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David McK (3175 KP) rated Finding Dory (2016) in Movies
May 26, 2020 (Updated Jul 2, 2023)
"Just keep swimming … just keep swimming …"
Set after Finding Nemo, this see's Ellen DeGeneres Blue Tang - the undisputed start (for me, at least, of that earlier movie) in her own headline movie, when - due to events - she suddenly remembers her family and sets off on a quest to reunite with the same.
As always with Pixar, impeccably animated with a strong message about the importance of family (even 'found' family), this - perhaps - suffers somewhat in comparison with Finding Nemo in that we've been there, done that.
That, and the fact that the Human world (seemingly, or at least, that's it how it felt to me!) plays a larger role than in the previous.
Gotta love Dory's friend Sigourney Weaver, though!
Set after Finding Nemo, this see's Ellen DeGeneres Blue Tang - the undisputed start (for me, at least, of that earlier movie) in her own headline movie, when - due to events - she suddenly remembers her family and sets off on a quest to reunite with the same.
As always with Pixar, impeccably animated with a strong message about the importance of family (even 'found' family), this - perhaps - suffers somewhat in comparison with Finding Nemo in that we've been there, done that.
That, and the fact that the Human world (seemingly, or at least, that's it how it felt to me!) plays a larger role than in the previous.
Gotta love Dory's friend Sigourney Weaver, though!
Gareth von Kallenbach (965 KP) rated Letters to Juliet (2010) in Movies
Aug 8, 2019
Sophie’s life is heading in a good direction. She is the best fact checker at the New Yorker, engaged to an up-and-coming chef and is headed on a romantic trip to Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s most famous play, Romeo and Juliet. But when Sophie discovers a multi-decade old letter written to Juliet she finds herself on a new and exciting adventure in the spirit of true love.
The film hitches its wagon on rising star Amanda Seyfried as the leading lady, playing romantically-inclined heroine Sophie. Amanda plays opposite Christopher Egan as Charlie, a pessimistic and overly protective grandson of Claire, a romantic adventurer and ideal parental-figure, played by the ever-enchanting Vanessa Redgrave.
It was easy to expect that this would be the same old American twenty-something in love tale, but I was unexpectedly surprised by the depth and honesty in “Letters to Juliet”. While it is much more a love story than a comedy, the film tackles a number of the usual subjects –love, loss, and destiny– in new ways. Throughout the film are touching scenes that blend laughter and keen, realistic emotion, without the all too familiar awkward result.
And it is hard not to smile while watching “Letters to Juliet”. The infusion of a love story mixes well with the films other themes: the importance of family and the value of cross-cultural perspectives. These complex themes support the romantic story so well that the experience is less like a fantasy and more akin to a well-layered tale told by a close friend. Mix in the stunning landscape of Italy and “Letters to Juliet” becomes a magically honest story about the quest for true love.
Filled with quality acting, romance, and many kinds of love while speaking across generations and cultural viewpoints, “Letters to Juliet” manages to pull at the heartstrings and share an inspiring and uplifting tale.
The film hitches its wagon on rising star Amanda Seyfried as the leading lady, playing romantically-inclined heroine Sophie. Amanda plays opposite Christopher Egan as Charlie, a pessimistic and overly protective grandson of Claire, a romantic adventurer and ideal parental-figure, played by the ever-enchanting Vanessa Redgrave.
It was easy to expect that this would be the same old American twenty-something in love tale, but I was unexpectedly surprised by the depth and honesty in “Letters to Juliet”. While it is much more a love story than a comedy, the film tackles a number of the usual subjects –love, loss, and destiny– in new ways. Throughout the film are touching scenes that blend laughter and keen, realistic emotion, without the all too familiar awkward result.
And it is hard not to smile while watching “Letters to Juliet”. The infusion of a love story mixes well with the films other themes: the importance of family and the value of cross-cultural perspectives. These complex themes support the romantic story so well that the experience is less like a fantasy and more akin to a well-layered tale told by a close friend. Mix in the stunning landscape of Italy and “Letters to Juliet” becomes a magically honest story about the quest for true love.
Filled with quality acting, romance, and many kinds of love while speaking across generations and cultural viewpoints, “Letters to Juliet” manages to pull at the heartstrings and share an inspiring and uplifting tale.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Prison of Hope ( Hellequin Chronicles book 4) in Books
Oct 18, 2022
190 of 230
Kindle
Prison of Hope ( Hellequin Chronicles book 4)
By Steve McHugh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Long ago, Olympian gods imprisoned the demon Pandora in a human—Hope—creating a creature whose only purpose was chaos and death. Remorseful, the gods locked Pandora away in Tartarus, ruled by Hades.
Now, centuries later, Pandora escapes. Nate Garrett, a 1,600-year-old sorcerer, is sent to recapture her and discovers her plan to disrupt the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, killing thousands in a misplaced quest for vengeance.
Fast forward to modern-day Berlin, where Nate has agreed to act as guardian on a school trip to Germany to visit Hades at the entrance to Tartarus. When Titan King Cronus becomes the second ever to escape Tartarus, Nate is forced to track him down and bring him back, to avert a civil war between those who would use his escape to gain power.
I love love love this series! This has to be the best one yet. I really like the way the author uses the Greek gods and mythology as well as bringing all the myths and legends into the story without it getting silly. Nate is just brilliant I love his relationship with Tommy and other characters. I like the back story of Nate’s life that runs along with whatever he’s facing in current times. It’s such a good series.
Kindle
Prison of Hope ( Hellequin Chronicles book 4)
By Steve McHugh
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Long ago, Olympian gods imprisoned the demon Pandora in a human—Hope—creating a creature whose only purpose was chaos and death. Remorseful, the gods locked Pandora away in Tartarus, ruled by Hades.
Now, centuries later, Pandora escapes. Nate Garrett, a 1,600-year-old sorcerer, is sent to recapture her and discovers her plan to disrupt the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games, killing thousands in a misplaced quest for vengeance.
Fast forward to modern-day Berlin, where Nate has agreed to act as guardian on a school trip to Germany to visit Hades at the entrance to Tartarus. When Titan King Cronus becomes the second ever to escape Tartarus, Nate is forced to track him down and bring him back, to avert a civil war between those who would use his escape to gain power.
I love love love this series! This has to be the best one yet. I really like the way the author uses the Greek gods and mythology as well as bringing all the myths and legends into the story without it getting silly. Nate is just brilliant I love his relationship with Tommy and other characters. I like the back story of Nate’s life that runs along with whatever he’s facing in current times. It’s such a good series.
Chris Hooker (419 KP) rated White Hart (White Hart, #1) in Books
Jan 12, 2018
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review.
I love a well written fantasy novel which is what [White Hart] by [Sarah Dalton] could be described as. The story of Mae, a young poor girl, who also happens to have magical abilities. She hides these so she will not be forced to marry the prince. When tragedy strikes she ends up on a quest with the prince.
I thought the characters were well developed and the plot was good. There could have been more description of the setting since it is a magical land. I liked that Mae was not a weakling but she also lacked confidence due to lack of experience.
I have started reading [Red Palace] the second book which I also received free for review.
I love a well written fantasy novel which is what [White Hart] by [Sarah Dalton] could be described as. The story of Mae, a young poor girl, who also happens to have magical abilities. She hides these so she will not be forced to marry the prince. When tragedy strikes she ends up on a quest with the prince.
I thought the characters were well developed and the plot was good. There could have been more description of the setting since it is a magical land. I liked that Mae was not a weakling but she also lacked confidence due to lack of experience.
I have started reading [Red Palace] the second book which I also received free for review.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated The Quest of All Ages in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I already wrote a review for this once but I dont know what happened to it. I feel that this one wont be nearly as good as the first especially since I am aggravated that I have to retype it. I will try to capture some of the first one though.
When I requested this from NetGalley, it was because I am a fairytale/mythology buff who can never have enough novels about it. I enjoyed the authors interpretation because she stayed true to the originally mythology while making it her own. What I loved, however, was that it was not a modern telling, i.e. about the gods children or gods themselves in present day. Thats a trope I dont enjoy.
Maha Devi Li Ra La masterly weaves a fantastical story of self-discovery with dynamic characters. It is story about adventure and coming into oneself, discovering ones self. It was a powerful journey that had me on the edge of my seat and rooting for love in way I havent in a long time. I think it is because I have read erotica for so long where the couples have been hurt and jaded by the time they reach other. The love in Quest is fresh and dewy eyed like younger lovers falling in love for the first time. It has that hopefulness that young love seems to draw from.
Definitely a feel good novel. While it did not blow my mind, I walked away feeling optimistic and lighter.
When I requested this from NetGalley, it was because I am a fairytale/mythology buff who can never have enough novels about it. I enjoyed the authors interpretation because she stayed true to the originally mythology while making it her own. What I loved, however, was that it was not a modern telling, i.e. about the gods children or gods themselves in present day. Thats a trope I dont enjoy.
Maha Devi Li Ra La masterly weaves a fantastical story of self-discovery with dynamic characters. It is story about adventure and coming into oneself, discovering ones self. It was a powerful journey that had me on the edge of my seat and rooting for love in way I havent in a long time. I think it is because I have read erotica for so long where the couples have been hurt and jaded by the time they reach other. The love in Quest is fresh and dewy eyed like younger lovers falling in love for the first time. It has that hopefulness that young love seems to draw from.
Definitely a feel good novel. While it did not blow my mind, I walked away feeling optimistic and lighter.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2057 KP) rated Granite in Books
Mar 9, 2018
This picture book introduces us to Granite, one of the dogs used by Iditarod Trail racer Susan Butcher in her races in the 1980’s. Granite was the runt of his litter, and but Susan felt a bond to him. Will that bond be enough to win races? What else might the pair endure on their quest to win?
This is a heartwarming picture book for dog lovers of all ages. It captures the love between Susan and Granite perfect with pictures and words. It’s hard not to smile as you read and be concerned for the pair when they face danger. The fact that it is based on a real story makes it all the more memorable.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/09/book-review-granite-by-susan-butcher.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This is a heartwarming picture book for dog lovers of all ages. It captures the love between Susan and Granite perfect with pictures and words. It’s hard not to smile as you read and be concerned for the pair when they face danger. The fact that it is based on a real story makes it all the more memorable.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/09/book-review-granite-by-susan-butcher.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Andrew Kennedy (199 KP) rated Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) in Movies
Jul 17, 2019
I love the Python team it's a throw up which is best this or Life of Brian.
King Arthur (Graham Chapman) is given a quest from God to retrieve the Holy Grail. Hilarity and irrelevance abound follow.
Wether it's Palin's Sir Galahad and his trip to castle Anthrax, Idles Sir Robin bravely running away or Cleese as Sir Lancelot slaughtering half a wedding in a rescue attempt.
Scenes like The Black Knight, The knights who say NI, Tim the Enchanter and the amazing Scene 24 have all become ingrained into fans minds.
Even the opening credits are source of humour plus typical little Python-esque animations.
The ending is crazy but it only befits the film that has come before it. You never would have thought there was so much to learn about Swallows, African or European.
King Arthur (Graham Chapman) is given a quest from God to retrieve the Holy Grail. Hilarity and irrelevance abound follow.
Wether it's Palin's Sir Galahad and his trip to castle Anthrax, Idles Sir Robin bravely running away or Cleese as Sir Lancelot slaughtering half a wedding in a rescue attempt.
Scenes like The Black Knight, The knights who say NI, Tim the Enchanter and the amazing Scene 24 have all become ingrained into fans minds.
Even the opening credits are source of humour plus typical little Python-esque animations.
The ending is crazy but it only befits the film that has come before it. You never would have thought there was so much to learn about Swallows, African or European.
Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated The Buried Giant in Books
Jan 3, 2018
An unusual melancholic adventure
Beautifully written with a typical Kazuo Ishiguro unreliable narrator, this novel however, is not about self-delusion this time. It's a collective memory loss, a post-Arthurian quest that questions the value of remembering. It is written as a fable so the style may appear stilted and formal, and it may not be everyone's cup of tea, but I found the plot beguiling.
Ishiguro ventures in the Tolkien-world of medieval fantasy in which an elderly couple, who seem to be suffering a fog of memory loss, attempt to reconnect with their son by journeying across the lands. On their way, they face dangers from opposing forces, that try to hinder their progress.
This is a powerful treatment of memories, the passage of time and the enduring love of a couple living many years together. Nothing is over-stated, even the moments of high drama. A strange collection of characters but all of them wholly believable. Overall, this book rewards patience and reflection, a devastating portrayal of love in old age and it's a fantastic metaphor for the way nations forget/remember traumatic events.
Ishiguro ventures in the Tolkien-world of medieval fantasy in which an elderly couple, who seem to be suffering a fog of memory loss, attempt to reconnect with their son by journeying across the lands. On their way, they face dangers from opposing forces, that try to hinder their progress.
This is a powerful treatment of memories, the passage of time and the enduring love of a couple living many years together. Nothing is over-stated, even the moments of high drama. A strange collection of characters but all of them wholly believable. Overall, this book rewards patience and reflection, a devastating portrayal of love in old age and it's a fantastic metaphor for the way nations forget/remember traumatic events.
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated The Watch on the Fencepost in Books
Mar 5, 2019
A WATCH THAT REVEALS MORE THAN JUST THE TIME . . . A mysterious gold watch propels 27-year-old Kathryn Frasier into a quest to prove her parents’ recent deaths were not an accident. Following a trail of cryptic clues, she encounters a remarkable cast of characters, including an actress with a talent for disguises, a politician with a dark secret, and a handsome businessman who shows a sudden romantic interest in Kathryn. Can she solve the mystery before she becomes the next victim?
My Thoughts: This is an excellent mystery that not only keeps the readers' interest but actually keeps them glued to the book. The amusing idea of the hunt for clues was fun for myself and I believe other readers will enjoy that also.
The readers will fall in love with the characters Kathryn and Cece, since they both have interesting personalities that the readers will enjoy.
This was a charming read a story of a young woman losing her parents, but gaining so much more as she learns to trust God and the people around her.
A great read for anyone, especially those who love a good mystery with a smidge of romance added in.
My Thoughts: This is an excellent mystery that not only keeps the readers' interest but actually keeps them glued to the book. The amusing idea of the hunt for clues was fun for myself and I believe other readers will enjoy that also.
The readers will fall in love with the characters Kathryn and Cece, since they both have interesting personalities that the readers will enjoy.
This was a charming read a story of a young woman losing her parents, but gaining so much more as she learns to trust God and the people around her.
A great read for anyone, especially those who love a good mystery with a smidge of romance added in.
Cori June (3033 KP) rated Dragondoom (Mithgar book #5) in Books
Aug 10, 2019
Continuing in my quest to read this series in chronological order, this is a good book to enter into the land of Mithgar. A multiple POV book. It is a "love story" (it says so in the forward" but it is really subtle about it. The story starts in the middle and goes between the past and the present or near present. About hatred, greed, racism, even foolhardy pride. Yes, it actually has dragon's as well as stone giants. Also, if you get the 2002 edition you will get a glossary (it has spoilers), translation of words and phrases, and a partial calendar (again spoilers), so it's kind of cool seeing what the translation of the native languages.
Now that I'm older then when I first read this I admit I at times read it in a melodramatic way. but still a good read if a little long winded at times. The main characters are the Warrior woman Elyn and Dwarf Thork, with Elyn's twin Elgo as a not quite main but very important character.
This book had love, war, quests, and well almost everything. A fun read.
Now that I'm older then when I first read this I admit I at times read it in a melodramatic way. but still a good read if a little long winded at times. The main characters are the Warrior woman Elyn and Dwarf Thork, with Elyn's twin Elgo as a not quite main but very important character.
This book had love, war, quests, and well almost everything. A fun read.