Tuesday, December 29, 2009

The Movie Scoop

Ok Here is the Big Scoop for two movies. Over the Holidays I and my family members saw some of the movies in theaters. I went and saw Sherlock Holmes while both of my siblings went to see Avatar.

First I will start with Sherlock Holmes as I know more about that particular movie. In the main cast the performances by Robert Downey Jr. , Jude Law, and Rachel McAdams were all well done. For those who enjoy a good mystery, and know Sherlock through his literary adventures this film is a MUST SEE.

Robert Downey Jr. does a fabulous job of playing meticulous and yet quirky Sherlock Holmes. The writing of his part is fabulous and I particularly like the insight into his thoughts as he works through certain situations to find a pleasing conclusion, for him at least. While he may at times be a bit self-centered, he is a very charming and lovable character. Most certainly someone you want to have on your side and not against it.

His partner, Dr. Watson is played by Jude Law who is magnificient in portraying the general annoyance Sherlock causes Dr. Watson from day to day and yet his unfailing friendship comes through in the end. A very cunning and charming character who helps to balance Holmes and his eccentricities.

Rachel McAdams plays, believe it or not, a Villain who in turn helps both Sherlock and Watson. A fun character who would as soon kick you in the butt and help you out. A good piece to fit into the puzzle that is the cast of characters.

The film itself was both visually intriguing as well as food for thought. The plot keeps you on your toes and trying to see if you can figure out the mystery before the characters. I dare you to watch this film and see if you are as quick-witted as the well-written and fabulously portrayed Sherlock Holmes. Watch out for a sequel to this Film!

As for Avatar, I am told it is the Best Movie Ever. Both my siblings were flabbergasted, and well the tale is this is one I must see for Myself! If Avatar is not already on your list of movies to see, it should be.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Fab or Flop: The Blind Side Review with a Side Note about Avatar

And we are back again for another exciting edition of FAB or FLOP. Our review today is about the film, "The Blind Side" featuring Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw.

First a little bit of background on the film. This movie is about a true story. The people presented in the film actually exist and the events really happened. For those who may not recall the plot of this movie here are the basics. A prominent white family living in Memphis end up taking in a larger than life black teenage boy into their home and have him become a part of their family. This boy goes on to be a star player in the NFL. Like I said the bare-bones basics.

Anyways the movie was excellent. Everyone and I mean everyone from your 5-yr-old sister to your ancient grand-dad should see this movie. All the actors were phenominal in their parts, but the story itself is what makes this film truly great. One of the very cool things about this movie is at the end in the credits it shows photos of the actual family. I will not say anymore other than if you have not seen this movie yet, put it at the top of your list.

SIDE NOTE

While I have not seen the movie Avatar myself yet (and the previews looked amazing) I am beginning to wonder if this movie will be as good as it has been built up to be. A friend's status last night stated, "Thought Avatar was ok, but the guy behind me was snoring." What do you think? If you have seen the movie already it is time to sound-off and let us know your opinion. Was it FAB or was it a big FLOP!

More Programs Coming After the New Year...Make Sure to Sign Up!

After the first of the year is passed we will be back full swing with a whole gammit of programs to keep you entertained. Our old favorites, J-Pop and Wii Gamers will continue on as usual, and two new monthly programs will begin.

For all my crafty creative teens we will begin Crafty Creations. Each month will bring a new project. In January we will be creating Blank Books (or what some may call Journals or even Diaries). Think of cover ideas and come to the Library to create your very own!

Something I am very excited about is our new program Movie vs. Book. Each month we will get together at the library to watch a movie. Each of the movies we watch will be based of a book. You are all encouraged to read the book version either before or after seeing the movie.

Many of us have had discussion about how the Harry Potter series has been transformed into film. Most will agree that while the movies follow the books they are missing many of the details from Author J.K. Rowlings writing. I like many others am enthused about the last book being split into two movies. Finally more details for the movies!

I encourage you all to write down your thoughts about the differences you see from books to the movies created based on them.

For January's Movie vs. Book we will be watching "10 Things I Hate About You" which is based on William Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew".

Make sure to Call, Come in, or Sign Up online for All Programs. Links are Listed Below for January Sign-Ups.

Movie vs. Book meets January 7 from 3-5. Sign Up for Movie vs. Book Here

J-Pop meets January 12 from 3-4:30. Sign Up for J-Pop Here

Wii Gamers meets January 14 from 3-5. Sign Up for Wii Gamers Here

Crafty Creations meets January 26 from 3-5. Sign Up for Craft Creations Here

Monday, November 23, 2009

Fab or Flop Review: New Moon (The Movie)

As a fan of the Twilight series I was excited to go and see the second installment in the films by watching New Moon at the theater on friday evening. In preparation for the film I reread the first two books in the series and quickly reminded myself not to expect the movie to be exactly like the book.

As I sat in the theater and waited for the film to begin I was excited. The theater was packed, sold out, and the anticipation was mounting. I watched in wonder as the film played out on the screen. The scenery was fabulous and there were those moments where a one-line zinger or awkward moment between characters would have the audience laughing.

My vote on the newest Twilight movie is that it is fab, and yes much better than the first (even though this is to be expected as the budget and hype for this movie was much larger). For fans this is a must-see! You won't be disappointed. What do you think? Leave a Comment to let us know whether you agree or not!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Introduction to Fab or Flop

One of the new features which will be posted in the next day or so is something I like to call "Fab or Flop." This will have two separate appearances.

The first being in the form of a poll. Each week a link to an upcoming movie trailer, a song, or a synopsis for a book will be posted. You decide whether it is fab (absolutely great, you love it or maybe even just like it) or a flop (not great, weird, uninteresting). In this area you get to be the judge!

The second form fab or flop will take is reviews. Where myself, others, and maybe even you will share what we thought about books, movies, and music we have enjoyed (or not). Keep an eye out and start your engines. If you would like to send in a review just email me at vdlashley@yahoo.com . Remember to keep reviews (especially movies and books) from spoiling the story for others! Need some advice for writing a review, just ask!

A Note About Shelfari

See that bookshelf on the sidebar. That has all the new books ordered for the YA section since September. There are currently 55 titles on the shelf, and as new books come in it will continue to grow and change. The plan is to have all the books from our new shelf listed on here for you to browse through. By hovering the mouse over a cover you will see the books title, author, a description of the book and tags (which are merely a quick way to let you know the basics about the book including themes and genre). Make sure to look at the shelf regularly to see what's new and to find a good read to take home!

Monthly Favorites

Come join us for our Monthly Meetings of J-Pop and Wii Gamers. J-Pop meets on Tuesday December 8th and Wiii Gamers on December 15th. As always please register so I know how many to expect. Come into the library, call, email or click the links below to sign up!

J-Pop Registration

Wii Gamers Registration

Christmas Crafting December 3rd

 Come into the Library on December 3rd for some fabulous holiday crafting! To spruce up our teen area one of the crafts we will be doing is creating unique, awesome snowflakes to hang in the Teen area of the Library. Have a gift and want to make it extra special. Create your own custom wrapping paper using sponge stamps, paint, glitter, and more! Have someone you need to send a greeting card to (Like a Grandparent, Teacher, Or even that cute Guy or Gal you have had your eye on)? We'll have the supplies to make a custom card for that someone special along with ideas to help you on your way. But wait, that's not all. We'll also be creating our own custom Decorative Bulbs that you can hang on your Christmas Tree (or perhaps from the rear-view mirror in your car). Come join us and let your creative side shine! It is important to register for this event (and yes all others as well) to make sure we have enough supplies for everyone! However registration has never been easier! We still have the old Standbys of Coming into the library and signing up in the program binder. You can also call the library or email me at vdlashley@yahoo.com . Or better yet follow the link below to SurveyMonkey, fill out the two simple questions (Name and Grade) and click sumbit! Signing up has never been so easy! See you at the Library!

VDL Teen Blog Welcome

Welcome to the New VDL Teen Blog! I am very excited to offer new ways to find out about programs, share your ideas, find great reads that are available at the Library, and more! Keep checking back for new posts. On our Blog I am hoping to offer online registration for programs, book reviews, polls about things you like, etc. If you have something you want shared or a book that you really liked and would recommend to others let me know. Have you seen a Great movie recently, give me the title and what you thought. Found a new favorite band or musical artist, give me the info and help me let others know about your fab finds. This blog is for you so your input, advice, and help are needed to make it the best it can be! Thanks for visiting and I look forward to hearing all your ideas.