tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41191596069732972742024-03-20T23:22:58.560-07:00Writers In Progress (WIP)Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-17788060668484403862013-11-03T18:01:00.001-08:002013-11-03T18:02:40.158-08:00Ender's Game Review and Novel ComparisonI had a rare opportunity to watch a movie on its opening weekend. This adaptation of one of the best known science fiction novels/series had its successes and misses. I'm deliberately not saying "failures" because I think many were understandable. I'll start with some differences from the book and then mention some other spoilers further down.<br />
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If I was going to question something in the book it would be regarding the battle (in the spoilers below).<br />
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Overall, the movie did what was intended - it entertained. However, I don't see a sequel as a huge probability.<br />
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<strong><u>BOOK</u></strong><br />
The book had a more detailed side-story where Ender's siblings played a key role by creating fictional characters who debated the war. This set them up for gaining power back on Earth, which was Peter's goal all along. While it was interesting and led to Orson Scott Card branching off the Ender brand through them, including that could have overcomplicated the plot for this movie. It would have needed at least another hour.<br />
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This may be a bit of a spoiler but everybody knows there was an epic space battle in this movie. In the novel, when Ender was working through various final battle simulations it was interesting how in come battles, the human ships were decades old while in others, they were the latest technology. They didn't go into an explanation of the ships in the movie but they all looked same era.<br />
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Although it didn't have a lot of coverage, I liked the use of the game in the book. <br />
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As I recall from the book, there was a bit more character development with Bean also. He had more strategic importance than Petra, but I guess for a movie it was better to develop the female character. But in the book series, this story was retold from Bean's POV in Ender's Shadow. Petra's role in the movie battles was very different from what I remember in the book - see the spoilers for more on that.<br />
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One other interesting component for the novel was that Ender was groomed to be a hero, he was going to be a hero everyone feared. When the battle was over and humanity no longer had a common enemy, factions would fight for all of the battle school children, but none more than Ender.<br />
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<strong><u>SPOILERS FOLLOW:</u></strong><br />
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First. My reference to the varying ages of the ships. That was a clever way to show how humanity has actually been sending waves of ships to the alien's outposts and home world for years. By going near the speed of light, months seemed to pass for crews when years or decades passed.<br />
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Another clever, and subtle component was when Harrison Ford turns to the display that gives a warning of an approaching invasion fleet. They don't go back to it, but I thought it was odd (knowing that there was never an enemy fleet approaching). Then in the battle scene I realized that it was estimated time for the human fleet to reach the enemy world and fleets.<br />
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Bean and Petra. The movie didn't really do enough to develop Bean. In the books, he was being groomed to potentially take over if Ender couldn't finish. Bean was important enough to have a spinoff of the series. <br />
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Petra seemed to be developed in the movie as Ender's right hand person, but when they went to the actual battle, she ran one ship. Didn't it have a crew? She had enough importance to be transferred to Dragon Army and be part of Ender's final team, but then she just ran one ship that only had one chance to fight or shoot? It seems like the had her on the team just because she was Ender's girl friend. Seems a bit sexist and condescending to the character. Oh well. It was entertaining. I'm glad Ender found the queen at the end even though I'm not itching for a sequel.<br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-28543588201773620162013-09-06T12:16:00.001-07:002013-09-06T12:16:51.167-07:00RIP A.C. CrispinIt is a sad day for the science fiction community. Author Ann Crispin (A.C. Crispin) passed away this morning.<br />
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Star Trek fans probably know her best for books like Sarek and Yesterday's Child. She wrote many Star Wars books including the Han Solo Trilogy. Her last novel is a prologue/prequel to Pirates of the Carribean titled: Pirates of the Carribean: The Price of Freedom.<br />
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Star Trek and other fans can read her farewell at:<br />
<a href="http://www.startrek.com/article/ann-crispin-says-goodbye">http://www.startrek.com/article/ann-crispin-says-goodbye</a><br />
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Ms. Crispin taught at many writer workshops. In fact, I participated in one at Atlanta's Dragon Con in 2007. I'll never forget her personal critique of one my submission and a question she asked about one character in particular. "Does she pee?" <br />
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No, I'm not joking.<br />
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Ironically, this year was the first year I have been able to participate in Dragon Con since then.<br />
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RIP Ann and thank you.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-57770693425361312912013-09-02T18:30:00.002-07:002013-09-02T18:30:37.277-07:00Dragon Con 2013 RecapFor the first time, I was able to get out and go to the Dragon Con in Atlanta. I am so glad that I did. It rebooted my desire to get back to writing. Being divorced for a year now and a single father doesn't leave a lot of writing time, but I want to get back into it again. Not to say I've totally slacked. I have re-written and re-edited a military sci-fi/space opera novel that I am going to start pitching this fall. But I haven't really started anything new. That's going to change.<br />
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Friday. I went downtown immediately after dropping my son off at school. I waited in line for about an hour and got my pass. Since I had to get back home in time to pick my son up from school, I left shortly after noon, but spent enough time walking around to familiarize myself with where most things I wanted to attend were.<br />
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I spent a lot of Saturday going to writer workshops. Some had some decent information but others seemed geared more for people who either haven't finished any projects or are just getting started. I didn't really go to many panels. At least not the ones with the biggest names that you have to wait in line (outside in the heat) for about an hour. One panel I went to included the author of my favorite current series - The Lost Fleet. Jack Campbell was part of a Military Sci-Fi vs. Space Opera panel. Other well known sci-fi writers included Mike Resnick, John D. Ringo, Jean Marie Ward, and Timothy Zahn. For anyone who's seen these authors it should come as no surprise that John Ringo was the comedian of the group. I also splurged on getting a cool looking light sabre for a Jedi costume that I hope to have together by Halloween. Since I'm practicing a sword form, I should be able to make a pretty convincing Jedi.<br />
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There were three real highlights for Sunday. One was the charity auction. Not exactly something you'd expect to be really exciting, but I got a copy of Jack Campbell's newest novel (an uncorrected proof of the novel which is to be released in October). The other highlight was participating in Dragon Con's attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Record for most people gathered together in Star Trek costumes. I'm not a real cosplay type, but I did have a 2009 Star Trek movie-style red shirt (I know). So I grabbed black pants and joined the group. Although we didn't break the record we had fun. I even allowed myself to be photographed being "killed" by a Gorn, Borg, eaten by a Horta, and Bat'lethed by a Klingon. I was the South Park Kenny of Star Trek (Oh my God. They killed red shirt!). I also went to a panel discussing what editors and agents are looking for. I even made some contacts with agents who gave me their cards and I will try to submit my sci-fi novel to some time in the next week.<br />
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Monday, I attended a time travel panel Jack Campbell was on to get his autograph on the book I picked up at the auction. I'm not a real autograph hound, but this was irresistible. I also went to a writing hard sci-fi panel with Timothy Zahn, Bob Mayer, and Stephen Antczak.<br />
<br />Overall, it was a fun experience and I'm looking forward to 2014.<br />
<br />That's all for now. After a long con weekend, I have laundry to finish!Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-32109727461625652672013-06-17T04:55:00.003-07:002013-06-17T04:55:47.846-07:00Man of Steel. Entertaining but no "Super"man.I went to see Man of Steel over the weekend with my 8 year old son. He actually started getting a bit bored after about 1-1/2 hours. In general the movie was entertaining and the flashbacks showing Clark growing up weren't bad. The explanation of why Krypton was being destroyed and how Kal-El was different from other Kryptonians wasn't a bad twist either.<br />
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Although Henry Cavill and Amy Adams were the top billed stars, my favorite was Russell Crowe's portrayal of Jor-El.<br />
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Overall this reboot had one of the same major flaws that Star Trek Into Darkness had. Plot direction. When you are trying to create a new direction and new vision, don't go back and re-use the same villain from a previous version/movie. Zod was a great villain in Superman II. There are lots of other superpowered enemies Nolan and Goyer could have used to guarantee action: Brainiac, Darkside, Mongul... Doomsday would be good for a sequel. <br />
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SPOILERS<br />
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The scene where Clark's mother, played by Diane Lane helps him start to learn focus so his super hearing and x-ray vision was good and it helped create a temporary vulnerability in other Kryptonians - who were overcome by the sounds picked up by their super hearing and got a bit freaked by the sudden onslaught of odd sights with uncontrolled x-ray vision when their helmets were compromised. I get it. Their suits/armor and helmets create a filter, but ONLY for those powers? They still flew, has super strength, and super speed? <br />
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Also, I wasn't fond of how easily Lois Lane tracked down Clark/Kal-El based on stories and rumors and then called him Clark throughout the movie, went to his mother's house... Makes it kinda hard for him to setup a secret identity. Superman himself doesn't make it any more discrete at the end when he knocks down the spy plan tracking him and then tells the General "I grew up in Kansas. What could be more American?" Did he have to be that specific? He could have just commented on his growing up in the U.S. and never trying to seize power. Zod had helped confirm that mentioning that Earth had been "sheltering one of his citizens." <br />
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Bottom line. Man of Steel was entertaining, but not super. <br />
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So, 3 movies about Justice League heroes in recent years and only one really measured up? If the movie powers that be are really thinking of a Justice League movie to match up with X-Men or Avengers success, they need a new direction. Maybe hire the team that handled Smallville?Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-37146812749386952402012-06-11T05:26:00.001-07:002012-06-11T05:27:24.118-07:00Prometheus in Black III (two movies for the price of one blog) Minor spoilersOver the weekend I had a chance to see both Prometheus and Men in Black III. Bottom line, both were entertaining, but I'd give the edge to Prometheus just because it was the fresher of the two.<br />
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Prometheus:<br />
Previews and trailers hint about how the mission of Prometheus is based on ancient astronaut messages found by scientists. Not a bad premise. (MINOR SPOILER) It gave an entertaining twist on the creation vs. evolution story with a brief discussion about aliens who may have influenced our evolution. Dr. Elizabeth Shaw (always wearing a cross) has a great line about the aliens when asked about the religious implications - "Somebody had to create them." <br />
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Now, I'm a Christian, but I have some reservations about creationism vs. evolution. Maybe they're both right. Maybe God did it all in 6 days, but 6 days from God's POV could be very different and people during biblical times probably couldn't have understood the idea of anything taking millions of years. Anyway, back to the movies.<br />
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I liked Noomie Rapace as female lead Elizabeth Shaw. But in many ways, the one who stole the show was Michael Fassbender as David. He was creepy from minute one. <br />
Charlize Theron gave a good performance as Meredith Vickers. Definite Alpha female material with a chip on her shoulder and not trying to hide that she had her own agenda (but keeps that to herself - she just wants to put everyone on notice).<br />
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MIB III (or MIIIB):<br />
Entertaining, but I'm hoping this will be the last of this series. (Spoiler ALERT). No Zed or Frank at all. While Frank would probably have gotten annoying, I loved Rip Torn as Zed in the first two movies.<br />
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Josh Brolin did a phenomenal job as young K. Kudos for the casting there. There were times I wondered if they'd dubbed in Tommy Lee Jones's voice. That said, I think they could have picked a better villain than Boris the animal. Oh well, nobody's perfect. It was also fairly clever how they explained (or hinted) why J wasn't effected by the timeline change when Boris goes back and kills young K.<br />
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The character Griffin had some interesting abilities, but his babbling got a bit annoying. He could have easily become the Jar Jar Binks of the movie. Fortunately it didn't come to that.<br />
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Also, the tech downgrades to 1969 were funny (especially the neurolizers).<br />
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SPOILERS<br />
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Prometheus:<br />
When Meredith Vickers invites our two heroic scientist to talk and there is the brief discussion of her quarters/lifeboat and how self-sufficient it is, they might as well have just said that would be a critical means of escape. It wasn't as subtle as Ripley's skills with the loader in Aliens (her coming out at the end using it to fight the queen was a great twist in that movie). Maybe if they'd made Vickers more of a germaphobe or something it wouldn't have been so obvious.<br />
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One "plot" problem I had was that if the world Prometheus went to was a launch site/bio weapons lab that was creating weapons to destroy Earth, then why leave the clues so it could be found? Was this a subtle example of the super villains monologuing their plan because they didn't think the humans could ever stop them?<br />
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I was also puzzled a little about David's first victim. I didn't get a full sense of why he did what he did. Maybe just scientific curiosity.<br />
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MIB:<br />
When J and young K met up with and got assistance from the Colonel back in 1969, it took about 5 seconds for me to figure out who he was. Some of that was hinted by older K. Just how many African American colonels were there back in 1969? I may catch some flack for this, but the rank seemed a bit too high for an African American for that time. Perhaps a lower rank would have attracted less attention (NCO or a lower ranking officer, like a captain). <br />
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I started laughing when young K pulled out the 1969 portable neurolizer and tried to boot it up (dial tone/login sounds that anybody who's had dial-up Internet would recognize). <br />
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That's all for now. And please remember to always tip your servers. It could save lives.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-8628281019471050152012-05-05T18:00:00.002-07:002012-05-05T18:00:37.760-07:00AvengersLast night I attended the openning night of Avengers. Unlike some, I wasn't jumping up and down about how absolutely fantastic, perfect, and awesome it was. Keep in mind that if you listen to too many of those comments, you could hype it up too much. That said, I really just have good things to comment on with the movie.<br />
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Warning, I may post some minor spoilers, but I'll try not to give too much away. The one that I will give right now is that some rumors are true. There are <strong>TWO (2...1+1...doubles...)</strong> end credit scenes. The first after the first part of the credits showing <strong>XXXXXX (personally censored)</strong>, the probable villain for an Avengers 2. Now some comic collecting ultra-fans of mine commented that they see no way to integrate this villain into a sequel. To that I say, it's based on comic books (sci-fi/fantasy stuff). Nothing is impossible.<br />
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For writers, here are some of the things that worked. First, the Avengers were a diverse group of characters who form a team. I've commented on this in the past. It's a great formula for books, TV, and movies. Why? Because one hero may not always appeal to everybody. So what do you do? Bring in different personalities. Even the less-than-super characters like Agent Phil Coulson have an important place. <br />
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What else worked? A great mix of action, interaction, and humor. Tony Stark delivered great action and comic relief (as you would expect). But the best jokes were the ones you didn't see coming (hint - the second end credit scene was purely for fun. It had no teaser, but it was worth waiting a couple extra minutes). Black widow showed some vulnerability (real or not - you decide). You also really see how clever she is. She uses some femininity and sexyness, but not quite in the traditional way. Definitely not just another pretty face. <br />
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I had a mixed opinion of Captain America. In some ways, I think most people were expecting Tony Stark's overwhelming presence to lead the team, but I was a little surprised when he basically asks Captain America for the battle plan when they get ready to face the enemy.<br />
<br />If I was going to point out one thing I think could have been better. The circumstances around the second transformation for the Hulk for the last battle.<br />
<br />Speaking of the big green. Tony Stark had the funniest lines, but some of Hulk's actions really got the best laughs. Particularly with Loki (nuff said on that).<br />
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Summary - lots of fun and it will be very difficult for a sequel to be better. I hope they realize that just adding bigger explosions won't make a better movies. We know the actors and director can rise to the occasion. Let's hope for a good script. Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-92221393760087658702012-04-04T19:30:00.000-07:002012-04-04T19:30:08.185-07:00My Protagonist Might Have AspergersSorry I haven't been able to post for so long, but it's been even longer since I've actually been able to work on my story. Life can get in the way, but I've been thinking about some critiques I've received regarding one of my characters. Some have commented on his lack of emotional range. <br />
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Originally, I intended to write him as somewhat reserved, maybe emotionally withdrawn. If you haven't read any of my descriptions, my protagonist is a partial telepath - he can detect all thoughts around him that pertain to him. Consider how many close friendships you would make if, throughout your life, you always knew the truth about what everyone around you thinks about you? Add to that the fact that he genetically inherited his mother's memories - including her being attacked and stabbed just before his birth. He's not too quick to trust.<br />
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I thought that would be his main character/personality limitation, but last year, something changed. My son was diagnosed as high-functioning autistic. Like most parents, I started researching it and started making some correlations with my protagonist. I'm continuing to review some basic material and compare with my character's personality. I believe that I've inadvertently given my protagonist Aspergers traits. Since this is science fiction, I decided to work that into the story. Since the story takes place about 500 years in the future, I'll assume a cure for Aspergers/Autism would be found. My protag's affliction would be like Aspergers in almost every respect except for the fact that it is brought on, largely, due to a severe trauma pre-birth or at birth. This affliction gives tendencies for the brain to reduce or shut down part of their emotional processing because they were effectively overloaded at birth. The symptoms will mirror Aspergers so much that he'll be misdiagnosed and treated for Aspergers. <br />
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One thing I know is that I still have a lot of work to do to make this work but hopefully, this will become a good character development. More importantly, I would love for this story to bring more attention to Aspergers/Autism.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-85412878353347918432011-11-02T09:52:00.000-07:002011-11-02T09:52:46.891-07:00Robot Nurses and Tractor Beam May Be Here SoonIn another example of Star Trek influencing real-life technology/research, NASA is spending $100,000 to analyze <a href="http://www.dailytech.com/Aussie+Scientists+Have+New+Pull+as+Tractor+Beam+Goes+the+Distance/article19583.htm" target="_blank">tractor beam techniques</a> at its Goddard Space Flight center. The article referenced discusses past research and intial successes with "optical tweezers" that can trap objects in small lasers. Near-future applications could include installation of such devices on rovers to be sent to other worlds or deep space probes - allowing them to collect samples that otherwise would not be obtainable. Personally, I like the idea of the "optical tweezers." This could be a good term/technology for writers to use, especially if they want a credible tech basis for their writing. When I first heard it, I was thinkinging mainly about healthcare applications - like optical surgery, but you make your own decisions.<br />
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Speaking of healthcare, Roomba owners might find this interesting. Toyota and iRobot has developed a home-use "robot nurse" named <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2011/11/01/technology/toyota_robot_nurse/index.htm" target="_blank">Ava</a> which could be available for purchase as early as 2013. I must admit that the video attached to the article isn't exactly something to ooh and ah about. Ava looks like a mobile broomstick/post with a tablet computer on top. That tablet would seem to be the key as the iRobot CEO mentions can show the face of a doctor or actually connect to a real physician. What isn't really mentioned is that this device could probably be easily adapted for healthcare monitoring. I mean basic vitals could be taken with attachments (automatic blood pressure cuff, pulse sensor, pulse/ox meter, respiration...) that are currently used by medical professionals.<br />
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The robot article also shows an example of another device attached to a patient's leg from the knee to the foot. The caption shows the device as something that could help patients walk, but not just by giving support and possible muscle enhancements. Patients who undergo knee surgery could use this device as part of their rehab and reduce the time needed with a physical therapist.<br />
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I've discussed bigger examples of this type of technology in my <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4119159606973297274#editor/target=post;postID=8291274883870578275" target="_blank">Iron Man 1/2 </a>post last year. One thing I find interesting is the size difference between the device shown in the post developed last year and the picture of the device on the person's leg. While there are obvious differences in functionality, it's still interesting how much more streamline the medical device is and it's technology is only one year newer.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-49559286685894997332011-10-20T18:25:00.000-07:002011-10-20T18:28:26.076-07:00The World Is Ending - Postponed From Earlier DateYou heard it here. Of course, chances are if you are reading this post after <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/10/20/why-world-will-end-again-on-friday/">Friday, October 21, 2011</a> the prediction was wrong. I'm sorry, I mean it might have just been postponed....again. You may remember the predictions of radio preacher Harold Camping who said Judgment Day would come May 21, but when it didn't happen, he said that was just the spiritual judgment day. The world will end more quietly Friday October 21. So should we waste time continuing to write and edit, or just have fun in our last 24hours (plus or minus). I mean, I have some work deadlines coming up from my paying job. <br />
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You know what really sucks about this prediction? If it's true, I'll miss the opening of Avengers.<br />
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Sometimes these "news" stories are odder than any fantasy or sci-fi story and makes me think about doing something like a short story with such a theme. Although, I think it works better for a comedy.<br />
<br />Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-79828902896861707232011-10-11T06:22:00.000-07:002011-10-11T06:23:52.382-07:00Was the Kraken Real?The answer is - maybe. That's right. One of our favorite mythological monsters, and the ship crunching pet of Pirates of the Carribean's Davey Jones, may have really existed according to an article on <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/10/10/lair-ancient-kraken-sea-monster-possibly-discovered/">foxnews.com.</a> <br />
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While direct evidence of this creature hasn't been found, there has been some evidence of its existence based on markings on the bones of ichytosaurs - 45-foot long water dinosaurs that might have been prey for the possible monsters during the Triassic period. The key evidence seems to be in bones found in one location that most likely didn't die at the same time - indicating this could have been the kraken's lair. If such creatures weren't soft bodies there might have been more fossilized evidence, but unfortunately all we have is theories and a possible location of the Kraken's dining room. Following discoveries like this can give some credibility to stories with related monsters or themes. I mean a REAL monster that snacked on 45-foot long dinosaurs makes for cool stories.<br />
<br />Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-29150298990276003742011-10-10T11:40:00.000-07:002011-10-10T11:40:19.836-07:00Real Steel Armor Has Kinks (Spoilers)Since I had the day to myself, I thought I'd check out Hugh Jackman's new movie Real Steel. Overall, I have to say that it was entertaining, but it had a really slow start. Worth going to, but try to save a couple bucks by going to a matinee.<br />
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<strong><u>Overall Strengths: </u></strong> Hugh Jackman put on a good performance to me. In the first few scenes, I didn't like him or sympathize with his problems. However, that was probably by design. Obviously he became more likable as the movie progressed. To me, the pivotal scene for him was when Bailey Tallet (played by Evangeline Lilly) was talking to Max (played by Dakota Goyo) about Charlie's boxing past and one of his best fights in his boxing career. <br />
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The special effects. That goes without saying. They were great. There were a few views of the star robot, Atom, where one repair weld on his face looked almost like a mouth. I almost expected Atom to smile.<br />
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Chemistry between Charlie and Bailey. This was credible and not overdone. This is a mild spoiler (bigger spoilers below), but I liked Bailey's line to Charlie "1,200 miles for a kiss?" Nice.<br />
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Doing the robot. When Charlie saw Max dancing with Atom, I liked how he spun it. Making it a gimick for the show. Smart and funny.<br />
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<strong><u>Overall Weaknesses: </u></strong> Max. Sorry, but I really didn't like the kid. While you saw flaws in Charlie and Bailey, this kid seemed too perfect. Not perfectly behaved and all. More like too mature, too smart, and too "right." The kid seemed to have all the right answers. His character didn't seem real to me at all. <br />
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The opening scenes were way too predictable for my taste. So many cliches and overused ideas. While the opening was a bit of a surprise (the fight at the fair), you knew exactly what would happen the moment the competitors were announced. Pretty much the same thing with the next fights.<br />
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Some of the tech that made Atom special also was a flaw in the movie. (Minor spoiler) The ability to mimick someone. Wouldn't that have been picked up more? Give human fighters a chance to compete through the robots. Only giving that one here because it is in most of the trailers. More below in Spoilers.<br />
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<strong><u>SPOILERS:</u></strong><br />
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The robot fighting a bull? Could have been better, but when Charlie started getting arrogant and paying more attention to the cute girls in the stand than the bull, I was hoping the bull would knock the robot through the fence and right onto Charlie. Besides, why wasn't the guy who set up that fight arrested for cruelty to animals? I mean the bull tore the robot up, but that guy who set it up would have been jailed for trying that. But then he couldn't have come back to kick Charlie's @ss later.<br />
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Max - annoying. Again, the kid was too perfect and too smart. From his ability to speak Japanese to his negotiating more money to the <br />
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Atom's ability to mimic was one thing, but his ability to absorb punishment and keep functioning. Again, why didn't other, newer robots have that?<br />
<br />
When the aunt was trying to console Max by telling him about all the toys she had for him to play with, I almost laughed. He never once seemed like the type of kid interested in "toys." It gave me the impression she knew as much about the boy as his father did.<br />
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Zeus running low on power. Come on. Okay, maybe they operators were so used to winning early they didn't see a point in giving enough power for a full fight, but that did make the fight a little anti-climactic.<br />
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The final fight, from the very beginning reminded me so much of Rocky, I half expected Zeus to start chanting "Zeus in 3..." Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-16468860088248295572011-10-01T19:45:00.000-07:002011-10-01T19:45:57.437-07:00Editor Picked My Submission Pointing Out The Good and The Need WorkIt seems like it's been so long since I updated my blog that some might think I'm dead. I'm not and here's some proof. I know that I've mentioned the online critique group Critters a few times. Well, I'm also using another online group - the online writing workshop for science fiction, fantasy and horror (OWW/SFF). One big difference this group has from critters is you pay for OWW/SFF, but they have professional editors on staff who review and publish comments on submissions each month.<br />
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<br />
I was thrilled around mid-September when I learned that my current submission to the OWW/SFF web site, Legacy Soldier Ch 11, was picked as the editors' choice for science fiction and a review was written up in the OWW/SFF newletter (link below). It is a critical review pointing out several areas where the chapter could be enhanced. I couldn't really argue with the comments even though I think some implied questions would be answered if the person had read from Ch 1 - Ch 11. Not saying I dissagree. What I like is that the editor (a professional editor) gave some specific examples where the chapter could be firmed up and made some overall positive remarks like:<br />
<div> </div><div>"These opportunities weren't quite fulfilled in this chapter, but the attempt is still competent, the bare bones of it there, and the idea of drafted kids with telepathic abilities, while not new, is still plum to explore. The personalities of the characters are diverse enough to provide great potential for natural conflict, and there are a few great turns of phrase that enhance this (like "telepathic friendly fire")."</div><div> </div><div>And the ending:</div><div> </div><div>"Overall the punctuation needs work and the chapter ended in an odd place, but the set up as a whole -- the plot and the characters -- all have potential; the foundation has been laid. The conflict is inherent and interesting, and that is the main requirement to drive any story forward."</div><div> </div><div> </div><div><a href="http://sff.onlinewritingworkshop.com/ww-cgi/ww/framer.cgi">http://sff.onlinewritingworkshop.com/ww-cgi/ww/framer.cgi</a><br clear="all" /><br clear="all" />Overall, I'm happy with the review. It shows me that I'm on the right track and that my story mostly needs clean-up work. Now I just hope I can get the time to do that!</div>Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-84120629300658387472011-07-26T18:26:00.001-07:002011-07-26T18:26:59.667-07:00More Deadliest Warrior Zombie vs. VampireJust thought I'd share this link. Comic Con panel discussing <a href="http://www.spike.com/full-episodes/t46f6a/deadliest-warrior-deadliest-warrior-comic-con-2011-panel-season-3-ep-300a">The Deadliest Warrior Zombie vs. Vampire</a>.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-26548251659068051772011-07-26T11:40:00.000-07:002011-07-26T11:40:23.845-07:00Book Review: The Lost Fleet Beyond The Frontier: DreadnaughtWelcome back, Black Jack! Before I get into any nitpicks, let me open with the fact that I finished this book in record time. I have limited time to read, so some books can take me 2 months to finish. I was done with this one in a couple of weeks. Now I have to <em>wait.</em><br />
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This story was fast paced and very entertaining. I liked that Jack Campbell didn't rush Black Jack and the fleet through Syndic space and into alien space. The time to get the fleet ready, problems found with the ships due to their design/combat life-expectancy, character relations... All seemed credible and helped build up interest in the characters. Especially since I haven't read anything about them in about a year - nice to get a reminder.<br />
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Here are some things I wasn't as fond of. This book was too open ended. I know it's part of a series, but in the first Lost Fleet series, I remember the books each ending with a significant event - something came to a close. <br />
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For example - Dauntless went through the story with Black Jack getting use to being in command of a fleet suffering from hero-worship while dealing with his own issues and losses. The book ended with a climactic battle. While the reader knew the series would continue, there was a feeling of closure for that part of the story.<br />
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The trickery/politics involved were entertaining. The concerns that the end of the war with the Syndics causing a rift within the alliance seemed completely credible. I was actually drafting a short story for a Star Trek fanfic contest that followed this (with the Romulans friends, there are no major threats, so some worlds would likely pull out of the Federation).<br />
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The return of Victoria Rione was expected. I love her comment "I'm a bitch, and I have to stay in practice." in reference to provoking Captain Desjani. There's a lesson here. Profanity can highlight a scene, but I think profanity is overused in literature, especially military sci-fi/space opera. Jack Campbell crafts an excellent story with good dialogue without profanity. When he uses it, it's because there's no better way to phrase it.<br />
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<strong><em><u>SPOILER ALERT</u></em></strong>:<br />
I would have preferred if this book ended with the fight against the aliens they sought. The good part of that was the development of an effective battle strategy. Saving some prisoners was good too. Maybe hint that there was another species possibly involved, but DON'T bring them in yet. I would have preferred the Death Stars wait until the next book.<br />
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I'm mixed on the development of Jane Geary. Good captain and pulled off a good strategy (deliberately disobeying Admiral Geary), but I'm not sure if I like how defiant she seemed to be.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-89180140393567801152011-07-22T12:05:00.000-07:002011-07-22T12:05:51.551-07:00My Review of Captain America - Minor SpoilersIn a rare circumstance, I was actually able to be able to see a movie <em>before</em> it goes to the cheap theater or DVD. I think it's funny that SyFy's been running marathons of The Greatest American Hero (loved that show) followed by a group of old second rate (or worse) Craptain America movies from the 70s and 80s (maybe early 90s, but they sucked).<br />
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Personally, I enjoyed doing my review of <a href="http://writersinprogresswip.blogspot.com/2011/07/not-your-typical-transformers-3-review.html">Transformers: Dark of the Moon</a>. In that review, I made comparisons with the novel. Well, the only book I could find for Captain America was for kids. Oh well.<br />
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Bottom line is that if you aren't looking for Oscar calibre acting, screenplay or anything like that, you'll be entertained. Not one of the best superhero movies, but certainly not the worst. <br />
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Good:<br />
<ul><li>There was plenty of action without it really seeming too gratuitous.</li>
<li>A couple of fun twists.</li>
<ul><li>Howard Stark's involvement throughout the movie. Remember in Iron Man 2 that Nick Fury told Tony Stark that his father, Howard, was a founding member of SHIELD. </li>
<li>In the beginning, Captain America is a bit of a joke (More in the spoilers).</li>
</ul><li>Captain America's final line. Not to sound too much like a spoiler, but there were a few references to finding the right dance partner between Steve Rogers and Agent Peggy Carter. What's the line? You'll have to see the movie. It may not seem like much to most, but I liked it.</li>
</ul><br />
Bad:<br />
<ul><li>None of the characters seemed to have enough personality. I've got nothing against Chris Evans, but he was a mediocre Captain America. I really couldn't sympathize with the character when he was down. I just didn't see the mastery of the attitudes you want like I found in Hugh Jackman's portrayal of Wolverine, Robert Downey Jr's Tony Stark/Iron Man, or even Eric Bana's Bruce Wayne/Batman. Just not much personality.</li>
<li>Hugo Weaving's German accent. I love Hugo. He's awesome, but a bit underwhelming as Red Skull.</li>
<li>Fight between Captain America and Red Skull. A bit anticlimactic. In all actuality, I'd expect Cap to beat Red Skull much easier. Why? You get the impression Red Skull was always considered a tough guy. Steve Rogers was the 89 lb weakling always getting beat up. He was use to getting hit by bigger and stronger guys but he always got up. I'd just say that he can take a punch better than Red Skull.</li>
<li>Opening scene. It takes place in modern day. This and the ending scene are typically the scenes snuck in after the credits.</li>
</ul><br />
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<br />
Spoilers below<br />
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<ul><li>Finding Captain America's shield in the mysterious reckage during the first scene made it too obvious what would happen at the end.</li>
<li>I can't help but wonder if that power source is going to be part of the Avenger's movie. You can assume it's alien tech throughout the movie, and I think the near-ending confirms that pretty well. Think about it - the whole plot leading up to the cube falling from the plane to be found by Howard Stark. What happens to the cube? </li>
<li>Does anybody else thing Red Skull will return for Avengers? It looked like he was teleported, not destroyed. Why teleport him if you don't plan to send him back.</li>
<li>Bucky dying was no big deal. Remember what I said about the characters not having enough personality? I didn't really fell a sense of loss from Steve Rogers regarding his friend. I felt more sympathetic that he couldn't get drunk!</li>
<li>I liked Captain America as a marketing tool for selling bonds rather than using him as a real soldier. I don't know if that's how it worked for the comics, but I liked it. When he's trying to entertain the troops and gets things thrown at him and the ridicule by the front line soldiers was, to me, one of the best part. It showed Steve Rogers that getting his new strength and power didn't automatically mean he'd gain the respect of those he wanted as his peers.</li>
</ul>Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-57807729616824890692011-07-04T07:46:00.000-07:002011-07-04T07:46:35.940-07:00Not Your Typical Transformers 3 Review. (I Hope) WARNING - SPOILERSThis is a blog about writers/writing, so I thought I'd add a little about differences between the movie (which I saw last night) and the book (which I read last week).<br />
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First, I have to say that, as a Star Trek fan, I loved the casting of Leonard Nimoy as the voice of Sentinel Prime. Old-school Transformer fans might remember Mr. Nimoy was also cast as the voice of Galvatron (a rebuilt Megatron) in the 1986 animated Transformer movie. Those who weren't sure about the voice of Sentinel should have had all doubts removed during one scene in Chicago as the space bridge is being prepared when Sentinel uses a comment that Kirk and Spock used in several Star Trek movies starting with STII: The Wrath of Khan, "The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few." I can't help but wonder if Mr. Nimoy came up with that idea or if it was the writers.<br />
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Anyway, back to the point of the post. First, I found the movie fun, fast, and entertaining, but in no way was it Oscar-worthy. That's fine. I've seen Oscar winning movies that I thought were highly over-rated. The turning of Sentinel Prime was an interesting twist. When I first saw Sentinel in a preview, I had to ask myself why make his face look like it has a mustache. It obviously highlights that he's older than Optimus Prime, but they're robots - they don't grow facial hair. Same with Jetfire in Transformers 2. Why do they have to sound older? Maybe give them deeper and slower voices like you'd get from a toy when the batteries are getting low [chuckle to myself].<br />
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Another problem. Why is Megatron so messed up? In Transformers 2, Optimus ripped Starscream's arm off, and Starscream put it back on with no tools. Why couldn't the Decepticons get parts to fix Megatron after part of his face/head was blown off in Transformers 2? That was a bit annoying to me in the book and movie.<br />
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One of the big differences in the book was that the book had the Autobot Twins (the annoying little Autobots from Transformers 2). In the book, when Sentinel turns and kills Ironhide, he then turns his weapon on Bumblebee, but one of the twins sacrifices himself, jumping in the way and takes the blast, saving Bumblebee. The other twin goes absolutely balistic and attacks Sentinel. While he doesn't last long, the sheer fury of his attack buys Bumblebee time to escape. I understand why that wasn't in the movie. Too many people would probably have watched that scene and labeled Sentinel as a cinematic hero for offing those two despite his evil turn and rooted for him to win the day.<br />
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Another difference, while not as big, is Que - the old-looking Autobot who helped design weapons (assumingly named/nicknamed after the James Bond weapon/techie Q). In the book, it's Wheeljack. Surprisingly when I looked up the credits to confirm the name, the voice credits all say "Que/Wheeljack." I never heard the name Wheeljack being used in the movie or the name Que in the book. While Que was just gunned down in cold blood/lubricant, Wheeljack went down fighting. When the bridges went up in Chicago, Wheeljack went in the drink and was ambushed. He took out one of his attackers, but was quickly overwhelmed. The book also smartly pointed out that separating Wheeljack from the others and Prime from his trailer was deliberate - separate Autobots and humans from their best weapons.<br />
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When the space bridge control pillar is destroyed in the movie, it looks like Cybertron may have been destroyed - the book implies otherwise, that it's just sent back. The movie effect looked like it was sucked into a black hole (not at all as it seemed to appear beyond Earth).<br />
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Finally (biggest spoiler below). And this was a big twist. After Carly (in her only purpose-related scene) pisses off Megatron to get him into the fight by calling him Sentinel's bitch (great line), Optimus and Megatron do destroy Sentinel together, but Optimus never kills Megatron. In fact, Megatron tells Optimus he's tired of fighting and just wants to find a way home, to rebuild Cybertron without a conqueror's mentality. Optimus is skeptical but lets Megatron go warning that he could become a target of other Decepticons. Megatron seems willing to accept this risk. This could lead to interesting future book storylines. Following the book, Megatron could come back to Earth and ask Optimus for help. Optimus would obviously go (eventually) but always wary of a trap. Following the movie ending, it would just be another Decepticon. I'd prefer a following of the book's ending.<br />
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Overall, I found both to be fun and fast. I usually take twice as long to finish a book and need at least one bathroom break in a 2+ hour movie, so I'd say both are worth the time.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-15877718063849687512011-06-27T06:26:00.000-07:002011-06-27T06:26:51.307-07:00Worms Bringing New Credibility to Life on Other WorldsSo called "<a href="http://news.yahoo.com/video/science-15749654/could-worms-unlock-answers-of-life-on-other-planets-25754311">worms from hell</a>" may help unlock answers to the question about whether or not it's possible for life to exist on other worlds. Nobody's saying that these worms were brought here be extraterrestrials of course. Round worms called <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nematode">Nematodes </a>were found about a mile underground in South African gold mines. Nematodes are very resilient creatures, being found in all kinds of habitats: polar, desert, along the ocean floor, in fresh water...<br />
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While it's not surprising to find worms underground, before now nobody thought that complex/multi-cellular life forms could exist in the harsh conditions that you would find so deep underground. That's where the tie-in to life on other planets comes in according to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Marc-Kaufman/e/B004DGNJ5A">author Marc Kaufman</a>. After all, if they can exist in such varied and harsh environments here on Earth, why not on other worlds?Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-74078590106548484532011-06-10T11:33:00.000-07:002011-06-10T11:33:15.117-07:00Gas From Uranus? Let The Jokes BeginOne way I've read to fuel a theoretical interstellar space ship is using Helium 3. While not abundant on Earth, there's plenty on <a href="http://dvice.com/archives/2011/06/floating-gas-mi.php">outer planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus</a>, and Neptune. <br />
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Using a concept like this would be great for science fiction. The article talked about a space-gas station created at these planets. But I see other possibilities. Why limit yourself to interstellar space travel? What about in-system and using the gases for other sources. A writer could turn this to corporate sci-fi with competing gas mines. This could lead to threats of in-system wars, embargos... I think I've said enough about that.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-25920087575787199292011-06-06T05:27:00.000-07:002011-06-06T05:28:50.906-07:00Deadliest Warrior Analyzes Zombies vs. VampiresThat's right. After seeing a recent commercial advertising the upcoming 3rd season of The Deadliest Warrior on Spike TV, I checked the site to see some examples. Scrolling down a bit I almost couldn't believe my eyes, but a quick click on the video link and viola - <a href="http://www.spike.com/video-clips/n5heay/deadliest-warrior-the-deadliest-warrior-pits-vampires-vs-zombies">Zombies vs. Vampires</a>. While the video really doesn't really give a preview of the episode content, it is still an interesting idea. I've been a big fan of the show since it premiered because of its analysis of various warrior cultures, the techniques they use, and (or course) an analysis ot their weapons.<br />
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What's would be unique about an episode pitting zombies against vampires is the weapons part. The Deadliest Warrior typically had experts bring four weapons - long range, medium range, short range, and special weapons. What I'd really like to know is how that's going to work with zombies and vampires. What "weapons" will they analyze?<br />
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What's fun about this is that fantasy writers might be able to use some of this information in developing stories with these two classic monsters. Okay, so it wouldn't be a complete source of information, but it could give some ideas that could add credibility to the story.<br />
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Then again, this could be just one big joke by Spike TV. But I hope not. Maybe the producers could add more like Werewolf vs Vampire and a couple of others, then have a Deadliest Monster Warrior marathon on Halloween.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-69852819444748732582011-05-25T05:33:00.000-07:002011-05-25T05:33:32.110-07:00Cool Stuff From Kepler For Science Fiction WritersA couple of days ago, I found a link to an interesting article on space.com. The article/slide show focuses on the strangest alien planets found by the <a href="http://www.space.com/159-strangest-alien-planets.html">Kepler spacecraft/telescope</a>. Some of the worlds discovered could be particularly interesting for science fiction writers who want to include real science to add to the story credibility. Here are a few examples of worlds from the slide show and how they could be used. <br />
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<ul><li>Closest planet: Epsilon Eridani b orbits an orange sun-like star only 10.5 light years away. Whether your story uses faster-than-light (FTL) travel, near-light-speed, or stasis, you could reference such a world as a staging area for sending ships deeper into space. A space station or planet-side outpost coule be used. It could also be a staging area for an aggressive species planning to invade Earth.</li>
<li>A planet in Globular Cluster M4 is referenced as the oldest planet found - an estimated 8 billion years before Earth. If you want to discuss more advanced races, an older planet is a good place to start, that way you don't have to get into debates on the speed of the evolutionary process. They had a head start.</li>
<li>Fastest planet: at only 740,000 miles from its sun, this planet makes its orbit every 10 hours. I honestly couldn't say how to use it, but it just seemed too interesting not to mention.</li>
<li>Waterworld: A hyperspace-hop, slipstream-skip, and warp-jump away at only 40 light years lies GJ 1214b. Researchers believe that this planet (about 3X the size of Earth and over 6X as massive) is most likely a water world. I shouldn't have to give the obvious suggestion that humans move to this world for the water. It could be a good place to bring up aquatic alien life (sentient or otherwise). But another possiblity is another staging area. Load up on more water for consumption and/or splitting water atoms to take oxygen for life support and hydrogen for fuel.</li>
<li>Dying world: WASP-18 is another world with a fast orbit - less than one Earth day and scientists theorize it could be orbiting closer to its star and impending doom. This could be tied to lost civilization, planetary evacuation types of stories. Encountering ships from the survivors.</li>
<li>Most Habitable: Gliese 581 d. Only about 20 light-years away this is apparently the world with the greatest possibility for being habitable. It's about 8X as massive as Earth. I googled for a bit more since I'd heard of Gliese 581 before and found similar stories about the Gliese 581 c possibly being habitable. Note that 581c also has a quick orbit - 13 days. Again, obvious story-lines one could use include staging area for deeper space travel, colonization... Consider the potential difficulty of colonizing a world with a short orbit.</li>
</ul><br />
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Keep in mind that Kepler's mission is to search for Earth-sized/like worlds. Some of these don't fit that description, but they're interesting nonetheless.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-67400400624741367672011-05-23T07:37:00.000-07:002011-05-23T07:37:38.031-07:00Researchers Grow Brain Cells.According to an article I read through the Fox News web site, researchers have reported success in <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/scitech/2011/05/23/helper-brain-cells-grown-lab/">growing brain cells</a>. That's right, brain cells. The cells in are called astrocytes and can play an important role in diseases like dementia and others effecting the central nervous system (astrocytes are found in the brain and spinal cord).<br />
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Naturally I'm sharing this for what it could mean to writers of science fiction. Technology to regrow brain cells could eventually lead to curing many brain-related illnesses, correcting brain damage suffered from accidents...<br />
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On another note, this article shows how quickly things we see as possible only in science fiction can quickly make the sci-fi technology obsolete. Fans of Star Trek: The Original Series will no doubt remember the episode "Spock's Brain" where Spock's brain is stolen and used to run an underground complex. McCoy, with the help of an alien teaching device eventually puts Spock's brain back. But with this technology, perhaps it would be possible in 200-300 years to regrow the brain. Perhaps they could just download the consciousness. <br />
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Another Star Trek reference is the Next Generation episode when Worf's spine is broken and an experimental treatment is used to regrow his spine. In about 300 years, that could be more common than shown.<br />
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Okay, Worf and Spock aren't human, but that's not relevant. In both shows, it was indicated that the situation would have been as dire for humans (or worse). Who knows. By the time those dates really come around, such repairs could be as routine as an appendectomy is now. Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-64509261122711484212011-05-19T18:59:00.000-07:002011-05-19T18:59:44.236-07:00The Zombie BrainI recently stumbled across this cool article on the <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/04/25/zombie.virus.zombies.book/index.html">zombie brain </a>- how sci fi teaches science. Some interesting components include references to child psychiatrist, Dr. Steven Schlozman's new novel "The Zombie Autopsies." While I'm not a big reader of zombie novels (although I love AMC's Walking Dead), I'm always interested in the perspective of experts turning up the science fiction in their fields or related fields. Schlozman's novel seems to use a one-part resident evil, one part cold virus in that the virus was deliberately engineered but can be passed without taking a bite out of helpless victims.<br />
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Inserting some facts, the virus would have to completely destroy the frontal lobes to take away higher reasoning and logic functions. If you've watched Walking Dead, you may remember a scene in the secret CDC bunker where the scientist was experimenting with zombie blood and had actually scanned his own wife's brain as she deteriorated, died, and turned zombie. The scene showed the scan of her brain as it shut down and then only a small part started working again.<br />
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The article goes on to discuss how such a virus would be made, how we'd probably fight back, and even ties it to actual infectious diseases we face today.<br />
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Overall, and interesting article and a promising premise for the book. If the book is half as intriguing as this article, it should be a great read.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-56873731447609613532011-05-05T18:31:00.000-07:002011-05-05T18:31:41.223-07:0050th AnniversaryAs Cinco De Mayo comes to an end, let us take a moment to remember an important historical event - one especially relevant for sci-fi and space fans. It was 50 years ago today that Alan B. Shepard Jr. climbed into the Freedom 7 capsule and, in a 15 minute sub-orbital flight, became the first American in space.<br />
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Thank you Mr. Shepard.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-23808262711610051162011-04-29T19:22:00.000-07:002011-04-29T19:25:16.488-07:00Trying to Regroup and RecoupHow do you regroup and restart writing when faced with a loss of past work/edits? I figure that one is to do the same thing I did when I finished my first novel draft - have some fun with a short story. When I glanced at some of my recent blog stats, I noticed my post on the <a href="http://writersinprogresswip.blogspot.com/2010/12/starfleet-fanfic-contest-2011.html">Star Trek fanfic contest</a> had some recent hits. <br />
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The good and bad of it is that I've got a couple of ideas for stories, but I'm not sure which to choose. Contest rules limit to one story.<br />
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One idea follows the last Next Generation cast movie - Nemesis. With the Romulans becoming friends, all of the Trek villains are now allies. Starfleet wants to promote Picard to admiral and make him a figurehead in the Federation. Some high ranks in Starfleet are worried that with all the known Trek villains now friends, that this will actually split the Federation. Why? You'll have to read it and find out.<br />
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The second story idea takes place about a year after the JJ Abrams Trek movie. The Enterprise has spent lots of time touring the Federation with the crew being more like celebrities than Starfleet officers and explorers. Kirk finds things becoming very routine and actually getting dull. When a chance for action comes about, he jumps at the chance - too quickly and people die for the first time as a direct result of his orders. How will he react? Think about it. His situation is really no different than a Navy Academy Senior going from the classroom directly to command of an aircraft carrier. Is he truly ready to command?<br />
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So, which to write? I think both have potential. Obviously <em>I</em> think they do or I wouldn't consider them! I'm open to input. Which sounds more interesting?<br />
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Share your feedback and<br />
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Write On.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4119159606973297274.post-88172497450159801632011-04-29T13:35:00.000-07:002011-04-29T13:35:50.779-07:00Rest In Peace William CampbellActor William Campbell died today. Star Trek fans will remember Mr. Campbell as Trelane, The Squire of Gothos and (more importantly) as Captain Koloth from what many consider to be the best of the original series episodes, The Trouble With Tribbles.<br />
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I'm sure that true Klingon fans will stare into the eyes of death and howl a warning to the dead for one of the greatest Klingon warriors has joined them.<br />
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Rest In Peace Mr. Campbell and thank you.Rob Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06598217971862352016noreply@blogger.com0