January 31, 2012
The Saddle Club: Adventures at Pine Hollow
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Based on the book series by the same title, this series is easier found in the few clearance DVD releases you can find on the shelves for it. It's not high end or very spectacular in the special effects department, but anyone who loves horses is likely to enjoy the film. Very real experiences and possibilities when dealing with horses and time on the trail.
January 30, 2012
Shall We Dance?
Shall We Dance? (1996)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Japanese adaptation of the old story Shall We Dance. An average working father finds himself with an unexpected and hidden passion for dancing. In the process he also manages to break through the hard shell his teacher portrays, bringing the fun of dance back to her and introducing it to friends and family all at the same time.
Scrapped Princess
Scrapped Princess (2003)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
First found a disc for this series in a clearance bin, and it all snowballed from there. Some amusement as to sharing a name with one of the main characters - first time that's ever happened as my name isn't as common. Despite the fear and chaos predominant in the series, the ending has some rather surprising twists that make it rather amusing and overall enjoyable.
January 29, 2012
Samurai Deeper Kyo
Samurai Deeper Kyo (2002)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An interesting spin on the story of Nobunaga, this tells the tale of Kyo and Kyoshiro - two halves of the same swordsman and Nobunaga's biggest rival. Kyo is known for being a little crazy and his glowing red eyes certainly hint at such. A lethal swordsman, there are plenty of demons to go through, odd past acquaintances and new, stubborn friends to add into the mix. Yuya especially keeps things interesting as she alternates between wanting the bounty on the swordsman and being his only true loyal companion. Nice to see they stick with each other even after the story ends.
January 28, 2012
Dark Swan 4: Shadow Heir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great installment to this series. I'm still thinking Kiyo is beyond annoying and needs to disappear for good. His awkward reveal at the end of the book didn't do much to improve thought in his corner, but did provide a bit of relief as far as the twins go. With Eugenie and Dorian's relationship picking back up again, can't help but hope that things start turning out better and she does tell him. Much better alternative to the kitsune in all honesty. There's nothing about another book in the series
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Full Moon 2: Magic of the Moonlight
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Celeste is driving me a little crazy here. She keeps talking to herself about how important Brandon is and how she loves him, wants to be with him, needs to tell her friends and stop hiding, etc. Yet she never sticks to her guns or does anything. She'll take one mousy step forward, feel bad that it didn't go according to plan, then let her friends, and especially Nash, push her around again. Nash is another set of trouble, especially now that he's also a werewolf and set on Celeste more than ever. Brandon will be facing even more trouble in that department, especially if he does take the cure and can no longer face off against the newest werewolf in town. Not to mention the little detail about the so many people seeing the two of them going at it in the school gym during the dance. Run for cover?
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The Vampire Diaries 00.5: Stefan's Diaries: The Asylum
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
As with most the books in this prequel series, it was a fast read that I just couldn't get as deep in as I did the original series. While it is nice to see the brothers sort of attempt to work with each other again, there is still plenty of antagonism and danger around. Not sure what I think of Katherine being involved with this Samuel - she's sounding more and more like a bit of a tramp the way she keeps hoping from lover to lover and player her men; and not just for meal tickets.
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January 27, 2012
Samurai X: Reflection
Samurai X: Reflection (2001)
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Done in two episodes rather than a full length film like the other Samurai X features, this recaps (and in some cases re-writes) the TV series before continuing on to the main character's ends. The art is very different and the story ultimately strikes as both slow and sad, leaving for a depressing bitterness at the end.
Rurouni Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin (2000)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Three seasons long, this is the TV series that connects with the Samurai X movies, based in the Japan Meiji era. The first season brings the main group together and finishes with the showdown against the Kyoto Oni-Waban Group. The second season takes the team to Kyoto in the fight against Shishio, Kenshin's unofficial successor as man-slayer in the shadows from during the revolution. The third season comparatively is sort of an odd assortment of different adventures that don't really ultimately add up to any one conclusion before the series ends. Regardless of an official ending, it's an enjoyable series with plenty of sword action.
Dark Swan 1: Storm Born 4
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The last chapter in the hardback first volume of the series, this picks up with Aeson's entrance as they lose Jasmine during the rescue attempt and Kiyo comes to the rescue so Eugiene can cross back over to her home world. The truth about the Storm King is finally brought to light and Eugiene faces many more attacks, ending with losing control in her own home as her mother is held hostage by yet another would-be rapist. Just when the story is picking up, there's not another volume in print yet to finish it out.
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Dark Swan 1: Storm Born 3
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
From the summoning of the spirits, this takes us through the first crossing of the group to save Jasmine and the original encounter with Dorian. Jasmine does look like a younger, paler imitation of Eugiene, which is kind of creepy already knowing more about their connection from the books. Dorian comes off as more amiable and sweet natured than I recall from the original book, though it has been awhile. As true with the original story - everyone wants a piece of Odile Dark Swan.
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Dark Swan 1: Storm Born 2
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Picking up during the ice attack, this goes through the first book until Volusian shows up for the first time. A little creepy how he looks more ghoulish and is black, appearing in the dark. Fits the image of him being the back stabbing, angry and vengeful ghost of the bunch. The only parts with Kyo added from the first segment are the fight and the questions about the scratches, so still plenty more on that end of revelations to come.
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Dark Swan 1: Storm Born 1
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Read in the combined volume 1 hardback, this chapter leads up to the beginnings of the ice attack during Kiyo and Eugenie's first night together. A little slow to start off with, but leaves off on the first cliff hanger in the early story.
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January 26, 2012
In Death 19: Visions in Death
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Eve finally spills her past to Peabody and her partner ends up in the line of fire once again, learning first hand some of the pain and terror Eve went through as a child. As luck would have it, this is the turning point to crack both their current case wide open and reveal another fraud lurking in the works. Turns out Eve's initial mistrust of their helpful psychic was better founded than even s he originally thought. Brutal, a little harder to digest in some ways than previous books because of how personal and hideous the damage is, it's also a very warming story as cops and friends pull together, teaching Eve yet another new layer to life.
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January 25, 2012
In Death 18: Divided in Death
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a hard book for Roarke and Eve. As usual though, they somehow come together in the end. Especially had a laugh of Mavis's break down and the baby panic. Totally can understand given my current stage in pregnancy - complete with just feeling the first kicks (upgraded from the light fluttering Mavis mentions in the book). I find the random correlations highly amusing in the midst of all the drama and mystery in the series.
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January 23, 2012
Samurai X: The Motion Picture
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
While there are some tie-ins are reflections to Kenshin's past in this film, it takes place in the same time-span as the TV series and largely focuses on a current conflict which brings Kenshin against another war survivor. As far as the three movies go, not as good as Trust & Betrayal, but put together better than Reflection.
January 22, 2012
Morganville Vampires 4: Feast of Fools
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This series seems to be getting better the further it goes, which is good. Claire especially seems to have grown and changed a lot in the last couple of books. Not sure what I think about Jason coming back in the picture again. Can't say Morley was much of a surprise, though their Texas adventure was definitely far more than what I originally suspected. Amelie's call at the end, while disappointing, was also expected. Nice to leave it off with a sweet Shane/Clair moment though rather than everyone's angst over yet more problems they can't do anything about.
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January 20, 2012
Samurai X: Trust & Betrayal
Samurai X: Trust & Betrayal (1999)
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
This film is the first of 3 in the Samurai X line and the unofficial prequel to the better-known Rurouni Kenshin TV series. This film introduces a young Kenshin, going so far back as to when he first met his sword master and received his new, swordsman name. It follows his experience through the war working as an assassin until the war ends, which is where the TV series picks up. It also explains the infamous X scar on his left cheek. You get some of this information occasionally in flashes or conversation from the series, but not nearly as detailed or chronological. Makes a lot more sense seeing it in the movie.
Goddess Summoning 6: Warrior Rising
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Though this is part of the Goddess Summoning series, and Athena does find love in this book, that is not the main romance. Rather it's between two mortal girls who are pulled back in time to save Achilles and, as a result, his cousin as well. If you thought the gods of myths were the only ones who liked to meddle and change history, you'd be wrong. This book weaves the story of three very meddlesome goddesses. While the subtext and the mythology is the same in this story, it's sort of refreshing to have the main characters both be mortals rather than one being a god/goddess shocking their new love interest with their unnatural powers. Either way, it's still a romance based on a re-written myth.
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January 19, 2012
Steamboy
Steamboy (2004)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This was a gift on the basis that we see commercials for this in practically every animated or animanga film we watch these days yet we've never actually seen this film. While the basic concept was obvious from the commercials and the art, that didn't tell us how we would or wouldn't like the film. While it's interesting and set in an older time period when steam is the new invention to power machines, it doesn't do much to hold the audience's interest unless that's your cup of tea to begin with. As it isn't either of ours, it wasn't a huge thriller. Still glad we can now say we've seen it, but that's about it.
January 18, 2012
War Horse
War Horse (2011)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
More mild than the typical war story, but also not as focused on the animal as most traditional horse films, this was an interesting combination of the two. Joey is a young thoroughbred who finds a good home only to be shipped off to war. He earns the title "war horse" for his miraculous survival and return to his original owner. This is one thoroughbred that proves himself against the odds time and time again, winning the hearts of each of his handlers. This little horse proves one thing to the equine world - you don't have to be a draft horse to pull your own weight.
Goddess Summoning 5: Goddess of Love
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is sort of a two-in-one as both Vulcan and Venus find their matches. It always seems to take the aid of another for the situation to work out satisfactory, but the end result is still a happy love story with a joyful conclusion. Interesting that Vulcan's limp follows him back into the mortal world. On the other hand, his experience due to that limp was what made him Pea's perfect match to begin with.
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January 16, 2012
The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid (1992)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I remember loving this series as a child and constantly renting some of the earlier episodes on VHS, especially Stormy. Big surprise a mermaid and a seahorse would end up being my favorite episode.
Mortal Instruments 4.1: Postcards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This little series of postcards is overall a light read and definitely giggle worthy as it's more than a little amusing to watch these characters banter back and forth via mail. Easy to see such a conversation actually taking place when knowing these characters.
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Infernal Device 1.6: Deleted Scene
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
This short snippet is the beginnings of a conversation about Jessamine as she leaves Nate and Tess to find Sophie. Nate, taking an interest in Jessamine from the start, and Tess trying to be polite while not really having enjoyed Jess's company.
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Infernal Devices 1.5: Blackfriars Bridge
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
One of the short deleted scenes from the book all included on the same page, it's unfortunately too short to get much detail from. Jem goes off on a little tangent about things he is outside of a Shadowhunter and the places he's been. Specifically he talks about his time in China and what happened with Britain during the Opium Wars.
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Mortal Instruments 1.3: Greenhouse Scene [Jace's PoV]
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Now this is a sweet and more sensitive piece from Jace's point of view. Kind of feel sorry for him the way he keeps getting interrupted. Lots of emotional and great internal musings in this pieces. Not to mention the pretty fan art attached at the end.
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January 15, 2012
Infernal Devices 1.2: Will & Tessa Escaping From The Dark House
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Will comes across as rather judgmental, rude, and condescending in this snippet. Going from an unknown location like the Dark House to a harrowing carriage ride through frightening streets with someone like Will picking on you can't be a lot of fun. Sort of makes you feel sorry for Tess in the small bit that you get out of it. At least she does have a spine against Will from the get go and will snap right back at him.
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Mortal Instruments 5.1: Deleted Scene
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
In interesting Izzy/Simon interlude, but otherwise more of a teaser than anything, especially with the random author deletion comment in the middle. Apparently something would be given away or was kept aside from the book. Interrupts the reading of this piece, but also leaves you wondering just what is up with Jace in the full copy.
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Infernal Devices 1.1: On The Bridge
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
A little introspective piece between Will and Jem discussing love and the wheel of life as they wait for a demon to show for a fight. Of course just when Will is enjoying where the conversation is going, the fight begins.
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Infernal Devices 2.1: Deleted Scene
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
I rather like the scene between Tess and Will in the infirmary. Somehow I doubt that would have happened if Jem had drugged her again. Not sure what to make of Jessie and Magnus at the end of the scene, but it does raise questions.
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Mortal Instruments 3.1: Deleted First Chapter
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Between the added narrative and the authors notes there is a lot of detail in this one chapter that is either missing in the book or does not add up until much later. It's always nice to get a deeper look inside a character. As always Jace and Clary's dynamics are as volatile as ever.
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Mortal Instruments 3.2: Simon Meets Aline & Sebastian
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
This does make Jace come across as he's been plotting more than in the book. About his only saving grace is the fact that it was honestly done for Clary and the odd little quip about last names being better than just "Vampire." Lucky for Simon he doesn't burn in the sun like other vampires would.
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Mortal Instruments 3.3: Ragnor Fell's Cottage
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
I never really did like Sebastian, so having Magnus freeze him in time is rather amusing. A little spooky with the glamoured house and glowing eyes in the dark, but still overall laughable.
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Mortal Instruments 3.8: Deleted Scene
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
A very short little piece where Luke is the one seen grieving for Valentine the most rather than Jace by himself. The ending still needed more beside this, so I'm glad it was changed, though it's also nice to get a glimpse of what the original Circle may have seen or felt that drew them to Valentine in the first place.
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Mortal Instruments 3.5: Manor House [Jace's PoV]
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Maybe it's because I read this after reading 3.4, but it didn't strike me as hot as everyone else seemed to think it was. Yes it's till as racy as the series ever allows, and a little more given there are added details in it that are not in the final, but a lot of those details are already shared via Clary in version 3.4. Still, it's always nice to get something from Jace's perspective for a change.
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January 14, 2012
My Little Pony: The Princess Promenade
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Done in second generation pony style, this is the tale of Wisteria planning the annual Princess Promenade before falling under the castle and being declared a princess herself by the newly awakened Spike. The breezies play a big role in getting things ready for the party and becoming Wisteria's ladies in waiting. There's something about mini-ponies with antlers that is just a little more odd than usual.
My Little Pony Tales
My Little Pony Tales (1992)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The original series continues with the first generation artwork and new ponies as the pony adventures continue. There are plenty of new creatures, including the Princess Ponies to add to the mix. It's always interesting to see fun tales from the perspective of four hooves.
My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
The third generation of MLP art is here with the new re-launch of the series. The characters have been re-made once again, and not all in the original images. Still, friendship is the name of the game and is obviously highlighted this time around with Twilight's daily "friendship reports" to the princess. Can't say it'll ever outshine the original for me, but it is still a cute pony adventure.
January 13, 2012
Mortal Instruments 2.3: Deleted Scene
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Understandable why the extended version was cut from the book as the same idea is reached with the shorter version, leaving more room for other things that couldn't be cut or edited. The family loyalty is especially nice to see in face of the Inquisitor's constant badgering and belittling. Interesting how it comes out that the reason she's so passionate about "the Law" is in reality because the parties involved in the matter are the same ones who were involved in Valentine's Circle and the death of her own son. Even those who claim to enforce the Law can never claim to be impartial in doing so completely; not if they're really honest.
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Infernal Devices 1.4: Of Loss
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I must admit that these characters seem pale to me after Clary and Jace from the sequel series, Mortal Instruments. Still, similar to the original pair, Tess and Will have an unknown and unbreakable attraction to them despite the boy's bad history and attitude. Tess is so focused on manners and what is right though, that it's a wonder she never sees through the facade completely or seems to admit to herself what it is she really wants. Make them pair of them rather frustrating.
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Mortal Instruments 3.7: Jocelyn's Story
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A rather eerie and detailed narration of events leading up to Jonathan, Jace, and Clary's own birth, as well as Jocelyn's relationship with both Valentine and Luke. Interesting how something so obvious to some people can complete escape others. Jocelyn's own fear seems to be a running underlying key as she speeds through this story. Rather clipped for how much information is in it, but then it is still a lot to take in. Largely why it was shortened and edited into a different form that is found in the book itself.
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Mortal Instruments 3.4: Manor House
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A lovely bit of fluff between Clary and Jace up until that last line. These two dance around each other so much. Don't expect full out romance given it's a young adult book, though on the other hand it skirts so close to it that sometimes you're left wondering and still wanting more. The confusion and games these two have to jump through definitely leave a mark.
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Mortal Instruments 2.1: Kissed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It's a little odd to see Magnus setting up a first date with Alec in this one after him playing the elderly friend and nearly father figure for Will in the Infernal Devices. Regardless of age, this is a very cute piece highlighting Alec and Magnus relationship and their individual quirks under the surface. These two certainly make a rather interesting and dynamic pair.
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Mortal Instruments 2.2: Because it is Bitter
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Prime example of how awkward and unusual things were between Jace and Clary. Already thought their visit with the Fae was strained and didn't turn out very well from the book. This just seems to be another perspective on that same nightmare. Sometimes wanting what it seems you can't have can be a very bitter pill to swallow.
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Mortal Instruments 3.6: Jace's Letter to Clary
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In some ways this almost seems too sweet to be Jace, but we know from what we do get of his internal musings and actions that it is. Almost bitterly sweet, and a little amusing reading it now and knowing how the original story ends. Kind of feel sorry for him and definitely can't help but hope he gets the better end of things through and through.
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Mortal Instruments 1.1: Deleted Prologue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It's nice to get a glimpse inside Jace for a change. He's always so tortured and complex; this sets up his mind set and personality very well for the main book. Really kind of wish it had been included as it takes a long time to work through Jace's layers to get any hint of this at all.
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January 12, 2012
Black Dagger Brotherhood: Slices of Life: Deleted Scenes
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
Found on Ward's website, this is a short piece from Dark Lover about Billy joining the Society and becoming a lesser. A little creepy and not as entertaining as the Brotherhood at all. Must admit, it's the vampires that make this book come to life.
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The Vampire Diaries 0.1: Matt & Elena: First Date
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While I never was a big Matt/Elena fan, this is an adorable snippet you can't help but laugh at. It's very realistic and believable. Awkward and yet honestly enjoyable all at the same time. If nothing else, you can count on good old reliable Matt when it comes to the heart of the matter.
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Night World 10.1: Thicker Than Water
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Set somewhere before or during Strange Fate, which sadly has not yet been released. The story bring Rashel from The Chosen together with Raksha from Witchlight for a rather remarkable discovery - the human vampire hunter and the werepanther are twins. Raksha and her soulmate were the main attraction in the book leading up to Strange Fate, which makes this fit rather snugly with what little is currently known of all the characters while still wondering what happens during the coming Apocalypse. Would be nice if we could finally get the full book and see more of this development.
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Night World 7.1: Jez and Morgead's Night Out
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
This is technically a prequel to book seven, Huntress. As each book in the series is based on different characters though, it doesn't really fit as a "6.5" to put it between Hannah and Jez's stories. Here Jez appears to believe she is the same as the other vampires in her gang, just with maybe a little more of a conscious to go with it. She and Morgead still toss leadership back and forth, those this time said toss is the result of an outright challenge that nearly kills them both. Not the best way to end up with your oldest friend. They both also reek of a lot of denial in this little snippet. At least Jez admits to herself that she's "too young" to admit certain things yet, otherwise it might be tempting to smack her for some of the stupid things she thinks and does. These two definitely have a more dynamic and complex relationship.
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Night World 2.5: Those Who Favor Fire
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
On the one hand, this short story finally bring Mary-Lynnette and Ash together in a way the book left off achingly shy of. On the other hand, Ash is so frantic and not himself in this short that it's almost surreal. Glad he met his goals in his amends and finally went after Mary-Lynnette, but also once again left hanging where there is no real conclusion for the desperate soulmates. They just can't seem to get a break.
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The Vampire Diaries 1.5: After Hours
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an adorable little piece about Damon's first meeting with Bonnie, unknown in the original series and never mentioned later on as she was obviously forced to forget the experience. It does make the "little redbird" nickname make a bit more sense though, as well as the constant flirting back and forth with Bonnie throughout the series. Can't help but feel a little sorry for her as she is one of the group who always seems to end up alone, between boys she's interested in and yet can never seem to have despite occasional mixed signals hinting at common interest. Hopefully something will eventually work out for Damon's little bird.
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The Vampire Diaries 6.1: The Return: Tumbleweeds
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
There's so much tension between these two that it's a miracle they don't self-destruct sometimes. Damon is as impossible and vampiric as ever while still trying to play his own warped game to win Elena and pretend he's what he thinks she wants him to be. Interesting how his internal dialogue highlights a lot of the same jealousy brought to light in Phantom, which I just recently finished reading. There are times when you can't help but love Damon, and others where he really deserve a quick kick to knock him back in line.
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The Vampire Diaries 0.2: Matt & Elena: 10th Date On Wickery Pond
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Being more a fan of the Salvatores with Elena, I wasn't much into the mushy parts of Matt/Elena's date. Curious if Uncle Joe was the one who returned their money at the end and the ghost that made Bonnie faint. Also interesting that Caroline seems like more a part of their group in this snippet rather than the spiteful competitor she plays in the original series. It seems Wickery is an area that should just be avoided by this cast.
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The Vampire Diaries 4.9: The Return: Elena's Christmas
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Partially think I should have found this one over the holidays, but as it's a Christmas story not set during Christmas, it's just sweet and a little amusing. Damon up to his usual antics, Bonnie getting yet another kiss. Matt is rather amusing in all his up-right innocence wanting a kiss under the mistletoe. Elena is sweet this time in her version of kissing Damon, which is a nice change from her seeming like she's playing the brothers back and forth. Kind of surprised Damon went after Meredith, but then he is Damon. Overall just a cute little bit of fluff.
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The Vampire Diaries 6.2: The Return: Dinner Disaster
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
This little short is rather horrific and yet oddly funny at the same time. Must admit to being rather glad it wasn't in the final book, but I can see why it's still shared online all the same. Seems there are a plethora of reasons Bonnie should get kisses from Damon lately.
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Goddess Summoning 2: Goddess of Spring
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It's a nice twist the way Cast weaves old mythology in with a modern day romance. This is definitely set in the modern day as well, with references to cell phones and 9/11. Lina is easy to like with her determination and way with animals. Being an animal lover myself, I found it adorable the way Orion and Cerebus were with her. Hades was rather complex and foolish on multiple occasions, but you also had to know he'd come around given the themes for this series. She's lucky Orion didn't knock her right off her skates towards the end, which is a rather amusing picture on it's own. Overall, a very enjoyable addition to the series.
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January 11, 2012
The Vampire Diaries 8: The Hunters: Phantom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I've always had a fondness for Damon, so very glad to see him back again. I was torn on how I felt about The Return. So far I am liking The Hunters more. Still not enough to outrank the original series for me, but still a great start to a new installment for the series. It's especially good to see real progress between Stefan and Damon in this book. They've tip-toed around everything for so long that in some ways this jealousy phantasm was the best thing that could have happened to them. Elena has always driven me a little crazy the way she played with both Stefan and Damon. There's some understanding now, but I wonder how long that will last realistically. Definitely excited for the next book on this one.
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January 10, 2012
The Adventures of Tintin
The Adventures of Tintin (2011)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was as childhood favorite of my husband's and his brother, so naturally we had to see the movie. It's a miracle they manage to live through this strange adventure as it seems anything that can go wrong, will. It takes a very strange twist of luck and some determined sleuthing to solve the age old mystery of the Unicorn. Unfortunately despite the captain remembering his family's history and capturing the main culprits from the beginning of the film, we're still left wondering if they ever do find the rest of the treasure thanks to the last elusive clue found at the end of the movie. Not the most satisfying of endings, but easy to see where the series might go on from there.
January 8, 2012
The Vampire Diaries 00.4: Stefan's Diaries: The Ripper
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
This is one series that I seem to be following more because I've read everything else and loosely follow the TV adaptation, which is what this spin-off is based on. Still can't say I like this version of the Salvatore brothers better than the originals, though I do like getting some kind of back story and interaction on the two of them prior to Elena's time. Originally thought the story related to Stefan's time as The Ripper given the references to that in the most reason season of the TV series. Somewhat surprised to find it was in relation to "Jack the Ripper" legends instead - even more amusing as that was recently brought up in a recent In Death book I read. The brothers often drive me crazy with their whole "I hate you but I'll keep saving you anyways" game, but at the same time I have to admit it lays the ground work for what you see in the original series anyways.
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January 7, 2012
Kyo Kara Maoh!
Kyou Kara Maoh! (2004)
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While perhaps common it's ideas of demons vs. humans and the main story line taking place in another world, it's rather unique in it's approach on the subject and it's characters. Yuuri and Wolfram especially make a rather dynamic and interesting pair. The more I watch it, the more I like Yozak and can't decide if I like Conrad or if I think he's too nice - something which isn't helped by the box arc. The lack of resolution at the end of the series (especially in regards to Yuuri and Wolfram) is especially frustrating with how the series currently stands. While the arcs are somewhat repetitive (trouble = summon Yuuri to the alternate world = Yuuri needs to be saved = Yuuri transforms and saves the day), the comedy and constant drama between characters keeps it light hearted and amusing.
January 6, 2012
My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas
My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Another cute addition to the MLP series, this one is slightly disappointing as it's mostly new ponies, none of the originals are named. There is also the fact that while there are plenty of ponies and pegasuses, there are no baby ponies, unicorns, or seaponies. It's also interesting that Star Catcher plays a main part in Ponyville's Christmas celebrations, yet in the bonus episode she lives on Butterfly Island and her existence is supposed to be a secret to all the other ponies save Skywishes. Doesn't make it seem like the two should be on the same disc.
My Little Pony: The Movie
My Little Pony: The Movie (1986)
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
If you like singing and ponies, you'll love the My Little Pony series. Most of the series is done in short episodes aired on TV. This is the first segment released as an actual movie. It also explains the relocation from Dream Castle to Paradise Estate, which is far more common in the TV series. Suitable for any age group, this is one cute show you won't have to worry about leaving on the TV.
House of Night 9: Destined
My rating: 1 of 5 stars
I've become rather annoyed by this series, yet I feel like I have to keep reading to finish it now that I'm this far in it. The references to True Blood, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter all seemed redundant, repetitive, or useless. The reference to My Little Pony just earned an eye roll given I've been on a MLP kick off and on for several days now. The fact that so many outside series have to be brought in to supposedly make the overwhelming narrative and internal dialogue seem interesting is just sad. Aurox's spirit being Heath's is also redundant and obvious long before it's announced in the book. About the only thing interesting is sadly Dragon's revival and Kalona's decision at the end of the book. All I can say regarding Thanatos and forcing the High Council to act is "about time!"
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Coach Carter
Coach Carter (2005)
My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars
Based on a true story, this tells how Ken Carter goes from sporting goods store owner to successful basketball coach improving the lives and educations of his players while also improving his team's overall performance by enforcing a strict regime of practice, discipline, and school grades.
Cinderella II: Dreams Come True
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Rather than a full length film, this is comprised of three short stories told by the mice during story time with the fairy godmother. While they are cute stories, the art and story lines all reflect that it is a rushed sequel release directly to DVD and does not take the time and attention to detail that a full Disney film is expected to have. Still, if you want something cute and safe for your family to watch, this fits the bill, especially if you happen to be a Disney or Cinderella fan on top of it.
Constantine
Constantine (2005)
My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Not much in the way of story line here. Constantine has technically died once as a result of his ability to see those walking in human skin who don't belong on earth. Now he fights to keep them off the earth and save his own soul, already condemned from his previous suicide attempt. Doubt the lung cancer helps in that equation. For a film about demons and angels, I didn't find it to be nearly as frightening as expected after all the hype and ratings.
January 5, 2012
Infernal Devices 2: Clockwork Prince
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A decent installment in the series, I can't help feeling something is going to come back and bite Tess, Jem, and Will now with the engagement. It seemed clear from book one that Tess and Will would be the main pair, yet it's managed to go the opposite way and risk breaking Will completely. I can't say Jessie was any huge surprise, though she was rather disappointing. I actually really like Gideon and look forward to seeing more of him in book three. Hopefully they will find some more concrete answers while chasing down Mortmain.
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January 4, 2012
My Little Pony
My Little Pony (1984)
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
While not the highest expectation in art given it was a children's TV show and rather old at that, this is a cute series that I have very fond memories of. There are many different types of ponies from Paradise Estate, Flutter Valley, and all the places in between. The TV series brings these cute children's toys to life with songs and messages of friendship as the ponies team up with each other and various other friends depending on what situation they face next.
In Death 17.5: Remember When
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It's been awhile since I read one of her books under Nora Roberts as I've focused largely on the In Death series since starting it last year. I read most all of her Nora Roberts books I could get my hands on years ago, then ended up not following actively any more as I was busy with college, followed by wedding plans and everything else life throws at you. This was a good draw in back to Robert's own style while still keeping with her mystery series under Robb.
The first half is done in traditional Roberts romance bringing together a con's daughter and a private investigator in a rather unusual manner. The second half is under Robb, bringing in main characters Eve and Roarke to solve the remainder of the P.I.'s investigation as it now links to Eve's current murder case. Both stories are very engaging and entertaining. I'm glad that both are included in the book and the story is concluded with the In Death portion. The doubtful conclusion at the end of the first half is probably the only part that would have driven me nuts if it had been a stand-alone.
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January 3, 2012
Mission: Impossible IV [Ghost Protocol]
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
An interesting installment, but not my favorite of the series. It follows tradition with last minute stunts and switches, investigations gone wrong, and as always, impossible missions that somehow get completed. Props for making the series still flow as far as the characters and consistency with the action goes given the gaps between each film. Some of the scenes look like new-tech versions of scenes from previous cases even. They still like fancy cars, heights, and masks.
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