Book Review “The Hammer Story”

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gives a very thorough film-by-film breakdown and is jam packed with amazingly rare promotional material and previously unpublished photographs.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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Book Review “Hammer Glamour”

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.

Book Review “Seagalogy: The Ass-Kicking Films of Steven Seagal”

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”.

Book Review “Watching the Watchmen: The Definitive Companion to the Ultimate Graphic Novel”

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.

Book Review “The Unofficial Game of Thrones Cookbook”

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.

Book Review “The Unofficial Hunger Games Cookbook”

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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Book Review “Star Trek: The Art of the Film”

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.

Book Review “Tales From Development Hell: The Greatest Movies Never Made?”

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.

Interview with Rick Goldschmidt

Rick Goldschmidt is the current Rankin/Bass Historian and Biographer. He is a lifetime for an Rankin/Bass’ work. He has published three books to date about their work including his latest called “Mad Monster Party”, which focuses solely on that film. Rick is also a musician and has worked with members of the band Gin Blossoms. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Rick about Rankin/Bass and also his book.

Mike Gencarelli: What was the first Rankin/Bass production that made you a lifetime fan and their current historian and biographer?
Rick Goldschmidt: I think it would probably be “Rudolph”. That is still probably my favorite of the bunch. I like the simplicity of it especially the design work by Tony Peters. I really think it’s their crowning achievement. “Mad Monster Party” runs a close second as I am a big Jack Davis fan. I like the classic monsters.

MG: What was your most challenging part making your first book “The Enchanted World of Rankin/Bass”?
RG: Rounding up as many images as I was able to get was probably the hardest part. Rankin/Bass really didn’t save much. A lot of their stuff went into dumpsters. Years later I found out from some friends that the Rifkin/Bass office used to be above I think the TV museum in New York. I actually got a Jack Davis painting from a friend of a friend who stated he garbage picked it. They really didn’t hang on to a lot of their artifacts. I had to go out and search conventions and toy shows.

MG: The book is currently out of print, any idea when another printing will be released?
RG: I still do a print on demand type of thing. They are still available but on a very limited basis. I think going into Christmas of this year we may go in and update the book and do more of a mass printing. It will probably be similar to what we did with the “Mad Monster Party” book. I am going to try and do an Easter book and cover “Here Comes Peter Cotton Tail”. Vincent Price was a big part of that as Evil Iron Tail. I think that had a big influence on Tim Burton. That was a very gothic type character.

MG: Tell us about your latest book “Mad Monster Party”?
RG: I have been collecting a lot of stuff related to “Mad Monster Party” and “Rudolph” especially as they are my favorites. The Jack Davis aspect was a big part for me. That’s sort of how I found Rankin/Bass by talking about “Mad Monster Party”. Jack was still doing odds and end for them and in fact he even did a newer version of “Mad Monster Party” with Arthur Rankin not that long ago. They tried to do something with CGI however I never got to see it because Arthur is pretty protective about things that don’t see the light of day. I am always trying to find out more about the classic holiday specials because I really enjoyed those works the most.

MG: What do you like most about stop-action animation compared to CG which is commonly used today?
RG: I think the stop motion stuff has a completely different feel. Arthur Rankin describes it as a warmer style of animation. The CGI stuff comes across colder. 85-90% of what’s being done in CGI these days is not looking unique. There is a lot of it out there that doesn’t have any particular style or finesse. Even thought they were CGI assisted I prefer Tim Burton’s work on things such as ”The Nightmare Before Christmas” and “The Corpse Bride” over a lot of the CGI films that are out. I did like Pixar quite a bit because they focused on the story over the CGI however, when I saw “Cars 2” the story went completely out the window. I think Disney’s involvement with the company has hurt it more than helped it.

MG: Do you still keep in touch with Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass today?
RG: Yes. Jules is not as open to doing discussions about Rankin/Bass and his previous work. He is not very involved in that kind of thing but Arthur still talks about that stuff and I talk to him on occasion. Arthur has sort of always been the voice of Rankin/Bass. Jules was more involved with the voice actors and songs. He has moved on and written books for children. He recently had one of his novels “Monte Carlo” adapted into a movie. I was surprised that that film finally got made as I had heard some time back that Nicole Kidman had bought the script and that she was going to star in it with some other big name actresses. I have heard before that “Mad Monster Party” was going to be made into a motion picture also but I don’t know how you would do something like that. The charm of that movie is the puppets.

MG: What is next for you and Miser Bros. Press?
RG: I am definitely going to do the Easter book and have it ready to come out on Easter. I have some cool things that I want to put in it. I want it to look very Easter candy basket. Their specials for Easter make the holiday for me as they really capture the spirit of the holiday. We will probably also being doing some updates to the first two books and release them in mass printing form.

 

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Book Review “It’s a Big World, Little Pig!”

Author: Kristi Yamaguchi
Illustrator: Tim Bowers
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: March 6, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Kristi Yamaguchi is an award winning figure skater, who has won many championships and it turns out she is also a really great author. Her last book “Dream Big, Little Pig!” was a New York Times Bestseller. This second book in her series continues with a new adventure for Poppy the pig. The book is just so welcoming from the cover to cover with amazing illustrations by Tim Bowers. The illustrations are so colorful yet warm and really accompany the words well. Although only 32 pages, the story is just so empowering and delivers this wonderful message abut overcoming your fears, which is great inspiration for children.

Poppy faces a new adventure in this book; the World Games ice-skating championship in Paris. Poppy although nervous about visiting a new place and meeting new people, she is strong and packed by a supportive family. On her new journey is meets a snowboarding Panda, a skiing Maltese, a Crane and a Kangaroo, who also skate. The main message of the story shows that even though they may look or act different, they are just like her. Such a sweet and yet powerful message in this story.

With my daughter on her way (due May 2012), I am really looking forward to sharing this book with her. I believe that she will really enjoy it and hopefully it will inspire her to follow her dreams and dream big. Kristi Yamaguchi really knows how to tell an interesting story and capture the interest of both the children and their parents (which is not an easy task). I look forward to future books from her, especially in this series.

Book Review “Horror Cinema”

Author(s): Jonathan Penner, Steven Jay Schneider
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Taschen
Release date: April 18, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Horror is easily my favorite genre of film. When you thing of Taschen you this of high quality books and beautiful photos. Well, that is exactly what you get with this 2012 update of this fantastic look into the world of horror filmmaking. If you are a fan of horror films, this is a MUST purchase and it is available at a very reasonable price as well, only $14.99. This book is really an amazing visual journey.

The book itself is split into ten parts covering all different aspects of the genre. The categories covered are the following: Slashers & Serial Killers; Cannibals, Freaks & Hillbillys; Revenge of Nature & Environmental Horror; Science-Fiction Horror; The Living Dead; Ghosts & Haunted Houses; Possession, Demons & Evil Tricksters; Voodoo, Cults & Satanists; Vampires & Werewolves; and The Monstrous-Feminine. I mean is anything left out here!? Nope. They cover every single aspect of horror.

The films featured in this book have such range and do not focus on a specific time in the genre’s history. It ranges so well from 1920’s “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” to “Jaws” to “Gremlins” to “Creature from the Black Lagoon”. Of course there are also the classics like such as “Psycho”, “Alien”, “The Exorcist”, and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”. I really enjoyed the rare behind the scenes look that this allows us to see a different side of our favorite films. For example, we get a look of H.R. Geiger holding an egg from “Alien” or Steven Spielberg sitting on Bruce the shark from “Jaws”.

Like I mentioned, Taschen is known for its high quality work. This book contains ridiculously high quality photos, some are even full page from our favorite horror movies. I also really enjoyed the atmosphere that the book develops ranging its photos from crisp black and white to glorious color. Horror fans will love the fact that this book is also no-holds barred. It is not afraid to show a ton of gore and nudity. This book will be prominently placed in my bookshelf and shown off to all my friends that also enjoy horror.

Book Review “The Titanic For Dummies”

Author: Stephen Spignesi
Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: For Dummies
Release Date: February 1, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

With the Titanic celebrating it’s 100th anniversary this year, expect a lot of coverage on this subject all year. This book is a must for an history buff and it provides enough information for even those to claim to know everything about the Titanic. “The Titanic For Dummies” covers every single aspect of the shipping from its building of the ship to that fateful night to its affect on pop culture i.e. James Cameron’s “Titanic”.

The book is split over six parts and twenty chapters. Part 1 focuses on the last 100 years and how the Titanic has become a legacy. This ranges from the building, to its board members and even the menu on the ship. Part 2 deals with unfortunate sinking of the ship. It focuses on its collision, the survivors (including first hand accounts), the news coverage and its investigation. Part 3 explores the mystery of what went wrong and many other unanswered questions for the final hours of the ship. Part 4 deals with the journey to revive the sunken ship wreck. Part 5 takes a look into how the Titanic has been explored in pop culture. Lastly the final part is called “The Parts of Tens” and focuses on ten artifacts, myths and documentaries about the Titanic.

If you are familiar with other “For dummies” book then this one is really no different, expect it is a very interesting read. I have read many of these but they are usually about computer or technology and more for necessary knowledge and not pleasure. I really enjoyed reading this and I will look forward to spread this book around to others who will also able to enjoy it. If you are unaware also this April, James Cameron’s “Titanic” is being re-released in 3D to commemorate the 100th anniversary. This topic is one that will never fade away and never forgotten through time.

 

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  • Book Review “The Greatest Sci-Fi Movies Never Made”

    Author: David Hughes
    Paperback: 368 pages
    Publisher: Titan Books
    Revised & Expanded Edition
    Release Date: July 25, 2008

    Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

    I think we all forget that some of our favorites films have long journeys to the big screen and some never even get made.  Whether it is changing directors or projects falling through, this book reveals the “what if” factor of many sci-fi movies that were never made.  This revised & expanded edition contains over 100 pages added to the book.  It is a must for all sci-fi fans and probably movie fans in all.

    The book is kicked off with a great foreword by H.R. Giger (designer for “Alien”), it is a great insight into his career and about his dealings with Hollywood.  I am a huge movie fan especially the sci-fi genre and this book is really such a great insight into these lost films.  Some of them I would have loved to have seen like Terry Gilliam’s “Watchmen” or Tim Burton’s “Superman Lives”. Then there are some that I would have hated like Nicholas Cage playing Superman.  I also enjoyed the fact that this wasn’t consisted of re-hashed knowledge and there was a lot of new information that I never knew about.   Author David Hughes made sure to back this book with a bunch of great new interviews with the people involved with the writers and directors of these lost projects.

    Besides providing new information, the book is also very detailed and includes thorough information like budgets and technical information about these films.  I enjoyed that most about this book, especially because I am a big statistical nerd.  Lastly, who else should provide the afterword to a book aimed at nerds, then the biggest nerd, Harry Knowles aka the famous blogger from Ain’t it Cool News.  He gives good insight in the wrapping up the book and its message.  If you enjoyed this book also check out Hughes’ latest coming out February 28, 2012 from Titans Books called “Tales From Development Hell: The Greatest Movies Never Made?”.

    Book Review “My Boring-Ass Life: The Uncomfortably Candid Diary of Kevin Smith”

    Author: Kevin Smith
    Paperback: 512 pages
    Publisher: Titan Books
    Expanded and Updated Edition
    Release Date: September 22, 2009

    Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

    Yes, you are not misreading the cover wrong Kevin Smith is a New York Times Bestseller author.  This book is a very personal in-depth diary into the life of Kevin Smith.  The expanded and updated edition of the book adds a behind-the-scenes look  at the making of “Zack and Miri Make a Porno”.  A new afterword is also included which pretty much brings us up to date on what Kevin has been up to and what he has (or had) planned for 2009.  The subtitle of “Uncomfortably Candid” is definitely not an understatement either as the entries in this book are just as vulgar as his film scripts.  Nonetheless fans of Smith, will eat it up and get a chance to get inside of his mind.

    If you think that the life of Kevin Smith is all razzle and dazzle you might be disappointed though coming into this book.  You will find that some of it is dull and uneventful but between watching his TiVo, Kevin also finds time to make kick-ass movies like “Clerks II”.  The book isn’t all jokes though, he also dives into the personal details of Jason Mewes’ drug addiction battle. Like myself you really need to be a die-hard fan of Smith in order to really take away the most from the book.

    If you are looking for a typical autobiography, this is not what you would be looking for.  I actually enjoyed the diary format of “My Boring-Ass Life”, because it feels more personal and complete.  We get to experience Kevin’s full account for each day in his life as he completes his  journey entries.  Once you get started with this book it is almost hard to put it down and it is a rare book that actually gets better as it goes on.  If you don’t own this book already, it is recommended highly that you pick it up but get ready to laugh and be offended at the same time.

    Book Review “Shootin’ the Sh*t with Kevin Smith: The Best of the SModcast”

    Author: Kevin Smith
    Paperback: 384 pages
    Publisher: Titan Books
    Release Date: September 22, 2009

    Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

    I have to start this buy saying I never (and still haven’t) got into the whole podcast phenomenon.  I am sure that they are absolutely hilarious if you chosen the right one  but I never found the interest.  SModcast began back in February 5, 2007 and this book is perfect for people that have not been listening this day one. This book consists of transcriptions of Kevin Smith’s favorite SModcasts.

    The conversations between Kevin and his friend/producer Scott Mosier are absolutely priceless.  There are no topics that are safe and nothing that is too weird.  I don’t know how it is possible but an example from SModcast 78, the duo mixes the topics of jaundice and wait of it “Star Wars”.  Absolutely classic.  Jennifer Connelly takes topic in SModcast 37 and the guys talk about her remaking movies. I just need to quote a line from this one: “KS: If  somebody said “Jennifer Connelly is going to be in a remake of Goodfellas, do you get mad?”, SM: I don’t think that there is a remake that would make me mad.”  The topics are mostly for adults only and are very raunchy but that is what makes them so funny.

    This book isn’t just transcriptions, there is also fun illustrations by Michael Macari. Kevin Smith honestly knows his way with words and of course we all found that out with the script from “Clerks” and his work following.  If you enjoyed “My Boring-Ass Life”, this is a great companion to that.  Honestly I am sure that these are much funnier with live audio but this is a great way to catch up on the back log and just get the best of.  “Shootin’ the Sh*t with Kevin Smith” is a must for all fans of his work!

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