In Death 22: Memory in Death

In Death 22: Memory in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Honestly thought a bit more might come of this with the big slam at the beginning of Trudy being Eve's foster-mother (and not the good kind at that). Especially after her apparent determination to still shake down Roarke after his neat little office meeting with her. Guess it should have been obvious that she'd be the stiff as a result of it all. Neat how Eve managed to piece it all together and finally nail Zana at the end of it. Can't help but feel a little sorry for Bobby while also wishing he'd see sense and not fall into another of Zana's traps at the end of the book. Don't expect to see him again in the series, though I guess nothing is impossible.

The re-appearance of the Big Jack diamonds for Christmas was a fun little twist and recall to the earlier short story in the series. Made me very glad I've been trying to read the series in order so I didn't miss something.

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Alcatraz

Alcatraz (2012)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


What happens when all the criminals previously housed on Alcatraz are loose? An odd team of police and a comic buff team up to track them down before they do too much additional damage to the outside world. Have only seen a few random episodes of this as it airs between House M.D. and Castle, two of our favorite shows. There was some vague interest at first as one of our friends grew up in the lighthouse base near Alcatraz. Sadly can't claim it caught any of our attention and none of us really care or are interested in following the series regularly.

The Mentalist

The Mentalist (2008)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


Supposedly loosely based on the more comedic series, Psych, this series focuses on previous pretending psychic and current civilian expert for the cops, Patrick Jane. Patrick lost his family thanks to the serial killer, Red John. Every episode title from then on is based on something red and ties back to his involvement with that first case both costing his family and bringing him to the cops in the first place. Since then he works with them to solve various other crimes, looking for clues to this first killer who's made the score personal.

In Death 21: Origin in Death

In Death 21: Origin in Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This book hit on a lot of big family topics while staying true to it's futuristic science. Not only are droids popular and common, but now there's the threat of an underground cloning facility and "babies made to order" taking over the population thanks to three rather secretive and advanced doctors. A little surprised the original Wilson came back at the end as the impression was given he may have passed before the cloning technology was advanced enough to create his own duplicates, but not surprised at the multiple Icoves. The questions of maternity and birth placement; rights of living despite origin at the end of the book especially make it a riveting and rather touchy subject matter. The fake "wombs" with the growing embryos especially nearly took me off balance, though I don't know if that's more because of the technology of moral/ethical questions or because of my current pregnant state. Also nice to see Roarke's family come back into the picture as it seemed their time previous was far too short. Still is ultimately, but there's hope for more of them in the future. Also brought up some rather amusing questions and ideas as to Roarke and Eve's future together with possible children - they're in for a wild ride yet.

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In Death 20: Survivor In Death

In Death 20: Survivor In Death by J.D. Robb

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Still loving this series. Was trying to force myself to finish other hard copies that have been in the "to read" pile at home forever, but couldn't do it. In Death had to come back out again before I finished.

This time Eve's past is brought back not just by memories and association, but by the mirror image of bloody young girl found on the scene of her family's murder. I'll admit to sometimes wishing she would stay with Eve and Roarke indefinitely because of how she's come to rely on them despite their awkward moments. Their little talk towards the end of the book when looking at homing her with their friends who had taken in Kevin sums it up nicely however. Kind of disappointed we didn't get to learn if the raid was actually their home base or not, but at least she was able to keep her promise to Nixie. Sort of hoping to see her in future books if she does come to visit, but not expecting it either.

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Remember Me

Remember Me (2010)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


A very down-to-earth story about a lost boy with family problems who doesn't seem to know what to do with himself until a dare brings him the best thing in his life - Ali. Sad that things are finally looking up for him on all avenues when the disaster of 9/11 hits, taking him from those that are just getting close to him again. As with most 9/11 films, it's a bittersweet story in the end.

Racing Stripes

Racing Stripes (2005)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Stripes is an abandoned zebra who begins life convinced he's a horse - thus his desire to be a race horse. Told from the perspective of the animals, there's plenty of laughs in this film with a good ending. If you don't like animals, or talking animals is just too weird for you, you won't like the film. If you've ever gone from the old Mr. Ed films to Dr. Doolittle or any of the others in between, you'll know talking animals can be a riot.

Touch

Touch (2012)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Keifer Sutherland became a quick favorite of mine thanks to 24, so of course I had to check out the premier for his new series. This time he plays a father who is just discovering his autistic son can predict the future; that he is still communicating - just in a very different way than your average son usually does. I can vaguely recall seeing a science fiction movie with a similar premise, but it's been awhile. Decent set up however, so hoping the rest of the series keeps building to make it another hit, even if it won't be nearly as explosive as 24.

Schindler's List

Schindler's List (1993)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


While horrible in the detail and depiction of one of the worst wars in history, it is also touching how Schindler learns human sympathy again and switches from a simple and ruthless business man to the Jew's biggest hope for survival and reprieve in face of the concentration camps. I remember first watching this film in junior high for a school report and the horror it brought to life. It has since been one of my favorite war films for the very truth it portrays.

Save the Last Dance

Save the Last Dance (2001)

My rating: 3.5 of 5 stars


Sara loves dance. Unfortunately she's also convinced her love killed her mother. Now it's up to savvy street dancer and would-be doctor Derek to rekindle her love for dancing while hopefully earning the rest of her heart for himself. Good music, a somewhat sad yet street-smart story, and very real characters make this an enjoyable film through and through.

Rent

Rent (2005)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I remember as a youth my parents were very vague yet very strict that I could never see this show and never should because it was "bad content." While it certainly deals with a lot of hard topics (gay couples, AIDS, and drugs especially), the story itself and the music is beautifully done. There's a reason Seasons of Love is considered one of the top Broadway hits. If you love music and can not let personal squicks about the main content get to you, it's a wonderful piece that is enjoyable every time it's on the screen.

Saint Tail

Saint Tail (1995)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


A cute series, this would fall somewhere between Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura as far as age and theme. Meimi loves magic - she uses it to transform into Saint Tail, the mysterious thief who somehow always ends up having stolen something for good (returning it to it's rightful owner or fixing a problem). She's chased by love interest and detective Asuska Jr. As with most series involving magical girls and transformations, it's somewhat baffling that a simple change of clothes and pulling hair into a ponytail (or often not changing at all in other series) without any masks or other things to change identity can hide who these characters are from their pursuers. One would think it was obvious if you knew the original.

Sailor Moon Stars

Sailor Moon Stars (1996)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Sadly, this season never made it to the U.S. in English format, so the only way you can find it is Japanese import with subtitles. Despite a rather confusing story line with the Star Lights, common misconceptions about Chibi Chibi's origins, and missing the usually present Tuxedo Mask, this is a very enjoyable and somewhat different addition to the Sailor Moon saga. Yes, the world is at risk yet again. Yes, someone is after different individuals that must be saved by the Scouts... again. However the Star Lights add a new and often funny dimension to the series that was previously lacking. Despite missing Tuxedo Mask, Usagi's confusion over Seiya and their friendship is an amusing alternative, as is the protective streak the Outer Senshi have developed for the Princess despite their previous stand-offish behavior. Overall this is probably one of the better season despite the repeated foundation of world danger and power upgrades that runs through every arc in the story.

Sailor Moon The Movie SuperS: Black Dream Hole

Sailor Moon The Movie SuperS: Black Dream Hole (1995)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


It's a little awkward trying to figure out where in the series this movie would fit. According to the title it's part of the SuperS series. However, it uses crisis power (like in S) instead of dream power (in SuperS) to achieve Super Sailor Moon power levels. Yet the rest of the scouts also have their Super Sailor powers, which they only received and learned in SuperS. Also, the Outer Senshi are in this movie, who are unheard of in the SuperS TV season. Similar to the TV series however, Mini Moon is front and center both in danger, in power (she now matches Sailor Moon's SuperS attack rather than having the Crystal Bell), and in the new love boy crush category. They also both have something to do with dreams, which is an interesting tie-in given the different setting and enemies.

Weather Warden 9: Total Eclipse

Weather Warden 9: Total Eclipse by Rachel Caine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


While predictable in some areas, this was overall a well rounded conclusion to the story tying up several loose ends. David will still have to deal with Jo's eventual death as she remains human, but they now have both their human son and Oracle daughter to keep on both sides of the spectrum. Can't say I miss Ashan - he was a pain who needed to go awhile back. Venna is still interesting; kind of wish she'd been the Old Djinn conduit from the start, but that likely would have negated the need for a lot of the series. Lewis replacing Jonathan was a possibility but honestly wasn't looking as likely as imminent demise until the end there. Nice twist to keep him around. Overall, ended nicely.

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Sailor Moon SuperS

Sailor Moon SuperS (1995)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Maybe it's the involvement of Pegasus, but this was the first season to really catch my attention and keep it in this series. Yet another power upgrade and new enemy appears resulting in not only Sailor Moon keeping Super Sailor Soldier status, but the rest of the Scouts also gaining it as well. No mention of the Outer Senshi in this season, despite the dominate roles they played in Sailor Moon S. Mini Moon plays a larger part in this series as it's her dreams and connection to Pegasus that drive the season and ultimately save the day.

Weather Warden 8: Cape Storm

Weather Warden 8: Cape Storm by Rachel Caine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Jo goes through an even harder patch in this book as Big Bob is after her and David, she's losing control and it doesn't look like anyone can save her. Actually it's up to her best friends and new husband to possibly kill her. Glad that seems to have been avoided, yet now they have new problems with Jo and David appearing to be normal humans. Did someone else grab their powers or is there hope to restore them to the lives they know?

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Sailor Moon S The Movie: Hearts In Ice

Sailor Moon S The Movie: Hearts In Ice (1994)

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Luna has her first adventure as a human, playing as Moon Princess Kaguya to make her new human friend's dream come true. Meanwhile the scouts must fight off a different Kaguya who wishes to keep the earth covered in snow. There aren't any glaring differences in story references from this film compared to Sailor Moon R: Promise of the Rose. Can't help but feel a little bad for Luna at the end of the story, but at the same time it's very sweet.

Sailor Moon S

Sailor Moon S (1994)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Small Lady returns as Sailor Mini Moon to help defeat the heart snatchers. We also meet the Outer Senshi - Sailor Uranus, Neptune, Pluto and Saturn. The majority of the season is getting to know Uranus and Neptune while Sailor Moon goes through 3 transformation changes. While the constant upgrades and repetitive battles are somewhat annoying, overall the series has improved.

Weather Warden 7: Gale Force

Weather Warden 7: Gale Force by Rachel Caine

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I remember having a hard time getting into this series at the start, but picking it back up again proved it easy to breeze through this installment. David and Jo are determined to get married. Meanwhile the personal and world-wide danger increases yet again as the Djinn are targeted by an old foe who turns out to not be as dead as expected. This couple has had a very confusing and convoluted ride from the start. Looks like the roller coaster isn't over yet.

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Black London 4: Devil's Business

Black London 4: Devil's Business by Caitlin Kittredge

My rating: 1 of 5 stars


I always have a hard time getting through this series, which is likely why it always ends up on the bottom of my series to catch up on. Made it almost halfway through before I got majorly stalled this time. Some mild amusement added to the mix as I'd forgotten Pete was pregnant and I'm currently pregnant myself. Jack never seems to have things easy and somehow always ends up in more of a fix at the end then he started with, despite trying to get out of everything. At least he seems to have patched things up with Pete and about their daughter. That could have kept degrading real quick what with the rest of the changing info-structure and his new marks. Still curious to see how the series ends, but not enough to bump it up the priority list. Will get to it whenever.

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Midnight in Paris

Midnight in Paris (2011)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


This is a rather convoluted film as characters find themselves deeper in the past at the stroke of midnight and meeting the individuals they themselves admire - wishing that was the time they lived in instead of the present. Interesting way to get feedback on a book and learn that sometimes you just need to appreciate the life you have.

Sailor Moon R The Movie: Promise of the Rose

Sailor Moon R The Movie: Promise of the Rose (1993)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This doesn't exactly follow the history placed by either the TV series or the manga as here we meet Fury, a creature appearing to be the same race as Allen and An from season two. We learn the Fury met Darien and became friends with him while he was in the hospital after his parents accident, supposedly the same time he also met Serena for the first time. As we know from the other media, Serena and Darien met the first time when she threw her balled up junior high test over her shoulder, this obviously doesn't jive. Regardless of the snag in the story line, it's still a cute short story resulting in yet another odd friend as the team fights to bring Darien home and save their planet once again.

Sailor Moon R

Sailor Moon R (1993)

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


Season 2 of this series has two arcs - The Doom Tree & Black Moon. The Doom Tree introduces Allen and An, two beings from another planet who drain the energy of other living creatures for their own survival. The appearance of these two and their energy stealing Doom Tree force the re-awakening of the Sailor Senshi. Last to remember and emerge as his past self, Momaru/Damien ends up trapped in the middle as An and Usagi/Serena compete for his affection. Meanwhile Allen is interested in Usagi as well, much to An's annoyance. Of course in line with the series' themes, love conquers all in the end.

Black Moon introduces Small Lady, Sailor Pluto, and the challenges facing the thirtieth century - Crystal Tokyo. Sailor Moon and Tuxedo Mask are in for a large rough patch in their relationship as visions of this dismal future plague them and they try to determine just why Small Lady is trying to steal the Silver Crystal. Meanwhile Black Moon is trying to kill the little girl and destroy the Senshi's past. Not a great combination for peace and tranquility.

Sailor Moon

Sailor Moon (1992)

My rating: 2.5 of 5 stars


Boy-crazy, ditsy, clumsy, cry-baby, and hopeless when it comes to academics, it doesn't seem possible that this can be the main heroine/princess of the story and find her prince charming. Somehow that's precisely what the story boils down to however. Usagi/Serena is helpless without her friends and would-be boyfriend to help her save the day. She grates on the nerves with her never ending wailing, and yet somehow you can't help but be happy for her when things work out. Sometimes it baffles how such a story can be a huge hit over several age groups, yet other times it's simply enjoyable and brings up good memories of simpler times with friends having a good laugh.