The Chronicles of Shannara Review
The series begins with the Ellcrys tree, which has held back the demon world for centuries, dying, and a band of people trying to find the magic to stop its death. The series begins with the second book in the original Shannara trilogy and no secret that Shannara is Earth far in the future. (Not sure why they didn’t begin with the first book. And it’s not until subsequent books that we learn this is actually Earth.)
I was terrified when I heard MTV was doing a series based on my favorite series. MTV? Really? But so far, after watching the first episode, I’m happy to say I’m enjoying it.
The main plot points of the show are accurate. They are following The Elf Stones of Shannara. However, the details have been altered to fit the younger, MTV demographic. The show contains a thousand times more angst that the entire series put together, but that’s to be expected.
The first episode moved at a breakneck speed. It sprinted forward over many scenes, probably just to bring the main characters altogether at the end. Now, maybe that’s the only way the MTV crowd can handle it, but I do hope they slow down and focus more on character development and at a leisurely pace. (Because at the current pace, they’ll burn through all the books in the first season.)
For a television show, the special effects and makeup are both top notch. MTV certainly poured some money into the series.
And hopefully it will encourage people to read the books, because they are awesome!
Some cool things happening with RiffTrax!
Just hit play on your phone or tablet and the app listens for the movie and automatically syncs everything, and keeps it synced. It will work with your TV, computer, DVDs, Blu-rays, Netflix, Amazon Video and other streams. The beta app is completely FREE, AND has all six Star Wars movies pre-loaded into it for FREE for you to try out! (That will be the ONLY way I can watch those prequels ever again!)
The Best of RiffTrax Live will be rebroadcasting two of its movies. Starship Troopers is on January 14 and The Room is on January 28. If you’ve never seen RiffTrax on the big screen, now is the time to catch it.
Geek News
Legends of Tomorrow is the next DC series, taking a few characters from The Flash and Arrow, adding some new ones, and mixing them together for a superhero team. Premiers January 21.
The much anticipated X-Files miniseries premiers January 24, and creator Chris Carter promises we’ll get everything we loved about the original series.
Season six of Game of Thrones starts on April 24 – mark your calendars now.
JoBlo featured a list of Top Ten Greatest Movie Teasers of All Time. (And yes, I have seen all of the movies, more than once!)
TNT nixed the live-action Teen Titans series. (Damn you TNT!)
And Netflix announced season two of DareDevil will begin on March 18, and they released a trailer for the critically acclaimed show:
The winner of the IWSG Anthology Contest, L.G. Keltner, is a guest today at the Insecure Writer’s Support Group with some awesome information and tips about anthologies.
Our very own Anti-A to Z Spokesperson, Gary at Klahanie, actually promote the IWSG last week! Of course, that might be because he thinks it stands for I Was Seeking Gary…
The second book comes out in March and the third in May.
Book Goodies now allows authors fill out an interview form that is posted on their site, and afterwards, books can be added. My interview is HERE.
The Lost and Found: Valentine’s Edition blogfest takes place February 1. For details and to sign up, go HERE.
Version Sacrifice results, featuring the song Dead Souls:
Nine Inch Nails – 10
Joy Division – 10
My vote for NIN gave us a tie!
All of these ‘fantasy’ movies (two with horror elements) take place mostly in a forest. Name the movie from the cryptic description.
1 – The first in a series that should’ve been seven films, the adventure begins in the snowy winter woods. 2005
2 – A trip to this forest turned out to be a game to feed an ancient beast. 2011
3 – This fable involved a tower and naïve young woman who wants to explore the world. 2010
4 – This epic tale has man joining a dozen others to battle a mysterious enemy that descends from a mountain lair. 1999
5 – The first of three films has an unlikely hero setting off with a group of dwarves. 2012
Answers Monday!
Anyone else watching the Chronicles of Shannara? Ready for some RiffTrax fun? Any January series catch your attention? Think the new X-Files will be a good as promised? Want to submit to some anthologies? And do you know any of the trivia…?
And found out this morning David Bowie died. How sad!
129 comments:
Hadn't heard of MTV doing Shannara. Will look it up!
The Rifftrax app sounds like lots of fun. I'll have to check it out.
#1--The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Good Morning Alex,
I have not heard of Shannara but, it sounds like something I might like so, I will need to look into that a bit. MTV is trying something different? What happened to music on MTV?
Marval seems to be doing some interesting stuff lately. I just finished watching Jessica Jones and let me tell you that was intense.
I am interested in watching the Colony on the USA network with Josh Holloway. I hope it will not disappoint.
haha - I was seeking Gary...that will make him laugh...
Hope the ninja has a week filled with adventure!
The Shannara books sound very intriguing to me :D I haven't heard of them before either, but now I'd love to read them. I need to find out if I can get them here, maybe in our public library :)
Hubby and I still need to watch Game of Thrones season five - I cannot wait! He's shown me so many awesome shows lately that I want to spend half our time in front of the TV LOL And I used to never turn the TV on for anything... ;)
Have a wonderful week, Alex.
Beate
Chronicles of Shannara was my husband's absolute favorite as a teen. I'm not sure I can convince him to watch anything on MTV, but I will let him know of your good review!
My hubby watched Chronicles of Shannara and enjoyed it very much. I wasn't too interested in it. I'll stick with my realty shows. I was watching @Midnight a couple of episodes ago and they had one of the new hosts of MST. I can't recall his name though. Not very good info huh?
I'm gearing up for the blogfest!!
Hi Alex,
sometimes I feel really old-fashioned. No netflix, no Amazon TV, no MTV, no Facebook, no Rifftrax and no smartphone. But do I miss something? To be honest my answer is no.
I see so many people around me who are slaves of their smart phones.
I love to read books (time consuming), I love to play video games (time consuming), I like to share my opinion about books in form of reviews (time consuming) I like to sew (time consuming), and I like to read blogs (time consuming). Beside that I love to spend time with my wife ( we will celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary :-) ). So my available spare time is far to short do all the things I mentioned.
I do not need more. But I like to be informed about what is going on and that is where your blog comes into play. You deliver information about stuff I do not want to spend time for.
I still which selected films, series, and documentation on TV.
I'm happy and suprised about the information that The X-Files miniseries will be aired in Germany in February!
Normally I takes a year until we see something from over the pond.
You look forward to see season six of Game of Thrones. We look forward to see season five on German TV.
I do not complain - except I would like to have much more time for reading and playing :-)) -
Thanks for all the interesting information. Now my Lunch break is over and I have to return to work. Only two hours left until I can go home and put my nose into a book.
Enjoy life and enjoy reading!
First time I don't know about any of the subjects here. No, wait...a new series that got my attention was...hahaha, nevermind. I leave you this instead http://www.buzzfeed.com/andyneuenschwander/star-wars-with-princess-bride-quotes-is-somehow-perfect#.miRVjLEzB
The original X-Files was so awesome. I don't know how you can really improve upon that.
Ooh, goody, trivia!
1. Thee Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe
2.
3.
4.
5. The Hobbit (of course!)
Hmm, I didn't do so well :(
MTV and angst, never thought of it that way, but it's true. Glad they're staying true to the plot, mostly, besides the angst-ridden additions.
Tried to look up Shannara but couldn't find it. How can we watch it.
Can't wait for Game of Thrones.
ALL THINGS BOWIE! Rest in Peace...
I am very interested in the MTV show, GoT6... excellent! I am thrilled about the X-files, watched half a special... looks like we finally might get our answers, though I forgot the questions.
Have a SUPERB day...
Jeremy
I have Shannara on my DVR. I haven't watched it yet, but I'm planning to, once my edits are finished. I, sadly, have never read the books. They've been on my shelf for years, but I've never gotten around to them.
Can't wait for the second season of Daredevil!!
I didn't know about MTV and Shannara. And Daredevil has new shows too...wow, I'm going to have a lot of watching to do.
I read some bad reviews for Shannara but I'm going to give it a try. I'm really looking forward to season 2 of Daredevil and of course, Game of Thrones since we're entering subject matter beyond the books.
Definitely encouraged to read the books!
And didn't know there was an official anti A-Z spokesperson, how cool of you to mention it! :D
The first season of Daredevil was so good. I eagerly wait for Season 2!
My wife and me started to watch Jessica Jones last week, and it's also very good.
Shannanra books... Oh, dear. Another books to my want to read shelf.
Haven't seen Chronicles of Shannara, since I don't have cable, but I remember people tweeting about it. Had no idea it was based on a book series! That's odd how they've started the TV adaptation with book 2, but I'm glad to hear you're enjoying it so far!
Not heard anything about Shannara here, I too read it many, many years ago. Actually you have inspired me to read the books again. Wonder if the library has them.
I was interested in your comment that you had seen certain movies more than once and yet you won't read a book twice?
I will now go check out your interview.
Yeh for GoT! Can't wait!
Saw M Night's THE VISIT over the weekend. Eh. Not as bad as THE VILLAGE but not even close to as good as THE SIXTH SENSE.
Sorry to say all of the trivia questions escape me. Not sure if that's just because it's Monday or I just don't really know...Have a great week! :)
Sandra, correct!
Truedessa, once in a great while, they still play music on MTV.
Beate, you're a junkie now. And hope you can find the books.
Elizabeth, tell him they won't ruin the books for him.
Edi, glad I can do that. Yes, all those things suck up time and I'm glad I'm not a slave to my phone. Glad you won't have to wait long for the X-Files series.
Al, will check that out!
Deb, you can improve on the last movie though.
Jeremy, so did I!
Susan, I think it helps to be a fan of the Shannara series.
Nilanjana, he's the official anti-spokesperson.
Zoltan, that series is dark but good.
Heather, no idea why they didn't start with Sword.
Jo, reading a book a second time will take a month. With a movie, it's only two hours. Easy choice.
Madeline, I still want to watch that film.
I've never read the Chronicles of Shannara. I think I WILL. Then I might watch the TV show. Exciting.
I'm glad you pointed out February 1 as the date of the Lost and Found bloghop. I had it in my mind it was February 14.
I Was Seeking Gary... too funny! Somehow I missed reading Shannara, I think I was into the Darkover novels at the time. And the only movie trivia answer I know is the last one... The Hobbit.
Can't beat a tie in the Version Sacrifice. That means neither version needs to be sacrificed to the rock gods. I voted for Joy Division because I liked the insanity in the vocals. If Mrs. Shady had voted, she would have picked her favorite band Nine Inch Nails and handed them the win.
Thanks, Alex!
I watched Shannara yesterday, wasn't bad indeed. Plenty of teenage angst, ugg, but that's mtv. Still better than I expected. Hopefully the x-files is good. Stupid TNT indeed. Daredevil season 2 will be great.
1. Narnia
2. Cabin in the woods
3. Tangled
4. The 13th warrior?
5. The Hobbit
I haven't seen Chronicles of Shannara yet. I didn't realize it was out already.
Hi Alex - looks like the quiz is being cracked - thank goodness as I have no idea. Chronicles of Shannara - I don't think they've reached this part of the world.
Gary and his anti version of the IWSG - even though 2,000 people sign up to see him every year ... he's still anti the A-Z .. we need to remind how the alfabett works ... A to Z ... Cheers Hilary
It still fascinates me that MTV makes shows and doesn't really play videos anymore. Glad they are at least making some quality TV. I only watch shows on Netflix or DVD, so I'm way behind, which is fine because then I can gorge on whole seasons at a time! Just watched Luther Season 4.
I'm new to Chronicles of Shannara,too. Sad to admit there wasn't much in films during my childhood, with the exception of Disney. The most famous children's book was Little House on the Prairie, Little Women, and of course, Anne of Green Cables. Cat in the Hat was published in the 50s, but I never found it until I had kids.
I saw the preview for this show and thought it looked interesting. I never read the books but would now.
I saw the preview for this show and thought it looked interesting. I never read the books but would now.
I've seen commercials for the show but haven't watched. I think I'd like to read the books first.
Teresa, read them!
Bish, you're correct.
Shady, that means it might have turned out differently! No sacrifice this time.
Pat, you nailed the trivia! Well done.
Hilary, we do need to remind him.
Shell, it's been years since they really played much music.
Chrys and Sarah, read them!
3) Rapunzel - I was so excited that I knew this, Alex, but then I perused others' responses and saw that it's not the correct answer. Rapunzel is the basis of Tangled, though. Oh, well.
I miss IWSG and Gary - feeling kinda guilty for visitors on those days too, but it's all good and motivating me to get back to celebrity interviews.
Happy new week!
I started the quiz strongly... then got to #2.
I'm in shock over Bowie's death - I think I will be for a long time.
Glad to hear that Shannara on MTV is doing some justice for you Alex. The druid saved the show for me. I almost stopped watching several times because of the MTV-isms that were inserted in the show. I also plan to start watching it the following day as well. I have the book on my TBD wishlist and intend to start buying up the series in February. I am on a real paperback (with the rare Hardback) odyssey and loving it. As of 2014 I have been finally able to truly indulge in book buying and TBD's no shipping charges helps a lot.
With Netflix I am currently watching Race to Dragon's Edge Season 2. Also got nostalgic by watching Mortal Kombat the week before. Then there is The 100 series binge I need (well want really since I did watch the show) to do in time for Season 3's premiere late January. My Netflix vacay is officially over.
Legends of Tomorrow is on my radar big time. Lost TNT last year from my cable network so this lost live Teen Titans does not sting that much. Plus now I have that awful Go version seered into my brain. Teen Titans for me was the cartoon series on Cartoon Network that rocked the house (not the new tyke appropriate version now playing). Daredevil on Netflix is not so much my jam but this trailer for Season 2 grabbed my attention. Now to find the time to watch beyond episode 5...
Congrats to all the authors featured and thanks for more cool news Alex. :)
Submitting to anthologies can be a great way to collect a lot of publishing credits, and get some experience. My local writers' group is planning our own anthology, though we haven't decided how we'll go about founding our own little publishing imprint.
I'm not up on much of anything in this post. I am glad, for your sake, that MTV did not mess up your fave series. I am looking forward to second season of Daredevil, though I have a feeling I will have liked it better before he upgraded his outfit. We shall see. Happy Monday - we are in the January slog.
I really liked the X-Files and somewhat enjoyed the (first) movie.
But...the second movie was dreadful and I'm afraid the new series (albeit abbreviated) will be hideous.
Still gonna watch it, though.
I was waiting for your review before I watched the MTV version of Shannara -- in the trailer, all the stars looked too pretty to have substance to carry a show. In the silent films, actors were chosen as set art pieces instead of their acting ability. I've noticed that trend appearing in some of the new shows on TV.
Congrats to all the anthology winners. High sales! David Bowie's death stunned. My heart goes out to family and friends.
Robyn, close enough! And we did miss you last week.
Annalisa, so will I.
Sheena-kay, we could only expect MTV would do that. I never saw the Teen Titans cartoon, but the comic was one of my favorite when I was a kid.
Carrie-Anne, hope you find a way.
Al, no way they can make the series worse than that second film!
Roland, fortunately they can act. And Bowie's death stunned me this morning.
I still need to read the Chronicles of Shannara. I'm really, really hoping The X-Files will be as good as promised. I loved that series so much. It filled a good majority of my young adulthood.
I've never been able to get into fantasies much. The real world holds enough fascination and mystery for me. The RiffTrack that I want is want that comments on everything around me--it's almost the world I life in now.
Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out
The Shannara Chronicles sounds amazing.
I think I know a few of the trivia answers, but two titles just won't fall into place. ;-)
The MTV show does sound intriguing. I am completely stumped by the movie clues-I can't even figure out one! I hang my head low in defeat. A tie-That is cool. I shall be watching the X-Files as I loved the series but am worried.
Funny, I had the same reaction...I was like MTV?...uh oh. But maybe those fears were unfounded on my part:)
Hadn't heard of the show or the book. Yeah, I suck. Glad to hear the show's pretty good, but I have to laugh that MTV is truly anything but Music TV these days. Also, I dig that Rifftrax app, and we both are very excited for the next season of Daredevil.
By casting John Rhys-Davies they guaranteed they'd have at least one good actor on their show. That's above par for MTV, so, good move!
I'm quite excited for more Daredevil. I've watched the first season three times now, and I like it more on every viewing.
Is 5 something to do with TLOTR?
As always you've packed in tons of information, but the most amazing was the news about Gary and IWSG. He absolutely does think that's initial all about him. I even remember those letter by say, I Was Seeking Gary. What a guy!
Brooks always disappointed me in the end. I hope the TV series is better than the books.
Glad to hear the Chronicles of Shannara are working out pretty well in the TV version. Hope that continues.
David Bowies death is a sadness. I must get his final album - released last Friday on his birthday. His final gift to us all.
Loved the Shannara books when I was younger, I don't know about the TV series though!
I've never read the Shannara books, but I did record the episode. I should get around to watching it tonight. That RiffTrax app sounds great. Because, of course, the hardest part is getting things to sync up. Whoever figured that out is a genius.
Hi Alex,
I'm enjoying Shannara. My reaction was exactly the same....MTV????
I just got online and found out about David Bowie. Not a good way to start my afternoon. =(
I have to admit that I never the Shannara books. Eeek. A big failing on the part of this fantasy fan.
It's always scary to read a TV adaptation of a favorite book, especially in today's market where ANGST is apparently the most essential element of the show. Erg.
Never read the Shannara books, but I've heard lots of people say the new series looks good.
And I am gutted over the David Bowie news. The stars look very different today.
Thanks for the reminder of the X-Files mini series and Legends of Tomorrow. I'm going to be setting my DVR for those shows to be sure I don't miss them. I also agree with everything you've said here regarding the Shannara Chronicles.
I love RiffTrax so much! I hope X-Files turns out to be good. Part of me is paranoid when they resurrect things I loved, but I have hope.
Yes sad to hear about David Bowie today.
Remember when MTV had music? Because I don't.
I can't wait for the next season of DareDevil (I guess it's too soon to be anticipating Jessica Jones). And I have to say, I'd be really surprised if anyone didn't get number five of the trivia.
I will try to catch the MTV series.
David Bowie...what can we say?
I've never been part of an anthology but I was part of planning one once that never came through. It was so much fun to work with other writers, although I think I'd do better with one where I just submit my story on a theme and they give feedback. Working collaboratively was a little dizzying!
I've never heard of the series. I'll have to check it out. Looking forward to watching The Colony.
I'll check out your interview. I've been meaning to read Shannara. I saw it as a kid in the library, but didn't check the books out.
Cherie, I watched every episode.
Lee, my wife and I sometimes do our own RiffTrax.
Brandon and Bryan, been waiting for that app!
Patsy, very close!
Lee, whatever helps you remember.
Andrew, your opinion. I think he rocks.
Elephant, it was his final gift.
Fran, give it a try.
Patricia, it was a heck of a way to start my morning.
LG! Good to hear from you. Yes, they do.
Michael, so far they are doing it right.
JE, that made me chuckle.
Stephanie, like the year we put together the first IWSG book!
I haven't been able to see Shannarah yet - and I've been worried! Glad to hear I can give it a try!! Loved those books - probably time for a reread as it's been a decade or probably 2 :)
I haven't heard of the show, but I would have had the same reaction. MTV? Really?
Oh dear, I'm not up to date on any of this. I'm still trying to catch up on watching Midsomer Murders. :)
L G did a wonderful job!
Hi Alex!
I admit. I didn't read these books. I'll wait to see if you still like the show after episode 6. :)
X-Files! X-Files! X-Files!
Heard about Legends. We shall see. I'm still watching Arrow and The Flash. Arrow sometimes goes off the rails a bit, but we shall see.
You mentioned Daredevil before. I'm really gonna have to find that. :)
Congrats to L.G. and all the entries! I didn't think I could do a short story, but now I have. I'll be ready next time.
Trivia!
1. Narnia?
2. ?
3. Rapunzel? Ummmm...Tangled?
4. Is that the dragon one w/ Matthew McConaughey?
5. LOTR?
Way to go Rifftrack and L G Keltner for going from strength to strength. These days it takes a lot of creative energy to create something special. Fingers crossed - start small and get reach for the stars in Hollywood. You just never know.
The X-Files was a most intriguing series before. Held everyone spell-bound! Hopefully we may get to view it on Jan 24th. Not sure in our region. But would certainly look up Keltner's at IWSG. Should have useful tips to digest!
Hank
Jemi, one of the few series I've re-read.
Heather, you got two and a half right. And you haven't watched DareDevil? Get with it, woman!
Hank, hope you get to catch it.
I really enjoyed the old X-Files. Looking forward to the new one.
The rest of the stuff I don't even know what you're talking about. I still live in the dark ages. Trying to catch up to modern times.
I'm really excited about the X-Files, but it will probably be a while before I see it.
I'd been meaning to watch the Shannara Chronicles when it started, but I lost track of it! Thanks for the reminder and the great review. I'm excited about this, even though I've never read the books. I'm sure I will, now....
Glad you're liking the show, and hurrah for MTV for at least getting it out there (esp. if they're doing a good job). :)
My BIL loves NIN. I can't even count the number of concerts he went to see.
I am so super excited for the X-Files mini series. Can't wait to see how they continue this show!
I don't think Chronicles of Shannara plays here in NZ, and I wonder if any of the premiers you mention will start in January here or months from now.
I'm excited for Legends of Tomorrow and X-Files.
I think I can give a few of those movies a guess.
3 is Tangled.
4 is Fellowship of the Ring (although '99 seems too early for that).
5 is The Hobbit.
I must be the only Brit that doesn't like Games of Thrones! Eeek! It's even big over here in Germany. But I am looking forward to the New X Files. Hopefully it will be as good as the original series. Have a great week!
I'm interested in watching the Shannara Chronicles, but don't have MTV. Maybe it's On Demand.
April 24th. AHHHH WINTER!!! IS COMING!!! lol
1 – I'm extremely curious to know what this is.
2 – Cabin in the Woods???
3 – Tangled!
4 – The Lord of the Rings!
5 – The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey!
(Fellowship of the Ring, forgot to add lol)
Reading review of Shannara made me go back and start watching the show. I forgot about it. I read the books so many years ago I only remember bits and pieces, so probably need to reread.
Juneta Writer's Gambit
I'll be watching the new series on USA called "Colony." Josh Holloway from "Lost" is the main character. The little documentary about the making of the series was on already, and it hooked me.
Cathy, second episode airs tonight! Still time to catch up.
Michael, you got two right!
Deborah, you can watch some of the episodes on the MTC site. And you got three of the trivia correct.
Patricia, I'm thinking about that one.
Can't wait to see X-Files!
Happy New Year Alex! I have seen the Chronicles of Shannara. I'll check it out. You know what I'm really looking forward to....January 24th!!! I can't wait. I'm super excited. I almost don't want it to be over. I am also looking forward to Legends of Tomorrow. I'm curious, but skeptical. Thankfully DC does television so well!
Shannara is certainly pretty to look at, and I loved the music, but the music doesn't let up which, I think, adds to that whole feeling of angst. I'll keep watching. (As a teen, I loved the books too).
Hey Alex!
Dude, never heard of the Chronicles of Shannara but I'm sure it will end up over here in the lil' ol' UK. Plenty of stuff in your article. There is always plenty of stuff in your articles. It's really good how you ask questions at the end of your articles.
It's been noted and of course, besides being officially the Anti-A to Z spokesman, the irony is, as you know, my anti rants actually get that idiotic alphabet challenge more attention as it's noted by my dwindling followers. Yes, my followers are dwindling. Something I said. Who knows. A number of folks have told me that they remember IWSG much easier when they think of it as "I Was Seeking Gary." It does stand for that, right? Yes, Gary, delusional as ever!
"Let"s Dance" and celebrate the life of a man who was so much a part of many of our lives. Ziggy still plays guitar.
Cheers, Alex.
Gary
David Bowie's passing really brought back sweet memories. In college one of my fave albums was his Hunky Dory, which I played to death. Some years ago I also caught him in concert -- what a talented man.
I have considered reading the Chronicles of Shannara for a while, but the long list of Shannara books I saw was quite intimidating! Is there a certain book/trilogy that's better to start with? I'm looking forward to season 2 of Daredevil and the Legends of Tomorrow.
Movie Trivia guesses: 1-Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, 2-don't know, 3-Tangled, 4-don't know, 5-The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey
I blush to admit, I'm clueless on the trivia questions.
You know, I attempted to read the Shannara series way back in the day (when all I read was epic fantasy). I loved the Magic Kingdom for Sale books, but I couldn't get into this series. Too slow. We watched the first two episodes and I too was impressed with the quality, although I had a hard time buying Will's character (not because it wasn't portrayed well, but the actor playing him was OBVIOUSLY not the naive boy and that kind of pulled me out). Regardless, it looks like it will be good.
I'm so looking forward to X-files, GOT and DareDevil. I haven't heard much about the Chronicles of Shannara, I'll look that up!
Whoa, whoa, whoa. There was going to be a live action Teen Titans? And they nixed it?!! Curse you, TNT! I'm a huge Teen Titans fan. I even have a sweatshirt with the team on it. My son and I are currently reading the Tiny Titans comics. It's the Teen Titans and other sidekicks when they were elementary school age. Okay, now that I have that out of my system, I watched the first episode of Shannara too. While I don't think it was bad, I just can't handle all that angst! My hope, like yours, is that it will at least bring readers to the books. My fingers are crossed for the new X-Files.
I was interested when I saw MTV was doing Shannara. I'm glad to see they are doing a good job with it!
I watched the first episode of Shannara...and it did interest me in the books- I have not read them and as you know I'm elf kind of lady...LOL but Terry Brooks tends to be a lot more long winded than I like in my books so my fear is that I will start reading and not be able to finish which would ruin the experience for me as the first episode has raised an expectation I'm not sure will be met...because as you said they up the angst...which is only reasonable for TV to do anyway- but I don't generally watch the show and read the book- usually it's one or the other...I'm undecided so we shall see what happens.
REALLY looking forward to the new X-Files series! I was a huge fan when it ran the first time...although they definitely had some missteps (the second movies was a disaster), but I love the core idea.
I'm about to get another 'you been blogging again?' when hubby needs to find these things for me, hee heee hee
I love anthologies--a great way to read/write shorter pieces
I am sorry to say I have never read the Shannara books, but after hearing all the buzz, I really want to! I definitely will before watching the show, at any rate.
MsMariah, I think most of us are really stoked for the X-Files!
Lynda, good point.
Gary, there are a lot of people who remember IWSG by I Was Seeking Gary! And I think there was a great purge of followers the past few weeks - many have lost some.
Elizabeth, you got three! And start with The Sword of Shannara - that was the very first book.
Crystal, on the flip side of that, I never could get into Piers Anthony.
Christine, you rock!
Kane, Brooks' early books moved at a faster speed.
DL, the second movie was horrible!
When is hte Chronicles of Shannara on? I'll have to look that up.
Looking forward to the return of Agent Carter and X-Files.
I've read and loved the Shannara Series!! I even went so far as to ask for Terry Brooks friendship on Goodreads and he accepted me. I was thrilled. I heard this TV series was coming out, I'll have to watch.
We watched X-Files religiously, hoping it will be just as good!!!
I had the same reaction when I heard MTV was involved. Like you, I enjoyed the first two hours. DVRed the next episode and can hardly wait to watch it!! It's always nice when it doesn't let us down, especially when it's a book series we've enjoyed from our childhood.
I'm so behind in my blogging and such. I'm hoping to catch up now.
At least in your music battle, I died. The one from Shady I was blown away pretty much. :(
I never have seen the series you are talking about, but with John Rhys-Davies in it. Hmmmmmmm May have to check it out.
Unfortunately, I've been getting sick and tired of trying to watch a cool new TV show only to have it cancelled after the first season.
Trivia - I'm guessing the first is Twilight? 5 is Lord of the Rings?
The beautiful Marvel's Daredevil!
I am enjoying Shannara show. I have not read the books myself. I never know where to start lol.
I was sad to hear about the Teen Titans, but maybe we will get a movie now. I think this season of Daredevil will be awesome.
Hm, I knew about the Shannara series, but didn't realize it was MTV. Are they getting into original series that aren't reality now? Maybe they have been for awhile, but we don't have cable, and I lost track of MTV a long, long time ago.
great review! I don't watch tv but now I wanna check out the books, thanks Alex!
Never read the Shannara books. I always figured them to have a big humorous element to them and I don't read a lot of that kind of thing.
I'm so glad you keep me up to date on what's on TV and in the movies. I gave up TV 6 months ago to write more, so don't know anything. (And I don't think I'm really writing more...)
Congrats to LG for the short story win! Congrats to TF on her new novella (which is great btw)!
You never know if seeing a book on the TV screen is going to be as good as reading it do you? I'm not familiar with that series but how great to get reconnect with something from your teen years.
I just read your interview.Well said about don't write for the money and doubt yourself, it sucks out all the joy.
Have a great weekend, Alex.
I have not read the Shannara books or seen the show- though I have been seeing the ads for the show. Sounds like they are both good. You made me curious about the books. :)
~Jess
It's always exciting when a movie or TV show is made from one's favorite books. Unless they change it so much it's unrecognizable. I could never watch the Little House TV series because it was completely unlike the books I'd loved as a kid.
That is one cool app! And congrats to T.F. Walsh!
Watched first episode of The Chronicles of Shannara yesterday and I like... hope it stays good.
And OMG Daredevil 2 is coming soon. I can't tell you how much I loved season one.
Your review of The Chronicles of Shannara on MTV has piqued my curiosity. I'll have to check it out. Hope you have a great weekend.
Mary, it's Tuesday nights.
Cathrina, I got to meet him once. Still have the book with his autograph.
Jeffrey, like Firefly? And close on the trivia.
Brandon, start with the first book, Sword of Shannara.
Charles, they're more of a lighter LOTR.
Sandra, yes it does.
Karen, sorry!
TF, the second episode was good. And they slowed the plot down a bit.
Hi Alex, yes I can agree how much of a relief it is when a much awaited Film or TV drama is better than feared. Sometimes the hype can sour expectations. I also find that if reviews are poor, expectations can improve and vice versa!
Hmmm, I have to check out Chronicles of Shannara. My interest is heightened with your review!
Rather glad that you said good things about it, because my friend was distinctly unimpressed with it. But you, being a Shannara fan, clinched it for me. Surely a Shannara fan knows what he's talking about lol.
PS: Came here via Anne R Allen. She highly recommends you :P
Ooh, I haven't read those books. Why have I not read them?
"Focus more on character development" ha ha! As if! This is my enduring complaint with the visual medium. They never ever do this (Gandalf and Denethor fist fighting!?!?). Is it something in the medium itself? I'll bet there's a Marshall McLuhan essay on it somewhere...
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