This book is one that I will not give much fanfare. It went the way of many other easy outs and screwing up of the original in a few ways. AND IT WAS WRITTEN BY A BOSHGONENABBIT RELATIVE OF THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR!
Excuse me, but I'm a lot opinionated about it.
Title: Dracula The Un-Dead
Author(s): Dacre Stoker and Ian Holt
Basically a wonderful adaptation until the last few chapters.
Another vampire threat comes ... geeze, how do I review this without spoilers?
Look - if you want to read another Dracula novel, go take a peek at this one.
If you want more about my opinions, well, the first little blurb was enough.
Lastly: STOP MAKING THE VILLAIN INTO A SNOWFLAKE!
Showing posts with label Dracula. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dracula. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Tuesday, March 6, 2018
OMD: Monster Mash
I know - I know!
It's March, not the time of year for Halloween movies. And I was truly going to go with one that was more related to St. Patrick's Day.....until I realize I may have already done so. And this was on my YouTube watch list and I had such a fun time watching it.
I give you:
"Monster Mash: The Movie" (1995)
I couldn't find a decent image to post on here, so I challenge you to go onto the internet and look it up.
Right - the 90's were full of teenage-coming-of-age-always-in-trouble films and TV shows. Take "Full House" for instance....DJ Tanner is now the protagonist, with her boyfriend in a rather campy, musically fun flick.
"Romeo" and "Juliet" A.K.A. Scott and Mary are on their way to a Halloween party when their car breaks down. Lucky for them there's a rather frightening mansion close by that offers them refuge for the night.
No so luck, it's a house full of literal monsters!
I find this film rather dear because one of my favorite stage actors portrays Dracula (which was a rather big surprise for me when it came up on my playlist. I glanced the name in the opening credits and then freaked out when he started singing.)
With many twists and turns including: Dr. Frankenstein trying to transfer one brain to another body; vampires lusting for fresh blood; a wolf-man with an overbearing mother; a hunchback with a crush; a Mummy with a manager; and lots of campy songs sure to get stuck in your head.
And, of course, the titular title song: The Monster Mash.
Check it out here on YouTube - unless you have a VHS copy in your house!
What are some of your favorite holiday movies?
(Note: I am not paid for this blog. I use the names of things because - well - that's where credit is due.)
It's March, not the time of year for Halloween movies. And I was truly going to go with one that was more related to St. Patrick's Day.....until I realize I may have already done so. And this was on my YouTube watch list and I had such a fun time watching it.
I give you:
"Monster Mash: The Movie" (1995)
I couldn't find a decent image to post on here, so I challenge you to go onto the internet and look it up.
Right - the 90's were full of teenage-coming-of-age-always-in-trouble films and TV shows. Take "Full House" for instance....DJ Tanner is now the protagonist, with her boyfriend in a rather campy, musically fun flick.
"Romeo" and "Juliet" A.K.A. Scott and Mary are on their way to a Halloween party when their car breaks down. Lucky for them there's a rather frightening mansion close by that offers them refuge for the night.
No so luck, it's a house full of literal monsters!
I find this film rather dear because one of my favorite stage actors portrays Dracula (which was a rather big surprise for me when it came up on my playlist. I glanced the name in the opening credits and then freaked out when he started singing.)
With many twists and turns including: Dr. Frankenstein trying to transfer one brain to another body; vampires lusting for fresh blood; a wolf-man with an overbearing mother; a hunchback with a crush; a Mummy with a manager; and lots of campy songs sure to get stuck in your head.
And, of course, the titular title song: The Monster Mash.
Check it out here on YouTube - unless you have a VHS copy in your house!
(Note: I am not paid for this blog. I use the names of things because - well - that's where credit is due.)
Tuesday, February 7, 2017
Music Beats All
I find that music is rather soothing. It's calm, relaxing, meaningful . . . if you find the peaceful music for study time or while at work.
Or it can be quick, fast, scary, and overwhelming . . . perfect for a scary movie or horror flick.
Due to an awesome job where I can work from home, I have had plenty of time to scour youtube (okay not "plenty", I've barely scratched the surface) for some awesome music.
So - here are a few songs that I would like to share with you. Some of them are hour+ long, being compiled from various places.
Let's start out with some Gibli - this is a wonderful mix list that can send you back to awesome childhood memories.
Video Game music is rather awesome. Even if you don't play games the music can be rather catchy.
Movie Soundtracks will not be left out. There are some rather epic scores out there right now - I will try to add a few of my favorites. Dracula: Untold is one of my favorite movies and the music did not disappoint.
I couldn't not add this. I mean - just watch and you'll understand. *sigh*
Pretty - right?
You wouldn't believe how many concerts these guys have on youtube! This one in particular celebrates the early pioneers of the world.
I would be a sore musician if I didn't add some Jazz. I love this style of music. It's so classy, and soft, and awesome.
And I leave you with a man who does Rock covers of various songs. His phantom ones are my personal favorite. (All I Ask Of You)
What are some of your favorite songs to listen to?
What is the Go-To song for when you have a fantastic day?
Leave a comment below and I will answer!
(Note: I am NOT paid for any name dropping, or anything like that.)
Or it can be quick, fast, scary, and overwhelming . . . perfect for a scary movie or horror flick.
Due to an awesome job where I can work from home, I have had plenty of time to scour youtube (okay not "plenty", I've barely scratched the surface) for some awesome music.
So - here are a few songs that I would like to share with you. Some of them are hour+ long, being compiled from various places.
What are some of your favorite songs to listen to?
What is the Go-To song for when you have a fantastic day?
Leave a comment below and I will answer!
(Note: I am NOT paid for any name dropping, or anything like that.)
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
Halloween
There are lots of lists that I can make in regards to this amazing holiday: movies, horror flicks, horror video games, party ideas - you get the idea. Last week I covered the top 5 musicals/plays on Broadway.
While Halloween can be either fun and scary, or gory and gruesome; it all depends on which direction you take.
Here's a look a some of the best, "Classical", Halloween monsters that have graced the silver screen. Here they are - in no particular order (but I'll put my favorite last). Please Note - all pictures are taken from the internet - if I could have taken quite a few of these myself, I would have!
1. Frankenstein
1931 - this was the age when movies were coming out more frequently. The majority were in black and white, soundless until the early thirties. When the movie premiered, the actor who portrayed the monster was billed as ?????? This was to keep in the spirit of it being an actual monster. Boris Karloff cemented his acting in horror movies. Which leads us to -
2. The Mummy
Another classic flick from the thirties, this one came out in 1932. Karloff returned to don the wraps of Imhotep, a priest brought back to life centuries. He spends the entire time trying to find his reincarnited lover. This sparked a wonderfully fun three film series by Stephen Sommers back in the early 2000's. Sadly, it's getting rebooted again soon (don't see it!).
3. The Wolfman
1941 - This movie has quite a few infamous actors in it to bring the full-moon riser to light (not sure if that was a bad pun or not...) Lon Chaney Junior brings this cast of high bill-ers together as a man fated to becoming a bity wolfer. With an appearance from Bela Lugosi and Claude Raines, it's a flick sure to get you howling.
4. Dracula
1931 - Bela Lugosi didn't speak a word of English going into this film. Giving a stunning performance as the main vampire, this takes you from the haunted hills of darkest Transylvania to the elegant ballrooms and foyers of London. You will never hear, "Swan Lake" the same every again. Or see a full moon on a cloudy night the same either . . .
And Rounding the list of Top Five,
5. The Phantom of the Opera
1925 - A silent film so frightening, smelling salts were in hand for the infamous un-masking scene. The Man of a Thousand Faces would give a stellar performance that has lasted and endured through the ages. While other adaptations try to give it their all, this one is what gave every other adaptation a basis. Lon Chaney Senior, Mary Philbin, and Norman Kerry. Watch this in the dark. It changes everything.
What is your favorite old timey monster?
How about the new age monster?
Leave a comment below.
While Halloween can be either fun and scary, or gory and gruesome; it all depends on which direction you take.
Here's a look a some of the best, "Classical", Halloween monsters that have graced the silver screen. Here they are - in no particular order (but I'll put my favorite last). Please Note - all pictures are taken from the internet - if I could have taken quite a few of these myself, I would have!
1. Frankenstein
1931 - this was the age when movies were coming out more frequently. The majority were in black and white, soundless until the early thirties. When the movie premiered, the actor who portrayed the monster was billed as ?????? This was to keep in the spirit of it being an actual monster. Boris Karloff cemented his acting in horror movies. Which leads us to -
2. The Mummy
Another classic flick from the thirties, this one came out in 1932. Karloff returned to don the wraps of Imhotep, a priest brought back to life centuries. He spends the entire time trying to find his reincarnited lover. This sparked a wonderfully fun three film series by Stephen Sommers back in the early 2000's. Sadly, it's getting rebooted again soon (don't see it!).
3. The Wolfman
1941 - This movie has quite a few infamous actors in it to bring the full-moon riser to light (not sure if that was a bad pun or not...) Lon Chaney Junior brings this cast of high bill-ers together as a man fated to becoming a bity wolfer. With an appearance from Bela Lugosi and Claude Raines, it's a flick sure to get you howling.
4. Dracula
1931 - Bela Lugosi didn't speak a word of English going into this film. Giving a stunning performance as the main vampire, this takes you from the haunted hills of darkest Transylvania to the elegant ballrooms and foyers of London. You will never hear, "Swan Lake" the same every again. Or see a full moon on a cloudy night the same either . . .
And Rounding the list of Top Five,
5. The Phantom of the Opera
1925 - A silent film so frightening, smelling salts were in hand for the infamous un-masking scene. The Man of a Thousand Faces would give a stellar performance that has lasted and endured through the ages. While other adaptations try to give it their all, this one is what gave every other adaptation a basis. Lon Chaney Senior, Mary Philbin, and Norman Kerry. Watch this in the dark. It changes everything.
What is your favorite old timey monster?
How about the new age monster?
Leave a comment below.
Tuesday, October 18, 2016
Halloween on the Stage
I am a huge lover of the arts.
If I could live inside of a theatre, I would pack up and move in less than an hour. There would be so much to do - to see.
With the fall season, and the wonderful weather we're having, it seems only appropriate that I make a list of plays and musicals that will give you a few chills.
1. The Rocky Horror Show
First things first, "The Rocky Horror Show" is the musical you will see live on stage. "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" is the movie. This is a classic in and of itself because of the campy nature. With a guest appearance from Meatloaf, and the Time Warp (Again!) it's a must see for the beginning of the Halloween season.
2. Little Shop of Horrors
If a local theatre company is doing this, I suggest going over to take a look. It's another show that's sure to give you chills and double look at the plants in your house. With a movie that made two different endings (the stage version has a - well - best not to see it), it's sure to find a way into your heart. Plus, Rick Moranis.
3. The Addams Family
Come join the family for a reunion to die for. Everything's dark, creepy, but one thing's off - how can the world's favorite creepy family cope when their daughter falls in love? Take a seat, sit back, and let the Family show you what True Love is.
4. Dracula
It wouldn't be Halloween without our favorite vampire. Frank Wildhorn lends a beautiful mixture of music in this stage adaptation of Bram Stoker's infamous novel. While it follows rather closely to the source material, it takes on an etheral appearance. While you can find the whole show on youtube (which I highly recommend, in either English, or German), I suggest taking a listen to this soundtrack.
4. Into the Woods
This takes a whole new twist on the Grimm fairy tales. Journey through the woods with Cinderella, Jack, the Baker and his wife, Red Riding Hood, and the Witch. With all the wishes being made, it make for a tall order to fill. While the first act is light and cheerful, beware act two. Wishes have a price to be paid. Not everything ends well and happily ever after for some of our favorite fairy tale heroes and heroines.
5. The Phantom of the Opera
Finishing off my list, I'll leave you with the longest-running, well-known musical. The story of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the infamous opera house, writing operas for a young sorprano. The story takes us through the backstage working of the opera house, bringing together a mystery as to who the man in the mask is. With as many musical adaptations as there are movie versions, one of them is bound to give you the thrills and chills of a great horror movie. While I love the musical on Broadway, I would suggest renting the 1926 silent film, turning off all the lights, and let yourself become embroiled in Lon Chaney Sr.'s infamous unmasking scene.
What are some of your favorite horror plays? Musicals? Movies?
If I could live inside of a theatre, I would pack up and move in less than an hour. There would be so much to do - to see.
With the fall season, and the wonderful weather we're having, it seems only appropriate that I make a list of plays and musicals that will give you a few chills.
1. The Rocky Horror Show
First things first, "The Rocky Horror Show" is the musical you will see live on stage. "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" is the movie. This is a classic in and of itself because of the campy nature. With a guest appearance from Meatloaf, and the Time Warp (Again!) it's a must see for the beginning of the Halloween season.
2. Little Shop of Horrors
If a local theatre company is doing this, I suggest going over to take a look. It's another show that's sure to give you chills and double look at the plants in your house. With a movie that made two different endings (the stage version has a - well - best not to see it), it's sure to find a way into your heart. Plus, Rick Moranis.
3. The Addams Family
Come join the family for a reunion to die for. Everything's dark, creepy, but one thing's off - how can the world's favorite creepy family cope when their daughter falls in love? Take a seat, sit back, and let the Family show you what True Love is.
4. Dracula
It wouldn't be Halloween without our favorite vampire. Frank Wildhorn lends a beautiful mixture of music in this stage adaptation of Bram Stoker's infamous novel. While it follows rather closely to the source material, it takes on an etheral appearance. While you can find the whole show on youtube (which I highly recommend, in either English, or German), I suggest taking a listen to this soundtrack.
4. Into the Woods
This takes a whole new twist on the Grimm fairy tales. Journey through the woods with Cinderella, Jack, the Baker and his wife, Red Riding Hood, and the Witch. With all the wishes being made, it make for a tall order to fill. While the first act is light and cheerful, beware act two. Wishes have a price to be paid. Not everything ends well and happily ever after for some of our favorite fairy tale heroes and heroines.
5. The Phantom of the Opera
Finishing off my list, I'll leave you with the longest-running, well-known musical. The story of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the infamous opera house, writing operas for a young sorprano. The story takes us through the backstage working of the opera house, bringing together a mystery as to who the man in the mask is. With as many musical adaptations as there are movie versions, one of them is bound to give you the thrills and chills of a great horror movie. While I love the musical on Broadway, I would suggest renting the 1926 silent film, turning off all the lights, and let yourself become embroiled in Lon Chaney Sr.'s infamous unmasking scene.
What are some of your favorite horror plays? Musicals? Movies?
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