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 for the September 2 posting of the IWSG are Kate Larkinsdale, SE White, JS Pailly, Olga Godim, and Natalie Aguirre!
Note we need one more co-host for each remaining month - October, November, and December. Co-hosting is fun and if you can do it one of those months, leave a comment.
September marks the fifteenth anniversary of the IWSG! We began as a monthly blog hop before implementing a website for writers that would be the databases of databases of writing information. While some of our activities have ceased (anthology contest, Twitter pitches) we are still going strong on Facebook, X, and Instagram, plus we have a live writer’s group that meets in Virginia.
For this special occasion, we are asking members to do two things. If you have books for sale, include links to them in your post. Second, as you are visiting members, select five (or however many you can) to purchase. No pressure to read and review, just support a fellow member by buying a couple books.
Links to my books: CassaDawn, CassaStar, CassaFire, CassaStorm, CassaDark, and Dragon of the Stars
Thanks to those of you who have stuck with us. We couldn’t have done it without you!
The question for today - Do you have a favorite character archetype you tend to gravitate toward in your writing?
I guess my main characters all fall into the category of hero – one who faces a big challenge and grows. What can I say? I’m a creature of habit.
The End of Oak Street Movie Review
Residents wake up one morning and discover their neighborhood now resides in a prehistoric past.
Sadly this movie did not do well at the box office and I have no idea why. People love dinosaurs! And this is one fun dinosaur movie.
It is set in the 80’s but the movie itself has a very 80’s movie vibe, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
The special effects are really good, despite the very modest budget. Their version of dinosaurs (with feathers and fur) is refreshing as well. And if you thought the dinosaurs in Jurassic Park were scary, these guys are downright terrifying.
It takes a little time to set up the main characters – a family of four with mom about to leave them – but once the dinosaurs appear, the roller coaster begins.
Do note that while it is PG-13, it’s a strong PG-13. There are some gruesome dino deaths. If your seven-year-old loves dinosaurs, this just might scare him out of that.
Overall, it was a ton of fun and one scene three-fourths of the way in really surprised and shocked me. Add to the fact it’s run time is 1:39 and it’s the perfect length for this type of film.
Highly recommended!
September Movie Preview
Here are the theatrical releases for September. Descriptions courtesy of the IMDB. Snark provided by me.
11 –
Runner
Director – Scott Waugh
Stars – Alan Ritchson, Owen Wilson, Leila George
A former soldier and his unlikely partner become the targets of a ruthless cartel while racing to complete a critical medical delivery and save the life of a little girl.
Jack Reacher and Shanghai Noon’s Roy O’Bannon go on a road trip – looks like fun!
The Uprising
Director – Paul Greengrass
Stars – Andrew Garfield, Jamie Bell, Stephen Dillane
Based on the true story of the uprising that inspired the legend of Robin Hood, Andrew Garfield stars as the leader of a rebellion against the tyranny of King Richard II in a fight for justice.
It looks gritty and violent, but I prefer my Merry Men in Tights.
18 –
Resident Evil
Director – Zach Cregger
Stars – Austin Abrams, Paul Walter Hauser, Zach Cherry
Follows a hapless courier tasked with delivering a package to a remote hospital. He soon finds himself caught in the middle of an outbreak and must fight through hordes of mutated creatures to survive.
Someone should send Reacher and O’Bannon to Raccoon City to take care of that problem.
Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom
Directors – Steve Cox, Matthew Walker
Stars – Nina Sosanya, Paul Whitehouse, Justine Fletcher
On Halloween Eve at Mossy Bottom Farm, excitement turns to dismay when the clumsy Farmer ruins the pumpkin patch. Shaun tries fixing it with science experiments, but things go wrong when a wild beast appears in the woods.
This film and Resident Evil should be a great double-bill for you and the kids!
What do you regret? What does the IWSG mean to you? Seen The End of Oak Street? And what movie catches your attention this month?
Now, go buy some books!
Now, go buy some books!
59 comments:
Love héros in stories. I haven't seen many movies lately. Most of the movies here where I live are in Spanish. When I go to the States, I'll see two or three.
You've peaked my interest about the one with dinosaurs. Have a great weekend.
Oh and...Happy Fifteenth Anniversary!!!!!!
Happy IWSG anniversary! I think it's an awesome idea to buy some books of members to support each other. Thanks for all you do to keep this group going, Alex! I'm glad to co-host whenever you need help.
I can't wait to watch the end of oak street now.
Happy 15th anniversary! & TYSM
I went back in time on my blog and realized I joined the IWSG in 2013. Being a newbie blogger/writer, I waited to join because I felt totally insecure. LOL! Best thing I ever did! Happy 15 Years IWSG!!
Happy Anniversary--15 years of friendship and support is amazing. Thank you, Alex. Heroes are fun characters to write for sure. I can co-host in November!
Happy anniversary! I love the hero archetype as well, especially the skeptical hero. Glad to hear The End of Oak Street was good. I do love me some dinos! The scary movies are coming out for spooky season now.
I LOVE IWSG. So many blogging friends disappeared in the great exodus of 2014-2018, but this group has held firm -- thanks to great leadership, of course. It was nice knowing that even when I had to go on hiatus for several years, I would come back to friends.
Alex, I'm available in November for co-hosting if needed.
Happy 15th anniversary!
I have two books priced FREE today. Y'all stop by. :)
I can co-host in December.
Wow, 15 years congratulations. You have been a beacon of light to so many writers. We all need a story with a hero who grows and leaves a lasting impact on the reader.
I did go see The End of Oak Street with a friend who didn't want to go alone for the love of dinosaurs...haha..I found it entertaining, some wittiness nestled in the storyline. I have to agree there were some scenes eye closing worthy. With me saying "is it over yet" haha..The length was just right. I am not a fan of 3 hour movies...lol..I always need a bathroom break and miss something good. haha
I will check out books and see what might interest me. I have been wanting to buy a couple of Sandra's so now might be the perfect time.
I agree with Crystal. We've lost so many bloggers over the years, but this group remains loyal and true. Thanks Alex!
Oh, one of my all-time favourites, Men in Tights! Wonder if I can find it to stream this afternoon?
Happy anniversary, IWSG, and I’m able to co-host any of this months, Alex.
Jemima @ jemimapett.com
Thank you for all you do for all of us insecure writers. Your advice is priceless and has set me on a straighter path more than once.
I think I'm more in a Men in Tights mode right now than watching something serious... though that dinosaur movie sounds like fun.
Happy anniversary.
I think many great writers return to a certain archetype. Sherlock Holmes, Philip Marlowe, Sam Spade etc... why not!? I will wait for TV to see this dinosaur movie. I do like most things Ewan McGregor is in. I'll pass on the horror flicks but the Robin Hood movie sounds good. I just watched the Errol Flynn one again and loved it.
I'm looking forward to Oak Street. I like the trailer. I write different archetypes, but many of the books I read are hero--because they are UF.
And wow, 15 years. I can't believe it. It doesn't seem that long. Congrats.
Happy 15 years. I always gravitate toward the average person getting stuck in extraordinary circumstances archetype.
I wish they take Robin hood, Sherlock, and what have you, stick them in a vault for 50 years and never make another movie or TV show on them for that time. How many ways can you tell the same frigging story with the same frigging characters.
Happy 15 year anniversary!
Always enjoy your reviews. I've picked my five books, loaded them to Kindle. I have a lot of reading to do!
It's crazy to believe it's been 15 years. That also means that's about how long I've been writing as I started not long before I found IWSG. Maybe a year or 2. I think I joined in year 2. Either way, I'm glad the group is still going.
Happy 15th Anniversary IWSG! :-D
Me too, I like the hero archetype.
Have ‘The End of Oak Street’ on my TBW list. Just not sure my hubby will be willing to watch. ‘Runner’ sounds interesting too. Definite no on ‘Resident Evil’ as I don’t do zombies, but know my hubby is interested in it.
I don't usually like dinosaur movies, but the trailer for The End of Oak Street looked really interesting. And I'm excited for another Shaun the Sheep. Having a strong hero is so important! My sons loved your first book, so I will get some more today. You can add me to December for co-hosting.
You can't beat a good "hero" story!
You made some great hero characters.
I am all in for Shaun the Sheep.
Happy 15th Anniversary of the IWSG - what a wonderful initiative it is. . I wish I had seen Shaun the sheep when it was in the movie hall. I'll now have to wait until it's on a streaming pattern. I could co-host in November if you still need someone to do so.
Congratulations on supporting writers for 15 years. You've built a fantastic team! You are a hero!
Of course, you are the hero! You are the vaunted, undaunted captain of this blog hop< great supporter of all!
Ooh, you've got me intrigued by The End of Oak Street. Sounds right up my--alley. Heh. Happy Anniversary on IWSG, you did an amazing job of starting up a group that has helped and supported many, many authors. Kudos and thanks.
Alex, Congratulations and huge thank you for your dedication to IWSG! I may have crowed about IWSG too much in my Substack post, but it has been a huge part in helping me write and get my books out into the hands of readers and meet fabulous folks here.. So I will continue to crow. Thanks to all the members for their engagement in this community. So congrats to you all!!!
I haven't seen The End of Oak Street yet, but it sounds fun! Looking forward to The Uprising.
Natalie, appreciate that.
Cathrina, we are so glad you did.
Jennifer, thanks!
Crystal, we are still here for you.
Melissa, thanks!
Truedessa, those long movies are just too much anymore.
Jemima, thanks and bonus points for getting Men in Tights!
Pat, too many apparently.
Jacqui, you are awesome.
Jenni, double thanks!
Kalpana, thanks.
Thanks, everyone. You guys are the reason the IWSG is still going.
Runner is one I've been looking forward to. My daughter wants to watch The End of Oak Street, it looks interesting. Definitely going to see Resident Evil at some point.
I'm so sorry that I forgot to mention the anniversary in my post! That's really incredible that you've been around for 15 years. Congratulations! I can co-host in October or December if you still need someone.
That's a good definition of a hero! @samanthabwriter from
Balancing Act
Happy 15th Anniversary IWSG! Thank you so much for all you do, Alex, to assist your fellow insecure writer. This group has helped me enormously in this difficult writing and publishing journey. I'd be lost without you all.
Great idea to purchase a few books this month. Books make great gifts. For yourself as well as for others. I've read a few titles from our group and plan to purchase a few more today.
Happy Birthday, IWSG! Loved your review of End of Oak Street - I haven't seen it yet, but hope to soon (like really soon). I think I own all of your books, but ... if you write another one, I'll have another to purchase. :) And I'll go get some more today from more IWSG authors. :)
Alexa--I would love to offer to cohost, but I have a looming family emergency which I don't know when it will occur. I don't want to fall out at the last minute. Dang!
Love Heroes too - my favorite archetype in fiction. They come in all guises and sexes, and I love them all. They are fun to write too.
I'm really looking forward the The Uprising, I've seen a few clips and it looks excellent.
Knowing nothing about the end of oak street, it sounds exactly the type of our movies. We loved sheep movies. We just watched Sheep Detective with hugh jackson, so we can go from that to Shaun. Alan Ritchson with Owen wilson would be a good combo.
15 years! Wow. I can't believe we've all been blogging that long. I really need to pay more attention to the new movies. Some interesting ones are coming out.
Happy Anniversary! I hope this month produces a lot of sales for our IWSG members, and hopefully lots of reviews to follow!
JH, no worries and thanks!
Thanks, Tyrean.
Jacqui, no worries. Not with that looming.
Today's fiction definitely needs more heroes.
I saw Oak Street and it was better than I thought it would be! I liked it. It had plenty of action and suspense, some good creature effects and even good characterization. You're right about its one hour and 39 minute run being just right for that kind of movie. I also thought they did good depicting that early '80s culture.
15 years of IWSG! It has come a long ways, especially since it has a live meetup group. Id attend but im on the West Coast!
Heroes are fun to read.
Howdy, Captain!
Sorry I'm making the rounds so late. We're on the road again.
Fifteen years! Holy smokes! Happy Anniversary, IWSG!! And many thanks to you, Alex. I love this community :-) I can help out in November. You reminded me that I started watching The End of Oak Street. Now if I can just remember where...I can see how any kind of hero might end up in one of your books.
Happy IWSG in September!
Happy IWSG Anniversary! Thank you for founding it and for keeping it going all these years. It's been a great community of writers!
Congratulations on 15 years!
My favorite character archetype is the sex positive woman who's a bad*ss. Dolly Parton's one of her inspirations.
Take care, Alex.
Happy September.
What's a story without a hero? Good choice. Congrats on surviving all these years online
Happy Birthday IWSG!
I've found the options of movies lately to be rather disappointing. I have a $5 off option for movie tickets, but there's nothing in the theater I want to see.
Well done, Alex, on the IWSG and fifteen years of supporting authors! It's a fab group :-)
And, the hero is THE archetype to write!
Hi Alex - it's great to have your support over all these years IWSG and in fact back. Congratulations - and there are lots of characters here ... the fun, positive types - here's to many more & cheers Hilary
Happy 15th! I'm so grateful for the IWSG. It was the first writing group I ever joined, and I've learned so much and found so much encouragement.
I'd love to co-host, but my no-longer-new job makes it almost impossible unless I take time off. I could co-host in May, because I'm taking the first week of the month off and will have plenty of time to visit folks on IWSG Day rather than days later. So if you need someone for May, please sign me up.
Hi, Alex!
The End Of Oak Street sounds like my kinda thing, especially if it has an '80s vibe. I just finished reviewing the series of Jurassic Park sequels starring Opie Taylor's daughter, Bryce Dallas Howard, and I'm stoked for more dinosaurs. If you haven't seen it, I recommend the newly released Netflix sci-fi movie The Last House about a suburban family's fight for survival after aliens invade earth and seal humans inside their houses for hours, days, weeks, months and years. Resident Evil and Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom go on my "must see" list. Enjoy the rest of your month and I'll see you at the start of October, good buddy Alex!
I've picked up two so far! I was at an in-person book event today and a lady mentioned that she wanted to publish a book and while she was trying to get it published, she got scammed and lost money. I told her to join the IWSG and learn and connect. It's a great community to be part of!
Thank you for 15 years of IWSG!
I still haven't seen Spiderman. I need to get there before it's no longer in theaters. My son and his gf went to see The Odyssey last night. I saw that one when it first came out. I haven' heard of the 80s setting, Dino movie. I'm interested!
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