Thursday 17 December 2015

Star Wars #TheForceAwakens

#TheForceAwakens is trending on Twitter and I know why since I went to see the movie today!

Copyright: Lucas Films
Let me tell you something - it was AWESOME! There is something about that soundtrack and the characters that brings it all back to life again... use the force!



The central character, Rey, is fantastic... I thought the actress, Daisy Ridley, did a great job as the "new Luke/ Leia". Feisty, enigmatic and curious - a lot like Anakin was portrayed in Star Wars, Episode I. It'll be interesting to see where her character goes as it grows.

Her partner-in crime - the new "Hans Solo", Finn, is a clever addition. He is not as funny as Hans and misses a sidekick, but I like the fact he has torn loyalties! He works well as a newbie and again we'll see what happens to him.

The fact Harrison Ford was back in the role of Hans was great! Just... oh, no spoilers! Watch & you'll see what they do... Boo hoo!

I'm not too convinced on the new "Darth Vader" - he is just as strange as Anakin became when he grew up - I guess this is the point? But, this is early days... there are more films to come for sure.

The challenge will be to keep the ideas fresh and the plot original. Personally, this film allowed me to get back into the "Star Wars" world after years of absence! 

There is no doubt there are familiar themes running through this new franchise. This may or may not be a good thing - depending on your point of view. Personally, I think it might hook in the next generation. But, I think the producers have to be careful not to annoy existing fans! 

We are not stupid, and if they simply roll out the same again on the next film, I'll be waiting for the DVD. Keep it original, please...

Here are some links for more information! Enjoy


Vanessa :)

Friday 11 December 2015

Distraction for #Writers

It's not difficult to find something else to do at this time of the year! So much going on...

However, it has been my pleasure to help an author, A.G. Lyttle, I met a few years ago online to prepare his book for the market! He is planning to publish his book, based on the Easter Rising of 1916, in 2016 to mark 100 years since the occasion!

Not only is his book a fantastic read, but I have been having fun trying to design a cover too. All of this is great practice for my own book publication should I fail to get representation! (I might add that I am yet to send it off to any agents - chicken that I am!)

To read about the feedback I got on my new novel read THIS! I was thrilled to get the feedback, but am only now going over the edits!

I have also been reading a lot recently. I find that it relaxes me a lot, and feel that writing will come... no point forcing it. BUT, every day my mind conjures up new ideas, so I know my creative side will not be quashed!

I have gone back to teaching maths part-time and am enjoying it - I know some of you will doubt this, but I CAN make maths exciting! I am lucky to have a great group of children to work with.

Life is busy, but I'm happy. Ultimately, I love helping people too much to hide at home.

To all of you - have an amazing Christmas period! 

Spend time with friends & family and LAUGH a lot! Very therapeutic...

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Vanessa :)