Monday, June 27, 2016

ID Resurgence Review, Paperback Writer, July Movie Preview, IWSG Anthology Contest Update, and Ninja News

Independence Day: Resurgence Movie Review

Director Roland Emmerich says he hates superhero movies because he finds them silly.
Dude, have you watched any of your own films lately?
I left my brain at the door and my intelligence was still insulted by this film.
Sure they went bigger, and it was fun if you could sit through the nonsense. Unfortunately, the stupid was too much for me.
This film failed on every science level and then some. Plausibility just went right out the window and there were tons of coincidences. This film demeans all other science fiction movies.
And what is it with Emmerich and stuff falling on planes? He must be a big fan of buildings attacking flying aircraft.
It was good to see Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Judd Hirsch, and the others return. They did their best with what they had.
This film wasn’t supposed to be more than a dumb popcorn movie. Sometimes, I’m all right with that. But it just blew it too often for me. And it wasn’t very memorable.
If you remove your entire head before entering the theater, you might enjoy it. You have been warned…

How the Beatles Made Me a Paperback Writer

It was twenty(one) years ago today
The Beatles’ Anthology began to play.
My tech writer job was out of style,
But they were guaranteed to make me smile.
So may I introduce to you
The group I’ve loved for all these years,
Gwen, Jenna, Ysabel, and Kay!

I was a casual Beatles fan until “Free as a Bird” was released as part of the TV Anthology series in 1995. The song stuck in my head and helped me get through my dreary work day.

I quickly devoured every Beatles song and book I could find. One book in particular (A Day in the Life: The Music and Artistry of the Beatles, by Mark Hertsgaard) struck me with the phrase “four-fold synergy” when describing how the Beatles worked together. I wanted to create another intimate group, but one of all women. They wouldn’t be musicians, but magicians. Their magic would be linked to the number four--but not the four elements. How about the seasons?

That was how I created the Season Avatars: Gwen, a healer/touch telepath (Spring); Jenna, plant magic (Summer); Ysabel, animal magic (Fall); and Kay, weather magic (Winter). Each Avatar is inspired by one of the Beatles. I wrote a 170,000 word novel about the Avatars and submitted it to publishers, but even after reducing the word count I received nothing but rejections. I put the series away until 2014, after I started self-publishing. After discarding the first book but keeping the characters, I eventually published three new books about them: Seasons’ Beginnings, Scattered Seasons, and Chaos Season. There will be two more books in the series, which should be complete next year. Hopefully, the love it gets will be equal to the love I put in it.

Visit Sandra at her blog.
Pick up her latest release, Chaos Season, at Amazon, iTunes, and Barnes and Noble


Ninja News

This Wednesday, the voting opens to decide the genre of this year’s Insecure Writer’s Support Group Anthology Contest! Be watching for the IWSG Newsletter on Wednesday. Voting will be open through July 9.

The MST3K Reunion show is Tuesday, July 28! You don’t want to miss this monumental event. (And if you do have to miss it, there will be an encore show on July 12.)

New release:
Plop Pea Pop by Pat Hatt
Find it on Amazon

Releases Tuesday, July 28:
Self-Help 101 or: How to Survive a Bombardment With Minimal Injury by L. G Keltner
Fine it on Amazon, Amazon UK, Smashwords, Barnes and Noble, and iBooks



Hart Johnson is participating in an awareness campaign this month – twenty-two pushups a day for the twenty-two veterans who commit suicide every day. She nominated me to join the group, spreading awareness online while doing the pushups. Since I am also supposed to nominate someone, I’m choosing Chemist Ken. (Who looks like he could manage the pushups – I don’t want to kill anyone.)

July Movie Preview

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

1 –

The BFG
A girl named Sophie encounters the Big Friendly Giant who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kindhearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because, unlike them, he refuses to eat children.
Director: Steven Spielberg
Stars: Rebecca Hall, Mark Rylance, Bill Hader, Jemaine Clement
Is it just me, or do you see something other than the word friendly in BFG…?

The Legend of Tarzan
Tarzan, having acclimated to life in London, is called back to his former home in the jungle to investigate the activities at a mining encampment.
Director: David Yates
Stars: Margot Robbie, Alexander Skarsgård, Ella Purnell, Samuel L. Jackson
Four out of five mountain gorillas recommend this movie.





8 –

The Secret Life of Pets
Taking place in a Manhattan apartment building, Max's life as a favorite pet is turned upside down, when his owner brings home a sloppy mongrel named Duke. They have to put their quarrels behind when they find out that an adorable white bunny named Snowball is building an army of lost pets determined to take revenge
Directors: Chris Renaud | Yarrow Cheney
Stars: Jenny Slate, Kevin Hart, Ellie Kemper, Albert Brooks
It’s no secret – they raid the fridge, drink your beer, and watch NetFlix all day long.



15 –

Ghostbusters
30 years after Ghostbusters took the world by storm, the beloved franchise makes its long-awaited return. Director Paul Feig brings his fresh take to the supernatural comedy, joined by some of the funniest actors working today.
Director: Paul Feig
Stars: Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones
Another unnecessary remake, the trailer looks awful, McCarthy is in it – need I say more?



22 –

Star Trek Beyond
The USS Enterprise crew explores the furthest reaches of uncharted space, where they encounter a mysterious new enemy who puts them and everything the Federation stands for to the test.
Director: Justin Lin
Stars: Idris Elba, Zoe Saldana, Chris Pine, Sofia Boutella
This big budget science fiction film will make up for ID: Resurgence!

Ice Age: Collision Course
Scrat's epic pursuit of his elusive acorn catapults him outside of Earth, where he accidentally sets off a series of cosmic events that transform and threaten the planet. To save themselves from peril, Manny, Sid, Diego, and the rest of the herd leave their home and embark on a quest...
Directors: Mike Thurmeier | Galen T. Chu
Stars: Adam Devine, Jennifer Lopez, Melissa Rauch, Simon Pegg
Since the last one wasn’t very good, I’d say the whole series is on a collision course…



29 –

Jason Bourne
Jason Bourne, now remembering who he truly is, tries to uncover hidden truths about his past.
Director: Paul Greengrass
Stars: Alicia Vikander, Matt Damon, Julia Stiles, Tommy Lee Jones
Bourne returns to kick ass again, and there was much rejoicing…




Anyone else throw money at ID Resurgence? What made you a paperback writer? Going to MST3K Reunion Show? Ready to vote for the IWSG Anthology Contest? And what movies catch your eye for July?

Since next Monday is the Fourth of July in the States, I will be completely offline all day! Catch you Wednesday for IWSG post day.

142 comments:

Huntress said...

Yikes. You hardly ever give a bad review to a blockbuster movie. Independence must be truly awful.

Truedessa said...

I went to see Independence Day this weekend and I wasn't impressed. I am not sure what I was expecting, but not what I received. There were moments I just shook my head and thought "really". The new characters had little build up and they just didn't seem convincing to me. I agree, I was glad to see some members of the original cast. I would give it maybe, 3 stars. You might want to to wait for Red Box or Pay for View. Agree with Alex, you have been warned.

I did see previews for the new Bourne movie and that does look good. I will definitely be watching.

Have a wonderful week Alex!

Anonymous said...

I never thought Independence Day needed another movie. Some movies are flawless and don't need any additions.

I love The Beatles.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Thanks for hosting me, Alex. Hopefully someday we'll figure out what caused the e-mail issues. I'll check back in throughout the day as time permits in case anyone has questions about my post.

My son likes Dahl's stories, so I might take him to see BFG. I'd like him to read the book first, though. Guess we should get started!

Roland Clarke said...

I'm a sucker for another Tarzan movie, although I'm looking forward more to another Star Trek.

Have to get my mind in gear for the IWSG voting, but focus is elsewhere = emigrating.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

I didn't enjoy the first Independence Day (aside from the great actors) and was wondering if this one were any better. That sounds like a no!

Lots of good stuff for the kids coming up in the theater, it looks like.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

I'm glad to see the new movie offerings, so that I can take the grandkids. Sometimes there's nothing out there. I'm disappointed to see that Independence Day is a flop. Happy July 4th in advance. I'll be celebrating my son's birthday, as usual. :)

Pat Hatt said...

Glad I didn't throw any money at ID2, sounds pathetic. Hopefully Emmerich leaves Stargate the heck alone. Ugg to the Ghostbusters reboot, hopefully it crashes and burns so we don't get any more. Bourne will hopefully be great. BFG can be taken many a way lol thanks for the shout too.

Bish Denham said...

Hubby wants to see ID2, I suppose I should tell him it's a bust. I'd rather see Finding Dory! But Jason Bourne might be okay too. I wouldn't be surprised of Dahl didn't mean for BFG to have layered meanings... his mind was warped in a wonderful way. :)

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

So glad we didn't go see Resurgence!

Definitely looking forward to The Secret Life of Pets. I remember seeing the trailer for that ages ago and loving it!

Enjoy your day off, Alex!

Dean K Miller said...

Nice reviews on the movie. Glad to hear Star Trek is still holding its own.
Congrats to Sandra (and the others) on the book releases. Looking to vote on the IWSG anthology theme!

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

I wasn't planning on seeing the new Independence Day. I am looking forward to the next Star Trek. Looking forward to the next anthology.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Huntress, my wife liked it more than I did, but I just couldn't get past the stupid.

Truedessa, I spent the whole movie saying 'Really?'

Sandra, you're welcome!

Elizabeth, you definitely want to avoid it then.

Teresa, does he think the fireworks are all for him?

Pat, you're welcome.

Bish, very true.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I'm putting The BFG on my list for sure. It looks charming...and who wouldn't love a giant who refuses to eat children?

Chrys Fey said...

I am interested in the new Independence Day movie. I never thought there would be a sequel, though.

On Wednesday, I'll be doing a blog post with IWSG announcements to further spread the word about voting. :)

Sandra Cox said...

LOL. I enjoyed Independence Day. I'm not a big sci-fi buff, I just want mindless enjoyment:)

cleemckenzie said...

All my family wants to see BFG, even me. Must be all the promo I see online, but it does sound like a fun family movie.

I love Plop Pea Pop by Pat Hatt and I haven't read it! It just sounds like fun.

Congrats to Sandra on her book.

Tamara Narayan said...

I went to see Finding Dory this past weekend, so no complaints. It was predictably adorable and the family loved it. We'll probably see The Secret Life of Pets and Ghostbusters (I bought the original for my kids recently), but maybe wait for Redbox. Matinee tickets are approaching $8 a person where I live--yikes!

I am ready to vote for the next IWSG Anthology genre. Will writers have a bit more time to compose their masterpieces this go around? Then again, I did start late last time. That'll learn me.

Mason Canyon said...

I was afraid Independence Day wasn't going to be very good. Another Jason Bourne might be ok. Movie going doesn't look to promising right now.

Dianne K. Salerni said...

Disappointed to hear about ID: Resurgence.

On the other hand, now I have no excuse to break my 21 Day Fix meal program by eating at the Dine-In Theater.

Yay?

Charles Gramlich said...

Sorry to hear that ID wasn't better. I liked the first one pretty well. We haven't been to the actual movies since Gravity. But we do end up getting most of the popular SF/fantasy items in eventually.

Toi Thomas said...

I figured IDR would be rental. Even if I think it's bad, I have to see it because I saw the first one.
It's cool inspiring the Beatles can be.

DL Kennedy said...

That review is too funny... had me rolling. Won't be watching that anytime soon.

M.J. Fifield said...

Too bad about ID: Resurgence. I didn't expect it to be a great film, but maybe at least a decent summer popcorn movie. Oh well.

I'm very much looking forward to the new Star Trek and Jason Borne movies, though.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

We'll get the word out, Chrys.

Sandra, I wanted to like it. My wife thought it was all right.

Tamara, sorry, it will be the same two months.

Dianne, that's a yeah all right!

DL, wise choice.

Jo said...

The Ice Age movies I have seen I have enjoyed. I love Star Trek but like the oldies with the original cast although I enjoyed Patrick Stewart as Jean Luc Picard. For me, without Mr. Spock it isn't the same.

I can't believe they are still plugging Jason Bourne. The original movies seem to be on TV every week. And now a new film. Not for me I don't think. What I really want to see is the revival of Almost Human, that was a great series.

Sandee said...

We don't go to movies anymore. I know what not to see here. See it's good that I stay home.

I do love Jason Bourne. Love kick ass anything.

Have a fabulous day. ☺

Robin said...

Well, guess I don't need to watch the Independence Day reboot. The Ghostbusters reboot looks awful. I'm sure you've heard about the Star Trek star who died at his home (pinned by his own car no less at his front gate). I can't think of his name (terrible with names). So sad. He was so young. I really like the Star Trek franchise reboot.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Haha I quite like taking my head along inside the theatre, so no ID resurgence for me. Thanks much for the warning.

Like the premise of Chaos Season too - what a neat idea!

Have a great week and 4th of July!

Mark said...

I was worried the new Independence Day would be about what you described it as. But I loved Sandra's blurb! As a tech writer and fiction author too, I totally get where she's coming from:)

Anonymous said...

Congrats to Sandra! The Seasons series sounds interesting. And congrats to the new releases! I'd like to see Star Trek. My kids will probably want to see the Pets and maybe Ice Age, though I think that will likely be Netflix. Looking forward to the next anthology! Have a great week!

H. R. Sinclair said...

To bad about Independence Day, but it looked suspect from the beginning.

Shady Del Knight said...

Hi, Alex!

Thanks for the heads-up about I-Day: Resurgence. I have been watching the trailer and waiting to hear from somebody who has been it. I enjoy mindless fun, probably more than most people, but not when it insults my intelligence and wastes my time and money. With a little input from a scientific consultant, movies in this genre can achieve a clever, semi-plausible plot. It's a shame the producers of I-D:R didn't bother to do that.

Have a great week, Alex!

Arlee Bird said...

I agree about the super hero films, but I've always been a sucker for Emmerich's over-the-top films. I won't be seeing the last alien flick in the theater but I'll likely watch it on DVD if I remember it when it comes out. And in all likelihood I'll forget it within days of watching it.

Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Resurgence could have been better.

I can't wait for Pets and Star Trek. I loved the first 3 Ice Age movies, but #4 fell flat. I'll wait for reviews on that one.

Carrie-Anne said...

I might go to the local indie theatres this July, if any of their films catch my interest. I'll be sick if either of them hosts a certain dangerous, pseudoscientific film which has been playing around the U.S. and featuring a Q&A with a discredited former doctor. There's a campaign to bring this trash to my city.

Botanist said...

There's not a lot out there to tempt me to the movies. Ice Age has just been getting silly, and although I enjoyed the first movies a rehash of Ghostbusters or ID? *yawn* Looks like it's back to my books :)

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Thanks, Dean, cleem, Toinette, Nilanjana, Mark, and Lori!

D.G. Hudson said...

Too bad about Independence Day not panning out, I couldn't make sense of the previews. I'll take your word on it. Maybe I'd like the Secret life of Pets better. There seem to always be another 'sequel' to any half decent movie and some which aren't.

We will have our patriotic day in Canada on July 1st, so have fun and enjoy your USA stat holiday on the fourth!! Hope it's a quiet peaceful one in both countries. . .

Stephanie Faris said...

That's hilarious--most of the year, "Paperback Writer" is my ringtone. I change it to the Big Brother theme song in July-September, then to Halloween music and Christmas music. But there isn't good music for January through June, so it's The Beatles during those months!

msmariah said...

Hi Alex! I had hoped Independence Day 2 was a better film. It's looks like Will Smith had the right idea about staying from this one. It's sad b/c the original 1996 film was such a cult classic. So why after 20 years, do they destroy this franchise? It's just so sad.

I'm not so sure about Tarzan. It looks like a bunch of rehashed super hero films. It's almost like Hollywood is no longer making films for the domestic US. They're making films for the overseas market--who love these superhero films.

I am hoping Ghostbusters is better than the trailer. I am so sick of remakes, but I do feel like this remake got more flack than other remakes b/c of the female cast. I wish Hollywood would make more films with female leads, but they really don't have to remake classic features to do it.

Unknown said...

Love your review and snarky comments! I wasn't planning on watching Independence Day 2 in the theaters, and now I'm wondering if it's even worth Netflix time . . .

Love that comments on Bourne and Star Trek!
Our big summer movie this year is going to be Star Trek - hoping it lives up to the hype my family members and friends are giving it. :)

Happy Independence Day (4th of July)!

Unknown said...

CANNOT wait for the next Bourne movie. Love that series.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Oops - I was in the family account when I commented. Really, I don't have my hubs or kids commenting. I'm just switching between one task and another . . .

Anonymous said...

I was considering seeing ID Resurgence, but didn't feel like the hassle of going over to Canada. When it comes out on video, I'll rent it on Amazon.

Andrew Leon said...

Considering how much more, I'll say, tolerant you are for stupid in movies than I am, I will definitely skip the new Independence Day. Not that I planned to see it in the first place considering that I thought the first one was a pile of... nonsense.

Liza said...

Wouldn't have wanted to see a remake of ID anyway, but thank you for bolstering my thought process!

A Beer for the Shower said...

Like you, I'm very willing to leave my brain at the door for a popcorn movie. So if you call this stupid, then I'll believe it's stupid. Not that I was in any hurry to see it, but thanks for the warning.

Oh, and I laughed out loud at the BFG thing... glad to hear I'm not the only twisted person that had to think twice about that acronym. "Man, that is a BFG."

Karen Lange said...

"...the stupid was too much for me." Love that quote! Might have to borrow that one. :) Nice to see Sandra here. Thanks for sharing all the news!

SpacerGuy said...

Sometimes dumb popcorn blockbusters is all it takes to get a little notice - that and a little creativity but seriously I think theres some great movies here. Star Trek Beyond will likely soar because skies the limit, Tarzan is recommended by the gorillas and drinking beer and watching Netflix sounds far out to me!

J E Oneil said...

Looking back at the original Independence Day, it's pretty silly itself. But it's still fun. But you can't always replicate that, despite how much Hollywood keeps trying to.

I think Ghostbusters looks pretty good. And I love Melissa McCarthy--what's wrong with her?

Ann Carbine Best said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Ann Carbine Best said...

Sandra's experience...intriguing for anyone who loves the Beatles as my daughter and I do. And I enjoy your take on movies. I trust your judgment! I'd like to see this Bourne movie. I've enjoyed the others very much.

Ann Carbine Best said...

And enjoy your 4th of July.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jo, fortunately I'm a big fan of the Bourne series.

Robin, I saw that the day it happened. Very tragic.

Shady, he gleefully didn't bother!

Lee, you might forget it sooner.

DG, yes - may they both be peaceful.

Ms Mariah, not when there are so many stories to choose from. And you might be right that they are aiming for foreign markets these days.

Tyrean, you know you'll just have to see how bad it is on NetFlix. And funny you have two accounts.

Andrew, this is a pile a hundred times bigger.

Brandon and Bryan, thank you! Yes, that's exactly what I see.

Karen, feel free!

JE, she's just not funny to me.

Ann, I think that one will be good!

Elephant's Child said...

A new ISWG anthology? I am excited already. Loved the first.

DMS said...

I really enjoyed hearing about Sandra's inspiration for writing (I love the Beatles). Wishing her all the best- her series sounds fascinating.

Sorry to hear Independence Day wasn't better- but now I can spend my money on some of the other movies I want to see this month like The BFG and The Secret Life of Pets. :)

Congrats to Pat and LG.
Thanks for sharing!
~Jess

Jenni said...

I like how Sandra came up with her four seasons ideas for her characters. Of the movies you listed, I'd like to see BFG (of course) and possible the Bourne movie.
Thanks for the heads up on Independence Day!

Joanne said...

based on previews I had nixed ID in my brain and now you've clinched that thought. Sorry you had to sacrifice yourself. However, new Star Trek looks awesome (RIP Anton) as does Jason Bourne. Your snark comments are hilarious. I wonder if I'm actually a pet? I drink beer and watch Netflix!! (well, not all day).
Love the blurb from the Beatles influenced author - very, very cool.
Have a very safe and fun Fourth, Alex!

stephen Hayes said...

I was only going to see ID Resurgence if it got decent reviews but they've all been terrible so I'll save my money and scoff at it when it comes to television.

Natalie Aguirre said...

Too bad about Independence Day. I just saw part of the original and it's pretty good. None of the new releases sound that good to me. Hopefully there will be others I want to see.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

The only film I am looking forward to in those listed is the new Bourne. The Star Trek film looks too manic. And aren't they tired of destroying the Enterprise by now? How about "Bodice Ripper" for the anthology genre? Just kidding! I really meant "Zombie Runs For President." Oh, we already have that don't we? :-)

mshatch said...

My brother really wants to see ID but now that you've said it pretty much sucks, I'm not sure I wanna go...:( Dammit. I was hoping it would be fun, without too much stupid (like 2012 imo). And yeah, the first time I heard of BFG, I thought the same thing. As for Ghostbusters, without the originals, forget it, plus Melissa McCarthy? No thanks. I'm looking forward to Star Trek, tho I;ve heard the Enterprise gets destroyed...again.

"Bourne returns to kick ass again, and there was much rejoicing…"

Ha!

Katherines Corner said...

we read a couple of reviews for independence day part deux. Hubby and I decided it'll be worth renting but that's it. Now with your stamp of pass we know it will definitely be a rental. We are looking forward to the new Star Trek movie though. O very sad what happened to the actor who play checkov.
Lots of hugs and smiles coming your way my friend xo

Birgit said...

Since I think the first Independence Day was quite silly, this second one looks downright stupid and, from what I have read, I am right. I think I'll wait for it to appear on tv. I like Melissa McCarthy and I do want to see the new Ghostbusters but it doesn't look good. It actually looks likes its trying too hard. I do want to see Jason Bourne and the pets movie

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Congratulations to Pat and L. G. on the new books.
Haven't seen any of the movies, as usual.
A new anthology sounds great.

Rhonda Albom said...

Have to admit, you totally made me laugh with "Dude, have you watched any of your own films lately?" It is not one I will be seeing, although I look forward to the new Ghostbusters. Generally not a fan of remakes, I am heading to this one anyway. (Unless you get there first and pan it).

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Stephanie, Beatles music is great any time of the year!

Thanks go out to Karen, Ann, DMS, Jenni, and Joanne.

Forgot to mention earlier I was thinking of having a "girls night out" with some friends to support the Ghostbusters remake, but now I'm not sure if it's worth seeing.

L.G. Keltner said...

Thanks for mentioning my book! Have a great 4th of July!

Livia Peterson said...

I disliked ID: Resurgence and cannot wait to see all the films you listed.

Liz A. said...

I never saw the original ID. There's just something about hostile aliens that puts me off. This is an old complaint. I've always been on the friendly alien side--ever since my first "published" story in the 3rd grade. (It contained friendly aliens and a bit of a time dilation.)

Tammy Theriault said...

Tarzan... Coworker is raving to see it! I think it has a little something to do with... Ha

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

They need to stop making remakes. Ghostbusters was a fun movie. There was no reason to redo it.
Be well, Alex.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

lol, I went and saw ID yesterday and I just laughed. It was so ham-fisted in everything it did, so ridiculous, that I--oddly enough--enjoyed it. Usually i pick this kinda film apart, but it just had too much to pick on so I switched off the brain and had a giggle (and not where the film makers wanted me to laugh). Grunt, scratch, look at the pretty explosions!

Helena said...

I am so seeing Star Trek Beyond. And I figure I'll enjoy the Jason Bourne flick.

Wow, it sounds like you got why the new Independence movie is hurting at the box office. The silly people in Hollywood are theorizing it's because Will Smith isn't in this sequel! You'd think they'd figure out that audiences (which include very smart people like you, Alex) don't like having their brains insulted.

J.H. Moncrieff said...

Ugh. I really wish Hollywood would stop with the unnecessary, terrible remakes and sequels.

Enjoy the fourth, Alex!

Suzanne Furness said...

I went to see Independence Day Resurgence at the weekend - sadly not a patch on the original. Good luck with the push-ups, don't think I could do it.

The Cynical Sailor said...

That's a shame about Independence Day. The first one was a fun movie and I had hopes for this one. I'm looking forward to the new Star Trek movie. I rarely go to the movies, but I might make an exception for this one. I'll wait to see your review to see if it would be worth it :-) Cheers - Ellen

Mary Aalgaard said...

A new Jason Bourne, I'll watch that. An all female cast of Ghostbusters...interesting. Hey, Hollywood, it's okay to make new films!

Sandra Cox said...

Congrats to L.G., Pat and Sandra.

Hi, Alex:)

Annalisa Crawford said...

Looking forward to Star Trek, and the trailers for The Secret Lives of Pets look quite funny.

Congrats to all the new books and their writers this week :-)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Haven't seen Independence yet. I was thinking of going, but your review makes me think I should just wait for it on television. Also, I am with you on seeing another word in place of "Friendly" for the "F" in BFG. I just think times have changed too much from when it was released as a book.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Elephant's Child, that's good to hear!

Joanne, that made me chuckle!

Stephen, you and your wife can do your own version of RiffTrax.

Roland, which one is the zombie?

Marcy, if you thought 2012 was stupid, this one is worse.

Katherine, it is sad.

Rhonda, I promise you will beat me.

Sandra, check reviews first!

LG, you're welcome.

Liz, you must like ET then.

Lynda, I really tried to disengage my brain!

Helena, no we don't.

Ellen, there will be a review!

Hey, Sandra!

Michael, it was a different time...

Murees Dupè said...

My family are looking forward to ID: Resurgence. Congrats to all the authors with new releases. My brother is quite excited for the new Star Trek. Have a great week, Alex. Thanks for the movie reviews.

Karen Peterson said...

I kind of want to see Resurgence just to make fun of it. We'll see if I get around to it...

Bossy Betty said...

Stopping by to say hi, Alex!

kaykuala said...

Often been said remakes tend to be compared to the original. This obviously put pressure on those who had seen both. Naturally one thinks copy-cats are just cashing in. Which means to say one is more critical in assessing a remake. Knowing this the makers of remakes would try to make a better showing but they tried too hard and failed.

Hank

Lynda Dietz said...

Well . . . I was hoping Independence Day would be good, but now I'm content to skip it. I never really like most sequels anyway, but for you to give it such a withering review cements it for me. The only movies on the list that truly interest me are Star Trek: Beyond and Jason Bourne. Maybe I'm growing more intolerant as I grow older, but I'm so tired of recycled plots in the form of yet another Ice Age or a "new" Ghostbusters that those don't even tempt me.

I really enjoyed hearing about Sandra's books! Neat twist, going with seasons instead of elements, and her journey to get there was great to hear.

Shannon Lawrence said...

Love the four seasons idea! Blah, Bourne. I really don't like Matt Damon.

nashvillecats2 said...

I was certainly interested in the Beatle's Fan Sandra's account about how she became a writer. Wonderful account.
Also all those rave reviews on the films and books are always a pleasure to read.
Yvonne.

Deniz Bevan said...

Love the idea of Beatles inspired characters!

I'd forgotten they were making the BFG into a film. I hope it's good...

I hadn't known about that harrowing statistic. I'm not sure I can do twenty-two pushups, but I'll be doing them in spirit!

Love the new idea for ISWG Day. I've advance-written my post for this month and next, unfortunately, but will try to answer the questions sometime anyway...

Crystal Collier said...

We debated going to see Independence Day, but then read the reviews. I'm sorry it was such a fail.

Sandra! *waves*

Cathrina Constantine said...

I loved Independence Day and watched it again last week. I'd heard good & bad about Resurgence. I guess I won't waste my money, and wait until it comes to Netflixs.

So, so, looking forward to Jason Bourne!!!!

Have a Great 4th!!!!!!

Nicola said...

I'm not surprised Independence Day was OTT Silly. Geoff Goldbloom was on a TV show in the UK and more or less said that himself :)

Have a Happy 4th July!!

DL Hammons said...

I had plans to see ID Resurgence this past weekend, but skimming over the initial reviews and hearing how bad it was...I passed. I was really looking forward to this, and it disappoints me to no end that they mucked this up. BUMMER to the MAX!

mail4rosey said...

I have heard nothing good about the Independence Day movie. :( I haven't seen it. I probably won't bother.

Chemist Ken said...

My daughter didn't want to see Independence Day, but my son and wife did, so they went to the theater to see it while my daughter and I went to see Dory at the same time. To be honest, I was hoping to see ID instead, but I guess it sounds like Dory was the better choice. I'm sure I'll still catch the movie at the dollar theater eventually.

Sandra Cox said...

I'm hoping we'll be seeing Tarzan this weekend.

Emily R. King said...

Summer time, movie time! As always, thanks for your thoughtful review!

Sherry Ellis said...

Sorry to hear the Independence Day movie was a disappointment. I'll cross that one off my list to see. Secret Life of Pets is on the list, and perhaps the one with the giant.

XmasDolly said...

I voted!!! Secondly, do you think that movie would be any better with Will Smith in it... I mean if he came back? Can't see that movie without him for some reason. Oh well. Thanks for the heads up with that one. I wanted to go see it believe it or not. I liked the first movie. I still have to get to see Dory... Gotta go see that one. Have a great week and HAPPY FOURTH... BE SAFE!

M Pax said...

Guess I'll wait for the dvd then on INdependence 2.

Sgt. Pepper's was one of my first albums. Yup, on vinyl. :)

kimlajevardi.com said...

I didn't throw any money at ID, but I groaned when I saw that they were making another one. If they butchered the science completely, I won't even bother with it when it comes out on TV or Netflix. I'm also not excited for them to reboot Ghostbusters. Hollywood needs to look deeper and not just keep trying to recycle past hits. The movies are getting stale.

Have a great week, Alex!

The Purple Assassin. said...

That's a great review! However the movie didn't stand up to the review!

Have a great day!

:)

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I am so glad to see another Bourne movie. I love the series. We watch the first 3 at least every 6 weeks. Life wouldn't be the same without them. Now we have another one! Yay! I'm staying away from Independence. Thank you for the warning. And lastly... yay everything Beatles!

Yolanda Renée said...

I finally voted for the new IWSG anthology, I chose horror. Don't ask me why! LOL
Love the snark after the movie descriptions. I'm looking forward to your reviews.
See you Wednesday!

Dixie@dcrelief said...

>> ..."Is it just me, or do you see something other than the word friendly in BFG…?"

ALEX!!!

Susan Kane said...

ID was a disaster with a lame hint about needing to go to Glowing Globe's planet to learn how to fight the enemy. Oh no please not.
We went to see "County of Jones" with Matthew Mc. and it was heart-breakingly excellent. And since it is historically accurate, that makes it more so.
Matt Damon and Tommy Lee Jones makes any movie enjoyable.

Happy 4th. Rejoice in their courage way back then.

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...

Totally going to see Jason Bourne. That is about it!
Hope your holiday was fun!!!

Jean

Kristin Smith said...

Awesome! That's a lot of good movies coming out this summer! I'm a huge Matt Damon fan so I'm especially excited about that one! I know my husband and older boys were looking forward to Independence Day Resurgence, but once I tell them about your review, they might not be. Lol. :)

Congrats to Sandra on her latest release! :)

Cherie Reich said...

You're not the only one about the F in BFG. Hehe! I'm looking forward to Star Trek Beyond.

Juneta key said...

Disappointed to hear that about Independence Day. I was looking forward to it. I think now I will wait to see it on digital as a renter.

You made me snicker with BFG and yup I do, ROFL.

I want to see Tarzan one of my all time fave stories. Not sure if will get to see at movies may not see until its on digital.

I hate to hear I may be disappointed with Ghostbuster as well. dang it.


Star Trek Beyond looking forward to it as well.


Juneta @ Writer's Gambit

John Wiswell said...

Here's hoping on Star Trek: Beyond. It looks it could have a lot of good times in it.

Michelle Wallace said...

The Beatles music is timeless.
I even taught a medley of Beatles songs to my senior primary choir one year (11-14 year olds) I jazzed it up, of course, tried to make it funky.
Happy 4th of July to you and yours, Alex!

Blue Grumpster said...

Alex, I went to see ID twice just to make sure the stupidity I thought I'd seen the first time hadn't been imaginary.Damn this movie.

Blue Grumpster said...

Alex, I went to see ID twice just to make sure the stupidity I thought I'd seen the first time hadn't been imaginary.Damn this movie.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Hey, Betty!

Lynda, those two are high on my list.

Deniz, it's all right if you can't.

Cathrina, save your money and wait.

DL, it could have been fun.

Ken, Dory was a much better film.

Marie, I think that's the reason he's not in it - he read the script and said no way.

Kim, there are so many new stories out there...

Purple, thanks!

Yolanda, horror would be fun.

Dixie! Just being honest.

Susan, at this point, they need to leave the planet. And the director needs to go with them...

Cherie, glad you see it as well.

Juneta, that's just what we see. And Tarzan is getting bad reviews, so hope you enjoy it.

Blue, sorry you endured it twice.

Haddock said...

After reading all this (and the comments) I think I will give The Independence Day a miss.

Unknown said...

It's too bad the new Independence Day is bad. I loved the first one.

Sandra's Beatles inspiration was interesting to read about.

Congrats to Pat and LG on their new releases!

None of the soon-to-be-released movies sound good to me. When I was young I read all of Ludlum's Bourne series (+ Trevanian, Levin, Deighton and other thriller writers), but I've hated all the Bourne movies. Maybe I've just changed tastes since I was young...

Jeffrey Scott said...

I really want to watch ID4, but I have heard from others they did not like it. I would have already gone into it feeling cheated with Wil Smith not in it. Now, perhaps I'll wait to see it on DVD.
Looking forward to this next IWSG.

Christine Rains said...

I have no desire to see ID Resurgence. Pets, on the other hand, I won't be able to keep my kid away from that one! I voted in for the IWSG contest. Have a fantastic Fourth of July! :) See you on Wednesday.

T.F. Walsh said...

Tarzan and Ghostbusters are on my to see list:) Can't wait.

Have a wonderful long weekend.

Al Penwasser said...

I haven't heard a single good thing about "Independence Day," so I'm going to give it a pass.
I am going to see Star Trek, though. Although they destroy the GD Enterprise!

Jemi Fraser said...

Can't wait for the new Star Trek - even though seeing Chekov/Anton in his last film will be so sad.

Enjoy your long weekend! We had our fireworks and goodies on Friday - but still having family fun today! :)

dolorah said...

LOL; I have been warned. I'll wait for it to come to Netflix - in about three months, huh? Yep, pets are devious; I have cats that act like puppies. No, not impressed.

What made me a paperback writer? Authors like Anne McCaffrey, Anne Rice, Stephen King, Robert McCammon. Back when paperbacks slipped into a pocket, purse, backpack: you could take them anywhere and not need to plug them in to read. I still love the feel of a paper novel.

Bloggers are almost all YA/NA oriented; so I can see the future of the next IWSG anthology when put to the vote: given the usual dominant concepts of the first one.

Sandra Cox said...

I can't wait to see Star Trek. Lots of good stuff coming out.
Enjoy the long weekend.

Mason T. Matchak said...

Your first lines were hilarious. ^_^ Yeah, I saw Emmerich's comment on superhero movies, and all I could think of was that "Avengers" did an alien invasion a lot better than he did, and with more interesting characters to boot. I didn't plan to see ID:R, but it's good to hear I won't be missing anything.

And I've had more than a few story ideas that sprang from musical inspiration, so I might have to check out Ms. Almazan's series.

Barbara In Caneyhead said...

What is it these days?! They make sequels until they run a good thing into the ground. They do remakes of something that was a perfect classic to begin with. Once in a blue moon, they succeed in making something that was really worth the effort.

Barbara from Life & Faith in Caneyhead

J.L. Campbell said...

Lots of movies to choose from. Here's hoping Sandra's book gets a lotta love!

Unknown said...

Oh no, I can't believe you said that about Independence Day. I really enjoyed the first one, but what's not to enjoy with Will Smith as your leading man, and I'm looking forward to seeing the return of it, but it looks like I'm going to have to remove my head first! Oh dear...

H.R. Bennett said...

I'd be lying if I didn't admit that a few of the upcoming movies made me gag, but given the day: HOW DID INDEPENDENCE DAY GET A SEQUEL?! Seriously?! It's one thing to have a big, dumb action movie...but a second 'more serious' one?!

Rant ended.

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

The Tarzan movie tempts me. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and reviews!

Sandra Cox said...

Bourne should be good.....

Tara Tyler said...

i love your movie preview posts! esp the comments!
not a whole lot to look forward to - yay for Jason Bourne's return though.

and congrats to the newly released books!

Heather M. Gardner said...

Ahwwww.
I was hoping ID2 was going to be better than that. Oh well. I'll wait to see it at the library.

I do want to see the new Bourne and Secret Life of Pets and of course I want to see the new Star Trek! I think I might cry when I see Anton Yelchin. :(
So tragic.


Heather

Jennifer Lane said...

I wasn't a fan of the first Independence Day film, largely because I didn't think Bill Pullman was credible as president. Now I see the two yahoos we have as candidates for president and I wish Bill Pullman was running LOL. Secret Life of Pets looks hilarious!

Rachna Chhabria said...

I'm eager to see BFG and The Secret Life of Pets.

N. R. Williams said...

Since my head is permanently attached, I won't be going to Independence Day II.

I was a huge Beatles fan too, though they didn't inspire me to be a writer. I'm curious as to which one inspired which character.

It's Wed. here. I'll be back later.
Nancy

Blue Grumpster said...

I couldn't agree more. Recycled plots.... No, thank you.

Blue Grumpster said...

Three times is a charm. My nephew wants to go... with me.... Dear Zod.

The Happy Whisk said...

Hey Alex. By time I got the end of the comments, I forgot what I wanted to say.

lolololol.

Superhero movies are silly. What a plunker.

Anonymous said...

Will definitely see the Tarzan movie. I'm intrigued. And the guy is so damn cute.

Independence Day, though? Wasn't impressed with the movie trailer. Been there, done that?