I'm writing a young adult novel set in medieval Japan.
I'm working on developing a boarding with a post-apocalyptic setting that utilized mechs.
I'm going to start casting resin pieces to add nice touches to games I already own (first project: Mount Doom for War of the Ring).
And I'd like to re-skin the blog with a Star Wars theme, to fit what feels to be a tremendous Star Wars year.
... More when I've actually accomplished something!
|
|
Showing posts with label The Nerd. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Nerd. Show all posts
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Monday, November 17, 2014
The Nerd isn't Dead, Only Dreaming
I suspect I've used that title before. Oh well.
I'm not dead. Just super busy at work and pretty exhausted afterwards. And there's this little monster at home that is against things like sleep or sanity (I knew we should have named her Cthulhu).
I want to write review on the most recent issue of Saga and how the Spiderverse event is going. So keep an eye out for that.
I picked up the new Call of Duty. It's enjoyable, but I find the novelty fades fairly quickly, and the weapons aren't balanced enough to promote switching things up.
Dragon Age: Inquisition comes out tonight. Assuming I don't fall sleep beforehand, I'm planning on picking it up at midnight and playing for a bit. I'll be surprised if I make it past the character creation...
This weekend I'll be attending a gathering of friends celebrating the release of the new Smash Bros... but playing the crap out of it all day. I might write a few thoughts afterwards.
TableTop Season 3 started. Check that out, the first episode is a solid one and they made me really want to get Tokaido :/
And I hate the announced title for the Star Wars film. But whatever, I'll avoid the rant on that one.e
Back to work. Or sleep. See which one wins...
I'm not dead. Just super busy at work and pretty exhausted afterwards. And there's this little monster at home that is against things like sleep or sanity (I knew we should have named her Cthulhu).
I want to write review on the most recent issue of Saga and how the Spiderverse event is going. So keep an eye out for that.
I picked up the new Call of Duty. It's enjoyable, but I find the novelty fades fairly quickly, and the weapons aren't balanced enough to promote switching things up.
Dragon Age: Inquisition comes out tonight. Assuming I don't fall sleep beforehand, I'm planning on picking it up at midnight and playing for a bit. I'll be surprised if I make it past the character creation...
This weekend I'll be attending a gathering of friends celebrating the release of the new Smash Bros... but playing the crap out of it all day. I might write a few thoughts afterwards.
TableTop Season 3 started. Check that out, the first episode is a solid one and they made me really want to get Tokaido :/
And I hate the announced title for the Star Wars film. But whatever, I'll avoid the rant on that one.e
Back to work. Or sleep. See which one wins...
Friday, January 17, 2014
Day... 16? Damn: Writer's Writing (of Words and Wonders)
Why does this month have so many damn days!
Whelp. I guess I'll talk a little bit about me and my writing style, I suppose. And I mean real writing, not this blog where I've been known to phone it in from time to time...
I enjoy reading science/speculative fiction and fantasy. Normally, that's also what I write. The book I've been working on most, mostly due to using it as my final project for my Creative Writing Master's, is actually a Young Adult Historical Fiction. I don't suppose that I'll only right YA, and it is unlikely I'll ever try historical fiction beyond this series either, but I've enjoyed branching out and find having to do so much research refreshing. Well, refreshing and somewhat frustrating due to not always finding the sources I'd like for my novel set in Japan during the late 1600s...
When I write, I generally have to set a schedule for myself. During the course of a day I may jot down notes related to any of the stories I'm working on, or even passages for works I don't KNOW I'm working on, but I can't get into actually writing unless I've set time aside for it and am relatively undisturbed. I don't schedule this in as often as I should, and I've got plenty of excuses as to why not -- every (poor) writer knows them, so I'll omit them for now.
Ever since I was a kid, I always imagined fantastic worlds or events. I assume I wasn't particular happy with what I was given and the books I was always reading offered so much more -- it is natural, then, that my imagination would bend in that direction. Putting these ideas on to the page, while difficult, has simply felt right. I won't say therapeutic, because my life has turned out pretty decently thus far, but these stories are always in the back of my mind and it is refreshing to clear up some space.
I have never been published. I've never completed something to the extent that I felt it was publishable. My current project, the YA novel, is the farthest I've ever come, and it is only just now starting the second draft/revision stage. So the tips I'm about to list should be taken with a grain of salt. Sure, I have an English BA and a Creative Writing MFA, but I've yet to get to the stage where all of these tips have proven their worth.
But read 'em anyways, because I said so.
1. Set no less than an hour a day for writing, and try to do it at the same time every day. If you do this, you will quickly get into the habit and writing will become easier for you. This is the hardest hurdle for me to get over since moving back to MA. Hopefully my schedule is solid now and I can start planning better, but we'll see.
1a. If you're worried about writer's block, don't be. Write about whatever. The act of writing will be your exercise, allowing you to build the appropriate muscles to beat the crap out of any blocks that hold you up. Also, it's entirely possible you'll find something useful in your daily exercises. I've found using prompts helps in that regards.
2. Only work on a single project at a given time (I suppose this one is more for novel/story writers). If a great idea pops up for your Steampunk/Private Detective novel, jot it down somewhere you'll remember it and then turn back to what you've been working on. This is the only way to finish a book, in my opinion. Otherwise you'll get caught up in the "creation" stage forever. This is almost like the "honeymoon" stage in relationships and, while it's great, it doesn't make a complete story (or relationship, to continue the metaphor).
3. Even if you're not sure where your story is going to wind up or the exact path it should take, keep writing! Even if it seems random or not always perfect, it doesn't need to be solid through the first draft. As you write more, you'll learn more about the characters, the world, and the relationships between. Then, when you are going for your next draft, you'll be that much more informed. You'll know what to cut, you'll have an idea of what imagery you should populate throughout, and you can keep an eye on character relationships to make sure they're heading where you need them to.
3a. Write on until you reach the end of the book. Do NOT revise midway through or try to keep every single thing coherent the first time through -- you'll never finish because something new WILL pop up. If a major character shows up for the first time towards the end of the book, that's fine -- you can work them in on the next draft.
4. It WILL take multiple drafts before your story ever approaches completion. Also, your story will more than likely never FEEL complete -- you'll have to use your best judgement. Then get someone else's opinion.
5. Speaking of other opinions, it is incredibly helpful if you can get into/find a workshop with other writers. You can have your work read and suggestions made from like-minded individuals, and you'll grow as a writer when you start doing the same for others. Both of my degrees gave me a decent amount of workshops as classes. There are, however, local workshops or online workshops you can find that are not affiliated with a school. You could also create a group yourself, if you know enough readers/writers.
6. Read relevant material to your current project, but not to the exclusion of everything else. You don't want to be a direct copy of your favorite author, you'll need to be your own writer. We generally develop out own styles as a mix of many others. I've been getting inspired via Lovecraft for my eventual Steampunk/Private Detective novel, but I don't plan on making it a horror story, or feature any monsters.
7. Don't give up! Even if you eventually realize the work you've been doing for the better part of a year isn't going to be what you expected or be successful, use what you've learned for your next story/project. Keep an eye out where you can possibly salvage scenes or characters or locations or themes from your now-defunct story. There's always a kernel of good when you write, even if you don't see it initially.
8. Don't be afraid to start over. Many novels started out in the first person, only to be changed after several drafts. It's a lot of work to change something like that, but it isn't impossible. Even if the story isn't working in general, you can always try again. Maybe the main character is wrong, drawing the wrong focus from then reader. Possible you need to add or remove characters. Don't be afraid to butcher your work.
8b. DO make copies of your work, and save them separately before each major edit. You don't want to change your 1st person novel completely through, only to realize it worked better in 1st and not have a copy of the original manuscript.
9. Use technology to your advantage.
9a. For storage and easy access, I use Dropbox for all of my stories. Then I can access it anytime from the internet, made even faster if you're able to download the application on multiple computers -- I have my folder on my computer, The Wife's laptop, my work computer, and several more locations.
9b. I don't want to pay for it so haven't yet, but Scrivener is something I will eventually pick up. It allows you to break up your work creatively, formats it however you'd like, and allows for very clear note-taking, timeline creating, and more. I'm a bit too cheap to drop $40 on it at the moment, but even the demo seemed as if it is the perfect writer's tool, no matter what you're writing.
10. Ask for help. If you need suggestions, you don't have to find all of them inside your own skull. You can ask friends, family, other authors, or even strangers for an opinion, thought, or preference. You can also do something as simple as people-watch at your local mall. Folks are always doing interesting things when they don't imagine they're being watched. Sure, that s
ounds a bit creepy, but I'm not telling you to go on Safari -- stake out in the cafeteria and just watch the tables around you. Have a notebook to jot down interesting tidbits of conversation or examples of unique characters. You don't have to use these notes, but they can be a fresh source of inspiration you won't get by sitting in front of your computer screen, idly pressing the space bar, hoping something brilliant will spring from your tired mind.
11. Do your research before blindly sending out your work to be published. There is a lot more that goes in in book publishing than any layman realizes, and it is a terrible, cruel, sanity-curdling beast if you aren't prepared. And it's just crappy when you are. So do your research and don't lose hope -- a rejection isn't the end of your creative career, it's part of the process.
Alright, that's all I've got for right now. Down the line, when I'm struggling with posts, I'll possibly post some prompts for potential writers out there. Keep an eye out for the "Writing Prompt" label.
Happy writing.
Whelp. I guess I'll talk a little bit about me and my writing style, I suppose. And I mean real writing, not this blog where I've been known to phone it in from time to time...
I enjoy reading science/speculative fiction and fantasy. Normally, that's also what I write. The book I've been working on most, mostly due to using it as my final project for my Creative Writing Master's, is actually a Young Adult Historical Fiction. I don't suppose that I'll only right YA, and it is unlikely I'll ever try historical fiction beyond this series either, but I've enjoyed branching out and find having to do so much research refreshing. Well, refreshing and somewhat frustrating due to not always finding the sources I'd like for my novel set in Japan during the late 1600s...
 |
| Trying to come up with authentic names is murder. |
Ever since I was a kid, I always imagined fantastic worlds or events. I assume I wasn't particular happy with what I was given and the books I was always reading offered so much more -- it is natural, then, that my imagination would bend in that direction. Putting these ideas on to the page, while difficult, has simply felt right. I won't say therapeutic, because my life has turned out pretty decently thus far, but these stories are always in the back of my mind and it is refreshing to clear up some space.
I have never been published. I've never completed something to the extent that I felt it was publishable. My current project, the YA novel, is the farthest I've ever come, and it is only just now starting the second draft/revision stage. So the tips I'm about to list should be taken with a grain of salt. Sure, I have an English BA and a Creative Writing MFA, but I've yet to get to the stage where all of these tips have proven their worth.
But read 'em anyways, because I said so.
My professional suggestions for potential authors (or writers of any kind, really):
1. Set no less than an hour a day for writing, and try to do it at the same time every day. If you do this, you will quickly get into the habit and writing will become easier for you. This is the hardest hurdle for me to get over since moving back to MA. Hopefully my schedule is solid now and I can start planning better, but we'll see.1a. If you're worried about writer's block, don't be. Write about whatever. The act of writing will be your exercise, allowing you to build the appropriate muscles to beat the crap out of any blocks that hold you up. Also, it's entirely possible you'll find something useful in your daily exercises. I've found using prompts helps in that regards.
2. Only work on a single project at a given time (I suppose this one is more for novel/story writers). If a great idea pops up for your Steampunk/Private Detective novel, jot it down somewhere you'll remember it and then turn back to what you've been working on. This is the only way to finish a book, in my opinion. Otherwise you'll get caught up in the "creation" stage forever. This is almost like the "honeymoon" stage in relationships and, while it's great, it doesn't make a complete story (or relationship, to continue the metaphor).
3. Even if you're not sure where your story is going to wind up or the exact path it should take, keep writing! Even if it seems random or not always perfect, it doesn't need to be solid through the first draft. As you write more, you'll learn more about the characters, the world, and the relationships between. Then, when you are going for your next draft, you'll be that much more informed. You'll know what to cut, you'll have an idea of what imagery you should populate throughout, and you can keep an eye on character relationships to make sure they're heading where you need them to.
3a. Write on until you reach the end of the book. Do NOT revise midway through or try to keep every single thing coherent the first time through -- you'll never finish because something new WILL pop up. If a major character shows up for the first time towards the end of the book, that's fine -- you can work them in on the next draft.
4. It WILL take multiple drafts before your story ever approaches completion. Also, your story will more than likely never FEEL complete -- you'll have to use your best judgement. Then get someone else's opinion.
 |
| Love the smell of giant, red x's in the morning... |
5. Speaking of other opinions, it is incredibly helpful if you can get into/find a workshop with other writers. You can have your work read and suggestions made from like-minded individuals, and you'll grow as a writer when you start doing the same for others. Both of my degrees gave me a decent amount of workshops as classes. There are, however, local workshops or online workshops you can find that are not affiliated with a school. You could also create a group yourself, if you know enough readers/writers.
6. Read relevant material to your current project, but not to the exclusion of everything else. You don't want to be a direct copy of your favorite author, you'll need to be your own writer. We generally develop out own styles as a mix of many others. I've been getting inspired via Lovecraft for my eventual Steampunk/Private Detective novel, but I don't plan on making it a horror story, or feature any monsters.
7. Don't give up! Even if you eventually realize the work you've been doing for the better part of a year isn't going to be what you expected or be successful, use what you've learned for your next story/project. Keep an eye out where you can possibly salvage scenes or characters or locations or themes from your now-defunct story. There's always a kernel of good when you write, even if you don't see it initially.
8. Don't be afraid to start over. Many novels started out in the first person, only to be changed after several drafts. It's a lot of work to change something like that, but it isn't impossible. Even if the story isn't working in general, you can always try again. Maybe the main character is wrong, drawing the wrong focus from then reader. Possible you need to add or remove characters. Don't be afraid to butcher your work.
8b. DO make copies of your work, and save them separately before each major edit. You don't want to change your 1st person novel completely through, only to realize it worked better in 1st and not have a copy of the original manuscript.
9. Use technology to your advantage.
 |
| It's my file and I want it now! |
9b. I don't want to pay for it so haven't yet, but Scrivener is something I will eventually pick up. It allows you to break up your work creatively, formats it however you'd like, and allows for very clear note-taking, timeline creating, and more. I'm a bit too cheap to drop $40 on it at the moment, but even the demo seemed as if it is the perfect writer's tool, no matter what you're writing.
10. Ask for help. If you need suggestions, you don't have to find all of them inside your own skull. You can ask friends, family, other authors, or even strangers for an opinion, thought, or preference. You can also do something as simple as people-watch at your local mall. Folks are always doing interesting things when they don't imagine they're being watched. Sure, that s
ounds a bit creepy, but I'm not telling you to go on Safari -- stake out in the cafeteria and just watch the tables around you. Have a notebook to jot down interesting tidbits of conversation or examples of unique characters. You don't have to use these notes, but they can be a fresh source of inspiration you won't get by sitting in front of your computer screen, idly pressing the space bar, hoping something brilliant will spring from your tired mind.
11. Do your research before blindly sending out your work to be published. There is a lot more that goes in in book publishing than any layman realizes, and it is a terrible, cruel, sanity-curdling beast if you aren't prepared. And it's just crappy when you are. So do your research and don't lose hope -- a rejection isn't the end of your creative career, it's part of the process.
Alright, that's all I've got for right now. Down the line, when I'm struggling with posts, I'll possibly post some prompts for potential writers out there. Keep an eye out for the "Writing Prompt" label.
Happy writing.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Revenge of the Nerd!
I'm back! Ish! We've moved into the MA house and are in the process of getting settled. My work situation and schedule are still up in the air, so I won't go on record saying expect regular postings starting now, but you can certainly expect more very soon!
Today I am working on finishing The Podcast is a Lie's late podcast (hopefully finalize by the end of the day). I'd also like to set up the Nerd-Cave as much as possible (recognizing that I don't have much in the way of furniture down here yet...).
Towards the end of the week, I have some more time off and will bring my Pull List Reviews up to date (though it will be a synopsis of where the PLR is more than an individual title review, sorry!).
I'm also hoping to convince the Wife to allow me to see Riddick this weekend, even though we just bought a house, so there will (hopefully) be a movie review soon as well.
And, today or later in the week, I'll be doing a write up of news in the X-COM world. Be prepared, because the alien menace is hasn't let up just yet!
Alright, to the podcast! ... This is my first time being the sole editor on a 'case due to Steve's absence, hence the delay and, possibly, the quality... We'll see!
 |
| Casa de Nerd. Well... Sotano de Nerd, anyway. |
Today I am working on finishing The Podcast is a Lie's late podcast (hopefully finalize by the end of the day). I'd also like to set up the Nerd-Cave as much as possible (recognizing that I don't have much in the way of furniture down here yet...).
Towards the end of the week, I have some more time off and will bring my Pull List Reviews up to date (though it will be a synopsis of where the PLR is more than an individual title review, sorry!).
I'm also hoping to convince the Wife to allow me to see Riddick this weekend, even though we just bought a house, so there will (hopefully) be a movie review soon as well.
And, today or later in the week, I'll be doing a write up of news in the X-COM world. Be prepared, because the alien menace is hasn't let up just yet!
Alright, to the podcast! ... This is my first time being the sole editor on a 'case due to Steve's absence, hence the delay and, possibly, the quality... We'll see!
Monday, June 10, 2013
The Podcast is a Lie
Remember that podcast I mentioned I was joining?
Our first episode is up!
Listen to it here then follow us here:
Facebook
Twitter
Feedburner
PodOmatic
Leave a comment and let me know what you think!
Our first episode is up!
Listen to it here then follow us here:
Feedburner
PodOmatic
Leave a comment and let me know what you think!
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Just Another Cosmic Pooch
Name: Lyco
Barks
Notable Aliases: Ranak
Darkness
on the Edge of Town
狂犬
Attended: Punk Rock
Church
Workplace: Clubs
and the Cosmos
 |
| Hungry Heart |
Who is this pretentious goofball? Goofy I am. I’ll be the
first to shoot my own ego down. But don’t let that stop anyone out there from
giving me some kicks. This pup can take it.
I’m a proud resident of Hope Street and a true believer in the
power of fictional superheroes. I’ve learned more from a 22 page comic and “a 3
minute record” than I “ever learned in school” (Springsteen, 1984). I’m also
the lead singer and rhythm guitarist in a Japanese Ramones cover band, though
we’re looking into doing some original tunes. Occasionally I moonlight as a
chaos magician and mystify drunk salary men with my tarot.
I want to kindly thank the Nerd for extending the invitation
to write on his arbitrary blog. I look forward to leaving future scribbles of
hopefully worthy additions of insights into arbitrariness. There’s plenty of
randomness going on in my head to share.
 |
| Space is a valuable commodity |
I’m too humble or lack the moxy to claim to be a master
of all things DC, though sometimes I like to think I’m PreNew52’s Tim “Robin
III” Drake’s biggest fan and that I’ve seen and read every Grant Morrison
interview I could find. I would probably own Gardner Fox’s entire Silver Age
Justice League run or all the Jack Kirby Omnibuses if only international
shipping rates were cheaper on Amazon.
One of the
pitfalls of living in Manga Land Japan is limited access to U.S. comics. I’ve scoured a country
a little smaller than California
for the allusive American consumer product. I manage to get my monthly fix from
digital comics with their gorgeous backlighting on a computer screen. Currently
I’m enjoying Batman Inc, Justice League, Justice League of America, Wonder
Woman, but might be picking up forthcoming Justice League Dark issues after liking Pete Milligan’s opening
arc, and catching up on Animal Man.
For the
immediate future I’ll be reviewing Grant Morrison’s recently completed Action Comics, Geoff Johns’ Shazam
backups from Justice League, and Wonder Woman beginning from #15 and
onwards.
Be seeing you.
Saturday, May 25, 2013
The Guest Writer and The Podcast
Remember that time I mentioned I had two exciting updates? Well, here they are:
First, The Arbitrary Nerd will be getting a new guest writer, Lyco, master of all things DC Comics (well, certainly more than me, anyway) and a current resident of Japan (yeah, we just went global).
Expect an intro post from Lyco soon and, following that, some brand new content about things I know little about!
The second bit of news is that, starting in the next week or so, I've been asked to work on a brand new podcast with some like-minded (and not so like-minded) nerdy folks. I believe we're doing our first test recording next week. Keep an eye out for The Podcast is a Lie, where we'll be talking about all things nerd culture. Any stuff. Yeah, stuff.
That's it for now, but swing by soon to check out all the new stuff happening just around the corner. Also, bring a friend or two and convince them to follow us -- it boosts my ego and gives me the warm and fuzzies.
-The Nerd
First, The Arbitrary Nerd will be getting a new guest writer, Lyco, master of all things DC Comics (well, certainly more than me, anyway) and a current resident of Japan (yeah, we just went global).
Expect an intro post from Lyco soon and, following that, some brand new content about things I know little about!
The second bit of news is that, starting in the next week or so, I've been asked to work on a brand new podcast with some like-minded (and not so like-minded) nerdy folks. I believe we're doing our first test recording next week. Keep an eye out for The Podcast is a Lie, where we'll be talking about all things nerd culture. Any stuff. Yeah, stuff.
That's it for now, but swing by soon to check out all the new stuff happening just around the corner. Also, bring a friend or two and convince them to follow us -- it boosts my ego and gives me the warm and fuzzies.
-The Nerd
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Good, Bad, and Ugly: Camp-Fest Edition
Howdy Folks,
I know it's been a bit since my last post and I'm sorry for the delay. I've haven't had too much spare time to spend on comics, movies, or video games -- instead I'm busy with work, grad classes, and finishing up my final project.
Oh, and maybe looking to move a few states away (back to Ye Olde Massachusetts). More on that when there's more on that.
For now, I thought I'd bring you a brief post about things I have been making time for: Campy Movies!
The Evil Dead 2 builds upon its predecessor. Well, actually, in the first five minutes it retcons its predecessor so it can continue with a different actress playing Ash's girlfriend, but then it is a direct sequel. Confusing at the start, it quickly gets better. Ash is a much more interesting hero than the uni-browed coward from the first film, and the supporting cast is slightly more interesting.
The monsters, while still looking terrible, are MUCH better, and even the trees are less perverted (more on that later). There still doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to how the monsters work, per se, but we get over that because of just howawesome goofy manly bad-ass Ash his. I mean, he replaces his hand with a chainsaw! Come on!
I rate this movie, on a scale of campy awesomeness, as a solid 9. It's enjoyable, and you can probably skip the first one without losing TOO much. Well, maybe.
All Superheroes Must Die
There is nothing redeemable about this movie. The hero costumes are tacky (which is ok), the characters themselves are mostly 1 dimensional, the back story is given in awkward black and white scenes in such a way that we REALLY don't care about the characters, and the actors themselves are pretty damn bad. The bad guy and the lead hero maybe are in the ok zone for a campy film, but the other three are absolute rubbish.
The worst part, though, is the way they portray the female protagonist. Not only is she 100% useless in the film (she literally sits there and watches her partner/sometimes lover get SLOWLY gutted), her only actionable moment is to die (presumably) with the man she loves instead of accepting his sacrifice. Her character would have single-handedly brought down the film for me if it wasn't all together terrible.
That being said, the premise wasn't the worst I'd seen, hence why I rented it. Someone, please make a better movie out of it soon. As it stands, I'd rate it at a 2/10, simply for the plot existing and attempting to be used. And the one reveal towards the end of the film was almost interesting.
This was, I believe, Sam Raimi's first film. It is a pretty rough start. The characters are unlikable and at best completely stupid. The monsters look awful. A bunch of trees actually rape a girl. And, the worst part, the main character is a tepid coward with a uni-brow who does more or less nothing effective in the entire film.
And I'm really confused by why the monsters MUST come in the doors when they've been shown smashing into windows before (... and those windows are still WIDE open). Maybe this was supposed to reflect the characters going insane instead of any external threats actually existing, I'm not sure, but it was pretty bad.
That being said, it is completely acceptable in that it leads us to Evil Dead 2 and eventually Army of Darkness (a movie I particularly enjoy).
I rate it was a 5/10. It is crappy camp, but it obviously has potential.
Ok, next you'll either be seeing my review of the first arc of Thor: God of Thunder or the quick Pull List Review I'm very late on. We'll see!
I know it's been a bit since my last post and I'm sorry for the delay. I've haven't had too much spare time to spend on comics, movies, or video games -- instead I'm busy with work, grad classes, and finishing up my final project.
Oh, and maybe looking to move a few states away (back to Ye Olde Massachusetts). More on that when there's more on that.
For now, I thought I'd bring you a brief post about things I have been making time for: Campy Movies!
The Good
Evil Dead 2
The Evil Dead 2 builds upon its predecessor. Well, actually, in the first five minutes it retcons its predecessor so it can continue with a different actress playing Ash's girlfriend, but then it is a direct sequel. Confusing at the start, it quickly gets better. Ash is a much more interesting hero than the uni-browed coward from the first film, and the supporting cast is slightly more interesting.The monsters, while still looking terrible, are MUCH better, and even the trees are less perverted (more on that later). There still doesn't seem to be any rhyme or reason to how the monsters work, per se, but we get over that because of just how
I rate this movie, on a scale of campy awesomeness, as a solid 9. It's enjoyable, and you can probably skip the first one without losing TOO much. Well, maybe.
The Bad
All Superheroes Must Die
There is nothing redeemable about this movie. The hero costumes are tacky (which is ok), the characters themselves are mostly 1 dimensional, the back story is given in awkward black and white scenes in such a way that we REALLY don't care about the characters, and the actors themselves are pretty damn bad. The bad guy and the lead hero maybe are in the ok zone for a campy film, but the other three are absolute rubbish.
The worst part, though, is the way they portray the female protagonist. Not only is she 100% useless in the film (she literally sits there and watches her partner/sometimes lover get SLOWLY gutted), her only actionable moment is to die (presumably) with the man she loves instead of accepting his sacrifice. Her character would have single-handedly brought down the film for me if it wasn't all together terrible.
 |
| They're all pretty awful. |
The Ugly
Evil DeadThis was, I believe, Sam Raimi's first film. It is a pretty rough start. The characters are unlikable and at best completely stupid. The monsters look awful. A bunch of trees actually rape a girl. And, the worst part, the main character is a tepid coward with a uni-brow who does more or less nothing effective in the entire film.
 |
| My cat, Durgin, watching Evil Dead with me. |
And I'm really confused by why the monsters MUST come in the doors when they've been shown smashing into windows before (... and those windows are still WIDE open). Maybe this was supposed to reflect the characters going insane instead of any external threats actually existing, I'm not sure, but it was pretty bad.
That being said, it is completely acceptable in that it leads us to Evil Dead 2 and eventually Army of Darkness (a movie I particularly enjoy).
I rate it was a 5/10. It is crappy camp, but it obviously has potential.
Ok, next you'll either be seeing my review of the first arc of Thor: God of Thunder or the quick Pull List Review I'm very late on. We'll see!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Comic Tour to the Capitol
Hi All,
Just wanted to post that you can find the Twitter recap of our trip to Washington, DC here: #comicsandcapitol.
Stay tuned for some PLRs soon and possibly some news on another social media front. I'm playing around with the idea of incorporating a Tumblr into this mess...
Highlights from the trip:
I picked up a bunch of Ultimate X-Men, including at least 30 consecutive issues that I can start reading now, which will bring me up to issue 69 (I have some later issues, but refuse to read series out of order).
I was able to find a good amount of Exiles comics for cheap, including the first 10 or so issues, meaning I can start reading the series.
DASH RENDAR ACTION FIGURE! YES!
I found some sets I didn't know I wanted, completed a few sets I've been hunting for for awhile, and found a few random series that look worth following up on.
Biggest finds for me were probably the random issues of Y the Last Man, Wasteland, and Preacher. They are all somewhat difficult to find series that, up until this trip, I'd not had a single issue of. And I managed to find all these in $1 or 50 cent bins.
Speaking of bins, the best comic shop from the trip would have to be Main Street Comics in Milltown, NJ. It was relatively small, but 90% of their back issues were in ORGANIZED $1 bins. Normally, cheap bins are disorganized messes that you dig through for hours and HOPE to find an issue or two you're looking for. I was able to pick up a ton of good stuff here and will hopefully find time to swing by again before moving back to MA.
Honorary mention to Captain Blue Bird Comics and Stormwatch Comics, the last two stops on our trips that I also really enjoyed and sported a good selection of cheap bins.
Oh, also, DC was a lot of fun. It was cold and windy, which made it like an adventure (at one point it even seemed like a Post Apocalyptic adventure). My favorite part would have to be the Dinosaur Exhibit in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Not only do I love dinosaurs, the Wife does too!
Ok, that's all for now.
Just wanted to post that you can find the Twitter recap of our trip to Washington, DC here: #comicsandcapitol.
Stay tuned for some PLRs soon and possibly some news on another social media front. I'm playing around with the idea of incorporating a Tumblr into this mess...
Highlights from the trip:
 |
| Day 1 Haul |
I was able to find a good amount of Exiles comics for cheap, including the first 10 or so issues, meaning I can start reading the series.
DASH RENDAR ACTION FIGURE! YES!
I found some sets I didn't know I wanted, completed a few sets I've been hunting for for awhile, and found a few random series that look worth following up on.
Biggest finds for me were probably the random issues of Y the Last Man, Wasteland, and Preacher. They are all somewhat difficult to find series that, up until this trip, I'd not had a single issue of. And I managed to find all these in $1 or 50 cent bins.
Speaking of bins, the best comic shop from the trip would have to be Main Street Comics in Milltown, NJ. It was relatively small, but 90% of their back issues were in ORGANIZED $1 bins. Normally, cheap bins are disorganized messes that you dig through for hours and HOPE to find an issue or two you're looking for. I was able to pick up a ton of good stuff here and will hopefully find time to swing by again before moving back to MA.
Honorary mention to Captain Blue Bird Comics and Stormwatch Comics, the last two stops on our trips that I also really enjoyed and sported a good selection of cheap bins.
Oh, also, DC was a lot of fun. It was cold and windy, which made it like an adventure (at one point it even seemed like a Post Apocalyptic adventure). My favorite part would have to be the Dinosaur Exhibit in the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History. Not only do I love dinosaurs, the Wife does too!
 |
| Rare sighting of the elusive Nerd... |
Ok, that's all for now.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
The Nerd's Bucket List
I know, I know, I should be working on my Pull List Review. I'll have another post up by the end of the week. For now, however, I feel like talking about me!
I discovered my birthday present a bit early (aka as the Wife showed me but told me I can't have it until February), and it was an item that I have always wanted. I jokingly said that it was something I could scratch off the ol' Nerd Bucket List. The Wife, doing what wives do, asked what else was on the list. And I said...
Nothing. I was stumped. Normally, I find the idea of Bucket Lists kind of silly (what are you supposed to do when you complete it, commit seppuku?), but a list of nerdy things I wanted to do in my life but hadn't done yet appealed to me.
And so I will (attempt) to start a Nerd Bucket List in this post. I'll add items in the future as they come to me (using the tag Bucket List so they can be quickly compared), but this will serve as the base:
------------------------------
Own Darth Revan 30th Anniversary Fan's Choice Figure
First item on, first item off. I'm a HUGE fan of Darth Revan (from the Knights of the Old Republic video game, as well as The Old Republic MMO), and the Wife got me this figure, as well as Darth Malak (again, Knights of the Old Republic) and some other misc figures. She knows me so well!
-Go to a Star Wars Celebration
I've always wanted to attend one of these, but they always fell during important dates at school/work (working in Higher Education, specifically Residence Life and Housing, means we end up training every year around the Celebration). Hopefully next year the dates will align better! Also... hopefully Disney being on board doesn't change anything too much! Speaking of Disney (and Star Wars)...
-Go to a Star Wars Weekend at Disney World
This kind of goes hand in hand with the above, but the Wife and I love Disney World and I think it would be perfect to go on one of their Star Wars days. We haven't done it yet because A) it isn't exactly cheap and B) I really dislike crowds, and nothing draws a crowd at Disney like Star Wars days (or so the internet tells me).
-Get Published in a Fandom
One of the blog writers I follow, Amy Ratcliffe from Geek With Curves, just got published in Star Wars Insider #138. I wouldn't mind being published in a magazine of a fandom I relate to, but even more I'd love to get a fiction story published -- say a Star Wars novel or the like. First, I'll need to finish and get something of my own published, but I'm hoping my MFA Thesis course next semester will get me pretty close to that goal. Then I'll work towards this step.
-(UPDATE!)Play Star Wars Battlefront 3
This is kind of a risky one, simply because there's no confirmation the Battlefront 3 will ever come out (no matter how much I pester Lucas Arts Games on Twitter). That being said, I loved the originals and think, with today's technology and game comparisons, a third installment will be amazing and a matter of time. Update: Battlefront 3 was announced! Yes! This is totally going to happen!!!
And now that it's on my Bucket List, I guess Lucas Arts needs to get on this, or won't they feel silly?
-Go to San Diego Comic Con
I love Boston Comic Con (I've been several times) and enjoyed NYCC (I went once), but San Diego seems so far away that I never really imagined I'd make it. Then, to my surprise, the Wife said she was sad we missed it -- she had seen some new and events at the convention and was actively interested (NOTE: the Wife is NOT a nerd, despite all my attempts to turn her to the Nerd Side). So this is making it on the list with hopes for a future SDCC!
If you're asking why I wouldn't go by myself... Well, I REALLY don't like crowds, but I feel marginally better with a friendly face.
-Get Retweeted by Nathan Fillion
I love that guy.
-See Star Wars Episodes 7-9
I mean, I know they're coming out now and I know I'll see them... so let's get something I can definitely mark off this thing.
-Watch Every Episode of Star Wars with my Children
I don't have any children yet but, one day, they WILL watch Star Wars.
-Own Every Issue of Amazing Spider-Man
This got infinitely easier now that the series ended.
You know, unless it starts back up. Again. Which I expect (hope) it will.
-(NEW!)Play a boardgame with Wil Wheaton
I see no reason why this would EVER come to pass, but I enjoy everything Wil Wheaton has done recently and I especially love his YouTube show on the Geek and Sundry Channel, TableTop.
------------------------------
That will have to do for now. As I said before, I will continue to add to this as time goes on, so if any suggestions that you feel fit here, let me know in the comment section below!
I'm actually looking forward to crossing these off. I rescind my previous opinion on Bucket Lists.
P.S. I wonder if almost knocking author Nick Flynn over at a reading should go on here... It WOULD be nice to have another item crossed off my list...
I discovered my birthday present a bit early (aka as the Wife showed me but told me I can't have it until February), and it was an item that I have always wanted. I jokingly said that it was something I could scratch off the ol' Nerd Bucket List. The Wife, doing what wives do, asked what else was on the list. And I said...
Nothing. I was stumped. Normally, I find the idea of Bucket Lists kind of silly (what are you supposed to do when you complete it, commit seppuku?), but a list of nerdy things I wanted to do in my life but hadn't done yet appealed to me.
And so I will (attempt) to start a Nerd Bucket List in this post. I'll add items in the future as they come to me (using the tag Bucket List so they can be quickly compared), but this will serve as the base:
------------------------------
THE NERD'S BUCKET LIST
- |
| WOOOOOT! One down! |
-Go to a Star Wars Celebration
I've always wanted to attend one of these, but they always fell during important dates at school/work (working in Higher Education, specifically Residence Life and Housing, means we end up training every year around the Celebration). Hopefully next year the dates will align better! Also... hopefully Disney being on board doesn't change anything too much! Speaking of Disney (and Star Wars)...
-Go to a Star Wars Weekend at Disney World
This kind of goes hand in hand with the above, but the Wife and I love Disney World and I think it would be perfect to go on one of their Star Wars days. We haven't done it yet because A) it isn't exactly cheap and B) I really dislike crowds, and nothing draws a crowd at Disney like Star Wars days (or so the internet tells me).
 |
| I guess Disney doesn't like us as much as we like it... |
-Get Published in a Fandom
One of the blog writers I follow, Amy Ratcliffe from Geek With Curves, just got published in Star Wars Insider #138. I wouldn't mind being published in a magazine of a fandom I relate to, but even more I'd love to get a fiction story published -- say a Star Wars novel or the like. First, I'll need to finish and get something of my own published, but I'm hoping my MFA Thesis course next semester will get me pretty close to that goal. Then I'll work towards this step.
-(UPDATE!)Play Star Wars Battlefront 3
This is kind of a risky one, simply because there's no confirmation the Battlefront 3 will ever come out (no matter how much I pester Lucas Arts Games on Twitter). That being said, I loved the originals and think, with today's technology and game comparisons, a third installment will be amazing and a matter of time. Update: Battlefront 3 was announced! Yes! This is totally going to happen!!!
And now that it's on my Bucket List, I guess Lucas Arts needs to get on this, or won't they feel silly?
-Go to San Diego Comic Con
I love Boston Comic Con (I've been several times) and enjoyed NYCC (I went once), but San Diego seems so far away that I never really imagined I'd make it. Then, to my surprise, the Wife said she was sad we missed it -- she had seen some new and events at the convention and was actively interested (NOTE: the Wife is NOT a nerd, despite all my attempts to turn her to the Nerd Side). So this is making it on the list with hopes for a future SDCC!
If you're asking why I wouldn't go by myself... Well, I REALLY don't like crowds, but I feel marginally better with a friendly face.
 |
| Nathan Fillion! |
I love that guy.
-See Star Wars Episodes 7-9
I mean, I know they're coming out now and I know I'll see them... so let's get something I can definitely mark off this thing.
-Watch Every Episode of Star Wars with my Children
I don't have any children yet but, one day, they WILL watch Star Wars.
-Own Every Issue of Amazing Spider-Man
This got infinitely easier now that the series ended.
You know, unless it starts back up. Again. Which I expect (hope) it will.
-(NEW!)Play a boardgame with Wil Wheaton
I see no reason why this would EVER come to pass, but I enjoy everything Wil Wheaton has done recently and I especially love his YouTube show on the Geek and Sundry Channel, TableTop.
------------------------------
That will have to do for now. As I said before, I will continue to add to this as time goes on, so if any suggestions that you feel fit here, let me know in the comment section below!
I'm actually looking forward to crossing these off. I rescind my previous opinion on Bucket Lists.
P.S. I wonder if almost knocking author Nick Flynn over at a reading should go on here... It WOULD be nice to have another item crossed off my list...
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
The Nerd on Writing
I'm still inundated with writing my final projects for my last grad class this week, so I figured I'd take a moment (aka procrastinate) to talk about my favorite part of writing, instead of a normal week's Extra! Extra! It'll be a short-ish post, but here goes:
When it comes to writing, my favorite thing is world building. More than just creating something from nothing, I'm able to put the myriad of ideas swirling about inside my head into a great big crock pot, cook 'em to perfection, and then out comes a new world.
Right now, I'm writing one Sci-Fi story set on a space station orbiting the earth, a post-apocalyptic story about the education system, and have bits and pieces written down about a story set a bit into the future from where we are today, where someone invents super powers.
The best part is, I plan on them all taking place in the same world, eventually.
For me, world building is simple. I can answer the little questions that pop up and have no problem adapting bigger issues here and there. I struggle with conflict, however, which catches me up in the end -- Man vs. Environment only gets me so far.
My favorite novels are all around interestingly developed worlds, and they don't have to be excessive fantasy -- Orson Scott Card has several series that take place a bit in the future and still manage to feature a really interesting world slightly different from our own. Then again, I do enjoy my excessive fantasy -- Lois McMaster Bujold's The Curse of Chalion creates an entire world, its politics, and its own active pantheon.
I haven't yet gotten over the hurdles in my way to finish a story -- it's much easier to begin something than to slog through to the end, but I'm working on it (and, with my These Project coming up next semester, I'm pretty sure I'll be forced to finish something). I'll post here when I'm farther in with my works and maybe I'll talk a bit about the pieces themselves.
In the meantime, any aspiring writers out there? That's your favorite thing about writing? What do you think your best writing skills are? Or, you know, general tips for other writers?
Stop by tomorrow (or, more likely, Thursday) for this week's Hunting Game(s), I'll be posting my backlog/wishlist (just in time for the holidays, no less!)!
When it comes to writing, my favorite thing is world building. More than just creating something from nothing, I'm able to put the myriad of ideas swirling about inside my head into a great big crock pot, cook 'em to perfection, and then out comes a new world.
Right now, I'm writing one Sci-Fi story set on a space station orbiting the earth, a post-apocalyptic story about the education system, and have bits and pieces written down about a story set a bit into the future from where we are today, where someone invents super powers.
The best part is, I plan on them all taking place in the same world, eventually.
For me, world building is simple. I can answer the little questions that pop up and have no problem adapting bigger issues here and there. I struggle with conflict, however, which catches me up in the end -- Man vs. Environment only gets me so far.
My favorite novels are all around interestingly developed worlds, and they don't have to be excessive fantasy -- Orson Scott Card has several series that take place a bit in the future and still manage to feature a really interesting world slightly different from our own. Then again, I do enjoy my excessive fantasy -- Lois McMaster Bujold's The Curse of Chalion creates an entire world, its politics, and its own active pantheon.
I haven't yet gotten over the hurdles in my way to finish a story -- it's much easier to begin something than to slog through to the end, but I'm working on it (and, with my These Project coming up next semester, I'm pretty sure I'll be forced to finish something). I'll post here when I'm farther in with my works and maybe I'll talk a bit about the pieces themselves.
In the meantime, any aspiring writers out there? That's your favorite thing about writing? What do you think your best writing skills are? Or, you know, general tips for other writers?
Stop by tomorrow (or, more likely, Thursday) for this week's Hunting Game(s), I'll be posting my backlog/wishlist (just in time for the holidays, no less!)!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Extra! Extra! Trade Paper Back Edition
Before we start this weeks rendition of "Extra! Extra!", I wanted to introduce the Nerd! He's swung his way onto the banner (in his Scarlet Nerd outfit) and will be popping up in a few other places as well (like my Twitter icon).
I'm contemplating adding a supporting cast to the blog, but I'm not 100% sure what that'd look like. More on this later!
Alright, onto the reading! The five Trade Paper Backs (which I defined at the end of this post, for those getting in late in the game) listed below can probably be found as single issues, I just personally find that they are better collected as one volume.
Note: These are all DC and Marvel, simply because I haven't collected much else in TPB form. As I work more alternative companies into my collection, I will consider making an Independent TPB list.
That was a little difficult -- I didn't want to cover anything previously seen. Stories like Old Man Logan and Maximum Carnage could have been up here just as easily, though I'm still happy with the above list.
Next Week: X-Men! This will be interesting because I'm not overly familiar with X-Men. I'll keep it to what I know and can actually suggest, but I'd love suggestions on any of these posts for further reading of my own!
I'm contemplating adding a supporting cast to the blog, but I'm not 100% sure what that'd look like. More on this later!
Alright, onto the reading! The five Trade Paper Backs (which I defined at the end of this post, for those getting in late in the game) listed below can probably be found as single issues, I just personally find that they are better collected as one volume.
Note: These are all DC and Marvel, simply because I haven't collected much else in TPB form. As I work more alternative companies into my collection, I will consider making an Independent TPB list.
The story is told from the perspective of Norman McCay, a minister who has begun to receive visions from Wesley Dodds that show the end of the world. Dodds meets The Spectre, who takes Dodds on a trip to watch the apocalyptic events unfold. The story really picks up when a major disaster is caused by the new Matahuman community and Wonder Woman tries to convince Superman to come out of retirement and help teach the new generation how to be heroes. The heroes of the past have to reunite and overcome the new generation of heroes, the past generation of villains, and, more importantly, themselves. This book gets an 8/10 from me, mostly because I love dystopian/apocalyptic/darker future settings. The artwork isn't my favorite but it is solid throughout. Collects issues #1-4 |  |
This tale is seen from the eyes of X-51 (Machine Man), who has been brought to the Moon by Uatu to replace him as the new Watcher. X-51 watches from above as the world begins to tear itself apart, unaware of the impending doom coming in the form of the Celestials. Without spoiling anything, we see the future of many prominent characters, and none of them are good: Spider-Man has been replaced by her daughter (the current wearer of the Venom symbiote), Captain America has quite the Avengers, considering himself unfit after killing the Red Skull, the Hulk and Banner have split but chosen to stick together for reasons quickly made obvious, and Iron Man is the last remaining human. That's just a small selection covered in this grand tale, which spans 12 numbered issues and several specials. This book gets another 8/10 for me. I enjoyed seeing the alternate futures shown and the story kept me interested throughout. I dislike the art for the most part, but it is at least consistent. So far I have read half of the first sequel, Universe X, but have not enjoyed it as much. I've heard that the third chapter in the trilogy, Paradise X, isn't any better. Collects issues #0-12, as well as #X |  |
Peter decides to use his new powers to take down Osborn and his gang, who were responsible for the grisly murder of his social activist uncle, Ben Parker. The dark setting and story as well as the different images of the prominent characters make this story stick out. The art is dark and gritty and fits a Noir style well, getting an 8/10 for me. It's a bit short, unfortunately, and therefore a bit rushed. There is a sequel, titled Eyes Without a Face, but I have yet to pick it up. Collects issues #1-4 |  |
I normally don't read much that involved the Avengers, and almost nothing under the title "The Mighty Avengers", but this features a Venom-Virus that runs rampant through New York City, causing its inhabitants to turn into symbiote-like monsters. The Avengers have to fight them off without turning themselves. Then they have to find out who's responsible and stop them as well -- but who in their right mind would create a virus based off of Venom? You get an internet cookie if you guess without peeking! This gets another 8/10 from me (which, if you haven't gathered, is a pretty good rating). I appreciate the inclusion of symbiotes being taken on by someone other than Spidey. The writing is done well and the story overall is interesting. I don't rate it higher simply because I don't care for The Mighty Avengers and this trade makes up all the issues I own with them. Collects issues #7-11 |  |
This is the first of three installments that make up the "KnightSaga", and this particular collection features Bane's now-famous breaking of Batman -- although that comes after Bane releases the prisoners from Arkham Asylum, causing some of Batman's most dangerous enemies to be set on Gotham. The Bat has his work cut out for him, and it won't end well. The next to installments feature story elements you didn't see in the movies and turns this story into an epic. I won't rate this one only because I have yet to complete it. That being said, it is definitely one of the best values listed simply because of the amount of issues that are collected within, and the story has definitely become a classic. I plan on doing a more in-depth review once I've finished the entire Saga, and I will put my review score there. Collected issues Batman: Vengeance of Bane Special #1, Batman #491-500, Detective Comics #659-660, Showcase '93 #7 and 8 and Batman: Shadow of the Bat #17-18 |  |
That was a little difficult -- I didn't want to cover anything previously seen. Stories like Old Man Logan and Maximum Carnage could have been up here just as easily, though I'm still happy with the above list.
Next Week: X-Men! This will be interesting because I'm not overly familiar with X-Men. I'll keep it to what I know and can actually suggest, but I'd love suggestions on any of these posts for further reading of my own!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)