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Sarah (7800 KP) rated X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014) in Movies
Jun 19, 2019
One of the best X-Men films
The X-Men have always been some of my favourite superheroes, and I loved the original 2 films (and I refuse to mention The Last Stand). Whilst First Class was a nice introduction to the younger versions of the X-Men, it wasnt great. X-Men really needed this next film to be something special, and for me it really is.
Bryan Singer really knows how to work his magic when it comes to the X-Men films and you can tell. He did it with the originals and he did it with this too. The idea to work a plot involving the original X-Men and the younger versions is a genius idea and gives us the best of both worlds. Admittedly I do wish they'd shown us more of the originals, but I dont think my heart could take much seeing them get picked off by the Sentinels.
Putting Wolverine into this works really well and new addition Quicksilver gets possibly the best scene of the entire film. And we've also got Magneto being his usual sneaky self with some great scenes of him really using his powers. Don't get me wrong the actual minute details in the plot are a little bit ridiculous and farfetched but this can be ignored for the most part as it's just an all round enjoyable film. Just a shame it's the last decent X-Men film that they've made.
Bryan Singer really knows how to work his magic when it comes to the X-Men films and you can tell. He did it with the originals and he did it with this too. The idea to work a plot involving the original X-Men and the younger versions is a genius idea and gives us the best of both worlds. Admittedly I do wish they'd shown us more of the originals, but I dont think my heart could take much seeing them get picked off by the Sentinels.
Putting Wolverine into this works really well and new addition Quicksilver gets possibly the best scene of the entire film. And we've also got Magneto being his usual sneaky self with some great scenes of him really using his powers. Don't get me wrong the actual minute details in the plot are a little bit ridiculous and farfetched but this can be ignored for the most part as it's just an all round enjoyable film. Just a shame it's the last decent X-Men film that they've made.
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated The Crown (The Selection, #5) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Oh...My...I can not tell you the crazy rollercoaster ride of emotions Kiera Cass took me on in this series. Now that it is all said and done and I look back, I am SO glad I finally picked up The Selection. I will say that the first three books (America's selection) are the BEST part of the series. I totally binge read them and would probably do so again in the future. However, I was disappointed with the Eadlyn's selection story. The Heir and The Crown have a very different feel than the first three books. Eadlyn is a very different person than America and that is to be expected. I did enjoy watching Eadlyn mature and become her own person. She has a strength that I admire. And I was happy with the final result of her selection, however the story as a whole felt a little too forced. There was a lot of fluff that wasn't wholly necessary. That being said, although I think it would have been better to end the series with The One, it was good to read the continuing stories of so many characters from the original books. I doubt I will read The Heir and The Crown again, but the first three book of The Selection series are among my favorite books I have read this year. Overall, I did not enjoy The Crown...It fell very short of my expectations.
David McK (3600 KP) rated The Last Hero (Discworld, #27; Rincewind #7) in Books
Jan 28, 2019
<i>Fable (noun): a story about supernatural or extraordinary persons or incidents; legend: the fables of gods and heroes.
[from http://dictionary.reference.com]</i>;
This short story by Terry Pratchett ticks all those boxes with the blurb on my edition reading:
"He's been a legend in his own lifetime.
He can remember the great days of high adventure.
He can remember when a hero didn't have to worry about fences and lawyers and civilisation.
He can remember when people didn't tell you off for killing dragons.
But he can't alwyas remember, these days, where he put his teeth ...
He's not really happy about that bit.
.... He's going to climb the highest mountain in the Discworld and meet his gods. He doesn't like the way they let men grow old and die ... "
What ensues is, by the standards of Discworld novels, perhaps a return to the earlier novels that featured the gods (and Cohen the Barbarian) more prominently than the more recent. Also involved prominently in this story are the Wiz(z)ard Rincewind, Captain Carrot and Leonard of Quirm, with that latter character given more of a role than in the few previous he has been in (excepting, maybe, Jingo).
This is also unusual in that it is an illustrated story: whereas I've always found illustrations to be inferior to imagination when it comes to visualising events and characters, it does add an extra layer to this story - particularly where it concerns Leonard's creations.
[from http://dictionary.reference.com]</i>;
This short story by Terry Pratchett ticks all those boxes with the blurb on my edition reading:
"He's been a legend in his own lifetime.
He can remember the great days of high adventure.
He can remember when a hero didn't have to worry about fences and lawyers and civilisation.
He can remember when people didn't tell you off for killing dragons.
But he can't alwyas remember, these days, where he put his teeth ...
He's not really happy about that bit.
.... He's going to climb the highest mountain in the Discworld and meet his gods. He doesn't like the way they let men grow old and die ... "
What ensues is, by the standards of Discworld novels, perhaps a return to the earlier novels that featured the gods (and Cohen the Barbarian) more prominently than the more recent. Also involved prominently in this story are the Wiz(z)ard Rincewind, Captain Carrot and Leonard of Quirm, with that latter character given more of a role than in the few previous he has been in (excepting, maybe, Jingo).
This is also unusual in that it is an illustrated story: whereas I've always found illustrations to be inferior to imagination when it comes to visualising events and characters, it does add an extra layer to this story - particularly where it concerns Leonard's creations.
Sarah (7800 KP) rated Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (1999) in Movies
Jan 29, 2019
Great music, shame about the rest
I loved Joseph when I was a child, and I haven’t seen the stage show since I was in primary school either, so I had to watch this when I saw it had been added to Netflix.
I spent the entire of this film trying to figure out if this was a stage show they’d recorded and made look like a film, or if they’d intentionally made it as a film like this. Looking it up afterwards, I’ve discovered this was a direct to video film and boy can you tell. For a purposely made film, the production values in this are really cheesy and cheap, and the costumes are pretty bad even with it being the late 90s. I also can’t stand the narrator in this, I just found her very irritating - the last scene especially. Donny Osmond is alright but his hair looks so fake I couldn’t help laughing every time there was a close up. The highlight of the cast by far is Richard Attenborough, it’s just a shame he isn't in it very much.
What saves this is the all round entertainment factor and the soundtrack. You can’t question the Lloyd Webber music, it’s truly fantastic and so varied (from country to Elvis rock) and catchy. I just wished the rest of the film lived up to this - they really should have just filmed a stage version.
I spent the entire of this film trying to figure out if this was a stage show they’d recorded and made look like a film, or if they’d intentionally made it as a film like this. Looking it up afterwards, I’ve discovered this was a direct to video film and boy can you tell. For a purposely made film, the production values in this are really cheesy and cheap, and the costumes are pretty bad even with it being the late 90s. I also can’t stand the narrator in this, I just found her very irritating - the last scene especially. Donny Osmond is alright but his hair looks so fake I couldn’t help laughing every time there was a close up. The highlight of the cast by far is Richard Attenborough, it’s just a shame he isn't in it very much.
What saves this is the all round entertainment factor and the soundtrack. You can’t question the Lloyd Webber music, it’s truly fantastic and so varied (from country to Elvis rock) and catchy. I just wished the rest of the film lived up to this - they really should have just filmed a stage version.
Faye Jeffries (1 KP) rated Bird Box (2018) in Movies
Dec 30, 2018
Underwhelmed
Contains spoilers, click to show
After the recent hype all over my social media about this film, I was extremely giddy to find myself with a few hours free after my little womb gnome had gone to bed and the fella was off to play Fifa. Finally, I could see what the drama was about.
The concept of the film is intriguing and it does get you gripped within the first 10 minutes. Similar to The Happening, sure, but the fact that it is seeing something which makes someone commit suicide rather than just being out in wind made it a bit more...tense. You know when you get the 'ohh nooo don't do that!!', you get that a lot in this film.
Sandra Bullock's performance is amazing. It's heartbreaking to see her emotionally cut herself off from the children to help them survive in the long run.
For me though, I felt like there was something missing. There wasn't much of a build up to anything because nothing really happens. It's just watching how it started and then their journey to a safe haven.
I am a bit miffed at the ending. So basically, they grew plants above the open spaces and that's enough? Why not just tell them that little golden nugget over the radio.
I won't watch it again but I did enjoy it, just left feeling a bit frustrated.
The concept of the film is intriguing and it does get you gripped within the first 10 minutes. Similar to The Happening, sure, but the fact that it is seeing something which makes someone commit suicide rather than just being out in wind made it a bit more...tense. You know when you get the 'ohh nooo don't do that!!', you get that a lot in this film.
Sandra Bullock's performance is amazing. It's heartbreaking to see her emotionally cut herself off from the children to help them survive in the long run.
For me though, I felt like there was something missing. There wasn't much of a build up to anything because nothing really happens. It's just watching how it started and then their journey to a safe haven.
I am a bit miffed at the ending. So basically, they grew plants above the open spaces and that's enough? Why not just tell them that little golden nugget over the radio.
I won't watch it again but I did enjoy it, just left feeling a bit frustrated.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated The Glass Castle in Books
Jun 21, 2019
Jeannette Walls led a very interesting life. Living most of it way below the poverty line and "doing the skedaddle" all over the country. Her parents didn't care much for rules or parenting. The book starts off with Jeannette burning herself at the age of 3 making herself food to eat. What three year old is using a stove? The book continues through her life with some outrageous and mind blowing events. This was a very interesting story that made me hug my kids a little tighter and be thankful for the family I have.
I have heard a lot about this book and the movie, and I wanted to read it before I saw it. What really grabbed my attention during this book was the blatant disregard Rex & Rose Mary for their children was incredible.
I love that Ms. Walls had the courage to tell her story. She was able to make something of her life, despite the circumstances that she was raised in. Some people may see the situation and decide this is the life they have and they can't do anything better. Forced to grow up before she had to and become a parent when hers didn't seem to care that their children had no food to eat. Even though both of her parents were educated, they were more of free thinkers letting the world take them through life.
I enjoyed this book.
I have heard a lot about this book and the movie, and I wanted to read it before I saw it. What really grabbed my attention during this book was the blatant disregard Rex & Rose Mary for their children was incredible.
I love that Ms. Walls had the courage to tell her story. She was able to make something of her life, despite the circumstances that she was raised in. Some people may see the situation and decide this is the life they have and they can't do anything better. Forced to grow up before she had to and become a parent when hers didn't seem to care that their children had no food to eat. Even though both of her parents were educated, they were more of free thinkers letting the world take them through life.
I enjoyed this book.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Cult Classic by Fiona Grey in Music
Jun 21, 2019
Fiona Grey is an LA-based singer-songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. Not too long ago, she released a music video for her “Saviour” single featuring Emma Cole.
The Sean Berger-music video was choreographed by Kevin Stea (Madonna, Michael Jackson).
The visuals are an ode to Felini, Marie Antoinette, and the dark and dreamy black and white films of the ‘60s.
‘Saviour’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and charismatic instrumentation flavored with an indie-alternative aroma.
Also, the likable tune is featured on Fiona Grey’s latest EP, entitled, “Cult Classic”.
“Each song has its own identity and story it wants to tell.” – Fiona Grey
‘Cult Classic’ vocalizes cultural issues and expresses Fiona Grey’s vulnerability. Also, it highlights her anger towards the world we are living in and her desires for the world we are shaping.
Grammy Award-Winning Mike Schuppan (Paramore, M83, Ziggy Marley) produced the 6-track project. Also, Dave Cooley (Fitz & The Tantrums, Stone Temple Pilots) mastered it.
“There is a lot about living in a pop culture centered world that we deem as ‘normal behavior’. Also, I hope that the music can remind the listener that this follower-centric, alternate persona universe we live in is all temporary happiness.” – Fiona Grey
Fiona Grey draws inspiration from the world of Hollywood, it’s unrealistic expectations and the vices that people use as a form of escapism.
She hopes her music will help listeners aim to be the purest and honest versions of themselves.
The Sean Berger-music video was choreographed by Kevin Stea (Madonna, Michael Jackson).
The visuals are an ode to Felini, Marie Antoinette, and the dark and dreamy black and white films of the ‘60s.
‘Saviour’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and charismatic instrumentation flavored with an indie-alternative aroma.
Also, the likable tune is featured on Fiona Grey’s latest EP, entitled, “Cult Classic”.
“Each song has its own identity and story it wants to tell.” – Fiona Grey
‘Cult Classic’ vocalizes cultural issues and expresses Fiona Grey’s vulnerability. Also, it highlights her anger towards the world we are living in and her desires for the world we are shaping.
Grammy Award-Winning Mike Schuppan (Paramore, M83, Ziggy Marley) produced the 6-track project. Also, Dave Cooley (Fitz & The Tantrums, Stone Temple Pilots) mastered it.
“There is a lot about living in a pop culture centered world that we deem as ‘normal behavior’. Also, I hope that the music can remind the listener that this follower-centric, alternate persona universe we live in is all temporary happiness.” – Fiona Grey
Fiona Grey draws inspiration from the world of Hollywood, it’s unrealistic expectations and the vices that people use as a form of escapism.
She hopes her music will help listeners aim to be the purest and honest versions of themselves.
Otway93 (580 KP) rated Star Wars: Episode IX - The Rise of Skywalker (2019) in Movies
Dec 19, 2019
Acting (4 more)
CGI
Script
Predictable
Characters
A rushed ending to something special.
Well, this film has felt like a long time coming, but the disappointment took far less time.
Poor acting and poor CGI work make this film bad enough, but with a predictable plot and an awful script, it makes it in my opinion the worst Star Wars film ever made (so far), and made me wish I'd stayed at home and watched Attack of the Clones.
Daisy Ridley's acting was pretty poor in the more dramatic moments, and the CGI, particularly bad during large explosions, detracted from the feeling a Star Wars film usually brings. I'm talking Sharknado level CGI at some points, but at least that was supposed to be bad...
The characters, some of them turning out to be a completely pointless addition to the trilogy, learn absolutely nothing about themselves, with a couple of exceptions of course, but all of them with poorly written characteristics.
The ending is of course predictable, as it was always going to be realistically, but as for that, I'll let you guys judge for yourself!
The only redeeming feature is a nice little twist or two, but I'm obviously not going to tell you that!
Of course, some things are better the second time around, so maybe I'll watch again when the DVD is released and update my review...or not update it if that be the case.
Poor acting and poor CGI work make this film bad enough, but with a predictable plot and an awful script, it makes it in my opinion the worst Star Wars film ever made (so far), and made me wish I'd stayed at home and watched Attack of the Clones.
Daisy Ridley's acting was pretty poor in the more dramatic moments, and the CGI, particularly bad during large explosions, detracted from the feeling a Star Wars film usually brings. I'm talking Sharknado level CGI at some points, but at least that was supposed to be bad...
The characters, some of them turning out to be a completely pointless addition to the trilogy, learn absolutely nothing about themselves, with a couple of exceptions of course, but all of them with poorly written characteristics.
The ending is of course predictable, as it was always going to be realistically, but as for that, I'll let you guys judge for yourself!
The only redeeming feature is a nice little twist or two, but I'm obviously not going to tell you that!
Of course, some things are better the second time around, so maybe I'll watch again when the DVD is released and update my review...or not update it if that be the case.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2395 KP) rated Sleeping with the Fishes in Books
Mar 15, 2020
Ava is the oldest daughter of Mother, and as such has been groomed to take over the leadership of Sirenia, their merfolk territory under the sea, someday. Most view Ava as aloof and bossy, but Ava will be the first to tell you she is really afraid – afraid her past will come out and afraid she will fail when the time comes. The time comes sooner than she expected when Mother is kidnapped and Ava must take over leadership immediately. Then comes word that sharks are encroaching on mermaid territory. Can Ava deal with this crisis?
This is the third novella about three mermaid sisters, and it is another fantastic tale. Ava finally gets her chance to step into the spotlight, and she fully comes alive for us. As the story unfolds, we get to see her grapple with what she has been handed and rise to the occasion. Yes, this is another fantastic coming of age story with a strong mystery to keep you turning pages. These novellas are best read in order, but there is enough background to follow Ava’s story. It’s been wonderful getting to spend some time under the sea with all three of these sisters.
NOTE: NOTE: This story, along with the stories of Ava’s sisters, are included in the Mermaid Mysteries anthology. Buy them individually or as a set, but there is no need to buy both.
This is the third novella about three mermaid sisters, and it is another fantastic tale. Ava finally gets her chance to step into the spotlight, and she fully comes alive for us. As the story unfolds, we get to see her grapple with what she has been handed and rise to the occasion. Yes, this is another fantastic coming of age story with a strong mystery to keep you turning pages. These novellas are best read in order, but there is enough background to follow Ava’s story. It’s been wonderful getting to spend some time under the sea with all three of these sisters.
NOTE: NOTE: This story, along with the stories of Ava’s sisters, are included in the Mermaid Mysteries anthology. Buy them individually or as a set, but there is no need to buy both.
Gareth von Kallenbach (980 KP) rated The Book of Life (2014) in Movies
Aug 6, 2019
The Book of Life is an animated film with some big names lending their voices to the characters.
Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna, Christina Applegate, Ice Cube, Cheech Marin, Kate del Castillo, and Ron Perlman are all part of the voice cast.
The movie had lots of movement, tons of bright colours, and great music.
The story was good, but I think maybe a bit ‘too much’ for children my sons age (6). He seemed to like it, despite some of the moments that made him uncomfortable or scared.
The tale is of good vs bad and bravado vs true courage and life long friendships.
This movie takes place in long-ago Mexico and revolves around The Day of the Dead. Two boys, one an aspiring bull fighter and guitar player named Manolo (Diego Luna) and one a would-be champion and defender of the town named Joaquin (Channing Tatum), are in love with the same girl, a feisty girl named Maria (Zoe Saldana).
We follow their life paths as the gods above, La Muerta and Xibalba, place wagers on the outcome of the love triangle.
Xibalba cheats in order to win the bet, and the remainder if the film is spent watching Manolo trying to reunite with his true love, Maria.
The movie is fast paced and the music really helps bring it together and help tell the tale.
I would give this movie 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna, Christina Applegate, Ice Cube, Cheech Marin, Kate del Castillo, and Ron Perlman are all part of the voice cast.
The movie had lots of movement, tons of bright colours, and great music.
The story was good, but I think maybe a bit ‘too much’ for children my sons age (6). He seemed to like it, despite some of the moments that made him uncomfortable or scared.
The tale is of good vs bad and bravado vs true courage and life long friendships.
This movie takes place in long-ago Mexico and revolves around The Day of the Dead. Two boys, one an aspiring bull fighter and guitar player named Manolo (Diego Luna) and one a would-be champion and defender of the town named Joaquin (Channing Tatum), are in love with the same girl, a feisty girl named Maria (Zoe Saldana).
We follow their life paths as the gods above, La Muerta and Xibalba, place wagers on the outcome of the love triangle.
Xibalba cheats in order to win the bet, and the remainder if the film is spent watching Manolo trying to reunite with his true love, Maria.
The movie is fast paced and the music really helps bring it together and help tell the tale.
I would give this movie 3.5 out of 5 stars.