped out of his car, and ran over to give us a hand. Whilst he pushed from the boot, he asked 'Out of petrol, is it?'. To which I replied, with a sigh 'No, just old...'. Anyways, I sat back in my car, waited a few seconds (as I was convinced the engine was just flooded), and then Ernie roared back into life again. I really must get some money together to get the engine sorted.

Second important news of the week, is my eagerly awaited review of a new film: Star Trek. I know that CATCOUK has become very popular over the years, and my reviews have become very important within the industry (I'm not sure which industry, but probably something like flying pig breeders). Anyways, I understand J J Abrams himself has been waiting on the edge of his seat (not) to read this. He really does (not) want to know how many Escorts out 5 his new interpretation of this old classic will be awarded. So here we go.

As many of you will know, I am a definite trekkie. I am not ashamed to say that I think my life has been effected for the better by the high ideals and concepts presented by Star Trek, and for me, Captain Kirk, Spock, McCoy, and Scotty are the crew for me. I will admit that I was initially skeptical of the concept of yet another prequal (has no one got an orginal story to tell anymore), but I was very welcome to accept a new adventure with my favourite crew.

I am pleased to say that I was not disappointed. And on so many levels. J J Abrams is a genious, and the writers have achieved a modern day masterpiece. They have developed a story that is very exciting, simple, and full of action - just want 'normal people' want to watch. But more than that, they have managed to weave in a blend of inside jokes, nods, and comments that give us trekkies like me to appreciate. But better than that, if you're willing to read between the lines, it is very acceptable story, that could be cannon (trekkies, look up Star Trek countdown).

There are definite flaws - what the heck is 'red matter'? Star Trek has never given us such a vague concept before. The main plot of the story revolves around black holes, but black holes just don't do what they said in the film. The term 'quantum singularity' would probably have solved this plot flaw, but we all know that non-trek fans would have been confused. Fair play. But don't fear too much, just like Trek of old, the bad-guy isn't very well explained, and the character is a little flat (although brilliantly portrayed).

Zachary Quinto plays an amazing Spock - very well done sir. And he really does look like a young Leonard Nimoy. Simon Pegg did not dissappoint with Scotty, although he joined a little late (the biggest cheer from the audience I was with was when Mr. Scott said 'I'm giving it all she's got captain!'). And for me, a special congratulations to Karl Urban, who has got the spirit of Bones McCoy down to a tee. I have nothing against Chris Pine, but I don't think this story was about Kirk. And that is a huge departure from older Star Trek. I think it would be difficult for anyone to play Captain Kirk, so I'm not going to criticise him. I think we'll see better when he's allowed to sit in the captain's chair in the already ordered sequal.

Ultimately, this is an amazing film that is worth seeing whether you have been a fan of the previous Star Trek films or not. There is something for everyone, action, adventure, and humour (something never achieved convincingly by Trek before). Trek fans, go and see it. Expect to see a new adventure with the characters you remember and love, but don't expect a Trek-worthy plot with many complications.

From my enthusiasm, I'm sure you know where this is going. 4 Escorts out of 5, and a Starship Enterprise. I would love to give a fifth Escort, but fear that there are just a few too many flaws for that maximum rating (but I did give it a starship Enterprise as well). J J Abrams has done a wonderful job, and this is a film to satisfy all. I'm really looking forward to the next one.

Wow, that was the most comprehensive review ever!

Lastly, I was invited to a quix night tonight with TS Sturdy in Chichester. I love quizzes, because I like to have my brain stretched, and feel accomplishment. It's not about the winning, it definitely is about the taking part. But when Graham invited me, I didn't know that he had got the questions from MENSA! Well, maybe not MENSA, but it was definitely the hardest quiz I have even attended. Let me put it this way - the easist questions were the brain teaser questions near the end (I answered all but 1 of them, and 1 I only solved after someone made a comment).

I had the opportunity to join any team really. There was one team of only cadets, but I don't like to diminish cadet's achievements. If I'd known that the questions were going to be this hard, I would have helped them out to give them a chance. Well, at least they won a consolation bag of sweets. I know that I am trying to recover from the massive strain Uni put me under, but I don't think my brain is that far gone!

Regardless of the impossible questions, it was a fun evening, so thanks very much Graham.

Well, you;ll be pleased to hear that I am now well on the way to recovery from Uni. My last serious essay was handed in Friday, just a video left. I coming out of my long spell of depression, and over-taxing, and I think I'm coming back better than ever. I'm nearly back up to speed with NTC (although there are still some messes that even I can't clear up - Intrepid officers, you know what I mean [cough] AGM), and all is well with the world. Just need to get a job now then.

Goodnight.

(the long awaited return of the...)

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: 'Oh, I thought it was only the 8th today' replied Hannah, after bursting into the room and asking what the date would be next weekend. Yeah, think about that.