"Safe Haven" Book Review

Audiences have become familiar with the author Nicholas Sparks, from his popular works like "The Notebook" or "A Walk to Remember" and while those are critically acclaimed, his novel "Safe Haven," which let me add has not been turned into a movie, is not only moving but is also addictive.

The plot begins with an introduction with the heroin, Katie--a young, timid woman keeping a life or death secret. From the very beginning the reader relinquishes all control and undoubtedly believes the narrator. We are engulfed by the scenery—the colors, the smells, the people and begin to learn bits and pieces of Katie's life. After months of seclusion, Katie goes against her instincts and entrusts her secret to her neighbor and close friend Jo. It not only allows Katie to heal but also offers the reader some insight on Katie's traumatic past.

Jo is an interesting character. She portrays confidence and wisdom; she shows compassion and strength and proves to be, not only Katie’s salvation but also a means of empowerment. Jo is able to empathize with Katie and shows her how fight for her life. However, Jo also has a secret that is not reveled until the very end.

The interesting aspect of “Safe Haven” is how the book is constructed. Traditionally, most novels follow a similar formula—character development, story growth, and plot summary; followed by the climax, conflict resolution and finally the conclusion. However, “Safe Haven” is unique in the respect that the climax and conclusion happen relatively close to the end of the novel and within the last few chapters.

When all seems peaceful and the reader finally feels like Katie's life is going to have a “happy ending,” a wrench is thrown in the mix. She is haunted by the demons of her past and encounters this evil head on. It is a triumphant story where the innocent overpowers the malevolent, and where the darkness falters to the light. Katie shows the conscience of a character and how even the most “good” and demur character has both pure and sinister qualities within them. But, it also proves that it is our choices, our actions that dictate the type of person we can become.

My only qualm is that there is a religious undertone to the story, but that does seem to be a trend within Sparks’ novels. His work refers other aspects of life that transcend the physical world. And although, this is a theme that resonates throughout Sparks’ novels, there are at certain points, references that seem unnecessary.

Overall, “Safe haven” is an enjoyable read that captivates the interest of its readers while allowing them to utilize their imagination to piece together the story.

Harry Potter Phenomenon "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 1" Film Review

The Harry Potter phenomenon has swept the world ever since author J.K. Rowling published the famed and popular serious several years ago. The Harry Potter serious has become much more than a book on the best selling list, it has engulfed today’s youth and instilled a sense of magic into it’s audience. The Harry Potter series while it has sold millions of copies and shattered numerous book records; it is still a beloved tale of friendship and overcoming obstacles.

From the beginning, the series gained popularity; it had a steady group of young followers that remained constant throughout the years. Now that my generation has grown up, the films have allowed the next generation to enjoy the stories and adventures of Harry, Hermonie and Ron.

The latest film, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 1” marks the bittersweet beginning of the end of the Harry Potter series, in which fans have spent the past decade engulfing J.K. Rowling's books and the critically acclaimed films based upon them, as the young heroes Harry, Ron and Hermione leave the confines of Hogwarts and strike out on a mission to find and destroy the mysterious pieces of their nemesis, Voldemort's soul.

Although, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 1” main focus is the build up to the epic finale—the Harry- Voldemort showdown, Part 1 has the background explanation of events that some feel is unnecessary but for those who like having all the facts and who actual read the series, Part 1 is the most accurate to the books. The characters actually use the same words/ lines from the book and scenes from the novel that have been typically cut out of films, were included.

The most anticipated film of the year, is finally in theaters and while some are infatuated with the stories and enjoy the films others feel the Par 1 was a let down. Part 1, did lacked the number of action scenes that the previous films immediately had, but it stayed true the book and maintained a steady balance between emotion and humor.

Personally, Part 1 was better then I expected. I was anticipating a film that tried to tie up loose ends and writers that took creative liberties to make- up a “nice and neat” little package, which would give away information or allude to future events. Instead, I was proven wrong. The film set-up the action and drama expected from “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 2,” without giving too much away.

If “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, Part 2” is as accurate as Part 1, then audience members are up for some laughs, tragedy, missing pieces—finally coming together and an epic battle between good and evil.

The final film marks the end of an era—Harry Potter has occupied our homes and minds for over a decade. For those of us who grew up reading the books and watching the films, “Harry Potter and the Deadly Hollows” ends the series with a bang.

"Letters to Juliet" Movie Review

Letters to Juliet” was predicted to be one of this year’s cutest, romantic comedies and while its cast was relatively unknown, besides its female counterparts—Amanda Seyfried and Vanessa Redgrave, it fulfilled its prophecy. “Letters to Juliet” is set in the year of 2010, yet radiates the feeling of being a classic film. The movie reveals timeless romantic notions of destiny, fate and above all true love.

It tells the story of an aspiring journalist—Sophie, played by Seyfried, who travels to Verona and stumbles upon one of Italy’s most romantic and cherished traditions. Sophie’s character goes to Juliet Capulet’s home, the beloved character from William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” where lovelorn travelers write letters to Juliet asking for her help or advice on love. Obviously, Juliet Capulet is unable to respond—her being a fictional character and all, however the Secretaries of Juliet write back, on her behalf. Meeting these women, Sophie becomes enamored by the custom and a contributor to Juliet’s advice

Sophie finds a 50-year-old letter hidden in the wall and writes back. Even though Sophie does not really believe that her letter will find Claire, played by Redgrave, the author of the letter, she becomes captivated by the by the story. When in fact, Sophie’s letter finds Claire and Claire’s grandson Charlie, played by Christopher Egan, the three start out on an epic love adventure, to reunite Claire and her true love Lorenzo.

While, Sophie and Claire share the same idealistic pursuit of rekindling true love, it is Charlie’s character that plays the realistic and sometimes ill-mannered male equivalent that grounds the two women. However, this not only adds depth and reveals emotional bonds between the characters, but also leaves the story with a possible romantic connection.

At times “Letters to Juliet” can be corny or even hokey, but it reveals an underlining message of hope and longing. Although the main storyline is dedicated to the pursuit of love, “Letters to Juliet” uncovers the notion of discovering what you want and seizing the opportunity when it comes. Overall, “Letters to Juliet” is charming film that will have its female audience traveling to Italy to discover the power of the Secretaries of Juliet.

"Arcade Fire" Music Review

Arcade Fire, the Canadian indie rock band, has recently released its highly anticipated third album The Suburbs. The band’s previous albums Funeral and Neon Blue showcase their unique and distinct sound—their use of instrumental strumming combined with smooth vocals, compliments their intoxicating lyrics.

The Suburbs stays true to the band’s melancholy sound while branching out into a strong beat and up-tempo bass. Yet, The Suburbs incorporates a set of forthcoming lyrics that exposes the internal emotions of the band, despite the album’s songs being relentlessly chorale. The music strings together as if it is telling a story. The band’s inspiration for the album’s lyrical content was Win and William Butler's upbringing in the suburbs of Houston. According to NME Magazine and Win Butler, the album "is neither a love letter to, nor an indictment of, the suburbs - it's a letter from the suburbs."

“Ready to Start” utilizes a multi-layered rhythm that stirs their audiences’ attitude. While “Half- Light I” is a softer down-beat song that balances out the dramatic tracks of the “My Body is a Cage” or “Rococo.”

Overall, The Suburbs is a solid album that combines tradition and strong levels of musical content. Arcade Fire’s third album starts off strong and grows stronger. It is a collection of songs that challenges the previous set and continuous to evolve.

"Piper's Story" Game Review

I'm not usually interested in computer/ video games, however, a new game has peeked my interest. "Piper's Story" is different then the traditional game. Aside from the story plot, the game is aesthetically pleasing. Each new level has unique details-- as if it were a moving, interactive painting.

"Piper's Story" does not follow traditional video games, in the sense that the last level is the most difficult, but instead closely follows the pathway of a traveler's tale. The player is introduced to 'Piper' and her objective, which is to collect 14 ingredients that will save her grandmother from dying. While following the trail, 'Piper' meets new characters that reveal information, which will help her achieve her goal. Each level unveils new obstacles and forces the player to strategize, instead of simply killing objects, like many of today's games.

"Piper's Story" is an original game-- for many reasons: the player is not allowed to touch the sides/ walls of the game-- and for players like me, that's a challenge in of itself; also 'Piper' has unlimited lives. Instead of "dying" in the game 'Piper' merely runs away. Finally, the game is designed in intricate mazes that have additional challenges added to each level. Some are timed, while in others, 'Piper' becomes invisible and the player must become precise in their execution in order to move on to the next level.

But like I said before, I'm not one for video games, but "Piper's Story" is different then most games. It challenges the player to not only react to what their seeing but to develop their own way of succeeding. So, I guess you could say that I've been converted, thanks to "Piper's Story."

"Piper's Story" is not yet available for distribution, but if you go to http://aerolawstudios.com/pipers%20story/piper.html or Google AeroLaw Studios, you will find "Piper's Story" and other projects created by the same artist.

"Mumford and Sons" Music Review

I recently received a collection of records. An eclectic group of artists—ranging from "Neil Diamond" to "The Grateful Dead." But when I came across "Mumford and Sons," I became intrigued by the soulful and eccentric sound coming from the group.

I've heard of them before, but I wouldn't have considered myself an avid fan—by any means. However, when I listened to the record I discovered that their unique vocals and soft, melancholy melody, was the perfect antidote to a high-strung day. “Sigh No More” is the Mercury Prize nominated debut album of London-based folk-rock quartet that was released in February of 2010.

The song "Timshel," combines harmonized vocals with tender instrumental strumming. The guitar begins as an equal counterpart to the lyrics, but as the song progresses the guitar starts to challenge the soft undertone of the singing. Both the vocal and instrumental parts become more commanding, while each part takes turns softening into the background. The two pieces play off of each other, while never overpowering the other. “Timeshel,” like many of the other songs on “Sigh No More,” introduces a pleasant set of lyrics to cure an otherwise collection of gloomy lines.

“Sigh No More,” showcases “Mumford and Sons" musical range, while staying true to their unique sound. “After the Storm” follows the give and take relationship that “Timeshel” introduces. This is a general theme carried throughout the album, which is surprisingly tender and empathetic. The most inspiring aspect of “Mumford and Sons” music is how they intuitively balance their most intimate confessions within their songs, as if they are speaking for the masses. I suspect that will we hear great things from “Mumford and Sons.”

"Apologize, Apologize!" Book Reveiw

Elizabeth Kelly's first novel, not only topped the New York Times Best Sellers List, but also has become an inspiring story about love, loss and the importance of family. "Apologize, Apologize!" revolves around the harassment of a long-suffering Collie Flanagan, the only rational member of a wealthy family of dog loving- alcoholics, with hypocritical political views, immature playboy actions, media moguls and of course, pigeon racers. As Kelly describes the absurdity-surrounding Collie, I felt annoyed and frustrated for him. I couldn’t imagine having to live with parents that were more preoccupied with sun- tanning (indoors) or trying to agitate Collie’s grandfather, the Falcon, rather than focusing on their children. His family is similar to a car- wreck, driving past you’re thankful that you are not apart of it, but at the same time you can’t help but watch.

Collie had little relief within his own home, a place that is supposed to be a sanctuary, a place to relax and forget about the hectic world. But for Collie, it was a place filled with judgment and frustration. Much of the humor of this first half of the novel revolves around Collie's thoughtful memories of his infuriating family members, one more outrageous than the next. He talks about his brother Bingo as the typical little brother—he follows Collie around, wants to do everything Collie does and he definitely pushes Collie’s buttons. As they grow up, the dynamic changes. They are no longer the carefree brothers that enjoy being around each other (to some degree—I mean let’s face it they are brothers, they can’t get along all the time), but they now buttheads on practically everything. They have become polar opposites—Bingo following the footsteps of his parents and uncle, while Collie is taking the path lead by his grandfather.

“Apologize, Apologize!” is, up to this point, a mixture of angst and humor, but when tragedy hits the Flanagan family everything changes. They are left with regret, anger and guilt, which each member copes with in their own way. This more serious section has a little trouble maintaining its momentum, it is darker and more melancholy—but I believe this was Kelly’s way of integrating Collie’s emotions with the transition of the writing style.

Towards the end, the plot pulls itself together and returns to Collie's charming, frustrating family. Fortunately, the shift is enough to carry the rest of the story towards a tender, attentive conclusion that offers a small amount of release to this long-suffering young man. This also holds true for Kelly’s first novel. “Apologize, Apologize!” is good enough to overcome its flaws and clever enough to make us want more.

The Young Victoria Movie Review

Portraits and photographs throughout history have shown Queen Victoria as a mourning widow- dressed in black, drab clothing with a quizzical brow. However, Queen Victoria was young once.
"The Young Victoria" follows the troubled life of the Queen and the moments that lead her to power.

Victoria played by Emily Blunt, is compelling as the energetic, good-hearted Queen, with several examples of her righteous annoyance of society. As for, Prince Albert, played by Rupert Friend, is depicted as the opposite of what men during the Victorian Era were suppose to be, instead of being domineering and power- hungry, Albert is shown as a partner and well-informed advisor.

"The Young Victoria" is the first to show the young side of the Queen Victoria, but it also shows the devotion between the young royal couple.

SPIN Print Media Review

April's issue of "SPIN" magazine was the special anniversary edition, featuring modern artists and the musicians that inspired and influenced the music they create.

"SPIN" created multiple versions of cover stories showcasing nine stars meeting their idols, including Billie Joe Armstrong of "Green Day" meeting Paul Westerberg of "The Replacements" and "SPOON's" Britt Daniels meeting Ray Davies from " The Kinks."

Finding out where some of my favorite musicians received their inspiration, introduced me to a larger spectrum of music.

Of the Blue Colour of the Sky

The Chicago based band "OK GO" has not only left their major label Capitol Records, but has also re-released their latest album, "Of the Blue Colour of the Sky" under the band's independent label Paracadute Records on April 1, 2010.

"OK GO" has had two previous successful albums, winning a Grammy in 2007 for "Best Short Form Music Video" for their worldwide hit "Here It Goes Again."

The band's latest album stays consistent with their traditional sound but introduces new instrumental techniques. In the song "This Too Shall Pass" combines powerful lyrics with guitar solos and a strong downbeat.

"WTF?" has a couple quirky accompaniments such as handclaps and chimes adding to the raw sound. The only softness comes from lead singer Damian Kulash's unique vocals, while his lyrics express a binge of romantic confusion.

"Of the Blue Colour of the Sky" is reminiscent of the bands earlier albums, but also has a unique and original perspective. This album is one to add to the collection.

Hawthrone Heights Music Review

The members of "Hawthorne Heights" hit the mainstream in 2004, with their breakthrough album "The Silence in Black and White."

In two years, they have become more than the once garage-band; they are now one of the leaders in the new rock scene. Their debut album "The Silence in Black and White," was a huge success, breaking sales records and receiving platinum record status in 2005. Followed by their 2006 album "If Only You Were Lonely," receiving a Gold certification.

The band's newest album, "Skeleton" has a similar sound to their previous work but has a more mature technique. The song "Unforgivable," is a combination of strong rock undertones with meaningful lyrics. For fans of the band's pervious work, "Skeleton" does not disappoint.

"Til Morning Light" Book Review

Picking up from where "Leaving Ireland" leaves off, "Til Morning Light" tells the final chapter of the story of Gracelin O'Malley.

Gracelin finally arrives in New York City, after surviving both the long and strenuous journey to America and the horrific events of the Irish Famine.

The author Ann Moore, create an atmosphere of realism and hope, when describing the events in the lives of Grace, her family and to her friends.

The audience becomes captivated by the struggles that the O'Malley family is faced with, in this classic tale of the underdog.

"Valentine's Day" Movie Review

This film has a huge celebrity cast including Julia Roberts, Jessica Alba, Jennifer Garner and Ashton Kutcher.

The movie revolves around the lives of several people who are either single or in a relationship. "Valentine's Day" is the perfect film to watch if you're in a mood for something happy and mushy--in other words a great "chick flick."

So, if you want to be in a cheerful, chipper mood this Valentine's Day go catch the movie at a theatre near you.

"The Time Travelers Wife" Movie Review

Recently released on DVD and On Demand. Robert Schwentke's screen adaptation of the bestselling novel presents a couple stuck in the midst of an ongoing obstacles. Eric Bana plays Henry, a Chicagoan we meet at age 6, when he discovers his ability to time travel.

On one of Henry's trips through time, we are introduced to his love interest, Clare played by Rachel McAdams, whom he meets as a young girl.

If you can get past the chaos of events, "The Time Traveler's Wife," is a sweet film about love, life and the importance of family. Bana's and McAdams' performances rise above the shaky material, the film is gorgeous to look at.

Leaving Ireland Book Review

In "Leavin Ireland," Ann Moore's second installment of the "Gracelin O'Malley" trilogy, we follow Gracelin as she is forced to leave Ireland. The story begins with Gracelin, who is stuck in an abusive marriage, watching as her friends and family struggle to survive the Irish famine. Both new and old characters surface, bringing both humor and drama to the story.

"Leap Year Review" Movie Review

In this day and age of feminism and gender equality, it's still up to the men to propose. In the adorable romantic comedy, "Leap Year" that's not necessarily the case.

Anna Brady, played by Amy Adams, develops an elaborate scheme to propose to her boyfriend on Leap Day, following an old Irish tradition. Anna faces a major setback when bad weather delays her trip to Dublin. With the help of an innkeeper, Declan, played by Matthew Goode, Anna begins her roller- coaster of a journey to get engaged.

"Leap Year," has a good mixture of sarcasm and physical comedy. Amy Adams and Matthew Goode were charming and charismatic. This film is definitely worth a trip to the theaters - but you might want leave it for a girls night.

Sherlock Holmes Review Movie Review How does it compare?

In the newest portrayal of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's most famous character, "Sherlock Holmes." reveals an energetic detective sends Holmes and his reliable partner Watson on their latest adventure.

The film portrays a more honest depictions of Holmes and Watson rather then the romanticized versions audiences have seen through the years. Sherlock Holmes, played by an energetic Robert Downey, Jr. is a super- rational man, who uses his superior intellect to out- maneuver and defeats his opponents. However, with all of his intelligence, he is limited. Holmes is a socially awkward alcoholic, determined to out-perform his nemesis, Lord Blackwood.

With the help of his reliable side-kick, Dr. Watson, Holmes manages to be successful. Although Dr. Watson, played by Jude Law, is the more socially acceptable of the two characters, he is not without his flaws. Watson is a recovering gambler who is trying to turn over a new leaf.

In this film's adaptation of the characters, both men have their female counterparts who challenge them. Irene Adler, played by Rachel McAdams, is the one person that not only out-smart Holmes, but also is able to out maneuver him. Adler, is hired to manipulate Holmes' feelings for her, which would make Holmes take her case.

Overall, "Sherlock Holmes" was a creative and entertaining film. Although the film was more violent then expected, both Downey and Law gave great performances portraying the infamous characters. However, McAdams' character fell flat. Her role had potential, but it was not cohesive-it was like she was added in, to have a woman character to play opposite Holmes.

It's a movie worth seeing, worth renting if you don't get the chance to see it in theaters.

Gracelin O'Malley Review Book Review

Last spring I came across a new author, Ann Moore, which has become one of my favorite novels. Ann Moore's novel, "Gracelin O'Malley," is the first of three novels, which tells the story of an Irish farming family, struggling to survive on the brink of the Irish famine.

Moore not only told a story about a heroine overcoming hardships, but also a story of a country fighting a war for independence. "Gracelin O'Malley" is the classic tale of the underdog.

When a character lost strength or motivation in their fight for survival, I found myself wanting to help, wanting to save the good and punish the evil; I wanted to help restore faith in humanity and they want to reunite family and friends that were lost along the way.

"Gracelin O'Malley" gives more to the reader then just romance or action. But gives suspense, intrigue and war. Moore did her research and created a realistic picture of the world 1800s were like for the families in Ireland.

The connection the reader builds with the characters makes this novel worth exploring. Each time you read it, a new part jumps off the pages.

"Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day" Movie Review

The original cult classic "Boondock Saints," was released directly to video before most fans had the notion to go and see it. But eventually, on one random night a friend would suggest watching this strange, violent movie about twin brothers from Ireland, living in Boston, with a serious gun fetish, Catholic compulsion and Latin tattoos covering their bodies.

After a night of drinking and bar-fights, the MacManus brothers, find themselves in a jam. Murphy MacManus, played by Norman Reedus and Connor MacManus, played by Sean Patrick Flanery, are blue-collar Irishmen who receive a message from "God" and decide to rid the world of evil. They'd had enough of the immorality on the streets and began getting ride of them out in various ways.

The MacManus brother's tale continues ten years later. The Saints are in Ireland with II Duce, aka their father, played by Billy Connolly, when word spreads that someone in Boston killed a priest they knew. As twisted as it may sound the Saints have a moral code against killing good people and when the mysterious murderer tried to make it look like the Saints did it. Watch out. The Saints don't hold back.

The brothers shed their woolly sweaters, their shaggy hair and overgrown beards and return to Boston. The MacManus brother's recruit a new Saint along the way, Romeo, played by Clifton Collins Jr., a Hispanic guy apart of a Mexican mob in Boston. The new FBI agent on the case is Eunice Bloom, played by Julie Benz, a polished and intelligent Southern woman who wears heels to murder scenes and has her gun holster buckled precisely around her waist like an over-priced belt.

"The Boondock Saints II" offers more guns, more politically incorrect jokes and more mob showdowns, basically, just more of everything. The original "Boondock Saints" was a dark comedy - remember the cat incident?

While the brothers would never turn down a drink or a fight for that matter and were generally quite happy to fulfill their role and act like bad boys; this time around, the brothers had a mission and were determined to finish it.

The dialogue was funny but not as strong as the first, the mobsters are dumber, but the brothers pulled through like champs. Overall, "Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day," was good, but I because of its limited release; I recommend waiting until it's released on DVD.

"Backspacer" the Newest from Pearl Jam

One of the most anticipated albums of this year was released this month. "Backspacer," the latest from Pearl Jam, is a great combination of the band's traditional sound, but with a much more mature sound. Pearl Jam did not re-sign with J Records this year, but released the album through its own label Monkeywrench Records in the United States and internationally through Universal Music Group.

Known for their alternative sound, Pearl Jam's ninth album is no different, and then what you would expect to hear from them. The record's modest songs don't have the group's usual depressing angst or undertones- even the gloomy song "Speed of Sound" starts off slow but ends on a high note. The collection of songs on "Backspacer" is the perfect combination of the bands past and what they are transforming into.

Throughout the years, Pearl Jam has collaborated with several different labels, writers and producers- but for this year's "Backspacer," the group teamed up with Brendan O'Brien. This is the first time O'Brien has produced one of Pearl Jam's albums since "Yield."

"Yield," was the 1998 Grammy award-winning album that defined the mature alternative-rock sound, the group is known for producing. "Yield" also, represented a group effort between all members of the band. Both "Yield" and "Backspacer," utilizes the classic-rock quality with a punk-rock charge.

"Backspacer," differs a little from the group’s past albums, not just in sound but in length. Pearl Jam is known for their long- running songs- but "Backspacer" wraps up in 37 minutes, a personal record for the group. The album was exclusively released through the band's official website, independent record stores, online retailers and iTunes, but now is sold in stores everywhere.

The fans that purchased the CD or iTunes version of the album have access to 11 concerts the band has put on from 2005 through 2008. Combined with the release of "Backspacer," the entire album has been made downloadable for the video game "Rock Band."

In addition, this is Pearl Jam's first album that has reached number one in the US since "No Code," in 1996. "Backspacer," sold 189,000 copies in its first week and debuted as number one on the Billboard 200.

The first single released from "Backspacer," sets the pace for the rest of the album. "The Fixer," introduces the audience to the blood-pumping and stimulating songs that fill the record. Out of all the songs on "Backspacer," "The Fixer" is my personal favorite.

Fans of Pearl Jam will understand the difference between the past albums and "Backspacer." The more you listen, the more it just sounds like the group is living it up and doing what they do best- creating music. After a few rough years, Pearl Jam is over the ominous, silent-suffering their music used to exemplify.
The group has been through a lot over the years, but the fact that nine albums later, numerous appearances and countless concerts- the group is still true to who they are, says a lot about their standards and character.