Search
Search results
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Dawn of the Dead (2004) in Movies
Oct 15, 2021
The 2004 remake of the hugely influential Dawn of the Dead retains some key elements from it 70s counterpart, but is essentially, its own separate thing (This doesn't really bother me, because truth be told, I'm not the biggest fan of the original...)
The iconic shopping mall setting remains, and like the OG film, it's the best character. The mall lends such a unique feel to a genre that is well trodden. The similarities essentially end there. This time around, the zombies themselves are fast, vicious, definitely a modern upgrade to Romero's classic slow moving bois. There are some decent action scenes throughout (the opening 10 minutes is genuinely fantastic) and doesn't skimp on the gory stuff. It's ticks all the right zombie boxes.
Unfortunately, this version is absolutely brimming with asshat characters that really drag the experience down. With the exception of Ving Rhames, the dude who owns the gun shop, and the dog (because dog), it's really difficult to give a flying shit about any of these walking horror clichés - I genuinely think this movie takes the gold for the characters-who-make-really-dumb-decisions-and-put-everyone-else-in-danger category.
What's worse is that just when you're about getting used to all of these douches, a whole bunch more are suddenly introduced at the half way point!
That being said, Dawn of the Dead is still a perfectly entertaining popcorn horror that will satiate zombie fans. It's unsurprisingly not-as-good as the original, but I fully respect that Snyder tried to do something different instead of going through the motions, even if that does mean it loses most of the subtext that runs beneath the original's surface. Worth it if anything, for the weird CGI zombie baby....
The iconic shopping mall setting remains, and like the OG film, it's the best character. The mall lends such a unique feel to a genre that is well trodden. The similarities essentially end there. This time around, the zombies themselves are fast, vicious, definitely a modern upgrade to Romero's classic slow moving bois. There are some decent action scenes throughout (the opening 10 minutes is genuinely fantastic) and doesn't skimp on the gory stuff. It's ticks all the right zombie boxes.
Unfortunately, this version is absolutely brimming with asshat characters that really drag the experience down. With the exception of Ving Rhames, the dude who owns the gun shop, and the dog (because dog), it's really difficult to give a flying shit about any of these walking horror clichés - I genuinely think this movie takes the gold for the characters-who-make-really-dumb-decisions-and-put-everyone-else-in-danger category.
What's worse is that just when you're about getting used to all of these douches, a whole bunch more are suddenly introduced at the half way point!
That being said, Dawn of the Dead is still a perfectly entertaining popcorn horror that will satiate zombie fans. It's unsurprisingly not-as-good as the original, but I fully respect that Snyder tried to do something different instead of going through the motions, even if that does mean it loses most of the subtext that runs beneath the original's surface. Worth it if anything, for the weird CGI zombie baby....
Hazel (2934 KP) rated Nowhere To Run in Books
Oct 24, 2021 (Updated Oct 24, 2021)
This is the third instalment in the Constance Fairchild series and yet another that doesn't disappoint. You don't have to have read any of the other 2 books but I would suggest you do because it gives insight into Constance's story and you won't regret it. Nowhere to Run provides some of the back story and history but it can only touch upon it otherwise it would be a tome!
I think I can safely say that I'm a fan of James Oswald's work and I particularly like his character DC Constance Fairchild, otherwise known as Con. She is one tough cookie and this is shown in all its glory here.
It starts off pretty sedately with Con recuperating in an isolated cottage in Wales but, as is the case with Con, trouble seems to find her regardless of whether she is in the centre of London or in the middle of nowhere! Here she is getting embroiled in a smuggling operation on the Welsh coastline - you just know from the very beginning that things aren't going to go well for Con but little do we know just how bad.
Once again, Mr Oswald creates fantastic characters even ones of the four legged variety; I absolutely loved Gelert the deerhound who embodies the phrase "[wo]man's best friend" and I guarantee you will want a Gelert in your life albeit without the flatulence!
With action from the start, numerous scenes of peril and suspense all wrapped up perfectly in a plot which mixes contemporary themes with Welsh folklore and a touch of the unexplained, this is a book that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Thank you Headline and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
I think I can safely say that I'm a fan of James Oswald's work and I particularly like his character DC Constance Fairchild, otherwise known as Con. She is one tough cookie and this is shown in all its glory here.
It starts off pretty sedately with Con recuperating in an isolated cottage in Wales but, as is the case with Con, trouble seems to find her regardless of whether she is in the centre of London or in the middle of nowhere! Here she is getting embroiled in a smuggling operation on the Welsh coastline - you just know from the very beginning that things aren't going to go well for Con but little do we know just how bad.
Once again, Mr Oswald creates fantastic characters even ones of the four legged variety; I absolutely loved Gelert the deerhound who embodies the phrase "[wo]man's best friend" and I guarantee you will want a Gelert in your life albeit without the flatulence!
With action from the start, numerous scenes of peril and suspense all wrapped up perfectly in a plot which mixes contemporary themes with Welsh folklore and a touch of the unexplained, this is a book that I have no hesitation in recommending.
Thank you Headline and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated It’s A Wonderful Midlife Crisis ( Good to the Last Death 1) in Books
Jun 4, 2024
111 of 220
Kindle
It’s A Wonderful Midlife Crisis ( Good to the last death 1)
By Robyn Peterman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whoever said life begins at forty must have been heavily medicated, drunk, or delusional.
Thirty-nine was a fantastic year. I was married to the man I loved. I had a body that worked without creaking. My grandma, who raised me, was still healthy, and life was pretty damned good.
But as they say, all good things come to an end. I’d honestly love to know who ’they’ are and rip them a new one. One year later, I’m a widow. My joints are starting to ache. Gram is in the nursing home, and dead people think my home is some kind of supernatural bed and breakfast. Gluing body parts onto semi-transparent people has become a side job—deceased people I’m not even sure are actually there. I think they need my help, but since I don’t speak dead, we’re having a few issues.
To add to the heap of trouble, there’s a new dangerously smokin’ hot lawyer at the firm who won't stop giving me the eye. My BFF is thrilled with her new frozen face, thanks to her plastic surgeon, her alimony check, and the miracle of Botox. And then there’s the little conundrum that I’m becoming way too attached to my ghostly squatters… Like Cher, I'd like to turn back time. Now.
No can do.
Whatever. I have wine, good friends, and an industrial sized box of superglue. What could possibly go wrong?
Everything, apparently.
This was really good. It was witty, funny, heartwarming and sad all at once. A lighthearted read quick read. Definitely can’t wait to read the next one.
Kindle
It’s A Wonderful Midlife Crisis ( Good to the last death 1)
By Robyn Peterman
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whoever said life begins at forty must have been heavily medicated, drunk, or delusional.
Thirty-nine was a fantastic year. I was married to the man I loved. I had a body that worked without creaking. My grandma, who raised me, was still healthy, and life was pretty damned good.
But as they say, all good things come to an end. I’d honestly love to know who ’they’ are and rip them a new one. One year later, I’m a widow. My joints are starting to ache. Gram is in the nursing home, and dead people think my home is some kind of supernatural bed and breakfast. Gluing body parts onto semi-transparent people has become a side job—deceased people I’m not even sure are actually there. I think they need my help, but since I don’t speak dead, we’re having a few issues.
To add to the heap of trouble, there’s a new dangerously smokin’ hot lawyer at the firm who won't stop giving me the eye. My BFF is thrilled with her new frozen face, thanks to her plastic surgeon, her alimony check, and the miracle of Botox. And then there’s the little conundrum that I’m becoming way too attached to my ghostly squatters… Like Cher, I'd like to turn back time. Now.
No can do.
Whatever. I have wine, good friends, and an industrial sized box of superglue. What could possibly go wrong?
Everything, apparently.
This was really good. It was witty, funny, heartwarming and sad all at once. A lighthearted read quick read. Definitely can’t wait to read the next one.
Would You Rather? Book for Kids 8-12: 350 Challenging Questions, Silly Scenarios, and Hilarious Situations
8.0
Rate It
Book
Why settle for a boring day when you can sprinkle it with the magic of laughter? This fantastic...
LeftSideCut (3776 KP) rated Pig (2021) in Movies
Nov 30, 2021
Nicolas Cage's placement within the zeitgeist is almost legendary at this point. His various unhinged performances over the decades have ensured that he's the go-to-guy for any movie with a whacky premise that needs a lead who will commit to the part, no matter how ludicrous. Pig is a film that has fallen a little foul of this. It's a film that had been mistakenly billed to me as "John Wick but with Nicolas Cage and a pig", a film that's very synopsis lends itself to the absurdity that surrounds Cage and his career.
The finished project however is an emotional and heartfelt triumph. For starters, the whole movie is shot beautifully with plenty of stunning cinematography on display. It verges into arthouse territory fairly regularly, but works hand in hand with the way the narrative chugs along, quite wonderfully.
The slower pace of proceedings is filled with great dialogue and great turns from the likes of Adam Arkin and the ever-reliable Alex Wolff, but make no mistake, Pig belongs to Cage 100%. His performance here is nothing short of fantastic. His character is layered, and aspects of him are slowly revealed as the story unfolds, and Cage delivers it all pretty flawlessly. No joke, probably his career highlight.
The tone is a rollercoaster, from optimism amongst sadness to flat out despair. The climactic scene in particular is an absolutly beautiful and emotional shit show, that lands perfectly thanks to its stellar cast.
Pig is a movie that I didn't expect to get me as much as it did. It's an incredibly competent, subtle, and well realised debut full-length feature from Michael Sarnoski, that I imagine will be criminally overlooked when awards season rolls around. Give Nicolas Cage an Oscar dammit!
The finished project however is an emotional and heartfelt triumph. For starters, the whole movie is shot beautifully with plenty of stunning cinematography on display. It verges into arthouse territory fairly regularly, but works hand in hand with the way the narrative chugs along, quite wonderfully.
The slower pace of proceedings is filled with great dialogue and great turns from the likes of Adam Arkin and the ever-reliable Alex Wolff, but make no mistake, Pig belongs to Cage 100%. His performance here is nothing short of fantastic. His character is layered, and aspects of him are slowly revealed as the story unfolds, and Cage delivers it all pretty flawlessly. No joke, probably his career highlight.
The tone is a rollercoaster, from optimism amongst sadness to flat out despair. The climactic scene in particular is an absolutly beautiful and emotional shit show, that lands perfectly thanks to its stellar cast.
Pig is a movie that I didn't expect to get me as much as it did. It's an incredibly competent, subtle, and well realised debut full-length feature from Michael Sarnoski, that I imagine will be criminally overlooked when awards season rolls around. Give Nicolas Cage an Oscar dammit!
Merissa (14003 KP) rated The Elusive Sun (Etherya's Earth #2) in Books
Feb 9, 2022
THE ELUSIVE SUN is the second full-length novel in the Etherya's Earth series. Sathan and Miranda are happy as can be, so now it's turn for Lila and Latimus to work out their issues. And, boy, do they have a few!!!
It is so easy to return to this world as it has been described and built with such detail as to make it incredibly easy to believe in. My heart broke for Lila at the same time as my respect for her and her abilities rose sky-high. She may be polite and well-mannered but don't ever mistake her for being weak-willed. She can hold her own against Latimus, so that tells you something!
As for Latimus, well, he's a jerk. Always has been, always will be... or will he? Is Lila actually going to be able to work her magic on his stubbornness? These two really are a match made in heaven, and I loved reading every single word. There is one other word I need to say - Jack. So adorable and rounds out his little family. What a warrior.
This book is now without losses, and my eyes definitely leaked when Takel was so heroic. I won't say anything else because of spoilers but ALL. THE. FEELS.
A fantastic addition to the series that I have loved - although I will admit to not thinking much of Etherya herself. I look forward to seeing how she manipulates things in the future. Highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
It is so easy to return to this world as it has been described and built with such detail as to make it incredibly easy to believe in. My heart broke for Lila at the same time as my respect for her and her abilities rose sky-high. She may be polite and well-mannered but don't ever mistake her for being weak-willed. She can hold her own against Latimus, so that tells you something!
As for Latimus, well, he's a jerk. Always has been, always will be... or will he? Is Lila actually going to be able to work her magic on his stubbornness? These two really are a match made in heaven, and I loved reading every single word. There is one other word I need to say - Jack. So adorable and rounds out his little family. What a warrior.
This book is now without losses, and my eyes definitely leaked when Takel was so heroic. I won't say anything else because of spoilers but ALL. THE. FEELS.
A fantastic addition to the series that I have loved - although I will admit to not thinking much of Etherya herself. I look forward to seeing how she manipulates things in the future. Highly recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Merissa (14003 KP) rated The Mayfair Moon (The Darkwoods Trilogy #1) in Books
Mar 31, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
About a week ago I was lamenting the fact that I am so behind on reading the books that I have downloaded onto my Kindle, and that I have so many now (over a thousand) that I can't remember what they are about. I have now come to realise that this is not always a bad thing. For hidden in the middle of August 2012, I have just read a book that is absolutely fantastic.
I will start by saying that it is the Paranormal genre, which as most of you know, is a favourite of mine. It has been compared to the Twilight Saga and admittedly, if you have read the books - not just seen the films - there are similarities and not just for the fact that there are werewolves. But there are also striking differences which make this book stand alone and not just in the shadow of Twilight.
This is a gritty, fast-paced book with well-rounded characters that you can get your teeth into (pardon the pun). There are twists and turns, revelations and mysteries, good guys who are not saccharine sweet and evil guys that you really do dislike. The relationships between the characters are believable and I know I had a best friend like Harry and still do.
There is violence and blood in this book but it does not take over the story and becomes unnecessary. This actually makes a nice change from the loveable, cuddly werewolves that you normally get who are so soft they can't fight out of a wet paper bag.
Recommended for anyone who was Team Jacob, who like Paranormal with a hint of romance and for all who like reading about werewolves.
* Verified Purchase ~ August 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 27, 2016
I will start by saying that it is the Paranormal genre, which as most of you know, is a favourite of mine. It has been compared to the Twilight Saga and admittedly, if you have read the books - not just seen the films - there are similarities and not just for the fact that there are werewolves. But there are also striking differences which make this book stand alone and not just in the shadow of Twilight.
This is a gritty, fast-paced book with well-rounded characters that you can get your teeth into (pardon the pun). There are twists and turns, revelations and mysteries, good guys who are not saccharine sweet and evil guys that you really do dislike. The relationships between the characters are believable and I know I had a best friend like Harry and still do.
There is violence and blood in this book but it does not take over the story and becomes unnecessary. This actually makes a nice change from the loveable, cuddly werewolves that you normally get who are so soft they can't fight out of a wet paper bag.
Recommended for anyone who was Team Jacob, who like Paranormal with a hint of romance and for all who like reading about werewolves.
* Verified Purchase ~ August 2012 *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 27, 2016
Merissa (14003 KP) rated Good Karma (Strong Karma Trilogy #1) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
I first fell in love with Donya Lynne's characters when I read her All The King's Men series so when I heard she was releasing a contemporary romance novel, I really wanted to read it to see if it could be as good.
Good Karma starts off with a sassy red dress and attitude, even if it is veneer. Mark Strong is attracted to that dress as it calls for his attention but then is swept away by the woman inside it. Karma is playing at being someone else for the evening and can't believe that she has caught the eye of one of the most handsome men there. Full of her own insecurities caused by her past, she thinks she is ready to let it all go but realises that she is not. This story follows Mark and Karma as they serendipitously meet up again, this time as work colleagues for a short-term contract.
This story is beautifully written and the characters have their own issues and pasts to deal with which makes them 'real'. Mark is an alpha male through and through but has also learnt to embrace his sensitive side. Karma is a strong female lead who is the perfect match for Mark but will need his help to deal with her own issues.
A fantastic story that entwined itself around me and yes, tissues were needed at some point but it wasn't because I was crying. Oh no, it's just my eyes were leaking!
If you have read AKM then rest assured that this book still has the Donya Lynne stamp and will sit happily next to each other. Definitely as good but just a different genre.
Recommended to all.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 31, 2019
Good Karma starts off with a sassy red dress and attitude, even if it is veneer. Mark Strong is attracted to that dress as it calls for his attention but then is swept away by the woman inside it. Karma is playing at being someone else for the evening and can't believe that she has caught the eye of one of the most handsome men there. Full of her own insecurities caused by her past, she thinks she is ready to let it all go but realises that she is not. This story follows Mark and Karma as they serendipitously meet up again, this time as work colleagues for a short-term contract.
This story is beautifully written and the characters have their own issues and pasts to deal with which makes them 'real'. Mark is an alpha male through and through but has also learnt to embrace his sensitive side. Karma is a strong female lead who is the perfect match for Mark but will need his help to deal with her own issues.
A fantastic story that entwined itself around me and yes, tissues were needed at some point but it wasn't because I was crying. Oh no, it's just my eyes were leaking!
If you have read AKM then rest assured that this book still has the Donya Lynne stamp and will sit happily next to each other. Definitely as good but just a different genre.
Recommended to all.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 31, 2019
Merissa (14003 KP) rated Thawed Fortunes (Guadel Chronicles #2) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
This is the second book in a fantastic Fantasy series that is getting better and better. I gave Frozen Prospects 4 out of 5 stars but Thawed Fortunes is definitely worth a 5!
The story continues where it left off and Va'del is still trying to find his niche. He has Javin, Mar'li and On'li in his corner but their hands are being increasingly tied by political manoeuvrings. Jain is still with him and their relationship is becoming stronger as they both accept each other, flaws and all. They think that their time may be limited though as both are aware that the council will have the ultimate say in whether they can be married or not. If Va'del doesn't become a Candidate then it isn't even an option.
There is a lot more political wrangling and power plays in this book and unfortunately, Va'del is always smack in the middle of it. The politicians are playing with his life, hopes and dreams and he doesn't know how much more he can take.
This book is action-packed, both physically and mentally. Va'del as a character is a delight to read as he is very complex and you never know how he will react to a given situation. Jain is solid and stronger than she thinks. I really hope that these two are able to marry at some point!
A brilliant book that takes the series to the next level. Can't wait for the next one.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 11, 2016
The story continues where it left off and Va'del is still trying to find his niche. He has Javin, Mar'li and On'li in his corner but their hands are being increasingly tied by political manoeuvrings. Jain is still with him and their relationship is becoming stronger as they both accept each other, flaws and all. They think that their time may be limited though as both are aware that the council will have the ultimate say in whether they can be married or not. If Va'del doesn't become a Candidate then it isn't even an option.
There is a lot more political wrangling and power plays in this book and unfortunately, Va'del is always smack in the middle of it. The politicians are playing with his life, hopes and dreams and he doesn't know how much more he can take.
This book is action-packed, both physically and mentally. Va'del as a character is a delight to read as he is very complex and you never know how he will react to a given situation. Jain is solid and stronger than she thinks. I really hope that these two are able to marry at some point!
A brilliant book that takes the series to the next level. Can't wait for the next one.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
August 11, 2016