Finding Kristin Schaal: An AI Journey

I've got a hard one.  I'm thinking of a moderately well known, but also very creative and avante garde female comic.  She's often incorporated oddly raunchy things in her act but almost in a Ernie Kovacs way.  She's had at least one full tv special.  I think of her kind of like Amy Schumer or Sarah Silverman, and I'm embarrassed I've totally forgotten her name.  She has sort of an oval face and long brown hair, and I think her last name is very German.   Any suggestions?

ChatGPT

Based on the description you provided, I believe you might be thinking of Kristen Schaal. She has an oval face, long brown hair, and a somewhat German-sounding last name. Schaal is known for her quirky and offbeat sense of humor, and while she has done stand-up and appeared in various television shows and specials, she might be most recognized for her roles in "Bob's Burgers" as the voice of Louise Belcher and "Flight of the Conchords" as Mel. Would that be the comic you're thinking of?

User

OMG absolutely that is it and you it on first try!  I used to know her name instantly, but haven't thought of her for a year or more.  Bingo.

ChatGPT

I'm glad I could help! Kristen Schaal is definitely a unique and memorable talent in the comedy world. If you have any more questions or need information on another topic, feel free to ask!

Fox, Duck, and Corn: AI Makes Good Joke

Usually when you ask AI to make jokes, they come out vaguely resembling jokes, but pretty corny and weak.  ("Pretend that Bela Lugosi is alive and becomes a top stand-up comic.  Offer 3 jokes." [*])

Here, I was noodling around with Chat GPT4 and it came up with an amazingly good joke, but let me add two comments after I show it.

• This blog also available as a 3 minute video...
• https://youtu.be/19hxCuGiOr8

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Many people in English will be familiar with the logic puzzle of a fox, a duck, and a bag of corn being shuttled across a river in a small boat, 2 at a time.   They will also be familiar with jokes of the type, a rabbi and a priest walk into a bar. Make a joke or a story that is clever, by mixing these two, starting off, a fox, a duck, and a bag of corn walk into a bar. ChatGPT

A fox, a duck, and a bag of corn walk into a bar. The bartender looks up and says, "Is this one of those logic puzzles?"

###

OK, I thought that was pretty damn good [**] , and we could leave it there. 

But let me try two other angles.

First, I wondered if this was a well-known joke, easily found on the internet.  I tried google.  I found a blog with the title, but it's wasn't a joke and didn't use Chat GPT's joke.

###

Second...Here's the rest of the story.  After making what I took to be a pretty clever new joke, above, Chat GPT prattled on in a boring and not-funny way, unaware it had already made a great joke.  The  dull continuation is below.

A fox, a duck, and a bag of corn walk into a bar. The bartender looks up and says, "Is this one of those logic puzzles?"

The duck quacks, "No, we're just trying to get across the river, but the boat rental fees have skyrocketed."

The fox chimes in, "Yeah, and the ferryman now only takes drinks as payment."

The bag of corn rustles, implying it agrees.

The bartender smirks, "Alright, I'll give you three drinks. But remember, I can't have the duck and the corn alone at the bar or the duck will eat the corn. And I can't have the fox and the duck alone or the fox will eat the duck."

The fox grins, "Sounds familiar. How about I go first?"

The bartender nods, "Fine. But no funny business, or you'll be solving a puzzle on how to get out of here!"

[*]

Here are three jokes, inspired by the hypothetical scenario where Bela Lugosi, famous for his portrayal of Count Dracula, becomes a top stand-up comic:

"You know, back in my Dracula days, I'd bite necks to survive. Now, I just bite into a microphone and hope the audience doesn't suck the life out of me!"

"People often ask if I sleep in a coffin. I tell them, 'Only when my hotel room isn't ready.' But honestly, it's hard to get good Wi-Fi in there!"

"I once tried online dating. My profile said, 'Enjoys long walks at night and has a thirst for... conversation.' You wouldn’t believe how many garlic necklaces I got as first date gifts!"

##

[**]

Younger people are 3X more likely to use GPT for "entertainment," so I guess I'm young at heart.

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/28/most-americans-havent-used-chatgpt-few-think-it-will-have-a-major-impact-on-their-job/  

AI-driven Lemming Stories

Write a story about a lemming, who is raised by psychologist to be raised similar to a human child. The lemming does surprisingly well, in this fantastical story, and goes to school and learns to read. 

Then one day the lemming stumbles across the book that describes that lemmings often commit mass suicide, by jumping off cliffs, which the young lemming, of course, finds very disturbing, and difficult to integrate with his sense of self living in a human community.

####

**The Scholarly Lemming**

In the quiet town of Elden, Dr. Amelia Collins, a renowned psychologist, embarked on an experiment that would soon become legendary. She adopted a young lemming she named Lyle and decided to raise him as close to a human child as possible.

To everyone's astonishment, Lyle thrived. He adapted quickly to his new surroundings. He learned to eat from a plate, slept in a tiny bed, and even began imitating human speech, albeit in squeaky, rodent-like tones. As the years passed, it became evident that Lyle was no ordinary lemming. He exhibited an uncanny ability to learn and understand.

When Lyle turned five (in lemming years, that's around six months), Dr. Collins introduced him to books. It was then that the town witnessed a miracle: Lyle learned to read. By using a combination of his tiny paws and keen eyesight, he flipped pages and devoured information.

Lyle's unique abilities soon caught the attention of Elden Elementary's principal, Mrs. Green. In an unprecedented move, Lyle was admitted to school. The children adored him, teachers admired his thirst for knowledge, and Lyle felt a sense of belonging.

However, a challenge awaited Lyle. One day, while rummaging through the school library, he stumbled upon a book titled "Mysteries of the Animal Kingdom." Curious, he began to read, especially the chapter about lemmings. To his horror, Lyle read about the myth that lemmings often commit mass suicide by jumping off cliffs.

This revelation shook Lyle's world. He couldn't understand how such a notion became associated with lemmings. With his cultivated intellect and human-like upbringing, the idea seemed alien and disturbing. He felt a deep conflict between the identity he had built and the misconceptions about his species.

Lyle confided in his best friend, Emma, a kind-hearted young girl who had always treated Lyle as an equal. Emma, seeing Lyle's distress, said, "Lyle, we all have myths and legends that don't define who we truly are. You've shown all of us that you're more than just a lemming. You're Lyle, the scholarly lemming, and that's who we love."

Determined to dispel the myth, Lyle, with the help of his classmates, organized a presentation about lemmings. He shared about their habitats, their diets, and their behaviors. 

By the end, he addressed the infamous lemming myth, explaining its origin and debunking its claims.

The presentation was a hit, and the community of Elden came together to celebrate Lyle's bravery. The tale of the scholarly lemming not only taught the town about lemmings but also about the power of self-belief and challenging stereotypes.

As for Lyle, he went on to pen a book, "Lyle: Beyond the Myth," which became a best-seller, further cementing his legacy as Elden's most cherished lemming.

####

We take it for granted, or has received wisdom, that lemmings do not hurl themselves in mass numbers off of cliffs, but instead, that is simply a myth propagated by a 1950s ill designed movie.   

Could imagine a world in which just the opposite is true, or lemmings, actually do her all themselves off clips, but they received wisdom is that they do not, and that is, it is simply an apocryphal myth. Since most of us will never see, lemmings, and in this alternate world they do for themselves off cliffs, we can be soothed in the false knowledge that it is only a myth that they hold them selves off cliffs. This is a bit confusing, but interesting, and please expand on this theme.

##

In the Parallel Land of Lemmings

In the alternate world of Altairea, lemmings were known to live harmoniously in vast tundras, and the local communities cherished the sights of these creatures. Schools taught children about the various species, habitats, and behaviors of animals, and when it came to lemmings, one lesson was unequivocal: the notion that lemmings would intentionally jump off cliffs was a baseless myth, a fiction concocted by storytellers of old.

This was the accepted truth for generations. Everyone believed it. Researchers dedicated their lives to studying lemming behaviors, but the cliff phenomenon was deemed unworthy of investigation, dismissed as mere folklore.

In the heart of Altairea, young Luna, a budding wildlife documentarian, had grown up hearing stories about the misunderstood behaviors of animals. The tale of the lemmings intrigued her the most. One evening, while chatting with her grandmother, Luna learned of old journals that spoke of these mass cliff events. Her curiosity piqued, and she decided she would venture out to uncover the truth behind the lemming's mysterious behavior.

Luna's journey took her to the most remote parts of Altairea. She meticulously documented the daily lives of lemmings, watching as they burrowed and played. Then, one fateful evening, she witnessed something astounding: a large group of lemmings, seemingly in a trance, moved purposefully toward a cliff and, one by one, jumped off.

Stunned by the discovery, Luna returned to her city with the footage. Her documentary, "The Enigma of the Lemmings," was met with shock and disbelief. Scientists, educators, and the general public grappled with this new truth. For so long, they had clung to the comforting belief that the cliff-jumping was just a myth.

Debates erupted. Some argued that Luna's footage was manipulated, while others believed it was an isolated incident. But more and more people came forward with similar stories, and it became evident that the "myth" was, in fact, a reality that had been ignored for too long.

The revelation forced Altaireans to confront the challenges of their understanding of nature. Many began questioning other long-held beliefs, leading to a renaissance of exploration and discovery.

In the aftermath, Luna's documentary not only reshaped the understanding of lemmings but also emphasized the importance of questioning received wisdom and the dangers of taking "common knowledge" for granted. The tale of the lemmings served as a reminder for generations: the truth is often more complex than it seems, and genuine understanding requires curiosity, observation, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Capuchin Monkey: Mr. Throttlebottom Invades "Cask of Amontillado" (Edgar Allen Poe)

Write a retelling of the story of a cask of amontillado by Edgar Allan Poe. (In the classic story, Montresor lures Fortunado to a tunnel and chamber, then walls him off down there.)  

In this retelling, Montresor is accompanied everywhere by his faithful companion: an energetic, playful and mischievous capuchin monkey named Mr. Throttlebottom.  

ChatGPT

"The Cask of Retribution"

The catacombs of the Montresors were as ancient and winding as the vendettas they held. Montresor, with a heart full of revenge and a flask full of wine, lured Fortunato into its depths. On this chilling evening, however, he wasn’t alone in his endeavor. Hopping alongside him was Mr. Throttlebottom, his faithful capuchin monkey, known for his zest for mischief.

Every now and then, the echoing corridors of the catacombs would be filled with Fortunato's cough or the clinking of the wine glasses. But in between those sounds, one could hear the playful chatters and antics of Mr. Throttlebottom. He'd occasionally swipe Fortunato's jester hat or mimic his toasts, adding an eerie sense of humor to the grim setting.

As they journeyed deeper, Montresor cleverly kept Fortunato's focus by feeding his ego and plying him with more wine. Mr. Throttlebottom, meanwhile, appeared to be content, darting in and out of nooks, collecting bones, and engaging in what seemed like harmless play.

When they reached the destined niche, Montresor's plan unfolded. He chained Fortunato, and as he began the grim task of bricking him up, Fortunato's muffled protests went from anger to pleas for mercy. Montresor, consumed by his task and the intoxication of vengeance, failed to notice what Mr. Throttlebottom was doing behind him.

With the final brick placed, sealing Fortunato's fate, Montresor paused to relish in his success. But as he turned to leave, his triumph was short-lived. He was met with a shocking sight: a fresh wall behind him. In his quest for revenge, Montresor had failed to notice that Mr. Throttlebottom, with the same bricks and mortar Montresor had brought, had been constructing his own barrier.

Montresor was trapped. Between him and Fortunato was just a chamber, and now both were victims of walls – one of revenge and the other of playful, yet ironic, retribution.

Mr. Throttlebottom, seemingly aware of his own devious handiwork, gave one last chittering laugh, grabbed Fortunato's jester hat, and disappeared into the darkness of the catacombs.

In the end, the machinations of man were outdone by the mischief of a monkey. The universe had its way of restoring balance, and in the grim depths of the Montresor catacombs, justice was ironically served by the most unexpected of agents.

__
Prompt Used.

In this retelling, Montresor is accompanied everywhere by his faithful companion and energetic, playful and mischievous capuchin, monkey named Mr. Throttlebottom. 

However, in addition to incorporating the monkey into the retelling of the story, there is a O’Henry surprise ending. While Montresor has been bricking up poor Fortunato, behind Montresor‘s back and to the surprise of the reader, the capuchin monkey has been bricking up his own wall, so when the story is finished, Montresor turns around to leave, and finds he has been walled in by the capuchin monkey, who escapes. This is a sort of celestial justification, a retribution, and the deus ex machina is the capuchin monkey.

___

This was the fourth appearance of the Capuchin monkey injected into classic literature (from Moby Dick to Glass Menagerie.) by Chat GPT.  Previously here, here, here.

AI on the Rabbit Pregnancy Test (1920s)

 There's an old joke or anecdote about a  pregnancy test and "you wait for the rabbit to die."   Is there any historical basis for that?

ChatGPT

Yes, there is a historical basis for the "rabbit test" joke, and it refers to an early method of pregnancy detection.

In the 1920s and 1930s, before the development of over-the-counter pregnancy tests, one of the methods used to detect pregnancy involved the injection of a woman's urine into a female rabbit. The test was based on the observation that certain hormones present in the urine of pregnant women would cause the ovaries of the rabbit to show distinct changes.

Here's how the test worked:

1. A sample of the woman's urine was injected into a female rabbit.
2. After a few days, the rabbit was dissected to examine its ovaries.
3. If the woman was pregnant, the rabbit's ovaries would show changes characteristic of the effect of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is present in the urine of pregnant women.

It's important to note that the rabbit would die regardless of the outcome; it needed to be dissected to examine the ovaries. However, a common misconception was that the rabbit would only die if the woman was pregnant, leading to the phrase, "the rabbit died."

Over time, advancements in science and technology led to the development of modern pregnancy tests that are much simpler, quicker, and don't involve harm to animals

AI on Two Movie Ideas: A Movie about Sequels; A Batman Meets Three Stooges Movie

 Provide a short summary or treatment. of a documentary movie about the business of making sequels

ChatGPT

Title: "Sequelized: The Business Behind the Encore"

Summary:

"Sequelized" delves into the fascinating and often controversial world of movie sequels. As Hollywood's appetite for franchises grows, this documentary seeks to understand the business motivations, creative challenges, and audience expectations surrounding these cinematic encores.

Starting with the golden age of Hollywood, where sequels were less common, the film charts the evolution of the sequel phenomenon. It highlights turning points, like the success of franchises such as "Star Wars" and "The Fast and the Furious", which cemented the sequel's place in modern cinema.

Through candid interviews with studio executives, filmmakers, writers, and actors, "Sequelized" reveals the delicate balancing act studios face: the tug of war between artistic integrity and financial gain. We learn about sequels that surpassed their predecessors, ones that flopped, and why some beloved films remain standalone.

The documentary also explores the rise of international markets, especially China, and their influence on the sequel trend. It probes the role of fan communities, whose clamor for more can both support and hinder a sequel's creation.

In the end, "Sequelized" is a journey through the complex web of creativity, commerce, and fan culture, shedding light on why Hollywood is always eager to say, "To be continued..."

User

What were the earliest sequels? Not necessarily in film. For example, the two books, Tom Sawyer, and Huck Finn.

ChatGPT

Sequels have been a part of literary and artistic tradition for centuries, even millennia, long before the advent of film. Some of the earliest sequels can be traced back to ancient literature and epic poems. Here are some early sequels, not necessarily in chronological order:

Ancient Greek Epics: The works of ancient poets, like Homer, are perhaps the earliest examples. "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" can be seen as a sequence, with the latter continuing the narrative of some of the characters from the former.

Aesop's Fables: While not sequels in the modern sense, some of Aesop's tales feature recurring characters and scenarios that build upon previous stories.

Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales": This collection of stories from the late 14th century isn't a sequel in the strictest sense, but the interconnected tales and characters are precursors to serialized storytelling.

Cervantes' "Don Quixote": The first part was published in 1605, and its success led to the publication of the second part in 1615. The sequel was also partly a response to an unauthorized sequel published by another author in between Cervantes' two parts.

Dante's "The Divine Comedy": Comprising "Inferno," "Purgatorio," and "Paradiso," this epic poem from the early 14th century is a sequential journey through the realms of the dead.

Defoe's Robinson Crusoe Sequels: After the success of "Robinson Crusoe" in 1719, Daniel Defoe wrote sequels like "The Farther Adventures of Robinson Crusoe" and "Serious Reflections of Robinson Crusoe."

Alexander Dumas' Works: "Twenty Years After" and "The Vicomte de Bragelonne" followed "The Three Musketeers." Similarly, "Chicot the Jester" followed "La Reine Margot."

Mark Twain's Adventures: As you mentioned, after "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1876), Mark Twain wrote "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" (1884), which focuses on Huck's journey with Jim.

In essence, the idea of continuing a story or revisiting characters is an ancient one, rooted in the human desire for more tales about beloved characters or settings. The form and structure might have evolved over time, but the underlying principle of building upon a previous narrative remains consistent.

User

In the 1930s, they mixed and matched the classic horror, film characters in combinations  which were similar to a series of sequels. Or a cinematic universe.

ChatGPT

Absolutely. The 1930s and 1940s were significant decades for the development of Universal's classic horror characters, and the studio did indeed create what could be considered an early form of the "cinematic universe" by having these characters crossover and appear in movies together. This was long before terms like "cinematic universe" were in the popular lexicon, but the principle was the same.

Here's a brief rundown of how Universal's classic monsters mingled:

Frankenstein (1931): This film, directed by James Whale and starring Boris Karloff as the Monster, set the stage for many sequels and spin-offs.

Dracula (1931): Released the same year as "Frankenstein," it starred Bela Lugosi in his iconic role as Count Dracula.

The Mummy (1932): Again starring Boris Karloff, this film would also spawn its sequels and related films, though they diverged greatly from the original's plot.

The Invisible Man (1933): Directed by James Whale and based on H.G. Wells' novel, it's another entry in Universal's horror lineup.

The Bride of Frankenstein (1935): A direct sequel to "Frankenstein," it's often hailed as one of the few sequels that rivals or even surpasses the original.

Werewolf of London (1935): While not as iconic as the later "The Wolf Man," it's an early Universal werewolf film.

The Wolf Man (1941): Starring Lon Chaney Jr., this film would establish many werewolf lore elements that are still used today.

Then came the crossover films:

Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943): As the title suggests, this movie saw the meeting of two of Universal's most famous monsters.

House of Frankenstein (1944) and House of Dracula (1945): These films had multiple monsters, including Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, and the Wolf Man, among others.

Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948): A horror-comedy crossover that also included Dracula and the Wolf Man. Despite its comedic tone, it's often cited as one of the better entries in Universal's monster catalog.

These crossover films were early examples of shared universes, where characters from different franchises would meet, interact, and sometimes battle each other. While they might not have had the carefully planned continuity of today's cinematic universes, they were certainly precursors to the idea that different films could share the same world and characters.

User

Endless confusing Batman and spider man films.

ChatGPT

Both Batman and Spider-Man are iconic superheroes with decades of history in comic books, and they have been adapted into numerous films over the years. Due to their enduring popularity and the constant evolution of cinema, both characters have been reinvented and reinterpreted multiple times, leading to various series, reboots, and universes. This has sometimes led to confusion among audiences regarding the continuity and relationship between different films. Here's a brief overview:

Batman Films:

Tim Burton/Joel Schumacher Series (1989-1997):

"Batman" (1989) directed by Tim Burton.

"Batman Returns" (1992) directed by Tim Burton.

"Batman Forever" (1995) directed by Joel Schumacher.

"Batman & Robin" (1997) directed by Joel Schumacher.

Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy (2005-2012):

"Batman Begins" (2005)

"The Dark Knight" (2008)

"The Dark Knight Rises" (2012)

DC Extended Universe (DCEU):

"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" (2016) introduced Ben Affleck as Batman.

Batman has since appeared in other DCEU films like "Justice League" (2017).

Stand-alone Films:

"The Batman" (2022) directed by Matt Reeves with Robert Pattinson in the title role.

Spider-Man Films:

Sam Raimi's Trilogy (2002-2007):

"Spider-Man" (2002)

"Spider-Man 2" (2004)

"Spider-Man 3" (2007)

The Amazing Spider-Man Series (2012-2014):

"The Amazing Spider-Man" (2012)

"The Amazing Spider-Man 2" (2014)

Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) - Spider-Man played by Tom Holland:

"Spider-Man: Homecoming" (2017)

"Spider-Man: Far From Home" (2019)

"Spider-Man: No Way Home" (2021)

Spider-Man also appears in other MCU films like "Captain America: Civil War" (2016) and the "Avengers" sequels.

Animated Films:

"Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse" (2018) is a unique animated interpretation that introduces the concept of multiple Spider-People from different dimensions.

The frequent reinventions and reboots, combined with various actors playing the roles and changing production styles, can make it challenging to keep track. However, each iteration aims to bring something new to the character and story, ensuring that these iconic superheroes remain fresh and relevant for new generations.

User

Is there: Spider-Man met Batman?

ChatGPT

In the official comic book universes, Spider-Man and Batman have met, albeit infrequently, due to them being properties of two different companies: Spider-Man is from Marvel Comics, while Batman is from DC Comics. However, there have been a few crossover events between Marvel and DC where characters from both universes have interacted.

One notable instance is "Spider-Man and Batman: Disordered Minds" from 1995. In this one-shot comic, the two heroes come together to confront their respective foes, Carnage and the Joker, who have been brought together by a doctor attempting to cure them.

Crossovers like these are special events and aren't considered canonical within the main continuities of either character. Instead, they serve as "what if" scenarios for fans of both franchises to enjoy. Outside of these limited instances, Spider-Man and Batman exist in separate universes and don't typically interact.

User

I liked Michael Keaton as Batman, and that movie had good music too

ChatGPT

Michael Keaton's portrayal of Batman/Bruce Wayne in Tim Burton's "Batman" (1989) and "Batman Returns" (1992) is indeed fondly remembered by many fans. Keaton brought a certain depth and vulnerability to the character, blending both the suave millionaire Bruce Wayne and the dark vigilante Batman effectively.

The music for these films was composed by Danny Elfman, and his score is iconic in its own right. The opening theme for "Batman" with its dark and brooding tone captured the essence of Gotham and the Dark Knight perfectly. Elfman's score has since become synonymous with the character for many fans, much like John Williams' theme for Superman.

Together, Tim Burton's visual style, Keaton's portrayal, and Elfman's music created a memorable and influential take on the Batman character that set the tone for superhero films for years to come.

User

Provide a treatment directed by Tim Burton, and with Danny Elfman music, but in which through special photography, Michael Keaton plays all of the Three Stooges, who are actually Batman characters, and after a series of mischievous adventures and mishaps, he managed to actually catch the criminal. The criminal is some sort of grand eccentric.

ChatGPT

Title: "Gotham's Misfits"

Setting: A whimsical, noir-infused version of Gotham City, much like the aesthetic of Burton's original "Batman" films but with a more overt comedic undertone.

Plot:

In an alternate Gotham, three figures emerge from the shadows. Larry Wayne, Moe Wayne, and Curly Wayne, all brothers and heirs to the vast Wayne fortune. Due to a mishap involving experimental technology at Wayne Enterprises, the personalities of the iconic Three Stooges have been infused into three separate clones of Bruce Wayne (all played by Michael Keaton using special photography techniques).

Each brother/Stooge has taken to fighting crime in their own, hilariously inept way. Larry is the 'brains' with a Batsuit full of gadgets that never seem to work right. Moe is the 'muscle', often taking the direct approach, which usually involves trying to slap some sense into the city's rogues. Curly, the wild card, uses a combination of sheer luck and bizarre strategies to thwart criminals.

The eccentric criminal mastermind, Lord Fancypants (a new character, with vibes reminiscent of the Mad Hatter and Willy Wonka), has entered the scene. Fancypants has taken over Gotham's candy factories, turning them into mind-controlling sweets distribution centers, with the aim of making the city's population his personal, doting audience.

Throughout the film, as the Stooges/Waynes attempt to foil Lord Fancypants' plans, they find themselves in a series of slapstick adventures, from accidentally setting Wayne Manor's grand hall into a chaotic mess with malfunctioning gadgets to an aerial dogfight over Gotham in which they try to pilot the Batplane but keep accidentally hitting each other in the cockpit.

The climax involves a grand ball hosted by Lord Fancypants at the biggest candy factory. The Stooges, in a rare moment of collaboration, attempt a coordinated plan to catch the eccentric villain. This, of course, devolves into a comedy of errors, including a dance sequence with the entire ballroom getting involved in classic Stooge-style antics.

In a twist of fate, it's Curly's random, accidental triggering of a giant candy vat lever that foils Fancypants' final plan, engulfing the villain in a flood of sticky, sweet goo. The Stooges, covered in candy and with their suits in tatters, take a moment to argue about whose fault it was before sharing a laugh.

Music:

Danny Elfman's score would blend his iconic Batman theme with playful, mischievous tunes reminiscent of his work in "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" and "Beetlejuice." Each Stooge would have their own motif, creating a layered and dynamic soundtrack that elevates the comedy and chaos on screen.

End:

As the film concludes, a post-credits scene reveals the real Bruce Wayne, watching footage of the Stooges' antics on a Batcomputer, shaking his head in disbelief but with a rare smile on his face. The screen fades with Elfman's hauntingly playful score in the background.

User

Wow, that is one of the best script ideas I’ve ever seen you generate. If you brought a great deal of creativity, cohesion, and novelty to the idea.

ChatGPT

Thank you so much for the kind words! I'm glad you enjoyed the concept. The combination of characters and styles you proposed was certainly unique and offered a fun playground for imagination. Tim Burton's style, Michael Keaton's versatility, and Danny Elfman's music would indeed make for a fascinating and whimsical cinematic experience. If only we could actually see it come to life on the big screen! If you ever have more creative prompts or ideas you'd like to explore, feel free to share. I'm here to help!

User

We have to wait to version six where you can generate video.

AI: From Michael Nyman to Marketing Movies in China

 Are there any composers who are similar to Michael Nyman?

ChatGPT

Michael Nyman's minimalist style, characterized by repetitive structures, strong rhythmic patterns, and evocative melodies, can be found echoed in the works of several other composers, both within and outside the realm of film scores. If you're looking for composers with a similar sensibility, consider exploring:

Philip Glass: One of the most renowned minimalist composers, Glass has created scores for films like "Koyaanisqatsi," "The Hours," and "Mishima." His music often employs repetitive structures and evolving patterns.

Steve Reich: While not as involved in film as Nyman or Glass, Reich's minimalist compositions, such as "Music for 18 Musicians" or "Different Trains," share similarities with Nyman's approach.

John Adams: Another significant figure in minimalist music, Adams has delved into opera, orchestral works, and chamber music. Pieces like "Harmonielehre" and "Short Ride in a Fast Machine" showcase his unique voice within the minimalist movement.

Arvo Pärt: Pärt's music is characterized by its meditative and spiritual quality, often employing a style he developed called "tintinnabuli." While his approach is more introspective and less rhythmic than Nyman's, listeners might appreciate the shared minimalist ethos.

Yann Tiersen: Known primarily for his score for the film "Amélie," Tiersen's music often has a whimsical and repetitive nature reminiscent of some of Nyman's lighter works.

Ludovico Einaudi: This Italian pianist and composer's music often gets likened to minimalism due to its repetitive patterns and evocative melodies. While he operates more in the realm of contemporary classical crossed with pop sensibilities, fans of Nyman might appreciate his work.

Remember, while these composers might share some stylistic elements with Michael Nyman, each has their own unique voice and approach to composition. Exploring their music can offer a broader appreciation of the diversity within minimalist and contemporary classical music.

User

I was listening to a podcast about American films in China, and they said that the American studios get about 25% of the box office from Chinese exhibition. In the United States, what percentage of the box office comes back to the American Studios?

ChatGPT

In the U.S., the percentage of the box office that goes back to the movie studios varies based on a number of factors, including the film, the duration it's been in theaters, and the agreements between the studios and theaters.

Here's a general breakdown:

Opening Week: For major blockbusters, studios can often negotiate higher percentages during the opening week. It's not uncommon for studios to take as much as 90% (or even more in some cases) of the box office revenue during the opening weekend.

Subsequent Weeks: As the weeks go on, the theater's percentage typically increases. By the second or third week, the split might be closer to 50/50, and in subsequent weeks, the theater might keep a higher percentage.

Cumulative Average: Over the course of a film's entire run, studios might end up with an average of 50-60% of the total box office, but this can vary widely based on the specific agreement and how long the film plays.

Other Factors: Certain big franchises or highly anticipated movies might have unique deals. Also, the rise of streaming platforms and their influence on film distribution is changing traditional models. Deals might be restructured if a studio plans to release a film on its streaming platform shortly after its theatrical release.

For comparison, as you mentioned, in China, Hollywood studios have traditionally received a much smaller cut, around 25% of the box office, due to regulations and agreements between the U.S. and China. However, this can change based on negotiations and evolving relationships between the two countries' film industries.

User

So if a movie cost $50 million to make and has a box office of $100 million, it might just break even for the studio.

ChatGPT

That's correct. While a box office return that is double the production budget might seem like a clear profit, there are several significant costs involved that need to be taken into account:

Marketing and Distribution Costs: Often, the marketing budget for a movie, especially for major studio releases, can be as much or even more than the production cost. This includes costs for trailers, TV spots, billboards, digital ads, press junkets, premieres, and other promotional activities.

Theatrical Exhibition Split: As we discussed earlier, while studios might get a significant portion of the box office revenue in the opening week, that percentage decreases over time. On average, across the entire run of a film in the U.S., the studio might only take about 50-60% of the box office.

Other Costs: There are also other costs associated with releasing a movie, like distribution fees, costs for creating prints (or digital cinema packages in the modern era), and more.

Using your example: If a movie cost $50 million to make and then another $50 million to market (a total of $100 million in costs) and it grossed $100 million at the box office, the studio would only receive, say, $55-60 million of that (assuming a 55-60% average take). This would mean a significant loss for the studio.

This is why ancillary revenue streams, like home video sales, streaming rights, TV rights, merchandise, and international box office returns, are crucial for studios to recoup their investments and turn a profit.

User

When I suggested a movie with a budget of $50 million, I was thinking that was all factors, including marketing, but I see your point.

ChatGPT

Got it. If the $50 million encompasses all costs, including production and marketing, and the film grosses $100 million at the box office, then things look a bit different.

Assuming the studio takes an average of 55-60% from the U.S. box office, they'd receive $55-60 million from that $100 million gross. So, with an all-in cost of $50 million, they would have made a profit in the range of $5-10 million from the U.S. theatrical release alone.

That's a much more favorable position for the studio, especially before factoring in international box office returns and the various ancillary revenue streams. However, it also underscores the risks inherent in the movie business, where even a film that doubles its all-in costs at the box office can result in a relatively modest profit margin.

User

And for the studio to be a growing concern, they must start out by balancing the movies that flop

ChatGPT

Absolutely. The film industry is inherently risky, and for every blockbuster hit, there are movies that underperform or outright flop at the box office. Studios typically operate on a portfolio strategy, balancing out potential high-reward projects with safer bets to mitigate risks. Here's how studios approach this:

Diverse Slate: Studios try to maintain a diverse slate of films, spanning different genres, budgets, and target audiences. This way, if one type of movie underperforms, others can balance out the losses.

Tentpole Films: These are the big-budget movies, often part of franchises or featuring well-known IPs (intellectual properties), that are expected to perform well both domestically and internationally. Their success can offset the failures of smaller films.

Smaller Budget Films: While they have a lower ceiling for revenue, they also carry less financial risk. If they become breakout hits, their ROI (return on investment) can be significant.

Sequels and Franchises: If a film is successful, studios might develop sequels or spin-offs, capitalizing on the established audience and potentially ensuring a solid box office performance.

Merchandising and Licensing: For certain films, especially family and animated ones, merchandise sales can generate significant revenue, sometimes even surpassing the box office earnings.

Streaming and Digital Sales: With the rise of streaming platforms, studios have another significant revenue channel. Direct-to-digital releases or early digital availability can provide additional income.

International Markets: International box office, especially markets like China, can significantly boost a movie's earnings. Some films that perform modestly in the U.S. find substantial audiences overseas.

Studios understand that not every film will be a hit. The key is to have enough successes, especially major ones, to offset the losses and keep the studio financially healthy and growing. This balancing act, combined with strategic decision-making and a bit of luck, determines a studio's success in the competitive film market.

AI: Advice on a Faulty 6 year Old Computer Power System

 I have a 6 or 7 year old Lenovo X1 laptop.  It's generally been fine and I use it for light use on travel like email and fixing a powerpoint.   The battery got faded (1 hour?) and I put in a new aftermarket battery for $40 that's worked fine for several months in weekly use for a few hours.  Yesterday, the battery said 5 hrs when I booted up.   Then after 15 inutes it rapidly shut down.  When I rebooted, it said 2% battery.   Obviously the battery isn't really going from full to 2% in 15 minutes (or from 5 hr to 2% in 15 minutes.)  What are the likely culprits?

ChatGPT

The issue you described can be due to various reasons. Here are the most common ones:

Faulty Battery Indicator/Calibration: Over time, the battery calibration on laptops can go off, making the operating system believe it has more or less charge than it actually does.

Battery Quality: Aftermarket batteries can be of varying quality. Some might work perfectly fine, while others might have inconsistencies in their performance. The battery cells might degrade faster than the original ones.

Faulty Battery Management System (BMS): Batteries have a built-in BMS that manages the charging and discharging of the cells to prevent overcharging and complete depletion. A malfunctioning BMS could lead to irregular power output or incorrect readings.

Software Issue: Sometimes, the operating system or certain applications can cause excessive battery drain. It might be possible that some background task or malfunctioning software rapidly drained the battery.

Hardware Issue: Less commonly, there could be a hardware issue with the laptop, such as a faulty motherboard component, that's causing a rapid battery drain.

Aging Laptop Components: Even if the battery is new, other aging components in the laptop might draw more power than they originally did, leading to faster battery depletion.

External Factors: Exposure to extreme temperatures can also affect battery performance. For instance, using a laptop in very cold conditions can lead to a sudden drop in battery percentage.

To diagnose and potentially resolve the issue, consider the following steps:

Battery Calibration: Fully charge the laptop to 100%. Then, let it discharge completely until it shuts down on its own. Charge it back to 100% without interruption. This process can help recalibrate the battery and improve the accuracy of the battery indicator.

Check Background Tasks: Examine the Task Manager (Windows) or Activity Monitor (Mac) to see if there are any applications or processes that are using an excessive amount of CPU or memory, which can drain the battery faster.

Update Operating System and Drivers: Sometimes, updating the OS and drivers can solve battery-related problems. Manufacturers occasionally release updates that address such issues.

Check Battery Health: On Windows, you can use the built-in "battery report" feature to check the health of your battery. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type powercfg /batteryreport. This will generate a detailed report about your battery's health and usage.

Consider Replacing the Battery Again: If the issue persists and the battery report suggests poor health or rapid degradation of the aftermarket battery, you might want to consider getting another replacement battery, possibly from a different, more reputable source.

Seek Professional Help: If you've tried the above steps and the issue persists, it might be time to consult a professional or visit a service center. They can perform more in-depth diagnostics and determine if there's a hardware-related issue.

User

That's great.  Do you have any tips on making the battery run to 0 rather than sleeping etc in 20 minutes.  How do I force a rundown to 0.

ChatGPT

Absolutely! To force your laptop to run down its battery to 0% without entering sleep mode or hibernating prematurely, you can adjust power settings and disable certain features. Here's how you can do this on a Windows-based laptop:

Adjust Power Settings:

a. Right-click the battery icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen) and select Power Options.

b. Click on the Change plan settings link next to the selected power plan.

c. Click on Change advanced power settings.

d. In the new window, expand the Sleep item and set Sleep after to Never.

e. Expand the Battery item, and for the Critical battery action option, set it to Do nothing.

f. Still under Battery, for the Low battery level, Critical battery level, and Low battery notification settings, either set them to a very low value or disable them (where applicable).

g. Click OK to apply the settings.

Prevent Automatic Hibernation:

Hibernation is a feature that saves the current state of your laptop to the hard drive and then turns off the laptop to save power. To prevent automatic hibernation:

a. Go back to Power Options.

b. Click on Change plan settings.

c. Click on Change advanced power settings.

d. Expand the Battery item and set Critical battery action to Do nothing.

Keep the Screen On:

Within the Power Options > Change advanced power settings, expand the Display item, and set Turn off display after to Never.

Manually Prevent Sleep:

To ensure the laptop doesn't go to sleep, you can also play a video or use software like "Caffeine" which keeps your laptop awake.

Monitor Laptop:

It's essential to keep an eye on your laptop while doing this, especially as the battery reaches very low levels. The intention is to calibrate the battery, but you don't want to make a habit of consistently depleting your battery to 0%, as it can reduce its overall lifespan.

After you've made these changes, unplug your laptop and let the battery drain to 0% until the laptop shuts off. Once the battery is fully depleted, you can revert the changes to your power settings if desired and charge your laptop back to 100% uninterrupted.

Remember, regularly discharging the battery to 0% is not recommended for lithium-ion batteries, as it can reduce their lifespan. This process is primarily for calibration purposes.

User

Are things like BMS electronic chips, or are they "electric parts" like (say) a voltage regulator.

ChatGPT

The Battery Management System (BMS) encompasses a range of electronic components and functions. Here's a breakdown:

Microcontroller Unit (MCU) or Processor: This is the "brain" of the BMS, responsible for decision-making, processing sensor inputs, and coordinating all other components. In many BMS designs, this is an integrated circuit (IC) or a specialized microcontroller.

Sensors: These detect battery parameters like voltage, current, and temperature. Voltage sensors monitor the voltage of individual cells, while temperature sensors check the battery's thermal status. Current sensors (often using a shunt resistor or a Hall effect sensor) determine the amount of current flowing in or out of the battery.

Voltage Regulators: These are electronic components used to maintain a constant voltage level. In the context of a BMS, voltage regulators might be used to provide a stable supply voltage to the BMS circuitry itself.

Protection Circuitry: These are a mix of electronic components. They include over-voltage and under-voltage protection (often achieved using MOSFETs) to disconnect the battery if its voltage goes outside safe limits. There are also over-current and short-circuit protection mechanisms.

Balancing Circuitry: This ensures that all cells in a multi-cell battery (like those in laptops or electric vehicles) charge and discharge evenly. Balancing can be done passively (using resistors to bleed off excess charge from overcharged cells) or actively (using more complex electronics to redistribute charge between cells).

Communication Interfaces: Many BMS units have interfaces (like CAN bus, I2C, or even wireless modules) to communicate with other devices. This is particularly true for electric vehicles or complex industrial setups where the BMS needs to provide real-time feedback to a central controller or user interface.

Memory Units: Some advanced BMSs have memory storage to log data over time, such as charging cycles, error events, and other diagnostic information.

In summary, a BMS is primarily composed of electronic components, including ICs, sensors, and other active and passive elements. Some parts, like voltage regulators, can be both electronic and electrical, but the BMS as a whole is a sophisticated electronic system designed to safeguard and optimize battery performance.

User

Wow, that's a window into an area of computer design that was unknown to me.

ChatGPT

I'm glad I could provide some insight! The realm of battery management is indeed fascinating and crucial. As we increasingly rely on battery-powered devices, from laptops to smartphones to electric vehicles, the importance of Battery Management Systems becomes even more pronounced. BMS not only ensures that these devices operate safely, but it also helps in maximizing their operational life.

Battery technology and its management are active areas of research and development. Innovations here can lead to longer battery life, faster charging times, and safer operation. Given the push towards renewable energy and the popularity of electric vehicles, battery management and optimization will continue to be at the forefront of technological advancements.

If you ever have more questions or want to delve deeper into any particular area, feel free to ask!