Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance coming soon

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance Movie Poster

A sequel to the original Ghost Rider, starring Nicolas Cage. I am looking forward to this and I imagine my husband will be glued to the screen - he purchased the first movie, if that tells you anything!

Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2012)
PG 13,  Action | Fantasy | Thriller - February 17, 2012 (USA)

Synopsis:

As Johnny Blaze hides out in Eastern Europe, he is called upon to stop the devil, who is trying to take human form.

By day, Johnny is a die-hard stunt rider... but at night, in the presence of evil, he becomes the Ghost Rider, a bounty hunter of rogue demons.
The sequel to the smash-hit comic book adaptation from 2007 that saw Nicolas Cage as a stunt motorcyclist Johnny Blaze who gives up his soul to become a hellblazing vigilante, to fight against power hungry Blackheart, the son of the devil himself. 
This movie picks up eight years after the first film. It's a bit more stripped down and has a darker tone.

Stars:

Nicolas Cage, Ciarán Hinds and Idris Elba

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi2556337689/  Official Movie Trailer

http://www.thespiritofvengeance.com/ Official Movie Site (Warning: you better have high-speed internet access & the latest Adobe Flash, etc. to view this site!)

TRIVIA:

Eva Mendes turned down the option to reprise her role.   
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The Ghost Rider's skull has been redesigned for this sequel. The new skull appears to be black and charred, indicating that the skull is actually on fire as apposed to the clean fleshless skull simply cloaked in fire in the previous film.

Cool Quotes: [from trailer]
Nadya: I'm not afraid of you.
Johnny Blaze: You should be.

"Bag of Bones" thoughts...

"Bag of Bones" movie poster

Taped "Bag of Bones" by Stephen King to watch at my leisure. Since it was a two night mini-series, totaling four hours (packed solid with sleep-inducing commercials), my husband and I didn't manage to stay awake (mainly hubby) to get through all four hours of it. Most likely tonight we will finish the last two hours.

I find it awkward watching Pierce Brosnan in this movie. Perhaps I keep expecting him to act like James Bond...which the character he portrays is nothing like the scene-stealing, mesmerizing 007.

I have not read the actual novel by Stephen King, so I cannot make comparisons. So far (and I still  have another two hours to watch), I'm not 100% loving the mini-series, but not hating it either. Average, I'd say, using many common scare tactics and nothing mind-blowing with the plot. Then again, as I've said before, everything has already been done - movies, books, etc.

I am confused (which doesn't take much) with portions of the storyline, although that is also what keeps me watching to find out what happens next. Definitely mysterious...And what's with Pierce/Mike Noonan kissing 3 different women in like 3 minutes?! OK...so he was dreaming! And let's not forget that two of those women were dead! And did his wife (dead) get pregnant by him or someone else? And what's with the one movie trailer showing the little girl immersed in the lake and her mouth opens and I swear I see fangs?!? Fine...I'll have to hit the Play on my tape tonight to get my answers - at least I better get answers! I despise movies that end with tons of UNanswered questions and new mysteries thrown in our faces as we sit on our couches saying, "Huh?!"

I've read reviews on Internet Movie Database and "Bag of Bones" has been ripped apart with many critical comments. Viewers who read the novel especially were not pleased with changes made to the movie. With the Stephen King name plastered everywhere, people expected better quality. I'm not sure that I'll post on the second half of the movie. We'll see...I don't want to bore you :)

If interested in the official website, click here. (Very interactive, best viewed with high-speed connection.)

"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" (DVD)

Amazon Link

I absolutely LOVED this movie! I don't care if someone says they hated it to my face or thought it was so-so because to me it doesn't matter - (and that is a rare statement from me as I'm always worried about what other people think) I say again - I LOVED "Rise of the Planet of the Apes"!!!

I'm also a huge fan of the entire "Planet of the Apes" movie franchise. Over the summer my husband and I watched all the original movies filmed/created way back starting in 1968. I purchased through Amazon the "Planet of the Apes" Legacy Collection. I'll admit, a few of the movies in between the first one and the last one were a tad weak and even bordering on weird...but we watched and absorbed all the good with the bad.

Link to Amazon for Legacy Collection.

Official Synopsis for "Rise of the Planet of the Apes":
During experiments to find a cure for Alzheimer's disease, a genetically-enhanced chimpanzee uses its greater intelligence to lead other apes to freedom.

Here's the official movie trailer link.

Click HERE for an official movie clip.

From Internet Movie Database:
"Rise of the Planet of the Apes" (2011)
Stars: James Franco, Andy Serkis and Freida Pinto

PG13 - 105 min - Action | Drama | Sci-Fi - August 5, 2011 (USA)

Ratings: 7.7 score out of a 10 from 95,903 voters

Back to my thoughts: It was exciting to see tie-ins to the older movies; an example: the water hose scene -- in the old movie, the human was blasted with the water vs. in this new one, it was the ape. The facial expressions and emotions of the apes (mainly Caesar) completely ripped open my own heart and played with my feelings. Several times I found myself crying. Throughout the movie, I kept making connections to the original films, so anyone who is a major fan and remembers and loves those old movies, will be thrilled watching this new one. Clues or even full-blown explanations are presented about what humans did...what caused the end of life as we know it now. If you can recall important "Planet of the Apes" plot details and the storylines from the old movies, then this new "Rise..." works out perfectly and makes sense. Even if a viewer didn't watch or doesn't remember any of the old movies (which would be a shame, but) they should still enjoy "Rise of the Planet of the Apes" for the engaging plot, the awesome & realistic special effects, of course what it does to mess with your emotions plus realizing what the consequences are when things go terribly wrong with lab experiments.

'Breaking Dawn' shines bright at theaters

Yes, I've read all 4 books in the Twilight Saga, and the Bree Tanner one, and have the Twilight Companion book and purchased the DVDs as they've become available. I congratulate Stephenie Meyer on her success! Oh, and I've also read her other book, 'The Host' which is supposed to be made into a movie, too. And now onto the 'Breaking Dawn' excitement:

'Breaking Dawn - Part 1' is #1 for third box office weekend in a row. Since its Nov. 18 release, it's made $247.3 million, of which that number is increasing as we speak! 

I love trivia! Here's some fun stuff (credits to www.imdb.com):

>According to Bella and Edward's wedding invitations, the address of the Cullen residence is listed as 420 Woodcroft Ave Forks, WA.   
>Kristen Stewart has said in an interview that filming Bella and Edward's honeymoon sex scene was very awkward, and that by the end of the shoot, she didn't even feel like they had just filmed a passionate scene.
>Robert Pattinson went through a strict diet and exercise regime for six months in preparation before filming. He stopped his routine after filming the much-talked-about sex scene.
>Stephenie Meyer, the author, has a cameo role as a wedding guest. She can be seen as Bella walks down the aisle.
>One of the key elements in both the book and the movie was is how Edward tries to distract Bella with activities in order to keep her from thinking about having sex again. In the movie, one of the activities is a game of chess, with both red and white pieces, just like the pieces on the cover of the book.
> Shortly after the credits roll there is an additional scene. (There is no extra scene at the very end of the credits.)
>Edward and Bella are vacationing on Isle Esme and are seen playing chess in broad day light under no cover of trees and Edward is not shown to be sparkling.
 
Taglines: Forever is only the beginning.

Official Movie Trailer
Official Website

Here's a very cool site: http://www.eonline.com/news/vampires  Hollywood's Hottest Undead & Total Twilight coverage. Oops, I need to go back and bookmark that site to indulge my fondness for vampires! (and look for a similar site to entertain my passion for werewolves!)

Author Site Down for a Day

My author site address: www.ginamarielong.com may be down for a day or so as I transfer/redirect the domain name to my blog:  http://www.ginamarielong.blogspot.com . I've tossed out my original author website hosted by Microsoft in favor of using the Blogger site as my permanent author website because of massive changes Microsoft will be enforcing come about February. I've spent the last few days spiffing up the new official author site (copy/pasting, uploading, arranging, trying to figure out the redirecting process, etc.). The blogspot address will still be functional, too. Just wanted to update in case you couldn't access www.ginamarielong.com over the next day or so. Thanks!

"Being Human" on Syfy

"Being Human" - Syfy

"Being Human" on Syfy premieres Season 2 on Monday, January 16 at 8 central.

Initially when Syfy presented the American version of BBC's "Being Human", I was skeptical. In general, I think it's ridiculous to re-create the same story, same characters, etc. Just watch the original "Being Human" on BBC America! Several other shows have been re-done for an American version, which drives me nutty! But I gave it a shot since the genre is right up my alley. And the American version surprised me by offering subtle changes and more obvious alterations and even keeping some of the more specific traits of the characters. Interesting enough that I watched all of Season 1 and am looking forward to Season 2.

Sam Huntington (Josh) is completely the scene stealer. His acting, facial expressions, lines are perfect. He gets a blue ribbon and a plate of cookies.

I felt that watching the Syfy American version was weird, though. I kept trying to remember how things went in the original show and comparing them or expecting those scenes to play out on Syfy, which was not a good thing. It was super distracting as my husband and I questioned the timeline of events or what was "supposed" to happen next. Plus, we'd either be excited with a new twist as compared to the BBC version or the total opposite - actually feeling cheated that something didn't happen the way we anticipated it. And after watching 3 years of BBC, our brains were confused at times trying to separate the two shows from each other.

Don't take me wrong - I do like Syfy's "Being Human"! But...in choosing my favorite between the Syfy and the BBC version, I still prefer the original BBC version of "Being Human". I am worried about its survival  - after all, unless I've lost my mind, which is quite possible, didn't Mitchell get killed off in the season finale? Nooooo (still weeping from such a horrible outcome)!!!

Here's some "Being Human" - Syfy - links for the new trailers (showing full links so you can see where you're "going"):
http://video.syfy.com/shows/being_human/promos_trailers_21/epic-buzzkill--being-human/v1368448

http://video.syfy.com/shows/being_human/promos_trailers_21/temptation-is-a-beast--being-human/v1359646

'Primeval' Season 5 Premiere Saturday-Nov. 12

'Primeval' Season 5 Tonight (11/12/11)

(credits: BBCAmerica.com)

 

Here's the Synopsis for Season 4-Episode 7 to refresh your memory:

When a Terror bird appears during an incursion, the team faces an anomaly that won't lock. Chaos ensues, as a terrified creature struggles to get home. Danny reappears from his journey through the Rift Valley with a warning for the team and suspicions about their new boss. Ethan's secrets are finally revealed as he takes his revenge on Emily and the team.

Season 5-Episode 1 Synopsis:

A deadly burrowing creature brings chaos to a city, forcing the team to chase it around town as they track its underground movements. While attempting to target its nest, things suddenly go terribly wrong and one of the team becomes its next potential victim.

Video Link of Connor in trouble.

I loved this show from the beginning and am excited to see it return for another season! The relationships between characters (especially Connor and Abby) and the background story are awesome. Usually there aren't many episodes per season and before you know it, the show is over for another year. I hope there's some sort of recap at the beginning of the show tonight to remind us how last season ended. From what I researched, BBC America is replaying last season's episodes today, before the new season begins.

"Grimm" Opinion

"Grimm" - Fridays at 9 PM / 8 PM Central on NBC. Watch it. The premiere episode was last Friday but if you're capable of viewing it online, go here: Pilot.

Synopsis (from the Official Site http://www.nbc.com/grimm/):
New drama series inspired by the classic Grimm's Fairy Tales. Portland homicide Detective Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli, "Turn The Beat Around") discovers he is descended from an elite line of criminal profilers known as "Grimms," charged with keeping balance between humanity and the mythological creatures of the world.
As he tries to hide the dangers of his new found calling from his fiancé, Juliette Silverton, (Bitsie Tulloch, "quarterlife"), and his partner, Hank Griffin (Russell Hornsby, "Lincoln Heights"), he becomes ever more entrenched in the ancient rivalries and alliances of the Grimm world.
With help from his confidant, Monroe (Silas Weir Mitchell, "Prison Break"), a reformed Grimm creature himself, Nick must navigate through the forces of a larger-than-life mythology, facing off with Hexenbiests, Blutbads and all manner of ancient evils, including royal lines dating back to the original profilers themselves, The Grimm Brothers. Reggie Lee ("Persons Unknown") and Sasha Roiz ("Caprica") also star.

Here's a trailer for it: "Grimm" - Trailer 

The previews over the last few months caught my attention. I'm already watching many evening shows as it is, and wasn't convinced I would start up another one. I'm so glad I did. Even my husband, who is Mr. Critical, enjoyed it. He gets rather tired of watching all the paranormal/supernatural/fantasy/sci fi TV shows (and movies) that I love. I feared he'd barf at one more in that genre that my curiosity beckoned we at least check out.

It racked up a 7.4 out of a 10 score at www.imdb.com. I think that's pretty impressive. Hopefully it can continue keeping its audience glued to the screen for the ten episodes filmed in this first season (according to IMBD-it shows 10) and keep the ratings up. I'd like to see it get picked up for an additional season.

"Grimm" is produced by the creators of "Angel"...and I'm sure "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" had influence on it, too, which is fabulous with me since I loved those shows! It had the right amount of mystery, suspense, supernatural elements and especially tossed in a perfect dose of humor with the characters and their lines.

For those who DID watch, the following will ring a bell with you. My thoughts:  Will Nick's (David Guintoli) aunt survive? Cool goodies in her trailer that I'm sure we'll discover more about! The werewolf Monroe (Silas Weir Mitchell) is awesome with hilarious creature references and cool lines -definitely a scene stealer! And hearing a werewolf called a Blutbad was a new one for me. Nick's partner, Hank, (Russell Hornsby) didn't seem to stand out or make a big impression with me...I'm sure he'll have his time to shine. Great special effects for a television show - the gal with the gruesome face was terrific. It appears we'll see more of her...if I remember correctly, she met up with a man (or whatever he is!) and their comments indicated Nick needed to disappear...and did I hear something about a reaper? Hmm.

Here's the link to The Grimm Guide of creatures and stories...which I assume as episodes play, more profiles and stories will be posted. So cool!

Jacquelyn Frank's "Adam: Nightwalkers Book 6" Available!

Just finished reading Jacquelyn Frank's latest blog posting and I'm squealing with delight! "ADAM: Nightwalkers Book Six" is now available! As she mentioned, it's been three years since the last Nightwalkers book was released. I've read all of them and loved each one. At the time I discovered Jacquelyn's novels, the first five in the series were released and I was able to read them one right after the other. This is the order in which they should be read: "Jacob", "Gideon", "Elijah", "Damien", "Noah", and the newest "Adam".

According to Jacquelyn, she has worked very hard to keep the plot a secret and doesn't divulge much information. She reminds us of the evil Ruth from previous novels and speaks of Adam as tall, dark and handsome (well, I should hope so!). Also, the spunky vampire Jasmine seems to be part of the storyline.

I cannot wait to get my hands on this latest book - "Adam". And this is one that I will buy the actual printed version to add to my Nightwalkers collection instead of purchasing the ebook.

Yay and congrats Jacquelyn Frank!

Here's her official website:


http://www.jacquelynfrank.com/main.html

 

Paranormal Activity 3 TV trailers

Lately, I've been seeing a heavy showing of the trailer for 'Paranormal Activity 3' (2011) on TV commercials lately. I wonder sometimes when enough is enough. So many movies churn out sequel after sequel and then an occasional prequel - and I'll admit I still end up watching the films in those series. Only a few have I said, "Oh, forget it!" Sometimes the additional movies in the franchises do well and other times they bomb. BUT...this appears to be the prequel to the other two movies and I guarantee you that I'll watch it. To see how everything began...hopefully to understand why the hauntings started in the first place and how the sisters reacted as young girls, should capture my attention.

A particular type of scary scene with the other two 'Paranormal Activity' films that gives me the shivers is when the entity literally grabs a person and moves, drags or throws them. It's one thing to have a ghost but when "something" evil can physically and/or mentally take control of you is terrifying.

No walking outside at night in the dark for me after watching any of the PA movies! Then again, a person doesn't have to be OUTSIDE for spooky things to happen!!

'Paranormal Activity 3' -- Horror | Mystery -  Released in theaters on October 21, 2011 (USA)

 

Synopsis:
In 1988, young sisters Katie and Kristi encounter an invisible entity haunting their home. Although it appears friendly, it turns hostile, tormenting the young girls and their family. A scene near the start of the film, which is based before the second film, features Katie bringing over a box of video tapes to the home of her sister Kristi and after leaving Kristi starts to sort through some of tapes, being filmed by her husband Daniel.

Stars: Katie Featherston, Sprague Grayden and Lauren Bittner

 

Movie trailer