Author: Philip R. Klein
Paperback: 343 pages
Publisher: Klein Publishing
Release date: January 23, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If I asked you about the “Patrick McDermott Case” you might not recognize what I was talking about. But if I added “Olivia Newton John”s missing boyfriend” before the name you’d certainly understand.

In the summer of 2005, while on an overnight fishing trip, Patrick McDermott vanished. A quick and hasty search by the Coast Guard, as well as investigation “experts” on land, concluded that he must have fallen overboard and drowned.

In the search for the ever popular ratings, the television program “Dateline N.B.C.” contacted famed investigator Philip Klein and asked him if he would take one of two cases they had been following. Intrigued by the celebrity aspect, and the fact that nothing seemed kosher in the information presented to him, Klein took the McDermott case. For over two years he and his team interviewed witnesses, checked alibis and investigated leads previously dismissed. And they got their man!

A true storyteller (I would love to just sit down at a table with Mr. Klein and hear some of his exploits), Klein begins the book in the middle of a harrowing plane ride. With his wife, Inga, he is escorting a suspected kidnapper and the young child she abducted back to Texas. Approaching the runway at 200 MPH the front landing gear fail to lock, causing the plane to skid. Cool heads prevail, thankfully, and everyone gets off safely. But those few minutes inside the plane are riveting. Once Klein accepts the case he and his team begin to systematically follow the clues. And there are many. Most of them point to McDermott’s horrid ex-wife, described by anyone that would talk about her as a bitch. And that was the polite word. As the case progresses Klein and his team literally travel the globe, setting traps and beating bushes. Taking advantage of the world wide web they set up a “spider” web site, one that captures the IP address of everyone that visits it. They also set up a public web site which, within 48 hours of the first “Dateline N.B.C.’ show airing, crashes 39 times and gets over 2 million hits!

While Klein is the lead investigator he also praises his “team,” from his office workers to his field men. And to Inga! It’s clear that she is the force which guides him, both personally and professionally, and his words of appreciation ring true.

If you’ve ever wanted to get inside a missing person case…and I mean INSIDE…then “Lost At Sea” is a fine entrance.

Author(s): Rian Hughes, Imogene Foss
Hardcover: 240 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 6, 2011

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

When it comes to anything science fiction…sign me up. I have always been a fan of the genre ever since my family used to take me to the Sci-Fi Diner in MGM Studios (now Hollywood Studios) in Walt Disney World. There was always just something about the out-of-this-world design that really drew me in. Chris Foss is known for his work in this area with creating some of our times “coolest” sci-fi art.  The book is a beautiful visual journey through his work. Though it if you are looking for supporting text to provide insight into each piece you will be disappointed.

Foss’s unique and groundbreaking science fiction art dramatically raises the bar in the 70’s-80’s. It is known for its realism and invention mixed with his science fiction twist. The art you will find within this definitive work ranging from his trademark battle-weary spacecraft to his dramatic alien landscapes. If you ever read any science fiction novels in the 70’s-80’s, then you are familiar with his novel artwork for sure. I just love his ideas and his creations. I just would have like more background on each image.

This volume features Foss’ work for books by Isaac Asimov, Doc Smith, Arthur C. Clarke, A. E. van Vogt and Philip K. Dick, and film design for Ridley Scott and Stanley Kubrick. Titan Books did a great job of releasing a very sweet looking book overall. The images on the pages are so crisp and colorful that it literally draws you to the page. If you are fan of Foss, you will enjoy being able to view many rare and classic images that have never been seen or reprinted before.

Author: Ian Fleming
Paperback: 344 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: April 12, 2011

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love James Band.  Ever since I saw my first Bond film “Goldfinger”, I was hooked.  There is just something about this character that is just timeless throughout generations.  Ian Fleming has easily created the world’s most famous secret agent.  This book is the second volume in a collection of James Bond original daily comic strips.  This book is easily one of the best in the series as well.  You can read out past reviews here for “Omnibus 001” and “Omnibus 003“.  If you love yourself some James Bond, than these books are sure win.

Bond is renowned for sipping a Vodka Martini while winning in a casino, join him today by visiting www.galacasino.co.uk

This volume contains seven of Iam Fleming’s stories and contains where “Omnibus 001” left off bringing us the comics based on the novels that inspired the movies. If you are a fan of these that you are going to love a chance to read these in the original comic format.  The stories included are: “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”, “You Only Live Twice”, “The Man with the Golden Gun”, “The Living Daylights”, “Octopussy”, “The Spy Who Loved Me” and “The Hildebrand Rarity”. This is the very first time that these comic strips have been available in one format.

” Omnibus 002″ is the longest in the three volume series to date.  It matches “Omnibus 003” with seven stories but less than “Omnibus 001” with eleven stories.  James Bond has been entertaining audiences for over 50 years and this just proves that it will continue for many more.  Titans Books is well known for releasing high quality work and this one definitely does not stray from its norm.  Like its previous volumes, it has very sharp and clear black and white color and the paper feels like an old newspaper.  This is really a treat and very much recommended to any true 007 fan.

Author: Ian Fleming
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: December 1, 2009

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Usually with volumized books, you would start at volume 1, or 001 in this case. I recently had “The James Bond Omnibus 003″ show up at my door to review. I was not familiar with this series but loved it, read review here.  Nonetheless, I tracked down the first volume in the series and in fact it is actually better than the later.  James Bond has always held a special place in my heart.  I though have been a bigger fan of the earlier films than the recent ones from Pierce Bronson onwards.  If you are a fan of 007, this series is a must own.

“Omnibus 001” in case you didn’t known is a collection of comics featuring our special agent 007 from Ian Fleming.  This volume contains eleven of these original daily comic strips.  The following is the reason why this triumphs over “Omnibus 003”.  This volume includes the very well known stories of: “Casino Royale”, “Live and Let Die”, “Moonraker”, “Diamonds Are Forever”, “From Russia with Love”, “Dr. No”, “Goldfinger”, “From a View to a Kill”, “For Your Eyes Only” and “Thunderball”.  If you are a fan of these amazing films, you are going to love a chance to read them in comic format.

Titan Books is really known for treating the world’s most famous secret agent 007 very well.  They have released many great collections and these “Omnibus” books are just a great item to own for all fans of 007.  As I mentioned in the review for “Omnibus 003”, the paper in the book feels like an old newspaper so it really makes it feels authentic.  Like i mentioned before I hope there are more volumes in the work for this series because I can never get enough of Ian Fleming and his crafty suave secret agent.

Authors: Alison Castle, Christiane Kubrick and Jan Harlan
Hardcover: 544 pages
Publisher: Taschen
Release Date: October 1, 2008

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have to start with this is probably the book I am most proud to have in my library. I have been a fan of Stanley Kubrick since I become a film buff many many years ago. My favorite film of his is “The Shining”, it is a film I can watch literally every day of the week. This book is such a tribute to Kubrick and his wonderful very unique work. I do not think that there will ever be another director that is able to replicate the magic that Kubrick was able to conjure up in his films. If this is the last book every written about Kubrick, I strongly believe that it will be enough to continue his legacy for years to come.

The book is split into two parts. The first part contains over 800 film stills scanned directly from the original prints and interpositives. I swear I cannot even count how many times, I have went through this section just starring at each image. The clarity of the images are beyond impressive and overall extremely outstanding. So if you think that is cool, then you are going to be simply blown away by the second part. This section contains about 800 items from the archives, most of which have never been published before. I am absolutely in love with this section and I was able to get a glimpse in Kubrick’s vision with images I have never seen before.

To continue with this books outstanding contents, there are all essays from Kubrick scholars Gene D. Phillips, Michel Ciment, and Rodney Hill. There are selected articles and essays, including interviews with and essays by Stanley Kubrick. They are a must ready for any true fan of Kubrick. Lastly there is all an illustrated Kubrick chronology. Every film of Kubrick’s is showcased and given the royal treatment in this, nothing is left out. If you can call a book breathtaking, that would be the perfect way to describe this.

Author: Jurgen Muller
Paperback: 640 pages
Publisher: Taschen
Release Date: February 15, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Looking back at the 2000’s first ten years of movies, if it unbelievable how many absolutely amazing films there were during this period. Well book is the perfect companion to assist with that task. Some of the pictures are not crystal clear but I would like to think that they were like that for artistic purpose. Not every shot is perfect freeze framed. The only disappointment and I think it is a little embarrassing even for Taschen is that within this fantastic book, it is also packed with typos. For example, it misspells “Benjamin Button” as “Benjamin WButton”. That is only factor really stopping this book from receiving 5 out of 5 stars.

It hard to look back in the 2000’s because it doesn’t seem to long ago but there were some really ground breaking movies in the last few years. To showcase some of them: “Avatar”, The Bourne Trilogy”, “Moulin Rouge”, “The King’ Speech”, Everything from Pixar like “The Incredibles” and “Wall-E”, “Harry Potter” series and of course the  “Pirates of the Caribbean” series. Those are just a mere few of my favorites. There are literally hundreds of movies showcased through these near 700 pages.

Each film in the book is not only put in the spotlight but also packed with great information including synopsis, film stills and production photos, cast/crew listings, fun trivia, technical information and of course actor and director bios. It honestly has everything you will need to learn about some of your favorite films or maybe even some that you might have missed in the last decade. After reading this book, I am very curious to check out Taschen’s past installments of past decades.

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Author: Ian Fleming
Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: April 3, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

James Bond is the longest film series to date and is continuing that trend when the 23rd Bond movie hits theaters this November. Well, this book let’s travel back to the original comic days created by Ian Flemming. It celebrates James Bond and his adventures in comic strip form. If you are fan of James Bond, this is a real treat and great addition to the series.

The book is softcover but has a really strong shiny cover. I love the paper quality too since it feels like an old newspaper. Includes inside are seven of 007’s most thrilling and dangerous missions: “The Harpies”, “River of Death”, “The Golden Ghost”, “Fear Face”, “Double Jeopardy”, “Starfire” and “Colonel Sun”. These stories look glorious in black and white and are real page turners.

Personally, I have never read Bond in comic form before so this a real treat for me. It hard to believe but it is just as thrilling and exciting to follow the comic as it is the movies. Since this book is actually the third volume in the series, I would definitely recommend checking out the first two as well. I will also be looking forward to future installments from Titan Books as we get closer to November 2012 and the latest Bond film.

Be sure to check out our reviews from “The James Bond Omnibus 001 and 002“.

Author(s): Marcus Hearn, Alan Barnes
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Revised edition
Release Date: September 25, 2007

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Hammer Films, legendary British company, has been release some of the best genre films in the last fifty years.  It is also responsible for making international stars out of Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee and many other actors.  This book is that story of this amazing company that is still making great films today like “Let Me In” and “The Woman in Black”.  I have read many other book about the legacy of Hammer but they are usually about the posters art or the woman of Hammer.  This gets to the real heart of Hammer’s history.

Marcus Hearn, known for his work with Hammer, is the author on the title and he got some really great insight into the history of the company and was nice enough to allow us to take a rare look into their archives. “The Hammer Story” gives a very thorough film-by-film breakdown and is jam packed with amazingly rare promotional material and previously unpublished photographs.  It is really amazing to get a chance to view this material and you really get taken into this book and take a journey through its history.

The great thing about this release is that it is put out by Titan Books and they have always impressed me.  The pages are so crisp and contain such beautiful high quality images.  There is a forward by Mr. Christopher Lee himself.  It is fantastic to get Hammer’s main star to tell his experiences but the only issue is that it was written in 1997, which was for the first edition of this book. I wish that when this book was revised in 2007 that they would have gotten Lee to update his forward.  Nonetheless, this is a real treat for all horror fans and especially fans of Hammer.  It is a no-brainer purchase and will make a fantastic spot on your coffee table for sure.

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Author: Marcus Hearn
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 29, 2009

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Hammer has been known well for its over fifty years history of mixing sex and horror into some of the best titles in the genre. It all started with the release of “Curse of Frankenstein” and Christopher Lee in “Dracula”, from there Hammer redefined an era of sexy horror. This book is a showcase of the many beautiful women that are known best for their work in Hammer’s films. It contains many classic well-known and loved images from the film archive.

The book is authored once again by Hammer-expert Marcus Hearn. All of the Hammer books that I have ever read were authored by him. He is the ultimate go-to guy when it comes to Hammer films and their legacy. This book is a little different than the ones before it. This one focuses strictly on Hammer’s luscious female stars, including Ingrid Pitt, Martine Beswick, Caroline Munro, Barbara Shelley, Joanna Lumley, Nastassja Kinski, and of course Raquel Welch. These women are so iconic from these films and such sexy yet elegant, never tasteless.

These rare and previously unpublished photos included are so glorious and high quality. Titan Books is really known for produce high quality especially with their art books. Theses images are special from Hammer’s archive and private collections worldwide. Also included are many new interviews and well with the showcased talent. Just note if you are familiar with Hammer’s films then you will know that this book is not for kids at all to view. Hammer fans these is a fantastic collection and tribute to these wonderful woman and their films.

Author: Vern
Paperback: 512 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
New Updated Edition
Release Date: April 3, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Whether like Steven Seagal or not there is just something about him that drives me crazy. Like the fan craze and “Facts” surrounding Chuck Norris (another one of my favorites), Seagal is just one kick ass son bitch. I guess I am obviously not the only one. The author of this amazing look into the career of Steven Seagal is one of our times most unique film critics and well known for his unorthodox reviewing style. He was even called “a national treasure!” from Hellboy director Guillermo Del Toro.

This book journeys through more than 30 films from the world’s only aikido instructor turned movie star/director/writer/blues guitarist/energy drink inventor…that’s right…Steven Seagal. It is both very funny and also very intelligent. You know that when you are reading this that Vern is a man that knows his Seagal and is very passionate about it. I also have never known that there was such a thing as a Seagologist but I know there is now. There is an amazing introduction from David Gordon Green, who is a one and also the director of the hilarious comedy “The Pineapple Express”.

Listen we all know that some of Seagal’s movies man not be perfect but they also do one thing kick-ass and that is enough for me. Also what is great about this book is that it doesn’t even stop at the movies, it goes deep into Seagal’s career like this famous Mountain Dew commercial to this blues records and also his real life role as a deputy police officer in Parrish County, Alabama and his work using that role in his hit TV series “Lawman” (which is an amazing show and where’s season three A&E?) So sit back and get ready to some laughs and dive into one of our time greatest “ass-kicking auteur”.

Author: Dave Gibbons, Chip Kidd, Mike Essl
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: October 21, 2008

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have been a huge “Watchmen” fan dating back to the original graphic novels. When the film came out, which I LOVED, I felt like it literally jumped off the pages of the novel. This is the ultimate visual companion to the amazing graphic novels. You know that this book is going to get some love since it is authored by award-winning artist of the “Watchmen” series Dave Gibbons. We get a chance to dive into his profound personal archives. It is really a must own for all fans of the series, no questions.

It is really rare that you are given this candid of a look into new material. I mean you feel like you are sitting looking through Gibbons’ personal diary. Fans of this series you are going to flip out with the reveal of never-published pages, original character designs, page thumbnails, sketcher, alternate posters, covers and rare portfolio art. The detail in the image are just so crystal clear and high quality. It is the kind of book that you are going to look through and then read it completely and then look through it again.

This book had a lot of love put into it and you can tell. With a series like “Watchmen” it has a very loyal fan base and it’s obvious that Gibbons is a really big fan himself. Props need to also go to Chip Kidd and Mike Essl for some amazing design in this book as well. Props should go to Titans Books for continuing supporting this series and releasing book after amazing book keeping this series alive and continuing to deliver new and exciting release to their fans.

Author: Alan Kistler
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Adams Media
Release Date: April 18, 2012

Our Score: 2.5 out of 5 stars

HBO’s “Game of Thrones” has become one of the most talked about shows last year. With the show returning for its second season fans are getting exciting for more. Well luckily thanks to Adams Media and the creator and co-host of “Crazy Sexy Geeks” we get a cookbook from the show. Fans of the show will have the opportunity to create more Than 150 Recipes from Westeros and Beyond, including Direwolf Ale to Auroch Stew. Overall I wasn’t really thrilled with a lot of the recipes but I am sure that fans of the show will enjoy a chance to eat like a Lannister.

One thing this book has is a variety it ranging from brewing your own spirits to exotic sweets and a hearty entrees that come right out of George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire series. Some of the notable recipes include: “Tyrion’s Leg of Lamb”, “Wilding Grilled Pork Chops with Stir-Grilled Apples”, and drinks like “Tears of Lys” and “Arbor Red Wine—the finest spirit in the Seven Kingdoms”. There is many choices in this book and if you can imagine the fest that take place in this series, than you should be able to imagine what you would be able to make.

When I think of “Games of Thrones” I just see long table full of meat and a lot of drinks.  Well this book will definitely get you there…if you have a big enough table.  I could this being a big hit if not only for the liquor during weekly viewing parties of the show.  Fans of the show, this would be a no brainer and will add another level to your watching experience.  Non-fans should steer clear and this wouldn’t do much for you at all.

Author: Emily Ansara Baines
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Adams Media
Release Date: December 1, 2011

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

The worldwide phenomenon, “The Hunger Games” is finally hitting theaters this week and what way to celebrate that to get a chance to cook the same food from your favorite trilogy. I have NOT jump on board the whole “The Hunger Games” and in fact strongly dislike it…but this book does have some really cool recipes. If you are of die-hard of “The Hunger Games”, this will definitely spark your interest especially since it packs more than 150 Recipes Inspired by “The Hunger Games” Trilogy, everything from Lamb Stew to “Groosling”.

So the whole point of “The Hunger Games” is survival right? For the first time, you will be able to create the same delicious recipes from the both sides of the series ranging from District 12 to the Capital. Some of the notable recipes are: “Katniss’s Favorite Lamb Stew with Dried Plums”, “Capitol-Grade Dark Chocolate Cake”, “French Bread from the Mellark Family Bakery” and “Brined and Bagged Wild Turkey”. Of course they are the impractical ones just for the fans like “Mr. Mellark’s Favorite Fried Squirrel”.

One thing I do like about this book is that every single recipe actually comes backed with a great reference and description from where it is located in the series. I think that is pretty cool, actually. Overall this book does have a nice variety of recipes. Of course it is obviously though this is really only for hardcore fans of the series. If you’re hungry for more from “The Hunger Games”, this cookbook is sure to leave you satisfied and full.

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Author: Mark Cotta Vaz
Hardcover: 160 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: November 17, 2009

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

I have to say I have never been a Trekkie myself but after watching J.J. Abrams’ new vision, “Star Trek” has sparked a great interest in me. This book is a wonderful celebration of his work. I have a very soft spot for “art of books” but his one is just so absolutely beautiful. The images and colors are just so high quality and vibrant. There even is a fantastic foreword from director J.J. Abrams. As I am sure many were rebooting “Star Trek” was a really big deal but it was nothing short of amazing as is this book.

The book does not waste any time from the contents page which includes amazing full page photos. The contents of the books covers everything in the films production from the U.S.S Kelvin to re-imagining the U.S.S Enterprise to the creation of the Narada and the Kobayashi Maru. It goes into great depth into the films characters as well focusing on the Romulans, Rura Penthe and the new fleet. Also in really great depth we get to see the design of Starfleet Academy, very cool stuff. There is a great focus on the costume designs and uniforms in the film. There is even a section on poster design, which shows the enormous planning that went into choosing the art. There is all the above and yet still more. This book has everything you could possibly want and it ist honestly the essential companion to the film.

New York Times-bestselling author Mark Cotta Vaz was involved very closely with the film’s production team, which is why this book works so well. The book includes previously unseen pre-production paintings, concept sketches, costume and set designs, unit photography and final frames. I really enjoyed the set designs and concept art, it is easily my favorites. Any fans of Star Trek or sci-fi in general need to get this book as it is a must to have fir this fantastic film.

Author: David Hughes
Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Updated Expanded Edition
Release Date: February 28, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

In the past few months I have found myself becoming a very big fan of author’s David Hughes. His last book “The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made” is similar to this one but focuses in one genre. “Tales From Development Hell” is backed by amazing research and just proves that Hughes knows his films. When I first started to get into movies very deeply I always wanted “Jaws 5” to be made during the 90’s and I would constantly see the words show up development hell…and 20+ years still no “Jaws 5”. It is truly a writers, directors and stars worst nightmare where the scripts are written, actors hired and sets designed…but no production.

This newly updated and expanded edition includes two new chapters that are worth the purchase alone. The previously last chapter “The Incredible Shrinking Film” is expanded focusing in-depth on James Cameron’s then-planned remake of “Fantastic Voyage” and his journey.  The new final chapter which was added is called ” Tales from the Script”.  Since Hughes is an screenwriter himself he knows what it is like to go through development hell with a script.  In the chapter he focuses on his own Hollywood struggles and projects in limbo.  It is a very great chapter and is a breath of fresh air for all aspiring screenwriters.

I seem too learn something new with each of Hughes’ books.  In this one, I discovered that The Beatles were once in talks to star in “The Lord of the Rings”…The Beatles?! Also Clint Eastwood was once talked about starring in a planned “Batman” film.  Those two alone are impressive enough for me (and boy am I happy they never got made). Along with Hughes’ amazing research he also does a great job with getting interesting exclusive interviews with the writers and directors involved with some of these lost projects.  It is a true must for all movie buffs.