Friday, November 29, 2013

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire - A Shining Sequal With A Larger World Where The Stakes Are Higher!


“Remember who the real enemy is.” - Haymitch Abernathy

The point of dystopia is to paint the landscape and social makeup of an oppressive government and its effect on its citizenry, a genre that has produced plenty of great examples in the last century. For awesome/unprecedented reasons, Suzanne Collins’s The Hunger Games brought renewed life to this gloomy genre, striking a cord with audiences that may not have been felt since The Giver. Depicting such governments makes for a gripping social morality tale and helps reinforce the importance of freedom to its audience. With Catching Fire, this importance is reinforced to a whole new level. The world is larger, the stakes are higher, and the games more treacherous, making Catching Fire one of those rare sequels that outshines its first outing.

Welcome to the 75th annual HUNGER GAMES (this is where I laugh like Caesar Flickerman, but I’ll resist)! Things are different this year, however, as this is a Quarter Quell – which means a special “wrinkle” will be applied to Panam’s favorite sporting event where two kids from each of the 12 districts fight to the death. What kind of change can we expect to the rules this year? As you know, the previous games caused quite a stir. For the first time in the history of the games, we had two victors. As a result, hope is spreading throughout the 12 oppressed districts, and this is making the devious President Snow anxious. He wants Katniss Everdeen dead, along with all the other victors who stand as an “invincible” threat to his regime. The solution is easy: make the previous victors fight to the death! What better way to kill several birds with one dome?

I doubt anyone can argue that Jennifer Lawrence is the pillar that holds this movie together. It would take a master to pull of the complex role of Katniss, but she manages to balance a decent love triangle (if not change the gears abruptly) and tackles being a star while using that fame to stand up for others. At one point in the film, she will look at you, and the look in eyes is sure to send chills down your spine. The supporting cast does its job of, well, supporting Katniss in her journey, Donald Sutherland is cunning and callous, and Philip Seymour Hoffman is a welcomed addition as the new Game Master. The tour of Panam gives us a thorough look at this world and captures a broader (and much needed) glimpse of its people. While much of the film’s pacing is recycled from the first run (which makes sense), there’s enough difference to keep things fresh.

The score by James Newton Howard sings once again, providing a vibrant or subtle tone where appropriate. The visuals are striking (particularly the CGI creatures) and an improvement from the first games (with the help of a larger budget, I’d wager). It would seem that previous complaints of “shaky camera” were taken into account by the new director, as there is little to be found here, providing a smooth and clear experience that didn’t confuse or cause headaches.

As is the nature of adapting a first-person novel into a movie, the internalization of the character is usually lost and difficult to translate. This happens to Katniss in a few places. She does unexpected things, and we see the gears working in her head by the look on her face, but her decisions aren’t always clear. By film’s end, I had an idea of where her resolves lie, but not her heart. Then again, there is the promise of more to come and Katniss may not have made up her mind yet. Fair enough, but I would’ve appreciated a smoother transition to her motivations.

The “Sequel of the Year” award goes to The Hunger Games: Catching Fire – hands down – fulfilling the anticipation of fans everywhere without alienating the casual viewer. Go Catch some Fire! If you didn’t like the first movie, you may find much to like about this one.

Release the Mockingjay!

Cosmic Crullers:

Who's excited to Catch some Fire? What do you like/don't like about series, books or otherwise? Who's ready for the next one?

I'm David, and "The odds are never in our favor ..."

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Michael (Kismet) Offutt: Knight of the Cosmic Table!


Gather round, fair folk of the cosmos, for another seat at the Cosmic Table is about to be filled! You can search all throughout your local galaxy as much as you'd like, but I doubt you will find another author of science fiction of this astronomical caliber. You may know him by his prose on Slipstreams or his blog that opens like a present every time you visit, or by his superhero-like ability to encourage and inspire others through easy and tough times. And speaking of time, it's high time for me to hereby dub thee, Sir Michael Offutt, Knight of the Cosmic Table!

MO: This just got real! Thank you so much, and I feel honored to be part of this esteemed group.

DPK: We're certainly pleased that you will be joining us, Sir Offutt! And I see you brought along a friend (hi, Tomeka!). Wonderful! The more the merrier! I believe the others are setting up the celebration party in the main hanger ... and I'm feel like sneaking a cosmic cruller or twenty before the guests arrive. Won't you join me?

MO: Cosmic Cruller ... If that's the one that's like having your brains smashed out by a slice of lemon wrapped around a large gold brick then yes!

DPK: That's precisely the one - but with a large platinum brick instead. We spared no expense! And no, that does not mean we brought live dinosaurs on board. If you would follow me ...

*opens the main corridor*

You're a sci-fi guy by trade, so tell us, what has drawn you to write this genre over all the others out there? Who are your favorite stellar penmen (besides the Douglas of Adams) who have inspired you?

MO: To paraphrase Ray Bradbury, he said that science fiction is about ideas. Ideas are exciting, they get adrenaline pumping, and one ends up propelled by the energy of the idea itself. Authors who choose to write science fiction are explorers of things that don't exist yet and who doesn't love a great adventure? My favorite writers are: Neil Gaiman, William Gibson, Ray Bradbury, George Orwell, George R.R. Martin, and Margaret Atwood.

Honorable mention: Robert Kirkman.

DPK: Now THAT is a fantastic list! These authors are very good at presenting a sense of wonder, the same kind of wonder I felt when I picked up a copy of Slipstream. Could you tell us how that novel came to be? Any cats harmed in the making of this novel?

MO: I don't know if a cat was harmed because I lost the box somewhere in the Tardis! The Doctor ran off to check on it. That's also where I got the idea, you know. It came up in a conversation with the impossible girl. Do you know her?

http://www.amazon.com/Oculus-Michael-Offutt-ebook/dp/B00A3EYR16/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385528311&sr=8-1&keywords=oculus++michaelDPK: Oh, I do! We've crossed paths on a number of occasions - and between you and me, I think she's quite impossible. I think that's why everyone calls her that ...

What are you working on now?

MO: I am writing the conclusion to my third book. Conclusions are difficult (for me) to write, so I'm taking my time.

DPK: Wise approach. I'm the same way, actually. And I look forward to reading it!

What do you do when you're not writing? Dream of electric sheep?

MO: Oh I spend time watching HGTV and thinking of my dream home. Favorite show is "Love it, or List it." I so need a Designer Hillary in my life when I take the plunge to become a home owner. Designer Hillary is FABULOUS. Oh, and yeah ... I watch a lot of TV. So the usual gamut of sci-fi shows happily eats up my time.

DPK: Even sci-fi enthusiasts need a dose of reality now and then!

*enter the main hanger - dodge confetti*

What's your viewing recommendations?

MO: The thing is, because of Nielsen sweeps, most shows are about to hit their mid-season finales so there will be no original programming until February. However, I give my highest ratings to Breaking Bad, Dr. Who, the Walking Dead, American Horror Story season 3, Sleepy Hollow, the Big Bang Theory, Arrow, and Supernatural. If you like reality television then I'd go with "The Voice" and "Love It, or List It."

DPK: Ooo! I do love me some Walking Dead! They need to get out of the prison, though. I'm way behind on everything else. As soon as there are zero malfunctions on the ship, I'll have time to watch!

One of the things I love about your blog is I can never predict what you're going to talk about, and I must say you've amassed an impressive following. What's your secret to successful blogging?

MO: Thank you for the compliment!

I try to talk about things that I find interesting and hope that there's someone out there that thinks like me. It turns out that a lot of my traffic originates from Google search engine optimization. My actual followers account for less than 5% of my daily page views (I think) with the majority coming from several huge articles I've written that have generated hundreds of thousands of visits.

DPK: ... I think my mind just went kablooey! You're going to have to teach me that magic trick (no pencils allowed, though).

Now that you are a Knight of the Cosmic Table, tell us what it means to be a knight to you, in real life and in the writing community?

MO: For me, a knight takes on a more traditional definition. Someone who is rewarded with such a title lives a life that is worthy of respect and honor, so I feel truly fortunate to be chosen to sit at your illustrious table good sir! You keep some awesome company.

DPK: Yes, well ... each and every one of us at the Cosmic Table are noxiously awaiting us to take our seats. Sir Father Dragon has lit the candles, I see. And Sir Mark (Madman) Koopmans has his special dish of Lucky Spam ready! And here's Lady Morgan, smiling as always!

Is there really ten of us now? My stars! We'll have to add another leaf to this thing if our order gets any bigger!

Now to make it all official. Here's your badge of honor, proof that you are now a member of the Cosmic Table that you may display however you'd like! A most deserved congratulations, Sir Knight! 

MO: The last thing I won was from a Nigerian Prince email. I gotta say, this award is way better.

Thank you so much. :)

*     *     *

Thank you for coming, Michael! You're one of the few great bloggers I've had the privilege to meet in person, and something tells me the world would be righted some if we had more good souls like you!

Now let us be off - there are copious words to vanquish! That and I'm seeing Frozen this morning. Taking The Girl to her first big screening - exciting! And in case I don't see you, have a Happy Thanksgiving!

If you want to check out Michael's blog, click on this portal! Have you checked out Slipstream? What's your current favorite TV show?

I'm David, and this is how "Doomsday" should have ended ...


Sunday, November 24, 2013

Dragon's Friends Day, Release of Dark One's Mistress, A New Cheersfest Button, and the Race to the Finish!


http://fatherdragon.blogspot.com/2013/10/lexa-cains-cover-reveal-challenge.htmlToday and tomorrow, I will be taking part in a special event hosted by the blogosphere's own Father Dragon, who is dedicating his first year of blogging to those who welcomed him and touched his life - I'm honored to be in his list of the best bloggers I know. Come crash the party here!

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Released is a couple weeks back is the first book in the Dark One duology, Dark One's Mistress, by Aldrea Alien (From Goodreads).

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dark%20one%27s%20mistress&sprefix=dark+one%27s+%2Caps&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Adark%20one%27s%20mistress&ajr=2
For centuries, the people have lived under the protection of their so-called Dark Lord. Now, with news of his death reaching the quiet village of Everdark, rumour whispers that his son, Lucias, is hunting for a mistress to beget him an heir.

Clara doesn't put much stock in village gossip, until she finds herself forcibly taken to the Lord's fortress. Escape is not easy. She has no way out and, against a man with magic, little chance of fighting back. But the Lords are still men and the death of Lucias' father is proof that they die just the same. And yet, if Lucias dies heirless, his army will be free to terrorise the land. Such is the goal of Lenora of Ne'ermore, an old enemy and ex-prisoner of the kingdom. She is sending a man to slaughter Lucias and, to ensure there's no chance of an heir, his mistress must die as well.

Caught between regaining her freedom or losing it for the good of the kingdom, Clara struggles to decide her path before certain death breaches the gates.


Congrats on your release, Aldrea! Dark Lords are awesome. Much better than Sith Lords, who have cookies. Dark Lords have fondu!

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I'd like to give a special THANK YOU to Jeremy Hawkins (who happens to be a zombie fan, and my Undead Road MC happens to also be Jeremy, and I almost used the last name Hawkins for Jeremy, in honor of a high school friend of mine - small world - but I digress) for making this awesome Cheersfest button! Feel free to use it if you're participating in the fest or if you simply feel like spreading the word.

December the 9th can't come fast enough!


*     *     *

Update: this is it - the last week of NaNo! I'm 3 chapters/5K words away from completing The Undead Road! If all goes according to plan, I'll have this thing read and edited a couple of times before sending it off to betas. Mingling that with another (big top secret project), my December is going to be a full one. I can't think of a better way to end the year! Best of luck to finishing your NaNos!

Had a change to check out Sir Father Dragon's party? Does Dark One's Mistress sound up your alley? Excited for Cheerfest?

I'm David, and "we're gonna need a bigger ... never mind ..."


Friday, November 22, 2013

Ghostbusters: The Video Game - A Nostalgic Ride That Lets YOU Investigate and Eliminate the Paranormal!


http://www.amazon.com/Ghostbusters-The-Video-Game-Download/dp/B0044DEQ3Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1385086451&sr=8-1&keywords=ghostbuster+the+gameMy earliest memory of any kind of television or movie watching was of a pink and purplish woman, and she was floating next to the tall book- shelves of a public library. She was a scary lady. I had to cover my eyes every time some guy named Ray cried, "Get her!" And so began my dream to be a Paranormal Investigator and Eliminator (in short, a Ghostbuster). It took a few years to realize fact from fiction, and I'll never own an unlicensed particle accelerator in my lifetime, but the idea of catching some ghosts and putting a humorous spin on an otherwise scary theme will stick with me to my grave - and after two movies, I was dying for a third.

No such luck. I would have to settle for the animated equivalent instead for the remainder of my childhood, never to see the old gang back in action, battling ancient demons and bumps in the night.

Then, after many years, rumors of a new story entered our dimension, but it wouldn't be in the form of a movie. Not at all. It would be on the more interactive side of the ethereal. And after all the wait, Ghostbusters 3 turned out to be a video game - and a great looking one, at that! In many ways, they expanded on this universe better than a movie could.
To take this sweetness to another level, the team reunited the original cast with motion capture jumpsuits, with a script written by the original writers, keeping the dialogue and humor consistent with the original material. How original is that?!
And there's more! The story follows our four heroes in an effort to train a new recruit (you) when an anomaly surges through all of Manhattan. Their first captured ghost (Slimmer) escapes and returns to his haunting floors of the Sedgewick Hotel. With my gear on, I couldn't wait to release (not cross) the streams!
I had more than Slimmer to deal with, though. The whole of New York was suddenly overrun by ghosts and ghouls, including StayPuff himself! After a little roasting, we run into a certain Ilyssa Selwyn, the supervisor of the "World of Gozer" exhibit ...

Gozer? Sounds familiar - wasn't that the dude (or chick) that was toasted at the end of the first movie? I'd say that's a big yes! It's not the Gozerian we're dealing with here. No! It's Ivo Shandor, the designer of 55 Central Park West (the apartment of Peter's old flame). His other creations have been activated, ready to bring the ghost world into ours. *gulp*

As for the story, it plays homage to much of what made the original movie great, bringing a full-circle feel to a would-be trilogy. Giving Peter a new interest made things fresh for his lovably unlucky charm. Ray. Egon. Winston. Everyone was in character without missing a beat.

When it comes to visuals, this game has terrifically rich detail, making my graphics card work for its money at times. New York comes to life in a fun environment where everything (almost) can be torched by a particle thrower. Slim tanks and cool gadgets just adds to the awesome factor!


If there's one thing worth harping about, it's the game play. It was fine most of the time, but it was often quite difficult to control whenever non-ectoplasmic creatures attack (and single you out - every time) faster than you can outrun them. I'd rather tackle ghosts, not monsters.

 
I would've enjoyed more variety in the boss battles, too (it seemed like I had to take them all down the same way), but not enough to keep me from enjoying the sights and even crossing into the ghost world for a short time. Ghostbusters: The Video Game covers a lot of ground and answers many questions left unanswered from the original 80's films. Indeed, this game should certainly appeal to the avid ghost fan and the casual gamer alike.

Cosmic Crullers:

And as I understand it, the popularity of this game has reawakened interest in producing another live-action movie, and rumor has it that Jonah Hill and Emma Stone have been offered roles for it - possibly as trainees for a new generation of ghostbusters. Can you imagine these two joining forces? Man, I'd pay good money to see that!

Sweet dreams, my friends! I'll be back next week.

I have to ask, are you a Ghostbusters enthusiast? How do you feel about a possible new movie? Does busting make you feel good?

I'm David, and "that's your cue, killer!"

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

This Video Could Be The Best Mashup (and Tribute) To The Whole of Zombiedom That I have Ever Seen!


If you're still NaNoing, we're 20 days in. That means tunnel vision is likely setting in (unless you're already done ... man, I need to learn how to write that quickly!). For me, I'm so close to the end of The Undead Road, it's eating me alive! And it doesn't help that one of my favorite YouTube channels had this up during my browsing break ...

So ... short post today, guys. Got to keep the momentum going.

If you recognize each character reference, you're a zombie fan!


Got to hand it to the HISHE team. They really know how to parody movies. And it's family friendly, too. Double the awesome points!

Has tunnel vision set in on your NaNoing efforts? How's your progress so far? Have you seen any other cool videos lately?

I'm David, I've got to run to the store - ran out of jerky!

Monday, November 18, 2013

Moonless/Diamonds and Dust Release, New Members, and The 2013 Cheersfest "Roastee" Announcement!


Hello! It's Monday! That means a much-needed announcement must be made about two new fantasy releases! First, Jane Eyre meets Supernatural in Crystal Collier's Moonless, and River Fairchild's first book in the Jewels of Chandra series, Diamonds and Dust, has come (descriptions courtesy of Goodreads). Congratulations to you both!

http://www.amazon.com/Moonless-Crystal-Collier-ebook/dp/B00FADL0A6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1384538629&sr=8-1&keywords=moonless
In the English society of 1768 where women are bred to marry, unattractive Alexia, just sixteen, believes she will end up alone. But on the county doorstep of a neighbor’s estate, she meets a man straight out of her nightmares, one whose blue eyes threaten to consume her whole world—especially later when she discovers him standing over her murdered host in the middle of the night.

Among the many things to change for her that evening are: her physical appearance—from ghastly to breathtaking, an epidemic of night terrors predicting the future, and the blue-eyed man’s unexpected infusion into her life. Not only do his appearances precede tragedies, but they are echoed by the arrival of ravenous, black-robed wraiths on moonless nights.

Unable to decide whether he is one of these monsters or protecting her from them, she uncovers what her father has been concealing: truths about her own identity, about the blue-eyed man, and about love. After an attack close to home, Alexia realizes she cannot keep one foot in her old life and one in this new world. To protect her family she must either be sold into a loveless marriage, or escape with the man of her dreams and risk becoming one of the Soulless.


*     *     *

Magic is real. So is betrayal.

Two heirs. A Kingdom of dust on a troubled world. One might resurrect it. One might destroy it all.

Archaeologist David Alexander investigates the cave where his father disappeared and hurtles into another world, one filled with magic and bizarre creatures. The mad ravings in his father's journals of icemen and dragons may not be fantasies after all.

Convinced his father may still be alive, David begins a treacherous journey to find him and discover a way home. Along the way, he encounters a few unlikely friends. A Dreean warrior, a beautiful thief and a satyr join him as he searches.

David's arrival into this new world sets off an explosive chain reaction of events. Faced with powerful adversaries and few clues, he may not get the chance to rescue his father before disaster strikes, condemning both of them to death. Or worse.


*     *     *

New members continue to file into the starship, it seems! There's plenty of room in here, so please, do make yourselves at home!

*     *     *

I'm now turning the controls over to our 2013 "Cheersfest" host and valiant Knight of the Cosmic Table, Sir Mark (Madman) Koopmans!

*Shoves DPK away from the controls*

Aloha!

“Ever attended a Christmas party where you bump into the one person who was always there for you during the past year. You’d thank them for being such a RockStar, right?”

So began the inaugural CheersFest (aka AlexFest) when our Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh, was roasted and toasted in December 2012. Everyone (including A-Cav) had such a great time that we’ve decided to do it again.

(Tears really big envelope with a flourish…)

*drum roll*

Ladies and gentlemen . . .

The 2013 recipient of "CheersFest" is none other than ...


On his main blog, “Tossing It Out,” Lee describes himself, in part, “as a writer, speaker, entertainer, music lover, collector, husband, father, grandfather, friend, traveler, seeker of truth and wisdom.”

He majored in English while at the University of Tennessee, has blogged since 2008, and currently has six blogs that delve into his diverse mind.

The original brains behind the annual A to Z Challenge, Lee can be counted on to pay it forward and is a well-respected member of the blogging community.

Hosted again by Mark Koopmans, Morgan Shamy, David Powers King, Stephen Tremp and The Ninja Captain himself, CheersFest 2.0 will go LIVE! Dec. 9, 2013.

In order to properly cheer (or roast) Lee, here are four questions for you to answer on CheersFest Day, but please keep the retorts short – (no longer than 20 words each):

· Why did Lee come up with the A-Z Challenge?

· If someone dreams about being a juggler, what does it mean?

· Is a post by Mr. Bird worth two in the bush?

· Who could play Lee in a documentary? (Living or dead.)


In +/- 100 words, (excluding the title) write flash fiction using all these prompts:

· Bird · Juggler · Challenge · Brown Jacket · Tossing

For Bonus Points:

· In +/- 40 words, make a caption for Lee’s Facebook picture! 

As usual, the Very Demanding Rules of CheersFest include:

· Join the Linky List *below*

· Have fun

· Post your 200 (total) word contribution ON Monday, Dec. 9, 2013.

· No, seriously. Have Fun!

 Two winners – chosen by Lee – will each win a prize:

· An autographed color photo of Arlee Bird appearing as the Court Wizard in the World of Fantasy Players. Also included in the first prize pack are an assortment of promotional materials from Lee’s show biz days with a personal letter and a brief history of his entertainment career.

· A personalized graphics design from Jeremy at Being Retro for the winner’s blog (Jeremy will design a header, badge, button, banner, or whatever might appeal to the winner). 

Ready to "roast" this Arlee bird? Sign up at the end of this post!

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Update: there's about 8K left for The Undead Road, and I should easily have that taken care of this week. Other than that, I aim to enjoy my last week of leave with my family and Boy 2. Here's to another fantastic week of writing adventures, my good friends!

What do you think of those new releases? How goes the NaNoing? Be honest - who's excited to roast the Arlee Bird next month?

I'm David, and "welcome to Dauntless ..."



To join the "roastfest" of Arlee Bird, please sign up below!

Friday, November 15, 2013

Uh Oh! I've Been Accused Of Harboring a Ghost Over At Gwen Gardner's Blog! Help Me Out Of The Stocks!


I've really done it this time, guys! Because of my role in The Spirit of Christmas anthology, I've been accused of a rather ludicrous crime!

I wasn't aware that writing about ghosts is a crime, but apparently it is, and Gwen Gardner is keeping me captive - and she's having my trial today! I would very appreciate it if you would head on over that way to defend me and help me out of this big wooden contraption (seriously, I'm getting a crick in my neck!). Until then, I'll have to try and stall for time with my old English wit.

Or you could just stay here, laugh at me, and throw whatever rotten vegetables are sitting at the bottom of your fridge. I'm not really going anywhere, for the time being ...

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Also, on behalf of the McNaughton family, I'm sharing this button in memory of their son, Andrew, who passed away last week. I was proud to participate in an anthology either this year, dedicated to funding his dream of attending college. Our thoughts and our hearts go out to Andrew and his family, and we at The Cosmic Laire salute the bright life he led. Forever a star!

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Time to set the auto pilot for the weekend. Taking a needed NaNoing break by investigating the remnants of per-historic creatures, both for research and enjoying the weather before the snow sets in. Have a great weekend, guys! I look forward to the coming days ahead.

Have you ever been wrongfully accused of something? How did you get out of it? Have you ever been locked in a real stockade?

I'm David, and Angelina Jolie has found herself a set of horns!

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Thor: The Dark World - Fantasy Tropes Abound In This "Mighty" Sequel, Its Thunder Utterly Stolen By Loki!


"Or you'll kill me? Apparently there will be a line." - Loki

There's an ongoing trend I've noticed in recent years, that fans of comic book movies are tired of watching their origin stories. If a popular and iconic character somehow didn't start right, or if their original time on the silver screen is outdated, it's natural to want to give the character new life in a new setting that new audiences can connect with. Plenty were skeptical of Thor before it came out in 2011. It looked odd, hokey, with copious potential for cheese. We were pleasantly surprised, so much that we couldn't wait to see the hammer-hurdling hero in The Avengers. Some might be tired of origin stories, but shouldn't we be more tired of rushed sequels that aim to cash in on fans without appearing to match - or attempt to match - the quality of their predecessors? Thor loses some of his thunder in The Dark World, but there's enough humor and action throughout to distract us from its clumsy plot and overused fantasy tropes.

Two years after Thor met Jane, the great gatekeeper, Heimdall, can no longer see her. Thor learns that a mysterious substance called the Aether has seeped into Jane's body, drawing on her life force and threatening to end her life. This same substance is being sought by the dreaded dark elf, Malekith, who wishes to use it to plunge the universe into an eternal darkness, for no reason. Taking Jane to the dark world will save Asgard and give Thor a chance to destroy the Aether, but only one can get there against Odin's wishes: Loki.

Among the film's finer attributes are elements I wanted to see more of in the first film, and I clearly got my wish: seeing more of Asgard. It's a beautiful setting, and the whole cast of supporting characters (in that world and in ours) are back and looking their best - especially Tom Hiddleston. The enemy has interesting aspects and ship designs that could rival anything in the Star Trek universe. Some clever fighting sequences and a crushing final blow was certainly sweet to witness as well. It's hard to shake a stick at the visual aspects, especially the most epic viking funeral ever seen on the screen.

(And no, I won't say who died - that would be a spoiler).

But in the end, what this sadly boils down to is a lot of unoriginality in this film. Or rather, it takes a slew of old - if not overused - ideas and doesn't try to spin them in a fresh way, something that can be easily overlooked if all you're going for is eye and man candy (no shame in that, right?). This includes the worlds aligning, a one-dimensional villain, and character traits inconsistent from the original. But these are the tip of The Dark World's woes. There's witty lines and good humor, sure, but half of the jokes try too hard. Several fantastic avenues could have been explored that never were, including the anticipated Thor and Sif dynamic. You can't have Sif give Jane a jealous look and forget to resolve that conflict! Most disappointing of all was Thor's metamorphosis from a hammer-wielding hulk with epic, loveable anger issues into a limp, love-sick puppy. Not since Spider-Man 3 have we seen a hero become so mopey.

The absolute best thing about this film is Loki - hands down - who alone holds the consistency stick and is worthy of theater admission. This might as well have been Loki's movie, since he clearly stole Thor's thunder, even when Loki wasn't present in the scene.

He's sly like that.

Thor: The Dark World suffers most from the "let's rush and get this done so we can make loads of money" sequel treatment, sacrificing story for banking on hype - but it's still a likable and cozy fit in the hero movie universe ... and the shallow end of the Marvel canon.

Cosmic Crullers:

If you've seen Thor: The Dark World, what are your thoughts on it? Who's looking forward to the next Marvel adventure?

I'm David, and (I'm sure) he'll find a way to save us all ...


Monday, November 11, 2013

Reveals: Eleanor/Citadels of Fire, and New Members!


Sit back and be excited for two new book cover reveals, both from the local pond of Jolly Fish Press, the first of which is the up and coming YA paranormal, Eleanor, by Johnny Worthen.

"Eleanor is a modest girl, unremarkable but extraordinary, young but old, malleable but fixed. She is scared and confused. She is a liar and a thief. Eleanor is not what she appears to be."

I love a good character that's shrouded in mystery, and that foreboding atmosphere is really calling to me. When it comes out in Spring of 2014, I'll have to check it out. Congratulations on your excellent cover, Johnny!

Up next is Citadels of Fire, the first book in the Kremlins series, also set to release this Spring, 2014!

In a world where power is paid for in blood, no one ever aspires to more than what they were born to, and danger hides in plain sight, Inga, a maid in the imperial Russian palace, must find the courage to break the oppressive chains she’s been bound with since birth. Inga’s life in sixteenth century Russia is bleak until a man she crossed paths with as a child returns to the Kremlin ...

(Read the full synopsis here).

Congrats, L.K. Hill! The cover is stunning, and it's sure to turn up the heat on any shelf it's sitting on!


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Since the last blogfest, we've had some new members join our cosmic crew, and they need welcoming! Please stop by and say hello:


I would also like to give a special salute to all our veterans this day! We at The Laire greatly appreciate your service and sacrifice!

*edit* I have just learned the sad news from the Nick Wilford family, who organized the Overcoming Adversity anthology earlier this year, which I and many bloggers participated in. Their son Andrew passed away over the weekend. The blogging community is now banding together for donations, which can be sent to Kyra Lennon's (Nick's critique partner's) Paypal at kyralennon[at]gmail[dot]com.

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Update: after some editing, I ended up cutting 5K from The Undead Road, but thanks to NaNoing, I wrote another 5K last week to make up for it! There's also some exciting things happening deep within The Cosmic Laire hull, and it's only a matter of time before I can say what that is, exactly. Until then, I have more in store for the blog this week, so you'll want to check back and see what's going on!

See you then!
What do you think of Johnny and L.K.'s covers? What have you been up to this weekend? What about NaNo? Is it treating you well?

I'm David, and sometimes, miracles can happen ...