The Hollows Graphic Novel 1: Blood Work

The Hollows Graphic Novel 1: Blood Work by Kim Harrison

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Not nearly as engaging as the full novels. Ivy and Rachel also look nothing like imagined from the text and book covers. It is interesting to get more back story on how they met and started working together, but that's about all this little slice has going for it. Some of the characters you wouldn't even have a clue who they were if you have no knowledge from the original books. Overall and comparatively very lacking as a whole.

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Vampire Princess Miyu

Vampire Princess Miyu (1997)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Much more detailed than the original OVA, the TV series follows step-by-step progress with Miyu as she leads a double life as guardian and school friend. A little slow at first in any progression as the two are very definitely divided, eventually her friends become ensnared with the shinma she hunts and the truth comes out. Of course the old time favorite is the set that gives us Larva's own history before he joined with Miyu and proves yet again the strength of their bond. Kind of wish the series concluded with something more definite for the pair, but I suppose the open ending leaves more options and imaginations for the fans to fawn over.

Vampire Princess Miyu OVA

Vampire Princess Miyu OVA (1988)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


An older anime, this is still well made and highly entertaining, even more than some of the more recent additions to the genre. Miyu and Larva are old favorites, so getting more of Miyu's childhood and how Larva became her companion are big draws. This small set also hints a lot more to Miyu's possible futures than the full TV series does. Larva cannot speak in this set save for one brief exchange with another shinma while he is sealed, yet he is still as expressive as ever with his loyalty to Miyu and constant companionship. It's no wonder these two are so popular as a continued pair in the fandom.

Cowboys & Aliens

Cowboys & Aliens (2011)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I'm not typically a very big aliens fan, but of course I love horses and cowboys, so that part made it all the more interesting for me. Some of the scenes with the aliens were rather on the predictable side, but aside from being scary and bleeding green goop, they seemed to be different from any others aliens I'd seen so far. Olivia Wilde was a surprise as we mostly knew her as Thirteen from House M.D. Daniel Craig seemed a little awkward in the saddle using some more common English techniques and spurs. A big contrast to Harrison Ford's more natural seat without spurs. For another rider, it was very obvious who'd spent more time in the saddle and was comfortable being there. My mother-in-law and I got a few laughs out of it comparing notes as she's from Wyoming and I've spent as much time as I could in the saddle since I was 5. Ended up feeling a little bad for Craig's character, Jake, at the end of the film. Overall it was a decent story and well made though. Nice variety and detail all the way through.

The Town

The Town (2010)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Ben Affleck seems to have a permanent frown on his face when he's on screen. Not as high speed or over the edge as seems to be more common in films classified as thrillers. Still plenty of detail and a more intricate story line makes this film more enjoyable without the adrenaline rush. Kind of feel sorry for Claire, but also can't help cheering for Doug just a little as the story progresses.

Vampire Knight

Vampire Knight (2008)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


A favorite that I never get tired of watching. Admittedly I have a difficult time watching the English dub of this series. I'm so used to the Japanese voices in the subbed edition that the English just doesn't sound right. The first season gives a good foundation into the series. Wish more of the manga was finished so they could do another season beyond the first two already out.

Casper

Casper (1995)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

A cute film for any age group. More of a comedy though it does centralize around Halloween. Nothing too in-depth or extravagant here. If you like ghosts, Halloween, and/or some relaxed comedy, you'll enjoy this film. Casper just wants someone to be a friend and not run away simply because he's a ghost. Not all ghosts are scary after all.

Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card

Cardcaptor Sakura: The Sealed Card (2000)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Taking place after the Clow Cards have been transformed into Sakura Cards, Li's return to Japan marks the reveal of Sakura's feelings and their final confrontation with an unknown card to keep the Cards safe. It takes nearly losing everything before Sakura can identify the new Hope card and convince it to rejoin with the rest of the Cards. The risk of losing Li and his memories for good spurs her to finally admit her own feelings. Still very much the innocent and naïve girl she started out as in the series, Sakura is rather cute and clumsy in the grand scheme of things.

Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie

Cardcaptor Sakura: The Movie (1999)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not the best series ever, but it is cute, light, and overall fairly fun. A nice change of pace after some high speed action and gore. This one takes place while the Clow Cards still belong to Clow Reed and the hunt for them continues. Meet Li's family in Hong Kong and Clow's rather obsessed admirer attempting to break her seal and force Clow's hand to rejoin her. Still not fully understanding her own powers, Sakura fumbles with some help to make this phantom see reason and save her friends.

Blood: The Last Vampire

Blood: The Last Vampire (2000)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Honestly not as good as the TV series, which I didn't end up seeing until much later. Better than the live-action film however. It's a little confusing as to where in the original storyline this film would take place. Obviously Red Shield is still active at the point and there are still plenty of vampires to hunt. However, her family and guardian are suspiciously absent from the hunt, leaving us to wonder just where in the story this movie fits in. Not so great if you want it to match up and flow, decent if you want some vampire action and don't care what it's attached to.

Bourne 3: The Bourne Ultimatum

Bourne 3: The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


This is one series that never gets old. Jason Bourne is finally going to get some real answers and some sort of closure. Not only has Treadstone gone down, but so will Blackbriar if he has anything to say about it. It's not just Bourne on his own this time though. He'll get some unexpected help from CIA agents Pamela Landy and Nicky Parsons, both returning characters from previous films who have up prior up close interaction to determine his character for themselves. No definitive answer on Bourne's fate and still open ended for another sequel if the directors ever decided to pick it up again, this is a great movie either by itself or as the third installment of a series.

Bourne 2: The Bourne Supremacy

Bourne 2: The Bourne Supremacy (2004)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


A CIA plot drags Jason back into the world of undercover work and assassins after a hit man takes Maria out of the picture. Bent on finding some answers now more than ever, nightmares won't stop Jason from taking on the government yet again. Only this time, he'll undercover the real traitors while clearing his own name in the process. The CIA doesn't stand a chance against this one rogue agent.

Bourne 1: The Bourne Identity

Bourne 1: The Bourne Identity (2002)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


I love this series. Jason Bourne is unique, complex, and incredible all in one. Honestly a good guy just wanting to do the right thing; he struggles to find out who he was and decide who he will become. Turns out his past isn't all sunshine and roses as the very government he was conditioned to serve is gunning for him. See how real people escape fantastic situations without the ever-popular super powers most series prefer.

In Death 5: Ceremony in Death

In Death 5: Ceremony in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Just can't seem to get enough of this series. I wish I could read them faster, but life has just been too crazy. Not only must Eve solve the growing case of linked murders, but she must clear two fellow cop's names and see through the smoke and mirrors of two local cults to find the hidden answers to her cases. Once again landing in the line of fire herself, it's another close call with the second victim's brother and Roarke to the rescue before the cops arrive.

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Castle in the Sky

Castle in the Sky (1986)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Inspired by Gulliver's Travels, this is a rather fanciful version of a castle in the sky, pirates, and adventure. Laputa is the mysterious city in the sky. Sheena is a lost little girl with a necklace that controls the city. Potsu is adventurer's son, searching for Laputa and stumbling into Sheena's path. Now these two must find their own way to safety as they discover the answers behind Laputa.

The Cat Returns

The Cat Returns (2002)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


Another wonderful film by Studio Ghibli. Doesn't hurt any that it revolves around cats, one my favorite animals. Haru struggles to find her place in life and her own value as an individual. The question is, will she find it as a human, or as a cat? Baron is a rather unique and perhaps a little too perfect character that watchers can't help but admire and love. Another great story with incredible detail and wonderful imagination.

Cool Runnings

Cool Runnings (1993)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Based on a true story, this is one film that is enjoyable every time you turn it on. From Sanka's humor and failure to fit in to Derice's drive and determination, this film has something for everyone. One of Disney's fewer live filmed movies, don't think it's not as good just because it isn't animated. Doesn't matter how old you are; there's no age restriction on this film.

Fantastic Four 2: Rise of the Silver Surfer

Fantastic Four 2: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A little better than the first one as far as story line and special effects went. Still lacking when it came to the Silver Surfer's story, which was disappointing. Almost wish he had his own film to really delve into his character rather than just playing him off the Fantastic Four, but can also see why they did it that way to extend the team's coverage. Rather anti-climatic and different how they chose to take out Galactus. It was a sequel for Fantastic Four, but looked forward to the Silver Surfer's screen time more than theirs.

Fantastic Four

Fantastic Four (2005)

My Rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


Not the best as far as the Marvel films go. The acting and special effects are all pretty much middle ground. Seemed as if they weren't entirely sure how to do some of it. Especially feel bad for Michael Chiklis who has to deal with The Thing's dramatic alterations. The story line with Von Doom seems rather anti-climatic and predictable. Expected a bit more based on how well the others were doing and the details from the comics.

Nemo 1: Finding Nemo

Nemo 1: Finding Nemo (2003)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is just a cute animated film about a father and son, clown fish, and their adventure as Nemo is kidnapped by divers and his father, Marvin, must rely on an amnesiac fish, Dory, to find him. Sharks, sea turtles, pelicans, and an assortment of other water creatures make an appearance as a father learns to let go and a son learns to appreciate what his father has done for him. Overall funny and light as films go. Perfect for any audience or mood.

Vantage Point

Vantage Point (2008)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Pay attention for this one or you won't be able to keep track of it all. Jump from perspective to perspective as this assassination and kidnapping attempt unravels. Undercover agents, newly returning agents, doppelgangers, tourists, press conferences, war, and too many interweaving factors to keep track of. This one hops all over the board and covers a lot of ground for all being based on the same very fast paced events.

Cars 2

Cars 2 (2011)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Still cute and I'm sure fun for kids to watch. Not as good as the first film was though, especially with McQueen's ego coming back into play again. Mater is as clueless as ever and manages to land himself in a heap of trouble, possibly losing his best friend along the way. This is one little tow truck that would have been better off at home.

Harry Potter 8: The Deathly Hallows Part 2

Harry Potter 8: The Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


For a movie adaptation, they did an excellent job keeping with the original story line from the books. Still think the "19 years later" is as awkward in the movie as it was in the books, but again, accurate. Kind of odd to think that they series is officially completed, but they did a good job all around and the film is very enjoyable. Will just have to keep re-watching the discs for more HP goodness from now on.

Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon

Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon (2011)

My rating: 1.5 of 5 stars


This film really does not have much purpose, very much of a story line or originality from the other films. It feels more like filler and a lot of rinse and repeat scenes from the previous films. New girlfriend, no longer in school, not with Bumblebee 24/7. Otherwise, same old, same old. As far as Transformer films go, a big disappointment. I will however be looking for the new Linkin Park song. They always have good singles for these films.

Unleashed

Unleashed [Danny the Dog] (2005)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


Danny the Dog doesn't remember his past. Wearing his collar he is listless and uncaring of his surroundings. When the collar comes off, he's vicious and singularly focused on following his orders. That is, until a hit and run strike against his handler leaves him free on the street, where a piano and two accepting unique individuals help him unravel his past so he can move on to his future. Being a piano player myself, the added tie in of music to the memories is a nice touch. Not completely action, not completely drama, this is a more complex and very interesting story.

Wall-E

Wall-E (2008)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars


Meet Wall-e, an curious, lonely, and rather self-sufficient robot. Apparently they only one of his kind left trying to clean up the mess the world has left behind, he finds himself drawn to a visitor robot named Eve. The few signs of life he's collected back on earth help him bring the missing colonies home after an unexpected trip into outer space. Unwittingly saving the colony, his only real thought at the time is staying with his precious Eve. For a robot, he's really rather expressive and emotional. A cute and entertaining movie for anyone to see.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille (2007)

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stories


This is just and adorable and funny show about an uncommon rat with a unique drive and ability to cook. Falling into the most unusual of circumstances, he finds himself able to help his unlikely human friend as he finally gets what he's always wanted - the freedom to create in the kitchen. More than one opinion will have to change for him to keep his dream job, but he's already bound and determined to see it through. This is one rat that won't give up his dream that easily.

The Departed

The Departed (2006)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


At one point I commented to my husband that this film had a very Hamlet feel to it - everyone ends up dead. He paused for a moment and told me yes, it does indeed follow Hamlet rather closely. Two rather similar individuals are working undercover on opposite sides of a growing conflict. See what happens as their identities are uncovered and each one struggles to be the one to come out alive.

Rush Hour 3

Rush Hour 3 (2007)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Cater and Lee are thrown back together in yet another Rush Hour sequel. This duo is so crazy and off the wall that I often wonder how it is that they make any progress through the films. Carter especially comes off as over the top, balanced out only by Lee's own strict ethics and flailing attempts to keep his odd friend on the right path. If you want some amusing comedy with some action intermixed, then this might be the series for you.

Eastern Promises

Eastern Promises (2007)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


Rather bloody and focusing on the harder street lives. A midwife struggles to help an orphaned child, learning her mother was raped and drugged while underage by Russian gangsters. Now trying to find a good home for the child while keeping her away from her gangster father may entangle her in their world farther than she can break free of.

National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets

National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets (2007)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


Nicholas Cage is back to play treasure hunter Benjamin Franklin Gates. This time it isn't just treasure on the line, but his family's reputation regarding his ancestor's involvement in President Abraham Lincoln's assassination. Figuring out the impossible with an odd assortment of clues most would never think of or would conveniently miss, he finds the lost city of gold thought to have disappeared forever.

Juno

Juno (2007)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A junior in high school, Juno faces an unplanned pregnancy as she comes to terms with her own future, her child's future, and just what her relationships really mean to her. Rather than taking the ever popular abortion route to deal with her "problem," Juno chooses to find a family to adopt her child. Even when the couple runs into problems of their own, she still turns the child over to an older woman who clearly wants a child more than anything. A little close to home in the respect that my own mother was 16 when she had me and I was adopted. The film did earn points taking adoption over abortion in my book.

Idiocracy

Idiocracy (2006)

My rating: 0.5 of 5 stars


I have never seen a film so literally stupid. My husband said I had to see it at least once to understand common references in political threads online, but I honestly can't see how that much blind stupidity is worth the amount of time it takes out of one's life to watch it even once. If "average" is "the smartest in the world" then we're all in for a world of hurt of our creation that can only get worse. That state of affairs is beyond just sad or disturbing. There's no other way to describe it.

Solitary

Solitary (2006)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This is another of those crazy reality TV shows where people are asked to do the impossible. In this series, you are literally in solitary. With only an automated voice to give you instructions and the options to complete or fail the testing conditions. Being the first to quit a challenge guarantees your removal from the competition. Being the last to quit the final challenge wins the game and the prize. It's a wonder these competitors survive mentally after all the hassle they go through here.

D.N. Angel

D.N. Angel (2003)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


Only a couple discs long, this does not really conclude Daisuke and Dark's story, though it is a cute snippet of it. Not surprising as the manga it is based off of is still incomplete. A lighter toned adventure with just enough romance and action in the mix, this in one series I wish they would finish in either of it's forms.

The Devil Wears Prada

The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


All Andrea wants is to be a journalist. Yet somehow she lands herself the position as the top fashion guru's assistant. On call 24/7, her personal life is sinking fast as she tries to find just where she fits in and who the new Andrea really is. This show as plenty of tight spots and humor to keep the tapes rolling. Amusing, entertaining, frustrating, and overall just enjoyable, this is one show that should be on everyone's shelf. Believe it or not, interest in fashion is not crucial for this story.

So You Think You Can Dance

So You Think You Can Dance (2005)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I don't think this hit as big as the many singing competitions you can now find on TV, American Idol being one of the most well known. Still, dancing is one art form that I have always found fascinating and fun. There are some things people can do with their bodies that you just wouldn't think possible or even consider doing until you see it action. Then it's just startling and breathtaking. Sometimes I wish I followed series like this more closely, but I enjoy what I see when I do catch it.

Descendants of Darkness

Descendants of Darkness (2003)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Not as detailed as the original manga, it's always interesting to see the characters come to life on screen. Some random humor and interesting voice overs give these characters their new personalities. The anime itself never seems to reach any set conclusion, which is a little frustrating. Hisoka is the most interesting as he goes from being flat and unemotional to attempting to open up to Tsuzuki in his own hesitant way.

In Death 4: Rapture in Death

In Death 4: Rapture in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Once again, the target is ultimately Eve and the culprit is close to home. Glad we got a little bit of the honeymoon at least. It's amazing the leaps Eve's logic takes to match up the most unlikely of cases. Wasn't sure if Eve would make it to Roarke in time or not in that last scene. Probably better she did since they didn't have a way to counteract the subliminal messages yet. Though if anyone was to shake off the effects it would be that pair. Felt bad for Mavis with her part in this. All she's ever wanted to do was shine and be with her friends, yet these last few books have put her in some bad places. Always interesting to see what happens next with this group.

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D.Gray-man

D.Gray-man (2006)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


One of my favorite anime series, this follows the story of Allen Walker, exorcist, orphan and a rather haunted, driven individual with a unique past. Cursed with the ability to see the akuma possessing those in the living realm, he has a unique ability among exorcists that allows him to see beyond the outside and fight with a measure of surety and confidence that many others don't appreciate. It isn't until his cursed eye is injured that he realizes just how useful it is. Unfortunately the series was paused before it was completed as the manga is still in publication. Hopefully it will be picked up and completed again once the series has concluded.

In Death 3: Immortal in Death

In Death 3: Immortal in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Dallas just can't seem to get a break. This time she must figure out how to do her job while struggling with her own emotional investment regarding those involved, come to terms with her fast approaching wedding, and with her own past memories resurfacing and solidifying stronger than ever. I'll admit, I didn't peg Casto either. Seems the criminal always goes after Dallas directly and, either by her own hand or by the aid of those closest to her, ends up sealing his own fate. Also wondered if maybe the wedding would be delayed with the way the case was going there towards the end. A little rushed in that department, but I suppose it's to be expected with so much focus on the case.

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Dreamer

Dreamer (2005)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Based on a true story, this tells the tale of a family struggling to keep their farm while working the racing ring. On the other side is Sonador, filly thoroughbred race horse with a bad break - in her right foreleg. Not only could this ruin her on the flat, but she's also infertile as well. With no use as a brood mare, either she recovers or she dies, already having hurt the finances of the unlikely struggling family that saved her in the first place. Who would have expected the daughter to be the one to go to bat for Sonador the second time, pushing until this horse has a chance to really come from behind. If you love horses like I do, you'll like this movie. Not as intense or focused on racing as Secretariat or Seabiscuit, this is still a lovely tale.

Elektra

Elektra (2005)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


Taking place sometime after Daredevil, Elektra is now a paid assassin struggling to find her new purpose in her second life. Honestly thought this would have been better if she had gone back to Daredevil rather than this offshoot of her training. Her hit being a mirror image of her own past and training is just a bit cliche. Still as wicked with a weapon as she has been since I first saw her in Alias, this character just didn't feel like it had as much depth. Really wish they would have done more with it in the end.

In Death 2: Glory in Death

In Death 2: Glory in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This series keeps getting better and better. Morse was a creep from the beginning, so it was rather satisfying for him to bite the dust. Thought Roarke made great headway with Eve just getting her to move in officially. Now with that closing bomb shell... yikes. Looking forward to the next story.

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