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Awix (3310 KP) rated The Fast and the Furious (2001) in Movies
Mar 30, 2018 (Updated Mar 30, 2018)
Original Fast & Furious movie is a very different kettle of fish, a modest little genre movie rather than a swaggering juggernaut of a blockbuster. Undercover cop on a mission finds himself falling in love with a suspect (I refer to the manly bromance between Paul Walker and Vin Diesel, but Walker has a thing with Jordana Brewster too, of course). Which way will he jump when the chips hit the fan?
Much grittier and more credible than the films made after the series entered its blockbuster incarnation; even the laws of physics are mostly respected. All the chasing about and scenes with people dismantling carburettors are the backdrop to a man confronting the dangerous glamour of a life of crime and having an existential crisis as a result. When all the stunts and action kick off the film becomes rather less interesting, even if it is more recognisable as what we now know as F&F. Smartly written, nicely performed; it's clear that no-one involved envisaged this as the Launchpad for a multi-billion dollar franchise, but it's the elements and themes established here that give the series much of its warmth and charm.
Much grittier and more credible than the films made after the series entered its blockbuster incarnation; even the laws of physics are mostly respected. All the chasing about and scenes with people dismantling carburettors are the backdrop to a man confronting the dangerous glamour of a life of crime and having an existential crisis as a result. When all the stunts and action kick off the film becomes rather less interesting, even if it is more recognisable as what we now know as F&F. Smartly written, nicely performed; it's clear that no-one involved envisaged this as the Launchpad for a multi-billion dollar franchise, but it's the elements and themes established here that give the series much of its warmth and charm.
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated The Quick in Books
Feb 21, 2018
**I received an ARC of this book at no cost, but was not compensated for this review.**
This book has some elements of the trendy epistolary style of story-telling via documents woven into a traditional, Victorian-style novel. James Norbury is an aspiring poet who finds himself living in London with the friend of a friend. A quiet, shy man, James finds friendship, love, and then tragedy as his life is torn apart by events completely outside of his control. The first part of the book tells us James' story, then we move on to journal entries and tales from other points of view, and slowly piece together what is truly happening in London, and what James has unwittingly become involved in.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book but was quickly drawn into James' London. The book is both surprising and at times terrible, but I couldn't put it down. This is definitely not a story for the feint-of-heart, but a very good read set in an entirely believable world filled with characters you won't soon forget.
This book has some elements of the trendy epistolary style of story-telling via documents woven into a traditional, Victorian-style novel. James Norbury is an aspiring poet who finds himself living in London with the friend of a friend. A quiet, shy man, James finds friendship, love, and then tragedy as his life is torn apart by events completely outside of his control. The first part of the book tells us James' story, then we move on to journal entries and tales from other points of view, and slowly piece together what is truly happening in London, and what James has unwittingly become involved in.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book but was quickly drawn into James' London. The book is both surprising and at times terrible, but I couldn't put it down. This is definitely not a story for the feint-of-heart, but a very good read set in an entirely believable world filled with characters you won't soon forget.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2436 KP) rated The Last Dinosaur (Mirage Mysteries #3) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Melissa Baugh was the victim of a dinosaur – at least the one being used to film a movie outside of Phoenix. Someone used the full size dinosaur to trample her. Phoenix cops Joe and Tommy are called into help with the investigation, but as it leads in some unexpected directions, will they be able to find her killer?
This mystery doesn’t wrap up as neatly as I normally enjoy since a couple of the hows are left for us to figure out. We can, but it would be nice if we didn’t have to guess. However, the who and the why are perfectly logical, and it is a fun ride getting to the end. Joe and Tommy are fun main characters, and I like watching them and the supporting cast in action. We get to see more of Rico, Joe’s son, and I enjoyed that as well. A sub-plot involving a traveling preacher adds to the fun, and the Christian elements adds to the book overall without becoming preachy.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/06/book-review-last-dinosaur-by-sandy.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This mystery doesn’t wrap up as neatly as I normally enjoy since a couple of the hows are left for us to figure out. We can, but it would be nice if we didn’t have to guess. However, the who and the why are perfectly logical, and it is a fun ride getting to the end. Joe and Tommy are fun main characters, and I like watching them and the supporting cast in action. We get to see more of Rico, Joe’s son, and I enjoyed that as well. A sub-plot involving a traveling preacher adds to the fun, and the Christian elements adds to the book overall without becoming preachy.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/06/book-review-last-dinosaur-by-sandy.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) rated The Body Finder (The Body Finder, #1) in Books
Jun 7, 2018
Okay, so I didn't fall in love with this book right away. For awhile, I thought I was going to rate the book 2, maybe 3 stars. However, about 2/3 of the way into the book, it became really good, and it definitely got boosted to 4 stars.
I loved, loved, loved the relationship between Jay & Violet. I thought it was really sweet =) I loved how protective he was of her, not in the "she's a girl so she can't take care of herself" way but because he genuinely cared for her.
The character of Chelsea made me laugh. I loved her sarcasm =)
It did have a hint of Mean Girls in it though. The character of Claire reminded me a lot of Amanda Seyfried's character in the film. And there is the mention of a Queen Bee.
I loved the plot as well. I've never read anything like it. I like the way the author brought together the elements of suspense, crime, romance, and paranormal. They all blended very well.
I'd definitely recommend this book. It does take a long time to get going, as I've said before, but once it does, it definitely drags you in!
I loved, loved, loved the relationship between Jay & Violet. I thought it was really sweet =) I loved how protective he was of her, not in the "she's a girl so she can't take care of herself" way but because he genuinely cared for her.
The character of Chelsea made me laugh. I loved her sarcasm =)
It did have a hint of Mean Girls in it though. The character of Claire reminded me a lot of Amanda Seyfried's character in the film. And there is the mention of a Queen Bee.
I loved the plot as well. I've never read anything like it. I like the way the author brought together the elements of suspense, crime, romance, and paranormal. They all blended very well.
I'd definitely recommend this book. It does take a long time to get going, as I've said before, but once it does, it definitely drags you in!
Steph (468 KP) rated Betrayal at House on the Hill in Tabletop Games
Jul 19, 2018
A lot of people I know really like this game, but I am not a big fan. I've played it four or five times- I keep giving it another chance and I just don't think it deserves one. The good thing is it has a lot of replayability with all of the different scenarios. The bad- this game has a LOT of down time. When it isn't your turn, it is incredibly boring. There's not a lot of big decisions or thought to even be made on your turn, so you have about 30 seconds of doing something interesting and then 10-15 minutes of waiting around before it's your turn again (especially if people haven't played before). The game is very high variance- it really depends on a lot of random elements. It is the randomness more than anything you actually strategize during the game to do that determines what happens in the end. It's a really simple semi-cooperative board game. If you are newer to board games and want to play something simple, I would recommend it. If you're expecting a challenging horror board game with a traitor mechanic, I really would not.
Lexi (8 KP) rated Pokémon GO in Apps
Sep 3, 2018
Great for anxiety (2 more)
Good exercise motivator
Friendship elements
Great for anxiety
Pokemon Go is one of my biggest assets when it comes to battling my anxiety. There are some days I would not push myself to get out the house but Pokemon Go has really helped with that. It gives me small daily goals to get me out the house when I would otherwise hide in and it's introduced me to a whole load of great friends I wouldn't have met otherwise.
It has a very good way of motivating you to walk just that little bit further. Whether it's a pokemon you haven't caught or just to reach another pokestop, before you know it you've walked a few miles a day. Great for social anxiety and for fitness/weight loss goals.
Love the new friends feature which rewards you for playing with friends. There are special bonuses for certain group activities such as trading and baking in gyms.
It's generally just really fun. I've been playing since its launch in 2016. The game has currently only reached generation three so there's still so much to achieve!
It has a very good way of motivating you to walk just that little bit further. Whether it's a pokemon you haven't caught or just to reach another pokestop, before you know it you've walked a few miles a day. Great for social anxiety and for fitness/weight loss goals.
Love the new friends feature which rewards you for playing with friends. There are special bonuses for certain group activities such as trading and baking in gyms.
It's generally just really fun. I've been playing since its launch in 2016. The game has currently only reached generation three so there's still so much to achieve!
Leah (: (569 KP) rated Wolves and Roses (Fairy Tales of the Magicorum book 1) in Books
Sep 15, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It follows the story of Bryar Rose a human girl who should be following a Sleeping Beauty life template, however Bryar has different ideas.
This book is not a re telling of Sleeping Beauty it has lots of different elements that make the story unique. The story has quite a few secrets and mysteries which was good as the reveals were often a surprise. The story was quite fast paced which kept it engaging and the ending was not rushed.
I liked Bryar’s character as I found her a realistic teenage girl. She gets a bit boy crazy but not to the point that she loses her character. She likes to ignore/ put off some of her problems and pretend she is normal when things get a bit too crazy. I enjoyed seeing her friendship with Elle as it did show her more mature side.
This book is part of a series so most of Bryar’s story is resolved there is a novella and another book left of Bryar before we move onto Elle’s story. So I imagine the big storyline which effects other characters will still take a while to finish.
This book is not a re telling of Sleeping Beauty it has lots of different elements that make the story unique. The story has quite a few secrets and mysteries which was good as the reveals were often a surprise. The story was quite fast paced which kept it engaging and the ending was not rushed.
I liked Bryar’s character as I found her a realistic teenage girl. She gets a bit boy crazy but not to the point that she loses her character. She likes to ignore/ put off some of her problems and pretend she is normal when things get a bit too crazy. I enjoyed seeing her friendship with Elle as it did show her more mature side.
This book is part of a series so most of Bryar’s story is resolved there is a novella and another book left of Bryar before we move onto Elle’s story. So I imagine the big storyline which effects other characters will still take a while to finish.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Talk Talk - Single by Cannons in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Cannons is an electro-pop band from Los Angeles, California. Not too long ago, they released a music video for their “Talk Talk” single.
“You say it felt so nice. That’s when I am near. I’m fighting voices in my mind, voices telling lies about it. ‘Cause it feels so right with your arms around me.” – lyrics
‘Talk Talk’ will be featured on Cannons’ upcoming album, entitled, “Shadows”, available later this summer.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, dreamy vocals, and groovy instrumentation seasoned with a chill ‘70s vibe. Also, the song possesses indie-alternative and electro-pop elements.
Cannons formed in 2013 when childhood friends Ryan Clapham and Paul Davis met Michelle Joy.
The two grew up on the same street in Los Angeles and had been trying to start a band for years. But nothing had quite clicked until their paths crossed hers.
Michelle’s effortless vocals melded perfectly with Ryan’s old school, Memphis-style R&B chord progressions and Paul’s densely layered productions.
Since then, their music has been licensed in HBO’s first season of Ballers, and used to soundtrack the rollout for Kendall & Kylie Jenner’s Topshop line.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/cannons-talk/
“You say it felt so nice. That’s when I am near. I’m fighting voices in my mind, voices telling lies about it. ‘Cause it feels so right with your arms around me.” – lyrics
‘Talk Talk’ will be featured on Cannons’ upcoming album, entitled, “Shadows”, available later this summer.
The likable tune contains a relatable storyline, dreamy vocals, and groovy instrumentation seasoned with a chill ‘70s vibe. Also, the song possesses indie-alternative and electro-pop elements.
Cannons formed in 2013 when childhood friends Ryan Clapham and Paul Davis met Michelle Joy.
The two grew up on the same street in Los Angeles and had been trying to start a band for years. But nothing had quite clicked until their paths crossed hers.
Michelle’s effortless vocals melded perfectly with Ryan’s old school, Memphis-style R&B chord progressions and Paul’s densely layered productions.
Since then, their music has been licensed in HBO’s first season of Ballers, and used to soundtrack the rollout for Kendall & Kylie Jenner’s Topshop line.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/cannons-talk/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Hol' It - Single by Keyz Vango in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Keyz Vango is a Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter and producer from Montgomery, Alabama. Not too long ago, he released an affectionate R&B tune, entitled, “Hol’ It”.
‘Hol’ It’ contains a relatable storyline, harmonious vocals, and chill instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B, urban-pop, and hip-hop elements.
The likable tune tells an interesting tale of a young guy who anticipates that his success will create distance within his relationship which he shares with his significant other.
Therefore, he asks his girlfriend in advance, before he travels overseas, to hold things down until he returns home.
“‘Hol’ It’ is an intimate and amazing bit of 3 AM Soul and belongs in the ears of anyone who loves modern R&B. Also, the song is an emotive slow jam which deals with ideas of love and loyalty.”
Keyz Vango was born in Alabama to a gospel music family and moved to New York as a child. He attended college for a while but dropped out to pursue his musical ambitions.
Starting out as a versatile producer and ghostwriter across several genres, he grew into the multifaceted artist he is today over time.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/keyz-vango-hol-it/
‘Hol’ It’ contains a relatable storyline, harmonious vocals, and chill instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B, urban-pop, and hip-hop elements.
The likable tune tells an interesting tale of a young guy who anticipates that his success will create distance within his relationship which he shares with his significant other.
Therefore, he asks his girlfriend in advance, before he travels overseas, to hold things down until he returns home.
“‘Hol’ It’ is an intimate and amazing bit of 3 AM Soul and belongs in the ears of anyone who loves modern R&B. Also, the song is an emotive slow jam which deals with ideas of love and loyalty.”
Keyz Vango was born in Alabama to a gospel music family and moved to New York as a child. He attended college for a while but dropped out to pursue his musical ambitions.
Starting out as a versatile producer and ghostwriter across several genres, he grew into the multifaceted artist he is today over time.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/keyz-vango-hol-it/
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Front Seat - Single by Talii in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Talii is a singer-songwriter based in Orlando, Florida. Not too long ago, she released a lyric video for her tropical pop tune, entitled, “Front Seat”.
“I don’t think we ever met in this lifetime but my soul knows you. I don’t recognize you with my eyes but I think I’m starting to. You reflect the best of me, make me wanna give my all to you. I’m tryna get to know you better.” – lyrics
‘Front Seat’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who courageously decides to take the lead in her life.
Apparently, she looks within herself for guidance and gets in tune with her soul. Later, she admits, she’s becoming somebody and starting to remember who she truly is.
‘Front Seat’ contains an adorable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and rhythmic instrumentation flavored with tropical, R&B, and dancehall elements.
“The title refers to moving your ego out of the driver’s seat and allowing your true self to take the wheel. It’s a representation of appreciating and loving the person I’m becoming. It reflects my growth and evolution not only musically but within my life overall.” – Talii via Billboard
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/talii-front-seat/
“I don’t think we ever met in this lifetime but my soul knows you. I don’t recognize you with my eyes but I think I’m starting to. You reflect the best of me, make me wanna give my all to you. I’m tryna get to know you better.” – lyrics
‘Front Seat’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who courageously decides to take the lead in her life.
Apparently, she looks within herself for guidance and gets in tune with her soul. Later, she admits, she’s becoming somebody and starting to remember who she truly is.
‘Front Seat’ contains an adorable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and rhythmic instrumentation flavored with tropical, R&B, and dancehall elements.
“The title refers to moving your ego out of the driver’s seat and allowing your true self to take the wheel. It’s a representation of appreciating and loving the person I’m becoming. It reflects my growth and evolution not only musically but within my life overall.” – Talii via Billboard
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/talii-front-seat/