Vampy Book Review: The Hunger, Whitley Strieber

book reviews

imgresBack in September, I wrote a review of the film version of, The Hunger a movie best remembered for a love scene between a vampy Catherine Deneuve, and a fetching Susan Sarandon. Good times!

imgres-1As I said then, the movie, which I first saw years ago, may have influenced the sensual and sensuous vampires I created in Blood Diva. But the movie is a mess. The ending made no sense whatsoever and was tacked on at the studio’s insistence in case there was a sequel. But taking that second look at it, made me curious about the book. There happened to be a cheap used hardcover over on the Amazon so I went for it. (Just checked today, and you probably won’t have such luck. The KINDLE VERSION IS $15.99!)

First off, the changes from book to film aren’t just about telling a story visually. They are substantial to the point where it’s not even a question of which was better. Each can be judged on its own terms. The film has much greater style, but in terms of substance and coherence, the book wins. Second, if you came here looking for a quick thumbs up or down, you might have come to the wrong place… (Please click here to read the rest!)

The Americans — What’s Bugging You? (S3 E7- Recap)

Kay Gardella Memorial TV Review Blog

Greetings Comrades! What did they get wrong this week on The Americans? While Russia may have been on the right side of history regarding the need to abolish apartheid in South Africa, and there might have been some communist influence in the ANC, mostly the struggle was won because the world evolved, and democratically oriented activists throughout the world — including on American college campuses, worked hard to make divestment a reality. The world was watching thanks to brave journalists who reported the violence and riots. And of course there was that prisoner on Robin Island who became a symbol to everyone. So no, children, the movement to free South Africa was NOT a communist plot.

Rant done.

Now please head over to HNTP to read my snarky take on this week’s episode.

Better Call Saul Recap (S1, E6) Pop Pop

Kay Gardella Memorial TV Review Blog

You can read my complete and detailed recap up on HNTP as usual. From perusing the other reviewers and recappers it’s clear last night’s episode may be the most divisive. Some of the high brow critics are calling it “stunning.” Certainly, Jonathan Banks’ performance was. There was also the usual beautifully composed shots, and thoughtful soundtrack. But it felt like too much of a pander to Breaking Bad fans.  Mike’s past wasn’t far different that what many of us had no doubt imagined, but did we really need to see it?

Why don’t you head over to the recap now, and let me know what you think?

And if you really applaud my efforts and all, thank me by buying one of my amazingly underpriced books.