Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Insecure Writer’s Support Group! X-Men: Apocalypse Review, June Movie Preview, Buddy Movie Trivia Answers, and Ninja News

It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. I encourage everyone to visit at least a dozen new blogs and leave a comment. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs.

My awesome co-hosts today are Murees Dupe, Alexia Chamberlynn, Chemist Ken, and Heather Gardner!
 
Last week my blog post was Does Going Through Crap Make One a Better Writer?

While tragedy and strife add to our experience, you all agreed that empathy was the quality most required. And yes, I have to agree. Experience is good, whether it comes from age, variety, or being well-traveled. (I’m blessed I’ve lived in so many places.) But being able to empathize with those going through a struggle is very important.

I did want to share one comment…

Any life experience, good or bad can be channeled into writing. But even without drama, a writer has to be tuned into nuance and detail in the real world, and have an open imagination, and then be capable of shaping all that together with with words and scenes that intrigue. Liza at Middle Passages

Thanks to everyone who responded last week! Now, be sure to visit other IWSG members.

Movie Review

X-Men: Apocalypse
Now sure what film critics saw. I’ve never read the comics – maybe the movie didn’t jive? Regardless, I don’t get it. Because I enjoyed it.
If you liked the last two X-Men film, you’ll like this one. It brings back favorites and introduces new twists. One thing this trilogy does better than the first trilogy is depth of character, especially with Magneto.
Special effects – amazing. 3D all the way if you want the full effect.
Once again, Quicksilver steals the movie. His prime moment is the stand-out piece of the film.
Only complaint is the length. It could have been shaved by fifteen minutes or so.
A lot has been said about the last twenty minutes of the film, but I thought it was great and very exciting.
If you dig superhero movies, it’s a no-brainer – go see it!


Ninja News

Sylvia Ney posted about Southern Writers Magazines’s short story contest. For more details, visit their SITE.

Black and White Publishing Company is now accepting flash fiction for their UBooks. See their submission guidelines for details.

New releases-

Trouble By Any Other Name by Lori MacLaughlin
Tara Triannon is no stranger to trouble…
Find it at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and iTunes

Brothers-In-Arms by Jack Lewis Baillot



Movie Trivia Answers – Buddy Movies

1 – Robert De Niro, Charles Grodin 1988 – Midnight Run
2 – Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith 1997 – Men in Black
3 – Nick Nolte, Eddie Murphy, 1982 – 48 Hrs
4 – David Spade, John Goodman 2000 – The Emperor’s New Groove
5 – Sylvester Stallone, Kurt Russell 1989 – Tango and Cash
6 – Jackie Chan, Chris Tucker 1998 – Rush Hour
7 – Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy 2001 - Shrek

June Movie Preview

Here are the upcoming theatrical releases for June! As always, descriptions courtesy of the IMDB. Snark provided by me.

3 -

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows
The Turtles return to save the city from a dangerous threat.
Director: Dave Green
Stars: Megan Fox, Will Arnett, Tyler Perry, Laura Linney
The first was an unpleasant surprise. This one will also be unpleasant but it won’t be a surprise.





10 -


The Conjuring 2
Lorraine and Ed Warren travel to north London to help a single mother raising four children alone in a house plagued by malicious spirits.
Director: James Wan
Stars: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Franka Potente, Maria Doyle Kennedy
The first was a pleasant surprise. We’ll see if the second one can scare up a good time.


Now You See Me 2
The Four Horsemen resurface and are forcibly recruited by a tech genius to pull off their most impossible heist yet.
Director: Jon M. Chu
Stars: Lizzy Caplan, Mark Ruffalo, Daniel Radcliffe, Jesse Eisenberg
The first was a pleasant surprise. We’ll see if the sequel retains the magic.


Warcraft
The peaceful realm of Azeroth stands on the brink of war as its civilization faces a fearsome race of invaders: orc warriors fleeing their dying home to colonize another. As a portal opens to connect the two worlds, one army faces destruction and the other faces extinction. From opposing sides, two heroes are set on a collision course that will decide the fate of their family, their people, and their home.
Director: Duncan Jones
Stars: Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Ben Foster, Dominic Cooper
The game was a pleasant surprise. The movie looks like a generic mess.



17 –

Finding Dory
The friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish reunites with her loved ones, and everyone learns a few things about the real meaning of family along the way.
Directors: Andrew Stanton | Angus MacLane
Stars: Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Idris Elba, Kate McKinnon
Finding Nemo was a pleasant surprise. We’ll see if Dory sinks or swims.





24 –

Independence Day: Resurgence
Two decades after the first Independence Day invasion, Earth is faced with a new extra-Solar threat. But will mankind's new space defenses be enough?
Director: Roland Emmerich
Stars: Maika Monroe, Liam Hemsworth, Joey King, William Fichtner
The first was a ridiculously over-bloated surprise. Pretty sure this one will at least be over-bloated.


Anyone else pleasantly surprised by X-Men? Get any of the trivia right? What movie catches your eye for June? And what is your insecurity this month…?

150 comments:

Deniz Bevan said...

I've got a sad post today for IWSG :-(
I hope the Dory movie is as good as Finding Nemo!
I doubt I'll see Warcraft -- I'm kinda interested in it thought because it's Bowie's son directing...

Hey, look! First to comment!

Tim Knight said...

Didn't get to see X-Men in the end, so will wait for the home video release now. I actually enjoyed the first Turtles pic, so am cautiously optimistic for this one. I love the original ID4 and am quite pumped for the sequel... although I fear it might suffer from a surfeit of CGI special effects!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - it's finding our voice and thus our audience - even a few to start with, solidifying our position and then branching out ...

I saw the Miles Davis biographical about the incredible jazz musician - it was very interesting ... a bit too much swearing - but that was life in those times and then ...

Here's to IWSG security with your writing in the months to come .. cheers Hilary

Nicola said...

Some great movies to see there, Alex. Thanks to all the awesome co-hosts this month. Wish you a super week and an even super-er month :)

Ray Rousell said...

I like the X-Men series of films, probably not enough to go to the cinema to watch them, but I'll catch it on DVD or online. I am looking forward t Warcraft though, that does look a good flick.

Heather R. Holden said...

I'm so out-of-touch with pop-culture, I hadn't even been aware that there was a new X-Men movie out. (Haha, whoops.)

nashvillecats2 said...

Always something for everyone on your post Alex. Loved the film reviews and of course the books. The only films I watch are ones on TV since I gave up on the cinema many years ago. Saying that if Danny Boy was to make a film perhaps I may be tempted.
Yvonne..

Rachel Pattinson said...

I really wanted to go and see X-men, but me and my fiancé are a little short on money this month, so proabbly going to wait and buy the DVD later in the year. My sister enjoyed it though. Can't wait to see Finding Dory!

Suzanne Furness said...

I like Liza's comment. It was interesting to read people's thoughts on this topic recently. Now I must go write my IWSG post... I'll have something up later... maybe it's a good sign that I haven't written it yet as I haven't really any 'new' insecurities writing wise.

Lynn La Vita said...

I haven't seen the movies, but I'm reading your reviews with interest.

Last week I was asked to review my first book. I see a parallel between movies and books reviews. Both may influenced someone to see the movie or a reader buy a book.

My insecurity? I have two:
1. Can I write a review that does the book justice?
2. Can I get the medical help my husband needs?

J.H. Moncrieff said...

I'm so looking forward to Conjuring 2! I loved the first one. I really, really hope they don't blow it.

Does that count as an insecurity? ;)

Rhonda Albom said...

X-Men was one of the movies they showed on our recent cruise. As for the trivia, I can't believe I missed Shrek - I didn't think outside the box. Welcome back. Hope your weekend was good.

ViolaFury said...

I love the snark, Alex. I'm one of those people that haven't been able to get into the X-Men franchise. I love the Marvel series; Daredevil, The Punisher and thought Netflix did a wonderful job with them. As for the DC franchise, I adore Batman, and I really thought that Superman v. Batman (or vice-versa) wasn't nearly as bad as the critics said it was, so it's understandable that your opinion is probably better than any critic's. Of course, I thought the live-action/animated "Rocky and Bullwinkle" with Robert De Niro, who produced and played the Fearless Leader in that movie was right on the money, so I have no idea what the critics expected. It was like they'd never seen a "Rocky and Bullwinkle" cartoon, nor understood the underlying subversiveness of the whole enterprise. Sometimes, I think the critics need to go back to the source material before they just jump in with both feet! Anyway, thanks for all you do for us, Alex! <3

Lan said...

I'm in two minds about X-men. I love the franchise and it was my favourite cartoon as a child but some of the casting in the last three movies has really gotten on my nerves and is making me not want to want it. Sad. More my problem than theirs really.

Just Keepin It Real, Folks! said...

I'm excited to see Finding Dory and I think it's going to be a blockbuster hit. And I hope The Conjuring 2 does as well as the first. My friend was the production assistant on the first and it was filmed here in Wilmington and was a huge boost for our local film industry.

Sean McLachlan said...

Thanks for the flash fiction tip. Our writers group here in Madrid was talking about flash fiction markets last night. I'll share this.

Mason Canyon said...

Congrats to those with new releases. I thought X-Men was good and the special effects amazing. I'll probably give Warcraft a look just because of Travis Fimmel (enjoyed watching him in Vikings on the History Channel). Wondering about Independence Day: Resurgence, but will probably watch it too.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

I was finally able to pull myself out of my funk enough to see Captain America: Winter Soldier. I was actually planning to see Angry Birds on this matinee and Cap later in the week regular price. But in a twist Angry Birds sold out early and I was not staying home so I saw Cap finally. Movie blew my mind. Plan to see X-Men soon and yes I want to see TMNT2. I know it won't be gold but I had fun watching the first one at home. At least the actors playing the turtles can't be blamed for any of the mishandling.

Liza is one smart cookie. Indeed empathy is essential and glad to be among those encouraging people last week. :)

NYSM2 will be a surprise in some way. Hopefully it will be all positive. Finding Dory should do swimmingly. The animated summer movie I'm pumped to see is Secret Life of Pets. Hiyo to all featured today and much love Alex.

Truedessa said...

Good Morning Alex,

Watching X-Men is on the to do list. I didn't go near the theaters over the weekend. I did rent Everest and it made me wonder what is the driving force that makes people go on this expedition? To reach the summit the highest point on earth. Is it worth your life? I am reminded that we all have this inner force that compels us to do certain things in the journey of life. Could it be an inner calling?
I haven't decided whether I will see Independence Day:Resurgence.

Welcome back and have a wonderful! Make it count :)

Truedessa said...

Ok, "Have a Wonderful Day! not sure where day went..lol..

kaykuala said...

X-Men and finding Dory are two of the ones mentioned by Hank's grandees. Perhaps they get to see them first. Hank will wait for the online Inflix whenever they appear. Did not get any of the Trivia though!

Hank

Cathrina Constantine said...

Liza at Middle Passages is so right. Great Comment.

I'm going to the movies with a group of girls this Friday. I'm more of an action packed type girl whereas they like girlie movies. I'm outvoted... :( But hope to see X-men soon.

I did like the first Independence Day!

The Angry Lurker said...

I agree about Now You See Me 2 Alex!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Great quote from Liza. So agree.

I just saw Money Monster (think that's the title) with George Clooney and Julia Roberts. I know it released earlier than June, but it was really good. I don't go to the movies much but was glad I saw this one.

Gossip_Grl said...

My grandson is only here until the weekend, but he'll be back in a few weeks. He wants to go see the new Angry Birds movie coming out. So I guess we'll be seeing Angry Birds II. :)

Liza said...

Yeow! Look at that. A quote on the master's page! Thank you, Alex! A little something to help me with my insecurity this month (and beyond...) I for one, am rooting for Dory (based on how I write, are you surprised?). Nemo WAS a pleasant surprise, so fingers crossed for "Just Keep Swimming..."

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Deniz, I'm sorry. And yes, you are first!

Tim, looks like an overload of CGI this time.

Yvonne, you'd have to see it.

Suzanne, that is a good sign.

Lynn, really pray the second one is a yes.

JH, yes!

Rhonda, I knew the two animated films would throw people.

Viola, I liked the Superman v Batman as well. It had issues but still delivered for me.

Deb, that's really cool!

Sheena-kay, wasn't Civil War awesome? Best movie so far this year.

Truedessa, I'm just not one of those driven people to risk death climbing a mountain. And I can have a wonderful as well!

Cathrina, bummer.

Liza, you're welcome!

Unknown said...

I agree, it's not necessarily experiences that make us better writers, but being able to empathize with those experiences, good or bad.

I've never played WoW but I'm going to see the movie anyway, cause Travis Fimmel. :P

Crystal Collier said...

We liked Xmen, although I thought the linear approach to telling the story left something to be desired. Not saying it was bad, it was just linear. *shrugs* I've been spoiled by the Avengers series and the depth of writing that goes into those films.

There are quite a few films I'm excited about this summer, and so many we'll wait to rent. That's always the way, eh?

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I love a good ghost story, so I'm excited for The Conjuring 2. Plus finding Dory. I still remember seeing Ellen DeGeneres perform live in a comedy club in ABQ almost 25 years ago. She is too funny.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

Great comment from Liza!

I'm up for The Conjuring 2 and maybe a couple of others. Recently saw The Witch - ugh, stopped watching it - and Sicario - eh, my husband enjoyed it more than I did.

Jennifer Hawes said...

I can't wait to see X-men with my boys! I've been told to ignore the reviews because it's really good. Glad you agree!

Spanj said...

I have heard terrible things about X Men Apocalypse. I love all the other movies, but, like you, I have never read the comics. I'm looking forward to seeing it, although it probably won't be until the DVD release. I don't really get the chance to go to the cinema these days.

mshatch said...

I'm looking forward to the new Independence Day. Yes, the first one was ridiculous, but it was fun and sometimes that's good enough - especially if you have decent actors. I'll reserve judgement on Xmen until I see it...

Yolanda Renée said...

Empathy is a necessary quality for a writer, true! Imagination too!
Can't wait to see the X-men, just watched the last one yesterday. So many good movies and Tarzan?! Just saw the trailer.

Happy June!

Nick Wilford said...

Great quote from Liza! I'm always trying to have more empathy. Wow, that's a whole lot of sequels or remakes or other stuff. I've got a soft spot for Independence Day though, I think being so OTT made it in a weird way. I would watch the new one!

Murees Dupè said...

You always know how to cheer us up, Alex. Thank you. My family loves superhero movies, so I shall be seeing X-men if I want to or not:) I appreciate a good movie. There's a new Independence Day movie coming out? Really? I must have been living under a rock because I didn't know that. Also, Finding Dory could be fun. Have a great week/weekend Alex.

EEGiorgi said...

Happy June, Alex and glad to hear you enjoyed X-Men, we're going this week-end :-)

Diane Burton said...

Thanks for posting Liza's comment. So true. I'm looking forward to the new Independence Day movie. I loved the 1st one. Overbloated? Doesn't matter. :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Megan, I played the original games before it became online only.

Madeline, I did like Sicario.

Jennifer, yes! Ignore the reviews.

Murees, I try!

Chemist Ken said...

I think going through crap can help the writer, but mostly because it prepares them for all the hurdles they have to beat in order to be successful at it.

I'll see if I can get my family to see the X-men movie. Is it worth watching if you have seen the first two of the series?

Pat Hatt said...

Yeah, it was way better for a 3rd in the trilogy than that X3 mess. Some fun ones this month, hopefully Independence Day is just as overbloated and fun as the first.

Bish Denham said...

Liza's comment rings loud and true, it's the tortured artist syndrome. I may not have that drama in my life any more, but I can still draw on it.

Finding Dory sounds about my speed. :)

Anonymous said...

Thanks for posting my book release, Alex! I really like that quote from Liza. Finding Dory should be a cute movie. Your snarky comments made me laugh. I got 6 out of the 7 trivia questions right. I think that's a record. Off to do IWSG visits. Have a great rest of the week!

Dean K Miller said...

"Turtles" movies never appealed to me. Warcraft maybe, but not a gamer so does that help or hurt?

Lisa does nail it with her quote.

Most likely I'll end up seeing "Finding Dory."

H. R. Sinclair said...

I haven't seen the new X-men yet, but I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it! The June movies don't really interest me. :(

Tamara Narayan said...

That writing contest looks like something I might enter, but 1500 words! Oh, the pain of brevity. I'd like to see Conjuring 2, but will probably wait for Redbox on that one. I did watch some YouTube videos on the case. My family will want to see Finding Dory. We're already buying mini-figures. I can't believe the amount of money I've been spending on little bits of colored plastic and rubber over the past two years between Minecraft mini-figures and Shopkins. Insanity.

Unknown said...

I am ALL about Finding Dory! I can't wait!

Arlee Bird said...

The previews for the Mutant Turtle movie have seemed kind of interesting, but on the other hand I haven't paid much attention to those trailers either. Just seen them on the periphery of my attention span. Probably won't be seeing this one or many if any of the other movies. Maybe the Independence Day Recycled film since I usually like Emmerich's over-the-top effects and nonsense.

So many movies with "Apocalypse" and related things in the title of late. I wonder if we are being prepared for something?

Arlee Bird
A to Z Challenge Co-host
Tossing It Out

Chrys Fey said...

I haven't seen X-Men yet, but I really want to. I enjoy all of the X-Men movies.

Liza's comment is perfect. I remember reading it last month in the comment section. :)

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

We're too far away from a theatre to see anything. I'll have to catch up when they're available online. Sadly. Great to see Lori's Book everywhere. Happy IWSG, Captain.

Charles Gramlich said...

I have an urge to see the new Ninja turltes

msmariah said...

Hi Alex! I'm one of those people holding off seeing this one. I'll probably wait for it to come to the dollar theater. I did the same for BvS. Although I actually ended up enjoying BvS more than I thought I would!

Loni Townsend said...

I've sometimes wondered if I'm a sociopath because it's tough for me to be empathetic at times. I admire those people who do have more empathy than me.

I'm going to go watch Warcraft on release day. I used to play WoW over 5 years ago and my old guild mates want to get together to do pizza and a movie. We're up to almost 20 people. I'm not sure how much of the movie I'll relate to, since I never played Warcraft, but I figure my husband can fill me in on the details since he did.

Patricia Stoltey said...

My choice from that list of movies is "Finding Dory!" Might try Independence Day. Sometimes a little bit of ridiculous is just what we need to make us giggle. Giggling is good.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I didn't see the X-Men movie. I'll wait to rent it on TV. I'm looking forward the Independence Day, bloated or not. I am finding I enjoy movies more and more in my own home.

SK Anthony said...

I'm very excited to watch the new X-Men. I'm so glad you liked it!!! I'm actually looking forward to Finding Dory lol and NYSM2. Maybe Indepence Day: Resurgence, but definitely not TMNT . . . really? They had to do another one? :-/

Anyway lol

I think Liza definitely hit the nail on the head with her comment. And I agree, empathy is most important than having tragic life experiences (and obviously better as far as luck lol). The way I see it, some may go through so much tragedy they become cold to the world and then how does that benefit writing realistic emotions if they're a writer? Not to mention how sad it is in general. That being said, I somehow write the most, and feel the best about it, when I'm upset lol

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Ken, you might miss a few things. Have you seen the other films?

Lori, you're welcome, and you did good on the trivia.

Dean, that might actually help...

Tamara, that's funny.

Lee, might be headed towards Judgement Day...

Lori, I think you'll be able to follow the plot.

SK, very good point!

Rachna Chhabria said...

I loved Liza's comment, it was absolutely on the spot where writers and life's experiences are concerned. Its been a long time since I have watched a movie, right now I am just wading through my sky-high TBR pile of books.

Sand Castles and Snow Forts said...

Hoping for Dory and Independence Day to be great... we shall see. Wanting to see Through the Looking Glass. Have you seen it?

Cherie Reich said...

Liza's comment was spot on. I think the X-Men movie looks good. Sometimes the critics don't know what people like.

Brandon Ax said...

I am learning that experience can be good for writing, but if it is bad it can also delay that writing. I guess that is life.

I am waiting to see X-men. I guess being a comic fan I have not really been too happy with them. I might just wait until DVD. I am actually really excited for Warcraft. Loved the game and the nostalgia is strong with this one.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

It is empathy derived from distress that aids in our writing. If tragedy causes us to be self-centered and bitter, our writing will become as brittle as we have become. I am waiting for DR. STRANGE in movies and not much else ... except for ROGUE ONE which I hear is having problems. Sigh. Disney, just let the director have his way -- then you can blame him when it bombs! :-)

Tyrean Martinson said...

I loved X-Men, and I agree with you on the depth of character presented in this trilogy and with this last in the trilogy. I thought it was well done, and I wouldn't shave any time from it.

Way to go, Lori and Jack!!!

(And for me, I will go see TMNT anyway, since I read the original, black and white comic book I've been a fan of the cheese and the silliness. But, I will see it a cheap (half-price, a month late) theater.

Ah, I wish I could make such awesome comments like Liza and so many others. I love Liza's thoughtfulness. I'm more of a stop and wave wildly kind of comment-er.

Happy Summer, Alex!



Andrew Leon said...

Does someone need a surprise?
Do you have a birthday coming up or something?

Jen said...

I'm not too keen on any movies coming out. I'll probably see Independence Day just because I'm curious to see how it holds up to the first one. I never hold out much hope for sequels.

As for insecurities, I'm doing pretty good this month. Posted about some rearranging and getting re-inspired.

Cheers!
Jen

A Beer for the Shower said...

This post was a pleasant surprise.

I'll be honest, Quicksilver is pretty much the only reason I want to see the new X-men film. If it's great, well, that's a bonus too.

And I can admit, I played World of Warcraft for years... fun game... but I have no desire to see the movie. Looks just awful.

Kalpana said...

The only consolation of going through crap is that you will have something absolutely brilliant to write about. And, if someone else is going through a bad time, empathy puts you in their shoes and again you can write about it, but from a different perspective - the outside, looking in.

Joanne said...

glad you quoted Liza - she just doesn't know what a good writer she is, and she makes a good point. Movies - based on some critic reviews I had moved XMen back, now based on Alex - I'll go see it. Your summation of upcoming flicks is hysterical and no doubt spot on. I've been aiming for the "little" flicks - go see Love & Friendship!! Hard to believe it's June - I'm ignoring insecurity and embracing summer lazy (outside of actual real paying work) Ha!

J.Q. Rose said...

What a surprising take on several of the new movies coming out. I'd like to see Finding Dory, but it will be a surprise if it lives up to Nemo. One movie reviewer said they took 13 years after Nemo to develop Dory because they wanted to do it right. Thanks for sharing the comment from your reader. Excellent point.

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I also enjoyed X-Men: Apocalypse. Quicksilver's scenes are a great distraction from the story as they are done with a lot of fun in mind. I also liked seeing Olivia Munn as psylocke, but I think Angel was my least favorite of the on-screen mutants.

Jeffrey Scott said...

I do like Super Hero films. But it's an odd thing. I'm more of a DC comic book person, but I have to admit something. The Marvel films are so much better than the DC. I'm not sure why, but I love the Marvel films. In fact, I embarked on a new project. I went to my favourite second hand DVD store I picked up all the Marvel films I needed to fill in the gaps and over the next two months, I endeavour to watch them all. I'm excited because there are a few I have never seen. Though when I'll find time to watch all the films is beyond me. I need to make more time for writing, not watching films. As it stands, I'll probably not get to see Apocolypse till it finally arrives on DVD. I'm sad, but true. Still, I'm hoping to get around to seeing Civil War in the theatre. Only time will tell if I actually do that.

Al Penwasser said...

Didn't grow up an X-Men fan, but I'm looking forward to this movie.

Erika Beebe said...

I like several of the June movies on your list. Dory will be a for sure thing. My kids adore the blue fish. And I do want to see X Men too. I never agree with three critics. I will go because I want to go and something I saw in the preview caught my eye. Thank you Alex for the great post today.

stephen Hayes said...

Hard to believe we need another installment of Independence Day, but then Hollywood is known for its lack of imagination.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sand Castles, no, I haven't.

Brandon, a little like the force?

Roland, they need to let Edwards do what he does best.

Tyrean, you do make awesome comments.

Andrew, not mine!

Brandon and Bryan, it does look awful. And you will so dig Quicksilver's scene. Even better than the last film.

Joanne, just go and enjoy the film.

JQ, that's still a long time...

Michael, I can always look at Olivia Munn!

Jeffrey, Marvel does do them better. Hope DC can catch up. Make an effort to see Civil War in theaters though. So worth it.

Birgit said...

This is why I hear what critics say but still make up my own mind. The critics are the same people who thought It's A Wonderful Life was poor and the same who think In the Bedroom (or as i like to say In Boredom) should win a Pulitzer. I did get some of the trivia right! These movies don't interest me all that much. I might like Finding Dory but Independence Day?? Ughhhh

Gwen Gardner said...

Finding Dory is just about my speed. And of course, who doesn't love Ellen DeGeneres, she's so funny. I hope it's good. Loved Finding Nemo too.

Thanks for the updates, Alex!

Elephant's Child said...

The Great Barrier Reef is in trouble. And an enterprising eleven year old has contacted Ellen DeGeneres to lobby our government to set it right. I hope she is successful. I hope there is time left.

John Wiswell said...

I also dug X-Men: Apocalypse! Much better than critics led me to believe. Clunky at parts and certainly overpacked with characters, but I enjoyed it all the way through. Really dug Jean, Scott, and Psylocke.

Juneta key said...

Did not go out to the movies but did watch The Choice on digital. I have Gods of Egypt to watch. I will probably also rewatch the new Star Wars and bonus features. I have been reading more this month, plus beta reads overextended a little but still got'em done.

I'd like to see X-Men. I own them all and will own this one probably when released on digital so have the whole collection.

I loved Independence Day overblown or not, and a little over focused on the American slant, but I still loved it and want to see the new one. I hope they don't spoil it.

Insecurity? Lack of confidence, feeling helpless to change anything and the doldrums. Other than that, I'm great. LOL. I'm good really just on the downside of the roller coaster hill and it was steeper than I thought.

Juneta @ Writer's Gambit


Unknown said...

Thanks for the shout-out Alex!

S.A. Larsenッ said...

Ninja Turtles...yeah, I'm thinking they've worn out their welcome. Probably just me, though. Now Warcraft I want to see! My 12yr-old already asked to go see it, so naturally I thought he meant with me. Uh...nope. He was like, "I'm not going to the movies with my mom." Me - sad face.

Adrienne Reiter said...

My insecurity of the month is to let my manuscript go and stop editing myself into oblivion. Happens every time a finish a MSS. I need to watch X-Men already. Ha!

kimlajevardi.com said...

I love Liza's quote. I'm not really looking forward to any of those particular movies at the moment, but that's because my brain is in full-revision mode. Once I make some use of my summer break for my revisions, I'll be able to look at the real world again. Maybe a movie at that point. :)

Sandra Cox said...

Did you have a wonderful time away?
I'm looking forward to Independence Day.

cleemckenzie said...

If we never experience the crap, how can we write about it? I loved Finding Dory. I'm an animated movie fan and if they engage kids and convey positive messages, I'm there 100%

shelly said...

Hi, Alex! Totally forgot about this being the first Wednesday of the month again.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

I haven't seen any of the movies. Really, I seldom go to the theater or watch much TV. Too busy reading and writing, I guess. I do watch a DVD every now and then. Have the last Hunger Games to watch, along with the Outlander TV Series, since I don't have cable.

Liz A. said...

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles... Sigh. I remember the first time I heard of them. Back when I worked at the toy store, someone came in asking for them. And I couldn't get my head around the words coming out of their mouth. I still don't get it.

Jenni said...

Since I missed your post last week, I just have to agree with what the others have said about empathy. I also think knowing how to tell a good story is more important that living through a traumatic ordeal. Sure, whatever you've gone through or experienced can be used in your writing, but some of my favorite books are just about everyday life told well.

Tonja Drecker said...

So many good movies are out this summer. And X-Men is on my list. Hope enjoyed your break!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Elephant's Child, good for her.

John, I don't know what movie they saw...

Juneta, I know I'll buy it when it comes out on DVD. And saw that Gods of Egypt was now available to watch. I am curious.

Melanie, you're welcome!

Sheri, that's sad...

Sandra, it was refreshing! I could save up my energy for today...

Shelly, no worries.

Liz, it started as a joke!

T, I did!

Toi Thomas said...

Haven't seen X-Men yet, but I want to.
Didn't figure out #1 of the trivia.
I'll admit I'm totally looking forward to Finding Dory; it's the teacher in me.
My insecure is myself this month. I dropped the ball, but I'm working on picking it back up.

Heather M. Gardner said...

ALEX!

Honestly, I'm not even sure we saw the last X-men movie. Maybe I'll get it from the library. :) I like them, but it's like too complicated for my little brain.

I think I got some of the trivia right!

I never like any of the turtle shows or movies, BUT, this one will have Stephen Amell, so I'll watch it when it comes out on video. :)

Dory & Independence Day should be fun at least.

Thanks, Alex!
Heather

Anonymous said...

Hubby and I have to make plans to get over to Canada to see the new Xmen. We both like how it looks and I LOVE Psyclock. (Did I spell that right? Too lazy to look it up. XD)

Unknown said...

Need to make time to see X-men this weekend!

Jo said...

I like the look of the X Men. I hope it will be a pleasant surprise.

Christine Rains said...

Good to hear everyone agreed empathy was more valuable than experience. Imagination is powerful, but empathy makes it believable. Love your comments about the upcoming releases! *LOL* I might see Angry Birds this week, but I'd rather see Captain America! I finally watched The Revenant, and thought it excellent. Though it could have been shaved down by 15 or 20 minutes.

Shannon Lawrence said...

You didn't like the first Independence Day? I did, but I'm super easy to please when it comes to action/special effects movies. I'm hesitantly looking forward to Conjuring 2, but am afraid they're going to ruin the pleasant surprise we got in the first one.

L.G. Keltner said...

I love Liza's comment! There's so much truth there.

I'm probably not going to make it to the movies this month. I've got a lot of editing and pre-release stuff to do, plus I have kids who want to learn to ride bikes without training wheels and learn to swim this summer. I'm going to be pretty busy. I'll catch up with movies in a few months.

Gail said...

I am fans of Ed and Lorraine.

I can give a movie review. I just saw watched a movie from 2000 and it was new to me.

Have a great week.

XmasDolly said...

Thank you so much for stopping by, and the review of Xmen, but actually I was kind of looking for a review on finding Dory, and to find out if it was any good or not. I thought maybe you probably wouldn't have seen it it being a cartoon and all, but Xmen is another movie I was hoping to get a chance to see, and now with your review I will definitely go see it with the hubby. Thanks much!!!! hugs and have a great week!!!

Elizabeth Alsobrooks said...

I must surely have more empathy than I need. That's probably why like King I like to make my characters sympathetic and then let the monsters loose.

Elizabeth said...

Yes, empathy is important and I like that comment from Liza. I have actually been thinking a lot about imagination this last month and its importance in writing. When I flipped the calendar to June, this month's very appropriate quote was: "The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination."

Yay for X-Men and Finding Dory! Your snark on TMNT made me LOL :)

alexia said...

Happy IWSG! I loved X-Men. Yeah, no clue about the critics. They're just weird sometimes :)

Helena said...

I want to see Finding Dory, and even though I really HATE being scared and generally don't like horror movies, I enjoyed The Conjuring and Ed and Lorraine. So maybe I'll make myself brave and go see The Conjuring 2.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Really liked Lisa's comment!

I love animated films so I am going to be totally watching Finding Dory...horror films scare me silly, but I end up watching anyways, edge of my seat eyes wide shut most of the time...

Unknown said...

I like the old X-men with Patrick Stewart.

Congrats to Lori and Jack on their new releases!

I loved Independence Day, but with Will, Jeff, Bill, and Judd and the other great actors, not the lame newcomers. :P

Thanks for keeping me updated abut movies. I'd never know anything if it weren't for you. :)

G. B. Miller said...

About the only insecurity that I had for the month was whether or not I would be able to get a cover for my book. I wanted to try someone new, but had a small problem in getting hold of them. I did eventually succeed, but at the same time, I got a few leads from other people for graphic designers as well.

Not much of a movie goer these days, especially when ticket prices are somewhere in the neighborhood of buying a half-tank of gasoline for the car. I usually wait until they come to the pay movie channels.

Father Nature's Corner

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Toi, you will!

Patricia, Psylocke - very close.

Christine, go see Civil War.

Shannon, I did like it. I just know the second one will be even more over the top.

Gail that made me chuckle.

Marie, we see all the animated films. When it comes out, I will post a review.

Elizabeth, I like that quote.

Alexia, they are.

Lexa, I'll keep you informed.

GB, that's why we always to to the matinees.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

What happened to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles? They haven't aged well. Have they, Alex?

The Cynical Sailor said...

I had no idea they were making another Independence Day movie. I enjoyed the first one, but I don't think I'd go to the cinema to see the sequel. I rarely go to the cinema anymore. I've been too disappointed in the past paying to see a movie that didn't meet expectations. It seems like the trailers are better than many of the actual movies these days. Cheers - Ellen

Michelle Wallace said...

Hope you enjoyed your mini holiday, Alex!
Writing insecurity never ends...just as you manage to deal with one thing, then another rears its ugly head.

Angela Brown said...

There is much to be said of experience and it's impact on the writing an author produces. There are times I'd rather be pulling from my imagination only instead of knowing the deeper, darker truths that I have touched upon in some of my stories.

Finding Dory is definitely on the radar. My kiddo and I can't wait!

Unknown said...

Empathy is an important trait for a writer. Not only to get inside the heroine and heroine's head to understand them - but also the villain. What makes that character tick? It's often more fun to investigate that.
Tweeted

Tony Laplume said...

Magneto and Quicksilver were indeed the highlights. The thing about writing is the mantra, write what you know. Not everyone has the pain. But everyone has experiences. The less authentic your writing is, the less successful you've been in writing what you know.

Sherry Ellis said...

My kids and I are looking forward to seeing Finding Dory. I hope it lives up to all the hype.

F. Stone said...

Hmm, should I go to the theatre more often? Am I missing some good entertainment, inspiration, maybe tasty popcorn? Problem is movies have been really disappointing in this decade. I still prefer the movies and actors of my youth. Bette Davis, Judy Garland, John Wayne - what happened to real acting skills; and they didn't need all that supped up techno jazz. God help me, I'm still in love with Errol Flynn. LOL

Patsy said...

I NEVER get any trivia right! (Well, I think I did once)

mail4rosey said...

We'll have to see TMNT. I have an 8yr old. ;) I haven't seen any of the XMen movies, but I bet I'd like them.

Sandra Cox said...

Kudos to you and the awesome co-hosts:)
We appreciate ya.

Kristin Smith said...

Sorry I'm a little late getting over here!! I'm so excited about all these great movies coming out! I think the X-Men movie looks awesome as well as the new Independence Day and Now You See Me. I know my kids will love Finding Dory.

Huge congrats to Lori on the release of her sequel!!

J.L. Campbell said...

Good insight from Liza. Life does provide great fodder for our writing.
Haven't seen the movies.

klahanie said...

Hey Alex,

How's it goin', eh?

That's an excellent quoted comment by, Liza.

"IWSG" and it good to note you can access the group via so many social notworking, sorry, networking sites.

Been ages since I went to see a film so I cannot comment.

Well done to Lori and Jack.

Here's to you and your clones, Alex.

Gary

Mary Aalgaard said...

Sometimes it's fun to just sit and enjoy a good super hero movie. I'd like to see something original this summer. Most likely that will happen on the stage and not film. Hollywood is stuck in a rut.

DMS said...

I haven't seen X-Men, but one of my friends did and they enjoyed it too. Not many movies coming out that I really want to see- but I do want to see Finding Dory. :)

Thanks for sharing!
~Jess

Cherdo said...

I've met the Warrens (The Conjuring 2) way back when...if you didn't talk to them about ghosts & spirits, they reminded you of your grandparents.

Spot on assessment of Independence Day (#1), ha ha.

Have a great weekend, Alex! (Son came through surgery great; mom exhausted for no reason, lol).

Stephen Tremp said...

Hmmmmm ....methinks I see a pattern in your sequel reviews. Special effect can make an average movie or even a bad one. Often it's the supporting cast that help make a movie such as the psychotic penguins or the monkeys from Madagascar. Or the sloths from Zootopia. Or the three-eyed little toy alien squeeze toys (you are our master from Toy Story. The octopus from Finding Dory could be such a character that helps vault this movie forward.

Cynthia said...

I loved Finding Nemo and would be interested in seeing Finding Dory.

Pat Garcia said...

Alex,

I love your quote because it is so true. Everything that takes place in and around you can be counted as a positive learning experience and broadens your writing.

I have also Trouble By Any Other Name on my TBR list.

Shalom Aleichem,
Patricia

Anonymous said...

My hubby enjoyed X-Men. I'm waiting for Ghostbusters. That looks like it'll be funny.

I loved Conjuring. I'm hopeful the second one won't disappoint!

Sandra Cox said...

Have a great weekend, Alex.

Robin said...

I have enjoyed the X-Men franchise enormously, but then I don't read the comics. So there is that. I've liked it even better since they introduced the younger versions of the characters. I look forward to seeing this movie.

H.R. Bennett said...

I've been considering seeing Apocalypse, but my problem is that I haven't seen ANY of the more recent X-Men's, so I know I have to play catchup.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Robyn, they aren't teens anymore...

Tony, good point.

Thanks, Sandra!

Cherdo, good to hear! And cool you've met the Warrens.

Robin, I'm a DC guy, so I've not read the comics either.

Robert, it would be easier to follow having seen the other two.

Anonymous said...

Going through bad times helped me develop the thick skin I needed for rejection and gives me different viewpoints that I can write about. I have much empathy for others.

Shadow said...

If you've felt it, or you feel it, you can write it. I wouldn't be able to write something someone a situation without sOmEthIng being fact.

Ooooo, been waiting for The Conjuring. At last!!!

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

I like Vera Farminga (sp?) in whatever film or TV show she is in: I find her combination of vulnerability and smoking hot fierceness fascinating. I used to act to I study her whether she is appearing in Bates Motel or in a film--looking forward to seeing Conjuring 2.

jean :)

Jennifer Lane said...

Sounds like it was a great discussion over your blog post. I do believe suffering is necessary for great art. I loved the movie Midnight Run! But superhero movies aren't my thing--I'm way tired of them.

dolorah said...

I was never able to get into comic books, but I did love the X-Men cartoon series as a kid, and I have loved every movie. For some reason, I prefer my super hero's (and super villians) on the screen as opposed to the page. I'm like that with spy movies too.

Mina Burrows said...

Hi Alex! Hope all is well. I'm dying to see the Xmen movie. Thanks for the review.

The new releases look exciting.

I'm a bit behind posting for IWSG but I'll get on in shortly. I agree you can Chanel your experiencing into writing. So true!

Leovi said...

Yes, undoubtedly empathy is very important for all writers of all the literary genres!

Stephanie Faris said...

I don't know how I missed this one! I could have sworn I commented on it. Ugh! I used to love June because that was when all the good movies came out. I don't make it to the movies very often anymore, though!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Ha, I've got plenty to channel into my writing at the moment after the last couple of stressful weeks. All I need now is the time. Sigh.
Good to hear about the XMen movie. I plan to go see it... soon hopefully.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Hello, Alex! I must say, I am very excited for the new Independence Day movie. Even though the first one was cheesy and cliched, I loved it nonetheless :)

Carrie-Anne said...

That's a lot of sequels they've got on deck for June movies! As much as I like book sequels, movies are usually better-off left alone instead of revisited over and over again.

Lidy said...

Loved X-men Apocalypse. And I'm in agreement about Quicksilver. His scene in getting everyone out of the school was one of the best in the movie. That I'm still humming the song "Sweet Dreams." I'm not too sure about TMNT Out of the Shadows but my boys are looking forward to it and Finding Dory (me too). But, I have my fingers crossed that the Independence Day sequel Resurgence will live up to the anticipation I have for it since I first saw the trailer.

Julie Dao said...

My brother went to see X-Men and wasn't very impressed :( And the WarCraft movie looks pretty awful and heavily CGI'ed...

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

That was certainly sad about Anton Yelsin. You never know what might happen...