Keene has quickly become one of my new favorite writers. For horror, the trick is to keep it new, intersting, paced well, and for god'd sake make me care about the characters. That's why I never liked the Stephen King I have read. Most were worthless characters.
Keene puts basic innocence into bad situations and allows his characters to develop along the lines of survival. What would you do?
Urban Gothic starts with some surburban white kids that are lost in inner city Philadelphia. prejudicial misunderstandings amp the tension, and soon the surburban teens are running for an "abandoned" house in the neighborhood. Wrong house.
Keene explains through characters the presence of the house is a mystery. IT has always been a part of the neighborhood, is supposedly haunted, and the locals just stay away from it. Anyone who has even gone in there has never returned.
Whether intenional or not, not gives us a Sociology lesson. Societies that are "comfortable" with their surroundings never question the unexplained, or pay no attention to them. An older African-American couple remember when the the neighborhood was friendly and folks helped one another. Somewere along the way, the inhabitants lost their focus and crime, prostitution, and drugs took over. When I really think about this book, it is more than just another horror story- it's about taking back your neighborhood and doing what's right.
Lost inside the house, the teens are hunted by deformed cannibalistic mutants. Keene's descriptions of each character's perceptions keep the reader engrossed in the very graphic fates of the friends. This book is not for the squeemish!
Members of the neighborhood agree to find out what is happening, and the story goes from bad to worse.
This was another of Keene's works that was irresistable and difficult to put down. The pace was excellent, leaving each chapter with concern and an anxious spirit for the characters. Maybe I'm a sap, but given the teen's failings, after all of he brutality they witnessed, I wanted as many of them to survive as possible.
The ending was a gutwrenching ride of uncertainty.
This book gave me the same feelings I get when I watch "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre". It has many similar elements. Both have such caracatures of evil that you almost laugh, roll your eyes, etc. until you see, hear, and touch the violence. It's disturbing, but each time a character escapes a particularly tight grip you cheer and breathe a sigh of relief.
Maybe it's not for everyone, but true horror fans will appreciate the extent of the chase, the mystery, and the *once again* very graphic scenery.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Monday, May 10, 2010
Book- The Forest of Hands and Teeth
Hopefully, zombie is the next vampire. And if all of the young adult books on zombies are as good as this one, then it's going to be a great ride.
Carrie Ryan has taken a theme and a story that is well known and expanded it to a new level.
I've always loved a good zombie movie, and in the past few years I've looked everywhere for a good zombie apocalypse novel. Many in the genre follow similar patterns, not to say they aren't good- Zombie novels are ALWAYS good. IF you are a fan, you know what to expect. The infection, plague, government escaped virus, mysterious meteor, or the portal to another dimension opens and brings the dead to life. They eat the living. (Please, don't say they eat brains- that occurs in only one decent series of movies. Real zombies eat everything!) We meet our min characters, they meet cannon fodder that get eaten along the way and somehow the whole group tries to survive in an undead world.
Ryan has expanded on the best parts of the zombie survivor theme. We are several decades beyond "the Return" and society has tried to develop into some normalcy. Our young Heroine, Mary lives in a true "gated community" off of a large forest filled with the "Unconsecrated"- the zombies. Life has developed around "the scripture" and young people are devoted to procreating for the cotinuance of the human species. Matches are made based on necessity, not love. Mary is the rebel and toils over her decisions- hoping for love, and the possibility of an outside world away from the unconsecrated.
As will happen in an undead world- the village is attacked and a small party of teens escape through a labyrinth of fences and gates throughout the forest, constantly being stalked by zombies.
I will be honest- as I read the first half of this book, I grew tired of the angsty young heroine wishing hoping and dreaming that things were different. I understand the connections bein made, but it became tiresome at times. The great thing I found throughout the book was just as I was about to put the book down because of the aforementioned reasons, something exciting would happen and I would stick with th book for several more chapters, I would grow tired, almost put the book down, and another exciting part would appear. Ryan seemed to have a good grasp of when and where to put the tension, and possible showed me the slogging existence of the characters contrasted with their flights from danger.
Looking at the theme and story, I was saddened what I took from the book. How far are we willing to go...and lose, to hold on to our dreams? I ended up being concerned and moved by the whole part of young folk, and generally concerned for their safety.
To me, this is a great addition to all of the other great zombie literature out there, and it still asks the same questions- how do we survive, can we have a normal life again, and is their security anywhere.
A great book, even with he minor failings I mentioned. I'm glad I stuck with it and saw it through to the end.
Carrie Ryan has taken a theme and a story that is well known and expanded it to a new level.
I've always loved a good zombie movie, and in the past few years I've looked everywhere for a good zombie apocalypse novel. Many in the genre follow similar patterns, not to say they aren't good- Zombie novels are ALWAYS good. IF you are a fan, you know what to expect. The infection, plague, government escaped virus, mysterious meteor, or the portal to another dimension opens and brings the dead to life. They eat the living. (Please, don't say they eat brains- that occurs in only one decent series of movies. Real zombies eat everything!) We meet our min characters, they meet cannon fodder that get eaten along the way and somehow the whole group tries to survive in an undead world.
Ryan has expanded on the best parts of the zombie survivor theme. We are several decades beyond "the Return" and society has tried to develop into some normalcy. Our young Heroine, Mary lives in a true "gated community" off of a large forest filled with the "Unconsecrated"- the zombies. Life has developed around "the scripture" and young people are devoted to procreating for the cotinuance of the human species. Matches are made based on necessity, not love. Mary is the rebel and toils over her decisions- hoping for love, and the possibility of an outside world away from the unconsecrated.
As will happen in an undead world- the village is attacked and a small party of teens escape through a labyrinth of fences and gates throughout the forest, constantly being stalked by zombies.
I will be honest- as I read the first half of this book, I grew tired of the angsty young heroine wishing hoping and dreaming that things were different. I understand the connections bein made, but it became tiresome at times. The great thing I found throughout the book was just as I was about to put the book down because of the aforementioned reasons, something exciting would happen and I would stick with th book for several more chapters, I would grow tired, almost put the book down, and another exciting part would appear. Ryan seemed to have a good grasp of when and where to put the tension, and possible showed me the slogging existence of the characters contrasted with their flights from danger.
Looking at the theme and story, I was saddened what I took from the book. How far are we willing to go...and lose, to hold on to our dreams? I ended up being concerned and moved by the whole part of young folk, and generally concerned for their safety.
To me, this is a great addition to all of the other great zombie literature out there, and it still asks the same questions- how do we survive, can we have a normal life again, and is their security anywhere.
A great book, even with he minor failings I mentioned. I'm glad I stuck with it and saw it through to the end.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Movie- the Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus
I have to preface this review with a warning....I am very partial to Terry Gilliam films. The man has not made a bad film. Watching the documentary "Lost in La Manch" about his ill-fated quest to bring to the screen the story of Don Quixote and you will see the trouble, the dedication, and hard work that a true director brings to film.
"Parnassus" has the Gilliam touch at its best. Visually appealing and beyond surreal-the landscapes the characters explore ask for the audience to wonder about the psychological make up of even minor characters.
I suggest watching the introduction by Gilliam to fully understand what he wanted from the film. Fans of his previous films will understand the subtle and "not so subtle" touches and revisiting of Gilliam's filmograpahy.
The story is not completely original. The theme of the deal with the devil has been done in literature and film several times. The competition between Parnassus and the Devil borders on "a friendly wager" as the Devil seems at times to enjoy the company of the good Dr. and I think secretly would like to see him win the wager. Of course we want Parnassus to win, but the casting of Tom Waites as the Devil is simply cunning, suave, and so brilliant that I found myself sucked into his charm. I'd certainly lose my soul.
Christopher Plummer plays Parnassus. My first experience with Plummer was in the movie "Waterloo", with him playing Lord Wellington. A great portrayal, by the way. Since then, I have always kept my ear out for movies where he stars; he never disappoints. His portrayal of Dr. Parnassus, the 1000 year old man who has wagered souls against the devil for the sake of his 16 year old daughter, pits imagination against realism- a common Gilliam theme. Plummer is a vehicle to the rest of the characters. An experienced actor with a story that only gives us just enough information to keep the story moving.
You need to listen and watch closely to the story. I found some of it hard to follow at times. But there was certainly enough on the screen to keep me interested.
Sadly, this was Heath Ledger's last movie, and I wondered how Gilliam could continue without Ledger's performance. The wonderful thing about Gilliam's movies is that most anything can be explained by the magical and fantastic nature of the story. I liked how the addition of Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell blended into the story and even they seem surprised by their transformation; an amusing and fun aspect of the movie that I would like a second look at to ponder more.
Ledger's character is a mystery to the other's, found hanging underneath a bridge and left for dead, he soon is welcomed to the traveling Imaginarium troupe and works to bring the show into the modern era.
Rich characters, rich costuming, and a great use of imagination; the driving theme of the movie. A little slow on the story, but a nice tribute and ending to Ledger's excellent career.
Heath, we'll miss you
"Parnassus" has the Gilliam touch at its best. Visually appealing and beyond surreal-the landscapes the characters explore ask for the audience to wonder about the psychological make up of even minor characters.
I suggest watching the introduction by Gilliam to fully understand what he wanted from the film. Fans of his previous films will understand the subtle and "not so subtle" touches and revisiting of Gilliam's filmograpahy.
The story is not completely original. The theme of the deal with the devil has been done in literature and film several times. The competition between Parnassus and the Devil borders on "a friendly wager" as the Devil seems at times to enjoy the company of the good Dr. and I think secretly would like to see him win the wager. Of course we want Parnassus to win, but the casting of Tom Waites as the Devil is simply cunning, suave, and so brilliant that I found myself sucked into his charm. I'd certainly lose my soul.
Christopher Plummer plays Parnassus. My first experience with Plummer was in the movie "Waterloo", with him playing Lord Wellington. A great portrayal, by the way. Since then, I have always kept my ear out for movies where he stars; he never disappoints. His portrayal of Dr. Parnassus, the 1000 year old man who has wagered souls against the devil for the sake of his 16 year old daughter, pits imagination against realism- a common Gilliam theme. Plummer is a vehicle to the rest of the characters. An experienced actor with a story that only gives us just enough information to keep the story moving.
You need to listen and watch closely to the story. I found some of it hard to follow at times. But there was certainly enough on the screen to keep me interested.
Sadly, this was Heath Ledger's last movie, and I wondered how Gilliam could continue without Ledger's performance. The wonderful thing about Gilliam's movies is that most anything can be explained by the magical and fantastic nature of the story. I liked how the addition of Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell blended into the story and even they seem surprised by their transformation; an amusing and fun aspect of the movie that I would like a second look at to ponder more.
Ledger's character is a mystery to the other's, found hanging underneath a bridge and left for dead, he soon is welcomed to the traveling Imaginarium troupe and works to bring the show into the modern era.
Rich characters, rich costuming, and a great use of imagination; the driving theme of the movie. A little slow on the story, but a nice tribute and ending to Ledger's excellent career.
Heath, we'll miss you
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Book- Abraham Lincoln- Vampire Hunter
I remember seeing the cover of this book a month or so ago coming through the library. A somewhat silent photograph of Lincoln passed my eyes, but there was something strange about it. I took a second glance. Reading the cover carefully, I had to laugh. Seth Grahame-Smith (author of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies- another book I need to read) has created a wonderfully readable, "fantastic" version of Lincoln's life.
Suppose America had been overrun with vampires- and suppose said vampires work behind the scenes of American history, including a secret battle over slavery- not just Southern slavery that culminated in the American Civil War, but the slavery of mankind by vampires. And then suppose that America's greatest president had personal dealings with these creatures of the night throughout his life, vowing to destroy all vampires on American soil.
Grahame-Smith's book blends historic truth, fable and fantasy in a fast paced story to save mankind's soul from dark tyranny.
Lincoln's life is described through a nararrator who has obtained, somewhat mysteriously, certain manuscripts and diaries of Lincoln's valiant conquests. Axes fly and heads are decapitated as Abraham hunts vampires supporting the spread of slavery and using humans as cattle.
Though somewhat slow in the beginning, the story quickens early enough to keep the reader engrossed in Abe's next conquest. History enthusiasts will find humor in which historical figures Grahame-Smith claims are vampires, vampire hunters, and collaborators to the vampires.
Have a fun time reading this book, and admire the "doctored" photography throughout. Rumor has it that Hollywood is already looking into a film version with the likes of Tim Burton asking for the script. Only Tim could bring this book to the screen. My guess- Johnny Depp as Henry.
Suppose America had been overrun with vampires- and suppose said vampires work behind the scenes of American history, including a secret battle over slavery- not just Southern slavery that culminated in the American Civil War, but the slavery of mankind by vampires. And then suppose that America's greatest president had personal dealings with these creatures of the night throughout his life, vowing to destroy all vampires on American soil.
Grahame-Smith's book blends historic truth, fable and fantasy in a fast paced story to save mankind's soul from dark tyranny.
Lincoln's life is described through a nararrator who has obtained, somewhat mysteriously, certain manuscripts and diaries of Lincoln's valiant conquests. Axes fly and heads are decapitated as Abraham hunts vampires supporting the spread of slavery and using humans as cattle.
Though somewhat slow in the beginning, the story quickens early enough to keep the reader engrossed in Abe's next conquest. History enthusiasts will find humor in which historical figures Grahame-Smith claims are vampires, vampire hunters, and collaborators to the vampires.
Have a fun time reading this book, and admire the "doctored" photography throughout. Rumor has it that Hollywood is already looking into a film version with the likes of Tim Burton asking for the script. Only Tim could bring this book to the screen. My guess- Johnny Depp as Henry.
Movie- Clash of the Titans (2010)
I waffled on seeing this movie a lot. When i first heard they were remaking this classi from my childhood I was skeptical. I remembered loving the movie, the toys and the comic book I had back then. How could they improve on the camp and the creatures?
Well, I wo't go so far as to say that they "improved" the movie, but it was entertaining. I read a few reviews of the movie before I went, trying to decide if I should spend the $8.50 matinee price. I found most reviews of this movie short-sighted and very general. Most reviewers just wanted to hate this movie from the beginning and gave no time or effort into their watching or reviewing.
Yeah, there were problems....script problems, some CGI problems, and they altered the story of the original a bit. But it was all good fun. Check your brain at the door and don't try to find a really concrete story here- although I will say the story made more sense this time around than it did in the original.
Here's my breakdown of the movie:
Monsters/Creatures- This is not Ray Harryhausen- for those that don't know, he did the stop- motion animation in the original Clash, some Sinbad (no, not that lame comedian) movies, and Jason and the Argonauts, etc. There was always something otherworldly about this type of animation and it worked well in these movies. The original Medusa and Kraken were wonderful effects, if a little bit cheesy- they still scared me as a kid.
The CGI in the updated version is decent for the giant scorpions, but the Kraken and Medusa looked like video games. Medusa was too smooth and you really didn't get a decent look at her (no pun intended). The Kraken was in the movie for such a short time, and when he did arrive he looked like the creature from Cloverfield. I won't give it away, but the new take on Pegasus, I liked- many purists will probably hate it.
Of course the monsters are what makes an adventure movie like this. Though fun, they failed a bit.
Gods- Many reviews hated the acting. I found it worthy of such a movie. A bit dramatic, but so was Lawrence Olivier in the first. Neeson plays a standable Zeus, and Fiennes did a great job as the jealous Hades. The CGI for Hades was particularly good- at times wrapped in black cinders and mist, at other times the mist forms evil wings. You have to give the drama a chance- it's a Greek story. The worst part of the Gods were the anachronistic looking silver armor that all of them wore while on Olympus. It didn't fit, and conjured images from Excalibur- a much more fitting movie for such armor. I found it amusing that all the gods were represented, but almost none were introduced as in the original movie.
The story was simplfied and for those familiar with the original you knew the journey well enough to move along fast enough through certain holes in the story. An annoying reference to something in the orignal movie was quickly dismissed with a soldier telling Perseus to "leave it". Little jokes like this, while few, added nothing to the story.
So, was it worth it? yes. I've seen the original several times and it's one of those films that I always have to stop and watch when it shows up on TV. Considering the monsters in this version were bigger and badder, I can forgive the story and shiny armor. When this movie arrives on DVD I plan on buying both versions and having fun with some pseudo-greek mythology.
Well, I wo't go so far as to say that they "improved" the movie, but it was entertaining. I read a few reviews of the movie before I went, trying to decide if I should spend the $8.50 matinee price. I found most reviews of this movie short-sighted and very general. Most reviewers just wanted to hate this movie from the beginning and gave no time or effort into their watching or reviewing.
Yeah, there were problems....script problems, some CGI problems, and they altered the story of the original a bit. But it was all good fun. Check your brain at the door and don't try to find a really concrete story here- although I will say the story made more sense this time around than it did in the original.
Here's my breakdown of the movie:
Monsters/Creatures- This is not Ray Harryhausen- for those that don't know, he did the stop- motion animation in the original Clash, some Sinbad (no, not that lame comedian) movies, and Jason and the Argonauts, etc. There was always something otherworldly about this type of animation and it worked well in these movies. The original Medusa and Kraken were wonderful effects, if a little bit cheesy- they still scared me as a kid.
The CGI in the updated version is decent for the giant scorpions, but the Kraken and Medusa looked like video games. Medusa was too smooth and you really didn't get a decent look at her (no pun intended). The Kraken was in the movie for such a short time, and when he did arrive he looked like the creature from Cloverfield. I won't give it away, but the new take on Pegasus, I liked- many purists will probably hate it.
Of course the monsters are what makes an adventure movie like this. Though fun, they failed a bit.
Gods- Many reviews hated the acting. I found it worthy of such a movie. A bit dramatic, but so was Lawrence Olivier in the first. Neeson plays a standable Zeus, and Fiennes did a great job as the jealous Hades. The CGI for Hades was particularly good- at times wrapped in black cinders and mist, at other times the mist forms evil wings. You have to give the drama a chance- it's a Greek story. The worst part of the Gods were the anachronistic looking silver armor that all of them wore while on Olympus. It didn't fit, and conjured images from Excalibur- a much more fitting movie for such armor. I found it amusing that all the gods were represented, but almost none were introduced as in the original movie.
The story was simplfied and for those familiar with the original you knew the journey well enough to move along fast enough through certain holes in the story. An annoying reference to something in the orignal movie was quickly dismissed with a soldier telling Perseus to "leave it". Little jokes like this, while few, added nothing to the story.
So, was it worth it? yes. I've seen the original several times and it's one of those films that I always have to stop and watch when it shows up on TV. Considering the monsters in this version were bigger and badder, I can forgive the story and shiny armor. When this movie arrives on DVD I plan on buying both versions and having fun with some pseudo-greek mythology.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Movie - Dead Snow
"A ski vacation turns horrific for a group of medical students, as they find themselves confronted by an unimaginable menace: Nazi zombies." (IMDB)
This is a much awaited Norwegian zombie flick. I've been watching for this one for several months and it has finally got around to being out on DVD. The premise is very basic as the description aboves states. So please, don't overthink this movie.
The greatness in this film comes from several factors.
1) How much better can it get than Nazi Zombies! But Nazi zombies are not a new concept. I wanted to love the 1977 movie "Shock Waves" with Peter Cushing, but these Nazi Zombies just fell short- they were not scary, not menacing, and for some bizarre reason only strangled their victms- they were also pretty slow. Zombie popularity was probably just starting and it would be the next year that George Romero gave us his classic "Dawn of the Dead". Consequently, "Shock Waves" was left in cult favorites land (and not even as a real favorite)
The Nazi zombies in Dead Snow snarl like cougars, look like they've been buried in snow for decades (frostbitten with gray skin receeding leaving lips in a constant sneer), drip black ooze from their lips, and are a relentless group chasing victims rather quickly through the Norwegian forrests. These zombies are tough to put down and to get away from.
2) The film switches nicely between the absurd humor of survivors fighting off these creatures , and real suspense and horror as the group of stranded college students realize just what is going on. Nothing like being trapped in a cabin in the middle of nowhere surrounded by zombies to bring reality to the sitution. It also switches between the usual sterotypical horror character who we all scream at with "No, don't do that- that's just stupid- I would never do that" and characters you can somewhat cheer for as they slice and dice the nazis with whatever implements they can find.
3)The FX- by my standards- I thought they were very nicely done. There are some obvious fake images, but all in all the realism and the horror are there. Don't watch this movie if you don't like body parts flying- yeah it's a little over the top, but some of it is pretty gruesome too.
4)Nice homage to prior movies- Fans of Sam Raimi and the Evil Dead movies will recognize the styling and film sequences- many scenes were ripped almost straight from Raimi's movies- some characteriztion and diretion as well. This I found "touching". Okay, that's a strange word to use about a horror movie, but this crew must have been big fans, and I count it as respect and an homage to Raimi's cult classic films.
5) For the more horror dedicated fans-- this movie had some of the most interesting and original death/gore scenes. Just when you think you might have seen it all, Dead Snow does not disappoint. A head split apart and the brain falling out is just the start. These guys loved intestines as well and used them in some intersting ways. Check out the trailer for a couple scenes and you'll get the idea.
I wasn't sure how much I liked this film until I wrote this review. A cult classic from the start- fun characters, story and gore. A zombie lovers movie. Do I want to add this to my collection of zombie flicks- you bet your swinging intestines I do!
This is a much awaited Norwegian zombie flick. I've been watching for this one for several months and it has finally got around to being out on DVD. The premise is very basic as the description aboves states. So please, don't overthink this movie.
The greatness in this film comes from several factors.
1) How much better can it get than Nazi Zombies! But Nazi zombies are not a new concept. I wanted to love the 1977 movie "Shock Waves" with Peter Cushing, but these Nazi Zombies just fell short- they were not scary, not menacing, and for some bizarre reason only strangled their victms- they were also pretty slow. Zombie popularity was probably just starting and it would be the next year that George Romero gave us his classic "Dawn of the Dead". Consequently, "Shock Waves" was left in cult favorites land (and not even as a real favorite)
The Nazi zombies in Dead Snow snarl like cougars, look like they've been buried in snow for decades (frostbitten with gray skin receeding leaving lips in a constant sneer), drip black ooze from their lips, and are a relentless group chasing victims rather quickly through the Norwegian forrests. These zombies are tough to put down and to get away from.
2) The film switches nicely between the absurd humor of survivors fighting off these creatures , and real suspense and horror as the group of stranded college students realize just what is going on. Nothing like being trapped in a cabin in the middle of nowhere surrounded by zombies to bring reality to the sitution. It also switches between the usual sterotypical horror character who we all scream at with "No, don't do that- that's just stupid- I would never do that" and characters you can somewhat cheer for as they slice and dice the nazis with whatever implements they can find.
3)The FX- by my standards- I thought they were very nicely done. There are some obvious fake images, but all in all the realism and the horror are there. Don't watch this movie if you don't like body parts flying- yeah it's a little over the top, but some of it is pretty gruesome too.
4)Nice homage to prior movies- Fans of Sam Raimi and the Evil Dead movies will recognize the styling and film sequences- many scenes were ripped almost straight from Raimi's movies- some characteriztion and diretion as well. This I found "touching". Okay, that's a strange word to use about a horror movie, but this crew must have been big fans, and I count it as respect and an homage to Raimi's cult classic films.
5) For the more horror dedicated fans-- this movie had some of the most interesting and original death/gore scenes. Just when you think you might have seen it all, Dead Snow does not disappoint. A head split apart and the brain falling out is just the start. These guys loved intestines as well and used them in some intersting ways. Check out the trailer for a couple scenes and you'll get the idea.
I wasn't sure how much I liked this film until I wrote this review. A cult classic from the start- fun characters, story and gore. A zombie lovers movie. Do I want to add this to my collection of zombie flicks- you bet your swinging intestines I do!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Books- The Thin Executioner Part II
My goal is to finish this book this weekend. It slowed in the middle with a lot of "hobbit-type" traveling (for fans of Tolkien. Once I got past the middle of the book, it started to get more interesting. The main characters Jebel, the boy, and his slave, Tel Hesani have been spearated, rejoined, and now with about a quarter of the book to go are separated again. There are some great passages I'll have to post. Tel is the voice of reason, compassion, and maturity. Jebel is growing through the book from his impulsive and spoiled temperment to more maturity as the two are tested by some pretty extreme situations.
This mildly fantastic world has so many cultures to study and understand, so far Shan has done an excellent job of walking us through little villages and meeting with strange,unusual peoples, all with different religions, that it seems like a book of anthropology mnore than a novel.
Major focus in the story has been an acceptance of differences and questioning beliefs. Are we loyal to our beliefs because of where we were born? or who we really are?
The lessons are nothing new, but for a Young Adult novel, these messages at the correct time in a teen's life might just chnage their thinking for the better.
An interesting story, a bit of adventure, an homage to Mark Twain, and a few lessons to learn create a somewhat quick paced and fun read.
Darren Shan is probably better known for his "Cirque Du Freak" and "Demonata" series for Young Adults So, he is not a stranger to unveiling a dark fantastic world. Maybe I'll try those series next.
This mildly fantastic world has so many cultures to study and understand, so far Shan has done an excellent job of walking us through little villages and meeting with strange,unusual peoples, all with different religions, that it seems like a book of anthropology mnore than a novel.
Major focus in the story has been an acceptance of differences and questioning beliefs. Are we loyal to our beliefs because of where we were born? or who we really are?
The lessons are nothing new, but for a Young Adult novel, these messages at the correct time in a teen's life might just chnage their thinking for the better.
An interesting story, a bit of adventure, an homage to Mark Twain, and a few lessons to learn create a somewhat quick paced and fun read.
Darren Shan is probably better known for his "Cirque Du Freak" and "Demonata" series for Young Adults So, he is not a stranger to unveiling a dark fantastic world. Maybe I'll try those series next.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Movie- 2012
Emmerich, Emmerich, Emmerich...Why do I know that name?? The director of 2012 was Emmerich. Watching an innocent trailer of the film, even with the sound off, you can figure it out. This is the guy who's obsessed with destroying the world over and over in his movies...the guy who gave us a prehistory less interesting than reading a human evolution text book.....the guy who gave us an Alien invasion that really didn't happen...and tried his hand at real history...with Mel Gibson (who claimed one time on a morning talk show that if you made a movie historically accurate, that would be the most boring two hours ever)
So, what can I expect from 2012?
The same as usual.
Emmerich falls into the Hollywood formula, like Cameron is doing lately. You know...big budgets, bad acting, bad story, bad script, all the money going to computerized special effects and lots of 'splosions. Look at Emmerich's Direction track record: Independence Day, 10000 BC, Day after Tomorrow, the Patriot, Godzilla, Stargate. PLEASE STOP THIS MAN AND STOP ME FROM WATCHING ANYMORE OF HIS MOVIES!!!!
Call it being a glutton for punishment- the effects are stunning. A giant wave crashing over the Himalayas is something I've never seen before- so, there was an interest in seeing this film to see if anything else was new. There was...but it wasn't too pleasant. How many times can you have a vehicle ramp off of a jutting piece of earth? Okay, so it was a limo in the first case, and an RV in the second. But how many times can you have a plane fly through crumbling buildings?
I think the originality stopped at the trailer.
Honestly, I did not expect much, but I did expect to be somewhat amused by the film. This one was drawing out so much of the story, that I found myself making the snarky sarcastic comments and predicting who was going to die soon- that was way easier than I thought. Subtlety is not Emmerich's strong point.
The acting? Well, I want to say "What acting?" But at least John Cusak can always be relied upon. The saddest thing I thought was, "How bad have things got in Hollywood that John Cusak- a decent actor in my opinion- ended up in this movie?" Amanda Peet I can leave behind. Oliver Platt always plays a good part. Unfortunately, the script only allowed for cartoon versions of people. I felt nothing for most of the characters and the simplicity became nauseating after a while.
Did I expect too much from this film? Maybe. But I also expected to be somewhat entertained. Given Emmerich's track record with me, I didn't expect the best movie, but I at least wanted to see something interesting and entertaining.
Combine the script, direction, acting, and outlandish stunts and you have a pretty bad movie.
I'm not really that surprised.
So, what can I expect from 2012?
The same as usual.
Emmerich falls into the Hollywood formula, like Cameron is doing lately. You know...big budgets, bad acting, bad story, bad script, all the money going to computerized special effects and lots of 'splosions. Look at Emmerich's Direction track record: Independence Day, 10000 BC, Day after Tomorrow, the Patriot, Godzilla, Stargate. PLEASE STOP THIS MAN AND STOP ME FROM WATCHING ANYMORE OF HIS MOVIES!!!!
Call it being a glutton for punishment- the effects are stunning. A giant wave crashing over the Himalayas is something I've never seen before- so, there was an interest in seeing this film to see if anything else was new. There was...but it wasn't too pleasant. How many times can you have a vehicle ramp off of a jutting piece of earth? Okay, so it was a limo in the first case, and an RV in the second. But how many times can you have a plane fly through crumbling buildings?
I think the originality stopped at the trailer.
Honestly, I did not expect much, but I did expect to be somewhat amused by the film. This one was drawing out so much of the story, that I found myself making the snarky sarcastic comments and predicting who was going to die soon- that was way easier than I thought. Subtlety is not Emmerich's strong point.
The acting? Well, I want to say "What acting?" But at least John Cusak can always be relied upon. The saddest thing I thought was, "How bad have things got in Hollywood that John Cusak- a decent actor in my opinion- ended up in this movie?" Amanda Peet I can leave behind. Oliver Platt always plays a good part. Unfortunately, the script only allowed for cartoon versions of people. I felt nothing for most of the characters and the simplicity became nauseating after a while.
Did I expect too much from this film? Maybe. But I also expected to be somewhat entertained. Given Emmerich's track record with me, I didn't expect the best movie, but I at least wanted to see something interesting and entertaining.
Combine the script, direction, acting, and outlandish stunts and you have a pretty bad movie.
I'm not really that surprised.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Books- The Thin Executioner
I picked up an advanced reader copy of this book by Darren Shan when I was in Portland for PLA. I wanted to blog some ideas about it as I read it. It's fairly good sized, but has a decent pace to it. Technically, a YA book, I'm finding it hard to put down. Not the best I've read, but enough tokeep me interested.
Quick synopsis- Skinny boy's dad is the local executioner- Dad is going to retire- Dad hopes it's his other sons who take his place, not his skinny son who shows no promise- Skinny boy is shamed and quests to homeplace of a god to gain invincibility to win the competition to win the Executioner post, thus restoring his name and proving to his dad that he is worth something.
Okay, not the best description, look it up on Amazon, I'm sure their's will be better ;]
The clincher is that Shan has borrowed much from Huckleberry Finn (It's no secret- it says it on the back of the book) That gave me something to think about.
The real story is turning out to be about friendship, growth, and eventually, I think we'll see a message of walking a peaceful path rather than violent.
Some allusions to Huck Finn are just too apparent, and grant me license here. It's been..what? 20 years since I've read Finn. I remember little parts and the basic story.
Right now, I'm 1/3 through and it's turned into a travel book. What started at a good pace has slowed somewhat and turned into another Tolkien book. I think I see what will come, but it's not overly predictable.
I'll give more review as I finish the book in a few days.
Quick synopsis- Skinny boy's dad is the local executioner- Dad is going to retire- Dad hopes it's his other sons who take his place, not his skinny son who shows no promise- Skinny boy is shamed and quests to homeplace of a god to gain invincibility to win the competition to win the Executioner post, thus restoring his name and proving to his dad that he is worth something.
Okay, not the best description, look it up on Amazon, I'm sure their's will be better ;]
The clincher is that Shan has borrowed much from Huckleberry Finn (It's no secret- it says it on the back of the book) That gave me something to think about.
The real story is turning out to be about friendship, growth, and eventually, I think we'll see a message of walking a peaceful path rather than violent.
Some allusions to Huck Finn are just too apparent, and grant me license here. It's been..what? 20 years since I've read Finn. I remember little parts and the basic story.
Right now, I'm 1/3 through and it's turned into a travel book. What started at a good pace has slowed somewhat and turned into another Tolkien book. I think I see what will come, but it's not overly predictable.
I'll give more review as I finish the book in a few days.
Movies- Julie and Julia
I told myself when I started this blog that I would give most anything a chance. Not that I wasn't interested in this movie, it just wasn't on the top of my list. Considering I love to cook and Julia Child is just about the most down to earth awesome everyperson chef there was, I had to eventually see it.
The quick review- I really loved this movie. I refuse to get all sentimental about movies, but words like "touching", "cute", and "made me smile" comes to mind. As we go through the process of switching stories between the 1940's and '50's Julia, we contend with the more modern Julie writing her blog with her challenge to blog and cook her way through Julia's book "Mastering French Cooking".
I really thought that I'd be more interested in Julia than Julie, but the movie does a find balancing act between the two. I was interested in seeing the competitive process of Julie and just when I couldn't stand anymore there was always the switch to Julia.
One of my first comments about the film was the portrayal of Julia. Having grown up watching Julia Child on PBS, I knew the high pitched voice and the friendly demeanor, but I found Streeps characterization a little onver the top. To me it seemed like Streep portraying Dan Akyroyd portraying Julia (there is a great scence of that classic SNL sketch). As I watched I became more enchanted with Streeps portrayal. It's sacrilege to say, but Streep has only ever impressed me in "Defending Your Life". I 've never been agreat fan of hers. Still, I saw nothign of Streep and so much more of Julia. Is it possble that the Academy picked the worng actress this year?
I came to realize at one late point in the movie that actually Streep was spot on with Julia...actually it has more to do with Julie's perception of Julia. This is what we are actually watching, not the real Julia (although the movie is rich in her biography and life)
This is the second movie I've seen this year that probably should have been given more consideration for Oscars.
The quick review- I really loved this movie. I refuse to get all sentimental about movies, but words like "touching", "cute", and "made me smile" comes to mind. As we go through the process of switching stories between the 1940's and '50's Julia, we contend with the more modern Julie writing her blog with her challenge to blog and cook her way through Julia's book "Mastering French Cooking".
I really thought that I'd be more interested in Julia than Julie, but the movie does a find balancing act between the two. I was interested in seeing the competitive process of Julie and just when I couldn't stand anymore there was always the switch to Julia.
One of my first comments about the film was the portrayal of Julia. Having grown up watching Julia Child on PBS, I knew the high pitched voice and the friendly demeanor, but I found Streeps characterization a little onver the top. To me it seemed like Streep portraying Dan Akyroyd portraying Julia (there is a great scence of that classic SNL sketch). As I watched I became more enchanted with Streeps portrayal. It's sacrilege to say, but Streep has only ever impressed me in "Defending Your Life". I 've never been agreat fan of hers. Still, I saw nothign of Streep and so much more of Julia. Is it possble that the Academy picked the worng actress this year?
I came to realize at one late point in the movie that actually Streep was spot on with Julia...actually it has more to do with Julie's perception of Julia. This is what we are actually watching, not the real Julia (although the movie is rich in her biography and life)
This is the second movie I've seen this year that probably should have been given more consideration for Oscars.
Movie- Man of the Year
I remember wanting to see this when it came out, and some how I managed to mis it until now.
The story centers around a comedian (Robin Williams) who runs for president. He's supposed to be in the same vein as Jon Strewert and the like.
With Robin, Lewis Black, and Chirstopher Walken, how can you go wrong?
It's not that it's a bad movie, just a little disjointed. Where it might have had a great political satire, it slowed into other stories. Where the cover and commercials would have you believe it is a zany comedy, it moves into almost a suspense movie, complete with evil capitalists as the movie movesalong.
A decent movie, and I'm glad I watched it, but not great. Could have been better.
One word of note. When are people going to learn how to handle DVD's. I mean they have been around for how long now? And still I always get the one from the library that looks like a cat used it for a scratching post. Not cool people, and it doesn't really help my viewing pleasure.
The story centers around a comedian (Robin Williams) who runs for president. He's supposed to be in the same vein as Jon Strewert and the like.
With Robin, Lewis Black, and Chirstopher Walken, how can you go wrong?
It's not that it's a bad movie, just a little disjointed. Where it might have had a great political satire, it slowed into other stories. Where the cover and commercials would have you believe it is a zany comedy, it moves into almost a suspense movie, complete with evil capitalists as the movie movesalong.
A decent movie, and I'm glad I watched it, but not great. Could have been better.
One word of note. When are people going to learn how to handle DVD's. I mean they have been around for how long now? And still I always get the one from the library that looks like a cat used it for a scratching post. Not cool people, and it doesn't really help my viewing pleasure.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Movies New Moon DVD Review
Okay, so I was not a huge fan of Twilight...bare that in mind. I don't go crazy like the teens do for this *my opinion* popularization of Vampires into less than an action/horror story and more of a romance type genre. There....I said it. *Ducks as millions of teens scoff and throw sparkly vampire dust at the Brainbrarian.*
Honestly, upon hearing from many librarians how great this series was, I expected more. I tried to read Twilight....but the simplicity of the characters and the writing bored me to tears within the first fifty pages or so.
So, the movies. I thought I would be able to handle 2 hours of this and might even be interested in giving the books a second chance. Heck there might even be enough bloodsucking to redeem itself.
i was wrong
First, the acting. Experience taught me that the actors in the film are mediocre at best. Bela delivers each line like she's about ready to cry and beloved Edward is just there- glowing white without any real enthusiasm in the job, delivering stiff lines, and looking to his "bad-boy messed up hair" to win over the hearts of the nation. Jacob is portrayed as only mildly more interesting than Edward and acted as such.
The special effects were horrible. Canned looking computer graphics took us into video game land. And frankly, Werewolves are more than just bif wolves. Let's inject a bit a creativity in there.
Direction, editing, etc. fell apart into a mindnumbing jumble of scenes. If this is what the book is like- I don't want any.
Finally,
You know every once in a while you see a movie that just begs to be made fun of with all of your friends around- the crude comments, the nasty jokes, etc. This is one- and I didn't even need an audience of friends around to entertain. My own cuts and jabs added to the soundtrack kept me more than enough entertained where the movie failed.
Honestly, upon hearing from many librarians how great this series was, I expected more. I tried to read Twilight....but the simplicity of the characters and the writing bored me to tears within the first fifty pages or so.
So, the movies. I thought I would be able to handle 2 hours of this and might even be interested in giving the books a second chance. Heck there might even be enough bloodsucking to redeem itself.
i was wrong
First, the acting. Experience taught me that the actors in the film are mediocre at best. Bela delivers each line like she's about ready to cry and beloved Edward is just there- glowing white without any real enthusiasm in the job, delivering stiff lines, and looking to his "bad-boy messed up hair" to win over the hearts of the nation. Jacob is portrayed as only mildly more interesting than Edward and acted as such.
The special effects were horrible. Canned looking computer graphics took us into video game land. And frankly, Werewolves are more than just bif wolves. Let's inject a bit a creativity in there.
Direction, editing, etc. fell apart into a mindnumbing jumble of scenes. If this is what the book is like- I don't want any.
Finally,
You know every once in a while you see a movie that just begs to be made fun of with all of your friends around- the crude comments, the nasty jokes, etc. This is one- and I didn't even need an audience of friends around to entertain. My own cuts and jabs added to the soundtrack kept me more than enough entertained where the movie failed.
Welcome to my new blog. I think the main focus is going to be all of the books, music and movies that pass my way as a librairan. I was recently inspired to start this due to a number of epiphanies that came my way this week
1) After returning form the Public Library Association Conference in March, i had a renewed sense of librarian to customer satisfaction. I could not wait to get back and work again (I know, it's sick!). I had so many program ideas, organization, and book titles to share that I just couldn't keep it to myself.
2) Currently, I am Reading This Book is Overdue- How Librarians and Cybrarians Can Save Us All by Marilyn Johnson. The stories contained within are very inspiring and insightful.
3) Well, I just can't shut up! I am a very polarized person. When I LOVE something, I have to talk about it continuously and analyze it to death. It's the same for when I HATE something. There is very little that falls in the middle. I really do try to be fair and the analyzation is my fairness coming through. I will give most things a chance to sway me or redeem themselves.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the rants positive or negative. I'll keep it varied and as current as possible. Feedback/Comments are always welcome, as this should be a place to share ideas. It's okay to agree or disagree.
1) After returning form the Public Library Association Conference in March, i had a renewed sense of librarian to customer satisfaction. I could not wait to get back and work again (I know, it's sick!). I had so many program ideas, organization, and book titles to share that I just couldn't keep it to myself.
2) Currently, I am Reading This Book is Overdue- How Librarians and Cybrarians Can Save Us All by Marilyn Johnson. The stories contained within are very inspiring and insightful.
3) Well, I just can't shut up! I am a very polarized person. When I LOVE something, I have to talk about it continuously and analyze it to death. It's the same for when I HATE something. There is very little that falls in the middle. I really do try to be fair and the analyzation is my fairness coming through. I will give most things a chance to sway me or redeem themselves.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy the rants positive or negative. I'll keep it varied and as current as possible. Feedback/Comments are always welcome, as this should be a place to share ideas. It's okay to agree or disagree.
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