Back to the Future: How accrurate was their prediction?

Introduction:
Who knows what the world will look like in 2045. The way that technology is improving day-by-day, there is no telling what will change between now and then. For us to make a prediction would be difficult. However, this was a similar question posed in 1989, when “Back to the Future 2” was released. The film saw Marty McFly and Doc Brown travel to the future, set in October 21st 2015 – the date of today. They predicted what the world would look like. So on the day being called “Back to the Future Day”, let’s take a look at how accurate their prediction was.

back_to_future_day

What they got Incorrect:
Sadly they were unable to predict some aspects of life in 2015. These include:

  • Fax Machines – The film predicted that fax machines would be used hugely, being everywhere in this year, in reality, they are not used much at all!
  • Smartphone Technology – Trying to predict the trends in technology are next to impossible. But without doubt one of the most prevalent features of day-to-day life all around the world is the use of smartphones.
  • Flying Cars powered by rubbish – Although there has been some movement on flying cars, there hasn’t been enough to suggest they got that one right. But in 2045, perhaps then all would have changed!

What they predicted right:
To rightly predict anything within this time frame is a huge achievement, so the fact that the following list is of a good length is testament to the filmmakers.

  • Thumbprint technology: A character in the film named “Biff” paid for a taxi journey with a thumb print. Of course, fingerprint technology is now seen on the iPhone 6, as well as selected apps such as Bounce.
  • Video Glasses: Wearable technology is a fast-expanding industry, with again Back to the Future getting this one right. The “Google Glass” is perhaps the best example of this, while Microsoft announced recently the “Hololens” – again they got this one right.
  • Video Calls: As well as video glasses, they also correctly predicted that video calls would be part of life. The characters in the film talk to each other through screens, just like Skype or WhatsApp.
  • Flat-Screen Televisions: In the 1980s TV’s were very large, yet all these years on we see flat-screen televisions frequently, in a range of sizes too. The film correctly predicted that this would take place.
  • Self-tying shoes:  Nike are believed to be developing trainers with inbuilt motors, which will allow laces on shoes to be self-tied.

How the Internet has reacted:
As always with these cultural phenomenon’s, the Internet has reacted hugely to the day. Police Forces all over Australia have been making light of the day, suggesting they are investigating crashes or incidents involving vehicles reminiscent of those within the film. Twitter has been the source of most of the discussion, with users all around the world interacting. In an age where sad news dominates the headlines, this is certainly a welcome break. Great British TV Channel ITV2 have been hosting a “back to the future” day, which has included the film series being shown, back-to-back.

2045?
It is only right to also predict what the future will look like some time from now. Of course, it is very difficult given how quickly the world advances, but you would think that given how fast technology is improving, that day-to-day life would have been further revolutionized even then. One thing is for certain, on this date in, for example, 2045, that we are all in the position to look back on the last thirty years and be happy with how our lives have panned out. It is up to us in this present day to be responsible for this.

Conclusion:
It has been a happy day for many. Everywhere you looked there was some sort of reference to Back to the Future. The film series has left a lasting impression that is very impressive. They correctly predicted many features of life in 2015, which was no easy feat. There is no telling what will change in the forthcoming years, but these are surely exciting times to be alive. I wish for a very successful and prosperous next few years for all those reading this. We shall have to wait and see what the future holds!

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(‘063’)

Nick Jonas: On the Charge

For fans of singer Nick Jonas, these are exciting times. After starting out as one third of the Jonas Brothers, he has gone from strength to strength in the last year, with a bright future seemingly ahead for Jonas. However, despite this bright future, this didn’t seem too likely a couple of years ago, with Jonas doing very well to get back into the public eye. Looking ahead, Nick Jonas is in a very good positon!

NickJonas

Jonas was born in 1992 in Dallas, Texas, United States of America. He came to prominence thanks to the success of the pop-rock band the “Jonas Brothers”, made up of Nick and his two older brothers – Joe and Kevin. He also had acting roles in Disney programs. In August 2006 the first album produced by the brothers was released – entitled “It’s about time.” After an underwhelming time at their first record label, the band switched to Hollywood Records soon enough. A self-titled album helped to gain the band mainstream popularity.

After a few years success, Nick Jonas then undertook solo projects, including various acting positions. In late 2013, the Jonas Brothers officially split. While there has been limited news about Joe and Kevin since, Nick has made the most of the split. July 2014 appeared to be the start of a new era for Jonas, after the release of his song “Chains”, he began to get a foothold once again in the ultra-competitive pop music industry. His next song “Jealous” was a huge, international success which has helped him hugely. The song charted all around the world, with this song putting Jonas firmly back in the eye of the public.

2015 has so far seen him touring, making the most of his success. Jonas seems to have a very bright future ahead of him. He continues to release songs periodically, with it easy to forget that he has only just turned 23 – his best years are surely ahead of him. Comments on social media tend to be very positive towards him – suggesting that he could be around for a long time yet, perhaps to the extent of becoming one of the most famous and potentially successful pop artists in the world, though these are early days yet of course.

The point of this post was to highlight the persistence of Nick Jonas. When I was in Secondary school and the Jonas Brothers were in their pomp, they were the “heart-throbs”, with all of the teenage girls being mega-fans of the trio. I would hear about them all of the time, with all the girls gushing over their every move! Somewhere along the way, their popularity waned and I, unbeknownst to be at the time, didn’t hear about them for years, I completely forgot about them. Then in mid-2015, when I heard the song “Jealous”, I kept replaying it. Soon enough I realised it was Nick Jonas who was singing it! It seems that after a two-year lull, his hard work is paying off now.

Overall, as the introduction suggested, any fans of Nick Jonas are in a good moment. Jonas has seen his popularity increase a lot recently and will have high hopes for the future. Whether it be acting or singing, the supremely talented American will surely be around for many years yet. It is great to see a talented individual do well – Jonas has worked hard to get back into the public eye, with only now it seems he is reaping the rewards. The next few years will be important as he looks to cement his place as one of the most well-known pop stars not only in USA, but the world. Given his ability, anything is possible for Jonas.

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(‘062’)

Travel: Experiencing Portugal

Sadly, in the last few years, I have not taken the chance to visit different places. After all, it is a huge world, with so much to see in such a short space of time. Travelling can be one of the most interesting things – getting to embrace new cultures and see first hand the different events that take place in other countries. Therefore, I jumped at the chance to visit Portugal for the first time recently. On reflection, I had a very good time, with Portugal impressing me a lot!

portugal

I visited Praia De Luz – a popular tourist location. In the ten days I was there, I visited the surrounding areas as well as the different locations in Luz itself. The Luz beach was stunning – when the weather is good, it is the ideal place to go, with the sea luscious and very inviting! With a range of thriving eating and bar facilities on the nearby tree-lined promenade, a fantastic atmosphere is created.

Luz itself is a very pretty place. In the above picture, the before-mentioned beach is in full view, but also in view is the mountain behind. Although I didn’t climb the entire way to the top (the incline was too severe!), I did manage to climb to the extent of being able to look over Luz and the surrounding area. As well as this, I managed to find the time to walk around Luz and see the different sides to it, for which I heavily enjoyed.

On the transfer from the airport to my accommodation,  I did manage to see a lot of Portugal itself. I felt the long transfer was going to be daunting, however it turned out to be anything but, with the journey allowing me to see a lot of the area. I was impressed with Portugal itself, the area was very clean, well-presented, and the locals were all very, very friendly. After leaving I told myself that this should certainly not be the last time that I visit the area, I hope to return soon and see more of the nation.

In terms of the recommendations I can give if anyone is visiting Luz, two eating facilities jump out, as well as the accommodation where I stayed. The Ocean Club, despite having negative connotations with the Great British public due to an unfortunate event in 2007, the Club was very impressive. The apartment was impressive, with the Club in the centre of Luz close to all of the required facilities. The two previously mentioned two recommended locations would the the Amicci Restaurant and the Look Café.

Overall, my visit to Praia De Luz was a very interesting affair, with the ten days spent there producing a very fun stay. It was my first time in Portugal, but as I said, I would certainly like to return again in the future. The location was very nice, with so many tourists there it was easy to understand its popularity! Overall, a very enjoyable stay, I hope to return to Portugal soon, and would encourage others to do the same!

/MF/
(‘059’)

Calais Migrants Crisis: Analysis

An on-going issue currently is the Calais migrant crisis affecting not only France and England, but also the wider realms of Europe – who have to deal with the knock-on effects. For the past few days, several thousand migrants have been attempting to pass through the Eurotunnel, with the aim of making it to the United Kingdom – where an attractive benefits scheme for the migrants lies in wait.

PC: Wikipedia
PC: Wikipedia

After talking to several others about the situation, it is near-shocking now negatively the migrants are being seen. It is arguable this is because how they have been portrayed in the media. I had the misfortune of hearing one person’s view at my workplace, a customer suggested the Police should “shoot them all.” But of course that would never happen thankfully, and never work, after all, Europe is a highly civilised continent, with integrity at the heart of their values. We hear so many grizzly stories about events in Syria and Iraq, and yet it is people trying to flee these war zones that are the migrants. It isn’t just Iraqi’s and Syrian’s, people from the likes of Libya and Somalia are doing the same.

We in the United Kingdom are so fortunate to live where we do. These migrants risk their lives to make it to the UK. What is most important to remember is – they are humans too. I am sure any of us British people would attempt to do the same thing if the crisis was the other way round, and the UK was in disarray with other nations safer. One person even died in the chaos, going to show how dangerous it is for the migrants once they reach Europe, let alone the travails they go through to get here in the first place.

However there is no avoiding the chaos that has come as a consequence to the migrants crisis. It is understandable the resentment towards them for the closures of the channel tunnel at times, and the mass queues on British motorways. But in response to this, the same idea is prevalent – they are human and deserve better. Hopefully attitudes towards them will change in the coming times, all it takes is a bit of consideration of what they have been through to get to where they are today.

It is just so difficult to imagine the pain they have been through – and how happy, and relieved they must be, to have made it to Europe. The pictures I have seen have painted the story that the migrants are tired and struggling, but that their faith has never dwindled and that they continue to hold belief that they can make it to their intended destination. They seem relieved to be surrounded by the French Police in that they feel safe – something I am sure they haven’t been able to feel for some times – after all, that is what we all yearn to feel – safe.

Overall, the migrant crisis is a very difficult situation to analyse, with no real true solution. Of course, there simply isn’t the space for all of the migrants to be housed in Europe, though it would be totally inhumane to send them back to where they came from, as hurt and pain, perhaps even death, is all that they would go back to. But hopefully a strong solution will result from this crisis. We shall have to wait and see, but I hope safety awaits the migrants, regardless of what is decided for them.

/MF/
(‘058’)

Apologies for the lack of posts recently, more to come soon, thanks for reading!

The Bill: Underappreciated?

Police-procedural “The Bill” finished in 2010 after a mammoth 2400 episodes. Running for more than twenty years, the series handed acting debuts to many well-known actors and provided some of the most memorable hours in TV history. While some TV programs are celebrated and near-immortalised years after they finish, the same can’t be said for The Bill. So is it fair to suggest that the program should be shown more appreciation?

PC: Digital Spy
PC: Digital Spy

The Bill first aired in 1986 as “Woodentop”. In the forthcoming years, the show would take place normally on either one, two or three occasions a week, developing a cult following in the process. The Bill was the longest-running police procedural television series in the United Kingdom. The Bill would usually follow the format of Policemen solving crimes in an hour, with credit certainly due to the writers for how they kept the program fresh. In and around the 2002-2003 age of the show, the show switched to a more-soap like format.

The show wasn’t afraid to go to branch out where other dramas wouldn’t go. The personal lives of the characters was heavily explored, with storylines including a homosexual relationship and attitudes towards ethnic minorities, especially the conflict it could potentially cause within the Metropolitan Police. There was also a major overhaul in 2009 which led to more “gritty” storylines, which included the show moving past the 9pm “Watershed” time – allowing more graphic scenes, and perhaps, more realism.

Eventually, in 2010 the show was cancelled by network ITV. The final episode was aired on 31 August 2010, with a high amount of viewers tuning in to see the climax of the show. The show dedicated its finale “Respect” to the “men and women of the Metropolitan Police Service past and present.” The show, throughout its broadcast, catered to an International audience – showing the impact of it.

The Bill was incredibly well-known and became a part of the UK Culture. Without doubt its impact cant be understated, with several successful acting careers being launched because of the show, while many have memories of the time spent watching the show with family and friends – it is highly the vast majority of those who have lived in the UK since the late 1980s have watched the program. There are countless memorable storylines that came from the show – ones that have even been used as inspiration for other programs of a similar nature – but nothing quite compares to The Bill.

Therefore, it could be argued that the show is vastly underappreciated and deserves more recognition. The problem was, that due to the sheer volume of episodes being churned out, that there was so little time to stop and appreciate what a great program it was. However, now that the show has finished, especially five years on, it is certainly easy to appreciate what a good program it was.

/MF/
(‘056’)

University Year One: Reviewing the Experience

I have been busy recently completing my exams for the first year of University. Since completing them, I have enjoyed time to rest and re-charge the batteries! As I prepare to leave the University for the best part of three months – it is time for me to reflect on what has been a very interesting year – where I have learned a lot, met new friends and developed skills which should help me as I progress through life.

uniy1

My first thoughts are just how quick time has gone. I still remember nine months ago leaving home for the first time. I remember being incredibly nervous, but excited at the same time. Saying farewell to my family was a difficult experience, albeit only for three months. And yet, now, after the great experiences I have shared with my flatmates and friends, it was just as hard saying farewell to them for the Summer break – they have become like family. I remember being overwhelmed by the whole experience in the first few days – but in time I adjusted and ended up having a memorable time – I like to think that I made good use of my time.

In terms of the academic side of University – which is of course the most important part – there was certainly a step-up from previous studies. However, focusing on a certain subject, compared to three or four, was very appealing and allowed me to hone my skills. I adjusted well though to the changes, what made me proud were the stories I heard of students at my former school “dropping-out” of University after a few weeks. I always felt eventually the true strength of character of people would be shown in a testing time like this one. I also learned a lot about teamwork – I am not a fan of teamwork at all and prefer to work alone, but having to rely on others should help me in the future as I prepare in a few years to move into the workplace!

I would suggest perhaps what is best about University is the amount of different and exciting people you meet. There are a huge amount of cultures that convene upon one area, the amount you learn in enthralling. I am lucky to be part of a University with an enormous – 300 acre plus campus – when taking a walk around the campus it is hard not to admire the view – young people with bright futures sitting together, laughing – overall having a good time. Education is a wonderful thing – despite the huge costs involved, it is certainly well worth it.

My only real regret is that I perhaps didn’t push myself enough at the beginning of the year. As I mentioned before – I was struggling to come to terms with the mass change involved. But while others embraced the change, I almost hid in a shell, and started thinking too much! I believe the image below is something I should have embraced, but others in a similar position can use to their advantage!

uniy12

Overall, it was a difficult choice to decide whether to go to University this year or the 2015/16 year, but I am delighted with the choice of going this year. I would certainly recommend it to anyone – it is a character-building exercise more than anything. I am fortunate to have made new friends here – hopefully friends for life, while I am also blessed to have the supportive family I do. Furthermore to also have the loyal followers and viewers of my blog – to give me the platform to express my views. In conclusion, it has been a very good year, I look forward to the summer now, before it all starts again in mid-September, where I hope for another successful year!

/MF/
(‘055’)

Debate: Is USA the Greatest Country in the World?

“When USA sneezes, the world catches a cold.” That famous quote which has been repeated over the years is still relevant to this day. When ascertaining what the greatest country in the world is, many different factors have to be taken into account. While there is no definite answer to this question, there is no doubting how powerful USA are, and that they are great.

usagreat

While there can be no doubting the fact USA is a global super-power, it appears in recent times that the country has been in somewhat of a decline. Broadcast network HBO’s series “The Newsroom” managed to make the real-life news thanks to a scene where a character tells a young woman through the use of statistics and well-constructed arguments, that despite her beliefs, that USA isn’t actually the greatest country in the world.

The conclusion from the scene sees the character say “I believe in American exceptionalism, just as I suspect the Brits believe in British exceptionalism and the Greeks believe in Greek exceptionalism.” The people of USA, at least from a British perspective, are renowned for being hugely patriotic and proud of their nation. But it appears that perhaps the people of USA are starting to think otherwise, and aren’t as patriotic as they appear.

If you think about what “great” entails, freedom and democracy would be at the forefront of any list. The idea of the “American Dream” truly is great, and is thought of fondly by British people as a fresh start. The famous Statue of Liberty also has connotations of freedom, while USA has a very successful democracy, allowing everyone within the country to have a voice. Finally, USA appears to be a very fair country, where the citizens are free to live life in their own way.

Criticisms of USA, and those who would oppose that USA is the greatest country, have many statistics and theories to provide substance to their argument. The arrival of Obamacare could be attributed to many alarming statistics based on health, while the lifestyle, healthcare and education system as well have all been questioned on numerous occasions.

Back to the pro-USA argument, it could then be argued as to why successful education countries such as China send an influx of students to USA for their education. Some of the greatest and most innovatory businesses in history, such as Microsoft and Amazon, have been founded by American’s – and who can question the impact Google has had – again, an American creation, as well as the social media giants of Facebook and Twitter.

On balance, it is hard to question the power USA has, and the positive impact the country and its people have had on society, and overall, the world. Although perhaps there is not as much patriotic behaviour as there once was, the people of America seemingly have a lot to be proud of. Overall, it appears, that there could well be a very strong argument to suggest that USA is indeed the greatest country – without doubt they have had a hugely influential impact on the lives we all lead.

/MF/
(‘054’)

This post was written as Millicent Faith approaches 1000 views from USA, thanks for the support, and all the best. 

UK Election 2015: Summary, Reaction and Perspective

The 2015 UK Election is complete, with the Conservative Party, led by David Cameron, set to stay on in power, with The Labour Party and Liberal Democrats among those to suffer disappointing results. This election was being touted as one of the closest in decades, however in the end it was a landslide victory for the Conservative party. Many thought another coalition would be required, though in the end, the Conservative Party will lead with a majority.

election

The election also seems to mark the end of a political era. Many big name politicians have lost seats, while many parties have had their influence shredded. Gordon Brown, ex-Prime Minister, was just one of the huge amounts of Labour MP’s to lose their seats to the Scottish National Party (SNP). Many believe it was the fear of the SNP engaging in a Labour coalition that led to such a high amount of Conservative votes. Vince Cable and Ed Balls were other high profile politicians to lose their seats.

Meanwhile Ed Miliband leader of the Labour Party, has stood down, ending his time as leader. Miliband received a lot of praise for his efforts – though it does appear it was the right time to change. Miliband did, however, hold on to his seat and will therefore be a part of the House of Commons. Nick Clegg, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, also called time on his reign as leader of his party. The Liberal Democrats lost a huge amount of seats, with their student fees decision coming back to haunt them, though again, Clegg held on in Sheffield Hallam. Finally, Nigel Farage, leader of the controversial UKIP party, also resigned, though his party did manage one seat.

It certainly marks the end of an era for UK politics, though it is surely the dawn of a new beginning. Whenever an election arises though, it is a time for perspective. It is a time for everyone within the 650 constituencies to be thankful for the fact the UK does have a democracy. It means that realistically, everyone has a voice. Many people don’t have this sort of a privilege, and in light of the various controversies that have arisen in this election, the fortune of being in a democracy must not be forgotten.

So overall, another election has passed. Conservative remain in power, with now a coalition government no longer required. Many big name politicians have lost their seats, while the SNP have gained an incredible amount of influence in Scotland. It will be interesting to see where the Labour Party will go from here, while the Liberal Democrats need a huge re-think. Only time will tell if Britain has made the right decision in re-electing the Tories, it shall be interesting to sit back and view the consequences.

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(‘052’)

The review of the 2015 UK Election will continue with the next post – which will look at whether or not it is time for a political reform, with a “proportional-representation” system required.

The Value of Anything: It’s only known when Gone

“See you Again” is the hit song by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth that acts as the soundtrack to the end of the famous “Fast and Furious 7” movie. The movie acts as a tribute to the now-deceased Paul Walker. The movie has been a huge commercial success and fans of Walker have found the ending to be incredibly emotional. However, one You Tube comment that gained particular attention was one talking about how only now Walker is appreciated. This is true of anything in life – something is only truly appreciated when it is gone.

fast7

Paul Walker was a well-known actor who passed away in 2013 at the age of 30. The cause of death was a car crash, before flames engulfed the car. Walker had completed much of the filming for the movie Fast 7 before his death. However, in a fitting touch, the Director changed the ending to accommodate a tribute to Paul Walker, where his character meets with actor Vin Diesel’s character, the two sharing a final drive together before driving in their separate ways, followed by a “For Paul” graphic. The scene has garnered rave reviews, with many finding it incredibly emotional. I mentioned in the Introduction that there had been a comment on You Tube that had inspired this post, written by a user dubbed “Austin K” – take a look at what he had to say:

AustinK

This comment does beg the question – why is it that something is only appreciated when it is gone? But it is also quite a sad question, which I am sure many people can relate to in many different ways. Supposedly the answer is quite simple – when someone or something is no longer around, only then you realise you never had the chance to say all of those things you wish you had been able to say.

Moreover, it is interesting how the comment talks about being “nice and compassionate.” This also begs the question why society can’t be like this all of the time. There are always so many meaningless arguments in life, disagreements which shrouds friendships in disarray. It looks as if it would be near-impossible for society to always be compassionate about one another, until sadly the person isn’t around any longer.

As I said earlier, I am sure many people can relate to the messages in this post. As sad as it is – it is true that the value of something is only known when it is gone. It is highly possible that anyone reading this has lost someone or something that they wish had been treated differently. But sadly that is life, but it doesn’t mean that  the good times shared with the person can be forgotten and the happy times treasured.

Overall, the 2013 death of Paul Walker led to an outpour of grief, perhaps his true talent was only appreciated then. We often see with celebrity deaths, such as Michael Jackson and other famous singers, that only then are they appreciated. But it isn’t just celebrities, it is the friends, brothers, sisters of people who too are only truly appreciated when they are gone. A final message would be to therefore cherish every second of life, as we never know what lies around the corner – make the most of what life has to offer.

/MF/
(‘050’)

This is my 50th post. Thanks for all of the views up to this point. All the best for the forthcoming times, here’s to the next 50! Keep the Faith all!