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T.L. Spencer's Blog, page 26
February 8, 2013
Top Ten Transformations
"Keep Calm and Read More", that's my motto. But every now and again, films are awesome too. So, with that in mind, here are my fave novel adaptations...
Ten:
Eclipse, by Stephanie MeyerYes, here is another guilty pleasure, and in my opinion the best book adaptation of the entire saga. All the details from within the novel are captured within the film and I believe this is all down to the director, David Slade (30 Days of Night). Though many (including me on occasion) find aspects of the Twilight tale slightly convoluted, verging on twisted, Eclipse is a brilliant film. The action scenes are immense and the actors have really made the effort to make facial expressions!
Nine:
The Queen of the Damned, by Anne RiceI know, I know, Anne Rice fans are reading this and screaming at the screen but I love this! It could be Stuart Townsend, but it could also be the script and the soundtrack. It may not be as accurate as Interview With a Vampire but I feel that this film has a little more 'fang' in it; the atmosphere created is just immense!
Eight:
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne CollinsI had reservations about this film; the book was quite descriptive and dark. And I did not like Katniss... at all. But I was pleasantly surprised! The film was extremely good. Though there were some aspects that could have been built on, like the character interaction between Katniss and Peta, overall the transformation from book to screen was done well. Especially when you consider the violent/political subject and magnitude of the entire novel itself.My favourite bit of the film was the shooting! Awesome! Seven:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, by J.K RowlingThough I love all the Harry Potter books and films, the best adaptation to me is certainly the last one. The past decade (eight films) has been so much fun but several of the films have had their own issues. One or two have left out important details and even caused book lovers some confusion. But this film is simply epic!!! I have raved about this film before but I will do it again; tear jerking elements, action, laughter, shock... WOW. Just WOW. Six:
The Notebook, by Nicholas SparksThe book made me cry, the prose was incredibly touching and really showed the difficulties of dealing with illness. The film also made me teary... I am not one to cry at movies, but this really did pull at the heartstrings. As an adaptation, it works very well. I loved this. With a capital 'L'. Five:
A Walk to Remember, by Nicholas SparksI love this. This is my favourite Sparks novel and (this is odd) I love the film even more; it is one of the only films that I prefer to the novel. The good girl/bad boy relationship dynamic is lovely and the added complication of cancer really adds a sense of maturity to the entire film. Though it has a sad ending, it is soooooo romantic and leaves you sitting on the sofa with a smile. Four:
Emma, by Jane AustenI am a massive Austen fan and simply love this adaptation. Again, as with every adaptation, there are elements that have been missed, over edited etc, but even taking these into account, I still love this film. The cast is superb; Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong have great chemistry and the script is fantastic! Very well done. Bronze:
Sense and Sensibility, by Jane AustenScreenplay by Emma Thompson and you can't go wrong! This certainly deserves the bronze position and is a firm favourite. Though not my favourite novel, I love this book; it has humour, love, loss and scandal! It's like a soap opera in the 19th century! Brilliant. And the movie is just like it. Silver:
Jane Eyre, by Charlotte BronteDirected by Cary Fukunaga, this adaptation preserves the bleak and secretive atmosphere that both Jane and Mr Rochester generate throughout their intense and emotional interactions. It is great. Yes, some character details are dimmed but the sheer drama and passion of the novel is all there. Also, the music is exquisite. Gold:
Pride and Prejudice, by Jane AustenOkay, so this is technically not a film. But it's my favourite. Enough said.
Ten:
Eclipse, by Stephanie MeyerYes, here is another guilty pleasure, and in my opinion the best book adaptation of the entire saga. All the details from within the novel are captured within the film and I believe this is all down to the director, David Slade (30 Days of Night). Though many (including me on occasion) find aspects of the Twilight tale slightly convoluted, verging on twisted, Eclipse is a brilliant film. The action scenes are immense and the actors have really made the effort to make facial expressions!
Nine:
The Queen of the Damned, by Anne RiceI know, I know, Anne Rice fans are reading this and screaming at the screen but I love this! It could be Stuart Townsend, but it could also be the script and the soundtrack. It may not be as accurate as Interview With a Vampire but I feel that this film has a little more 'fang' in it; the atmosphere created is just immense!Eight:
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne CollinsI had reservations about this film; the book was quite descriptive and dark. And I did not like Katniss... at all. But I was pleasantly surprised! The film was extremely good. Though there were some aspects that could have been built on, like the character interaction between Katniss and Peta, overall the transformation from book to screen was done well. Especially when you consider the violent/political subject and magnitude of the entire novel itself.My favourite bit of the film was the shooting! Awesome! Seven:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, by J.K RowlingThough I love all the Harry Potter books and films, the best adaptation to me is certainly the last one. The past decade (eight films) has been so much fun but several of the films have had their own issues. One or two have left out important details and even caused book lovers some confusion. But this film is simply epic!!! I have raved about this film before but I will do it again; tear jerking elements, action, laughter, shock... WOW. Just WOW. Six:
The Notebook, by Nicholas SparksThe book made me cry, the prose was incredibly touching and really showed the difficulties of dealing with illness. The film also made me teary... I am not one to cry at movies, but this really did pull at the heartstrings. As an adaptation, it works very well. I loved this. With a capital 'L'. Five:
A Walk to Remember, by Nicholas SparksI love this. This is my favourite Sparks novel and (this is odd) I love the film even more; it is one of the only films that I prefer to the novel. The good girl/bad boy relationship dynamic is lovely and the added complication of cancer really adds a sense of maturity to the entire film. Though it has a sad ending, it is soooooo romantic and leaves you sitting on the sofa with a smile. Four:
Emma, by Jane AustenI am a massive Austen fan and simply love this adaptation. Again, as with every adaptation, there are elements that have been missed, over edited etc, but even taking these into account, I still love this film. The cast is superb; Kate Beckinsale and Mark Strong have great chemistry and the script is fantastic! Very well done. Bronze:
Sense and Sensibility, by Jane AustenScreenplay by Emma Thompson and you can't go wrong! This certainly deserves the bronze position and is a firm favourite. Though not my favourite novel, I love this book; it has humour, love, loss and scandal! It's like a soap opera in the 19th century! Brilliant. And the movie is just like it. Silver:
Jane Eyre, by Charlotte BronteDirected by Cary Fukunaga, this adaptation preserves the bleak and secretive atmosphere that both Jane and Mr Rochester generate throughout their intense and emotional interactions. It is great. Yes, some character details are dimmed but the sheer drama and passion of the novel is all there. Also, the music is exquisite. Gold:
Pride and Prejudice, by Jane AustenOkay, so this is technically not a film. But it's my favourite. Enough said.
February 7, 2013
March Bites
Next month will be full of bite! Each day will have its own fanged mascot!
I can't wait!
I can't wait!
January 28, 2013
Blood Prophecy 99p: Limited Time Only
For a limited time only, Blood Prophecy is now only 99p! Available at over 130 ebook sellers, details about my novel can be found at Apostrophe Books (see the link on the right).
So, grab yourself a copy and enjoy!!!
So, grab yourself a copy and enjoy!!!
January 27, 2013
At Doggy Makes Three
Say hello to Sapphire (Sapphi for short) the newest addition to the household. She is ten weeks old and is a Labrador/Husky/Rottweiler cross.
All dog lovers will now be sat staring at their screens thinking, 'Are you crazy?' The answer is a resounding yes! But hey, crazy is always good. You can't own two cats and a puppy and be sane; it would drive you bonkers.
So, how has it been? It's been fun! Everything has been puppy proofed, the conservatory looks like a nursery and on a personal note, I think a puppy will do wonders for my figure! I hardly get a chance to eat, I'm so busy!
With Sapphi and the munchkins, Bella and Donna, I'm sure me and my parents will have our hands full!
I'll keep you up to date!
Chow x
All dog lovers will now be sat staring at their screens thinking, 'Are you crazy?' The answer is a resounding yes! But hey, crazy is always good. You can't own two cats and a puppy and be sane; it would drive you bonkers.
So, how has it been? It's been fun! Everything has been puppy proofed, the conservatory looks like a nursery and on a personal note, I think a puppy will do wonders for my figure! I hardly get a chance to eat, I'm so busy!
With Sapphi and the munchkins, Bella and Donna, I'm sure me and my parents will have our hands full!
I'll keep you up to date!
Chow x
January 20, 2013
Read This Book!
This is a brilliant read. Though a fan of Bones, the television series based on the Tempe Brennan novels, I have never read any of the books. Crime/Detective stories are not my favourite genre.But when I saw this book, I just had to read it. More science-fiction than crime, Virals is a gripping and action packed read. Tory Brennan (niece of Tempe Brennan) lives on an isolated island and at the age of fourteen, it's pretty boring... until she and her friends rescue a puppy from a lab...And then everything changes. Pick this up and I can personally assure you that you will not put it down until you've finished! Happy Reading x
Candle Colours
Balance your inner energy with the candles that soothe...
White – Purification Transformation Divinity Blessings Peace Moon Black – Banishing Deflecting negativity Life changes Red – Power Fire Vitality Lust Sexuality Physical energy Aggression Sun Silver – Peace Psychic energy Femininity Channelling Clairvoyance Moon Gold – Strength Prosperity Masculinity Sun Pink – Love Family Friendship Green – Healing Health Fertility Luck Harmony Blue – Protection Peace Truth Water Yellow – Balance Self-confidence Personal worth Friendship Creativity Communion Communication Air Orange – Abundance Prosperity Warmth Purple – Judgment Wisdom Mysteries Learning Esoteric Brown – Nature Animal Harmony Home Earth Natural – Balance Neutrality Harmony
White – Purification Transformation Divinity Blessings Peace Moon Black – Banishing Deflecting negativity Life changes Red – Power Fire Vitality Lust Sexuality Physical energy Aggression Sun Silver – Peace Psychic energy Femininity Channelling Clairvoyance Moon Gold – Strength Prosperity Masculinity Sun Pink – Love Family Friendship Green – Healing Health Fertility Luck Harmony Blue – Protection Peace Truth Water Yellow – Balance Self-confidence Personal worth Friendship Creativity Communion Communication Air Orange – Abundance Prosperity Warmth Purple – Judgment Wisdom Mysteries Learning Esoteric Brown – Nature Animal Harmony Home Earth Natural – Balance Neutrality Harmony
January 16, 2013
A New Page
Hello gang!
As you can see, I've added a new page to my blog. This is a children's short story. It's kind of Sherlock Holmes as a cat. Anyway, it's my first try at writing for kids so if you have any comments, I'd love to hear from you!
As you can see, I've added a new page to my blog. This is a children's short story. It's kind of Sherlock Holmes as a cat. Anyway, it's my first try at writing for kids so if you have any comments, I'd love to hear from you!
January 15, 2013
The First Review is Up!
The first review for Blood Prophecy: The Fated Three has been posted! And it's good, it's really good!
Click on the link below to have a read:
http://strandupdate.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/the-blood-prophecy-fated-three.html
Thank you Sara!
Click on the link below to have a read:
http://strandupdate.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/the-blood-prophecy-fated-three.html
Thank you Sara!
January 13, 2013
Movie Madness: My Top 10
Yes, I know. Everyone has their own unique taste in films and I'm completely insane; you are probably reading this and thinking, her film choices will be really bizarre. But what the hell. I'll share mine anyway.
These are my favourite films; the movies I watch (or in one or two cases have been back to watch) when I'm stressed or tired or... or just bored.
If you haven't seen some of these films, this post contains SPOILERS.
Ten:
Yes, yes, yes, I know. Most normal people despise the films but at number ten is my guilty pleasure: Breaking Dawn Pt 2. Directed by Bill Condon, I have to say, despite the gigantic plot holes and weird (verging on disturbing) family relationships, this film just has something. The 'fight-which-isn't-a-fight' was so good it had me at the edge of my seat (mostly because I was mad that they killed off one of my favourite characters) and several of the red eyed vampires - Garrett and Benjamin - were fabulous. Yes, the acting wasn't exactly brilliant but it was the best film of the saga. It earns a place in my top ten purely for one fact only:JANE GETS HER HEAD RIPPED OFF! YAY!Nine:
I am a comic book fan. And even if these characters do, on occasion, veer from their 'factory settings' it does not detract from the reality that The Avengers is an epic film. It's action-packed, adventure filled; there's enough violence to keep everyone happy but, for the more sensitive folk, the characters are developed enough to show a little heart and vulnerability. The villain is superb; he's paranoid, intelligent and he has a massive inferiority complex hidden beneath layers of arrogence and indifference. Loki is the perfect villain.Eight:
Affectionately called the 'roar roar' film in our house - by my mother, ladies and gentlemen - Jurassic Park takes the number eight spot. The 'roar roars' are cool. When people ask what a dinosaur looks like, I have never heard anyone say, 'Search it on the web' or, 'Look in a book.' Every single time someone has asked the dinosaur question, the answer has always been the same: 'Watch Jurassic Park.'And I love watching it. The cast, the script and the story are all fabulous. The characters are well developed and the music, composed by John Williams, is just sensational.Seven:
This film brought out the child in me. On a cold afternoon, I took the trip to the cinema with my two best friends (both over 20, like me) and sat down to watch it. As we were early, we had to watch the 2D viewing. That was epic! So, like a bunch of saddo twenty year olds, we went out and bought tickets for the 3D version. Which was AWESOME!With the silent Sandman, the giant Australian Easterbunny, the hyper Tooth Fairy, the tattooed Santa and the rebellious Jack Frost, what is there not to love about this film? Plus, and who could forget, the one and only Jude Law as Pitch Black, the Boogeyman.A fun loving adventure with heart and soul.Six:
Okay, The Lord of the Rings: TRILOGY. Because, let's face it. They are all awesome. I can't choose between them. When I sit down to watch these films, I end up having an entire day of MiddleEarth. The world is just so detailed, the characters so incredibly diverse. Peter Jackson did an amazing job with these films. And we can't forget the cinematography. The sweeping camera shots of mountains and breathtaking landscapes... Wow.Okay, so we have Frodo. The little Hobbit who is now a ring-bearer. He makes his way, joined by Sam, Pippin and Merry and led to Rivendell by Aragorn, the heir to the throne of Gondor. From there we have Gandalf (Wizard), Gimli (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Boromir (Son of Gondor) joining them to go to Mt Doom. They have to destroy the ring. And save the world. Epicness.Five:
The first of the Harry Potter films takes number five in my top ten. Young Harry is the boy who lived. And he doesn't even know it. Not until a giant breaks down his door and tells him he's a wizard! It's a wonderful film and the beginning of a journey for every child of my generation. Yes, I said child. Because that is what the Harry Potter franchise does to you. It makes you believe in things. I'm still waiting for my Hogwarts letter. Four:
When this film came out, I was seven; mum and dad took me to the cinema to watch it. I loved it then and I love it now. Still, over ten years later, it remains one of my ultimate favourites. And I'm going to explain why.First: I love mythology. Ancient Egypt had such a rich and diverse - if strange - culture. Their religion was so different from ours; they had Gods for just about everything. So, doing a film about a curse (which Egyptains did do, by the way) really had my interest. Furthermore, the character names (the Egyptian ones) like Imhotep and Ankhsunamun were real people. Second: The cast. What a cast. Enough said. Third: Character development. Even the villain was likable in a weird sort of way. You felt his pain. All he wanted was his girl. It was so sad. Well, until he started killing people.And let us not forget the action and SFX. Ace!Bronze:
It's the end of an era. We had to say goodbye to Harry and his friends and wow! at least we got to do so with a bang. Taking Bronze in my top ten is the final instalment of Harry Potter.And I think it's well deserved.Not only is it true to the books, with all those 'OMG' and 'Tissue, I need a tissue' moments included, the film is visually dynamic and, at times, explosive. There is a perfect balance of action and emotional gravity, providing the film with enough realism (despite the genre) to remain attainable to its audience. The cinematography was superb and the music (Alexandre Desplat) was gripping, adding that extra note of despair to the entire picture.But Snape stole the show. Alan Rickman is the sole reason that this film is in Bronze position, not at number four. His performance throughout not only this film, but the other seven, really stands out. His 'There will be no foolish wand waving or silly incantations in this class.' to the despairing and loving, 'Always' will remain in our memories.Thank you Alan Rickman and thank you Professor Snape. You are a legend.Silver:
At silver, is this awesome film! About a group of kids with a camera, this movie has a clever script and is excellently filmed. I watch it at least once a week.The kids are brilliant. They can act, for one, which is brilliant and their line delivery is superb - JJ Abrams does great dialogue. Produced by the great Steven Spielsperg, Super 8 is intriguing and fast paced.Awesomeness.Gold:
The Princess Bride. This is the cheesiest, funniest, maddest film I have ever seen. Complete with drunk sounding priests, friendly giants, swash buckling pirates, evil princes, torture chambers, and of course true love, this film has everything. Even R.O.U.Ses (Rodents Of Unusual Size). Based on the novel by William Goldman, the film has condensed some things for the name of good cinema. But who cares! It is an ace film.With phrases such as 'As you wish' and 'Inconceivable' and 'Prepare to die' at regular intervals, it is a flim for all the family. Though years old, and I mean years, the film is still as epic as ever. I love it.
These are my favourite films; the movies I watch (or in one or two cases have been back to watch) when I'm stressed or tired or... or just bored.
If you haven't seen some of these films, this post contains SPOILERS.
Ten:
Yes, yes, yes, I know. Most normal people despise the films but at number ten is my guilty pleasure: Breaking Dawn Pt 2. Directed by Bill Condon, I have to say, despite the gigantic plot holes and weird (verging on disturbing) family relationships, this film just has something. The 'fight-which-isn't-a-fight' was so good it had me at the edge of my seat (mostly because I was mad that they killed off one of my favourite characters) and several of the red eyed vampires - Garrett and Benjamin - were fabulous. Yes, the acting wasn't exactly brilliant but it was the best film of the saga. It earns a place in my top ten purely for one fact only:JANE GETS HER HEAD RIPPED OFF! YAY!Nine:I am a comic book fan. And even if these characters do, on occasion, veer from their 'factory settings' it does not detract from the reality that The Avengers is an epic film. It's action-packed, adventure filled; there's enough violence to keep everyone happy but, for the more sensitive folk, the characters are developed enough to show a little heart and vulnerability. The villain is superb; he's paranoid, intelligent and he has a massive inferiority complex hidden beneath layers of arrogence and indifference. Loki is the perfect villain.Eight:Affectionately called the 'roar roar' film in our house - by my mother, ladies and gentlemen - Jurassic Park takes the number eight spot. The 'roar roars' are cool. When people ask what a dinosaur looks like, I have never heard anyone say, 'Search it on the web' or, 'Look in a book.' Every single time someone has asked the dinosaur question, the answer has always been the same: 'Watch Jurassic Park.'And I love watching it. The cast, the script and the story are all fabulous. The characters are well developed and the music, composed by John Williams, is just sensational.Seven:This film brought out the child in me. On a cold afternoon, I took the trip to the cinema with my two best friends (both over 20, like me) and sat down to watch it. As we were early, we had to watch the 2D viewing. That was epic! So, like a bunch of saddo twenty year olds, we went out and bought tickets for the 3D version. Which was AWESOME!With the silent Sandman, the giant Australian Easterbunny, the hyper Tooth Fairy, the tattooed Santa and the rebellious Jack Frost, what is there not to love about this film? Plus, and who could forget, the one and only Jude Law as Pitch Black, the Boogeyman.A fun loving adventure with heart and soul.Six:Okay, The Lord of the Rings: TRILOGY. Because, let's face it. They are all awesome. I can't choose between them. When I sit down to watch these films, I end up having an entire day of MiddleEarth. The world is just so detailed, the characters so incredibly diverse. Peter Jackson did an amazing job with these films. And we can't forget the cinematography. The sweeping camera shots of mountains and breathtaking landscapes... Wow.Okay, so we have Frodo. The little Hobbit who is now a ring-bearer. He makes his way, joined by Sam, Pippin and Merry and led to Rivendell by Aragorn, the heir to the throne of Gondor. From there we have Gandalf (Wizard), Gimli (Dwarf), Legolas (Elf) and Boromir (Son of Gondor) joining them to go to Mt Doom. They have to destroy the ring. And save the world. Epicness.Five:The first of the Harry Potter films takes number five in my top ten. Young Harry is the boy who lived. And he doesn't even know it. Not until a giant breaks down his door and tells him he's a wizard! It's a wonderful film and the beginning of a journey for every child of my generation. Yes, I said child. Because that is what the Harry Potter franchise does to you. It makes you believe in things. I'm still waiting for my Hogwarts letter. Four:When this film came out, I was seven; mum and dad took me to the cinema to watch it. I loved it then and I love it now. Still, over ten years later, it remains one of my ultimate favourites. And I'm going to explain why.First: I love mythology. Ancient Egypt had such a rich and diverse - if strange - culture. Their religion was so different from ours; they had Gods for just about everything. So, doing a film about a curse (which Egyptains did do, by the way) really had my interest. Furthermore, the character names (the Egyptian ones) like Imhotep and Ankhsunamun were real people. Second: The cast. What a cast. Enough said. Third: Character development. Even the villain was likable in a weird sort of way. You felt his pain. All he wanted was his girl. It was so sad. Well, until he started killing people.And let us not forget the action and SFX. Ace!Bronze:It's the end of an era. We had to say goodbye to Harry and his friends and wow! at least we got to do so with a bang. Taking Bronze in my top ten is the final instalment of Harry Potter.And I think it's well deserved.Not only is it true to the books, with all those 'OMG' and 'Tissue, I need a tissue' moments included, the film is visually dynamic and, at times, explosive. There is a perfect balance of action and emotional gravity, providing the film with enough realism (despite the genre) to remain attainable to its audience. The cinematography was superb and the music (Alexandre Desplat) was gripping, adding that extra note of despair to the entire picture.But Snape stole the show. Alan Rickman is the sole reason that this film is in Bronze position, not at number four. His performance throughout not only this film, but the other seven, really stands out. His 'There will be no foolish wand waving or silly incantations in this class.' to the despairing and loving, 'Always' will remain in our memories.Thank you Alan Rickman and thank you Professor Snape. You are a legend.Silver:At silver, is this awesome film! About a group of kids with a camera, this movie has a clever script and is excellently filmed. I watch it at least once a week.The kids are brilliant. They can act, for one, which is brilliant and their line delivery is superb - JJ Abrams does great dialogue. Produced by the great Steven Spielsperg, Super 8 is intriguing and fast paced.Awesomeness.Gold:The Princess Bride. This is the cheesiest, funniest, maddest film I have ever seen. Complete with drunk sounding priests, friendly giants, swash buckling pirates, evil princes, torture chambers, and of course true love, this film has everything. Even R.O.U.Ses (Rodents Of Unusual Size). Based on the novel by William Goldman, the film has condensed some things for the name of good cinema. But who cares! It is an ace film.With phrases such as 'As you wish' and 'Inconceivable' and 'Prepare to die' at regular intervals, it is a flim for all the family. Though years old, and I mean years, the film is still as epic as ever. I love it.
January 12, 2013
Interviews!
Hey everyone!
With Blood Prophecy published, I did some interviews. Check them out!
http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/2013/01/09/interview-with-tl-spencer-author-of-blood-prophecy-the-fated-three/
and
http://patbertram.wordpress.com/2012/12/21/tl-spencer-author-of-blood-prophecy-the-fated-three/
Enjoy!
With Blood Prophecy published, I did some interviews. Check them out!
http://childrensandteensbookconnection.wordpress.com/2013/01/09/interview-with-tl-spencer-author-of-blood-prophecy-the-fated-three/
and
http://patbertram.wordpress.com/2012/12/21/tl-spencer-author-of-blood-prophecy-the-fated-three/
Enjoy!
