Monday, July 21, 2014

Snowpiercer Movie Review and Others, Movie Trivia, Blogging Changes, and Ninja News!

Movie Reviews

Snowpiercer

Finally caught this on Direct TV! Set in a future where a failed climate-change experiment kills all life on the planet except for a lucky few who boarded the Snowpiercer, a train that travels around the globe. Directed by Joon-ho Bong who did The Host.

This is a film where you have to buy into the really odd premise in order for it to work. (And I won’t spoil the origins of the Snowpiercer, but it makes more sense than it sounds.)

Visually it’s very impressive. It’s a quirky film, similar to a Terry Gilliam movie with bizarre, colorful characters and surreal settings. It deals with complex moral issues in its own quirky fashion.

Chris Evans is great (and far removed from his Captain America role) along with the rest of the cast.

Once the characters start moving forward on the train, trying to reach the engine, the film is full steam ahead and never lets up.

Recommended.

Robocop

A rather pointless remake. It strips away the social parody that made the original a camp classic and replaces it with a straightforward story that is at times dull and overlong. The special effects are good and the top notch cast does a good job with what they were given. Watch only if you’re really curious.

The Lego Movie

For me, not nearly as good as all the hype. It’s very odd and quirky (which is probably the only way a movie about Legos could work) and when it’s funny, it’s really funny. It’s fairly entertaining and doesn’t overstay its welcome. Watching it once was enough though.


Ninja News

Huge music news – Pink Floyd will release The Endless River in October, their first studio album in twenty years. Most of this material was recorded at the same time as The Division Bell, but there will be additional work and a tour is rumored. (Considering the surviving members are around seventy years old, a tour would be impressive.)


Vanessa Morgan’s other blog, Traveling Cats, was featured in this month's issue of Your Cat.

Epic contests through Audiomachine and more – design a t-shirt or book trailer, write a steampunk series, and numerous other opportunities! Visit Samantha Redstreake Geary for details.


New books-

Glitch of a Witch by Pat Hatt

Words on Birds by Kelly Polark

The Butcher by Jennifer Hillier

Cryostorm by Lynn Rush



And Jo Wake had a short story published in the Indie-Pendence Day Anthologies Book 1. She claims she had help and it will be her only short story ever, but I bet we can coax her into writing more, don’t you?


Movie Trivia Returns!

Name those characters -

1 – The four Pevensie children from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe

2 – The four Ghostbusters

3 – The five captains from the five Star Trek series

4 – The nine crew members of the Serenity from Firefly

5 – The Fellowship of the Nine from LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring

Answers next Monday!

Changes in Blogging

Last week, Karen Jones Gowen posted about the trouble with blogging, and Denise Covey followed up with her own post.

They covered a lot of stuff and I won’t rehash any of it here. Go read their posts instead. But I will say I’ve been around long enough that I’ve seen many changes and new trends appear. (Things such as fewer people following back and more promotional stuff.)

I’d like to make adjustments to my own blog. I still want to share news and have guest posts, but fewer cover reveals and stuff like that. Get back to more of the movie-music-games-science fiction-geek stuff. As I told Denise, it’s been ages since I did any trivia. Ages!

And maybe a little more stuff about me. Perhaps even a snippet of me playing guitar. Or even small joys like the email I received yesterday from a blogger buddy that involved each of us being a blessing to the other. (Unless you don’t want more of me, especially as I’m the last thing I want to talk about!)

If you read those posts or think things are changing, chime in below with your thoughts.
Seen any of those movies and what did you think? Picking up some new books? Know any of the trivia? (Even just the first name?) And what changes have you seen in blogging or do you plan to make?

202 comments:

1 – 200 of 202   Newer›   Newest»
Elephant's Child said...

A Pink Floyd tour? That would be amazing.
Congratulations to all the authors - new and old.
Blogging for me is about connections. Connections with people who become friends, and windows into very different lives. I am not planning on stepping away any time soon.

Ella said...

I am craving snow and some Pink Floyd. The movie sounds unique and worth the time to take a trip on a train. I am happy to hear Chris is doing other projects~

Yes, old school sounds good to me and more YOU, in YOUr blog.

Thank you for sharing all the new books! So many great and unique story lines-I want them all!

I see more and more people using FB as their blog. It bothers me. I get it, but I don't like it.

Off to read Karen n' Denise's post~ Thanks for sharing!

Yes, a snippet would would be great! C'mon Captain play us a favorite tune!

Miranda Hardy said...

I could probably answer the trivia questions for the first two, but I'm fuzzy on the last three. Lol

Blogging has changed a lot over the years. I'm heading to Karens and Denise posts now.

M.J. Fifield said...

I'm with you on the Lego movie. I watched it in the theater with my niece, and thought it was fun, but once was definitely enough for me.

kaykuala said...

Would be fun to see how the Pink Floyd makes out. Been a long time. Great to see new authors presenting their books. Thanks for sharing Alex!

Hank

Natalie Aguirre said...

I'd love the changes to your blog, especially learning more about you. Even though my blog is mostly to help promote other authors, I do try to share a bit of myself at the top of my blog.

I feel like blogging is at least stabilizing in that I've found a group of people, many through you, who are committed to blogging and not disappearing. I think it's sad how some people are moving more to Facebook and Twitter. I find it harder to connect and so many people on both that I miss a lot. I'm still a big fan of blogging to make connections.

EnglishRose said...

Congrats to all authors of new books,
Yes Alex times and ways are changing in Blogland some for the better others not. I like to see new faces in my followers like I did years ago but with all the gliches I've endured it's not the case. I do thank people who have started to follow me over the week-end.

Have a good day,

Shah Wharton said...

Snow Piercer sounds interesting Chris Evans is pleasing to the eye :)

Pink Floyd news - Wow! My hubs will be chuffed! I'll know what to buy him for Christmas now.

I do a lot of features for authors because I just love helping folks get their work out there. It's hard work without support. So I won't change that. But I do keep promising myself I should do less. It's hard to keep up. I think everyone would enjoy more posts about you though Alex - the man behind the Ninja! :)

Congrats to all the book launchers. !!

shahwharton.com

Lynda Dietz said...

I think you're one of the few people who thought the Lego Movie was "okay." Now I'm curious. It sounded cute to me, but not something I'd rave over.

Naming all the people in your trivia brings to mind "Jingle All the Way" when the radio announcer is trying to get the names of Santa's reindeer, and the callers are saying things like, "Tito, Germaine . . ." In this case, I think I could get all but the crew from the Serenity without cheating.

I'd love to hear more about your world. I've often wondered if you'd ever posted photos or videos of you and your guitar, so yes. Let's hear a little more about you!

Liza said...

Yeah! I made it into the first ten comments! I want to see you play the guitar.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

I still want to see the Robocop remake, I didn't make it to the theater in time to see it there. Saw Dawn of the Planet of the Apes on Saturday and it was incredible.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Looking forward to the "new" Pink Floyd album. Hopefully it's not so depressing you could play it for "Slit-Your-Wrist Music Hour," as my husband puts it.

My son likes Legos and has some things that tie into the movie, but he hasn't shown much interest in the movie itself. Maybe he's too focused on Star Wars at the moment.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Oh, and congrats to Jo to making it into the Indie Writers Monthly anthology!

Donna K. Weaver said...

Yeah, but you're our friend, Alex. That's why we like to learn more about you.

As for the promotional stuff, that's why I almost only do it on Fridays. Once a day is booked, I don't do more unless it's for special friends.

Sarah Foster said...

I watched The Lego Movie for free on a plane (our flight was delayed) and I enjoyed it--but I agree, I probably wouldn't watch it again. I did have to keep myself from laughing too loud, though.

Anonymous said...

Fingers crossed Pink Floyd does a good job with their album. I'm a big fan of their early stuff.

I love that DirecTv offers movies while they're still in the theaters. It's worth the cost!! Glad to hear Snowpiercer was a decent flick.

Gail said...

You have just made my Christmas easier. My oldest daughter is die hard Pink Floyd fan...end of story.

I've seen blogging change. I've changed. One day I may have a funny story and the next some rambling poem (I mistakenly think I can write) I seem to have little time to read yet cherish each morsel of comment I am given.

I have no idea how you keep up with your following. I know its lots of work and dedication. You prove every day you are the Ninja of Blogdom.

Blogdom has given me bravery. It has make me remember anything is possible. I think I have grown by contact with people all over the world.

I know Tweet and Facebook are wonderful for some but not me. I talk too much.

Have a great day. If you change, I will be there. That is what friends are for after all.

Unknown said...

Reading promotional posts are not interesting but I guess part of the business. I wish some could be more creative about it though. I saw the lego movie and although funny in parts, couldn't watch it twice either. Have a great week.

Christine Rains said...

Thanks for the reviews! I really want to see Snowpiercer now. I've seen the Lego movie a few times as my kid has it. I just sort of tune it out! That's interesting about blogging. I might have to rethink mine too. Though, I do like helping out other authors by posting reveals and reviews. I do wonder if it helps if you're very clear about your schedule and what sort of posts come on which days.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Elephant's child, I'm not either.

Ella, I'll see what I can do. Not on Facebook, so I would never see those blogs.

MJ, good to know it wasn't just me.

Natalie, so am I!

Rosy, just glad you're back.

Shah, I enjoy helping others as well. Will post a little more about me now and then.

Lynda, will work on a jam session for you.

Liza, that made me chuckle.

Thanks, Donna!

Elsie, it is worth the cost. ($7.99 in Snowpiercer's case.)

Gail, I've enjoyed everything you've posted. You are a great writer. And yes, that's what friends are for.

Kirsten said...

Yay, trivia! (And I'm not peeking at the comments--that would be cheating. :) )
James T. Kirk, Jean Luc Picard, (something) Janeway ... wait, there were FIVE captains?
All right let's see about LOTR then: Frodo and Sam, Legolas, Aragorn, Boromir ...
Okay, I give up in shame! (But it was fun to try.)
I would love to read more stuff about you, and some guitar snippets would be awesome!!

RaveAir said...

The new Robocop wasn't as bad I previusly expected. The original version of it has an unique atmosphere. I had watched it many times at the VHS era. I missed the gore and violence from the remake which was too much sterillized.

I completely agree with you about the LEGO movie. I expected far more... The trailers promised much more fun and awesomeness (is it a real word?). The apperance of Will Ferrel was the worst part of the movie.

You posted a very great trivia, but I failed with the correct answers.

Mason Canyon said...

Now you have me wondering about SNOWPIERCER. I saw a commercial for it and the action looked awesome. It seems a lot of the 'older' bands are coming back. A good thing for my generation.

As for the changes to blogging and your blog, I'm in the dark. I love visiting you site and no matter what you do, I'll continue stopping by (even when I don't have a chance to comment). I know as blogger we probably need to change a bit from time to time to keep things fresh, but knowing what to change to keep the readers you have and encourage more is a hard one.

And the trivia questions, those will be running through my head all day as I try to remember ended with me finally Googling everything tonight. :)

Congrats to all the new releases and cover reveals.

BTW Alex, we'd all love to hear you play.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Hmm, I know half of the first Movie Trivia question - Lucy and Edmund were the two youngest kids. I think.

It's good to step back sometimes and re-evaluate what we're doing with our lives, our writing, our blogging. Change CAN be good. Listen to your heart, your gut. Go for it, Alex! :)

Madeline @ The Shellshank Redemption

Jo said...

Thanks for the shout out Alex although I feel a bit bogus about the whole thing.

Peter, Susan, Edmund, Lucy. Only ones I know. I love the books and the movies even at my advanced age.

Snowpiercer sounds a bit like a book I read many years ago, Malevil where a bunch of friends are in a cellar in a castle doing a wine tasting and although one is never sure, it appears that a nuclear holocaust took place leaving them all alone.

Luanne G. Smith said...

Yeah, I've been seeing a lot of posts about the state of blogging lately. It's a form of social media that requires a lot of time. That's always hard for people to sustain long-term. But, yeah, I've noticed many people don't return comments anymore. And I've never had luck with people following back much. But I enjoy interacting with the people I have met who've stick around. :)

Still need to watch Snowpiercer.

Bob/Sally said...

I loved the Lego Movie but, you're right, watching it once is probably enough. Snowpiercer doesn't really grab me, but I've heard so much hype, I'll have to watch it eventually.

Jeremy [Retro] said...

PINK is BACK... I loved Division Bell and anything more from that time period will be awesome... and a tour.

Thank you for thoughts on Snowpiercer and RoboFlop... you hit that one on the head. Working on the trivia for the week, but I have half and the others I need to think about.

Also the shout out for AUDIOMACHINE... excellent.

I know lots of capital letters today.. it's Monday. Also I changed my post to less reflect on my friends and more life issues... it all has the same kind of meaning. I would hope to one day share real time with friends I have in the blog world as they are much cooler.

Jemi Fraser said...

Snowpiercer does sound fun!
Blogging has changed and will probably continue to do so. The promo stuff has become much more prevalent - I'm guilty of that! It's fun to support blog buddies, but it can get to be too much.

I actually know a few trivia answers (don't faint!)
3 - Kirk, Picard, Janeway, Sisko, Archer
4 - Mal, Kaylee, Jayne, Zoe, Wash, River, Simon, Inara, Shepherd
5 - Frodo, Sam, Merri, Pippen, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, Boromir

mshatch said...

Hmm, I should know the trivia, let's see...

1. Peter, Edward, Susan, and Lucy
2. Bill Murray, Dan Ackroyd...um...
3. Kirk, Picard, Janeway...
4. Mal, River, River's brother who likes Kaylie, Jane... oh, the companion, what's her name? and the Captain and his co-pilot, dammit can't remember their names either.
5. Gimli, Legolas, Aragorn, Frodo, Pippin, Merry, Sam, Boromir, and Gandalf

Cathrina Constantine said...

We all want more of you Alex! And a snippet of you playing the guitar--awesome!

My hubby loves Pink Floyd, great news!

Chemist Ken said...

I'd like to make my blog more than just the weekly blurb on what I've learned about writing. It was my love of chemistry, alchemy, and castles that helped propel me into starting that blog in the first place (and also got me writing fiction) and I'd love to tailor more of my posts in that direction. That would probably take more work though and I'm not sure how many people would be interested.

Pat Hatt said...

Peter, Susan, Edmund, Lucy
Ray, Egon, Winston, Venkman
Kirk, Archer, Picard....
Mal, Zoe, Walsh, Jayne, Kaylee, River, Simon, Preacher guy, Stargate Adria actress
Sam, Frodo, Legolas, Gimli, Aragon, Pippin, Merry....


Blogs change with the season I find a lot, slow down, pick up, etc. And you have to enjoy what you are doing, if you don't enjoy it and are looking to change things up, then chances are you very well should change things or it will become a burden and that is no fun. being so far ahead I can take breaks whenever I please, helps a lot.

Suzanne said...

Not heard of Snowpiercer, but I did like The Host, so will keep an eye out :)
Let's hope Pink Floyd's album works and isn't a case of making extra money but the spark has gone.
Quiz was okay apart from Star Trek - Captain Kirk is about it *hangs head in shame*
I've got tbh I am so fed up of cover reveals. I joined in one at the beginning of the year, but it was a fun 'who would you marry' idea to make it more interesting. When I look at new posts on the blogs I follow I actually sigh when I get about 20 posts all featuring cover reveals!
Gosh I've waffled today LOL!
Suzanne @ Suzannes-Tribe
x

Jay Noel said...

You're the second person I know to recommend Snowpiecer, so now I have to watch it.

And my kids LOVE the Lego movie. I love it too, but not that much!

I will check out the posts about blogging. It's evolved over the last decade, and it's been an interesting run. My own blog has morphed maybe five or six times.

Just like anything, times change.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I am so excited about the new Pink Floyd album!

Blogging goes through a lot of cycles. We have to learn to roll with the changes.

Juliana Haygert said...

Snowpiercer sounds intriguing.

Robocop was okay. And the kid loved The Lego Movie.

Hart Johnson said...

HA! Those first two releases by friends have rhyming titles (first author name also rhymes) I started feeling like I'd fallen into a Dr. Seuss book for a minute there, which is a good thing.

As to the blogging question... it was so second nature for a while... amusing things would just come to me, but somewhere along the line it began to feel like work, and I'm not sure what that's about. Maybe it is the novelty that's worn off? I also sort of wish I'd dived in more slowly. The reciprocation thing reached a point where it was impossible to keep up so I think to some degree I gave up (not entirely, but I am definitely not as diligent--I can't do it ALL, so I do less than I used to when I COULD do it all, if you get what I mean...)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Clarissa, agree - when each post is different, that's much more interesting.

Christine, I'm sure that does help.

Kirsten, you gave it a good try!

Zoltan, sterile is a good way to describe it.

Mason, I appreciate that!

Jo, not bogus at all.

LG, and that's sad.

Jeremy, we try to be cool.

Jemi, you're on top of the trivia today!

Marcy, well done and that made me laugh.

Ken, what you post now is already great.

Pat, well said. And you scored well on the trivia. Which does not surprise me.

Suzanne, and there's only so much you can say on those posts...

Jay, you would really dig it!

Karen, that's why I'm going to focus more on the releases.

Unknown said...

congrats to all the authors!! And as for the Lego Movie, I hear that "Everything is Awesome" gets stuck in your head forever

Robin said...

Cover reveals become tedious. I hate saying that, but it is true. If there is nothing more than a cover and a blurb hitting half of the blogs you follow in a day... it is tedious. I know that there MUST be a more effective way for an author to showcase their newly published work. A way that actually nets sales.

Yes, yes, and yes to more of you here. I think that would be awesome.

Tonja Drecker said...

Pink's new album has put a smile on my face. Yay! As to trivia - ugh! I can't remember anything.
It'd be fun to see the changes in your blog. I've notice the less follow back too. I just find it hard to keep up all the social platforms that one's 'supposed' to do. Perhaps, blogging is simply be pushed to the side (does take more time and effort). But blogging is more stabile. Wouldn't trade in those friends for the world ;)

Anonymous said...

I think it'd be awesome to see a snippet of you playing the guitar. Erm, I only know the answers to the LOTR and Narnia one. Shame on me.

Julie Flanders said...

I'd love to hear a snippet (or more!) of your guitar playing. I didn't know about Jo's story, so happy for her.

Shell Flower said...

I'd love to see you playing guitar (or even hear you!) and hear more about you. I totally want to see Snowpiercer, too. Blogging changes just like everything else, but I don't think it's going away.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Another interesting post as always. I haven't seen any of the movies, but that's not unusual. I watch a few DVDs at times but seldom go to the theater.

Sometimes change is good. I'd enjoy seeing you play the guitar and learning more about you. It is your blog. :)

Al Diaz said...

Trivias! Loved the trivias, even if often I don't know the answers.
Let's see: Lucy, Susan, Peter and Edmund.
I only remembered Egon and Ray.
I don't know
I don't know
Ah! Alex, David, Elizabeth...Wait! That's another Fellowship. Sam, Frodo, Pippin, Merry, Gandalf, Aragorn, Boromir, Gimli and Legolas.
I've been asking to hear you play, but who listens to the dragon? :P

Birgit said...

Love to hear the Ninja rock it out! I will wait until you post it:) I heard of that one film and want to check it out. I have no care in seeing Robocop or lego movie. Even the preview for Robo Cop looks lame. Now the 5 Star trek captains-James Tiberius Kirk, Jean Luc Picard, Katherine Janeway, Avery Brooks played the Depp Sh...Um I mean Space 9 and Sam Bakaula played the capt in Enterprise but can't recall their names. LOTR-Frodo Baggins, Sam (?) wise, Gandolf, Legalus, John Rhys Davis was the dwarf, Viggo(hubba hubba) Mortensen played the king (future) and the 2 side kicks-dang it all-can't recall. So that's it for me:)

Jennifer Hawes said...

I'm glad you posted a review of Snowpiecer. I've been wanting to see it but wasn't sure if it was any good. The Lego Movie was a let-down. It had its moments, but I was not super impressed. (I thought I was the only one who felt that way;-)
Peter, Lucy, Susan and Edmond...best book ever!!
I don't even know the half of blogging. So I'm staying out of it:)

Catherine Stine said...

I'm glad you said that Snowpiercer makes more sense than it looks. Cause I saw the preview and thought wha??? But I love me a good scifi so I gotta see it! BTW, I voted for your book on the efestival of books site! Good luck.

A Beer for the Shower said...

Now I'm gonna have to see if I can track down Snowpiercer. Weird as it may be, I do still want to see it.

Adjustments are good. Just my 2 cents, but I think you're going in the right direction. Cover reveals are cool, but I think having too many cover reveals lessens the overall effect. Looking forward to not just these changes, but hearing you shred that guitar.

Gossip_Grl said...

On your question of Blog Changes I have to say this is your blog to blog what you want to. It is okay to not post the cover reveals or if you still want, pick one day to do that so that you can concentrate on getting your books recognized on your blog! Although I don't always know the answers to your trivia questions I like reading them. On blog changes so many are ditching the old Friend Connect for Google+. I am not using the Google+ so it makes it a little harder connecting with those blogs especially when they don't use a follow by email feed. Great post btw!

Loni Townsend said...

I just saw The Lego Movie last Thursday (via Redbox). I agree, when it's funny, it's really funny. Now I have "Everything is Awesome" stuck in my head. Thanks. :P

I look forward to learning more about you. Personal blogs interest me the most, though I love the news and geeky stuff too. I've noticed a lot of cover reveals too... and since everyone I follow runs in the same circles, it's like the same thing pops up everywhere.

I guess that means I need to spread out more, huh?

Rachna Chhabria said...

Hi Alex, I would definitely like to hear you play the guitar. I would also like to know more about you. And also see a picture of you (is that getting too greedy ;) )

klahanie said...

Hi Alex,

I watched Pink Floyd's comeback gig about a year or so ago. The first time they'd been together in something like twenty years.

So, that news you mention is awesome.

I'd now like to concentrate on one thing. One of the things about your site that, although well intentioned, is that you do indeed perhaps mention too many cover reveals and various links. It can get lost in the shuffle. When I feature on my site, it's usually only the mention of one person which I hope maximises the awareness.

Yes, good sir, more about you. Kudos for all you do, my friend.

Gary

Ellie Garratt said...

I'm just trying to get back to what blogging used to be about - making connections with other writers. I lost my way for a long time - too much time on FB!

Tyrean Martinson said...

I haven't seen Snowpiercer yet, but I plan to check it out after your review! I actually liked the remake of Robocop, but more of in "a different Cinderella story" kind of way. (Cindy's story has been retold at least a hundred times in a hundred different ways).
I'm usually brain dead on trivia, but I want to give it a shot this time:
1 - Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy.
2 - ? I can't remember?
3 - Kirk, Picard, Janeway, Sisko, and Archer
4 - Mal, Zoe, Wash, Jayne, Kaylee, Simon, River, Shepherd Book, and Inara
5 - Frodo, Sam, Pippin, Merry, Gandalf, Gimli, Legolas, Aragorn, um, I should know the last 2, but my brain just took a left turn - breakfast for my kayaking daughter.

Have to run, but Yes, to more of Alex!!! And a bit of guitar would be good!

Al Penwasser said...

Kirk, Picard, Janeway, Cisco, Archer, Kirk II
Although, I think "Kirk II" is a stretch.
My favorite?
Both Kirks.
Cisco's (spelling?) for sucks, Picard's a Borg, Janeway...meh, Archer is...well, who cares about Archer?

Al Penwasser said...

Wait!!! You wanted FIVE!
Well, I can't count.
My statement about favorite captains stands, though.
Plus, I read the comments above and saw that Cisco is spelled wrong.
I can't spell either.

Unknown said...

Gilliam is one of my favourite Directors. Loved Brazil.

You know if there were to be an apocalypse, I'd not want to survive it. I'd rather die and be face to face with the Lord.

Leovi said...

Yes, I just saw this movie and it's a big disappointment!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Hart, it does become difficult to keep up with everyone.

Beth, it does!

T, I wouldn't trade them either.

Al, very good, and that made me chuckle. Yes, will record me playing soon.

Birgit, you remembered their real names, and that's impressive.

Jennifer, you weren't the only one.

Thanks, Catherine!

Brandon and Bryan, thanks, and will work on the shredding.

Gossip, I don't use the Google+ one either.

Loni, maybe we all need to spread out more.

Gary, I know it's a lot. I'm just trying to post something for everyone.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

So much good news. You are a blessing to so many bloggers, me included. I say do your blog your way, we will come back. :)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Glad you got to catch "Snowpiercer." I've been debating the movie with a friend of mine by telephone. I love the cover art and title of Pat Hatt's book. So funny

mail4rosey said...

Lucy, Edmond, Peter, and Susan. :)

I agree w/the synopsis on The Lego Movie...though my 6-yr. old would disagree(he LOVES it). I felt the same about Frozen...it was good, but not equal to the hype surrounding it.

Woot to Pat Hatt for his new book!

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

After reading about Snowpiercer here, Alex, I rented it from Amazon Instant Video. Very, very interesting! I'm a sissy, so a bit violent for me, but I loved the concept, the way it was set...absolutely an amazing premise, I thought.

And--change is always good, especially when we feel we've had to cut back on more of the fun stuff we *enjoy* blogging about.

I know some of this trivia, for once! :)

Susan Kane said...

While we have watched the listed shows many times, I can name only a few of each show. Sad. Sad.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Of course we want more of you. I've missed the trivia even though I don't usually know it. I do know some of the questions today. I look forward to your movie reviews and usually agree with them after I see the movie.

Carrie-Anne said...

The only trivia answer I know is #1, Susan, Lucy, Peter, and Edmund. The Narnia books are among the few fantasy books I've ever read.

I'm going to start putting more album reviews on my blog, some of them edited from the reviews I managed to save from my old Angelfire site. This summer, they're going out on Fridays (except this coming Friday), and in the fall, I'll probably switch them to Mondays. Given my dinosaur taste, the only fairly current albums I'll be reviewing are from people who got famous long ago.

Anonymous said...

I saw the Lego Movie in theaters and enjoyed it, but didn't feel the need to buy it on BluRay.

I've been doing a lot of promo of other people's books on my blog lately. It's something I've been wanting to do: help others out. But I definitely haven't been posting other stuff as much and need to balance it out better.

Andrew Leon said...

I said about the same as you in my review of Robocop. Of course, I said it longer.

Cherie Reich said...

Congrats to the authors on their new releases!

And I know what you mean about blogging. I love being able to support my fellow authors, but I'd also like to blog about other things too, so I've been thinking in the upcoming new year bringing back Fantasy Chat and talking about fantasy works/movies/etc. and keeping on day a month on my blog for all the promo.

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Snowpiercer showed up on my On Demand list, too. I suggested it the other night, but was vetoed by the daughters who wanted something a little lighter. I might just have to watch it by myself!

Jennifer Lane said...

Hey Alex, Chris Evans is yum and I don't believe in global warming so thanks for reviewing that movie--I'd never heard of it.

As the mother of three sons, my sister has to sit through a lot of insufferable movies, but she said The Lego Movie surprised her in a good way with its adult humor.

Re: another blog mentioned, I love how you promote other authors. Please keep it up!

Have you decided on a release date for your novel? I've noticed we are having some parallel timelines so I wanted to compare!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Tyrean, you did great on the trivia!

Al, maybe you can't spell, but you can sure give me a good laugh.

Anne, Amen!

Thank you, Teresa.

Rosey, I'm sure you've seen both movies many, many times...

Elizabeth, good! And yes, Snowpiercer wins for originality.

Susan, there will always be movie reviews! I watch too many movies to stop now.

Carrie-Anne, that sounds cool.

Andrew, that made me chuckle...

Cherie, you should do that!

Dianne, watch it any way you have to.

Charles Gramlich said...

When I first heard the premise for snowpiercer I thought it was about as goofy as Sharknado. Sounds like it's somewhat better, though.

Tonja said...

I was fortunate enough to see Pink Floyd in concert in Indianapolis in the late 80's. They are one of my favorite bands - I don't care how old they are.

You should have seen the Lego Movie with my son, who was singing the song out loud (and very loudly and remarkably on-pitch). Once he started singing, all the kids started singing. It was so much fun.

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

The Snowpiercer sounds like an interesting movie. Don't watch many movies, but this could be on the list. Thanks for sharing it!

Mary Montague Sikes

Roland D. Yeomans said...

You're right that SNOWPIERCER is like a Terry Gilliam picture. In fact, he has a new film coming out, ZERO THEORUM -- which looks interesting.

Blogging is, indeed, changing. It has gotten more market oriented, always hyping it seems.

What with the Malaysian shoot down, the Ukraine, homeless children adrift across our borders, the Middle East consistently heating up, global warming --

it seems we are like partiers aboard the Titanic, talking about fashions as we head towards that unseen ice berg.

ilima said...

I'm NOT going to cheat--

1-Lucy, Peter, Edmund...Sally?
2-Um...
3-Kirk, Pickard, yep
4-Wash, Zoe, Mal, River, Simon, Kaylee, Jayne, Inara, Book...if I don't get this one I will die.
5-Frodo, Sam, Merry, Pippin, Gandalf, Aragorn, Gimli, Legolas, and dang it I can't remember the last guy. It's the son of the Gondor dude. :(

Looking forward to more fun movie trivia. :)

Mina Burrows said...

I wonder if I can get Snowpiercer on Comcast or Netflix?

I can't believe I don't know one of the answers to the trivia questions. Not one!

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Ever since I read that article about doing nothing more than completing 10 books before you begin marketing... well, I'm starting to believe he's right. We need to get as many books out there as possible, then start worrying about our big break. At least that's my intent. I'm having plenty of problems keeping up with all the blogs I visit. I don't think I can put more on my plate. Honestly, Alex, I would love to hear more about you and your career and how you do it all.

mooderino said...

I thought the Lego Movie was a bit overhyped too. Not bad, but not the greatest movie ever either.

mood

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

I love your trivia game, Alex, though I fail every time. This one, I haven't a clue.

Yes, bloggers are steering away from the personal, playful posts. I see more and more writers' blogs and/or blogs featuring authors. It's too overwhelming. I want to learn more about the people behind the blogs, so I like your plans to include your guitar music, for example.

I've been singing "Everything is awesome!" ever since I saw the Lego Movie. I loved it, mainly because I saw it with my awesome love bug nephew.

StratPlayerCJF said...

Are you kidding?!?!? I'd LOVE to hear snippets of your guitar playing, my brother!

Alex -- you do such an amazing job of interacting, networking, supporting, and encouraging other writers and bloggers. I frankly wonder how on Earth you manage, my friend. But I would have no problem with you taking your blog and removing some of the promotional stuff of others, to make it more intimate and personal about you.

It's your blog -- Yes, it's a part of the whole "marketing" of Alex J. Cavanaugh, indie-author-extraordinaire, but you also have the absolute right to make this blog whatever the heck you want it to be. And I'll support you.

And off the top of my head:

1. No clue. Drawing a blank.

2. Spengler, Vinkman, Stannis (? Ackroyd), and uh, Zandmore, or something like that..

3. James Tiberius Kirk, Jean Luc Picard, Sisko, Janeway, and Archer.

4. Mal Reynolds, Wash, Zoe, Kaylie, and Jayne. OK, that's the crew. Then there was Inaria, River Tam, her brother Dr. Tam (Simon), and Shepherd Book. Whoot -- all nine!

5. Wow off my head (and hope you don't count spelling): Frodo, Sam, Gandalf (was he part of the nine?), Pip, Legolas, Aragon (the Ranger), another hobbit who's name escapes me, and then the dwarves. Gimmlie (I think) and.. uh, the other short guy.... How about knowing that Gandalf's horse was named "Shadowfax?" Does that count?

cleemckenzie said...

I'll be interested in seeing what you come up with when you revamp your blog. I do think blogging has become repetitive, and I've been trying to think of ways I can switch up mine.

Sherry Ellis said...

I think it would be cool to have a little more about you. I know you're a really private person, but I'd love to hear you play your guitar!

(I can't say I was crazy about the Lego movie, either.)

Emily R. King said...

My kids love The Lego Movie. I've seen it at least twenty times, still makes me laugh. :)

Unknown said...

LOVE me some Pink Floyd! Thank you for the awesome IMAGINE shout-out:) My blog ran away with the film music circus--there's no telling where it will go from here:)

Cheers!

IMAGINE: Epic Music Inspires Challenge

Suzanne Furness said...

Sometimes it is good to have a change and learning a little more about you would be fun.I'll have to check out the posts to read what other folks are saying.

I know the first of the trivia questions. Happens to be my fave book! Peter, Susan, Lucy, Edmund.

jaybird said...

Of course we want more of you! Cover reveals are awesome, and it's great to help another blogger out. It's more important (to me at least) to get to know my blogging buddies better. It would be amazing to hear/see you play the guitar.

Sorry, I'm in the middle of one of my wonderful flare-ups. Which means, my brain is too tapped to even attempt the trivia. Sad thing is, somewhere in my crazy head are all the answers :)

The Angry Lurker said...

I'll look out for Snowpiercer, Robocop was a real let down.

S. L. Hennessy said...

Trivia! Love it...
1) Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy
2) Ray Stantz, Spengler, Venkman and Zeddemore
3) Kirk, Picard, uh...
4) Captain Mal Reynolds, Inara, Kaylee, Jayne, Book, Simon, River, Zoe and Wash
5) Aragorn, Boramir, Gandolf, Gimli, Legolas, Frodo, Sam, Merry and Pippin

Nicki Elson said...

Yeah, I keep thinking I should see the Lego Movie...and then I don't, so I'm happy to hear someone say it doensn't live up to zee hype.

Let's see...
1. Lucy, and...uh...
2. Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd...ah crud, I have no idea what their movie names were.
3. Kirk & Picard is all I got.
4. Mal, Zoe, Wash, Kaylie, Jayne, River, the Shepherd, Inara & the doctor...son of a---what's his name?!
5. *ahem* Boremir, Aragorn, Frodo, Samwise, Pippin, Meri, Dumbledore--hehe just kidding, Gandalf, Legolas & Gimley. :)

Patsy said...

3. Catherine Janeway, Jean Luc Picard, James Kirk ... that's it surely?

Cindy said...

I think it's good to change up the blog now and then. Will look forward to seeing what you do.

Unknown said...

Hey there! Just thought I would drop in for a visit. Snowpiercer sounds very intriguing. And yeah, I was disappointed with the new Robocop.

Pevensies Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy.

Star Trek Kirk, Picard, Sisko, Janeway and Archer.

Serenity Mal, Wash, Zoe, Jayne, River, Simon, Kaylee, Inara and Book

Take care!

J E Oneil said...

I hope I can see Snowpiercer soon. It really sounds like an interesting take on the apocalypse.

I can't answer most of the trivia questions. It's been too long since I've seen/read some of them.

Stephanie Faris said...

Glad Robocop was a bad remake. I'll always have fondness toward the original, being a child of the 80s.

As for blogging, I, personally, see the benefits of cover reveals and book reviews, but I'm not really interested in reading blogs about that. Mostly we do that to support each other, but I think blogs should focus primarily on content. I'm interested in reading blogs about people's lives, tips for writers, that sort of thing. I read the others to build my blog readership, but my favorite blogs are the ones with good content.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jennifer, that will be completely up to my publisher. They have to accept it first. Actually, I have to finish it first!

Charles, there is a reason behind the train.

Tonja, I'll take your word for it.

Roland, I refuse to go down with the ship!

Ilima, yes he was! You did good with the trivia.

Mina, not on NetFlix yet.

Joylene, I'll try!

Robyn, I will make this place more personal.

Chris! Appreciate it, my friend. Perfect score on Firefly and I'll let one name slide since you knew Shadowfax.

Samantha, you're welcome!

Jaybird, I believe you.

SL, I knew you'd get most of those!

Nicki, good job!

Patsy, two more.

Melissa!!! Good to hear from you. Score on the names.

Stephanie, I'll work on the content.

Carol Kilgore said...

Blogging has changed. I love doing it, but it's becoming more difficult to keep up with everyone. I'll need to reassess for next year. Most likely I'll still blog, but I may do things a bit differently.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

No matter how much blogging changes I still love it. I bet your changes will be amazing Alex. I recommend the Lego Movie to everyone! Rocks! I'll try to enter this audiomachine contest in time. Thanks fort sharing all this info with us Alex. We love you!

Truedessa said...

Interesting news about Pink Floyd I think that would be amazing and touring??? That is a show I would like to attend.

A great shout out on new books..Glitch of the Witch is a book done totally in rhyme by who else but, the rhyming king or should I say cat.

Hope you have a great week.

farawayeyes said...

I enjoy your movie reviews and trivia (even though I'm terrible at it). I'm going to head over to see what the girls have to say about the changes in blogging. Im with you on the cover reveals, I'm getting a little bored with that - tell me when your book is out and what it's about - then I'm interested. As far as seeing or hearing more about you, yeah, I would like that.

Empty Nest Insider said...

I'd also love to hear you play the guitar! Whatever you decide to do with your blog will be great! Congrats to Jo, and all the authors!

Julie

Mark Means said...

Personally, I'm all about knowing more about the author than the book....so let's hear those riffs!

Nothing wrong with a review or cover reveal, every now and then, but sometimes they get to be a little much. Just my two cents.

I'm a big trivia fan, as well...so, my guesses are:

1.The Pevensie children: No clue.

2.The Ghostbusters: Ray Stanz, Peter Venkman, Egon Spangler, Winston Zedimore.

3. The five Trek Captains: James T. Kirk, Jean Luc Picard, Catherine Janeway, Benjamin Sisko, Jonathan Archer.

4. The nine Serenity crew members: Captain Malcolm Reynolds, Shepard Book, Simon Tam, River Tam, Kaylee ?, Jayne Cobb, Washburn ?, Zoe ?

5. Never a big LotR fan, so... :)

Maurice Mitchell said...

Snowpiercer sounds like a worthy film, but a far cry from the book of course. I'm glad I saw the Lego movie when I did to avoid the hype. Congrats to all the authors!

G. B. Miller said...

I've always had issues with re-boots/re-makes of classic movies, because for the most part, they really do bite the big one.

I would love to hear a snippet of you doing what you love to do.

As for blog changes, sometimes change is good and sometimes it isn't. Some blogs that I've been following for some time (years) have made the kind of changes that to me become a major turn off (i.e. hardcore writing issues and nothing but hardcore writing issues).

As for me, I did my one and only major change last year when I called it a day with my first blog (major case of burnout), regrouped, retooled and got back to the basics. End result was the birth of my 2nd blog.

Which as we all know, if you have kids, the 2nd one is where you don't apply the goofs from the first one.

And yes, I have two childrens. :D

Father Nature's Corner

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Yep, there's definitely fewer follow backs. And many bloggers seem to be posting less (which is probably a good thing). And yes, there is far too much promotional stuff. I've changed a little... posting way less than I did plus attempting to share a little more of who I am (not easy), but I think people appreciate it more.

I really want to see snowpiecer. I totally agree with your other reviews too. Robocop took itself way too seriously plus it was way too self-indulgent and long. And the Lego Movie didn't match the hype, but it was still fun.

Helena said...

Interesting that Chris Evans can do some serious drama once you get him out of the superhero costume. I'm glad someone gave him the chance.

Of course I want to see more of you, Alex. You've got a generous personality that's such a pleasure to be around. As for my own blogging -- I am way past due for some changes.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sheena-kay, thanks for the vote of confidence!

Truedessa, the rhyming cat king!

Mark, very good on the trivia!

GB, you will never get writing tips from me. Promise.

Botanist said...

I've recently seen a few similar posts about blogging, which is kinda creepy because I was already drafting a guest post along those lines.

Well, this blog is proof that blogging is far from dead. You're clearly doing something right, Alex, though I sometimes suspect there must at least ten Alex clones out there doing all the visiting and commenting. Would love to see some guitar playing!

Karen Jones Gowen said...

Thanks for the mention, Alex! I like your sci fi techy geek stuff. Since I don't do any of that myself, it's fun getting a different perspective. And of course, your movie reviews!

Yvonne Ventresca said...

The Snowpiercer movie sounds interesting, especially what you said about moral issues. My debut YA novel, Pandemic, was published in may, and one of the things I liked exploring was how changes in society can affect how a community help each other (or not). I'll have to rent this one.

Yvonne

Jennie Bennett said...

Blogging is different for everyone. I think the most important thing is keep going because you care about it. You don't always have to love it, but you do have to care.

Trisha said...

I haven't heard about Snowpiercer yet - but I'll keep an eye out for it in cinemas here.

I loved the Lego movie, though I wasn't really expecting to. I kind of find the main character annoying, but I found the movie overly amusing. Love Bad Cop, and Batman. ;)

Trisha said...

Re: your planned blogging changes, I like the sound of what you have in mind! I have actually been struggling to post on a regular basis lately, but I still try to post at least twice a week. At the very least I want to post once a week, definitely no less than that.

I think on my blog, I go through phases where I will do a whole heap of blogfests and stuff, and then I will just spend a month doing updates on what I'm working on. Sometimes I don't do any updates on my work at all, which isn't ideal for a writer's online platform. ;) But I don't really have a strategic plan for my blog. And I kind of like it that way ... even if I wouldn't necessarily mind being totally organised and having set things that I did. :P

Cathy Keaton said...

This is your blog. It should be about you, right? :)

Michelle Wallace said...

I love supporting fellow bloggers by doing book promos on my blog, but I do need to re-think the content, for example, an ongoing regular weekly feature, or something similar, that would lend more substance...
I love my blogging. It's a great way to connect and stay in touch. I don't think it will die out anytime soon.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex .. Snow Piercer does sound an interesting movie – from someone who’d never normally be interested, but you’ve opened that door .. Pink Floyd – I’ll enjoy that ..

As to blogging – I enjoy the friendships I make .. I don’t do FB or Tw .. or other things –though I guess it might change .. I commented on both Karen’s and Denise’s blogs …

I get bored with the same old things on everyone’s blogs – unless they’re stimulating in some ways .. eg blog tours, cover reveals, memes etc … and that's why I don't get involved (usually) - I'd like to keep my blog mostly the way it is .. though I have a couple of new thoughts ..

Cheers … and yes more about you?! Hilary

TBM said...

Would love to hear you play your guitar and I love trivia. I totally suck at trivia and hardly ever know the answers, but I like learning how much I really don't know. I'm weird. Hope you have an awesome week!

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

I was totally captivated by Snowpiercer. Thought it was thoroughly original, and very well executed.

The Happy Whisk said...

As you may recall me telling you before, yes, I'd like to see more stuff about you here. It's great that you do all this promo stuff, please don't misunderstand. But yeah, more stuff about you would be great. And trivia is fun. Although, would it hurt you to give a way a few dead frogs and some broken glass, every once in awhile.

Nearly 6am. Time to get my ovens going and my writing started for the shift. You have a great day, Alex.

The Happy Whisk said...

PS: I'm finding since Blogger hid the regular follow gadget, I'm adding more people to my feed or to my blog roll, rather than following the old fashioned way. And I'm seeing that from others with my site as well, even though my gadget is up. Just seems on the whole, easier to add people to a feed.

Now ... I'm off to my lab to write up something nummy.

Cheers and boogie boogie.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lynda, your posts have always been interesting.

Helena, he was really good in the film.

Thanks, Botanist! And I couldn't do it without clones.

Karen, you're welcome, and thank you!

JA, well said.

Trisha, you just have to go with what feels right for you.

Hilary, you have a unique style to your blog. It's you - don't change it.

Ivy, you want dead frogs? And it's difficult to tell who is following and who isn't now.

Mary Aalgaard said...

I'd love to hear and read a bit more about you. You are an icon in the blogging world. I've noticed less comments and interactions in blogging. I blamed it on summertime distractions, mostly my own.

Unknown said...

Alex -

I've stalled out in blogging. The 3rd child sent me over the edge, and with deadlines for novels & such 'hobbies', I've little time enough as it is.

I'm going to head over to read those bloggers' posts after commenting.

Never even heard of that movie you reviewed. Didn't see the others. (Big surprise, right?!?) Children = little 'me' time these days as a lot of you all know.

:)

Happy blogging. Happy writing.

Unknown said...

Thanks for the heads up on Snowpiercer, I haven't heard of this one.

Congrats to all with new releases!

I am off to visit the two site about blogging....

Anonymous said...

I still enjoy blogging and the content I'm reading. I'd like to participate in more blog hops and do more random posts to share more personal info.

I have Jennifer's book and the rest look good.

The new RoboCop isn't something I'm interested in.

J.L. Campbell said...

Hi, Alex,

I like the fact that I can come to your blog and get an update on who's publishing what.

Although I'm not a movie buff, I find the information you post interesting.

It does seem to me that people don't return follows as readily as before, but maybe they get really busy.

For me, I know I've been lax with posting and I should have more time now, but it doesn't feel that way.

Unknown said...

I watched Snowpeircer the other day too. Honestly I didn't care for it overly. Sure I liked the effects but I didn't like some of the immoral things that happen. The actors did a great job, but it was a bit much for me to really 'enjoy'

Changes in blogging. I have seen it turn more promotional as of late, thats why I started marketing Mondays on my own blog- not for me, but something I could share with others about what I've tried and learned along the way.

There seems to be a huge downturn in following back and even commenting back. But the page views seemed to increase in some cases-so I'mj not really sure what to make of it all.

Dean K Miller said...

I could name a few of the trivia, but would do best with Star Trek, though I didn't get past 2nd Gen...still old school on that one (One convention visited.) I liked the trivia and you and the guitar...yeah I'd say good move. I'm making plans to change my (really split)my blog site...time is my biggest challenge right now.

Robbie Walters said...

Trivia answers - without reading other responses first. Here goes:
1 - Peter, Susan, Edmund, Lucy
2 - Venkman, Spengler, Ray, Winston Zeddemore
3 - Kirk, Picard, Sisco, Janeway, Archer
4 - Capt. Malcolm Reynolds, Jayne Cobb, River Tam, Simon Tam, Zoe, Wash, Shepherd Book, Inara, Kaylee
5 - Frodo Baggins, Samwise Gamgee, Meriadoc Brandybuck, Peregrin Took (Pippin), Gandalf, Aragorn (Strider), Boromir, Legolas, Gimli

Shadowpiercer looks interesting. I'm going to have to check it out. No interest in the new Robocop. Too many remakes these days that don't have the meaning of the original. Lego movie was OK, but not great. Kids loved it. But, EVERYTHING IS AWESOME...!

Jenni said...

I only know the first: Peter, Edmund, Susan, Lucy.
I enjoyed reading the articles about blogging. I'm new to blogging, but I haven't experienced people not reciprocating. In fact, I've been blown away by the fact that people are so good about it. I know I could branch out and do more than the memes I'm doing now, but I have loved the community with ISWG and the Monday Middle Grade group.
Besides, I enjoy blogging so much more than Twitter or Facebook, which drive me crazy.

Leandra Wallace said...

In total agreement over Robocop! And I hadn't heard of Snowpiercer, but it looks like something me and the husband would enjoy. Maybe once the kidlet's in bed, it'll be our weekend movie. And I'd love to see more of 'you' on your blog. But then again, I'm your nosey next-door neighbor type. Lol!

SK Anthony said...

Hey, this thing ate my comment from yesterday :(

Yes to the trivias and to more of Alex! Looking forward to the new changes in your blog :)

Chrys Fey said...

"Glitch of a Witch" looks great. Congrats, Pat!

I haven't seen any of those movies, and hadn't even heard of Snowpiercer, but I like Chris Evans and it looks good. Thanks for sharing, Alex!

The Happy Whisk said...

Yes, please. I'll take two dead frogs to go, hold the dipping sauce.

Yes, it is now a days harder to know who is reading. But I'm okay with that. More important, is that blogging remains fun. I just passed 204 days of blogging in a row and so far, still fun. More so, actually.

Cheers and have a great week.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mary, I think everyone is on vacation.

Terri, don't know how you do any of it.

Medeia, I need to host a blogfest soon. Haven't done one in a while.

Joy, things happen.

Decadent, interesting. I haven't checked page views. And Snowpiercer isn't really an 'enjoyable' movie, so I get that.

Robbie, that is a perfect trivia score! And there are too many remakes.

Jenni, and that's what keeps it fresh - new people like you! Don't worry, I still enjoy it.

SK, sorry!

Ivy, but the dipping sauce makes the dish! Hey, I'm still enjoying blogging.

Liesel K. Hill said...

I felt the same about the Robocop remake. I have a review going up (tomorrow, I think?) but I wasn't terribly impressed. Can't wait to see Snow Piercers, though. And I was glad to see your review of the Lego Movie. I'd totally love to hear more about you, Alex. You don't do enough personal stuff.

Trivia:
1.Peter, Susan, Edmund, Lucy
2.Peter, Ray, Egon,...? Ernie Hudson (can't think of the character name. :D)
3.James Kirk, Jean-Luc Picard, Cisco, ??
4.I'm the only geek on the planet that never watched Firefly.
5.Aragorn, Boromir, Gandalf, Legolas, Gimli, Frodo, Sam, Merry, Pipin.

Leigh Covington said...

I can't force myself to see the Lego Movie. I'll probably rent it for the kiddos at some point, but it just doesn't interest me. It's made me feel bad, but I'm finally going to admit it!

Cherie Colyer said...

I got the names of the children in the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. I'm blaming age for forgetting the Ghostbusters. For as often as I've seen that movie I should know them.

On blogging, I do a mix of posts related to books (not just mine) and writing. The voice in my posts varies, depending on what I'm writing about. There are a lot of things to think about in Karen and Denise's posts. Thanks for sharing them.

Nicole said...

Snowpiercer sounds good - I might have to check it out. I got all the trivia except #3. Fun stuff! :)

Katherines Corner said...

Pink Floyd! What..awesome :-)
Okay snowpiercer was on our maybe list. I love your reviews. just bumped it up on the list. Hugs!

Kelly Polark said...

My husband just watched SNowpiercer too and liked it.

My son LOVED The LEgo movie of course. He is Lego obsessed. I enjoyed watching it, too.

Arlee Bird said...

I wonder if those "blogging changes" are evident with newer bloggers? Or is it more of a trend with bloggers that we are more closely associated with in our community? It may be something that seems to be changing for us more because of cross influence of what others are doing.

Me? I'm just trying to keep things shorter, but it doesn't always work.

Lee
Tossing It Out

Angela Brown said...

I hadn't even heard of Snowpiercer but it sound s very post-apocalypic-interesting. To see Chris Evans stretching his acting chops in a very different role intrigues me. I'll have to find this movie.

That is a varied list of new books available. I'll probably come back to add a few to my TBR.

That trivia was like a swift kick to my memory banks lol! I can see faces but can't remember all of them:
1. 2 sons of Adman and two daughters of Eve, I mainly remember Lucy lol!
2. I remember Ernie Hudson and Bill Murray, even Slimer, but can't recall their character names lol!
3. Can't forget Jean-luc Picard and James T. Kirk, but the others are faces I clearly see but can't name right away.
4. Yeah, I can only remember Wash by name but I do see all the faces. I'm sure someone will toss a tomato at my head for forgetting Nathan Fillon's character name since he was the captain.
5. I can remember Frodo, Sam, Took, Legolas (seriously crushed on this character lol!!), Gandalf and Boremir (sp?) and shame on me for forgetting the dwarf's name.

I read Karen's post about the changes in blogging. I also read one recently by Maria Zannini about some of her takeaways as a reader when reading posts. Both provided some helpful insight that I've got to keep in mind when it comes to my own blog because, though I'm not going to stop blogging anytime soon, I am not as steady-Eddy with it like I used to be.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liesel, you have to watch Firefly!!

Leigh, don't feel bad.

Kathrine, cool!

Lee, I'd like to work on shorter...

Angela, you might not have gotten all the names, but your answers amused me! I need to read Maria's post.

Kim Van Sickler said...

Yes, when I read Karen's post a week ago, it also made me think. I would love to see more of you on your blog, Alex. I think all of the promo stuff we do for one another is to show support and that is great. I keep coming back to, however, that it would be nice for readers to weigh in too. Many blogs by authors, including my own, are top heavy with other writers.

Liz Blocker said...

Pink Floyd is releasing a new album??? THAT IS AMAZING!!

I like your ideas for changes, Alex. Cover reveals and news are important, but they can often take over a blog, and then the blog can lose its own unique flavor. It's a hard balance - I'm still figuring it out.

TRIVIA! Ok, #1: Lucy, Edward, Peter, and Susan. #3: Kirk, Picard, Sisko, Janeway, and Archer. I SHOULD know #s 2 and 4 but I'd need to look them up to check, and that's cheating (in my book). #5: Frodo, Sam, Pippin, Merry, Aragorn (Strider), Boromir, Legolas, Gimli, and Gandalf. YAY!

Crystal Collier said...

I've noticed the move away from personal blogging to straight promotion too. In fact, I got carried away in that trend for a little bit...and then I realized that people didn't want just one or the other, which is why I've found a medium that includes both. We all have to discover a balance, eh?

LD Masterson said...

I should have been able to ace these trivia questions because I watched all of these. I can picture most of the faces but very few names. Kirk, Picard, and Janeway from Star Trek. Mal from Firefly. Can I blame my gray hair?

I included cover reveals in my last couple blogs and I was glad to support those authors, but I think I may not do any more. Spending a day visiting blogs and just seeing the same cover over and over defeats the purpose, on both sides.


Anonymous said...

Pevensy children Susan, Peter, Edmund Lucy.
Captains Pike Kirk Picard Archer

Janeway Sisco

Changes in blogging. I'm afraid i've been out of the loop for sometime so can't comment much. My blog absence is because of life's other demands.

M Pax said...

Snow Piercer sounds great. First we have to replace our blue ray player. It went kaput last week. :(

Yeah, I'd rather help promote releases than cover reveals these days (I'm selective about those I do). I just rethought my blog... I guess it's obvious.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I like that blogging is a dynamic process. We can get bored with our routine and so can our readers, so changing it up once in a while makes good sense. I'd love to see more of you, Alex.

Hmmm. That didn't sound right. I'd love to see more about you, especially a clip of you playing guitar. There, that's better.

Annalisa Crawford said...

I'm really intrigued by Snowpiercer - and I'd love to know more about you, Alex :-)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Kim, I think your assessment is correct.

Liz, very good!

Crystal, you do a good job with it.

LD, well said. And only if I can blame my grey hair.

Mary, at least BlueRay players are cheap now.

Patricia, more of me? I'll gain weight...

Lydia Kang said...

I hadn't heard of that Snowpiercer movie! Interesting.

Also, Lucy, Peter, Susan, and Edmund!

Mason T. Matchak said...

I'd heard a bit about Snowpiercer, but didn't really know what it was about. I'll have to take a look at it when I get a chance.

Though I do think it's pretty amusing that Chris Evans, who's famous for being trapped in ice as Cap, is in a movie called "Snowpiercer". ^_^

Tara Tyler said...

LEGO MOVIE - everything is awesome!! (me and my boys must be cornballs because we love it, over and over =)

1 cant remember
2 peter venkman, ray and egon are the only ones i remember (ernie hudson, but dont remember his character name)
3 nope
4 malcolm reynolds, zoe, jayne, kaylee, river...
5 too much!

i agree about the change in blogging - i think a lot has to do with writer/bloggers now publishing. i feel the need to help other authors as they help me. writers are the most avid readers as a whole... we support each other and are saying less in the way of fun and educational and personal... that's why i try to mix it up and make my posts have some of everything... then they're too long. and i havent written much poetry either.

Denise Covey said...

Hi Alex. Most of the comments I've had have been positive and hopefully will lead to more interesting blogging experiences. I've had some of the longest comments ever, which I enjoyed reading, as did others.

Of course we want to hear more about you. I love to see which bloggers are publishing books, but do get tired reading the same text on every blog I visit.

Denise

Al Penwasser said...

You may be interested....I saw Dawn of the Planet of the Apes last night. What a great movie! Plus, I didn't think it was an "anti-gun" message movie like I read about. I thought its message was actually more "There are assholes everywhere, ape and human."
Oh, I had a nerd moment: remember the name of the orangutan, Maurice? If you'll recall (like I said, Nerd Moment), the orangutan in the original Planet of the Apes, Dr. Zaius, was played by MAURICE Evans. Coincidence Perhaps. But I think not.

Kristin Smith said...

When I first started my blog, I thought I would post my experiences as a mother and writer, as well as design tips, but I quickly became pulled into the desire to help other authors promote their work. But, I think once summer is over, I will return to the initial purpose of my blog, with the occasional promotion. I think balance is the key.

I agree with all the others, it would be great to learn more about you on your blog. And yes, you playing the guitar would be pretty awesome! :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mason, that is rather amusing...

Tara, you post like I do - a mixture. I'd just like to focus more on actual releases.

Denise, I checked your blog yesterday and you had a good selection of comments.

Al, those assholes are everywhere. And good nerd moment. I missed that.

Kirstin, balance is important.

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi, Alex!

SURPRISE! I'm back... breathing again. Interesting post today.... BUT FIRST CONGRATS to all the new books out there... WOW...SO many books coming out. I can't keep up!

I remember when a blogger buddy would have a new book out every year or two. Now it's like every other day!

YES, blogging has changed ... A LOT! I noticed myself that I haven't been around as much as I normally do. Mostly it was for personal reasons, but, like so many, I am getting tired of cover reveals etc. RELEASE dates ARE GREAT but to have a cover reveal first THEN a few months later the book release is just too much. It was fine years ago when we were flooded with so many books. I am THRILLED for all of them, but I just can't keep up.

Cover reveals LACK so much imagination. It's the same at every blog. At least I TRY and make them special by creating a fun and cool intro. But no one has the time and I have cut down on them too. They won't mean as much if I do them every week.

Today, I'm featuring Lee Mckenzie's new book because it releases tomorrow...

Glad to hear you are bring back more of YOU! THAT IS WHY I come to your blog. I think WE ALL need to get back to that. Helping others is great, but we need to give of ourselves too. I can't remember the last Earthly Angels post I wrote.

I loved writing those and SADLY, I haven't run into any in a long while. Let me know if you hear of any.....

Mark said...

Snowpiercer certainly sounds unusual...but then again I'm sure Star Wars did at first too. Guess I'll have to check it out:)

Elizabeth Seckman said...

I should know almost all of those names, and yet...let's see LW&W Susanne, Peter, Edmund, Lucy.
LOTR Froto, Pippen, Merry, and Sam (oy, you did want hobbits, right?)

There were five Captains? Kirk and Picard..that's all I've got

Ghost Busters- Egon, Bill Murray, and Dan Akroyd (do you offer half credit?)

I've been thinking a lot about promos and I have an idea. I think I will save Fridays for promos (friends only- no blog tours) and I will turn off comments. The people in our hub have seen the posts a hundred times, so really, what is left to say? But I do have a few readers who are just readers (they usually comment to me at Wal Mart) and if a shout out can help a friend get a book in the hands of readers, then awesome. But all of us tired bloggers can check it out without pausing to comment. I think I will start this fall.

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Oh, and of course we want to know more about you!!

kimlajevardi.com said...

I haven't been blogging long enough to have noted changes, but I would say that a blog should have regular features about the host or something they're interested in. Otherwise, what's the point? Cover reveals and other items are fine in moderation, but the primary purpose is that specific voice. The blog must maintain some focus on that.

H. R. Sinclair said...

I read Denise's and Karen's post too and they got me thinking. Like you, I've been wondering what would be more attractive or useful or entertaining for others.

Anonymous said...

Thanks, Alex, for stopping by. I'm glad to know it's raining where you and your wife are in the Carolinas. Jen and I lived in Raleigh for 6 months, spring and summer of 2007. It was pretty dry there that summer, and has been very dry for the past almost 7 years here in Harrisonburg VA. This rain is making everything so green and pretty, and crops are flourishing, which is good.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Michael, you could write about yourself. I'm sure Melissa looks at you that way.

Elizabeth, that is a grande idea!

Kim, I think you nailed it.

Ann, rain is good!

Intangible Hearts said...

Odd and quirky--sounds right up my alley...I bet I'd like that Lego movie! Recently read an article by a blogging pro from a famous writing magazine, who suggests that blogs should be helpful to others and less about the writer--the only problem with this suggestion is that poetry is all about the writer--fortunately my intentions are to make people think something unique or to make them smile. Honestly, I wish I could make my posts less about me but then it would be a commercial blog about advertising or marketing.

Sylvia Ney said...

I'm guilty of not visiting or commenting as much in the last few months. It just seems like it's the same topics over and over again without any new viewpoint. I know I'm guilty as well. I've been considering how to revamp my own approach and still meet the needs of both beginners and "pros" alike. Perhaps, as you say, I need to provide more personalized announcements. Something to think about. I'm curious how some of my favorite bloggers will approach this as well. I'll be watching! ;-)

Sabrina A. Fish said...

And this is why I keep coming back. I've never heard of this movie, but it's definitely right up my alley and now I can't wait to hunt it down and check it out. Thanks!
Congrats to all the authors of those newly released books!
I loved the LEGO movie, but very few movies warrant a second go from me, and this one is definitely not on that list.
It saddens me how much the blogging world has changed. After the 5th of my fave bloggers stopped posting all together, I lost some of my gusto for it. I felt like I'd lost 5 family members. *sigh*
Love the trivia. Glad to see it's back!

Melissa said...

My hubby rented The Lego Movie for the kids, but they watched while I was working. Darn. I wanted to see it! LOL

Lots of good news as always. Congrats to all.

Sandra Cox said...

Way to go, Vanessa, and everyone else who's received good news.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Intangible, write what YOU want. And I wonder if my posts are helpful...?

Sylvia, there has been a lot of repetition.

Sabrina, so many of my blogger buddies have stopped and it's sad.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

I finally saw The Lego Movie last week, too. It was cute and fun, my kids loved it. :)

Unknown said...

I'd like to know more about you Alex. :)

Unknown said...

Your review of Snowpiercer really intrigued me. Yes, the premise sounds unrealistic, but I love that you acknowledged that and it still worked for you. Now I'd like to see it. Thanks!

Pink Floyd made a new album? WOW! I think The Wall is probably the greatest album of all time.

Congrats to Vanessa, Pat, Kelly, Jennifer, and Lynn!!

I just blog once a week, and I do releases not reveals. I'm excited about my new "Freebie" features though. Free stuff is AWESOME! :)

DMS said...

I am a huge Pink Floyd fan, so I am excited for whatever will come of the new album and possible tour. :)

I love seeing all the covers and learning about author news here, but I also think it is important for you to make whatever changes you think are necessary for your blog.

I could answer #1 with no problem- the others I am not 100% confident in my answers. :)
~Jess

Nick Wilford said...

The Pink Floyd album will be special to us, because Division Bell was released around the time Andrew was born and Pink Floyd were his favourite band. Definitely will be checking it out!

Compared to other social media formats, I still think blogging offers the most scope for meaningful discussion. It would be sad to see it be merely an avenue for promotion, although supporting others is one of my favourite parts.

Trivia - hmm...

1 - Edmund, Lucy, Susan, Peter
2 - Venkman, Egon... can't remember the other two even though I've seen it countless times!
3 - James T Kirk, Jean-Luc Picard, Ben Sisko (is he a captain or a commander?), Janeway, then isn't it Kirk again with Enterprise? Never watched it.
4 - Never seen it
5 - Frodo, Sam Gamgee, Pippin, Merry, Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli(??), Galadriel?

Rusty Carl said...

Trivia - trust me, I've got #'s 3,4 & 5 down. No way on 1 and not so sure I could do 2 either. Drawing a blank.

Would be glad to see more of Alex on the blog.

And couldn't agree more about the Lego movie. Finally got to see it and scratched my head a bit over all the love it's been getting.

Finally, I thought Robocop was going for a real sci fi feel with its philosophical questions. But it wasn't as much fun as Veerhoven's version.

Beatrix said...

there is a terrorist onboard evacuate! evacuate! like a extremely stubborn child whos mummy forgot to buy them any popcorn and then left them at the pictures feeling all scared and alone.

:0p

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lexa, if you can accept it, you'll dig the movie. And I need to email you about the freebie feature.

Nick, that's cool. And you were close on the trivia.

Rusty, exactly my take on those two movies.

Rumer Haven said...

I hadn't heard of Snowpiercer, but it sounds fascinating. Definitely looking into it. And though you had a lukewarm response to the Lego movie, my Lego-obsessed nephews might sick the Uni-Kitty on me if I don't finally see it. I'm surprised they've let me live this long...

As for blog adjustments, I think that's a good practice now and then, just to keep things fresh for your own sake to keep the momentum going. My Rumer blog has only just begun, but I have an older and even-more-neglected one that started out as just writing prompts, just to keep my creative gears oiled, and then it evolved to observations on writing and editing in general. But I think I'm going to return it to its origins; I think I'm more likely to keep up with it that way.

Cate Masters said...

I didn't like The Lego Movie as much as I thought I would. No good reason to make Batman a jerk to confuse kids, was there?

Leovi said...

I like Lego, wonderful movie!

Sandra Cox said...

Enjoy your weekend, Alex. Thanks for stopping by.

Shannon Lawrence said...

I agree that when the Lego Movie was funny, it was really funny, but I spent a good deal of the time bored and/or groaning. My kids, on the other hand, found it hysterical.

Heather M. Gardner said...

I wanted to watch the Chris Evans movie. I'm glad I read your review. I'll have to snag it from the library.

I didn't read the other posts but honestly, I will read your blog no matter what you post. Recipes, odes to disco, reviews on spark plugs. It doesn't matter. Its the way you write and engage that keeps me coming back.

Cause, you're awesome!

Heather

Blue Grumpster said...

Reboots should be given... the boot. That's right. A blatantly unoriginal joke to suit the subject.

The four Ghostbusters... I remember Egon and Ray. It's pathetic, I know. But in my defense... I was sitting right next to the prettiest girl in town so who would've cared about names, right? Right?

John Wiswell said...

Agh, I'm still regretting joining friends to see the garbage that was Dawn of the Planet of the Apes instead of Snowpiercer in a cinema when I had the chance! le sigh... Glad you dug it.

Carrie Butler said...

I refuse to see the remake of Robocop and ruin my nostalgia for the original. It'll be the same thing with Short Circuit. I guess I'm just weird like that. Haha :)

Brian Miller said...

i have snow piercer on the dvr...ready to watch now that i am home...i did read the graphic novel over vacation...and enjoyed...so will watch it at some point this week....have yet to see the new robocop either...will probably catch that at the redbox....

writing and living by Richard P Hughes said...

Yes, blogging is definitely changing. One of the reasons is that it's pretty time consuming and most of us are already short of time without blogging. You've got to limit yourself. A lot of bloggers seem to have stopped blogging altogether.

Robyn Campbell said...

Hmm, I'm commenter #199. I did make it in before 200. Do I win something? Like Mini-Alex doing an interview on my blog?

Pink Floyd has ALWAYS been one of my ALL TIME favorite bands. I saw them in concert. They are bodaciously COOL and EXCELLENT musicians.

I think the changes you have in mind are great. Would love the you playing guitar snippet. I agree with the email you received, Alex. I have blog ost dealing with that very subject scheduled. You are a blessing and when I HAD to post on my blog through the pain. There you were to visit me. THANK YOU! It means more than you could know.

Deniz Bevan said...

Gosh, I remember when The Division Bell was released...
I like the idea of snips of you playing guitar!
And more trivia, trivia's awesome. I know this week's #1 and 5 without even thinking, of course, but the others, hmm...

J Lenni Dorner said...

Lego Movie....

EVERYTHING IS AWESOMEEEEEEE!

;)

Snowpiercer looks cool.

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