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Acanthea Grimscythe (300 KP) rated Eden Lake (2008) in Movies
May 12, 2018
Contains spoilers, click to show
My boyfriend and I watched Eden Lake the other night, and I actually enjoyed it. With delightfully brutal, cringe-worthy scenes, it’s definitely a film I’ll watch again. It encompasses the typical romantic getaway gone wrong, but it does so with a disturbing beauty you can only find in a horror movie.
What can possibly go wrong when you piss off a bunch of angsty teenagers in the middle of nowhere? As Jenny and Steve, the aforementioned vacationing young couple, learn, a lot. After Steve accidentally kills the gang leader’s dog, all hell breaks loose.
It’s the scenes of death and torture that really give this film its rating. When my boyfriend warned me about how twisted some of the scenes were, “WTF” wasn’t how I expected to react. The age-old, unspoken rule about killing children definitely doesn’t apply here. It’s gritty and jaw-dropping, and perfect for fans of campy horror films.
It should be noted that this film comes without a happy ending–for anyone. That fact alone played a major role in my rating. I’m sick of seeing films where characters get out of an unlikely situation and go on with their lives; Eden Lake, on the hand, doesn’t follow that cliché. It does, however, rely a bit too heavily on coincidence and for that, I give it a rating of 4 out of 5.
What can possibly go wrong when you piss off a bunch of angsty teenagers in the middle of nowhere? As Jenny and Steve, the aforementioned vacationing young couple, learn, a lot. After Steve accidentally kills the gang leader’s dog, all hell breaks loose.
It’s the scenes of death and torture that really give this film its rating. When my boyfriend warned me about how twisted some of the scenes were, “WTF” wasn’t how I expected to react. The age-old, unspoken rule about killing children definitely doesn’t apply here. It’s gritty and jaw-dropping, and perfect for fans of campy horror films.
It should be noted that this film comes without a happy ending–for anyone. That fact alone played a major role in my rating. I’m sick of seeing films where characters get out of an unlikely situation and go on with their lives; Eden Lake, on the hand, doesn’t follow that cliché. It does, however, rely a bit too heavily on coincidence and for that, I give it a rating of 4 out of 5.
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Blackhat (2015) in Movies
Feb 10, 2019
Terribly dull
I’ve had this film on my Sky box now for well over 2 years and I’ve never felt in the right mood to watch it. Due to changing over my Sky box, I’m now having to watch everything I’ve got recorded and I’ve now found out first hand why I’ve been avoiding watching this film for the past few years.
It is so terribly dull and stupid that it could barely hold my attention. Whilst I find the general subject of hacking quite interesting, this film has made it look so terribly boring. I’m also not the biggest fan of Michael Mann’s style and this is definitely not his best work. The few fight scenes could have been good but were spoilt by dodgy camera work, and the music is oddly overly dramatic and misjudged, and doesn’t fit in with the story at all. The plot itself is just convoluted and silly, and jumps all over the place. It also has the most pointless and unbelievable romantic subplot I’ve seen in quite a while. The entire film is just completely disinteresting and badly underused a very talented cast - I really don’t know what Viola Davis was doing in this. Unless you want to be bored for over 2 hours, I’d highly recommend avoiding this one.
It is so terribly dull and stupid that it could barely hold my attention. Whilst I find the general subject of hacking quite interesting, this film has made it look so terribly boring. I’m also not the biggest fan of Michael Mann’s style and this is definitely not his best work. The few fight scenes could have been good but were spoilt by dodgy camera work, and the music is oddly overly dramatic and misjudged, and doesn’t fit in with the story at all. The plot itself is just convoluted and silly, and jumps all over the place. It also has the most pointless and unbelievable romantic subplot I’ve seen in quite a while. The entire film is just completely disinteresting and badly underused a very talented cast - I really don’t know what Viola Davis was doing in this. Unless you want to be bored for over 2 hours, I’d highly recommend avoiding this one.
I love Christmas, and I love a good cozy mystery and this book has both! Ms. Griep has talented hands and created a story that not only captured me instantly, but kept me hooked on this book the entire time. Her twists and turns, her characters, her messages woven through out the book, truly made for a wonderful, one sitting read!
Clara and Ben are chiseled wonderfully for their roles. Clara, stood up at the altar, and Ben, the one who caused the pain. I wanted to throttle Ben a time or two but if he wasn't the way he was, I wouldn't have loved the story half as much! These two come to life among the walls of Bleakly Manor and the story unfolds in a most fascinating way!
I definitely recommend this book to all who want a wonderful, clean romantic story, that is pieced together among a Christmas mystery. It's 4 star worthy and one of my favorite Christmas stories of 2017! I am looking forward to adding the print version to my keeper shelf and to reading more amazing books like this in the future from the talented Michelle Griep! Bravo!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Clara and Ben are chiseled wonderfully for their roles. Clara, stood up at the altar, and Ben, the one who caused the pain. I wanted to throttle Ben a time or two but if he wasn't the way he was, I wouldn't have loved the story half as much! These two come to life among the walls of Bleakly Manor and the story unfolds in a most fascinating way!
I definitely recommend this book to all who want a wonderful, clean romantic story, that is pieced together among a Christmas mystery. It's 4 star worthy and one of my favorite Christmas stories of 2017! I am looking forward to adding the print version to my keeper shelf and to reading more amazing books like this in the future from the talented Michelle Griep! Bravo!
*Cafinated Reads received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit Blog Tours and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Midge (525 KP) rated Rosie's Travelling Tea Shop in Books
Mar 28, 2019
A Light & Easy Read
“Rosie’s Travelling Tea Shop” by Rebecca Raisin is a lovely, light read. When you have just discovered that you have a husband who is a cheat, what a wonderful way to start life over by going travelling in a camper-van. I thought it was great that Rosie made herself some new friends along the way, as well as earning some money at music and food festivals.
I delighted in this quirky, fun story. There were many laugh-out-loud moments and it was wonderful getting to meet all of the characters, although I did not particularly have a favourite.
I especially loved the idea of owning a pink camper-van like Rosie’s, and a fuchsia pink one at that - so unique and off-the-wall. Also worth a mention are some of the references to delicious culinary delights such as the spotted dick, and the Turkish delight butter-cream cupcakes or some of the more suspect ones like the wheat-grass smoothie or the Dijon tofu.
This fantastic book has left me keen to go touring and travelling and I strongly recommend giving this wonderfully uplifting romantic story a whirl!
{Thank you to #NetGalley and HQ Digital for the free copy of #RosiesTravellingTeaShop and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
I delighted in this quirky, fun story. There were many laugh-out-loud moments and it was wonderful getting to meet all of the characters, although I did not particularly have a favourite.
I especially loved the idea of owning a pink camper-van like Rosie’s, and a fuchsia pink one at that - so unique and off-the-wall. Also worth a mention are some of the references to delicious culinary delights such as the spotted dick, and the Turkish delight butter-cream cupcakes or some of the more suspect ones like the wheat-grass smoothie or the Dijon tofu.
This fantastic book has left me keen to go touring and travelling and I strongly recommend giving this wonderfully uplifting romantic story a whirl!
{Thank you to #NetGalley and HQ Digital for the free copy of #RosiesTravellingTeaShop and for giving me the opportunity to provide an honest review.}
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Jackson's Trust (Fourth Down, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have not read any of the authors previous works, nor do I usually read sports romances. I requested this novel because I couldnt get over how hot the cover was. With a cover like that, it has to be good right? Right! I was definitely not disappointed.
First of all, I know nothing about sports so I was praying there wasnt a lot of terms I didnt understand. I was pleased that this was one of those novels that didnt leave nonsports fan in the dark. I loathe the trope of the man not liking commitment (for whatever reason), but I liked Jackson so much, I didnt even notice. Reading his interactions were both humorous and pleased the romantic in me.
Duke has an easy style that makes her writing a pleasure to read. I felt that I didnt have to force myself to be interested nor did I struggle to make it through. There were some twists, I guess, but I wasnt surprised by them. In fact, Leilas secret was kind of a joke.
If you are looking for a heart melting read that will have you both cursing and laughing out loud, then I suggest this novel to you.
I have not read any of the authors previous works, nor do I usually read sports romances. I requested this novel because I couldnt get over how hot the cover was. With a cover like that, it has to be good right? Right! I was definitely not disappointed.
First of all, I know nothing about sports so I was praying there wasnt a lot of terms I didnt understand. I was pleased that this was one of those novels that didnt leave nonsports fan in the dark. I loathe the trope of the man not liking commitment (for whatever reason), but I liked Jackson so much, I didnt even notice. Reading his interactions were both humorous and pleased the romantic in me.
Duke has an easy style that makes her writing a pleasure to read. I felt that I didnt have to force myself to be interested nor did I struggle to make it through. There were some twists, I guess, but I wasnt surprised by them. In fact, Leilas secret was kind of a joke.
If you are looking for a heart melting read that will have you both cursing and laughing out loud, then I suggest this novel to you.
Erika Kehlet (21 KP) rated Rest in Peach (Georgia Peach Mystery #2) in Books
Feb 21, 2018
What a sweet treat! This was my first Georgia Peach mystery, and I really enjoyed it. The story and the setting just ooze southern charm. Nola Mae Harper is working hard to get her Peachy Keen shop ready to open on time when a murder occurs in town, and her best friend is the prime suspect. She knows the safe thing to do is to stay out of police business, but will the sheriff really look any farther with such a convenient suspect at hand? When it seems that she wont, Nola and her group of friends get together to try save Ginnys reputation, the Peach Cotillion, and a romantic relationship or two.
Nola, Hattie, and Ginny are an engaging group of friends with very individual, believable personalities, and there were enough suspects and clues in this mystery to keep me guessing right up to the end.
This is book #2 in the series. While I think it might have been nice to know a little more about Nolas first case, since she refers to it occasionally during the story, you dont need to have read book #1 to enjoy this one.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Nola, Hattie, and Ginny are an engaging group of friends with very individual, believable personalities, and there were enough suspects and clues in this mystery to keep me guessing right up to the end.
This is book #2 in the series. While I think it might have been nice to know a little more about Nolas first case, since she refers to it occasionally during the story, you dont need to have read book #1 to enjoy this one.
NOTE: I received a free copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated Double Dose (Research & Desire, #4) in Books
Jul 10, 2018
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
This is the first Katie Allen book that I have read. It is also the 4th in the series. When it comes to romantic suspenses I crave a good plot line and good characters, this book didn't give me what I wanted. The idea behind this book was extremely intriguing. I love the idea of a kidnapped damsel who falls for the not so bad guy plot.
Unfortunately, this book fell a little flat for me. I want to get to know the characters better. Daphne, has the classic "I'm a klutz" syndrome that most heroines have. It's a way to get women to relate to her and show that she isn't perfect but it really is over used. The characters were very shallow and the backstory for them were minimal. I would have loved to have more depth and development for the main characters. It seems that there was never a moment where they weren't going to fall madly in love. It was a very cookie cutter romance.
Ultimately, I loved the idea but the execution was lacking. I think what would have made this more than a 3 star book would be better character development. This would have added an emotional attachment that would have helped when the plot was lacking.
justmissash (21 KP) rated The Nightingale in Books
Aug 23, 2018
I had never heard of Kristin Hannah before, but will be looking for other books by her. Her writing is seamless and vivid and realistic. The Nightingale is a wonderful story of two sisters, far apart in body and mind, but still connected. They lose their mother and then experience the abandonment of their father. Both women are torn, but in their own way. The story takes place in France, in a small village until the women who realize they need something different, separate, with one sister in Paris and the other in the country, during WWII. The story is a bit dramatic, but I think it is fitting. Their feelings and emotions and experiences are so real and authentic. It is definitely an emotionally engaging read. Not only is the characters so vivid but it combines their story with an accuracy of the world history around them during that period and is interesting for people like myself, who are history buffs. Both women learn to live and learn to love. It is romantic and not just in a sexually intimate way. This story is complex, passionate, engaging and captivating and will make you think and feel along with them.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
Micky Barnard (542 KP) rated A Court of Wings and Ruin in Books
Sep 15, 2018
Don't want this to be over
This was a different ride to the two previous books in the series but it delivered. The focus was strategy and war which was complex but so cleverly plotted and written. I feel this book provided consistency in quality and didn't dip like some trilogies do at this point.
There is a lighter romantic touch to ACOWAR but the depth of love is solid, desperate and tangible. Feyre has been on such a journey as a character and what a woman she has become, a woman I admire and love as a favourite character. Rhysand was wonderful and the cast of strong side characters rocked this book, namely Nesta, Cassian and others. Dare I say, I both loved and feared some of the monsters in ACOWAR and cried over others. The creatures are described so skillfully that this is fantasy that has a 3D feeling.
I'm sad on the one hand that this first trilogy instalment is over, but I'm excited about who will feature in the next three. I have hopes about who will be the main characters, however I trust Maas to deliver. I will re-read without doubt.
This was an audio listen and I was worried about the narrator change but Amanda Leigh Cobb seamlessly slipped into the role which is admirable on book three. Great narration from start to finish.
There is a lighter romantic touch to ACOWAR but the depth of love is solid, desperate and tangible. Feyre has been on such a journey as a character and what a woman she has become, a woman I admire and love as a favourite character. Rhysand was wonderful and the cast of strong side characters rocked this book, namely Nesta, Cassian and others. Dare I say, I both loved and feared some of the monsters in ACOWAR and cried over others. The creatures are described so skillfully that this is fantasy that has a 3D feeling.
I'm sad on the one hand that this first trilogy instalment is over, but I'm excited about who will feature in the next three. I have hopes about who will be the main characters, however I trust Maas to deliver. I will re-read without doubt.
This was an audio listen and I was worried about the narrator change but Amanda Leigh Cobb seamlessly slipped into the role which is admirable on book three. Great narration from start to finish.
Awix (3310 KP) rated A Star Is Born (2018) in Movies
Oct 10, 2018
The story that's been resurrected more times than Dracula is back again, this time with Bradley Cooper as troubled country-rocker Jackson Maine, and Lady Gaga as the aspiring singer-songwriter who starts off as his protege/girlfriend but whose talent threatens to eclipse his. Better bring your hankies (or some kind of absorbent cloth, anyway).
Well, the good news is that Cooper can sing and Gaga can act, so the film hangs together as a dramatic musical, but it's still probably at its best when Cooper is acting and Gaga is singing. Some of the songs are absolutely lovely, but to be quite honest, the film goes on a bit too long, especially the wallowing-in-existential-misery stuff near the end. It's also made quite clear from the opening moments that Cooper's character has problems, so the story kind of comes across as one last detour on the way down than a genuine romantic tragedy.
Still, well acted, well sung, convincing stuff: the kind of old-fashioned meaty melodrama that often does very well for itself both critically and commercially, though it may have come out a bit too early to really storm the Oscars next year. Brace yourself for a remake of The Bodyguard with Katy Perry or Taylor Swift, I shouldn't wonder.
Well, the good news is that Cooper can sing and Gaga can act, so the film hangs together as a dramatic musical, but it's still probably at its best when Cooper is acting and Gaga is singing. Some of the songs are absolutely lovely, but to be quite honest, the film goes on a bit too long, especially the wallowing-in-existential-misery stuff near the end. It's also made quite clear from the opening moments that Cooper's character has problems, so the story kind of comes across as one last detour on the way down than a genuine romantic tragedy.
Still, well acted, well sung, convincing stuff: the kind of old-fashioned meaty melodrama that often does very well for itself both critically and commercially, though it may have come out a bit too early to really storm the Oscars next year. Brace yourself for a remake of The Bodyguard with Katy Perry or Taylor Swift, I shouldn't wonder.