Well it is now almost time to put 2011 in the rear-view mirror and look ahead to 2012, but before we do let us look back on the year that was 2011 and in this year can be summed up in one word "questioning"
This is the year where people began to question everything and some of the answers they got they didn't like, it started with the tea party, continued through the arab spring and ended with Occupy Wall street. This is the year where people question everything and saw how bad things had got and decided to challenge what was wrong and in some cases they won in others not so much, still this has been a year of questioning and of change, hopefully 2012 will be the year of answers no matter what let us look back on this year as the year questions where asked, and people stood up for change.
Happy new Year everyone
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Robin Hood DVD review
*the following is from viewing of the widescreen edition of the film only
He is a symbol of freedom worldwide, there have been many movie adaptations of the famed outlaw Robin Hood, but in this one starring Kate Blanchett as Maid Marion and Russell Crowe as robin hood, this is one of my favorites.
MAIN FEATURE
In the main movie it is not about how Robin Hood stops the sheriff it is how he gets started, from the crusades with Richard the lion heart in the 12th century crusades, to Nottingham. This is the story before the legend, how did maid Marion and robin meet. Where did he get will, john, friar tuck and the merry men, how does the Sherwood forest play into all of this. These questions are brought to light in this movie and are done very well. You can tell Ridley Scott did some research on the background of the times and the people and it shows throughout the entire movie.
SPECIAL FEATURES
the unrated director cut, which is the one I saw, has no features save both the theatrical release and the unrated directors cut which is well done and shows extra scenes.
NEGATIVES
the special features are few is about the only negative I can see about this film.
FINAL THOUGHTS
this movie is a very well done movie and has a very special place in my heart while it updates the legend it also does it justice by not watering it down or trying to make it politically correct which seems to be happening a lot here lately in hollywood. It would make a great gift for any fan of the century films, or of the legend of Robin hood. But the special features being so few may make you want to look for the blu ray edition.
8 out of ten stars
He is a symbol of freedom worldwide, there have been many movie adaptations of the famed outlaw Robin Hood, but in this one starring Kate Blanchett as Maid Marion and Russell Crowe as robin hood, this is one of my favorites.
MAIN FEATURE
In the main movie it is not about how Robin Hood stops the sheriff it is how he gets started, from the crusades with Richard the lion heart in the 12th century crusades, to Nottingham. This is the story before the legend, how did maid Marion and robin meet. Where did he get will, john, friar tuck and the merry men, how does the Sherwood forest play into all of this. These questions are brought to light in this movie and are done very well. You can tell Ridley Scott did some research on the background of the times and the people and it shows throughout the entire movie.
SPECIAL FEATURES
the unrated director cut, which is the one I saw, has no features save both the theatrical release and the unrated directors cut which is well done and shows extra scenes.
NEGATIVES
the special features are few is about the only negative I can see about this film.
FINAL THOUGHTS
this movie is a very well done movie and has a very special place in my heart while it updates the legend it also does it justice by not watering it down or trying to make it politically correct which seems to be happening a lot here lately in hollywood. It would make a great gift for any fan of the century films, or of the legend of Robin hood. But the special features being so few may make you want to look for the blu ray edition.
8 out of ten stars
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Red Dawn Collectors edition DVD Review
INTRODUCTION
some have called this movie the paranoid fantasy of a nut, others have called it one of the most patriot movies of the 80's. I personally think it is one of the greatest action movies with some cautionary tales even for us today.
MAIN FEATURE
First off the movie itself transferred great to DVD, the sound, the opening, everything is just as i remember it when i first saw it in 1990(i know it came out in 84 but i first saw it in 1990)the opening sequence is just as powerful today as it was back then, and the ending still hits me in the gut. the characters, setting, and acting are as relevant today as they were in 1990 or 1984 and the locations could be anywhere and make you wonder how close this came to being real.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The special feature are also great the making of red dawn(red Dawn rising) is excellent, and the other excellent feature was the making of the red menace feature which told how they made the soviet tanks and vehicles, also the ww3 come to town feature was also good and added alot to the history of the movie, the training feature was stuff i had seen before in other movies but it was ok. the inclusion of the theatrical trailer was an added bonus for someone who like me saw it late when i was a kid.
NEGATIVES
the only really negative things i can say is this first off they could have done more with the extra features like add in something about about the possibility of such an event or thoughts from people today on the movie, the other thing is that there will be some people who cannot take the politics out of the film and will be horrified by the message it makes.
ENDING and FINAL THOUGHTS
in closing if you are the kind of person who sees politics in every movie or you dont like the second amendment then steer clear of this movie, but if you loved the original or are new to the movie and bought it cause the new remake is coming out in 2012 and you wanted to see the original then you will enjoy one great movie.
9 out of 10 stars
some have called this movie the paranoid fantasy of a nut, others have called it one of the most patriot movies of the 80's. I personally think it is one of the greatest action movies with some cautionary tales even for us today.
MAIN FEATURE
First off the movie itself transferred great to DVD, the sound, the opening, everything is just as i remember it when i first saw it in 1990(i know it came out in 84 but i first saw it in 1990)the opening sequence is just as powerful today as it was back then, and the ending still hits me in the gut. the characters, setting, and acting are as relevant today as they were in 1990 or 1984 and the locations could be anywhere and make you wonder how close this came to being real.
SPECIAL FEATURES
The special feature are also great the making of red dawn(red Dawn rising) is excellent, and the other excellent feature was the making of the red menace feature which told how they made the soviet tanks and vehicles, also the ww3 come to town feature was also good and added alot to the history of the movie, the training feature was stuff i had seen before in other movies but it was ok. the inclusion of the theatrical trailer was an added bonus for someone who like me saw it late when i was a kid.
NEGATIVES
the only really negative things i can say is this first off they could have done more with the extra features like add in something about about the possibility of such an event or thoughts from people today on the movie, the other thing is that there will be some people who cannot take the politics out of the film and will be horrified by the message it makes.
ENDING and FINAL THOUGHTS
in closing if you are the kind of person who sees politics in every movie or you dont like the second amendment then steer clear of this movie, but if you loved the original or are new to the movie and bought it cause the new remake is coming out in 2012 and you wanted to see the original then you will enjoy one great movie.
9 out of 10 stars
Friday, December 16, 2011
Video Games Vs Tv
Hello all just recently I got the Video Game Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 and then I heard that the game got 400 million in it's first day. Let me say this number is incredible, but it begs the question why would so many people by a video game, I think one of the main reason why Video games are so popular now is that TV is no longer entertaining to us. That the programs on Tv are boring and lack what we like in shows. Here is some reasons why I think TV is losing to Video Games
1st off Tv is doing the same old reality stuff over and over again.....
TV continues to do the sames shows over and over again, how many times have you seen the same type of reality show on another channel season after season, or the same remake season after season. so why do they do it because it is cheaper, where as video games are always trying to push the envelope and try new things.
2nd TV is scared where as Video Games are not
Another reason is that Tv has become scared to take on certain subject matter that is very much a part of our daily lives. Where as Video games has no fear and is not afraid to take chance and sometimes they get in trouble for some of the things they do but still the take the chance of doing it.
3rd Tv Producers care about money video game care about expanding
It seems to me at least that the people who make the Tv programs do not care about getting in more viewers they care about making the fans happy where the video game makers want to do both and sometimes they dont do so well but a lot of the times they keep the perfect balance.
These are just a small list of things that Tv is doing wrong, if Tv wants to be big again they need to correct these mistakes or else everything Tv once was will be gone.
1st off Tv is doing the same old reality stuff over and over again.....
TV continues to do the sames shows over and over again, how many times have you seen the same type of reality show on another channel season after season, or the same remake season after season. so why do they do it because it is cheaper, where as video games are always trying to push the envelope and try new things.
2nd TV is scared where as Video Games are not
Another reason is that Tv has become scared to take on certain subject matter that is very much a part of our daily lives. Where as Video games has no fear and is not afraid to take chance and sometimes they get in trouble for some of the things they do but still the take the chance of doing it.
3rd Tv Producers care about money video game care about expanding
It seems to me at least that the people who make the Tv programs do not care about getting in more viewers they care about making the fans happy where the video game makers want to do both and sometimes they dont do so well but a lot of the times they keep the perfect balance.
These are just a small list of things that Tv is doing wrong, if Tv wants to be big again they need to correct these mistakes or else everything Tv once was will be gone.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
It is that time of year again...it is Christmas Time
hello all
Well it is that time of year again, that time of year where mom go crazy one friday, where people sells trees for decoration and where every house on the street looks all pretty with all the lights on them. It is Christmas time, the time to sit back and revel in the blessing of the year and to be with family and to celebrate the birth of a savior. However, after all the parties and gifts we also should use this time of year to look back on the past years and see what god has blessed us with and to be grateful for what he has allowed us to both have and experience. SO after you have gotten that big toy for your kid or that tool for your hubby or that expensive gift for the very important person in your life, remember what god has given you and if possible pass it on so that others will have a better christmas for this is the time of year where you put aside the me and bring forth the them.
Merry Christmas all and to all a good night
Well it is that time of year again, that time of year where mom go crazy one friday, where people sells trees for decoration and where every house on the street looks all pretty with all the lights on them. It is Christmas time, the time to sit back and revel in the blessing of the year and to be with family and to celebrate the birth of a savior. However, after all the parties and gifts we also should use this time of year to look back on the past years and see what god has blessed us with and to be grateful for what he has allowed us to both have and experience. SO after you have gotten that big toy for your kid or that tool for your hubby or that expensive gift for the very important person in your life, remember what god has given you and if possible pass it on so that others will have a better christmas for this is the time of year where you put aside the me and bring forth the them.
Merry Christmas all and to all a good night
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 Ps 3 Review
*the following does not include the multiplayer part of the game only the single player component was played for this review thank you*
Hello all
I am not a gamer who preorder's games all the time. Maybe once in a blue moon do i preorder a game, so when i do it had better be a great game, and let me Say that Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 is one such game. One that i was happy to preorder and one i am going to be happy to own for a long time. First off the campaign and let me say it is a doosy. The campaign kicks off right where Modern Warfare 2 left off, and finishes the story started in Call of duty 4 Modern Warfare started. It is capped by incredible sequences and background, and the story is one that feels more like a real movie than a video game. The places you play in and the areas you see, are familiar yet with a twist of war to them that many of these places has not seen in over 60 years, if ever.
The characters, you care about and are saddened if die and let me say this game puts anyone on the chopping block. The new characters are great additions to the already stellar characters and infanity ward and sledgehammer games has done and excellent job and give all the charterers their own style and movements.
After the campaign is over you are not done there is the single player Survivor mode and mission mode to contend with. Mission is just a series of mission set throughout the story that tell of different area, this is a nice addition to the game, and brings out a little more of the story of the campaign. Survivor though is another story entirely, this mode will be the mode you will stay up late at night to play just to see to what level you can get to. This mode, is where you fend off waves of enemies with whatever weapons you can get from the enemy, or buy. The weapons, can include things such as simple assualt rifle, to predator drone strike and sentry guns. All of these make strategy as well as shooting an important part of the game, which usually in a shooter strategy is missing. Also you can buy equipment upgrades like claymore mines and body armor as well as buy ammo refills and add ons to your guns like sights and grenade launchers. All of which give you more options to dispatch waves of foot soldiers, Juggernauts, and helicopters.
All in all this is one of the great games of this system and this generation of games, i am glad that Activision lived up to the expectations we games had for this game and i cant wait to see what is next for the call of duty franchise
10 starts out of ten
Hello all
I am not a gamer who preorder's games all the time. Maybe once in a blue moon do i preorder a game, so when i do it had better be a great game, and let me Say that Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 is one such game. One that i was happy to preorder and one i am going to be happy to own for a long time. First off the campaign and let me say it is a doosy. The campaign kicks off right where Modern Warfare 2 left off, and finishes the story started in Call of duty 4 Modern Warfare started. It is capped by incredible sequences and background, and the story is one that feels more like a real movie than a video game. The places you play in and the areas you see, are familiar yet with a twist of war to them that many of these places has not seen in over 60 years, if ever.
The characters, you care about and are saddened if die and let me say this game puts anyone on the chopping block. The new characters are great additions to the already stellar characters and infanity ward and sledgehammer games has done and excellent job and give all the charterers their own style and movements.
After the campaign is over you are not done there is the single player Survivor mode and mission mode to contend with. Mission is just a series of mission set throughout the story that tell of different area, this is a nice addition to the game, and brings out a little more of the story of the campaign. Survivor though is another story entirely, this mode will be the mode you will stay up late at night to play just to see to what level you can get to. This mode, is where you fend off waves of enemies with whatever weapons you can get from the enemy, or buy. The weapons, can include things such as simple assualt rifle, to predator drone strike and sentry guns. All of these make strategy as well as shooting an important part of the game, which usually in a shooter strategy is missing. Also you can buy equipment upgrades like claymore mines and body armor as well as buy ammo refills and add ons to your guns like sights and grenade launchers. All of which give you more options to dispatch waves of foot soldiers, Juggernauts, and helicopters.
All in all this is one of the great games of this system and this generation of games, i am glad that Activision lived up to the expectations we games had for this game and i cant wait to see what is next for the call of duty franchise
10 starts out of ten
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 Game Review
*the following game review reflect the PlayStation 3 version and does not include a review of the multiplayer only the single player campaign and features only*
Hello All
With the arrival of Modern Warfare 3 out i though it would be a good time to review the game before that one, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, and let me say this game does not disappoint. This game was made for fans of shooters. the story behind this game, is fluid, incredible, spans the world and is more like a blockbuster movie than a simple video game. When you get done with the campaign, the special ops mode has more mini missions you can play alone that are very difficult but rewarding to accomplish. While i wont give away the story, this games main single player component is the story and lures you in with tales of soldier, general, fighting, and more. If you have not bought this game do so now and get the new Modern Warfare three while you are at it but if you can get number 2 first so you can see how the modern warfare story continues from the first one and what to expect in number 3.
9 out of ten stars
Hello All
With the arrival of Modern Warfare 3 out i though it would be a good time to review the game before that one, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, and let me say this game does not disappoint. This game was made for fans of shooters. the story behind this game, is fluid, incredible, spans the world and is more like a blockbuster movie than a simple video game. When you get done with the campaign, the special ops mode has more mini missions you can play alone that are very difficult but rewarding to accomplish. While i wont give away the story, this games main single player component is the story and lures you in with tales of soldier, general, fighting, and more. If you have not bought this game do so now and get the new Modern Warfare three while you are at it but if you can get number 2 first so you can see how the modern warfare story continues from the first one and what to expect in number 3.
9 out of ten stars
Sunday, November 6, 2011
World War Z Review
Hello all
just got through reading the book World War Z by Max brooks and let me say that while the book does have it's flaws it is still a very enticing read. First off the format of the book is very unusual. Instead of telling the story from the perspective of one and having pieces of the world trickle in over time, Max tells it from an interviewer, and interviews multiple people from multiple parts of the world. This paints a very bleak picture of the Zombie War and the effects it has on the people, animal, and environment of the planet. The images Max puts forth is of a world at first in turmoil, then on the ropes, then desperate then clawing back. The people the interviewer talks to all have varied degree of opinions and voices all their own, from the Israelis, to the Russians to the Americans all have voices and experiences all their own. However because the book does jump around it can be easy to get lost from one person to another and some of the choices made by the character and their consequences are questionable at best, but these are minor blemishes on a good book.
8 out of ten stars
just got through reading the book World War Z by Max brooks and let me say that while the book does have it's flaws it is still a very enticing read. First off the format of the book is very unusual. Instead of telling the story from the perspective of one and having pieces of the world trickle in over time, Max tells it from an interviewer, and interviews multiple people from multiple parts of the world. This paints a very bleak picture of the Zombie War and the effects it has on the people, animal, and environment of the planet. The images Max puts forth is of a world at first in turmoil, then on the ropes, then desperate then clawing back. The people the interviewer talks to all have varied degree of opinions and voices all their own, from the Israelis, to the Russians to the Americans all have voices and experiences all their own. However because the book does jump around it can be easy to get lost from one person to another and some of the choices made by the character and their consequences are questionable at best, but these are minor blemishes on a good book.
8 out of ten stars
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Captain America DVD Review
Hello all
*****This is a Review for the DVD of Captain America the First Avenger I have not seen the Blu ray for this movie, keep that in mind while reading this.*********
First off let me say that the movie is still as great as it was when I saw it in theaters back in July, The transfer to DVD was great and did not hamper the movie one bit, so if you read my Review of the movie back in July you know how the movie went. The special features were an added touch, for one you have commentary by Joe Johnson, but the biggies are the Avenger assemble and the Outfitting the Hero section of the Special Features. Both of these add the final clues to next summer's super superhero move The Avengers. The only other feature of the DVD has previews of Thor, Avengers Animated, Super 8, and Transformers Dark of the moon.
This movie is one of those movies that allow you to lose yourself in an Adventure and forget how crappy the world can be. Not many things can make me smile for a whole 2 hours and make me feel like a kid reading my first comic but this does, and while there some interpretation of the original material. The movie follows faithfully and treats my comic hero with respect it deserves. To this day there is no other comic I revere more than Captain America and this movie is a movie I enjoy very much. Also many of Captain America's allies and enemies are included which set up both his back story and rogues gallery plus the way the movie was shot allows for decent sequels both in the past and in today's world Still the movie is an incredible movie one that will make you lose yourself for a little while so while it is bare with Special Features, it is still worth a buy, but for an Marvel fan it is a requirement to have this movie.
9 out of Ten stars
p.s In case you do not already know fast forward past the credits at the End of the Movie for a "Special Scene"
*****This is a Review for the DVD of Captain America the First Avenger I have not seen the Blu ray for this movie, keep that in mind while reading this.*********
First off let me say that the movie is still as great as it was when I saw it in theaters back in July, The transfer to DVD was great and did not hamper the movie one bit, so if you read my Review of the movie back in July you know how the movie went. The special features were an added touch, for one you have commentary by Joe Johnson, but the biggies are the Avenger assemble and the Outfitting the Hero section of the Special Features. Both of these add the final clues to next summer's super superhero move The Avengers. The only other feature of the DVD has previews of Thor, Avengers Animated, Super 8, and Transformers Dark of the moon.
This movie is one of those movies that allow you to lose yourself in an Adventure and forget how crappy the world can be. Not many things can make me smile for a whole 2 hours and make me feel like a kid reading my first comic but this does, and while there some interpretation of the original material. The movie follows faithfully and treats my comic hero with respect it deserves. To this day there is no other comic I revere more than Captain America and this movie is a movie I enjoy very much. Also many of Captain America's allies and enemies are included which set up both his back story and rogues gallery plus the way the movie was shot allows for decent sequels both in the past and in today's world Still the movie is an incredible movie one that will make you lose yourself for a little while so while it is bare with Special Features, it is still worth a buy, but for an Marvel fan it is a requirement to have this movie.
9 out of Ten stars
p.s In case you do not already know fast forward past the credits at the End of the Movie for a "Special Scene"
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Thor DVD Review
Hello all
Well I just got through watching the DVD Thor and let me say it was a good movie but not a great one. First off let me say that if you are not familiar with the origins of the comic book hero Thor that is ok. This is the movie that tells all about him but if you do know something about him then there are going to be little Easter eggs for all the fans, not only that but throughout the movie they allude to the other marvel titles, those mentioned are Iron man, and the Incredible hulk, and the secret after credits scene elludes to Captain America(which I have seen) Also we see hawkeye and while he does not really show us he can fight like black widow did in Iron Man 2 it does give us a peek at what is to come in the Avengers movie coming out next year. The acting was well done with both Anthony Hopkins and Chris Helmsworth both stealing the scenes they are in but also the others, the only one who really is sub par is Loki played by Tom Hiddleston,
Now the bad
First off some of the comedy scenes seem to be thrown in there just to be in there, secondly the movie feels a little rushed in the end and some of the slower going moments throughout the film do not have as much weight as they should be and the ending feels really rushed still with those aside it is still a good movie and one to whine away and own especially if you are an Avengers or a comic book fan and while it aint as good as the dark knight or Iron Man it is still a good one to own or at very least to rent.
Score
8 out of ten stars
Well I just got through watching the DVD Thor and let me say it was a good movie but not a great one. First off let me say that if you are not familiar with the origins of the comic book hero Thor that is ok. This is the movie that tells all about him but if you do know something about him then there are going to be little Easter eggs for all the fans, not only that but throughout the movie they allude to the other marvel titles, those mentioned are Iron man, and the Incredible hulk, and the secret after credits scene elludes to Captain America(which I have seen) Also we see hawkeye and while he does not really show us he can fight like black widow did in Iron Man 2 it does give us a peek at what is to come in the Avengers movie coming out next year. The acting was well done with both Anthony Hopkins and Chris Helmsworth both stealing the scenes they are in but also the others, the only one who really is sub par is Loki played by Tom Hiddleston,
Now the bad
First off some of the comedy scenes seem to be thrown in there just to be in there, secondly the movie feels a little rushed in the end and some of the slower going moments throughout the film do not have as much weight as they should be and the ending feels really rushed still with those aside it is still a good movie and one to whine away and own especially if you are an Avengers or a comic book fan and while it aint as good as the dark knight or Iron Man it is still a good one to own or at very least to rent.
Score
8 out of ten stars
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Book Review Starcarft show of the Xel Naga
Hello all
Today i will be review another book from the Starcraft Universe Shadow of the Xel Naga and let me say here is another Starcraft book i am very unhappy with. First off the ending was not at all good it was to out there even for me, secondly the start is too slow, third of it does not take place on any planet where the games take place. Now you may ask are there any good points about this book, yes the battle scenes are good and very well described, and the aliens in the book as compared to the game are very accurate, still it does not make up for what the books lacks, i wish i could say this book is for even the hardcore starcraft fans but it aint pass this one up and stick to the games.
2 out of ten stars
Today i will be review another book from the Starcraft Universe Shadow of the Xel Naga and let me say here is another Starcraft book i am very unhappy with. First off the ending was not at all good it was to out there even for me, secondly the start is too slow, third of it does not take place on any planet where the games take place. Now you may ask are there any good points about this book, yes the battle scenes are good and very well described, and the aliens in the book as compared to the game are very accurate, still it does not make up for what the books lacks, i wish i could say this book is for even the hardcore starcraft fans but it aint pass this one up and stick to the games.
2 out of ten stars
Thursday, September 15, 2011
and they wonder why
This year alot of the Broadcast Tv networks(CBS,ABC,NBC,CW,Pbs,Fox) were shunned from the oscars and while i have not heard much complaining from them is it any wonder why they were left out and the Cable networks got most of the nods. There are too few shows on the local networks to even warrant such a nod. There are only a few shows that i even watch on those networks(NCIS, SVU, Bones,) Now days most of what is on the locals is Reality, or talk show. Heck they have even gotten rid of the tried and true Soap Operas and exchange we get a cooking show and a lifestyle show. Look if the broadcast networks want some recognition then do something that get you recognized and put on more good shows and leave the reality show in the past already or else soon locals will be cut and everyone will need cable to watch something.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Book Review Starcraft Ghost
Hello all
This is my Book review of an old book known as Starcraft ghost NOVA. This book is based in the Starcraft Video game universe, and let me say i was very unimpressed with this book.
Most books i buy grab me within the first one or two chapters and make me want to come back for more, even if i am unfamiliar with the universe, or world they are based in. Still while i am very familiar with the starcraft universe, this book did not grab me at all. With this being my first book based in this universe i had expected more still i did finish the book, and some of the early flaws were made up it ended with a rushed feeling, i had high hopes for this book, to allow me to experience some of the places i played in the game and yet it did not. I am very disappointed that it misses such a big mark. Only buy this book if you are a die hard fan of the game series if not pass it up
3 out of 10 stars
This is my Book review of an old book known as Starcraft ghost NOVA. This book is based in the Starcraft Video game universe, and let me say i was very unimpressed with this book.
Most books i buy grab me within the first one or two chapters and make me want to come back for more, even if i am unfamiliar with the universe, or world they are based in. Still while i am very familiar with the starcraft universe, this book did not grab me at all. With this being my first book based in this universe i had expected more still i did finish the book, and some of the early flaws were made up it ended with a rushed feeling, i had high hopes for this book, to allow me to experience some of the places i played in the game and yet it did not. I am very disappointed that it misses such a big mark. Only buy this book if you are a die hard fan of the game series if not pass it up
3 out of 10 stars
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Movie Theatre review Captain America The First Avenger
Hello everyone
Well yesterday i went and saw The Movie Captain America The First Avenger and let me tell you after about 24 hours of letting the movie set in. It was Awesome especially if you were a fan of the comics. It hits all the marks of the origin story of Captain America really well, and links this movie with the avengers( it does it really well after the credits.) All us marvel comic movies fans can now say the road to the avengers is complete with this movie. The acting is done very well. Peggy, Carter, Steve Rogers/Captain America, Bucky, the howling commandos, Howard stark. Are all perfectly cast for this movie. This movie is not just for the comic fan but for any movie goer, it draws you into the story and keeps there and the edge of your seat until the end.
This movie is no dark knight, this is a movie for someone who does not want to think but want to lose himself in a decent amount of escapism for 2 hours or more. If you need to think during a movie go see the dark knight but if the heat wave had got you wanting to lose yourself in a good old adventure for a few hours then go see this movie it will be well worth the price of admission.
9 out of ten stars
Well yesterday i went and saw The Movie Captain America The First Avenger and let me tell you after about 24 hours of letting the movie set in. It was Awesome especially if you were a fan of the comics. It hits all the marks of the origin story of Captain America really well, and links this movie with the avengers( it does it really well after the credits.) All us marvel comic movies fans can now say the road to the avengers is complete with this movie. The acting is done very well. Peggy, Carter, Steve Rogers/Captain America, Bucky, the howling commandos, Howard stark. Are all perfectly cast for this movie. This movie is not just for the comic fan but for any movie goer, it draws you into the story and keeps there and the edge of your seat until the end.
This movie is no dark knight, this is a movie for someone who does not want to think but want to lose himself in a decent amount of escapism for 2 hours or more. If you need to think during a movie go see the dark knight but if the heat wave had got you wanting to lose yourself in a good old adventure for a few hours then go see this movie it will be well worth the price of admission.
9 out of ten stars
Friday, July 22, 2011
Movie Gimmick the D
We have all seen the commercials come see this movie or that movie in 3D or the newer 4D, buy the TV with the 3D Glasses so you can have the total movie or Tv experience let me tell you in my opinion it is all a gimmick some thing to take you away for the movie and that for me is a bad thing. Throughout the history of movie making the truly great movies have not had 3D or smellovision or any of that stuff they were great not because of how you saw them but how good they were in terms of story, acting and effects. SO until 3d is used for something other than concealing a bad movie dont buy the gimmicks buy a good movie instead.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Battle: Los Angeles DVD Review
*Note the following review is for the basic cheapo version of the DVd not the bundle pack or Blu Ray. this review reflects the Basic DVD only*
Hello all
Let me say that i am very please with this movie, this movie can be summed up in one sentence it would be this"If the movie Saving Private Ryan and Independence day had a child it would be this film." This film mixes war, Scifi, all into a nice and neat bundle that is very believable and also very cool. From start to finish this movie keeps you on the edge of your seat and while there are some cliches in the movie such as the suicide mission to stop everything part, it is hidden away behind the action so you dont even notice it unless you are looking for it. The actors all do a fantastic job especially Aaron Eckhart. In this movie he proves he can do a decent if not great war film. the only other complaint i can give is the camera sometimes makes it hard to follow the action but that also adds to the realism of the film.
This movie get a 9 out of ten stars for being good
Hello all
Let me say that i am very please with this movie, this movie can be summed up in one sentence it would be this"If the movie Saving Private Ryan and Independence day had a child it would be this film." This film mixes war, Scifi, all into a nice and neat bundle that is very believable and also very cool. From start to finish this movie keeps you on the edge of your seat and while there are some cliches in the movie such as the suicide mission to stop everything part, it is hidden away behind the action so you dont even notice it unless you are looking for it. The actors all do a fantastic job especially Aaron Eckhart. In this movie he proves he can do a decent if not great war film. the only other complaint i can give is the camera sometimes makes it hard to follow the action but that also adds to the realism of the film.
This movie get a 9 out of ten stars for being good
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Finally Scifi is back on TV
last night was the premiere of the Scifi Tv show Falling Skies on TNT and let me say that it is great to see decent scifi back on TV. The 2 hour premiere was very well done and set the story up perfectly and in such a way to make me want to come back. Hopefully the other networks will see the success with this show and bring more like it out until then though i will be watching falling skies on TNT. It come on sundays at 9 central
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Book Review Dan Brown's The Lost Symbol
hello all
i recently bought the book by Dan Brown Titled The Lost Symbol and let me say it is a great book. It has been a long while since a book took me on a journey like this.
First off i like the way he does the coded messages in the book. He makes try to figure them out before main character does. Secondly he keeps you guessing throughout the entire book. Third off the characters in the book make you want to believe in them also the bad guy is truly viscous in this one and you dont really know his plan until the end. After reading this book my only complaint is that it is really long and some of the chapters can be too short, still those are grips and not really complaints for this book. This book had me all the way til the end, not since Red Storm Rising had a book kept me going like this.
9 out of 10 stars
i recently bought the book by Dan Brown Titled The Lost Symbol and let me say it is a great book. It has been a long while since a book took me on a journey like this.
First off i like the way he does the coded messages in the book. He makes try to figure them out before main character does. Secondly he keeps you guessing throughout the entire book. Third off the characters in the book make you want to believe in them also the bad guy is truly viscous in this one and you dont really know his plan until the end. After reading this book my only complaint is that it is really long and some of the chapters can be too short, still those are grips and not really complaints for this book. This book had me all the way til the end, not since Red Storm Rising had a book kept me going like this.
9 out of 10 stars
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Another TV season end with good shows dying out
Hello all
well another Tv season ends and alas alot of the scripted dhows many of them i like got the AXE big time. Soaps opera, scripted programs all of these types of shows are dying out in favor of the cheap reality show. Which is sad to see. I now see why many people go to stations like TNT or FX for the tv shows. They have more variety and very few reality shows if any. My suggestion to the network TV(ABC, NBC,CBS,FOX,CW) have on one reality show a season and the rest make scripted programming that people like to see and you might find that you wont be losing viewers any longer.
well another Tv season ends and alas alot of the scripted dhows many of them i like got the AXE big time. Soaps opera, scripted programs all of these types of shows are dying out in favor of the cheap reality show. Which is sad to see. I now see why many people go to stations like TNT or FX for the tv shows. They have more variety and very few reality shows if any. My suggestion to the network TV(ABC, NBC,CBS,FOX,CW) have on one reality show a season and the rest make scripted programming that people like to see and you might find that you wont be losing viewers any longer.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Book Review Tom Clancys Ghost Recon Combat Ops
hello all
I just got through reading the second book in the Tom Clancy Ghost Recon Video game to book series and let me say it was not what i was expecting. while i am not disappointed in the book, it could have been better in alot of ways. Lets talk about what is wrong with this book so far.
First off the characters while authentic military wise are not really all that believable as people, while some are most are not especially those who came over from the first book. Many of the returning characters from that book have changed dramatically, a little to much for my taste. Secondly the author is very much a cynic about the war in Afghanistan, while that is his opinion to have, it bleeds through to the pages and makes you a cynic as well. Third off some of the actions of the characters do not make any sense, and there were times i was asking myself why would they do that, how could that happen. finally the ending leave a lot to be desired.
what is right about this book is this first off the battle scenes are done good, you get the feel taste smell of every shot, explosion, fight and search. Secondly there is a lot of intrigue in this book, and the ghost have to navigate a maze and if this your thing thing you will like it. Finally, the weapons, characters and vehicles are all loyal to the video game material from which it is based on.
In closing this is a ok book if there is nothing else to read or you are waiting for a plane or bus but if you are not a fan of this book dont read it.
5 out of 10 stars
I just got through reading the second book in the Tom Clancy Ghost Recon Video game to book series and let me say it was not what i was expecting. while i am not disappointed in the book, it could have been better in alot of ways. Lets talk about what is wrong with this book so far.
First off the characters while authentic military wise are not really all that believable as people, while some are most are not especially those who came over from the first book. Many of the returning characters from that book have changed dramatically, a little to much for my taste. Secondly the author is very much a cynic about the war in Afghanistan, while that is his opinion to have, it bleeds through to the pages and makes you a cynic as well. Third off some of the actions of the characters do not make any sense, and there were times i was asking myself why would they do that, how could that happen. finally the ending leave a lot to be desired.
what is right about this book is this first off the battle scenes are done good, you get the feel taste smell of every shot, explosion, fight and search. Secondly there is a lot of intrigue in this book, and the ghost have to navigate a maze and if this your thing thing you will like it. Finally, the weapons, characters and vehicles are all loyal to the video game material from which it is based on.
In closing this is a ok book if there is nothing else to read or you are waiting for a plane or bus but if you are not a fan of this book dont read it.
5 out of 10 stars
Monday, April 18, 2011
Staples of TV disappearing
if by now you have not heard about it two staples of TV are going off the air The soap Operas All My Children and One Life to live will go off the air within the next year with AMC going off in September and OLTL going off in January, being replaced with lifestyle and cooking shows. I wish i could say i am surprised by this but i am not here is why.
1st the new in is cheap
Lets face it cooking shows and lifestyle show are cheaper to make than Soaps the problem is you get what you pay for. So while Soaps have more of a story and can lure people to the network they cost alot to make.
2nd no down time
unlike most shows on tv now, soap operas never had a off season, when you tuned in at 12 and one you got a brand new episode no matter if it was in the winter time or spring time. this is exhausting to the crew of these shows
3rd it dont hit the right demographic
lets face it the soap opera has always been for someone older in the 30 to 60 range of age and while some of these has been passed down to their children, most do not watch these soaps and many of my generation do not watch it on a regular basis nor do we know of the history of certain characters no days tv companies want a younger audience and sorry to say most younger audiences do not watch soaps because they are in school, college, or to busy.
4th attention spans have decreased
times have changed and the amount of time we would spend on a particular story has shortened. While in the past writers could get away with stretching something out for a couple of months we want things to happen in a week maybe two and when it don't we tune out.
Still i am going to miss these shows and it just goes to show you how low TV has gotten and why many are going online to get their entertainment. I once heard someone called the Television an Idiot Box with these two shows gone and talk of others joining them, it look like that may well be the case.
1st the new in is cheap
Lets face it cooking shows and lifestyle show are cheaper to make than Soaps the problem is you get what you pay for. So while Soaps have more of a story and can lure people to the network they cost alot to make.
2nd no down time
unlike most shows on tv now, soap operas never had a off season, when you tuned in at 12 and one you got a brand new episode no matter if it was in the winter time or spring time. this is exhausting to the crew of these shows
3rd it dont hit the right demographic
lets face it the soap opera has always been for someone older in the 30 to 60 range of age and while some of these has been passed down to their children, most do not watch these soaps and many of my generation do not watch it on a regular basis nor do we know of the history of certain characters no days tv companies want a younger audience and sorry to say most younger audiences do not watch soaps because they are in school, college, or to busy.
4th attention spans have decreased
times have changed and the amount of time we would spend on a particular story has shortened. While in the past writers could get away with stretching something out for a couple of months we want things to happen in a week maybe two and when it don't we tune out.
Still i am going to miss these shows and it just goes to show you how low TV has gotten and why many are going online to get their entertainment. I once heard someone called the Television an Idiot Box with these two shows gone and talk of others joining them, it look like that may well be the case.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Scifi Dying?
hello all
Since i was a little kid there has been one genre of TV that could always grab me and that genre is the science fiction genre. Star Wars, Star trek: the Next Generation, Space Above and Beyond, Reruns of Battlestar Galactica, the six million dollar man and the bionic woman and the 1970's incredible hulk. original shows like farscape, Star Trek: Voyager, Firefly. Are what i grew up on, and went through high school and college watching every night. yet i look at the tv schedule and see that the choices for science fiction fans is slim. Even the network that once was scifi, now syfy has turned to reality shows and more of a fiction show that science fiction. Shows like V on ABC, No Ordinary Family also on ABC, The cape and the ramake of the Bionic Woman on NBC when they do premiere do not last long and seldom last for more than one season if even that long. It seems the new show of choice now days if Reality shows. Now i admit it i watch reality shows but only one Deadliest Catch on Discovery is the only one i can love. so with that said let me say that there is only so many times i can watch some blonde bombshell try out and fail to make it big with singing or stomach watching a bunch of teenagers get drunk and have sex all day and night. this is not reality in my book nore will it ever be. Hopefully once the reality craze passes the tv networks will look to their old friend scifi and fans of the genre will be given good tv viewing instead of real.
Since i was a little kid there has been one genre of TV that could always grab me and that genre is the science fiction genre. Star Wars, Star trek: the Next Generation, Space Above and Beyond, Reruns of Battlestar Galactica, the six million dollar man and the bionic woman and the 1970's incredible hulk. original shows like farscape, Star Trek: Voyager, Firefly. Are what i grew up on, and went through high school and college watching every night. yet i look at the tv schedule and see that the choices for science fiction fans is slim. Even the network that once was scifi, now syfy has turned to reality shows and more of a fiction show that science fiction. Shows like V on ABC, No Ordinary Family also on ABC, The cape and the ramake of the Bionic Woman on NBC when they do premiere do not last long and seldom last for more than one season if even that long. It seems the new show of choice now days if Reality shows. Now i admit it i watch reality shows but only one Deadliest Catch on Discovery is the only one i can love. so with that said let me say that there is only so many times i can watch some blonde bombshell try out and fail to make it big with singing or stomach watching a bunch of teenagers get drunk and have sex all day and night. this is not reality in my book nore will it ever be. Hopefully once the reality craze passes the tv networks will look to their old friend scifi and fans of the genre will be given good tv viewing instead of real.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Tv's Down Time What to watch on DVD
Hello all
Well it is that time of year again where tv sort of goes on leave and we get left with few rare new episodes and rerun TV, so what to do. Well first you can read a good book, play a game or watch a DVD. Which dvd should i watch or buy well here is my list of a few you should check out.
Firefly the complete series
Firefly Tv Show info
Firefly Amazon Page
This will always be on my what to watch list for 3 simple reasons.
1. it was a very well done scifi show before everything was killed off by reality TV
2. the acting and stories were great
3. it was killed off before it had a chance to really take off.
This is one of those shows that was good but was taken off the air before it really had a chance to get started, the first season and only season was a well done, well written work of fiction that even today has fans come back and the movie it made was good also. If you want a perfect example of a show that had so much potential but was shut down before it's prime watch this one
Jericho the Complete series
Jericho Tv show info
Jericho's Amazon Page
Here is another example of a show that could have but never was. it was a very ell done series that for two seasons thrilled us with a what if scenario that after 9/11 could become reality. The acting was great and the setups of everything was very well done and well written.
Kings the complete series
Kings Tv Series info
Kings Amazon Page
Never in TV history that i can think of has a show mixed bible references, Scifi, Alternate reality, romance, War, and a dash of intrigue and you get Kings. This show was a very well done show, and showed that NBC still had guts to even air it. While this show did not last long it was one of those shows that left a big impression.
Taken the mini series
Taken Mini series info
Amazon page for Taken
Before the scifi channel became SYFY channel and turned into we will air anything that is garbage network they made some pretty great shows and mini series. Farscape, Battlestar Galactica the new series, and this series taken were some of the most notable. While it only lasted 10 episodes it still was very well written and directed by Steven Spielberg.
Space:Above and Beyond
Space above and beyond info page
Amazon page for Space above and beyond
this is the series that gave all us nerds the terms Space Marine and made it stick. Before there was Halo, Killzone, or any of those video gamea about the heroic space marine fighting off the enemy there was this Show. this show still more than a decade after it was taken off the air, still is something for me.
These re just a few Science fiction Tv shows on DVD that will tie you over until the TV networks get back to work make new episodes of your favorite shows, happy watching:)
Well it is that time of year again where tv sort of goes on leave and we get left with few rare new episodes and rerun TV, so what to do. Well first you can read a good book, play a game or watch a DVD. Which dvd should i watch or buy well here is my list of a few you should check out.
Firefly the complete series
Firefly Tv Show info
Firefly Amazon Page
This will always be on my what to watch list for 3 simple reasons.
1. it was a very well done scifi show before everything was killed off by reality TV
2. the acting and stories were great
3. it was killed off before it had a chance to really take off.
This is one of those shows that was good but was taken off the air before it really had a chance to get started, the first season and only season was a well done, well written work of fiction that even today has fans come back and the movie it made was good also. If you want a perfect example of a show that had so much potential but was shut down before it's prime watch this one
Jericho the Complete series
Jericho Tv show info
Jericho's Amazon Page
Here is another example of a show that could have but never was. it was a very ell done series that for two seasons thrilled us with a what if scenario that after 9/11 could become reality. The acting was great and the setups of everything was very well done and well written.
Kings the complete series
Kings Tv Series info
Kings Amazon Page
Never in TV history that i can think of has a show mixed bible references, Scifi, Alternate reality, romance, War, and a dash of intrigue and you get Kings. This show was a very well done show, and showed that NBC still had guts to even air it. While this show did not last long it was one of those shows that left a big impression.
Taken the mini series
Taken Mini series info
Amazon page for Taken
Before the scifi channel became SYFY channel and turned into we will air anything that is garbage network they made some pretty great shows and mini series. Farscape, Battlestar Galactica the new series, and this series taken were some of the most notable. While it only lasted 10 episodes it still was very well written and directed by Steven Spielberg.
Space:Above and Beyond
Space above and beyond info page
Amazon page for Space above and beyond
this is the series that gave all us nerds the terms Space Marine and made it stick. Before there was Halo, Killzone, or any of those video gamea about the heroic space marine fighting off the enemy there was this Show. this show still more than a decade after it was taken off the air, still is something for me.
These re just a few Science fiction Tv shows on DVD that will tie you over until the TV networks get back to work make new episodes of your favorite shows, happy watching:)
Sunday, March 20, 2011
my condolences
hello all
i just wanted to say that my heart foes out to the families of the earthquake, tsunami, and possible nuclear disaster occurring in Japan. It is my hope that god will see you through this terrible time and that those who were forced to leave will soon be back. Also god bless the workers who continue to work in the damaged reactor in hopes of stopping catastrophe.
i just wanted to say that my heart foes out to the families of the earthquake, tsunami, and possible nuclear disaster occurring in Japan. It is my hope that god will see you through this terrible time and that those who were forced to leave will soon be back. Also god bless the workers who continue to work in the damaged reactor in hopes of stopping catastrophe.
Friday, March 4, 2011
The changing of entertainmant
hello everyone
Just recently i was able to buy one of my all time favorite Tv shows on DVD, it was the canceled Tv series firefly, it made ms miss good scifi tv or for that matter good Tv. Now days it seems that all that is on TV Reality shows. Literally on Every Channel there is a reality show. American Idol, The biggest Loser, the Jersey Shore it seems like the new drug of choice for tv companies is reality shows and they are all hooked. So from one Tv fan to the companies please stop with the reality shows already I dont know about alot of you but i have gotten sick and tired of reality shows with their voting i want something with imagination and voting on who will lose the most weight or who has the best singing voice aint just going to make me turn off the Tv, but eventually no one will care about the reality show and then what will you do.
Just recently i was able to buy one of my all time favorite Tv shows on DVD, it was the canceled Tv series firefly, it made ms miss good scifi tv or for that matter good Tv. Now days it seems that all that is on TV Reality shows. Literally on Every Channel there is a reality show. American Idol, The biggest Loser, the Jersey Shore it seems like the new drug of choice for tv companies is reality shows and they are all hooked. So from one Tv fan to the companies please stop with the reality shows already I dont know about alot of you but i have gotten sick and tired of reality shows with their voting i want something with imagination and voting on who will lose the most weight or who has the best singing voice aint just going to make me turn off the Tv, but eventually no one will care about the reality show and then what will you do.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
sometimes the old way is better at least for me.
hello everyone
Here lately i have been noticing that alot of people have been buying these e-readers like the amazon kindle, and the Barnes and noble nook. While i am always glad for something that will advance technology and reading, i personally dont like these there are a few reasons why.
1st off it take away business from the mom and pop bookstores who maybe dont have the money to put in a place for e-readers. No offense i like buying books from Amazon but i also like buying books from my local bookstore too.
2.normal paper books dont need batteries. yopu dont have to worry about plugging them up to a outlet to recharge or anything like that, you want to read just pull out the book and read not heck to make sure you have enough battery time for one chapter before you need to recharge.
3.when you read a normal book you feel the texture of the pages, the sound of the page turning, the soft or rough paper as it turns. With a ereader you just dont get that same sensory input you would from an ereader
now am i saying you should not read books off your cell phone or i phone, no. Still in my personal opninon you should not buy and advanced item for something a simple as getting a book and reading it no matter if it is the next big thing or not. Just my thought is all.
Here lately i have been noticing that alot of people have been buying these e-readers like the amazon kindle, and the Barnes and noble nook. While i am always glad for something that will advance technology and reading, i personally dont like these there are a few reasons why.
1st off it take away business from the mom and pop bookstores who maybe dont have the money to put in a place for e-readers. No offense i like buying books from Amazon but i also like buying books from my local bookstore too.
2.normal paper books dont need batteries. yopu dont have to worry about plugging them up to a outlet to recharge or anything like that, you want to read just pull out the book and read not heck to make sure you have enough battery time for one chapter before you need to recharge.
3.when you read a normal book you feel the texture of the pages, the sound of the page turning, the soft or rough paper as it turns. With a ereader you just dont get that same sensory input you would from an ereader
now am i saying you should not read books off your cell phone or i phone, no. Still in my personal opninon you should not buy and advanced item for something a simple as getting a book and reading it no matter if it is the next big thing or not. Just my thought is all.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Book Review Tom Clancy's Endwar The Hunted
Hello all
I just got through reading the book Tom Clancy's EndWar The Hunted
First off unlike the the first book this is a book that focuses on Special Forces operations instead of the war itself. Many of the War scenarios from the first book are gone in favor of stealth, covert operations, and espionage. so if that aint you bag then this will not be a book for you. For me it was and it was a very enjoyable book, while the first one is still better this one was a good one altogether.
The good
First off the covert operations all told with amazing detail and forthought
secondly, the locales are expanded and you see more of what has happened to this world.
third More characters add more intrigue to this world and the ending leaves open another book.
The bad
Some of the characters actions are questionable especially since the first book set them up so very well
secondly some of the actions of the major factions in the book make no sense given their past history.
one of the characters does not seem believable but plays a central part of the sotry
These bad points can be overcome throughout most of the book but there are points where they stand out. While a good book it felt it needed some polishing stil la good time killing story.
7 out of 10 stars
I just got through reading the book Tom Clancy's EndWar The Hunted
First off unlike the the first book this is a book that focuses on Special Forces operations instead of the war itself. Many of the War scenarios from the first book are gone in favor of stealth, covert operations, and espionage. so if that aint you bag then this will not be a book for you. For me it was and it was a very enjoyable book, while the first one is still better this one was a good one altogether.
The good
First off the covert operations all told with amazing detail and forthought
secondly, the locales are expanded and you see more of what has happened to this world.
third More characters add more intrigue to this world and the ending leaves open another book.
The bad
Some of the characters actions are questionable especially since the first book set them up so very well
secondly some of the actions of the major factions in the book make no sense given their past history.
one of the characters does not seem believable but plays a central part of the sotry
These bad points can be overcome throughout most of the book but there are points where they stand out. While a good book it felt it needed some polishing stil la good time killing story.
7 out of 10 stars
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Book Review Homefront Voice of Freedom
hello all
I just recently got through reading the new paperback book HomeFront Voice of freedom and let me tell you it was very good.
First off a little back ground the book is a tie in to the upcoming Video game Homefront. The video game and the book tell of the year 2025 when the North Korean Army after annexing many of its neighbors invaded a vulnerable and weak United States. It was written by Raymond Benson and the man behind the 1984 movie Red Dawn, John Milius.
First off let me say if you like Red Dawn, you will like this book. John Milius' fingerprints are all over this, from the story to the characters, to some of the events. The book is told from the point of view from two people, one is an American and the other is the leader of the invading forces. the imagery of a broken and defeated country is striking and in complete opposite of what it is today but the situation is such that you feel throughout the entire book that this could very well happen in the future. Also the journal entries give you a look into the mind of the American and allow you to see how this dark world is seen from his point of view more accurately.
There are a couple of points i didn't like:
1. at times the American main character seems real but other times he seems completely false.
2.some of the actions by the invading force would draw worldwide condemnation and none of that is told in the book.
Still these two items are nit picks at best and nothing at worse. It is a good book and if this is any indication the game will be just as good.
Final Score
9 out of ten stars (Excellent)
I just recently got through reading the new paperback book HomeFront Voice of freedom and let me tell you it was very good.
First off a little back ground the book is a tie in to the upcoming Video game Homefront. The video game and the book tell of the year 2025 when the North Korean Army after annexing many of its neighbors invaded a vulnerable and weak United States. It was written by Raymond Benson and the man behind the 1984 movie Red Dawn, John Milius.
First off let me say if you like Red Dawn, you will like this book. John Milius' fingerprints are all over this, from the story to the characters, to some of the events. The book is told from the point of view from two people, one is an American and the other is the leader of the invading forces. the imagery of a broken and defeated country is striking and in complete opposite of what it is today but the situation is such that you feel throughout the entire book that this could very well happen in the future. Also the journal entries give you a look into the mind of the American and allow you to see how this dark world is seen from his point of view more accurately.
There are a couple of points i didn't like:
1. at times the American main character seems real but other times he seems completely false.
2.some of the actions by the invading force would draw worldwide condemnation and none of that is told in the book.
Still these two items are nit picks at best and nothing at worse. It is a good book and if this is any indication the game will be just as good.
Final Score
9 out of ten stars (Excellent)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Assembling a B.O.B or a G.O.O.D kit(things i have learned
Building a B.O.B or a GOOD kit
Hello everyone, over the past year, my seeing the tragedies on tv happening in Chile and Haiti not including those since then and those before(Katrina) I finally decided to build a BOB(Bug out Bag) or a GOOD kit(Get out of Dodge kit) for those of you who dont know what these are here is a little primer
Bug out Bag and Good Kit primer
a bug out bag or a good kit is a kit that in a emergency you would pick up and go, if you had to suddenly leave your home or place of work or even your car this is the kit you could grab and go to another location. Usually it contain supplies including food, water, clothing, and other equipment to keep you moving or to help protect you. Where as a survival kit is long term a B.O.B or a GOOD kit usually on keeps supplies to last about from a minimum of 3 days.
Now that you know let me share with you some of the things I have learned over the past 6 months.
Start small and take your time
first off dont be in a rush to build one, be smart with your purchases for the kit and know what you are going to get, what not to get, and the things you should get first. Don't worry, you have plenty of time so take it slow and be calm about it.
Dont listen to naysayers
I have been told by people that I am wasting my time, that this is all a waste of money and this is something I will never use, dont listen to them. Why, because if the sky started falling, while they are going around trying to find what to bring and what not to bring, you will be prepared and ready what may come, so when someone tells you not to bother with it, remind them about the story with the ant and the squirrel or remind them of this little saying” that it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
Finally remember this”you are not crazy you are just be prepared”
Survival is not a beauty contest
since I have started making my kit I have gotten many of my items from places you would not expect. Like Military surplus stores, flea markets, and thrift stores. While the clothing and stuff here is not the most glamorous, it is functional, good and most of all, not high in the price department. Example at a local thrift store near my home I found a Vietnam era camouflage cold weather jack with hoody for 10 dollars, while used was still in good condition with only a little weathering. That same style jacket new on the internet at a bare minimum would cost me 70 dollars, used and upwards of 100.00 for the new jackets.
Know before hand what to get and what not to get.
When you start making your kit dont just throw everything in the kit, including the kitchen sink, some of it you might need and some you wont, and since you want to be able to carry you bag, you might want to decide what to put in it before hand. Make a list of items, this list should be determines by two things.
First off location location location
like real estate agents have said location is everything, know where you live, what threats, you will face(fire, tornado nuclear attack, terrorism etc but dont be paranoid about it), know where you are going to go, how long it would take and if you couldn't get there where would the most likely you would be safest, dont go overboard just know the basics of your environment, where the interstates are, where the highways are, alternate routes to your safe place, and how you would get from point A to point Z if you had to. Also make sure other know where you would go if the unthinkable happens, write down on paper and put on a fridge or just tell them every now and then to let them know.
Keep it Simple Stupid
fancy gadgets are great to have but when it comes to living most of the times it aint the fancy high tech thingamajig that get you through it, it is the simple thing that does, so try to keep your bag as tech free as possible. Cell phone ok, flashlight ok, fancy GPS Compass, not ok. When possible keep it simple, it is always the best idea.
Finally nothing is set in stone
there is always room for improvement, just because something aint on you list does not mean it aint a good idea to get it. See a better jacket than the one already in your kit, get it. Did you find a cheaper compass than the one already in there, get it. Use your own common sense, and when in doubt look to people you know or even to websites to help you out.
I hope that someone reads this and it helps them out a little even if it get you thinking about what to do in an emergency, here then it was worth the time to write this. Finally good luck
Hello everyone, over the past year, my seeing the tragedies on tv happening in Chile and Haiti not including those since then and those before(Katrina) I finally decided to build a BOB(Bug out Bag) or a GOOD kit(Get out of Dodge kit) for those of you who dont know what these are here is a little primer
Bug out Bag and Good Kit primer
a bug out bag or a good kit is a kit that in a emergency you would pick up and go, if you had to suddenly leave your home or place of work or even your car this is the kit you could grab and go to another location. Usually it contain supplies including food, water, clothing, and other equipment to keep you moving or to help protect you. Where as a survival kit is long term a B.O.B or a GOOD kit usually on keeps supplies to last about from a minimum of 3 days.
Now that you know let me share with you some of the things I have learned over the past 6 months.
Start small and take your time
first off dont be in a rush to build one, be smart with your purchases for the kit and know what you are going to get, what not to get, and the things you should get first. Don't worry, you have plenty of time so take it slow and be calm about it.
Dont listen to naysayers
I have been told by people that I am wasting my time, that this is all a waste of money and this is something I will never use, dont listen to them. Why, because if the sky started falling, while they are going around trying to find what to bring and what not to bring, you will be prepared and ready what may come, so when someone tells you not to bother with it, remind them about the story with the ant and the squirrel or remind them of this little saying” that it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”
Finally remember this”you are not crazy you are just be prepared”
Survival is not a beauty contest
since I have started making my kit I have gotten many of my items from places you would not expect. Like Military surplus stores, flea markets, and thrift stores. While the clothing and stuff here is not the most glamorous, it is functional, good and most of all, not high in the price department. Example at a local thrift store near my home I found a Vietnam era camouflage cold weather jack with hoody for 10 dollars, while used was still in good condition with only a little weathering. That same style jacket new on the internet at a bare minimum would cost me 70 dollars, used and upwards of 100.00 for the new jackets.
Know before hand what to get and what not to get.
When you start making your kit dont just throw everything in the kit, including the kitchen sink, some of it you might need and some you wont, and since you want to be able to carry you bag, you might want to decide what to put in it before hand. Make a list of items, this list should be determines by two things.
First off location location location
like real estate agents have said location is everything, know where you live, what threats, you will face(fire, tornado nuclear attack, terrorism etc but dont be paranoid about it), know where you are going to go, how long it would take and if you couldn't get there where would the most likely you would be safest, dont go overboard just know the basics of your environment, where the interstates are, where the highways are, alternate routes to your safe place, and how you would get from point A to point Z if you had to. Also make sure other know where you would go if the unthinkable happens, write down on paper and put on a fridge or just tell them every now and then to let them know.
Keep it Simple Stupid
fancy gadgets are great to have but when it comes to living most of the times it aint the fancy high tech thingamajig that get you through it, it is the simple thing that does, so try to keep your bag as tech free as possible. Cell phone ok, flashlight ok, fancy GPS Compass, not ok. When possible keep it simple, it is always the best idea.
Finally nothing is set in stone
there is always room for improvement, just because something aint on you list does not mean it aint a good idea to get it. See a better jacket than the one already in your kit, get it. Did you find a cheaper compass than the one already in there, get it. Use your own common sense, and when in doubt look to people you know or even to websites to help you out.
I hope that someone reads this and it helps them out a little even if it get you thinking about what to do in an emergency, here then it was worth the time to write this. Finally good luck
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