Monday, June 6, 2016

Book to Movie Dream, The Night Manager Review, Question of the Month, New Releases, and What Movies Have Held Up Over Time?

Thanks to everyone who joined us last Wednesday for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group.

I am in need of co-hosts!

If you can co-host July 6, August 3, or September 7, leave a comment or send me an email. Thanks!


I also have the honor of a guest post at Anne R. Allen’s Blog on Sunday, June 12!


My New Dream by Lori L. MacLaughlin

Thanks very much, Alex, for having me over!!

When I published my first book, I realized a dream. But now that I've reached that star, I've had to come up with a new dream. Something that seems as far out of reach as my first dream did back then. What better thing to choose than to see my book made into a movie?

I'm sure I'm not the only one who's had this dream. What author doesn't fantasize about seeing their story come to life on the big screen?

Hmmm... what actors would I choose for the MCs? The hero? Based on looks alone, I'd pick Joe Manganiello. I hope he can act.

The heroine? That's a bit more difficult. She's a swordfighter who is tough on the outside to hide her inner vulnerability. The actress would need the platinum blonde looks of Tanya Roberts in the movie Sheena (though with... ahem... more appropriate clothing), the devil-may-care attitude of Sandahl Bergman from Conan the Barbarian (again, with more reasonable clothing, though I have to admit, Conan didn't have much on either), and the sword handling skills of Xena, Warrior Princess or Red Sonja. (Can't any of these warrior women get decent battle attire? I mean, seriously. Who would go into battle half dressed? At least Xena had some armor.)

It would also be nice if she had some acting ability, unlike some of the above actresses, and I do mean some and not all. Some were good, if a bit over the top at times, but others were, shall we say, not Academy Award winners.

The other problem is that my heroine is left-handed, and I don't think that can be faked.

Anyone know of any good left-handed actresses that could handle the role? What actors/actresses would you choose for your characters?


Tara Triannon is no stranger to trouble. She's yet to find an enemy her skill with a sword couldn't dispatch. But how can she fight one that attacks through her dreams?

Find it at:  Amazon  Barnes & Noble  Kobo  iBooks



Review – The Night Manager

This mini-series is based on the John le Carre novel of the same name. The night manager of an Egyptian hotel is recruited by British intelligence to infiltrate an international arms dealer’s network.
This was an excellent spy mini-series, largely in part to the exotic locations and the top notch acting.
Everyone involved brings their A game. Hugh Laurie is charming with an underlying tone of menace. Tom Hiddleston is completely believable as the tormented night manager turned spy. Also starring Tom Hollander, Olivia Colman, and Elizabeth Debicki.
This six episode series ran on AMC and you can now find it on iTunes and Amazon. Highly recommended!

Question of the Month

Hosted by Michael at A Life Examined

The question is – “Of all the places in the world that you haven’t yet been to, where would you like to go next?”

I’ve been to some cool places – Japan, England, France, Scotland, Canada, etc.

But one place I haven’t been that I’d still like to see is New Zealand. It’s a beautiful, diverse country, and it would be cool to see the locations where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed.

And bonus – unlike Australia, I won’t have to contend with the world’s deadliest snakes and spiders! (Sorry, Michael.)

New Releases!

Tuck Watley: Freedom Fighter Fighter by Bryan Pedas and Brandon Meyers

And, as an added incentive to their blog friends, if you buy the $2.99 eBook and promise to leave a review, they will send you a free autographed paperback copy. (USA only.)

Buy it on Amazon

Welcome to Sortilege Falls by Libby Heily

Find it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble

And the Lark Arose From the Sullen Earth by Ursula Hartlein (CarrieAnne Brownian)

Find it on Amazon





Movies That Stand the Test of Time

Last week we pulled an older movie off the shelf to watch. And I was really surprised by how well it had held up in terms of the story, how the movie looked, and the special effects. Some films don’t hold up well after twenty-thirty years. (Some don’t make it as far as ten years.)

That got me to thinking about what films have stood the test of time:

The Thing (1982) This is the film we watched and the special effects are still top-notch and just as good as the recent ‘remake.’ No corny dialogue and the film score is as haunting as ever.

Jaws (1975) Despite all the issues they had with Bruce the shark, the effects still look good and the dialogue is snappy. The only thing that dates it is the clothing.

Jurassic Park (1993) Yes, I still believe the dinosaurs are real. They look just as good as the latest film. Plus the film is as solid as ever.

Aliens (1986) Considering the amount of special effects (mostly physical ones) and sets, this one is really impressive. The aliens still move real and great performances keep it fresh.

Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) This one impresses me the most. It came out the same year as Star Wars, but if Lucas hadn’t redone some of the special effects, Close Encounters would now look light years ahead of Star Wars. The spaceship at the end is still jaw-dropping. A little dated with the clothing but great performances keep this movie relevant.



What movies over twenty years do you think have held up well?


Who would you pick to play in the movie version of your book? Have you seen The Night Manager? What new place would you travel to? And what movie still looks great today after all these years…?

And if you can co-host the IWSG, please let me know!

144 comments:

Just Keepin It Real, Folks! said...

Funny you should mention Jaws because I had to watch it for like the millionth time this weekend. Love those "special effects" that were terrifying back in the day. And my paperback copy of Tuck Whatley has shipped! Looking forward to a great laugh.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I would love to see New Zealand as well.

Movie everlasting. I'm not sure, but I did watch a Dracula movie from the 1970s (I think) the other day and a zombie movie from that era as well. A movie that has stuck in my mind since childhood was called I think The Blob. It caught up with people and stripped their bones of flesh. Wow was I ever traumatized. Jaws is a classic for sure.

Teresa

Cathrina Constantine said...

Hmmm...I haven't heard of the Night Manager yet. But I like both actors. I haven't seen Laurie since House. Congrats to Lori, her book sounds amazing.

Just saw Jaws on TV the other day. I'm an old movie fan, watch them all the time. I did get one of my kids hooked on them. I remember when they were young and they asked me what the movie was rated. No rating. Nothing bad except people smoking.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Some places I'd like to see are Ireland and Liverpool (for the Beatles).

Natalie Aguirre said...

I'd love to go to New Zealand too or the English or Scottish countryside. That's awesome you've been to so many other cool places.

Mason Canyon said...

Lori, hope you get your book made into a movie. Sounds like it would make a good one. Congrats to everyone with new releases.

Alex, you picked some great movies that have definitely stood the test of time. Those are the type movies I go back to time and time again. The only other film that comes to mind is The Abyss and I'm not sure how old it is.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I think maybe Donald Rumsfeld should play my Miles character, but he's no actor! Or is he? :)

I did actually watch Night Manager and really enjoyed it. We've unplugged (for the most part), so I watched it on Sling. I hear Tom Hiddleston used that role as an audition for Bond?

nashvillecats2 said...

Great post Alex, love all the news of new books and films.
You mentioned "Jurassic Park", We live what is known as The Jurassic coastline.....between Devon and Dorset as many fossils are found here.
Yvonne.

Shady Del Knight said...

Hi, Alex!

I'd love to visit New Zealand, too. A while back I had an Australian friend who vacationed in New Zealand. In her post series I learned a lot about the country and saw its beauty. Tasmania also interests me.

I have seen every one of the films on your list of Movies That Stand the Test of Time and I agree that they do. I love watching them again and again.

Have a great week, Alex!

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - I'd love to see NZ and Australia - I'll avoid the little blighters when I visit! I haven't see the films - as you'd expect ...

I saw Brief Encounter earlier in May - that was good .. now the next train film: The Titfield Thunderbolt - they are excellent railway connection films ...

Hope people come forward to help you host ... cheers Hilary

Sarah Foster said...

I've thought about my book being turned into a movie so much that I've told myself to tone it down a little. But it is fun to think about!

Yolanda Renée said...

New Zealand would be one of my picks too, but I'd have to go to Australia to visit Denise! :)
I like a lot of the old movies especially Jurassic Park! Sometimes it's nice to go back in time, clothes and all. :)
I'd love to help with the IWSG, I've cut back to Monday posts too, but always planned to do the IWSG. I'll send an email.

Anonymous said...

Thanks again, Alex, for hosting me! The Night Manager sounds intriguing. I'll definitely have to look that one up. I'd like to see Machu Picchu. I've always been fascinated by ruins and ancient civilizations. New Zealand and the LOTR sites would be a close second, though. Congrats to the new releases! Jaws, Jurassic Park, and Alien still scare the heck out of me. I haven't seen The Thing. Another one for my TBW list. I don't remember that much about Close Encounters. I'll have to pull that one out again. Have a great week!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Deb, cool you're getting a signed copy of Tuck.

Teresa, I remember that version of The Blob. It attacked a movie theater.

Cathrina, funny how movies once weren't rated.

Mason, that one was on my list!

Elizabeth, not sure. He still says he has no idea if he'll get the role.

Yolanda, thanks!

H. R. Sinclair said...

Congrats Lori!

I'd love to go to NZ too. As for movies...Ferris Bueller's Day Off is another one that still holds up.

Anonymous said...

Cathrina — Thank you!

Mason — Thank you! It would be amazing if it actually happened.

Elizabeth — That's a great question!

Sarah — Yes, it's a lot of fun to think about. We can dream...

Charles Gramlich said...

I agree with all your movies that stand the test of time. Close encounters is the only one of those I haven't rewatched in recent years.

Carol Kilgore said...

Hi, Alex! New Zealand is high on my bucket list, too. Huge congrats to Bryan and Brandon on their new book, and on the others with new releases, too.

Tamara Narayan said...

I would be happy to cohost either August or September.

I've seen all of those old movies you mention. I'd like to see The Thing again. Scared me to pieces. I enjoy re-watching The Color Purple, The Exorcist, Gladiator, The Big Chill, Steel Magnolias, The Shawshank Redemption, and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

I once dreamed I was sitting in a theater about to watch the world premier of a movie based on my first book, but that poor thing hasn't even been published. Oh well.

Tyrean Martinson said...

I just made my kids watch Close Encounters of the Third Kind for the first time (for them) ... and they weren't fans, but I still liked it.

Lori - love both of your books! I think it would be awesome to see them as movies - there has to be a left-handed actress that could handle the role (with clothes on).

Traveling - I would like to see New Zealand, too, and Norway (hubs has cousins there), and ... too many places to name.

I could co-host in July.

Tonja Drecker said...

New Zealand, Alaska, Norway and Scotland are on my 'would love to see' list. As for movies, I have a lot of older ones I enjoy and especially the older children ones are still a hit with my kids.

Lori's books are awesome and I'm betting there's a left-handed actress out there somewhere.

And if you still need a co-host for August, count me in.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I can co-host for July....

Totally with you on all those movies! We've actually watched a bunch of older movies lately and were amazed at how well they held up - Absolute Power, The Negotiator, The Pelican Brief.

Saw Me Before You this weekend - totally loved it!

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

I hope your book becomes a movie, Lori. That would be exciting.

My favorite movies are oldies, but I still enjoy them. Gone with the Wind and Rebel Without a Cause. Westside Story is another one I like.

Have a great week.

Pat Hatt said...

Avoiding the deadly snakes and such is a good plan lol seeing ones book made into a movie is a grand dream indeed. Those ones do hold up pretty well. Just watched Deep Rising, cheesy alien rip off, again the other day and that still holds up pretty well too.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

I had the honor and pleasure of reading a bit of Tuck Watley, Freedom Fighter Fighter. By far, it's the most brilliantly funny stuff I've ever read.

Happy week, Alex.

Kathe W. said...

I found the Night Manager on Netflix also! It's in my queue- thanks for the tip!
And oodles of thanks for being such a great visitor and commentor on my blog! Cheers!

Arlee Bird said...

Having a book made into a film would be awesome. When I wrote my NaNo novels I was visualizing what I was writing in a cinematic ways as though I was watching the film version. That's the way I read too if the writing allows me to do so easily.

Black and white film noir still looks great to me though I guess it does look dated. But many of those older films are far better than today's color effects laden films.

Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out

Sheena-kay Graham said...

That Sheena movie is a lie! I would never bleach my skin. Or hair. Yes authors have imagined actors for their books. Though I'm more interested in that for when a novel I enjoy reading gets adapted than my own work. I did a dream cast way back for Wake by Amanda Hocking. Hopefully the upcoming Mermaid movie wars will help get her book some much needed attention. Movies that stand the test of time are always a good thing. Have heard good things about The Night Manager but have not watched it yet. Though knowing now there is also Hugh Laurie. I need to get my act together and see this! Love you Tom but Hugh is the shit. Get him in a Marvel movie, stat! Can he sneak into Wakanda and get a cameo for Black Panther?

cleemckenzie said...

Thanks for the post, Lori. Great to have dreams, so I hope they keep coming. I'm casting my new book and finding it great fun, so we're on the same page this month!

Alex, I'll take the Sept. co-host if you still need someone

Congrats to all the authors with new books out. And when I saw The Thing I didn't sleep for a week. Wonder how it will affect me if I see it again?

Bish Denham said...

I've put The Night Manager on my to watch list. Scotland is where I want to go.

Hmmm, who could be the voice for Anansi the Spider? Where he alive, Bob Marley. I'll have to think about the voice for Marvin P. Tinkleberry, lizard extraordinaire. Someone young sounding.

Older movies that still work? How Star Trek: The Journey Home.

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Thanks for the review of The Night Manager. I've been wondering about that one!

Joanne said...

Loved the night manager - it was excellent acting and rip-roaring plot. Kept me guessing.
Places to go - Russia and Japan - probably about as exotic as I'd get
Congrats to your featured author for her dream - I think Claire Danes is a lefty - great actress, smart, and attractive. She's tiny but can move fast
Movies that stand up to time - Risky Business, Ghostbusters, and Thelma & Louise
Great Monday kick-off to a super week - we have sunshine!!!

Chrys Fey said...

Lori, I fantasize about my books becoming movies and who would play my characters. A left-handed warrior is cool!

Alex, New Zealand would be a beautiful place to visit.

Liesel K. Hill said...

I'm so glad you liked the Night Manager. I have all six parts on my DVR but haven't watched them. Can't wait. Okay, I know it hasn't been 20 years yet (only 15 for #1) but I still think LOTR holds up well. I watched part of Two Towers over the weekend with my brother and the special effects really don't feel at all outdated yet. Go Peter Jackson! :D

Liesel K. Hill said...

By the way, I meant to add that I'd be willing to host one of the IWSG dates if you're still in need. I know I'm a member, though I'll admit I rarely participate, and am not sure what hosting entails. But feel free to send me an email with the details. At the very least, maybe it will make me more active in it. ;D

Anonymous said...

H.R. — Thank you!

Tamara — Maybe that's a sign of things to come. :)

Tyrean — Thanks so much! If I have anything to say about the costuming, they'll have proper battle attire.

Tonja — Thanks very much! I'm sure there must be.

Beverly — Thank you! It would be very exciting indeed!

Pat — I'd like to avoid those deadly snakes, too.

Arlee — I like to visualize my books that way. When I'm writing, it's like I'm seeing the movie in my head.

Sheena-kay — Yes, I think she's naturally a brunette. It's always interesting to see who gets cast for movies based on books I've read. They don't usually look like I imagined them, though.

C. Lee — Ha, ha, it's fun to do, isn't it?

Bish — I think Bob Marley would have been great for that kind of role.

Joanne — Thank you! I've seen Claire Danes in a few things but never paid attention to which-handed she was. I'll have to go look now. Thanks for the suggestion!

kaykuala said...

The Night Manager seems an awesome mini-series. Hopefully to see it when it comes by. Perhaps Hank can follow Yusuf on one to South America. Congrats to all on the new releases. Seen Jaws and Jurassic Park. Great movies.

Hank

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lori, you're welcome!

Holly, that's a funny movie.

Charles, we caught the second half recently and I was just amazed.

Tamara, thanks! And hang on to that dream.

Tyrean, thank you!

T, appreciate it.

Madeline, thanks!

Pat, good one! That's a classic B monster film.

Sheena-kay - funny!

Lee, thanks. And probably the same.

Bish, good one.

Joanne, that's why I don't understand why they are redoing Ghostbusters.

LK, LOTR does still look really good. Wow, it has been fifteen years, hasn't it? Thanks for the co-host offer!

Hank, you need to go on one of his journeys.

stephen Hayes said...

We started the Night Manager but lost interest about halfway through.

mail4rosey said...

Nice to meet your guest! And big dreams are how big dreams come true. :)

J.H. Moncrieff said...

I'd love to go to Egypt or Peru next. Egypt is a lot cheaper, and I've wanted to go there forever, so that's probably where I'll head. Or Thailand! Can't pick just one.

I find it really difficult to choose actors for movie versions of my books. I just can't picture anyone who fits. That's why casting directors get paid the big bucks. :)

Rachna Chhabria said...

Most of Amitabh Bachchan's movies (he is an Indian Super Star) look great even after so many years, especially his classics like Trishul, Kabhi Kabhi, Chupke Chupke, Deewar, Sholay. Most people (including me) love watching his earlier movies.
I can co-host for July 6th.

Will hop over to Anne's blog on Sunday June 12th to read your guest post.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I do still enjoy the original Jurassic Park and Jaws never gets old. Let me know if you need me for IWSG except for August. Don't all writers dreams of their books being made into movies? Of course, the movie business doesn't always do a good job of that.

Carrie-Anne said...

That's awesome that Lori made her protagonist a lefty! As a sinistral chauvinist, I always have a lot of lefties and ambidextrians in my books. Usually I have it running within the same families.

When my brother and I visited our parents in South Carolina in December, we rented Coming to America on AppleTV Netflix, and my brother agreed it held it really well. It seems like films from more recently in film history date quicker than older films. I often get the impression I'm watching someone from a certain decade, in a film made in that decade, instead of a film which just happened to be made in a certain decade.

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

Within the past year, I have re-watched all of the movies on your list (amazing, huh?) and I agree with you! All totally great-- you finally got me over to your side re: John Carpenter's The Thing, vis a vis the original Thing which I have sentimental feelings for!
Jean

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Gone with the Wind, of course! It's an awesome movie. Timeless classic.

I'll co-host. I'll email you my demands. LOL.

Sandra Cox said...

Happy Monday, Alex.
Congrats to all our wonderful authors with new releases.

Julie Flanders said...

I LOVED The Night Manager! I was bummed when it ended.

Great to see Lori here. Congrats, Lori! I love your new dream.

Jaws and Jurassic Park are the first movies that come to my mind when it comes to timeless. I never tire of either one.

And I'd be happy to co-host again. I missed this month and need to get back on the horse. I can do any of those months so just let me know which one you need the most help for.

Anonymous said...

Chrys — Thanks! That's right, I've seen some of your character picks on your blog. Nice!

Rosey — Nice to meet you, too! I like that thought. :)

J.H. — I'd like to see the pyramids someday. Sometimes I wonder how casting directors choose the actors they do. Sometimes they're spot on and other times they leave me scratching my head.

Susan — The fact that they don't always do a good job makes me nervous. Maybe I should take up screenwriting...

Carrie-Anne — Yay for more lefty characters!

Julie — Thank you!

Andrew Leon said...

I haven't seen Close Encounters in a long time.
Or any of those, actually.

Suzanne Furness said...

New Zealand would be an awesome place to visit, hope you get the opportunity one day. So many great places out there... I've always wanted to see Niagara Falls. Night Manager was very popular here.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

Highest of sales, Lori!

New Zealand has been my dream destination since XENA. Of course, I will not meet Lucy Lawless or Cate Blanchett there even if I win the lottery and get to go. But the natural beauty there will be enough I believe. :-)

ALIENS and THE THING are both movies I still re-watch from time to time since I like them both so much.

While a bit slow, THE NIGHT MANAGER still was an excellent series. Have you watched any of PREACHER yet? I believe Amazon still has the hour long pilot available for free.

Thanks for visiting my blog today. :-)

A Beer for the Shower said...

First off, thanks for the mention of the book!

Second off, I still think Australia would be a great place to visit, because I assume Michael, having survived some 20-something years on the continent, knows the best places to not be eaten by tree-sized spiders and how best to fight off a gang of roving cobras.

Oh, and personally, I love the idea of a Tuck Watley movie, but I just fear that they would cast someone like Seth Rogan or Adam Sandler, thus nullifying all comedic value.

Rebecca Green Gasper said...

Oh, yes, Jurassic Park for sure. And Jaws. Those are good movies that have held their place over time! I would have to add Breakfast Club and Pretty in Pink. I also love Back to the Future...

As for the question- I have been to the Colorado Sand Dunes...everywhere else in Co but there. I might have to take a road trip this summer...

Best always

The Cynical Sailor said...

I feel fortunate to have lived in New Zealand for five years. Such an absolutely stunning country with amazingly friendly people. Hope you get there one day. We're hoping to get to travel to the Caribbean next on our boat. I'm really looking forward to that.

Happy to help with co-hosting in July or August. Cheers - Ellen

Christine Rains said...

Oh yes, New Zealand. I'd love to go there! Congrats to Lori. I like thinking of actors for my characters too, but since I'm so out of the loop with younger actors, I can't name any offhand! Excellent movie choices for those that stand up over time, Alex.

Susan said...

I doubt I will ever get there, but I do hear New Zealand is a place of incredible beauty.

Anonymous said...

Roland — Thank you!

Beer for the S — That would definitely ruin it.

Christine — Thanks! I'm going to have to do some research.

Elephant's Child said...

Congratulations Lori, I hope your dream does come true.
Yes we have snakes and spiders, but many, many people have never seen either. NZ is beautiful though.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Jaws definitely, also Jurassic Park!

I like period movies :) so no worries re that part of going back. Just watched Rebecca for the umpteenth time the other day, I think most of Hitchcock's films would feel like they'd be good to watch even when I'm 80 or something. Gone with the Wind. Roman Holiday. Life is Beautiful.

And I can't even think of choosing just one place - a list as long as my arm! But I am hoping to visit N Am next.

Best wishes to all authors on realising their dreams, film related and others.

The Angry Lurker said...

Need to see the night manager and I thought Blade Runner has held up well!

Jeffrey Scott said...

I've never been to Germany or Japan, so I think either of those would be cool. Domestically, I still would like to visit Alaska, Arizona, Washington State, and New York City.
As for older films, if it's one I like, I don't care how old it is, I'll watch it. For the sheer insanity of it, I still watch Monty Python's Holy Grail and laugh each and every time.
As for IWSG, I'm still interested in doing a co-host for a month. July would probably work best. I'm unsure about August or September yet.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

JH, I'd go to Thailand just for the food.

Rachna, thanks!

Susan, thank you, and no they don't.

Jean, good for you!

Elizabeth, now I'm scared...

Julie, thanks!

Roland, watched the first two. It's interesting so far.

Brandon and Bryan, you're welcome. And those would be awful casting choices.

Thanks, Ellen!

Fran, good pick.

Jeffrey, thanks! And I can watch Holy Grail over and over. You'd like Arizona. I lived there as a kid.

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

I think the original Star Wars trilogy without any enhancements, etc., still stands the test of time. It's hard to find copies of those, however.

Cherie Reich said...

That left-handed casting would make it harder to find someone, but I'm sure there is some left-handed actress who could learn how to sword fight left-handed. It would be awesome to have a book turned into a movie, but sometimes I think the casting should be left to the professionals. LOL! Congrats, Lori!

I definitely agree about Jaws and Jurassic Park. I'd add Halloween. The outfits may be rather outdated, but it's classic horror and still holds up.

Unknown said...

you're not alone, Lori! It's so good to dream! :) and for the question, I have always wanted to go to Australia!

Jenni said...

I would love to go to New Zealand, Scotland, or Italy. I haven't seen the Night Manager, but it definitely looks intriguing. Ah, I remember really enjoying Close Encounters when I was a kid. And my kids just watched Jurassic Park these weekend--so it definitely stands up to time.

CA Heaven said...

I agree on New Zealand. It's on my top 3 list. I've been working with some geophysical data from New Zealand recently, but unfortunately I had no need to go there.

Cold As Heaven

Stephanie Faris said...

You can sign me up as co-host for September if you're still in need of someone.

The Night Manager sounded like it would have been a great Stephen King short story! But as described here...nah. Doesn't sound like my kinda thing.

Janie Junebug said...

My daughter watched The Lord of the Rings movies so many times that I can understand why you want to visit New Zealand (I AM right that it was filmed there? If not, then never mind.). I've heard from many people that it's beautiful.

Love,
Janie

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Michael, we had the old VHS tapes - they were bad!!

Cold, hope you get the chance.

Stephanie, I do!

Janie, you are correct.

Anonymous said...

I can cohost in August!

New Zealand would be beautiful to visit. And yes, that is a bonus that not as much stuff there wants to kill you. I'm pretty sure EVERYTHING in Australia wants you dead.

DMS said...

Awesome to see Libby Heily's book here today! Yeah!

I would love to visit Australia or New Zealand. Both would be amazing for sure. .

Love the movies you included. I think The Shining has also stood the test of time. You've got me thinking now. :)
~Jess

Unknown said...

I've been impressed for a long time over how real the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park seem. I get even more impressed as more time passes.

You don't have to fear being poisoned in Australia. Nobody's died of a spider bite here since 1979 (around the time they created anti-venom) and the snakes only show up in the outback where there's more trees than people.

Anonymous said...

Elephant's Child — Thank you!

Nilanjana — Thanks, and I agree on Hitchcock films!

Cherie — I'm sure there's an lefty actress out there somewhere that could do it. Thanks!

Beth Ellyn — Yes, it is!

Liz A. said...

You know, if you want a movie made out of your book, you could always write a screenplay and try to sell it... But that would be too much work (and it's hard to sell screenplays). Never mind.

Birgit said...

Oh who would play my mom if I ....when I write that book about her. I really have no clue who could play her. She could not be tall, she would have to look frail and pale but be one strong spitfire. I can't watch any alien movie...too scary for me. I love your other picks and I always thought Bruce was realistic to me. I would say the films that stood the test of time....1. It's aWomderful Life.2. Casablanca 3. Nosferatu..the. Silent film...yup silent. 4. The Shining 5. Jaws...I'm in full agreement:)

Erika Beebe said...

Lori, I love how your main character is left handed.

And movies that stand the test of time, definitely Grumpy Old Men.

Barbara In Caneyhead said...

Off hand, I can think of anywhere in the world I particularly want to go, but there are many places I would tag along to. I was in high school when Jaws and Close Encounters were in the theaters. Jaws scared the piss out of me! I never had any thought to watch another. Close encounters was a cool movie. There was lots of thought on aliens and paranormal stuff in the 70's. As a teen and a young adult, I considered them all. Then I arrived at the belief they were all hokum.

Rhonda Albom said...

And of course, once you get here (New Zealand), you will get to meet me! Interesting question, and naturally the one I focused in on today - While the top of my list is still Jordan, it is not next. We are currently planning for South East Asia later this year, and then South America early next year, all before we will get back to the Middle East.

As for the movies, we just watched Jurassic Park not that long ago - Aliens gave me nightmares, and I still haven't seen (by choice) Jaws. One of my favorite really oldies: Wizard of Oz.



Anonymous said...

I haven't seen The Thing and Close Encounters yet. I find it hard picking out actors for my books.

Nicola said...

The Night Manager is well worth a watch! It's already finished in the UK. Won't throw any spoilers out there, but it's intense, thrilling and some superb acting!

Congratulations, Lori!!

My brother lived in New Zealand for a while and loved it. He lived on the South island, right at the bottom (brrr..it can get a bit chilly). Lots of amazing landscape and wild-life to enjoy. I would love to travel across Canada at some point.

Have a great week!

Truedessa said...

First Congrats to all the authors of new releases. Bravo for getting your book out there. There are a couple of places that I would like to visit, but I think right now I would like to go to Peru to visit the ancient ruins. Of course Bora Bora is on the list (smiling) someday I might see this fantasy island. Oh and here in the states I have Monument Valley on my to do list. Hopefully, this year.

Close Encounters has always intrigued me and I think it stands through the hourglass because of the basic concept and the human drive that compels us in the journey of life. A higher calling of sorts. I have to say one of my favorite movies is You've Got Mail. I know I am a hopeless romantic. So be it!

Have a great week!

Murees Dupè said...

Congratulations to everyone with a new release. I agree, visiting all the locations where The Lord of the Rings were filmed sounds like a great idea. I was in New Zealand a few years back and it is a beautiful country. Unfortunately, I didn't get to do The Lord of the Rings tour:( Have a great week, Alex.

Denise Covey said...

New place to travel to? Cuba is pretty high on the list. It's amazing to see the locations for LOTR in New Zealand. Snakes? Well I've lived in Oz all my life and only seen 2 or 3 snakes. They do curdle your blood, but it is rare for anyone to get bitten. That's the job of sharks and crocodiles, especially lately where we've had a rash of fatalities from both. Ugh!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Patricia. And I think you're right.

Michael, I'll just avoid the outback.

Birgit, Nosferatu is still powerful.

Barbara, they are. But still fun to watch.

Rhonda, that's very cool.

Nicola, it's a great mini series.

Murees, bummer.

Denise, scary.

Karen Lange said...

It's interesting how some films hold up over time and others don't. One long time favorite of mine is The Princess Bride. Our family utilizes lines from it all the time, so it is a classic in our minds. Have a great week! :)

Anonymous said...

Liz A. — I've seriously thought about doing that. I'd like to try writing a screenplay for it and see where it went.

Birgit — Your mom sounds like she'd be a wonderfully feisty character.

Erika — Thanks! I've always found the idea of being left-handed a little mysterious (probably because I'm not). And Grumpy Old Men is a great movie.

Medeia — It is a hard choice.

Nicola — Thank you!

Truedessa — Thank you! Machu Picchu is at the top of my list of places to see, too.

Murees — Thanks! It's too bad you didn't get to see the LOTR sites. I'd love to see them.

Karen — The Princess Bride is a favorite of mine, too. :)

Unknown said...

Haven't watched a few of those everlasting movies! Time I changed that.

Also, Alex, could you add the Name/URL option for commenting on your blog? Easier for poor folks like me who no longer have an easy connect to blogger or WP.

Damyanti

Roland Clarke said...

I think dreaming of a movie from your novel, Lori, is totally acceptable. Although I've yet to read the book, I know that there are the right left-handed actresses out there. What about Zoe Saldana? She's a lefty, proud of it, and I suspect she'd be a great sword-fighter with the right coaching.

And there are others, some action actresses - see this list, but double-check: http://www.imdb.com/list/ls057930830/

As for my current WIP, I've already cast Noomi Rapace as my detective.

Dean K Miller said...

Definitely Saturday Night Fever has stood the test of time . . . Well maybe it keeps failing the test, but still . . . who didn't love that movie?

Cool books and line of movies.

diedre Knight said...

I thought I'd enjoy the Night Manager - now I'm sure of it! Cheers to all the new releases :-) I could watch 'Fried Green Tomatoes' a hundred more times, as well as all the movies you mentioned.

L.G. Keltner said...

New Zealand would be a wonderful place to visit.

Your list of films is spot on. I love all of them, and they really have stood the test of time.

Dixie@dcrelief said...

"New Zealand ... it would be cool to see the locations where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed."

I agree, Alex!

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I had all the actors and actresses picked our for my books before I even started writing them. LOL

Now I want to watch Close Encounters again.

Sandra Cox said...

I can remember the first time I saw Jaws. Totally freaked me out:)
It's a classic.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I'm sure all writers have the movie dream. For my thriller Dead Wrong, I'd choose Sandra Bullock for my lead and maybe John Goodman to play my bad guy, Sammy.

Elizabeth said...

I don't have my book to that stage yet, but I think if I extended the short story I wrote that it could make an interesting movie. I had not heard of The Night Manager, but now I want to see it. Tom and Hugh are very talented and the two of them together sounds intriguing.

New Zealand is definitely on my list and I would love to visit Hobbiton and other Lord of the Rings locations :)

Jemi Fraser said...

I"m with you on visiting New Zealand! I'd love to get to Tokyo and a photo safari in Africa as well. And, and, and! So many great places :)

klahanie said...

Hi Alex,

What an interesting guest post by Lori. I'd have to search around for some left-handed actresses.

That question of the month. Michael has indeed been to some cool places and "cool" may well be the operative word. Although, the weather in England has been rather warm lately. New Zealand would be a good place to go. Crikey!

I watched Star Wars and Close Encounters of the Third Kind, when they were both released in 1977. Yep, I was really young! I much preferred Close Encounters, which was revised in 1980.

I would like to go to a certain tropical island. However, I wont Bora Bora you with the details.

I'm outta' here..

Gary

Anonymous said...

Roland — Zoe Saldana is a great actress. And thanks very much for the link! I'll check it out.

L. Diane — Ha, ha, you're way ahead of the game! Why doesn't that surprise me? :)

Patricia — Great choices!

Gary — Thank you!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Karen, I can recite that film line for line.

Damy, I'll check. I think I need to allow anonymous comments for that though.

Sandra, I was afraid to go near the toilet after that.

Gary, I saw both in the theater as well.

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Films that hold the 20 years or more... WIZARD OF OZ, WILLY WONKA, BUCKAROO BANZAI, RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK, (why all caps, not sure), SPEED, THE ABYSS, PLANET OF THE APES, HALLOWEEN, TIME BANDITS, EVIL DEAD 2, TIM BURTON'S BATMAN, ROBOCOP and of course your choices... now this list is more of my crazy list... they might be out there, but I get the same loving feeling every time I watch them.

I thank you,

Jeremy

Annalisa Crawford said...

Congrats to Lori, and everyone else with releases this week.

Jumanji stands the test of time for me.

Sandra Cox said...

Well, I think we're breaking the dating tradition and doing our grocery shopping tonight.......
Have a good one.

Loni Townsend said...

I think one of my favorite movies that I still pull up is Joe Vs the Volcano. Yeah, it's cheesy, but it's so much fun!

I'm not sure if I'd go with a live cast for my writing. They'd need a log of CG to pull it off...

Lidy said...

You can't help but fantasize which actor will play what character from your book. I'd love to have Scarlet Johansson play the character of the scheming seer in my epic fantasy. And I'm torn between 4 actresses to play the antagonist (Katie McGrath, Keira Knightley, Anne Hathaway and Jordana Brewster). But I definitely want the actress, Kandyse McClure, to play the mother in my fire witch fantasy work in progress.
As for movies that still look good, it's Back to the Future, Weird Science, Willow, One Crazy Summer, Independence Day, etc.

Susan Kane said...

Casablanca, The Searchers, Magnificent 7 (Steve McQueen), Sta-lag 17, Longest Day....Mind gone blank.

Where would I like to visit? Yellowstone, Devil's Peak (?), and Canada. And a whole bunch of other places.

Anonymous said...

Annalisa — Thank you! Jumanji is a good one!

Loni — I think makeup experts could pull it off. I mean, look what they did with LOTR.

Lidy — Looks like you've got most of your cast set. I don't know a couple of the actresses. Off to look them up.

Susan — Casablanca! Love that movie.

Helena said...

Sorry I'm so late getting to your blog (and other people's), Alex.

Congrats to Anne on her first book--may it be made into a movie after all! And Alex -- I'm so glad you're giving a thumbs-up to the Night Manager 'cause I loved it. Very impressive series, wasn't it? As for Close Encounters--what a classic that flick is! The scene when Dreyfus is in his truck and gets frozen by the light is so perfectly done I'm still stunned by the artistry of it.

Lux G. said...

Reminds me how behind I am on my own reading list. :P
I wish that all these great books be turned into movie and given justice soon.

mshatch said...

I totally agree with all your picks on movies that can stand the test of time. My son and I always talk about The Thing and how it's just as good now as it was when we first saw it. Which is why we've seen it like a a million times...

:)

Julie Dao said...

What a great dream to have! Wouldn't it be amazing to see the world you came up with inside your head... on a gigantic movie screen?! And I definitely agree that Jaws and Jurassic Park stand the test of time. Hopefully those movies will never be remade (although they will likely be expanded upon...)

Gossip_Grl said...

Love all the movies you posted about!!! I know they're now remaking a lot of movies and I always prefer the original over the remake. Not sure why. I hope they never remake these. And
OMG you mention Joe Manganiello Now that is some eye candy for me!!! :) I'm gonna need a vitamin to tame down these menopausal hotflashes. j/k Now I know it doesn't count in your question about book and movie actor I once had a crazy dream about the Marlboro Man and I swear it was Joe Manganiello in the starring role of the Marlboro Man.

Melissa said...

I've often thought my debut would make a good movie. I can dream... ;)

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

My stories come alive inside my mind as if I was watching the films. I would love to have them made into movies. My next dream. Nice to see Lori here. Her book is being showcased everywhere and that is awesome. We watched Encounters last month. The actors were so young. Excellent movie.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Raiders and Evil Dead 2! Good choices, Jeremy.

Sandra, that doesn't count as a date? Bummer.

Lidy, been years since I saw One Crazy Summer.

Helena, I'm just glad you still stop by! Night Manager was awesome. And so many great moments in Close Encounters.

Marcy, that makes you uber cool.

Joylene, that's how my stories take shape.

Sandra Cox said...

I think the original star wars series will hold. I loved the last movie. Not the prequel series. What do you think?

Deanie Humphrys-Dunne said...

Congratulations, Lori that's a big milestone. :) Keep dreaming and reaching for the stars.

Anonymous said...

Helena — Thank you!

Lux G. — That would be great, wouldn't it!

Julie — I would love it!

Gossip Girl — Ha, ha, that cracked me up. Maybe it was him. :)

Melissa — It would make a great movie!

Joylene — Thank you! My stories do the same thing in my head.

Deanie — Thank you! I will.

Lynda Dietz said...

I hadn't heard of "Night Manager," but now I'm intrigued. And hooray for Brandon and Bryan! I need to get their book because I just can't imagine it wouldn't be terrific. As far as the movies, I remember seeing "Close Encounters" in the theater and being amazed . . . and now I want to watch it again, after reading your thoughts.

Stephen Tremp said...

Can't argue with this cast of originals. Kids love the first Jaws and they are about old enough to watch one of my favorite movies John Carpenter's The Thing. And we have all Jurassic movies and the kids still watch them no matter how many times they've seen them.

Haven't seen Alien in years so I know what I'm watching this weekend. I'm thinking the brief spoof on Spaceballs "Hello, my baby Hello, my honey Hello, my ragtime gal ... "

Jemima Pett said...

I'm very bad at picking a cast for my books because I'm an ignoramus on contemporary stars. So to move on.... Casablanca. Or Those Magnificent Men in their Flying Machines. All the rest of my favourite films are starting to give me that, no, not again feeling.
Good luck with getting to New Zealand :)
Jemima Pett

Unknown said...

Where would I go? Everywhere. But for now Iceland. The Northern lights are calling to me. And I'd be happy to co-host any of those months.

Toi Thomas said...

I somehow missed the question of the month this time around. For the longest time, I wanted to visit Hong Kong, but not anymore. Since I've never left the country, I'd be excited to go anywhere with a relatively free society.

Night Manager sounds pretty interesting.

I think a lot of movies have solid stories that stand the test of time, but special effects will always be a bit tricky. For instance, any movie using muppets as actual characters will always have a certain look (which isn't necessarily a bad thing).

Anonymous said...

Hi Lori! Congratulations! You must be beside yourself!! Best of luck!!!

Night Manager is amazing! I'm still watching it and I love it. Hugh Laurie is just great. I love seeing him play this part. He's the reason I gave it a try and I'm glad I did.

Oooh, so the movie that came to mind has nothing to do with special effects so it doesn't count but I'm going to mention just because it's one of my favorites (you may remember it from one of my posts) The Breakfast Club. No special effects but I think the story stands the test of time for sure.

Big congrats to all the new releases - especially my mentor Bryan!

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

Congratulations on all the new releases and to Lori for her book. I have two books I would love to see produced as movies, Daddy's Christmas Angel with the young Meg Ryan as the star and Jungle Jeopardy, my Indiana Jones type story. I don't see enough movies to know what current stars I would like!

Sherry Ellis said...

Yes, Australia has some creepy critter. New Zealand would be a better choice so you wouldn't have to deal with them. ;)

I think it would be a great thing for an author to have his or her book turned into a movie. I hope that happens for someone in the blogger community.

Sandra Cox said...

I trust you're having a great weekend, Alex.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Sandra, the prequel trilogy was horrible.

Lynda, you should!

Stephen, now that's a great double feature!

Thanks, Melanie!

Toi, The Dark Crystal still looks rather cool, even if it's a dark and uneven film.

Elsie, wasn't it a great series? And they don't make teen movies like they did in the 90's. I still think Better Off Dead is awesome.

Sandra, mowing the lawn tonight. Ye-ha.

Susan Kane said...

I think of Ghost Busters, with Bill Murray and the other brilliant actors. every single one of them.

The new all women Ghost Busters? Will have to wait on that one.

The Happy Whisk said...

Much success to your friend in getting the book turned into a book. My fingers are crossed. I've never been to NZ but would LOOOOVE to go.

PS: Thanks for your comments. No plans for me to replace the 80 percent. But we are/have upgraded a wee bit of the 20 percent remaing. Though that is slowly reaching 90/10 rather than 80/20.

Anyway, Happy Weekend :)

Unknown said...

Your post's filled with cool stuff this week!

Lori - I have to admit female costumes throughout the years have bugged me ever since I realized all the men on Star Trek were completely covered, but Uhura and Nurse Chapel wore micro-miniskirts and pantyhose! Not a lot has changed since then, as you noticed with Xena and the other heroines.

I've heard Night Manager is great. Hugh Laurie is almost as creepy as Jack Nicholson can be!

I hope you get to go to NZ some day. :)

Congrats to Bryan & Brandon, Libby, and CarrieAnne on their releases!

You listed my 3 all-time favorite movies! Jaws, The Thing, and Aliens! Brilliant classics that will never get old.

Fundy Blue said...

Hi, Alex! If you still need a co-host for July 6th, I can help! But in August I'm in Nova Scotia, and in September I'm in British Columbia, if all goes according to plans. This was a fun post! Congrats to authors Lori, Bryan and Brandon, Libby, and CarrieAnne! Movies standing the test of time? What about the first "Star Wars?" And definitely "Gone with the Wind! Antarctica is where I want to go most of all. I'm going to look for "The Night Manager" which I haven't seen. Movie version of my book??? I have no clue! Have a great weekend, my friend!

Anonymous said...

Jemima — That's another vote for Casablanca!

Elsie — Thank you!

Mary — Thank you! I like Meg Ryan movies, and Jungle Jeopardy sounds exciting. Anything similar to Indiana Jones has to be good.

Lexa — That's always been a pet peeve of mine.

Fundy Blue — Thank you!

Leovi said...

No doubt Jaws is a film destined to remain forever among the best. For it does not pass the time.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Susan, I'm going to pass on that one...

Ivy, that is impressive.

Lexa, that makes you uber-cool! And Laurie was very evil and devilish.

Fundy, maybe in October?

Mason T. Matchak said...

For the book that I'm working on, I think it would have to be animated one way or another, as the vast majority of the characters are not human so the CGI budget would be through the roof. >_< I have no idea who would play who, though; I've never had any luck with coming up with actors who would suit my characters. Oi.

kimlajevardi.com said...

Got my brain spinning about who I'd want to bring the characters in my book to life. I have two physically different male POV characters in my first book. And then the female POV. Hmm...

I'd really have to see the auditions. Can you imagine? That will be a problem I will willingly face if it ever comes to that. :)

Gail said...

You do a lot of work and a lot nice things for many people.

Thank you, Alex.

Anonymous said...

Mason — Animation, now that would be interesting, having to choose actors by voice rather than looks.

Kim — Me, too. :)

Deniz Bevan said...

Ooh, what about E. T.?

I like Jaws, but I'm always bothered by the scene with the baby by the water. If they know a shark is out there, why would they leave their kid so locse to the water, unsupervised? That said, last winter I saw a baby in a stroller who'd been left outside the community hall while the parents walked around the craft market inside. In winter! Alone! In his stroller! The mind boggles.

Congratulations, Lori!

Heather M. Gardner said...

I'm glad you reviewed The Night Manger. I had no idea what that was about and I think I'd like to see it.

I swear, if I turn on the TV and Jaws or Jurassic Park is on, I'm STUCK!
:)

I think Alien is still good because it was so suspenseful.

Great post!
Heather

Blue Grumpster said...

ID2 suck a ton but The Thing is still one of the best.