Wednesday, April 3, 2013

A to Z Challenge – The Crow, Eric Draven, and Rush's Carve Away the Stone – Plus the Insecure Writer’s Support Group and Ninja News

My theme for the A to Z Challenge is Favorite Movies, Bloggers, and Music! I’ll name a favorite movie that corresponds with the letter, and then select a character from the film. I will then name a favorite blogger who reminds me of that character, and then dedicate a song to him. (Also corresponding with the alphabet.) I’ll wrap it all up with trivia and/or fun facts about the movie, the blogger, or the music!

In addition, two lucky commenters this month will receive a review copy of CassaStorm!.One comment per day and each is worth one entry except – the first and one hundredth comments on each day will receive ten entries!

The Crow

An incredibly haunting film. Brandon Lee’s death infused the movie with presence that you feel when watching it. The cinematography and set design are spectacular and the performances spot-on. The creator of the original graphic novel series wrote it in response to his own real-life tragedy, which adds even more depth to the film. An underappreciated masterpiece. (And a kick-ass soundtrack.)

Eric Draven is the tragedy. Haunted by his own death and that of his fiancé, Eric has returned to exact justice on those responsible. Armed with his guitar, his wits, and a sense of humor, he sets off on his quest. There is an air of sorrow beneath his strength, and he just wants to right the wrongs and find his peace.

Who is Eric?

Michael Offutt!

Michael has had his fair share of challenges, but he continues to fight. He’s both talented and smart in many areas, delving into the details above and beyond. Some days he is overwhelmed by the weight of it all, but not his quest. I admire his tenacity and hope he finds his peace. He is a good friend.

Michael is the author of Slipstream and Oculus.

To you I dedicate Carve Away the Stone, by Rush. 

“You can carry that weight, With an iron will, Or let the pain remain behind you…”

Trivia and Facts:

Brandon Lee was accidentally shot on the set on March 31, 1993, and pronounced dead at a Wilmington, NC hospital six hours later. This was just seventeen days before he and fiancé Eliza Hutton, who also worked on the film, were to be married. She petitioned that the film be completed, and it was released a year later, dedicated to the couple.

Co-star Ernie Hudson played a cop in The Crow, and a cop in two other films release that year – name them.

B’s trivia answer – Satriani played lead guitar for Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones.

Insecure Writer’s Support Group

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 this month are Annalisa Crawford, Julie Luek, and Elsie.
 
Today I’d just like to extend an invitation to any writers out there who haven’t heard about the IWSG. Every month, this group amazes me even more. Everyone is so supportive and encouraging. If you are a struggling writer or seasoned veteran, you find yourself welcome into the group. Once a month, we post our insecurities or a word of encouragement for others. It’s a safe outlet for those frustrations we often face.

I am humbled by the power of this group. The success of my books cannot compare to the success of the IWSG. I am recharged every month by the members and their dedication to each other. Join us, and you’ll see what I mean…


Ninja News!

Author and Geek Twin, Nigel Mitchell, composed a large list of editors for indie publishers HERE.


PTM’s theme for the Challenge is fictional characters including but not limited to cartoons, TV shows, video games, etc. Today, he is interviewing Cookie Monster – played by me! Snark may be involved. Check it out HERE

Damyanti at Daily (w)rite has been featuring books this month for the Challenge, and today it is my latest book, CassaFire! Thanks, Damy.




Goodreads Book Giveaway

CassaStorm by Alex J. Cavanaugh

CassaStorm

by Alex J. Cavanaugh

Giveaway ends April 21, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.
Enter to win


Fan of The Crow or Michael? Familiar with Dream Theater? Know the trivia question? Are you a member of the IWSG? (If no, please join us!) What is your insecurity today?

Be sure to check out PTM’s SITE for a side of Cookie Monster you’ve never seen…

182 comments:

L.G. Keltner said...

That's a nice tribute to Michael Offutt, and I am always impressed by the power of the IWSG. I'm glad to be a part of it!

Unknown said...

Michael Offutt ROCKS!! (I never connected with The Crow, I don't know why. I liked Darkman and that's the same type of thing. Awfully sad about Brandon Lee though.)
Yay for IWSG! I adore the group. Everyone makes me feel so much better if I'm down.
A free giveaway? You have my attention now! :-)

Unknown said...

The Crow is one of my favorite movies of all time. Michael is a most excellent choice to represent Eric.

I am very happy to be a part of IWSG and love how its grown.

M.J. Fifield said...

I've never seen The Crow, but I'm a fan of Michael's blog and his novels.

And thanks for the link to the editors list.

Andrew Leon said...

I should probably watch The Crow again. At the time, I got kind of tired of all the craze over it and, thus, got tired of it, but it's getting close to 20 years since I've seen it, so I should probably do that again.

Nice to see Michael getting some spotlight!

Mark Means said...

I don't know Michael, but he sounds like someone I should be following. Heading over right after here :)

I liked The Crow. It was....odd..but still a good film. Brandon Lee definitely died too young.

No clue as to the trivia question...I only remember Ernie Hudson from Ghostbusters and episode of "The A-Team" and an episode of "Bosom Buddies"....lol

Unknown said...

I've not seen The Crow in ages - it'd be good to watch that again. It's a shame that Lee died during filming; he could have been big.

Jamie @ Mithril Wisdom
www.mithrilwisdom.com

Anonymous said...

I love The Crow. Michael's awesome and so is IWSG.

Unknown said...

I love how you always find a way to pay it forward. Congrats to Michael for being your person of the day. And yes, I'm ready for IWSG.
Jenn @Scribbles From Jenn

Sand Castles and Snow Forts said...

LOVE the IWSG and I never remember to post.... but will tomorrow. It fits into my theme so yeah for me!

Tammy Theriault said...

i hope to do a to z next year!! Michael is quite the amazing person. thanks for giving props where needed!! iwsg up and away!!!

RaveAir said...

"Ninaj News"? I think you haven't got enough clones. This mistype is the sign of your weariness.

Annalisa Crawford said...

I've never seen The Crow, but I love the poster!

Looking forward to co-hosting today - and I'm going to check out my special signature for the day (it may go wrong, I'm terrible at following instructions)

Annalisa Crawford

April's IWSG co-host

Annalisa Crawford said...

Lol, although it worked I've now broken it!

Cynthia said...

I just met Michael through A to Z a couple of days ago.

I remember hearing about what had happened to Brandon Lee and feeling terrible about it. He had a promising career ahead of him, and his life was unfairly cut short.

Ray Rousell said...

Another excellent film, deep dark and moody!! Can't think of any other Ernie Hudson film apart from Ghostbusters??

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex .. I've never heard of the film .. but Michael now he's another story - so pleased you gave him a shout out ..

Cheers to all for IWSG Wednesday .. Hilary

Sheena-kay Graham said...

I love both Crow as a movie and the television series. Can't wait to read Cookie Monster. IWSG would humble anyone, thanks for creating something so woonderful Alex. Will check out that list of editors. *Whispers* Editing isn't my strongest suit.

Patsy said...

I'm too insecure to talk about this month's insecurity - so I just glossed right over it in my ISWG post. Insecure but cunning, that's me.

Nancy Thompson said...

Brandon Lee was another Bay Area boy, though he's now buried here in Seattle, right next to his father. I absolutely loved him, so much so, I named my son after him. His death hit me very hard. But yay for Michael! He has suffered his fair share & I, too, pray he finds peace.

Anonymous said...

Great choice for film and character,

Sorry I have missed the Insecure Group but have hospital appointments this week and had an early night last night.

Yvonne.

Empty Nest Insider said...

Nice tribute to Michael. I'm so glad to be a part of the IWSG, and I can't wait to see you as Cookie Monster!

Julie

Cassie Mae said...

Never even heard of The Crow, but it sounds like I'd have to watch it during the day and not right before bed. Nightmares and all. Love Michael as well and got a wee bit teary with this post. Amazing words to describe an amazing guy :)

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

Yep, I'm a fan of the Crow and Michael. I haven't seen the Crow in a few years so I might go hunt it down and watch again.

Anonymous said...

The Crow is not something I have yet to encounter. Bravo to Michael. I've missed a few IWSGs winter all makes me go into hibernation mode!

Donna Shields said...

Huge fan of The Crow. I haven't heard of Michael. Thanks for the heads up.

Lan said...

I hang out with readers all month long and it's such a great kick to commiserate with some writers once a month! Love IWSG.

Unknown said...

The Crow was an excellent film and I watched that one with The Spawn. Excellent choice of song-can't go wrong with Rush!

Laura Clipson said...

I've never seen The Crow, but it sounds like a good film.
Must remember to put my ISWG post up later :)

Anonymous said...

The Crow's one of many, many apparent classics I've not got round to seeing.

There's so much I'm missing out on!

Brinda said...

I'm crazy about The Crow and Michel Offutt!

Nick Wilford said...

Michael's a great choice! Heard a lot about The Crow and must get round to seeing it.

Unknown said...

The Crow! Great movie!
Michael is a wonderful choice!

DayDreamer said...

That is such an innovative theme for the challenge!

Never saw The Crow but it was so sad when Brandon Lee died. His father's films were great, but he also died so young.

Mary Aalgaard said...

I've never seen that movie. The story behind it is sad and interesting. My insecurity comes out in the words of Millie and Willie today. Sometimes you have to jump on the train with a crazy idea! Glad you went with this one, Alex. The IWSG is a terrific support system. I think Millie might even join!

Kirsten said...

I swear it's just coincidence that I mention Brandon Lee in my IWSG post today! Eric Draven's quest for vengeance is part of what inspired my first book, and although the story has changed a lot in revision, The Crow still lingers in the traits of my Muse. So cool that you introduced your followers to this fantastic movie!

Anyway, as always, I appreciated the IWSG and the great group of writers who prowl the web distributing encouragement and positive thoughts!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Haven't seen The Crow but it sounds awesome. As is your IWSG group. Love reading the posts.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Andrew, never knew there was a craze when it came out. If I hadn't been following it's development, I might've missed it.

Mark, you'll find out tomorrow.

Snow Castles, that's great!

Zoltan, it is - fixed now.

Annalisa, thanks again.

Yvonne, that's all right.

Cassie, didn't mean to make you cry!

Anne, can never go wrong with Rush.

Mary, hope she does!

Kirsten, that's cool!

Mark Koopmans said...

Some people (in EngUland and Ireland) will get this, but others may have to look it up...

Michael Offutt *is* "the dog's bollocks," and I love his posts (even - or especially - the ones I don't agree with :)

kjmckendry said...

Yay for Michael, we're all behind him!

I didn't see The Crow, but I remember Brandon's tragic death. So sad that he and his father were taken in the prime of life.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I remember when that tragedy happened...so sad! Never saw "The Crow." Nice tribute for Michael.

Miranda Hardy said...

I really enjoyed The Crow. It was dark, but I liked it.

I totally forgot IWSG. Oops. I guess I'm not insecure this month. Lol

Laura Eno said...

Michael rocks! So does the IWSG. Thank you, Alex, for coming up with a brilliant idea.

I remember Brandon Lee's tragic death and have always meant to see The Crow. Still haven't...knock me in the head. O.o

Heather M. Gardner said...

I cried for months when Brandon Lee died. He was so talented and just starting his career out from under his father's shadow. I watched The Crow so many times I wore out the VHS tape. I still listen to the soundtrack, there are some great songs on it.

And you can't go wrong with RUSH!

You did a great thing creating IWSG. I hope you know that.

Heather

Elsie Amata said...

I haven't seen The Crow in so long. What a great classic pick, Alex!

I am heading over to PTM right now to see you play the part of Cookie Monster. He's always funny so I know it'll be great.

I'm looking forwarding to hosting IWSG today and I thank you for the opportunity.

Elsie

Misha Gerrick said...

Really want to see the Crow.

Michael is one of my favorite favorite bloggers and CPs. He's a copy editing genius, I tell you.

Elise Fallson said...

I have a lot of respect for Michael. He's written two novels that I've enjoyed very much. He's also one of those people that I like to sit down with someday and drink a beer with . . . or two. (:

<3 u M.O.!!!!!!!!

Shaharizan Perez said...

You know, I'm almost ashamed to admit this but . . . I have never seen The Crow. My husband keeps trying to get me to see it but I always catch it in the middle (so I stop watching). Perhaps I'll look on Netflix for it! Thanks. Great synopsis.

Fida Islaih said...

Thanks for the reminder of IWSG! (:

Ida Thought said...

You are a link that holds a chain together - I enjoyed reading Michaels post too - thanks

mooderino said...

I think they're doing a remake of The Crow (of course).

mood
Moody Writing

Optimistic Existentialist said...

I really need to re-watch The Crow. It's been over 15 years since I saw it last and I have forgotten so much! Great movie.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I love The Crow. We used to watch it for Halloween every year and I've dressed as the character twice.

The IWSG is just amazing.

S.A. Larsenッ said...

Loved The Crow! I've seen it a ton of times. Guess that shows my dark side.

Melissa said...

More good choices today for AtoZ.
IWSG is awesome. :)

J.L. Campbell said...

Yup, Mike is s good friend to have. Says what he thinks and is very supportive. Didn't know that bit of info about Brandon Lee.

Not a member of ISWG. I look at the mega list and keep thinking I won't have the time. There's nothing like having the support of people who're in the same boat though.

shelly said...

Loved The Crow!

Hugs and chocolate,
Shelly

Tweeted!

Unknown said...

Glad to cohost and read a few new blogs-- hats off to Michael.

Cindy said...

Michael Offutt is awesome! I never saw The Crow, but I find the comparison interesting. Now I must enter that giveaway.

Jo said...

Sounds like a good movie. I remember Lee getting shot, always figured it wasn't really an accident bearing in mind what happened to his father.

Keep hearing Michael's name, I should check him out.

JO ON FOOD, MY TRAVELS AND A SCENT OF CHOCOLATE

farawayeyes said...

Not quite ready for the IWSG, too busy lurking around the A - Z. Best if I run off now and write my post.

Isis Rushdan said...

The Crow is one of my favorites. I thought Brandon Lee died in a fall on set. Thanks for the facts. So sad.

Michael rocks.

mshatch said...

I loved the movie The CRow and thought it was horribly tragic that Lee died on the set. I also enjoyed his other movie, Rapid Fire. What a shame he died so young!

Unknown said...

Haunting. I haven't watched the movie, not that I don't want to, I just don't want to- you know what I mean?

Anonymous said...

I have yet to see The Crow. I may need to rent it.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

I love your A to Z theme! That's so cool! I haven't seen The Crow, but I've certainly heard about the actor's death in it. Scary and very sad.

Sherry Ellis said...

I've never seen the Crow. It sounds like an intriguing movie!

Rachna Chhabria said...

I am loving your A to Z theme. Nice tribute to Michael :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mark, I get it.

Miranda, that's a good thing though.

Thank you, Heather.

Elsie, thanks for co-hosting!

Moody, so wrong!

Joy, please join us.

Thanks, everyone! Off to stupid work meetings now...

Michelle Wallace said...

Michael Offutt rocks! He was generous enough to mail me e-copies of Slipstream and Occulus after my "drama" with Amazon. (they're waiting on my Kindle)
I still need to post for IWSG... later on...

Summer Ross said...

I adored the crow. not so much the sequels-
~Summer

Juliana Haygert said...

Oh, The Crow! Long time no see ... have to correct that ;)

jaybird said...

The Crow is great but always makes me a little sad to watch it.

Michael is awesome, so is PTM. Heading over there now to check out his post.

Hard to keep up with all the cool stuff going on! I'll be doing my best. Don't know how you do it Alex!

Cherie Reich said...

Michael is awesome! He's such a great friend!

Cherie Colyer said...

The Crow is one of my favorite movies of the 90s, and I do remember Brandon Lee died while filming it.

On IWSG, I'm glad to be a part of it :)

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I can't remember if I saw The Crow. Need to check it out. I remember when Brandon Lee died. So sad.

I'll let others enter for your book. I want to buy it.

Anonymous said...

Another great post, Alex. Started watching "The Stand" on netflix yesterday (another based on a novel by S. King). Haven't seen "The Crow" and don't do much with scary movies at all. Not sure if I'll be up for it for a while, once I get through this mini-series. Shout out to Michael. I'll be stopping by.

Susan Oloier said...

Yay for Michael! He's the best!

Tyrean Martinson said...

Love the triple match up with Michael today - wonderful!
Love IWSG!!!!

miss uncertain said...

"People once believed that when you died, a crow took your soul to the land of the dead.....but sometimes, just sometimes, the crow could bring that soul back, to make the wrong things right..." I really love this movie. Frank Castle vs. Eric Draven? I'd pick Eric.


Sincerely,Miss Uncertain---sidetracked

Al Diaz said...

Ah, the Crow! I loved the movie and the TV series as well. I love the character. I still have to meet Michael.
What? the giveaway only for US and Canada? :( Dragon must go to pout somewhere else.

Unknown said...

Yay to Michael Offutt! The Crow is a great film.

Anonymous said...

THE CROW was awesome, and still terrible about Brandon Lee.

Julie Flanders said...

Michael's awesome and I love his books, just got into them recently. Another great choice. :)

Suze said...

Can't go wrong with a Rush lyric, imo.

Ella said...

I love your cool C post :D
sorry about IWSG-maybe I will do something really bold for May~

Michael rocks...
Insecurity today is two days to my art show and I'm not ready...

Now I want to watch The Crow ;D

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

I have a feeling I'm going to be learning a lot about movies and music this month.

What a shame about Brandon Lee.

Thanks for posting the link to the editor list. I'm happy with my editor, but it never hurts to have a backup, right?

Jeremy [Retro] said...

the sadness around the crow... i was following the making and the release date for the love of brandon lee. the news of his death screamed in our ears... i interview michael berryman his part was cut from the film and he was there on that day... it was a rough time. the movie needed to be finished, though the sequels were an insult...

please tell me which are the best songs for Dream Theater... someday.

Mina Burrows said...

I totally agree about Michael. He's amaze-balls!

I remember when BL passed away. It was so sad. I loved that movie.

Maurice Mitchell said...

It was so sad that Brandon Lee died just like his father from a prop gun.

Kristen said...

I love your theme for the challenge. Yours is one of my favorites for C.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

To wait a couple minutes in the hope of being #100? Nah, I'll comment now. I don't think my post showed on your roll again, Alex. Grrr. But I want to be sure you know I made it to the IWSG. I'm excited to read PTM's post too. Here I go.

xoRobyn

Nicole said...

Never seen that movie, but it does sound haunting.

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Oh thank you so much for the shout out today, Alex. What a wonderful surprise!

Boy Brandon Lee's death really brings back memories. It happened for me around the time I was in college, and I recall that Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story was in the theaters. I felt so sad for the Lee family, because Brandon held such promise as an actor. The movie "Dragon" hinted at a family curse. I don't believe in those kinds of things, but it definitely was a huge tragedy.

The Crow is one of the finest comic book adaptations I've ever seen. I bought the special edition version of it a few years ago.

Carol Kilgore said...

Awesome that you dedicated this one to Michael :)

Margo Kelly said...

I love IWSG!!! Thanks for letting me be a part of it. :) Have a great Wednesday!

Jennie Bennett said...

How awesome of you to giveaway Cassa Storm! I'd love a copy! Micheal is awesome as well, great choice :)

Love IWSG, even when I don't get the chance to post, everyone else really inspires me. Love it!

Laura S. said...

My sister really likes the movie The Crow. I haven't seen it yet; I'm adding it to my Netflix queue right now. I'm a Bruce Lee fan, so I should really check out his son's final film!

Happy A to Z-ing! from Laura Marcella @ Wavy Lines

ilima said...

I remember all that drama around The Crow. Craziness!

cleemckenzie said...

I'd forgotten the tragedy surrounding The Crow. That was so terrible.

I'm late, behind and behinder today! However, I'm gathering my super powers and should soon be caught up.

Bish Denham said...

I'm going to have to check out The Crow, haven't seen it.

Tony Laplume said...

Still haven't seen The Crow.

S. L. Hennessy said...

I love the Crow, but I'd never heard that story before about Lee's death. That;s so sad.

Intangible Hearts said...

Michael is awesome and I hope to read his books one day. I thought C would be for CassaFire and CassaStorm but you chose the higher ground. :)

Intangible Hearts said...

Michael is awesome and I hope to read his books one day. I thought C would be for CassaFire and CassaStorm but you chose the higher ground. :)

Unknown said...

Happy IWSG day! And I hope you all are enjoying the A to Z challenge. :)

Unknown said...

Didn't someone else die after the film The Crow was released? I do remember it. Phew! I don't know WHERE you get your energy from, Alex, for these fabulous posts :-)

Carrie-Anne said...

I was in junior high when The Crow came out, but even then I didn't see very many movies. I probably have only seen a relative handful of the well-known movies from my lifetime.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Summer, the sequels were lame.

Teresa, thank you!

Sorry, Al!!

Suze, no you can't.\

Ella, you'll be ready.

Jeremy, start with Count of Tuscany.

Robyn, not sure why...

Michael, you're welcome!

JA, awesome of my publisher to do it.

Desert, be weird to pick myself!

Susan, not sure.

Mel Chesley said...

The Crow is one of my absolute favorite movies! I watch it at least once a year if not more. To lose someone such as Brandon Lee is heartbreaking and I am glad the movie was released despite the accident.
Great post, Alex!

Alexandra Heep said...

My insecurity today is the same as any day ... health. Really enjoy your blog theme. Even if the interests do not coincide with mine, it's fun to learn something every day.

Anonymous said...

Another film I haven't seen. I wonder how many I will have been able to say I've seen by the close of April?

I must have bad film taste :)

Morgan said...

I love Michael O!!!!!

I think he's amazing. And a wonderful person in this community.

And IWSG is incredible---I love your humility with the group, Alex. It truly was inspired. It lowers the walls and puts us on all equal planes. And it really does help. Thank you.

E. M. Prokop said...

Hey Alex, I've never seen the Crow, but I do remember when Brandon Lee died...doesn't seem like 20 years has gone by since then! I guess I didn't read the question properly the other day. I thought you were looking for a band, not the lead singer of a band! That's what I get for rushing!

Susan Kane said...

I know Ernie Hudson from Ghostbusters, and from Congo. But the cop shows elude me.

Crow was haunting, you are right.

nutschell said...

aww. Michael! Great tribute, alex. :) I've never watched The Crow. I tend to shy away from scary movies :D
Nutschell
www.thewritingnut.com

Unknown said...

I love your A to Z theme. You should have lots of interesting stuff to post, lol. Thanks again for gathering us all up for IWSG. I always look forward to first Wednesdays! :)

Talli Roland said...

Yay for Michael and the Crow! Great choices.

Gwen Gardner said...

Yay for Michael! A very nice tribute. I'm enjoying your theme, Alex.

Darn it! I forgot IWSG today.

Rek Sesh said...

Never got to see crow but read about Brandon Lee - Bruce Lee's son, right?

My IWSG is up, please read it with an open mind if you do find time to visit my blog.

IWSG, RFW and reviews are what keep from leaving the blogging world.

Micheal Offut is a cool guy...and I wish him success in life - personal and professional.

Anonymous said...

I've had so much difficulty in the past getting this comment box to load, but I (think) I finally solved the problem. I have to turn off my modem and then back on. Today I had no problem, so hopefully that's the answer if it happens in the future.

Anyway, I'll catch up on those days that I was here but couldn't get it to load. Great movie choices! Thanks for the Feedly info!

Here's a trivia tidbit that has reference to Brandon Lee. Wilmington is where I did my movie work, too. First at DEG Studios, then Carolco. When you mentioned it, it took me back.

Always a pleasure coming here and catching up.

DiscConnected said...

The Crow is one of my favorites-very tragic that Brandon died-I think he would have been huge.

I seem to remember Ernie Hudson playing a cop a lot, but the only thing that comes to mind is the one with Keifer Sutherland and Woody from Cheers....I forget the title (had a Bon Jovi song on the soundtrack) but it may have been later in the 90's anyway...

LC

Shell Flower said...

Brandon Lee's death is so tragic, as is his fathers. Awesome movie choice. And thanks again for the IWSG. It seriously keeps me going.

Ian Anderson said...

I never did see The Crow.

I'll be in for IWSG next month!

Robin said...

Tragic death shakes us to our core and makes us look at everything differently. I think that maybe it is a wake-up call... a not-so gentle reminder that no one knows how many days that they have, so they better make them count.

Laura said...

I love Michaels writing, so powerful!
Lx

Birgit said...

i have never seen the film and it is on my must watch list. It was such a shame when he passed and he died similar to Jon Eric Hexum(does anyone remember him). It just shows that even "fake" bullets can kill. My insecurity-just one?? Right now-work is overloading my brain cells and i hear the mini pops as I write this...at work. Now off to Powdered Toast Man who is beyond funny

Gabriel C. Taylor said...

One of my instructors at film school was the assistant director on The Crow. He told us about the day Brandon was shot. Terribly tragic, and emotionally scarring for everyone involved.
I've always looked up to Bruce Lee, studied Jeet Kune Do, watch all his movies, etc. His remarkable honor and personal strength was amazing and Brandon was nothing less.

VR Barkowski said...

I haven't seen The Crow in years. It may be time for another viewing. Great tribute to Michael O. And thank you again for IWSG—truly an inspired conception, Alex.


~VR Barkowski

Michael Abayomi said...

Wow. The Crow. Haven't seen that one in ages. I sorta remember bits and pieces, but the complete plot eludes me right now. Would need to revisit it someday.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Rebecca, your tastes probably aren't as odd as mine!

Morgan, thank you!

Eve, that's all right.

Nutschell, it's not at all scary.

Rekha, he was.

ML, that's very cool!

Larry, you may not remember the title, but that is one of the movies.

Gabriel, wow.

Christine Rains said...

That was a wonderful tribute for Michael.

Author A.O. Peart said...

What a nice tribute to Michael Offutt :-)
The Crow has been on my to-be-watched list forever! I think you just inspired me to finally watch it.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

The Crow... excellent choice, Alex. And that reminds me. Have you seen RedBelt yet? I'm not sure why The Crow made me think of RedBelt, but there's something about the hero. Anyway, I'd love to know what you think.

J Lenni Dorner said...

Airheads and The Cowboy Way

Insecurity today is not budgeting my time well enough to be spread thick-like-jam instead of thin-like-jelly in all the areas I need to.

Stopping by from the #atozchallenge !
@JLenniDorner

SpacerGuy said...

The good ones always take off before the sun goes down. Never did catch the Crow, too busy watching trek.

Suzy, The Grey Brunette said...

I totally fell in love with The Crow when I first saw it but after hearing that Brandon was killed during filming, I couldn't bring myself to watch it again. It was such a powerful performance... I'd have loved to have seen him in further movies. It's so sad.
I'm off to check out Michael's blog now :D

Ciara said...

I love IWSG. I'm sad I didn't get my post up this week. :( I LOVE CassaStorm's cover so much, I can't wait to read it. Yay for Micheal. I thought Slipstream's science was awesome. Of course, I'm a total science geek. :)

Patricia Stoltey said...

Haven't seen The Crow yet. I guess I should give it a try.

PK HREZO said...

Oh boy I forgot to post for IWSG today. Just can't keep up with it all. But you sure do a good job, Alex!
Anyway, I adore The Crow. I have to watch it every couple years and I love the dark theme and Brandon Lee. Such a shame he died so young. I remember it well when it happened.

PK HREZO said...

Oh boy I forgot to post for IWSG today. Just can't keep up with it all. But you sure do a good job, Alex!
Anyway, I adore The Crow. I have to watch it every couple years and I love the dark theme and Brandon Lee. Such a shame he died so young. I remember it well when it happened.

Karen Michelle Nutt said...

So sad about Brandon Lee. I did see the movie. Enjoyed the post!

Jay Noel said...

Big fan of both The Crow and Michael.

I'm not a member of the ISWG...and I really don't know why. Huh. Have to remedy that.

Doreen McGettigan said...

I am enjoying your theme! I did not see the Crow but it is one of my husbands favorites.
I am a huge fan of the IWSG and cannot thank you enough for the opportunity to be part of it.

M Pax said...

Definitely a fan of Michael's.

There was a dark beauty to the Crow.

And I'm glad you invented IWSG.

David T List said...

I've been meaning to give a look at the IWSG for sometime now. No time like the present, eh?
The Crow soundtrack may be the first (and best) soundtrack I ever bought. It introduced me to lots of bands I wouldn't know of otherwise. Brandon Lee's death does have a profound effect on the atmosphere of that movie... Not unlike Heath Ledger's death to The Dark Knight.

Thanks for informing me about my comment block, by the way. I've never even known it was on!

Nas said...

That's a nice tribute to Michael Offutt.

I watched The Crow-shiver!

Nas

Melissa Sugar said...

I adore and admire Michael. I am so glad you recognized him today. He is awesome. Alex, I don't know how you host and participate in so many events. I get dizzy just thinking about it. You rock! Cool move and I love Rush. I am such an 80's kid.

klahanie said...

Oh my, I'm struggling to keep up with you and all the rest who are doing the alphabet challenge. So, my visit will be but fleeting.

I've got to heartily concur that "The Crow" was a haunting film. Michael Offcut is one heck of a nice guy. Time for me to go listen to some "Rush" me thinks.

Happy alpheting to you and to all participating.

Gary

Helena said...

Michael Offut is indeed a wonderful guy who's had too many challenges, and I plan to watch The Crow (which I've never seen) in his honor.

And of course I can't answer the trivia question!

Marta Szemik said...

I really enjoy IWSG every month and I'm grateful for this group:)

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I am a fan of Michael's and his books. He is multi-talented.
I linked my insecurity today to C.

Allison said...

Ack! I neglected to post for IWSG in the haze of A-Z. Yay Rush!

Allison (Geek Banter)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Angela, go and watch it!

Joylene, no I haven't.

J Lenni, you got one right.

Ciara, thank you!

PK, right now I don't feel like I'm keeping up...

Jay, next month!

Doreen, I'm glad it means so much to you.

David, please join us!

Marta, and you've never missed one. Thank you!

Liza said...

Ouch! I think I got a finger cramp scrolling to the end of your comments! Hooray for IWSG, Alex. It really is an amazing thing!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi, Alex,

I remember how sad that time was during the filming of the Crow....

Yes, good choice picking Michael...

And the IWSG is a tremdous success because of the love and support you show all if us... We just want to keep it going too!

Leovi said...

Interesting, I think music is strict in the development of the action.

Unknown said...

LOVE the movie The Crow and you picked the perfect word to describe it. Haunting. I hadn't realized it the original story was also inspired by someone else's tragedy. Now I really want to see the movie again. Maybe tonight...

I also want to say that me and Karen will definitely be signing up for the IWSG next month. It was crazy to jump back into blogging by creating a whole new blog and starting in with the A-Z challenge, but next month I'm definitely up for IWSG. I love that group!

Rick Daley said...

Good pick on the movie and the blogger. Darn you, Mick Jagger. I guessed Robert Plant.

Kimberly said...

I don't think I've seen this. So many people like it, I think I should. :)

Jaime said...

I saw the Crow in the theatre and was in total awe. I still am & I agree that the soundtrack is amazing.

Carrie Butler said...

Michael is great! :)

And I'm still laughing about this: "None! I bathe in eggs. Keeps the fur shiny." Haha!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liza, sorry!

Thank you, Michael!

Karen, I'm glad you are joining us! It's an amazing group of people.

Angela Brown said...

The Crow is definitely one I would re-watch. I remember all the suspicious drama surrounding Lee's death, especially given the mystery behind his father's death.

Michael is AWESOME! Nuff said! :-)

And in answer to your question Alex, I must smile at your humility. You, dear sir, are both a musician and writer on BLAZING fire! :-)

Unknown said...

Loved that movie! The soundtrack is still one of my favorites - when I want to write a dark and dreary scene! Good choice all around:)
Cheers!
Sam

~Sia McKye~ said...

Nice tribute and movie analogy, Alex.

ISW is a great idea and support for writers. It helps the writer see that we all face similar doubts and problems. Sometimes, it's all too easy to think you such lemons and no one else has the problems you do.

I really need to note IWSG in RED ink on the first Wednesday. Sheesh.

Powdered Toast Man said...

Thanks for adding snark to Cookie Monster. We should team up again. I haven't seen The Crow in a long time, I need to give that another look.

Unknown said...

The Crow rocked and the music did too! Now I want to watch it. :)
Oh, Michael is awesome. I had the honor to meet him at a writer dinner over a year ago. He cracked me up. Yay for Michael!

Kimberly Gabriel said...

I love The Crow for all of the reasons you mentioned. I signed up for a copy of CassaStorm! Fingers crossed! ;)

Yolanda Renée said...

Truly enjoy the way you dedicate your posts to other bloggers. Wonderful!

If folks don't know about IWSG they don't have a blog! Awesome creation!

Chuck said...

I loved The Crow and probably need to watch it again. Tragic the way Lee died and kind of creepy too.

That was interesting about Satriani, I did not know that.

Chuck at Apocalypse Now

Arlee Bird said...

The Crow is a great movie as is Dream Theater a great group.

Lee
Wrote By Rote
An A to Z Co-host blog

Rebecca Green Gasper said...

Yay! Michael. He rocks :) I've started a list of book that I will have to check out and read after this challenge...and now I must start a list of movies- boy I'm gonna be busy in May, catching up on all those books and movies! <3

Rusty Carl said...

I didn't catch this yesterday. I did not know about Satch and The Rolling Stones, wow! Great choice in Michael.

Unknown said...

No one better to feature than Michael. I truly look up to that guy. :)

Kathe W. said...

after reading your post today I'll be adding the Crow to the must sees! Thanks and have a great day.

Jeff Laws said...

Love The Crow, I'm going to have to see if Netflix has it and see it again.

sjp said...

wow thats some intense trivia

Deniz Bevan said...

Yay for Michael - and Rush!
Do you know, I only saw The Crow the year it came out - and haven't seen it since!

randi lee said...

IWSG has been a lifesaver for me this year, and I'm so glad to be a part of it! Great write-up of the Crow, you really nailed it!!

Callie Leuck said...

Those were some nice words there that you said about Michael Offutt.

Unknown said...

I haven't seen The Crow in years, but I do remember loving it. Great ode to Offutt! He's such a talented writer.