Laura Eno’s new book, Tempest Child, was released last week! Wow, it was a busy week for books, wasn’t it?
Geof at The Man-Cave is hosting a giveaway – win a gift certificate from Retro Planet!
I also have something special planned for my author friends! Might take me a week or two to organize, but hopefully you guys like it.
Now, TWO movie reviews!!
Take one part E.T., a dash of Jaws, a pinch of Cloverfield and toss in a bit of Stand By Me and you have the ingredients for what I feel is the best movie so far this summer. The best compliment I can give the movie is that it made me feel like a kid again - that wide-eyed sense of wonderment that’s been sorely lacking in many recent films. J.J. Abrams movie is an homage to the great works of Steven Spielberg and he shines in all elements of this film. The true highlight, however, is not the special effects or the action scenes (which are great) it's the cast of relative unknowns who nail every scene. Joel Courtney and Elle Fanning are particularly great and the interplay between them rings completely honest. The film deals with weighty subjects like loss, depression, sadness and pain but balances it all out with friendship, young love and (oh, by the way) an effective monster hunt story. Obviously, I highly recommend it to those who yearn for a bit of nostalgia and childlike wonderment. (But parents, leave the little kids at home!)
College film students trail a man they believe is a poacher, only to discover he’s a troll hunter! This faux cinema verite film doesn’t take itself too seriously. After all, they’re hunting trolls! The creators came up with plausible explanations as to why no one has seen a troll and how the government’s Troll Security System keeps the creatures in control. The effects are good, there are a few laughs, and the scenery beautiful. A unique film from Norway that’s a fun watch!
Anybody else see either film this weekend? Any good previews? Saved me some Hot Tamales?
