Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Insecure Writer’s Support Group, December Movie Preview, Ralph Breaks the Internet and Overlord Movie Reviews, and Haken Concert Review

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

The awesome co-hosts today are December 5 posting of the IWSG are J.H. Moncrieff, Tonja Drecker, Patsy Collins, and Chrys Fey!


Today’s question - What are five objects we’d find in your writing space?

Let’s see…jar of candy (usually Hot Tamales), my iPad, a Starcraft Protess Pylon USB charger, some sports memorabilia, and on the wall hangs framed comic books and other movie artwork.

And yes - back from my break in November. I've over 23,000 words for my next story now.


The #IWSGPit Twitter pitch is once a year now.
And the next one is in January!
Don’t miss it.



The next WEP Challenge is December 19! 


It's much broader than a Christmas story! Give us ribbons - a race? Or candles - a tomb?
Sign up now at the WEP site.

We also have a winner for the February WEP theme challenge – Toi Thomas with the theme 28 Days.

Tyrean Martinson won the IWSG admin theme challenge for next December with the theme Footprints.

Congratulations, ladies!



Movie Reviews

Ralph Breaks the Internet

The sequel to Wreck-It Ralph, this one sends Ralph and Vanellope to the Internet to find a steering wheel for her arcade game.
The film pokes at all things Internet without linger long on any of it. As one reviewer said, it achieves what Ready Play One failed to do.
Some of the animation is stunning. The main character from the online game Slaughter Race (voiced beautifully by Gal Gadot) looks incredibly realistic.
Seeing all of the Disney princesses is funny and the pop-up crook and his sidekick are indeed both kicks. While it’s a lot of fun, the film is a bit heavy in places. It’s missing some of the first film’s innocence.
If you enjoyed the first one, you will enjoy this one.
Recommended

Overlord

On the eve of D-Day, American paratroopers drop behind enemy lines to penetrate the walls of a fortified church and destroy a radio transmitter. As the soldiers approach their target, they soon begin to realize that there's more going on in the Nazi-occupied village than a simple military operation.…
It’s two thirds war film, one third horror movie. It’s also an excellent adventure film and very tense from start to finish. The movie has an 80’s vibe to it.
The beginning scene with the ships and planes approaching, and being bombed, rivals any straight war film. The effects and production values are excellent. This is not a B film – it’s big budget all the way.
The lead, actor Jovan Adepo, is really good and very believable. Plus it also stars Wyatt Russell (yes, Kurt Russell’s son), Pilou Asbaek (from Game of Thrones), and Iain De Caestecker (Leo Fitz on Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.)
It’s not really original, but it’s done very well. A bit gory but not over the top and it doesn’t venture into too weird of an arena.
Recommended

Concert Review – Hakan

Made a road trip to catch these guys – never thought I’d actually see this British prog band in concert!
Bent Knee was the opening band. They were…interesting. But good and very inventive. I will give them that. And their lead singer’s voice was beautiful – even if the band doesn’t make it, she will.
Leprous followed. It was a band I knew just a little about and I couldn’t put my finger on why they didn’t click with me. And then the lead singer opened his mouth and it became crystal clear. They were way too loud and horribly mixed. Their sound guys should be fired. And the band should take music lessons.
Then came Hakan! They were spectacular. I so enjoy seeing a show with musicians at the top of their game. And these guys are elite level musicians. I watched them perform in total awe and fascination – how do they do that???? I’m still not sure how they achieved what they did. Plus their lead singer is fantastic and very engaging. It was a great show and sadly over all too soon.

Passing of a Great One

I usually don’t post sad news, but we lost a great friend recently. Gary’s beloved doggie friend, Penny passed away in October.

She was his and his son Tristan’s trusted companion for eighteen years. And she often blogged for Gary when he wasn’t feeling up to it.

Penny, you will always be an Internet Superstar and we will miss you!




December Movie Preview

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

14-

Mortal Engines
A mysterious young woman named Hester Shaw joins forces with Anna Fang, a dangerous outlaw with a bounty on her head, and Tom Natsworthy, an outcast from London, to lead a rebellion against a giant predator city on wheels.
Director: Christian Rivers
Stars: Hugo Weaving, Stephen Lang, Hera Hilmar, Robert Sheehan
A much cooler title than The City that Ate Paris.

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse
Spider-Man crosses parallel dimensions and teams up with the Spider-Men of those dimensions to stop a threat to all reality.
Directors: Bob Persichetti | Peter Ramsey | Rodney Rothman
Stars: Nicolas Cage, Hailee Steinfeld, Mahershala Ali, Liev Schreiber
Cool – Spider-Man comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, and genders. Collect them all! (The more Spideys the better.)



21-

Aquaman
Arthur Curry learns that he is the heir to the underwater kingdom of Atlantis, and must step forward to lead his people and be a hero to the world.
Director: James Wan
Stars: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Dolph Lundgren, Nicole Kidman
I read Aquaman comics religiously when I was growing up. Now as a mature adult with objectivity and wisdom, I can say…Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy – I can’t wait!!!




28-

Holmes & Watson
A humorous take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic mysteries featuring Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Watson.
Director: Etan Cohen
Stars: Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, Ralph Fiennes, Rebecca Hall
I’ve only found two Ferrell films to be funny – maybe Holmes can find some clues as to what makes a film funny.


What’s in your writing space? Participating in WEP or #IWSGPit? See either movie last month? Heard of Haken? And what movies catch your attention this month?

I’ll have two more posts this month, including a review of the new season of MST3K, which dropped on Thanksgiving!

129 comments:

Cathrina Constantine said...

Hi, Alex, do I have the wrong co-hosts for Dec. 5? On the IWSG site it states: My awesome co-hosts for the December 5 posting of the IWSG are J.H. Moncrieff, Tonja Drecker , Patsy Collins, and Chrys Fey! Wondering if I need to make a change.

Congratulations on accomplishing such a fabulous word count for Nov. Totally Awesome!! Keep it up!

Elephant's Child said...

Welcome back. I am blown away at your word count. But shouldn't have been.

Elephant's Child said...

I didn't make myself clear. I shouldn't have been blown away because you are the king of high achievers.

Denise Covey said...

You've been busy Alex. Thanks for the peek into your writing space. I guess it's not what's in there that's important, it's what comes out! Hoping for early entries for WEP. A good sign up already!

RaveAir said...

Sad thing there is no new Star Wars movie at December. :(
However the Aquaman and Mortal Engines are look promising.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

For all these years you've spoken about Hot Tamales, I didn't realize they were candy. Hahahahahaa.

Shannon Lawrence said...

Hey, I know Kim! Just saw her in October, and I had no idea she was part of IWSG. Small world.

I hadn't heard of Overlord until my husband went to see it on his movie night. I look forward to renting it. Definitely looking forward to Aquaman! No thanks on Holmes, though. Looks like a waste of my time.

nashvillecats2 said...

Welcome back Alex, It's good to see what plans there are for next year.
Keep up the good work/

Yvonne.

The Angry Lurker said...

Still need to see Overlord!

Patsy said...

I have a 200 year old musket ball, glass goat, model Scotty dog and a flint under my monitor – they're symbolic of my past and changes in my life.

Ann V Friend said...

Blessings and Happy Holidays!

Pat Hatt said...

Great that you got a good chunk in on the next one. Will see Ralph at some point here. Yeah, Elf and Old School are the only two Ferrell films I can stand. His manchild routine gets old very fast.

Erika Beebe said...

I bet those hot tamales really get the brain spinning with great ideas :) Thanks for the great review of Ralph wrecks the internet. I missed the first one but intend to watch it now. My thoughts and prayers go out to Penny. She looks very sweet. And all the movies coming up! Wow! It will be a great holiday season and I can't watch to catch a few. Happy IWSG Day :)

Nick Wilford said...

So sorry to hear about Penny. Definitely a star of the blogging world!

Sounds like you have everything in your writing space you need.

I hadn't heard of Haken but when it comes to British prog, I've blogged about the band Mansun before - I'm not a prog fan per se but their album Six has massive elements of that to it. I just saw their lead singer (Paul Draper) in concert the other week too, as he recently made a comeback after years out of the limelight. His solo album nods towards prog, too. Recommended!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Cathrina, thanks for catching that - the site was right.

Elephant's Child, thanks. I've won NaNo before but last month that wasn't the goal.

Zoltan, I know! They should've saved Solo for this month.

Lynda, not just for Mexican dishes anymore!

Shannon, that's cool you met her! You'll get a kick out of Overlord.

Pat, yes it does...

Erika, Penny was a Superstar.

Nick, very cool! You need to check out Haken.

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Sounds like a couple of good movies! I'll pass them along to the kids and husband. :)

Penny looks like she was a sweetheart.

Aquaman was one of my favorite Superfriends. :) He wasn't featured nearly enough in the cartoon on Saturday mornings.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

Congratulations, Alex, on 23,000 words! That is a great start to a book.

I see movies in my December future!!!

Losing a pet is so hard. They are such a part of our lives.

Teresa

Liza said...

My sister used to love Hot Tamales! Congratulations on 23K. Great start! I remember a time when you paused in your writing. Glad that didn't hold!

Diane Burton said...

Congrats on 23k words. Super! I just saw a trailer for Overlord. Looks interesting. Have a great month.

Jennifer Hawes said...

I can't wait to see Wreck-it-Ralph 2. I hope Ferrel doesn't mess up Sherlock Holmes. I love Cumberbatch. Hope you have a great Christmas!

Donna K. Weaver said...

Haha The City the Ate Paris.

We're looking forward to Aquaman and I'm looking forward to Mary Poppins.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I thought the Aquaman preview looked pretty good! My earliest memories of Aquaman was that old cartoon, Superfriends, that used to air on Saturday afternoons by me. :)

Joanne said...

welcome back and congrats on all the creative words written. Wow.
I'm way behind on movies, but psyched for Aquaman. At my desk, an art sculpture called soaring, assorted knick-knacks, a pink stuffed pig, my books on a shelf, and a calendar. Plenty of stuff to inspire....
Cheers to December for you - have fun

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Elizabeth, now he gets his own movie!

Teresa, yes they are.

Liza, it's trying to stay stuck though...

Jennifer, don't hold your breath.

Madeline, I watched that cartoon as well.

Julie Flanders said...

Congrats on the story progress - that's fantastic.
I thought sure Mini Alex would be hanging around your space LOL.
I was so heartbroken when I heard about Penny. Such a special girl and she will be missed for sure.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

So very sad we lost Penny.

Jason Momoa is Aquaman. That's all I need to know.

Natalie Aguirre said...

Congrats on getting so much writing done in November. Sounds like you have a cool writing space. My jar of candy would always be empty though. My husband loved hot tamales.

You forgot a fun movie in your movie previews--Mary Poppins Returns. Ha! Ha!

Susan Flett Swiderski said...

It's soooo sweet that you mentioned Penny. (You're a very nice ninja.) I know Gary and his son miss her terribly.

Both the Spiderman and the Aquaman movies sound like they'll be fun to watch. Will Ferrell doesn't usually tickle my funny bone, either.

Congrats on the good word count for the month! You've got this...

The Cynical Sailor said...

Gary and his son must be missing Penny terrible :-(

Congrats on all of those words written!

I'm not a big fan of Will Ferrel movies either, but maybe this will be the one to change my mind.

Patricia Stoltey said...

I'm so sorry to hear about Penny. Losing a dear friend and companion is so sad.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Hi Alex, though you have spoken about Hot Tamales so much, I had no idea that it was some kind of candy, I thought that it was some kind of chips.

My heart goes out to Gary and his son, Penny was the inspiration for my Middle Grade book Scavage (now titled Bruno and Ivy). The moment I saw Penny's photo on Gary's site, the idea for the book dropped into my head.

Stacy McKitrick said...

23K words? Awesome work!
Name 5 things in my space. Hmmm... Paper notebook (where I make my list of things to do), box of Kleenex, water bottle, The Synonym Finder (book), and the Romance Readers Report (magazine from RWA).
I'm not looking forward to any of the movies you listed, but plan on seeing Mary Poppins this Christmas. I also want to see the PG-13 Dead Pool movie.

Christine Rains said...

Fantastic work getting those words down! We hope to get out to see the new Ralph movie this weekend. I took my son to see to the new Grinch. It was simple and entertaining enough, but I prefer the classic Grinch. My hubby and I managed to get in some MST3K on Thanksgiving! :)

Tyrean Martinson said...

Thanks for the great reviews of those movies and the bands, and the snark for the upcoming movies ... ooh, the snark. :) Loved it.
I'm really sorry to hear about Penny - she will be missed by many.

Tamara Narayan said...

Condolences to Penny's family and fans. It is so hard to say goodbye to a beloved pet.

C.D. Gallant-King said...

So sad to hear about the doggie. Losing a pet is always hard, especially one that's been around for so long.

I am super pumped for the new Spider-Man movie, though the rest of my family wants to see Wreck-It Ralph. I'm sure that will be fine, too (and will be the only way to see Stormtroopers this December) but c'mon. So man Spider-Mans. (Spider-Men? Spider-People?)

Debra Renée Byrd said...

Signed up for the e-mails from WEP! I've been away from blogs so long I couldn't figure out what it stood for. lol

cleemckenzie said...

I'd choose Hot Tamales if I had the guts to keep candy by my desk.

So glad you gave space to Penny. I know Gary will appreciate it.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

Penny will always live on in the internet and in the hearts of those who loved her. I want to see Ralph II, Aquaman, Into the Spiderverse, and Mary Poppins Returns ... but with the holiday blood runs will probably see none of them. :-( I already posted my WEP on the first. May this Holiday Season be your best yet! :-)

Sadira Stone said...

I can't wait for Aquaman! In September, I went to an RWA conference in Seattle, and the hottest raffle prize was a life-size cutout of Jason Momoa in this role. Congrats on your story progress--you must be a swift writer. Thanks for sharing all you do with all of us, and happy writing in December!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hi Alex!

Congrats on the 23K words! That is AWESOME! Thanks for the review of Ralph... plan to see it this week. It does look like a fun film. Today I am reseeing Fantastic Beasts Crimes... in 3D this time. Hopefully I will enjoy it more. I usually like to see films like this twice before I make my final decision to buy on DVD.

I must look at questions before I post... lol. I liked this month's question... My writing space in Chicago has signed HP art by MinaLima... LOVE their Graphics! A HUGE Iron bookshelf filled with everything from my fav books to CD'S collectibles etc. I write on my daybed ... super comfy and of course Hamlet, my best pal, laying at my feet. In Florida, I hang on the couch and write. Hamlet is usually at me feet. LOL.

Have a wonderful HOLIDAY, my friend. Have a Happy and Healthy new year! All the best to you and your wife!

Jemima Pett said...

Good to know your writing mojo is alive and well. Keep up the good work.

PJ Colando said...

thanks for the December movie previews and reviews. I took my husband to see "Can You Ever Forgive Me?", starring Melissa M. is a fully repugnant, yet true life role and he'll never forgive me for that
bad-for-him pick.

Yet again, proof that writers think differently and that husbands of writers are good sports!

Ha-happy! You've helped save a marriage today!

Arlee Bird said...

I'm not overly excited about any of these new films. The Ralph film might be okay since I did like what I saw of the first one. I probably should go back and actually watch all of that one before seeing the new one.

Arlee Bird
Tossing It Out

Toi Thomas said...

Happy IWSG Day Alex, and Happy Holidays!
Ralph Breaks the Internet looks good but I still haven't seen the first one. I guess I'll have to binge them both at some point in the future.
The effects for Mortal Engines look really cool.
Spider-Verse looks awesome. I'm so into this.
Aquaman actually looks good. Maybe DC can do more than just make a good Wonder Woman movie.
I'm not interested in another Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly team up, but I am curious about Stan & Ollie. Reilly looks great in the trailer.

H. R. Sinclair said...

I haven't had Hot Tamales in a long time. They are so good. Mmmmm... where were we? I haven't seen any movies lately. :(

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Julie, yes she will. Mini-Alex might be by next week...

Natalie, out of room.

Thanks, Susan.

Ellen, don't hold your breath...

Rachna, that's cool. Did you tell Gary? He would be so touched.

Stacy, be interesting to see how they pull off PG13.

Christine, good for you - Turkey Day!

Tyrean, I am here to amuse.

CD - Spider-Peeps?

Deb - funny!

Lee, you have good taste.

Rhonda, that is funny!

Michael, Hamlet is your constant.

PJ, good!

Lee, it would help...

Tonja Drecker said...

So sorry to hear about Penny. Congratulations to Toi! Candy on the side of writing is power food!

Jennifer Lane said...

Do you write on your iPad, Alex? If so, do you use Pages? How does that work in terms of collaborating with other writers/editors?

If you like hot tamales, does that mean you love hot sauce too?

David Powers King said...

Not sure which movie I'll make it to this month, but there's a lot of good choices. About time we had another Sherlock Holmes comedy! :)

M.J. Fifield said...

I was very sad to hear about Penny's passing.

I've only found two Ferrell films worthwhile as well—Elf and Stranger Than Fiction.

And I'm torn on the Aquaman movie. On one hand, I have been mostly disappointed by the DC movies (Wonder Woman being the lone exception). On the other hand...Jason Momoa.

Rebecca M. Douglass said...

Well done on the writing progress!

Andrew Leon said...

bah
Too many things to comment on so I will comment on none.
wait!
except

Spider-Man!

Pat Garcia said...

Hi,
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is difficult. It is one of those things we have to face. I am glad they had eighteen years together. He'll always be a part of them.

Also congrats on your achievement on your new book.

Shalom aleichem,
Pat G

Anonymous said...

Kudos on the 23K! What a great way to end the year. Sorry to hear about Penny - sympathies to her family. It's always tough to lose a devoted companion. I am totally intrigued by Overlord. History twisted with horror is right up my alley.

Jemi Fraser said...

Great job on the word count - that's awesome!!!
I didn't think to add that there's almost always some dark chocolate around when I'm writing! Not a candy fan, but chocolate works just as well :)

Mark Koopmans said...

Yeah, that humor thing was a well-needed return for me. Been way too long:)

Great job on the 23,000 words man! A change is as good as a break, as you obviously didn't rest on your laurels!

Definitely sad news about Penny. Some of Gary's posts about her were among the best I've ever read. An internet superstar for sure.

Heather Erickson said...

Hi Alex. My 20-year-old daughter and her friends loved "Ralph." I haven't seen either of them, though. In recent years I have devoted December to Christmas movies, the corny ones on Netflix that all have the same plot about a guy who's a workaholic with no time for Christmas until he bumps into (literally) a sweet woman who shows him the light. I think with the stress and busyness that can often come during the holidays, it helps to not have to think much. At least, that's my theory at this point as to why these films are so popular, despite the fact that no one wants to admit they watch them. Have a great week!

diedre Knight said...

Hi Alex!
Lots of exciting stuff going on here! I like the premise of Overlord. The kids were a little ho-hum about Ralph, though seemed to love the animation as much as you did. In a sense, there’s a genius to creating shows that mature as the kids do.
Haken isn’t really my style, but you’re right, they do know their music and come off as professionals.
I was sorry to read of Superstar Penny’s passing, and sent her humans a warm cyberhug of strength and compassion.
Somehow I’m not surprised that Nicolas Cage would be in a Spiderman movie ;-) You’re not too excited about Aquaman, are you?
Sounds like you’re rockin’ your next novel right onto the new bestseller list – fantastic!

Mary Kirkland said...

I don't know many people who like Hot Tamales like I do. That's awesome. I usually have candy on my laptop table too. I just bought some of those rootbeer barrels. I love those things too.

I'm really looking forward to Aquaman.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Toi, Aquaman is already getting rave reviews.

Jennifer, I have written on my iPad and in Pages. I usually convert to Word and continue working on my computer though.

MJ, it's already getting stellar reviews!

Andrew, now that's the Christmas cheer...

Lee, you would dig it then.

Mark, yes she was.

Heather, you know what you like and that's good.

Diedre, it's the movie I've waited my whole life for...

Mary, you rock!

Liz A. said...

Overlord has an interesting premise, but I'm so not a horror fan. I hope it does well. I've seen trailers for several of the other movies. I don't go to the movies too often, so it was weird that I've seen the trailer for the Spiderman one several times. (Looks interesting.)

Anonymous said...

Aww, sorry to hear about Penny.

That's a great word count, Alex. Way to go. =D

Lisa said...

Great word count! Go dude! Or should I say Ninja?!
I too, can't wait to see Aquaman, as I too, read him as a youngster.
I hadn't heard of some of the other movies, but the Overlord sounds interesting. The things you have on your desk sound a lot more interesting than the things on mine!
I don't really go to concerts anymore. They cost so much nowadays, and are so loud. Oh to be young again and not care!

Suzanne Furness said...

It's lovely to see you remember dear Penny this month. I will miss her pawsitive wishes around the blogosphere. She was a true star and thoughts are with Gary and Tristan.
Glad to hear you have had an awesome break adding to your wip, Alex.

J.H. Moncrieff said...

Always happy to co-host. The comments people are leaving on my blog are so unbelievably nice. I love this group!

Congrats on your word count--that's awesome.

I've heard quite a few people are looking forward to Aquaman. It might just break some records. ;)

Merry Christmas, Alex! All the best in the New Year.

CV Grehan said...

I have no Hot Tamales. That's why my desk space feels incomplete. So clear to me now ...

Juneta key said...

Can't wait to see Aquaman and Mortal Engines. Also the new Fantastic Beasts. Happy IWSG Day.

Carrie-Anne said...

I might try the WEP contest. I'll let my writing groups know about it too, and the IWSGPit.

J E Oneil said...

I wish I could keep candy near me but it would be eaten too quickly. How awesome that you have 23K down. That's a great start.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lisa, that's why I wear earplugs...

JH, that is awesome to hear about the nice comments.

CV, you know what you have to do...

Carrie-Anne, please do! They can post on their blogs or on Facebook.

Raimey Gallant said...

1. Hot tamales are my favorite candy. 2. Ralph breaks the Internet sounds pretty great. I'm in the mood for something animated at the moment.

Mary Aalgaard said...

Your concert experience sounds great. It's always special to catch an act that we've long admired.

I'll have my IWSG post up by tonight. December got the better of me, and it's only the 5th!

emaginette said...

Congrats on coming back and the word count. I'm sorry for your loss. So heart wrenching.

Anna from elements of emaginette

Anonymous said...

Oh no! I'm so saddened to hear about Penny. Poor Gary. I can feel his pain. We lost one of our dogs last month and I'm still grieving. I expect to hear his tail thumping on the floor when I walk into the bedroom because he loved to sleep under the bed...anyway, ugh, I'm so sad for Gary and his son.

You had an awesome time off! I'm so glad. You deserved it and I'm glad you also got a ton of writing done too. I think Ralph will be a definite rental...heck, maybe even a purchase.

Elsie

Melissa said...

I'm so sad for Gary. I'm gonna miss his Penny.

JM Weiner, Author said...

Hi, Alex. So, Movies=Aquaman. Bummed I won't be able to see it on the big screen...pleased the hubby puts up with my crush! My post is up about my writing space...though my Dr Pepper is in the floor in a 2 liter today instead of a can to the right of my laptop lol

I am so sorry about your fur-family. I can't imagine losing any of mine, and we've not been together all that long! I'm sure she's perusing the internets and doing her favorite doggie things!

Chemist Ken said...

Glad to hear that Ralph is good. The trailers made me a little wary. Then again, the trailers for the first movie were so bad that I almost didn't go because of them. Glad I did.

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Congratulations on the progress for your new story. That's great.

It is sad to lose a pet (friend.) Sorry. They're in our memories.

Liesbet said...

Congratulations with a productive November, Alex. Now that I'm house sitting again, having all the facilities and time I need to work on my memoir, I'm still looking for excuses, so I totally respect your determination and focus.

I will definitely participate in the IWSG Pitch Party in January. By then, I hope to be pretty close to the end of my WIP.

Haken sounds like an interesting band - you got me curious.

My husband and I saw a documentary about Walt Disney on Netflix last night. I have a renewed admiration for animation after that. Wow, that man was a visionary and a genius!

Lynn La Vita said...

Wow, by golly & hot tamales! 23K words count; ! that's a great start.

Gwen Gardner said...

Well done on the word count! I'm just now starting to get back on track with my writing.

So heartbroken about Penny. She was such a special girl. I went by Gary's blog and came back here.

Thanks for the news, Alex!

John Wiswell said...

Wow, they just won't stop making Holmes stuff, huh? I hope fans of the IP enjoy it.

The only movie I'd really like to see out of the list is Aquaman. I'm here for superheroes who actually have a good time.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Raimey, you are very cool!

Elsie, they continue to haunt you for a very long time like that.

JM - a two liter? You are going for it.

Liesbet, cool you will participate in the pitch. And Walt Disney was an amazing man.

John, all early reviews says it's a heck of a lot of fun!

Mason Canyon said...

Of the new movies coming out, I'd say Aquaman is the one I'm looking forward to the most. So sorry to read about Penny. It's hard to lose our four-legged babies.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

My kids are excited about Aquaman, but I don't know... I will likely rent Overlord. It sounds interesting.
Have a great holiday.

Roland Clarke said...

Like you I read Aquaman comics religiously so that is a movie that I will be watching out for. Doing IWSG today, of course, and aiming to do a WEP post.

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

May Penny rest in peace. I think I met her even before I met Gary. She was very well loved.
Thank you for mentioning her Alex.
Take care, Alex.

Samantha Bryant said...

That charger is super important! Sometimes I wish I could just plug myself in for an energy boost like I can my devices! @mirymom1 from
Balancing Act

Sandra Cox said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Sandra Cox said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Botanist said...

That's a good word count from your break, Alex. Good going!

And such sad news about Penny. She was a big part of the blogging community for a long time.

Sandra Cox said...

Whoops. I'm turning into the delete queen.
Welcome back and many congrats on a great word count.
I'm anxious to see Aquaman too:)
I'm so sorry about the loss of Penny. FYI: Both our dog and our son's dog are named Penny. Eighteen is an amazing age for a dog.

Sara Codair said...

Candy? Sounds like a great space!

kimlajevardi.com said...

I'll take a handful of candy. :) Sounds like your November break was very productive. Congrats!

XmasDolly said...

Well, as far as Penny is concerned I'm sure she has passed over to Rainbow bridge by now & is playing with 2 of my black labs by now. I still miss Cleo & Baby. We had them until they were very old. Our Vet said Vets don't live as long as we had them, but it was evident they were very well loved. He was happy we finally got another one. Charlie is only 2 yrs old & Baby went through Rainbow Bridge when she was 17 Charlie will live many, many years. It's the first time we ever had a male dog, but I think he'll be just fine. It took us two yrs. to get another dog, but If I had to do it again I think we would've gotten on sooner. Anyway my friend must get to sleep going into Good Samaritan Hospital for a pain shot (steroids) to chase the pain away & please fingers crossed & maybe a prayer or two for me, yes??? Thanks much! BIG HUGS

Ray Rousell said...

Lookkng forward to Overlord and the clips I've seen of Holmes & Watson made me chuckle, so fingers crossed....

Fundy Blue said...

Way to go, Alex: 23,000 words! I think your Starcraft Protess Pylon USB charger is way cooler than my power strip! Penny looks like a darling doggie. How sad that Gary lost Penny, but how fortunate that they shared eighteen years together. I'm so hopelessly behind on movies, I'm throwing up hands. Have a good one, my friend!

Cathy Keaton said...

Word count is looking good. Merry Christmas!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Susan, it's getting great early buzz!

Robyn, I couldn't not mention her.

Sandra, yes it is. Most dogs only make it to twelve or so.

Maria, continued prayers! Penny is probably playing with my black labs as well.

Ray, you would really dig Overlord.

Fundy, I need to post a photo of that charger.

Stephen Tremp said...

We're looking forward to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Looks like I'll be seeing Overlord alone though. Previous looked great hope the movie follow suit.

sherry fundin said...

Congrats on the word count. Ralph Breaks The Internet sounds like a real hoot.
sherry @ fundinmental

Loni Townsend said...

My husband and I got to take the kids to Ralph Wrecks the Internet this past weekend. Admittedly, I started crying when the relationship turmoil flared up. It was gorgeously rendered though. Loved it.

Wookt for 23K!! That's awesome!

Olga Godim said...

I must have a kid hidden deep inside me because of all the movies you mention in this post, the only one that attracted my attention was the Ralph anime.

Sandra Cox said...

I like Holmes and Watson movies but I'm not a Will Ferrell fan.
Have a good one, Alex:)

Mark said...

Although I love the idea of a writer's nook, I'm usually writing whenever I can, which means being on my laptop while on public transit :)

Truedessa said...

Hi Alex,

I miss you when you are not posting but, I am happy you are writing.

I cannot wait to see Aquaman I saw the previews and it looks amazing.

I did hear about Dear Penny and sent a note to her human friend.

Thank you for all you do!

kaykuala said...

Welcome back Alex! Sorry to hear of Penny's demise. 18 years is a pretty long time. There is a great line-up for next year to look forward to though!

Hank

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Stephen, I wouldn't take the kids to that one...

Loni, I think my wife started crying as well.

Olga, nothing wrong with that!

Sandra, me neither.

Truedessa, I won't go that long in between posts again. I missed all of you.

Hank, glad to be back!

Birgit said...

Penny is so cute and even though she lived a long and good life, it still hurts like heck so my thoughts are with them. I love what you have around your desk...I have paper, pens, pencils, cat and dog hair and pictures of my hubby and my mom. I'm glad to see you are back and hope you had a nice time off. It sounds like your concert was, overall, quite good except for that one band. Will Ferrell is so dumb and, I think, he is quite arrogant in real life but I do find most of his comedies funny...stupid but funny. I don't like Anchorman at all though. Love to see Aquaman for sure and that looks exciting.

Kate Larkindale said...

My kids and I are looking forward to Ralph Breaks the Internet. It hasn't come out here yet, but it will in the next coupe of weeks.

Elizabeth Mueller said...

Mortal Engines looks really good. I hope it's not disappointing in the least bit! Thank you for dropping by and commenting on my post, Alex. You're such a good friend! Hope all's well in Real Land!

Michelle Wallace said...

23,000 words is a lot of words. Well done.
I'm trying to put the finishing touches to my December WEP piece... a little spit and polish.
Happy Holidays to you and yours!

mail4rosey said...

I am sorry to hear about Penny. My condolences to her family. :(

We had a Penny once too (the 1st stray dog I brought home and begged my mom to keep, and the only one she actually let stay...after we unsuccessfully searched for her owner). She was a hound dog, a real beauty.

We may not go see Ralph, though I do like Gadot! How fun that she's doing voice. :)

Here to wish you a wonderful weekend!

Susan Kane said...

My favorite writing place is on the DR table, surrounded by my husband's clutter. Sounds bad but it makes me comfortable.

I can not wait for Aquaman. OHboyOHboyOHboy, indeed.

Magic Love Crow said...

Welcome back Alex! Hot Tamales? Are they really hot? LOL! 23,000 words? Wow, I'm not a writer, but that sounds alot! Ralph Breaks the Internet sounds really cute! Sorry about Penny! Bless her heart! Another Spider-Man? I don't know? LOL! Take Care!

klahanie said...

Hi Alex,

First of all, good sir, welcome back to your fine self. That's an awful lot of words!

Thank you for another informative post. And especially, thank you so much for the mention of our beloved Penny. She was and still is, a huge part of my son's life and my life. Her loving magic works in wondrous ways.

In gratitude,

Gary

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Hey... how are my friend? I see the world was and still will be a brighter place with Penny being in it... sending the love to our friend Gary. So many things to talk about, so let's say "Oh Yeah" to all of it. Things here are the same, life is... what it is, nothing to raise the roof. Great friends keep close and remind me "we are not alone"....

Someone said to me... the other day, 2019 isn't going to be better because it's another year.. I said then we better jump on and into today... make it as good as you can, until you can't.

My crazy rambles, bottom line is... stay golden, pony boy.

Jeremy

Yolanda Renée said...

I seemed to have continued the NANO challenge. Been trying to finish edits. But it gets crazy, finally took a break to catch up with the blog. Lots of films. Watched SNL with the star of the movie. Looks like an interesting premise.

Happy Holidays!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Birgit, Anchorman was awful. Had one funny line and it was said by Steve Carell.

Elizabeth, just glad you are back with us!

Rosey, and it even looks like her.

Susan, yes!!

Crow, they are a bit spicy hot. Think red hots.

Gary, I couldn't not mention Penny. She was special to all.

Well said, Jeremy. And who wants to go into 2019 with that attitude?

Jemima Pett said...

Well done with your wordcount.
What are Hot Tamales? I've always wondered, and I assumed they were some sort of chilli. But you class them as candy so now I'm confused!
Sorry about Penny. So sad. Lots of hugs to you all.

Jemima

Dawn Simon said...

Congrats on the word count! Wow! Great work!

I'm sad to hear about Penny. It's so hard when a beloved dog passes away.

I have two corkboards filled with character pictures, a favorite quote, and various items that I find inspiring or just fun. I also have a stack of spirals and composition books, two cups filled with pens, a big eraser from my mom, and a ceramic owl my daughter made for me. :)

mshatch said...

Congrats on all the words! In my writing space: a dictionary, thesaurus, small notebook, pen, name book, and water :)

Chrys Fey said...

Aquaman is going to rake in the money.

I'm finally hopping around to IWSG Day posts today. :)

DMS said...

I love your tribute to Penny. She was an international star for sure and very loved.

~Jess

The Happy Whisk said...

Sad to read about Penny. I'm glad you posted about it though. That was good of you. She really was an Internet star.

Deniz Bevan said...

Sad to hear about Penny.

Off to give Haken a listen!

Lidy said...

Consolation to Gary and his son over Penny.

Have yet to see the Wreck It Ralph sequel but my sons are dying to see it. Looking forward to watching Aquaman and Spiderverse.

Nicki Elson said...

Hi Alex! Congrats on getting so many words written for your new story.

I'm glad to hear the Wreck It Ralph is worth a watch, even if it's not as good as the first. Sorry to say that the only film listed here that I've seen is Holmes and Watson. I expected it to be horrible, and I would say it slightly exceeded expectations.

RIP, sweet Penny.