Friday, May 17, 2013

Best/Worst Movie Remakes Blogfest, Ninja News, The Ghost Cover Reveal, and Cabbage/Phone Book Explained


Today is the Best/Worst Movie Remakes Blogfest! 

But first…


Ninja News


Melissa Sugar is holding a five hundred follower giveaway – and the prize is an iPad Mini! Congratulations, Melissa. See her site for details.

Don’t forget the Get Healthy Bloghop on May 29, hosted by Stephen Tremp, L. Diane Wolfe, Michael Di Gesu, and myself.


Cabbage and the Phone Book

Still wondering about those images?

Last month, Maurice commented that I could post the phone book and still get a million comments, and last week Gary commented that I could get that many comments posting a head of cabbage.


While I wouldn’t really do that to you, thought it would be fun to add them to a post and see what happened.

Oddly enough, the cabbage gathered the most comments. I guess produce is more popular!

Cover Reveal!

The Ghost (The 13th Floor series, #6)
By Christine Rains
Genre: paranormal romance
Release date: July 13th, 2013

Chiharo Black lives with six supernatural tenants in a haunted building's mysterious thirteenth floor. Of course, no one knows she's there except the cats. Being a ghost can be a bit frustrating and lonely, but it isn't as bad as her mother made it out to be...

Best/Worst Movie Remakes Blogfest! 



Hosted by me, Stephen Tremp, Livia Peterson, and Father Dragon Al.

When Hollywood runs out of ideas, they remake older films. Sometimes this works, and sometimes it fails miserably.
List the best remake you’ve ever seen and the worst.
Added bonus – list the worst and/or best song remake you’ve ever heard!

The Best Movie Remake -

I had several movies in mind – The Thomas Crown Affair, Ocean’s 11, War of the Worlds. But I had to go with one of my favorite movies:

John Carpenter’s The Thing

Have you seen the original, The Thing From Another World? Granted it’s a 1951 film, but it’s bad.

Enter John Carpenter. He created a film that is tense, atmospheric and isolated. The Thing is unlike any creature you’ve ever seen, taking the form of anyone it kills. Once it invades the Antarctic camp, no one is sure who is human and who is not. Add special effects that still hold up to this day (the film was made in 1992) and the ever-awesome Kurt Russell, and this is one creepy, powerful film.

And the 2011 prequel was just a thinly disguised lousy remake – its special effects weren’t even better!

The Worst Movie Remake –

There have been many average to below average remakes in the past few years. The one I selected is truly the bottom of the barrel.

Clash of the Titans

The original 1982 version had heart. It was also one of the last movies to showcase Ray Harryhausen’s work. It wasn’t a great movie, but something about it just really clicked. It was a throwback to the innocence of the 50’s and 60’s Sinbad movies and similar films. Classic actors such as Laurence Olivier and Burgess Meredith graced the screen, along with a pre- LA Law Harry Hamlin. Simple but a delight.

The 2010 version was the most soulless film ever. It ripped the heart right out of the story. It was all cold, empty special effects, and a cardboard cutout of Harry Hamlin could’ve done a better acting job than Sam Worthington. This was probably one of the worst movies I’ve ever seen in my life.

I’d rather watch Sharktopus again than the Clash of the Titans remake!

The Best Song Remake -
Love Lives Bleeding (live) by Dream Theater (Original version by Elton John)
Amazing cover made all the more brilliant that it’s live but sounds like it was recorded in the studio.

The Worst Song Remake -
Back in Black by Six Feet Under (Original version by AC/DC)
Normally I would rally around a metal band remaking a song, but the Cookie Monster belching out Back in Black repeatedly is hilarious.

Visit others participants for a good movie suggestion and a laugh:



Entering Melissa’s giveaway? Part of the Get Healthy Bloghop? What is your favorite or least favorite movie remake? Song remake? And what else might garner comments besides cabbage and the phone book?

I’m bugging out of work early today to see Star Trek – who’s with me?

162 comments:

Anonymous said...

As I didn't see any of the films I my can'r really say. You are such a film buff I know what you say must be spot on.

I love the Elton John song also .
I didn't put any music on mine.

I had an email from you to you on my emails still don't understand.

Yvonne.

Helena said...

Sharktopus! That was the movie I was trying to remember. I loved the description you wrote about it some time back.

I've never seen Clash of the Titans and now I know not to bother. Special effects are no substitute for character and story.

Christine's cover for The Ghost is lovely.

Tonja Drecker said...

Nope, haven't seen those films either, so I'll just have to nod. Figures that cabbage wins - produce rocks!
And I can't believe Christine already has the cover for the next one! She must have mega-fast-typing-fingers. :)

Michelle Wallace said...

Well, as expected, I don't know those movies!
But I did sign up for the blogfest... there's hope for me, after all...
The cabbage beat the phone book? Ha! Cheers to fresh produce! LOL

Writer In Transit

Rhonda Albom said...

I haven't seen any of those movies (originals or remakes). As for the get healthy, I am in, just like today's blogfest. You'll have to stop by if you want to know my picks - but they are completely different genre than yours. :)

Rhonda from Laugh Quotes

Unknown said...

Haven't seen the thing, but I know what you mean about The clash of the Titans!

Congrats to christine! Isn't she amazing, working that much that fast?

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I didn't see the remake of Clash. I heard so many bad things about it. And Ha!! I also picked the Thing as the best, lol.

Unknown said...

Dream Theater definitely did that song better than Elton. Hands down.

Mark Koopmans said...

I haven't even posted yet and I can't make my mind up is this the best or the worst Blogfest?

And, will there be a sequel?

The Angry Lurker said...

You're going to enjoy Star Trek Alex!

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Pretty sure my worst remake beats yours but we'll find out...anyway cabbage probably won because no matter what...we gotta eat. Never saw The Thing but it seems to be popular in this fest so far and in the best column. I think you'll agree that my first pick for best remake was a good one. Thanks for the blogfest and Christine has done it again with another cool book and cover.

Elise Fallson said...

OMG, I didn't even know there was a remake of Back in Black, but you're right, it's TERRIBLE. How could they do that to such an awesome song?!

Heather R. Holden said...

Haven't seen Clash of the Titans, although I do have the original in my pile of DVDs to watch. Now I know to steer clear of the remake!

dolorah said...

Meh; not a joiner this month. I miss my lurker days, so I'm lurking in several blogfests. Plenty enough of my bloggy buddies are participating, and I'm sure they will appreciate not having to reciprocate a comment on their posts. Like an agency potluck where someone HAS to be designated appetite for all the over-cooking the contributing members are filling.

My blog roll is full of people participating in the Movie Remake blogfest, and I'm hoping they are grateful for a comment they do not have to return :)

I saw The Thing From OUter Space, The Blob, and then the remake The Thing. The Thing starred Kurt Russell, and I wasn't sure I'd like it, given his YA Disney career. But Wow, what stellar acting he achieved, and I've been a fan through every one of his movies since.

I didn't watch the latest Thing remake; if they did it right they had the same storyline as the kurt Russel remake, but had different/younger actors. I'll keep my older memories.

I also watched the remake of the Clash of the Titans. I prefer the original. Both were cheesy productions; but I like the first one better. No clue why except I don't always like new and improved.

I'm getting to an age where its my prerogative to have a biased opinon; and I'm taking advantage.

LOL on your phone book and cabbage posts. I commented on both; but I commented specifically on the phone book thing as its rare to use one for me. I didn't comment specifically about cabbage because I was up and into the fridge getting a snack of raw cabbage so I didn't feel commenting on my noms was a good idea. I know, its still not, but . . .

I'd put my raw cabbage and carrots fetish for the health post; except I douse them with mayonnaise and we all know that is not a heart healthy recipe :)

Hadn't heard your best song remake though. Thanks for the introduction. I usually like your music choices. So, I'll stay away from the cookie monster version of Back in Black. Don't want to ruin a favorite song.

Alrighty then; a bit of raw cabbage is in order for a snack - phone books don't taste nearly as good, even with mayo - so I'll be meandering on now. Have a good weekend Alex.

........dhole

Shah Wharton said...

Clash of the Titans (new) wash pants! I'm all signed up and post written (pretty much) for the Health blog hop. And hey - I'm here for MMM and Celebrating memes - too early?

Anywhoo... Hugs!

Shah

shahwharton.com

Brandon Ax said...

Yep, I remember being actually scared to watch The Thing, I was sort of excited and then let down, by the 2011 eleven movie. Although honestly not many "Monster" movies are good these past couple of years.

I had such high hopes for Clash of the Titans, but have to agree with you, completely let down.

Mark Koopmans said...

Donna wins Comment Of The Day for me - that was hilarious :)

J.L. Murphey said...

Alex, waiting on Christine's book too. "The Thing" in 2011 was the third remake. First the one you mentioned "The Thing from another World," and "The Thing" 1982.

Funny about the cabbage and phone book.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - certainly Donna must win comment of the year! I commented on both too .. and I'd agree cabbage tastes better than the phone book .. but I bet there are more bright ideas in the phone book ..

Movies - well if I see The Thing - at least I'll know it's a good remake ..

Cheers Hilary

Brian Miller said...

Land of the Lost while a remake of a tv show...broke my heat...love the original, the new one is a disaster...an intentional murder of my childhood.

Unknown said...

I haven't seen the original Clash of the Titans so I can't compare the remake to the original, but it definitely wasn't a stella movie. And I have to admit I haven't seen either 'the Thing', original or remake. Yeah, I need to catch up on some classic horror :D

Tara Tyler said...

ha ha, cabbage! thats great!

and oceans 11 is my fave remake

how could i forget clash of the titans! horrible remake!

and yay for christine!!

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I actually liked the first "The Thing" (blushes!), but the second was far superior, I agree. Scary stuff.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Ah yes the remake of "The Thing" was awesome! I loved it. I did enjoy the prequel as well, though a lot of people didn't. I just enjoy even mediocre sci-fi these days since it's so rare, so the prequel was still good to me :)

Karen Baldwin said...

Funny about the cabbage. I believe I commented a few posts back. And The Thing was a great movie. Haven't seen the remake and probably won't...as I live alone in the jungle now, I don't need to have the bejeebers scared out of me.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Yvonne, no idea. Unless it was my blogfest reminder - I sent that to myself and BCC everyone else.

Rhonda, I will!

Lynda, you rock.

Anne, they just nailed it.

Mark, good question...

Fran, seeing it after lunch!

Elise, it really sucks, doesn't it?

Ray, that was bad.

Donna, you are hilarious! Phone books don't taste good with ketchup either.

Shah, no, I just forgot!!

Mark, she does. Maybe that should be a new daily contest?

Brian, I didn't even bother watching it - just knew it would stink on toast.

Tara, I almost forgot!

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

How about a talking cabbage reading the phone book?

I already have my post for the Get Healthy bloghop scheduled.

Shatner deserves a mention for worst song remake, IMO.

Heather M. Gardner said...

Wow. You're right. Our list is almost the same. We are awesome! Great minds, they say. :)

I forgot about The Thing. Good pick.

I didn't know that Dream Theater remade Love Lies Bleeding. I'll have to see if they have that on Youtube!

Great fest, Alex!

Enjoy Star Trek!

Rock on!

\m/

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

I used to need a phonebook for the driver's seat. It was so thick, I could get a much better perspective. Now, they're so think they are completely useless. Cabbage, though, is coleslaw's most reliable ingredient.

For anyone who saw mention of my giveaway at the end, sorry I'm not quite ready for one. Hopefully soon.

Hugs and appreciation, Alex.
xoRobyn

Birgit said...

What do you mean-you don't like Jmaes Arness as the big carrot? Mabe he was looking for Miss Kitty:)I have a soft spot for the orginal cos it is bad and the remake is great although it scared me alot(I had nightmares about Ultraman so...umm..well...what can I say. How can anyone remake Back in black-That sounds wrong even to think it never mind actually making it.

randi lee said...

I didn't see "The Thing's" remake, but I HATED Clash of the Titans. That's just one of those cult classics that you don't remake...if anyone ever remade Evil Dead/II/Army of Darkness. I think I'd walk into the ocean! And that cover is beautiful, love it.

farawayeyes said...

Saw Star Trek lat night - International release. You won't be disappointed.

Now off to post my 'Remake' blog bit.

Anonymous said...

Some weird goings on. Found I was not a follower of yours, soon rectified that.
Yvonne.

Donna K. Weaver said...

Good choices. What, you didn't like Marshall Dillon as the original Thing? ;)

Christine is such a busy girl, isn't she?

Christine Rains said...

Thank you so much for help with my cover reveal and for hosting me on Wednesday. I was very close to choosing Clash of the Titans for worst remake myself, but I went with Godzilla since they're daring to make another. I really hope it is good!

Al Diaz said...

So I was right in my comment about the cabbage and the phone book. Clever me. I agree with Clash of Titans. Ugly.
Congratulations to Christine!
It seems this time you're gonna beat me on seeing the movie first.

Jennie Bennett said...

I haven't seen either of those movies! Sad :(

shelly said...

I haven't seen your movies. I should've signed up for this hop. But...yeah...well...

Hugs and chocolate,
Shelly

Christine your book looks like a cool read.

mshatch said...

Completely concur about The Thing, and it still holds up today as one of my all-time favorite horror movies. Kurt Russell is awesome - actually, everyone in the movie is awesome!

Ella said...

Glad the cabbage won, lol ;D

I too agree with the Clash of the Titans. ooh, The Thing...I want to see it again-so bad, I mean good-the Kurt version!

Oh, the cabbage should make an appearance for the next blogfest :D

Oh, Star Trek weekend!!! I'm jealous-boating for me. I might go
Sunday~

Congrats to Christine!

Happy Friday :D

Laura Eno said...

I'll be with you in spirit watching Star Trek...then actually catch it when the DVD comes out.

I agree, John Carpenter's The Thing was excellent!

Yay for Christine! She's sure prolific and the cover is another knock-out.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Cabbage won? Go figure.

That Clash of the Titans remake was terrible. Soul-crushing in fact.

Yolanda Renée said...

My husband and I loved the first Clash of the Titans, and still do, another we enjoyed was, Beast Master. I think it's one of his favorites. But I did enjoy the second Clash, actually got to see it in the theater, did not like his buzz cut, but tried to see the movie separate from the first, as totally new, and liked all the special effects, even the fact that he didn't fall for the princess.
Cabbage and Phone Books, hmmm . . .

jaybird said...

Nice movie choices. I agree about the Clash of the Titans.

Congrats to Christine!

I hope you have a nice weekend Alex.

Luanne G. Smith said...

I though Oceans 11 was a great remake. Never did see The Clash of the Titans. Probably a good thing. :)

Shell Flower said...

That is hilarious that you can get comments out of cabbages and phone books. That's devotion. Glad I never saw Clash of the Titans. My favorite remake is probably the 2005 Pride and Prejudice.

Donna Shields said...

So funny you mentioned Clash of the Titans as being the worse. That was a definite runner up for me. My son and I were just talking about it last night.

Suzi said...

I always loved Clash of the Titans. It was on TV recently and I DVRed it. But then I noticed it was the remake, not the original. I just deleted it. Sometimes you just know to avoid watching a remake, so I'm glad I didn't watch it now.

Isis Rushdan said...

I caught the typo in your url just before I saved last night. At first I thought it was some kind of ninja test to see if any of us were paying attention, lol.

I loved The Thing, but never saw the original.

I know a lot of people were pissed about Clash of the Titans. I didn't think it was that bad :)

Jay Noel said...

Mmmmm....cabbage.

Clash of the Titans - I actually walked out of the theater. But then again, I loved the original. Yeah, it was cheesy, but it was still charming.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Optimistic, true there aren't many quality science fiction films out there.

Sandra, that's good! And someone did select Shanter today.

Heather, we rock.

Robyn, crap, need to remove that line...

Birgit, it did look like a giant carrot, didn't it?

Randi Lee, start walking...

Christine, you're welcome, and I have high hopes on the remake.

Al, I'll be watching it in less than three hours...

Ella, a cabbage blogfest?

LG, just avoid it.

Suzi, don't watch it - you'll be scarred for life.

Isis, I should've gone with that rather than saying I typed my own url wrong!

Bevimus said...

The Thing is getting a lot of hits today, it seems. I'm gonna have to re-watch it cause in my memory it wasn't as spectacular as everyone says.

I haven't seen the new Clash because everyone I know saw it said basically the same thing you did, so I figured I'd just skip it.

Jo said...

Love the cabbage and the phone book comments. I agree. I couldn't deal with that many comments.

As I said in Al's blog, I did see Oceans 11, both the original with Sinatra, and the newer one. Enjoyed both.

JO ON FOOD, MY TRAVELS AND A SCENT OF CHOCOLATE

Stephen Tremp said...

I forgot about the Thomas Crowne Affair. Great show! One of my favorite shows.

And let's give it up for cabbage!

Thanks for the awesome Blogfest.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I loved the John Carpenter remake of THE THING. The newer version? Ugh.

All signed up for the Get Healthy Blog Hop - even have my post ready. :)

Suze said...

Clash of the Titans! Of course. Nothing could touch the original.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I saw The Thing.

The Ghost sounds so good. Gotta get my copy.

Arlee Bird said...

I'd like to see Star Trek, but I'll wait for the DVD.

I didn't bother with Clash of the Titans. Not a favorite movie genre for me so I don't rush out to see them.

The Dream Theater cover is excellent as is the album where it appears. I'm an AC/DC anti-fan so I don't care to hear covers of any of their songs.

Lee
A Faraway View
An A to Z Co-host blog

Al Diaz said...

:P Show off. :)

Mark Means said...

I'd take cabbage over the phone book, anyday :)

I thought the new Clash of the Titans -looked- much better, effects-wise, than the original, but the original was much more fun.

Ocean's 11 made my 'best' list, too.

Cherie Reich said...

Ooo, John Carpenter's The Thing was a great movie remake.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Oh, I wish I could see Star Trek today . . . maybe my kids and I could cut school (we homeschool), but no . . . traditionally, my hubs and I see every new Star Trek together opening weekend, preferably opening night, but not tonight :(

Great picks on your movie choices, and somewhat unexpected.

Unknown said...

Not too surprisingly, I'm unfamiliar with the movie and song choices so I'll take your word for it. I need to get out more...

Deniz Bevan said...

[giggle] at the cabbage and phone book. Have you seen the Kids in the Hall skits featuring the guy with the cabbage head?
I like those 1950s SF movies because they're soooo cheesy!

Leovi said...

Well, I did not mention the cabbage the other day, so take the opportunity to comment today. You've really put a cabbage very beautiful!

Elizabeth Seckman said...

I actually enjoy reading the phone book and eating cabbage...sometimes I pair the two and have a day of it. I'm shocked you're surprised at the volume of comments. I think it's a growing underground movement.

What I remember about the original Thing (I think, I was YOUNG) was the dog dying. Made me HATE that movie. Skipped the remake. I hate movies where dogs die.

Carol Kilgore said...

LOL - I wondered about that cabbage. I thought I just missed something the week I was away like "of cabbages and kings."

Happy Weekend!

Tina said...

I knew the phone book thingie...but missed the cabbage somehow. I do prefer phonebooks to cabbage. Less gastrointestinal distress!
Wish I could bug out and go see Star Trek...but duty calls.
Definitely entering the give-away! Who doesn't want an iPad???
Worst song remake: Blinded By the Light. Manfred Man didn't get The Boss's song at all...
Tina @ Life is Good

kjmckendry said...

I didn't like Clash of the Titans either...and Sam Worthington,ughhh.

Ohh have fun at Star Trek! I hope its great! :)

Cassie Mae said...

I need a movie-cation. I haven't seen ANY of these. oy

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

That's the third time I've read a vote for The Thing. I am doing the Get Healthy bloghop.

Pat Hatt said...

Yep big big load of crap that clash of the titans bs, the thing was great too. But war of the worlds, hated that remake.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jay, it was charming!

Beverly, save yourself and skip it.

Stephen, thanks for co-hosting.

Lee, that album is awesome.

Al, less than one hour now!

Deniz, yes I have! Kids in the Hall was a great show.

Elizabeth, lots of dogs die...

Tina, you'll choke when you read Lee's post today then.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Oh, and heading out to see Star Trek soon - will catch up with everyone when I return!

Anonymous said...

D'aww, you didn't like Clash of the Titans? Maybe I liked it because of the effects. lol I remember not liking the claymation effects of the original.

I saw the '92 version of The Thing. When that man's hands went through the guy's chest, AH!!! I was done. lol

I noticed the cabbage, but I didn't stop to wonder why it was there. lol

Unknown said...

I so agree on Clash of the Titans and would have included it, but I was going overboard. LOL

The worst song remake is the entire country album dedicated to the Rolling Stones. Talk about a huge insult to one of the greatest bands ever.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

Thanks for hosting, Alex! As always, great blogfest! :)

Roland D. Yeomans said...

THE THING remains creepily horrific even after advances in special effects. It is how you tell the story that counts, right?

ilima said...

You are such a tease with your phonebook and cabbage, haha. I stressed out too much trying to come up with best and worst remakes so I never did sign up for the blogfest, but I'm having a blast reading what everyone else has posted.

L.G. Keltner said...

John Carpenter's The Thing is a legendary movie. And as always, you demonstrate your awesome taste in music!

Huntress said...

Maybe this isn't the correct definition of a re-make, but one of the best films is JJ Abrams take on the Star Trek franchise.

Going to see his new movie this weekend before all the secrets get out.


John Wiswell said...

I'm not surprised Carpenter's The Thing is dominating the hits today. That is an amazing remake that actually holds up pretty well, along with Cape Fear and The Man Who Knew Too Much.

Kimberly Gabriel said...

An IPod Mini? Must stop by now! The cabbage definitely got my attention. How horrible is this? I didn't know Ocean's 11 was a remake. Love that movie. ;)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I agree with you on your picks. Yep Clash remake was dumb and The Thing rocked the house.

D.G. Hudson said...

For garnering comments - take that mini-Alex out to see your town. We all (most of us)have a soft spot for the charming little guy dreamed up by Elise.

Or create some adventures (you need to make a mini-Cobalt) Hope I got the name right for the fighter ship that Byron piloted.

Empty Nest Insider said...

I gave my brother the original poster for Clash Of The Titans from the movie theater that I worked at. Sorry that I'll be missing out on this fun-filled blogfest. I'll try to pop in on a few before I leave.

Julie

Lisa said...

I SO want to see Star Trek and will do so ASAP! One of my favorite remakes was Against All Odds.
Okay, I commented on the cabbage but not the phone book. You could make a psychological study out of that, personality types, etc.! You could post about filing cabinets...? Or light cans...

nutschell said...

Thanks for hosting this blogfest, Alex!
Never saw the original for clash of the titans so I actually enjoyed the remake :)

Nutschell
www.thewritingnut.com

Maurice Mitchell said...

That's hilarious Alex! I remember the comment now, but I guess I was wrong. Only 3000 comments for the phone book. I entered Melissa's giveaway, so I hope I win for my son who loves our iPod. Finally, I'm glad I've never seen Clash since the original is one of my all time faves.

Hart Johnson said...

Oh, EXACTLY with you on both movie counts. The remake of The Thing is one of my favorite movies. As is THE ORIGINAL Clash of the Titans.

Favorite music remake is Seether's Careless Whisper. *nods*

Andrew Leon said...

We ate that cabbage last night.

DiscConnected said...

I snuck out of work yesterday for a long lunch to see Star Trek-it was awesome!

Talk about best remake ever....

Sherry Ellis said...

Melissa's giveaway sounds great! I haven't seen the remake of Clash of the Titans, but I'll make sure I never do!

DiscConnected said...

Alex-

Meant to comment on your choices but hit send too quick.

The Thing was a great remake-one of the few times that a remake really exceeds the original.

My choice (Heaven Can Wait) is enough of a rewrite that it is a different film, but that's what I thought of first.

As for songs, ask me in five minutes and I'll have a different answer.

But have you ever heard the "official bootleg" from Dream Theater, "Dark Side Of The Dream?"

Larry

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

Cannot wait to see Star Trek.

If you were not a little kid when you first saw the original "The Thing" which starred James Arness, you cannot possibly understand how compelling and terrifying it was. The thing was a giant (SPOILER ALERT)vegetable and it is why all us baby boomers really have to force ourselves to eat our greens.
It was my favorite scary movie at age 6. I saw it hundreds of times on Million Dollar Movie in NY.
I would like to finish this by tying the original Thing together with your photo of a cabbage (a vegetable)--this subconsiously resonated with certain other Thing fans, I bet!

PS: Kurt Russell was awesome as Snake Pliskin, in Escape from NY, a great cult movie.
Have fun storming Star Trek!!!

jean

Tony Laplume said...

Sam Worthington. I will always appreciate Clash of the Titans Redux because it features Sam. And it's harder for him to go wrong than people tend to admit. Much like the career of Gerard Butler.

Laura S. said...

I've heard great things about Into Darkness and can't wait to see it! I'm loving the reboot of the ST franchise.

Little Women (1994) is one of my favorite remakes. I was not impressed with The Karate Kid remake. I'll stick with Noriyuki Morita and Ralph Macchio in 1984!

Happy reading and writing! from Laura Marcella @ Wavy Lines

S. L. Hennessy said...

Dang it, I forgot about The Thing. I should have had that one on my list. Awesome choices and another great blogfest. Keep 'em coming.

Intangible Hearts said...

Those song remakes are spooky. I'm shopping the other day and some hip hop version of an old 70's song comes on and I'm singing it as if I'm cool and with the times. Ha!

SK Anthony said...

I haven't seen those films but I trust your opinion on them :D

Funny, now I do remember those comments about the phone book and cabbage. Go produce!

Good luck to Christina Rains.

I think this weekend I'm going to have the luck to watch both Iron Man 3 and Star Trek, cannot wait!

Author A.O. Peart said...

How come I've never seen the John Carpenter's "Thing"? On my list now!

Clash of the Titans was a sorry excuse for a movie. Enough said. Sigh.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Melissa, Stones and country do not mix!

Roland, exactly.

LG, thank you!

Huntress, reboot is close enough - and just saw it. Awesome!!!

Kimberly, that's all right.

DG, I'll see what I can do. And very close - Cosbolt.

Lisa, I could!

Maurice, glad you remembered! That's why I threatened to post the phone book pages for the Challenge next year.

Hart, good call on the song!

Larry, just got back from seeing it. Awesome film. Heaven Can Wait was Finding Mr. Jordan, wasn't it? And I know of their jam sessions (think there's hundreds?) but haven't listened to any of them.

Jean, I did see it as a kid, but I remember laughing. I guess by the early 70's I was becoming horror movie savvy. And had a great time storming the Star Trek!

Desert, that's funny.



LD Masterson said...

I totally agree on the Clash of the Titans. That remake was just plain BAD.

Lovely cover.

Kathe W. said...

Cabbage...? really...?
Well then perhaps if you post a pic of a cat sitting on a phone book with a bowl of cabbage that might provoke a few comments! hahah
Have a great weekend!

Suzanne Furness said...

Haha love cabbage, one of my favourite vegetables! Maybe we could run a vegetable themed bloghop sometime!

Have a great weekend :)

Anonymous said...

I am going to see Star Trek in the morning. I was going to put Clash of the Titans as my worst, also. I loved the original for being well original, but the remake lost the heart of the movie. Seems to be popular in remakes.

Unknown said...

"The Thing" '82 version with Kurt Russell. Yes, yes, yes! One of my 3 all-time fav movies.
I hope you have a great time at Star Trek!

Anonymous said...

Good choices, Alex. I can't remember -- is that the THING with the giant killer dog monster?

Jackie said...

I haven't seen either version of The Thing, but I like John Carpenter so I'm going to check it out. :)

Tonja said...

I liked the newer version of Clash of the Titans. The old one was so horrible.

M Pax said...

I still don't get why anyone would remake Psycho. It's perfect the way it is.

It's the Cabbageheads' influence...

You'll love the new Star Trek. It was fantastic. Saw it last night. Yeah, me, the gal who never goes to the movies.

VikLit said...

Hoping to see Star Trek in the week ;)

Johanna Garth said...

I just saw The Great Gatsby and as remakes go, I thought it was really good, but then I love Baz Luhrmann.

Li said...

Leaving work early is not an option for me - but there were a LOT of people out today, and now I'm wondering if they were in the theatre...

Unknown said...

Sharktopus. LOL. I forgot about that one. I never saw Clash...must have been really bad to top your list!

M.L. Swift, Writer

klahanie said...

Alex,

I can see right through the cover of Christine's book.

I looked for cabbages in the Yellow Pages and I was sent to your blog. How weird is that...

Well done to Laura Eno :)

The lovable Tammy interviewing your good self. Life doesn't get better than that.

Best remake of a film has to be "Bambi Meets Godzilla!"

The meaning of cabbage is defined in the fact that Brussels Sprouts are actually miniature versions of the big Cabbage...

BLOGFESTS! Somebody help me!

How could I possibly forget to visit Tammy. Thanks for all the links and that Gary dude, I have no idea what he's talking about.

Alex, great posting! Thanks for sharing! I follow your blog!

Gary.....

Powdered Toast Man said...

Do you want to see The real Thing?

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Angela, you need to watch The Thing!

Kathe, that is an idea.

Sydney, it did lose heart. And you will dig Star Trek!

Lexa, it was awesome!

Milo, yes.

Mary, I thought it was amazing.

Mike, don't bother - trust me, it was bad.

Gary, that is weird. And cabbage is much better than Brussels Sprouts. I need to post Bambi Meets Godzilla sometime...

PTM, no.

Anonymous said...

I normally don't like covers (or call them music remakes), but Uriah Heep's Come Away Melinda is a haunting one.

Anonymous said...

That's a bummer when movie remakes lose the point of the original film. Cabbage got more comments, huh? Probably because phone books end up in the recycle bin so much these days.

Anonymous said...

Just signed up for the Get Healthy Blogfest. I hope you enjoy the new Star Trek movie.

Cathy Keaton said...

Oh, yeah. That Clash of the Titans remake was awful. Sometimes Hollywood just needs to stay home.

Chuck said...

The Thing was a good choice and I almost went with it. I guess I am the only one that enjoyed the latest Clash...maybe shiny action is all it takes for me :)

I too really like the Dreaam Theatre version of Love Lies...I play YBR over and over when it came out and that was one of my favorite songs.

Samantha May said...

SWEET PHONE BOOK AND CABBAGE :)

I loved the original Clash of the Titans. It's a classic, even if it isn't that great of a film.

Also, The Thing scared me to death when it came out. Absolutely terrifying and awesome!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi, Alex,

I SO AGREE. The remake of COTT was BEYOND AWEFUL. I too, LOVED the original and it was charming and full of soul. And your comparison to the Sinbad movies was SPOT ON!

Have a great weekend!

Heather M. Gardner said...

Okay.
I'm sold on Dream Theater.
They are rockin' this song!
HMG

Jeremy [Retro] said...

last in line today... it was a great time. lots to share and i think i am in love with a mario/luigi girl set... not brothers, sisters.

Mel Chesley said...

I agree with your worst movie remake! I haven't seen the original or the remake of The Thing to know. :D

Lorel Clayton said...

The 1982 version of "The Thing" can't be beat, and the recent prequel was sorely lacking Kurt Russell.

And I wholeheartedly agree about "Clash of the Titans". As a lover of Greek myths, I was so disappointed in the gods-hating Perseus of the new version. Where was Athena? Where was the chessboard of the gods? The new movie took itself far too seriously and forgot that it was all supposed be just another diversion for the Olympians--and entertainment for both them and us :)

Kate Larkindale said...

Not a lot of love for Clash of the Titans today! I never saw the remake, and I'm definitely not going to now.

Trisha said...

I admit I have a soft spot for Sam Worthington...and not just 'cause he's damn hot! But I haven't seen this movie of his and now I'm not sure I ever should. ;) I haven't seen the original, either, so...yeah. In fact, I haven't seen any of your featured movies, though I did see Ocean's 11 from the "honourable mentions", and War of the Worlds too (I liked that one as well). But haven't seen either of those movies' originals.

DWei said...

Didn't see any of these films I'm afraid. Though my younger cousin didn't like Clash of the Titans...

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Susanne, I did!

Chuck, you have excellent taste in music.

Full of soul - that's a good way to put it, Michael.

Heather, Dream Theater is just awesome.

Lorel, it did take itself too serious.

Trisha, just avoid that film.

The Words Crafter said...

I definitely agree about the Clash of the Titans remake. The original was quirky and more focus was on character, not special effects.

I'd have to throw in Star Trek as a contender for best remake. I loved the interaction, casting choices, the whole nine yards :)

Unknown said...

I've not seen either version of The Thing, but I agree completely with Clash of the Titans - awful awful remake.

Allison said...

I heard such terrible things about Clash of the Titans, I refused to see it.

Allison (Geek Banter)

Leovi said...

Dream Theater often improves original

Unknown said...

I don't know about THE THING, but it doesn't sound like my kind of movie!

Anonymous said...

Love your cabbages! ;)

JJ said...

Alex: Live long and prosper.

Lisa Regan said...

I find it sad that with so much untapped writing talent in the world, Hollywood feels the need to do remakes at all. Then again, the new Italian Job and Man on Fire are two of my very favorite movies! Yay for cabbage! LOL

Jemi Fraser said...

I wondered about the phone books and cabbages! Too funny :)

I didn't join the blogfest because I just haven't watched enough movies to know!!

Patricia Stoltey said...

I'm still chuckling about the cabbage.

Jeff Hargett said...

Can't wait to hear what you thought about the latest Star Trek. Seriously.

Belle said...

I love the bit about the cabbage and phone book!
My worst movie remake would be "The Front Page" which was a remake of "His Girl Friday" one of my favorite movies. However, I did like "Switching Channels" which was a later remake of the same move - and Broadway play.

Yes, I am definitely going to see Star Trek!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Words Crafter, the reboots of Star Trek have been awesome films.

Lisa, I know - so many unused stories out there.

Jeff, review on Monday. And it was awesome!

Belle, you will enjoy it!

DL Hammons said...

I saw INTO THE DARKNESS this weekend and IT ROCKED!!!

And I'm sorry, but I don't consider the original THE THING as bad and to this day remains one of my all-time favorites. Everyone has their tastes. :)

Anonymous said...

The original Clash of the Titans was amazing in a low-budget way.

I love seeing new covers from Christine.

Ciara said...

I never saw, The Thing. I agree about Clash of the Titans. I'm actually taking a break today and my parents, husband and I are headed to INTO THE DARKNESS. Yay!

Suze said...

Hey, I responded to your comment on my post but wanted to make sure you had a chance to read it without having to go back:

'Al, I woke up this morning kind of hating my tone at the beginning of this post. I was thinking I would go watch the movie either late tonight or on Tuesday, which would be my first chance to go see it after tonight. Reading your comment convinces me. Thanks for your input. I'm motivated to 'give it a chance' at your words. :)'

Sandra Cox said...

Hoping to see Star Trek today.
The Ghost sounds awesome.

Annalisa Crawford said...

Does anyone still use a phone book? Mine is still wrapped in the cellophane it was delivered in. I use the interwebby thing!

Unknown said...

That's so funny about the cabbage. I've never seen either Clash of the Titans, but now I have to see it. The original this is.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Ciara, go enjoy!

Suze, I think you will really like it. The film is fun and a solid piece of work.

Annalisa, I use my iPad instead of the phone book.

MunirGhiasuddin said...

I remember seeing the "Thing" in the seventies. It was frightening.

SpacerGuy said...

I've seen Iron Man 3 and STID now and its a close call. Both movies have the fight and flight thrill factor. My neck hairs actually danced for joy. John Carpenters 1980 "The Fog" is scarer than the 2005 remake.

Jai Joshi said...

The Clash of the Titans remake was so bad I couldn't watch it through to the end. Such a shame when I loved the original so much.

I'm dying to see Star Trek Into Darkness!

Kristen said...

I can't believe I forgot to do this! I totally planned on it, but got too busy. Oh well, hopefully I'll have another chance. :)

Unknown said...

I'm still bummed they remade Clash of the Titans. The original is such a cult classic. Yeah, the remake is pretty terrible. The new Star Trek looks great! I'm sure you'll tell us all about it tomorrow. Looking forward to your review!

Carrie-Anne said...

I don't think I've seen the movies you listed. Then again, I'm really unfamiliar with most modern cinema.

The phonebook comment reminds me of something my favorite comedian, Stan Laurel, once said. A great comedian should be able to sit up onstage just reading the phonebook and still get laughs.

Pat Tillett said...

Your choices are good. I totally agree about The Thing! One of my all time favorites. Talk about suspense!

Karen Baldwin said...

Heh, heh, heh...out of breath for getting to the bottom of comments. And so much to see in today's post so I'll start with Carol - always happy to see Solomon's Compass get promoted, and Star Trek. Hope to see this one soon.