M. Pax's Blog, page 19

RoboVampire: #SciFi #MovieReview

So much went on in this movie and it didn’t all seem to belong in the same movie. It begins in the basement of a drug gang and they’re putting drugs in coffins. Oh, wait no, there’s a scene before that, but it doesn’t matter. We’ll start in the basement. A bunch of beings stand around like with their arms sticking straight out.

They start to wake up and attack the bumbling drug stockboys.  Because!! The drugs are not drugs, it’s rice powder, which pisses off the vampires. Fighting ensues involving bottle rockets shooting out of the vampires’ arms, bunny hopping – yes, the vampires bunny hop, which cracked me up every time – and some martial arts.

Never fear! The wizard saves the day by sticking bits of paper on the vampires’ heads. He controls the vampires with a sword, theatric arm gestures, and bits of paper. The vampires work with the drug gang.

Cue a subplot – the ghost and the vampire. This vampire looked like an ape.

His true love is a ghost. Husband Unit said her see-through top was the only plus in the whole movie. Later she goes completely topless. Ooo! Anyway, she makes a deal to work with the wizard to be with her vampire love again. The deal doesn’t last long and I have no idea why. If you want this movie to make sense, you’ll miss out on all the fun. The ghost and vampire have sex in a ghost/vampire way. I guess that’s what it was. All the same, it made me laugh.

Another drug gang is in the movie. I wasn’t sure how they fit in exactly. Don’t think too hard about it, though. You’ll just wind up with a headache. Anyway, the bad guys capture some drug agents. One gets killed and is turned into Robocop. Another dude is hired to rescue the captured drug agents.

I know this sounds disconnected, but so was the movie. The Robocop really had nothing to do with the rest of the plot. I think the plot was about Tommy rescuing the captured drug agents, but I can’t be certain.

To sum up: I was uber entertained by the bunny hopping vampires shooting fireworks out of their arms. Boobs were the only redeeming highlight in husband unit’s opinion. He said this movie required four beers. I said three. So we settle out at 3.5.

 

If you’re so inclined, you can watch it for free on YouTube:

 

 

The post RoboVampire: #SciFi #MovieReview appeared first on M. Pax.

Captain Talos: Navigating the Backworlds with Unwavering Determination #scifi #sciencefiction

In the vast expanse of the Backworlds, where remote planets and hidden systems hold untold hardships, one character stands out as a beacon of hope, resilience, and unbridled passion for exploration: Captain Talos. Hailing from the planet Doka, Talos’s journey from a life of struggle to becoming a remarkable captain is a tale of inspiration and determination that resonates.

The Early Days on Doka

Talos’s story begins on the planet of Doka, a world on the edge of the central planets of the Backworlds. Raised by a loving mother, his life took a tragic turn when she succumbed to a deadly plague, which was a remnant from the Foreworld War. Left orphaned and adrift, Talos faced the harsh realities of life on Doka. He didn’t lose his heart, however. He gave away his only pair of shoes to help a gal who had a chance to get off Doka. On Doka, there is little opportunity. The nobles remain noble, and the rest remain riffraff.

A Fateful Meeting

Fate intervened in the form of a chance encounter with Lepsi, a fellow Backworlder who would become Talos’s lifeline. With a borrowed coin from Lepsi, Talos found a glimmer of hope. The coin permitted him to buy a new pair of shoes to beg for work. Only, he found a better opportunity at the docks where a cargo ship needed of crew.  This put him in a position to help Lepsi at a later point. Together, they embarked on a journey that would change the course of their lives.

The Pursuit of Dreams

With Lepsi’s unwavering companionship, Talos ventured into the fringes of the Backworlds, seeking new horizons and experiencing the wonders of the galaxy. It was during these journeys that he encountered Craze and found a place to call home on Pardeep Station. Talos’s loyalty and ability to redraw the line between hero and villain made him popular among the residents of Pardeep Station.

Friendship and Heartbreak

Talos’s devotion to Lepsi was unwavering, and he considered Lepsi his dearest friend. When Lepsi mysteriously went missing, Talos was left heartbroken and determined to uncover the truth. The discovery of a crucial clue about Lepsi’s disappearance only fueled Talos’s determination. He was relentless in his pursuit of answers, showcasing his resilience and the depth of his friendships.

A Love Discovered

Amidst his adventurous exploits, Talos found love in the Backworlds. However, his insatiable desire to explore the galaxy shows no signs of slowing down. He dreams of establishing his own trade route, yet the passion for a specific trade eludes him.

An Indomitable Spirit

Captain Talos, the aviarman from Doka, exemplifies the spirit of exploration, friendship, and perseverance that defines the Backworlds series. His journey from poverty and loss to becoming a renowned captain is a testament to the power of determination and the enduring bonds of friendship. As readers follow his adventures through the galaxy, they are sure to be inspired by his indomitable spirit and unwavering pursuit of his dreams, making him a cherished character.

Start the Backworlds series with The Backworlds. Available at all retailers. Shopping direct from me really helps me make a living as an author, so thank you. Sign up for my newsletter to get the new release, Escape from Doka. This novel covers some of the early adventures of Talos and Lepsi. It’ll be availabe only through my newsletter.

Backworlds              BUY DIRECT

Amazon Links: US / CA / UK / AU / DE / FR / ES / IT / NL / JP / BR / MX / IN

 

 

 

 

The post Captain Talos: Navigating the Backworlds with Unwavering Determination #scifi #sciencefiction appeared first on M. Pax.

Fantasy Worth Reading: Legends & Lattes #BookReview #fantasybooks

I loved Legends & Lattes by Travis Baldress so much, I’ve read it 3 times. I even pre-ordered his next book, which is due out in November.

A cozy fantasy about an orc named Viv, who is pursuing her happily ever after, I was glued to the page from the moment I started. There’s a little magic and a little mystery, but mostly there’s charm. This book had me tearing through the pages, and I finished it in a mere few hours.  What’s so captivating about it? Everyone can relate to the pursuit of a dream and taking a chance on yourself.

This book was recommended by my library staff, so I’m not the only one who fell in love with it. The novel showcases the author’s ability to craft a richly imagined world, populated by memorable characters filled with heart. Viv often doubts and second-guesses herself, and the city has never heard of coffee. So, she has an uphill battle to get customers.

The pages are like a warm hug as Viv hangs up her sword and purchases a coffee machine. Never have I ever been so entranced by the creation of baked goods and whether a fantasy city will want coffee. I hung on every word. A simply marvelous novel, and highly, highly recommended. I give it more than 5 stars. It’s rare for me to read a book this fast since becoming an adult.

Here’s the blurb:

After a lifetime of bounties and bloodshed, Viv is hanging up her sword for the last time.

The battle-weary orc aims to start fresh, opening the first ever coffee shop in the city of Thune. But old and new rivals stand in the way of success — not to mention the fact that no one has the faintest idea what coffee actually is.

If Viv wants to put the blade behind her and make her plans a reality, she won’t be able to go it alone.

But the true rewards of the uncharted path are the travelers you meet along the way. And whether drawn together by ancient magic, flaky pastry, or a freshly brewed cup, they may become partners, family, and something deeper than she ever could have dreamed.

The post Fantasy Worth Reading: Legends & Lattes #BookReview #fantasybooks appeared first on M. Pax.

Sneak Peak at a new Backworlds Adventure: Escape from Doka #scifi #sciencefiction

Here’s your exclusive look at my new novel, Escape from Doka: A Backworlds Adventure. This will be free to everyone on my mailing list in December 2023! You won’t be able to get this Talos and Lepsi adventure any other way. JOIN

Excerpt

At the door beside the gate, Lepsi pressed his hand to the lock. It slid open, revealing the city and all its chaos. The lords’ homes were on streets lined with trees that sprawled like umbrellas with tiny orange flowers. The flowers smelled sweet, disguising the odors of traffic and the masses.

Beeps and shouts and squealing engines blasted Lepsi’s ears, and the swarm of folks hanging around jumbled in a mosaic of color. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust before he could make out individual people. Twenty of them moved toward him like a burp, threatening to topple him with the force of their momentum and stench.

One bloke fell to his knees, a bloke with shorn blue hair and bare feet, an aviarman like Lepsi and his family. “I need shoes to get a job. Please, brother. Once I’m employed, I’ll pay you back. Promise.” The blue hair signaled common blood.

The other supplicants backed away and left. Obviously, they couldn’t offer to repay Lepsi.

“I carry no chips on me,” Lepsi answered and refrained from fingering the coin in his pocket.

“Maybe lend me a pair of shoes, then?” The fellow blinked at Lepsi’s fancy footwear. “Maybe you have something you wear for gardening or the like, mate?” The cuffs on his canvas shirt were frayed and stained.

“What happened to your shoes?”

“A gal I met on her way to the docks needed them. She had a job offer on Elstwhere, including the fare. Someone has to make it out of this wretched hovel, brother. The gatekeepers don’t let you on a shuttle without shoes, ‘n no employer will speak to me about work without shoes.”

The last thing Lepsi needed was another brother. “Did you know her? The gal?”

“No.”

“What if she made up the story?”

“Then I don’t want to know. I want to think at least my shoes made it off Doka.”

Lepsi could empathize with such a hope. Thrusting his hand into his pocket, he fished out the coin and gave it to the fellow. “Here. I hope my chip will help you earn your way off this planet. But I don’t know where you can buy a pair of shoes for a mere chip.” Lepsi hoped the fellow knew where to buy what he needed. Lepsi wanted his chip to do as much for this young man as the young man’s shoes did for that gal.

“A sterling chip? This will more than do. May the galaxy grant your every wish.” Standing, the fellow shook Lepsi’s hand longer than was polite. “You’ll have your chip back, mate. I promise.” Waving, he ran off up the street.

Lepsi felt as empty as his pocket. He didn’t know why, didn’t know why he regretted the stranger leaving. He didn’t even know his name. “I’m an idiot,” he sighed, heading in the opposite direction, toward the better shops.

 

Get the Book! Get FREE Posters!

Included with the free novel will be a free poster pack of scenes and characters from Escape from Doka: A Backworlds Adventure. Don’t miss out! JOIN

 

excerpt, copyright of M. Pax, 2023, all rights reserved

 

The post Sneak Peak at a new Backworlds Adventure: Escape from Doka #scifi #sciencefiction appeared first on M. Pax.

October’s Ebook Extravaganza: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Steals and Deals Await! #SciFi #ScienceFiction #Fantasy #freebooks

October’s ebook offerings are nothing short of spectacular for lovers of fantasy and science fiction. Whether you’re into free ebooks, bundled collections, or unbeatable deals, there’s something here to satisfy your reading cravings. So, grab your e-reader, cozy up with a warm beverage, and embark on a literary journey that will transport you to realms beyond your imagination. Don’t miss out on these incredible steals and deals—start exploring today!

Wide World of Fantasy and Sci-Fi Free Ebooks

Explore the Fantasy & Sci-Fi Worlds

Start your October reading adventure with a collection of free ebooks spanning the wide worlds of fantasy and science fiction. From urban fantasy to paranormal romance, this assortment of free reads will transport you to otherworldly realms without costing you a dime.

 

\

KOBO PLUS Sci-Fi & Fantasy Book Fair

Enter the KOBO PLUS Book Fair

If you’re a fan of Sci-Fi and Fantasy and happen to be a KOBO PLUS subscriber, you’re in for a treat! Visit a Book Fair brimming with thrilling titles that are absolutely free with your subscription. Explore distant galaxies, uncover magical realms, and embark on epic journeys—all at your fingertips.

https://bookfunnelimages.com/images/c...

 

Epic Worlds of Sci-Fi and Fantasy

Embark on Epic Adventures

For those who crave epic adventures and captivating world-building, this collection is a dream come true. Gobble up tales of heroes and heroines navigating fantastical realms and facing unimaginable challenges. It’s time to lose yourself in epic stories that will leave you craving more.

 

\

Collections, Anthologies, & Boxed Sets – October Edition

Discover Collections & Anthologies

October brings you a ton of collections, anthologies, and boxed sets that promise hours of immersive reading. Delve into curated selections that offer a diverse range of stories, each one more captivating than the last. Find your next favorite read among these carefully crafted collections.

 

Sci-Fi and Fantasy MegaSale October

Explore the MegaSale

For those who can’t resist a great deal, the Sci-Fi and Fantasy MegaSale in October is a must-visit. Dive into a treasure trove of discounted books, bundles, and exclusive offers that will transport you to distant galaxies and magical realms without breaking the bank.

 

Free Fantasy on Amazon, B&N, Apple, Kobo…

Get Your Free Fantasy Reads

Last but not least, if you’re looking for free fantasy ebooks across various platforms like Amazon, B&N, Apple, and Kobo, this collection has you covered. Enjoy a wide selection of fantastical adventures that won’t cost you a penny.

 

 

The post October’s Ebook Extravaganza: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Steals and Deals Await! #SciFi #ScienceFiction #Fantasy #freebooks appeared first on M. Pax.

A Month to Celebrate Bravery and Survival. Go Pink and Fight for the Girls!

 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when people worldwide come together to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection and treatment. Breast cancer is a disease that affects millions of lives every year. It affected my life this year, and I met so many others in the same fight. If you feel something wonky, go to a doctor immediately. Get your mammogram! The earlier you know, the more likely you are to win the battle and go on with your life.

So many women went before me and were so brave. Their experiences made mine a little easier and made my survival more likely. I am forever grateful to them. Let’s take a moment and think of them and their sacrifices. Take a moment to think of the women currently suffering through chemo and other treatments, and of the men. Breast cancer affects men as well as women. Lend them your strength. Lend them some kindness.

 

The Most Common Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with over 2 million new cases diagnosed annually. The incidence rate varies by region, with higher rates in developed countries. Early detection and improved treatments have led to a decline in breast cancer mortality rates in recent years. Yay! Go warriors!

Facts About Breast Cancer

1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Chances are, you know at least one person who has been personally affected by breast cancer. If you’re reading this, you know me.

There are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

An estimated 43,700 U.S. women will die from breast cancer in 2023. Bless their souls.

Risk of breast cancer recurrence depends on the type and staging of the initial breast cancer. Typically, the highest risk of recurrence is during the first few years after treatment and decreases over time.

On average, every 2 minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States.

Signs and Symptoms

Nipple tenderness or a lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area

A change in the skin texture or an enlargement of pores in the skin of the breast  (some describe this as similar to an orange peel’s texture)

A lump in the breast. Not all lumps are cancerous, but you need to get it checked out.

I had no pain or tenderness, but I did have a lump. It showed up all of a sudden. I didn’t delay medical intervention. That’s really important. I had a fast growing, evil beast trying to kill me. Don’t give it a chance to kill you.

Treatment and Hope

Treatment regimens depend on what kind of cancer you have. Most start with surgery and then have radiation treatments. If hormones are a factor, treatments to counteract the hormones will be given. Some get oral chemo or a few rounds of chemo. I had the unlucky kind, which is less common, triple-negative breast cancer. That involved chemo, surgery, and radiation in that order. I’m about to start my radiation treatments. No matter the type of breast cancer, many warriors have gone before you. The treatments work, especially if the cancer is caught early.

Yeah, it’s been a rough year and chemo was no picnic, but the outcome has been the best. I had a total response to treatment, which means I no longer have evidence of cancer, which means the cancer is dead. Because I had a life-threatening reaction to one of the drugs for one of my chemo regimens, I couldn’t complete all of my chemo rounds. Yet, I still had a positive outcome.

So Get Your Mammogram!

Early detection means everything. Aggressive cancers can show up betweem mammograms, like mine. So even if you have a great mammogram and find something funky later, see a doctor. The ealier the cancer is found, the less likely it is to have infiltrated the lymph nodes and other parts of your body. The less body parts involved, the easier surgery and radiation will be. Don’t think you can’t afford a mammogram or treatment. There are tons of programs out there to help. Reach out. You’re not alone. There are currently over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. And we’ll all tell you the same thing, you’re going to be fine. Most cancer centers have social workers with the means to get you what you need to win the fight. Hell yes, it’s scary, and it’s daunting, but millions of us did it. So can you!

Survivors and Victors!

Breast cancer survivors are living proof that early detection, advanced treatments, and unwavering support can lead to successful outcomes. Here I am. I’m your proof. I didn’t do it alone. I had so much support, and there are all the women and men who went before us so that we can have successful outcomes. There are constant clinical trials to improve treatments and there are standardized regimens for every type of breast cancer. Even if you end up with the uncommon, more difficult kind like I did, you’re going to be okay. Just be brave and see a doctor!

Get Involved!

If you’re lucky enough to have never danced with the beast, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is still an opportunity to get involved and make a difference. You can participate in fundraising events, support organizations that provide vital services to patients and families, and promote breast cancer awareness on social media. Or support someone you know going through it.

I’ll be donating all proceeds from the sales of any of my poster packs, especially the cancer poster pack, to Sara’s Project, which promotes women’s health through education, provides outreach, funds research, and finances breast cancer support services.

Posters for Charity

 

Fight like a girl! Pink is powerful!

Stats taken from BreastCancer.org

 

 

The post A Month to Celebrate Bravery and Survival. Go Pink and Fight for the Girls! appeared first on M. Pax.

Thrilling Adventure: The Rifters Box Collection on Sale for Just 99 Cents! #fantasy #fantasybooks #monster

A gripping saga of monsters and Earth’s desperate fight for survival. The Rifters Box Collection: Books 1-3, now available at an incredible price of just 99 cents!

Discover the Rifters

The Rifters Box Collection is a captivating trilogy set in the enigmatic town of Settler, Oregon, where a monstrous secret lurks in the backwoods—an ancient portal that connects our world to a staggering forty-two other universes. These visitors, though often terrifying, have had unintended, devastating effects on our world. But recently, their destruction has taken a more deliberate turn.

Meet the Heroes

At the heart of this fantasy steampunk series are two unlikely heroes who must rise to the challenge of defending Earth against the growing threat from the other universes. Daelin Long, a librarian with a unique gift for communicating with ghosts, must join forces with an outlaw from 1888 to protect our world from the impending doom. Their weapons are crafted from coils, gears, and crystals.

The Rifters Box Collection Includes 3 Monstrous BooksThe Rifters: Daelin Long, seeking a fresh start after a traumatic incident in New York City, takes on the role of a county librarian in Settler, Oregon. However, her sparkling, new life is marred by the mysterious disappearance of her younger sister and a series of gruesome murders where peope in town are missing their heads. Daelin soon stumbles upon Settler’s deepest and darkest secrets, leading her down a path of unimaginable peril.The Initiate: Daelin Long joins the Rifters, hoping to uncover clues about her lost sister’s whereabouts. Instead, she confronts an unprecedented menace—a swarm of killer bees like no other. These bees begin as harmless pebbles but deliver fiery stings that can prove deadly. Her first lesson with the Rifters is clear: absolute trust in her fellow protectors. However, Daelin holds her sister’s secrets close to her heart, and this trust isn’t easily reciprocated.The Reader: As Daelin Long rises through the ranks of the Rifters, the rift closes for the season. Her sister remains trapped on the other side, and with the rift sealed, the town should be quiet. Instead, a new nightmare unfolds as ghosts come to life, and the townsfolk mysteriously disappear. Daelin and the Rifters face their greatest challenge yet, fighting a relentless monster without the energy of the rift to power their extraordinary weapons.Reviews

“The world Pax creates here is like the Wild West meets Ghostbusters with some Stargate and a bit of Steampunk thrown in. Even though everything seems a bit familiar, it’s not, which is what makes it compelling.”CHOOSE YOUR OWN END

“This book catapults the reader right in mid-events and, like Daelin, one is forever trying to figure out the ins and outs of the situation. Though readers have one advantage in that we are prepared to believe. However, what in some books can be annoying, becomes an enjoyable ride, where you are constantly excited to see where the plot will take you next. I really enjoyed the slightly wacky and off center world of Settler.” AMAZON

Don’t Miss Out!

This great deal at 99 cents won’t last forever. Get your copy today and embark on an unforgettable adventure that spans across forty-two universes.

Ebook available at all retailers

Shopping direct from me really helps me make a living as an author, so thank you. Sign up for my newsletter for coupon codes to my store. You can also find my books at your favorite online bookstore.

Rifters Box 1-3                BUY DIRECT

 

Collect Pins and Posters!

Already a Rifters fan? Collect your favorite characters from The Rifters series with my character pins. Each pin is a unique, high-quality collectible that captures the essence of your favorite characters. Start your collection today and bring the world of The Rifters to life! GET PINS

Or collect the posters! Poster Pack 1 / Poster Pack 2

 

 

The post Thrilling Adventure: The Rifters Box Collection on Sale for Just 99 Cents! #fantasy #fantasybooks #monster appeared first on M. Pax.

Off the Beaten Path: Ashwood, Oregon #NaturePhotography #NatureBeauty #photography

Ashwood, Oregon: A Haunting Glimpse into Central Oregon’s Past

In the heart of Central Oregon, Ashwood stands as a silent sentinel of a bygone era. Once a bustling town, it now lies in ruins, a ghost town echoing with the whispers of history.

A Brief History

Ashwood’s story begins in the late 1800s when it was founded as a homesteading community. Its proximity to the Deschutes River and the promise of fertile land attracted settlers looking to make a new life in the wilderness. By the turn of the 20th century, Ashwood had blossomed into a thriving town with a school, post office, and several businesses.

The Decline

However, Ashwood’s glory days were short-lived. The town’s fortunes waned as the timber industry declined, and the construction of nearby highways diverted traffic away from its once-bustling streets. The closure of the post office in the 1970s marked the symbolic end of an era. Today, Ashwood stands as a shadow of its former self, a place where time has seemingly stopped.

Exploring Ashwood

Visiting Ashwood is like stepping into a time capsule. The dilapidated buildings that line its streets are a testament to its past, with some structures dating back to the early 1900s. The old schoolhouse, in particular, is a hauntingly beautiful relic, its walls covered in graffiti and its windows long shattered. The eerie silence that envelops Ashwood is broken only by the whispering wind, lending an almost otherworldly quality to the experience.

The Legends

Of course, no ghost town is complete without its legends. Ashwood has its fair share of ghost stories, from phantom footsteps echoing in the night to whispers of long-lost settlers still roaming the area. While skeptics may dismiss these tales as mere folklore, they add an extra layer of intrigue to this already enigmatic place.

 

 

The post Off the Beaten Path: Ashwood, Oregon #NaturePhotography #NatureBeauty #photography appeared first on M. Pax.

#SciFi Worth Reading: Mintari A World of Dinosaurs #BookReview #scifibooks

In the captivating world of Mintari by Daniel Arenson, readers are transported to a remote planet where dinosaurs roam once again. This thrilling dinosaur adventure captures the imagination, reminiscent of the excitement and wonder sparked by Jurassic Park. From the pristine landscapes to the heroic endeavors of Jurassic Joe, Arenson’s storytelling prowess brings to life a world teeming with ancient beasts and danger.

I love my dinosaur stories and, honestly, most disappoint me. Mintari didn’t. At the heart of the story is Jurassic Joe, a legendary figure known as a defender of dinosaurs and a relentless foe of poachers. As a semi-mythical ranger who resides in the untamed wilderness of Mintari, Jurassic Joe embodies the spirit of adventure and heroism. Tragedy has Joe wallowing in a cave, nursing his pain.

Meanwhile, Simone LaRue needs to jumpstart her floundering journalism career and flies off to Mintari to find Jurassic Joe. Getting the scoop on him will get her back in everyone’s good graces. Only, she is unaware that she is being used by a ruthless businessman – Joe’s estranged father.

The backstory of each of the main characters is complicated and intricately woven so that they collide. With lots of dino action and bad guys worth hating, Mintari was a novel I enjoyed. Here’s the blurb:

Dinosaurs. Majestic giants. They’ve captured our imagination for generations. On planet Mintari, they live again.

Mintari is far from Earth. Wild. Pristine. A world where triceratops herd across grasslands, pterosaurs soar over golden mountains, and T-rexes prowl the misty forests.

But these magnificent beasts might soon disappear. And only one man can save them.

They call him Jurassic Joe. A semi-mythical figure. A ranger who lives in the wilderness of Mintari. Defender of dinosaurs. Bane of poachers. Folk hero. But is he real?

He better be. Because big game hunters are landing on Mintari. A lot of them. It will take a hero to stop them. And they must be stopped. Or the dinosaurs of Mintari will be lost forever.

The post #SciFi Worth Reading: Mintari A World of Dinosaurs #BookReview #scifibooks appeared first on M. Pax.

The Black Demon: Monster #MovieReview

I love my shark movies, and I love some bad movies. One of my favorites is Sharknado.

The Black Demon is no Sharknado. It didn’t have enough shark or a high enough body count. On the plus side, it was a really, really huge shark. Actually, it was a megalodon. There have been three movies in recent times featuring this giant shark, and they have all failed to truly take advantage of the size of the shark. If you’re going to have a giant shark as a monster, well, have it do things only a giant shark can do. Otherwise, why bother having a giant shark?

The premise of the movie is interesting. Environmental changes in the area brought on by the oil rig just off the coast, cause the ancient gods to awaken and the giant shark. The acting wasn’t great – the emotional reactions were way over the top, there were shifts in the logic of the story that didn’t make sense, and there were scenes just stuck in there for the sake of a message. Honestly, I don’t mind those things because they were funny, and a decent bad movie should make you laugh. There was a speech that reminded me of Jurassic Park and another that reminded me of Armageddon. Both excellent disaster/monster movies, by the way. I give the moviemakers bonus points for invoking thoughts of better movies.

I knew from the narrated explanation at the beginning of the movie (like they did in many old sci-fi movies) that this fell into the B movie category. Only B movies do that sort of thing, so I had hopes for this one falling into the bad but fun category.

However, there is no saving the fact that the shark has hardly any screen time and not very many people get eaten. The body parts in the water suggest there was a feast at some point, but we don’t get to see it. There is a fair amount of tension and drama. But because we don’t get to see the shark very often, I have to give this a 2.5 beer rating. I would go lower, but the movie is watchable for the most part and kind of fun if you don’t expect too much. The lack of shark is just disappointing.

It’s currently streaming on Amazon.

Here’s the trailer:

 

 

The post The Black Demon: Monster #MovieReview appeared first on M. Pax.