Jax's Artistic Journey...

I may not have read many books in 2009 but I sure have seen a lot of movies in the winter months through the start of 2010. Whether it was renting DVDs obsessively or going out with friends and family, I discovered a new way to get inspired. I suppose my love for the movie industry has always helped me to become a visual storyteller. What's not to love about seeing your hero and heroine delivering your lines so convincingly and passionately. Fine, it works in my head :)

One of the most romantic movies I've seen is the YOUNG VICTORIA which stars Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend. You'll love the chemistry and the gorgeous costumes. History couldn't be more interesting and after getting to watch the advance screening, I actually thought about penning a historical--right. Maybe next time. I whole-heartedly recommend this movie because it is simply fantastic. A romantic sleeper hit if you give it a chance...c'mon, just do it.

Okay, I caved into AVATAR and it's another example of romance in movies. Maybe the general public is starting to grasp how sellable a good love story can be...perhaps they'll even turn to more romance books. I've had the fortune of meeting James Cameron in person and he's a nice guy. Quiet and a bit reserved but friendly. During the buzz of the movie I've heard that he was a total jerk to a fan...but I wasn't there and that's what TMZ likes to showcase. Who knows, but I will tell you I enjoyed this movie for the sexy Sam Worthington. It had some issues that could be easily overlooked--but it's indeed another entertaining movie.

I'm going to have to say that I'm a big PRIDE & PREJUDICE fan. I'm with TEAM DARCY all the way so any version of the movie I will love. When I heard about LOST IN AUSTEN a few years ago I hunted for it but it was only available for the UK. I finally got my hands on a copy and I totally adore it! It's witty, fun, and takes the story to a whole different level. Another recommend that I am certain you Austen fans will find enjoyable.

I'm not kidding when I say I've seen at least 50 movies so I'm only touching on a few of them. What I discovered during my lull was that these movies that made me happy helped me to get back into the writing frame again. Sometimes your mind just doesn't want to create and it's not from lack of wanting to write. Sometimes your mind is telling you that it needs to be fed and by watching movies, it's a great way to subliminally influence you to create. Besides, it doesn't matter where you get the inspiration, it just matters that you're allowing your mind a little bit of breathing room to re-energize. I've produced more in the last few weeks (however sporatic) but at least I'm writing...which is really the key. One foot in front of the other will get me a completed proposal, short, etc.

I hope that when you're in a funk that you take time to do the things that will inspire you again. It might be easier than you think. Stress tends to be the blinders that limit you from seeing the endless possibilities flowing around you. It's there, you just got to open your eyes to it.

Happy Writing!

It's been a tradition for me to watch THE HOLIDAY since it's release and although it's not a classic, or the best romantic comedy I've ever seen, it's always entertaining and has a happy ending that I adore. I like the two storylines but the main reason I love the movie is simply...Jude Law...and of course, the character he plays. C'mon, he's cute as pie and oh-so charming to boot--so how can you not love him? You have to admit the English have a great arsenal of leading men....Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Ralph & Joseph Fiennes, Clive Owen...I can't have enough of them!

Oh, yeah...this movie always makes me crave spicy tuna rolls so I had to go out and get some yesterday before my movie :) We watched HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT THE MORGAN'S? It was more dramedy than comedy. There were a few good one liners from Hugh but the main focus in the movie was about the couple trying to resolve issues in their relationship before they decide to divorce. It was a decent movie but I don't think I'd be able to watch it again like I would THE PROPOSAL.

OMG, I have to tell you--my nieces and I rented the HANGOVER and I wasn't so sure I wanted to watch it. I'm not a fan of gross humor but this movie was so freakin' hilarious I couldn't help laughing non-stop. Now I know why I love Bradley Cooper so much! He plays the best jerk and he's terribly pleasing to the eyes. I was a big fan since Alias and I'm glad to see his career has taken off.

Since I've been home I've spent more time renting movies and catching up on all the old ones I've missed. It's a lot of fun while I'm re-decorating my room and it helps make the time pass. Sometimes it's good to separate yourself from writing because I'm able to see the different character archetypes and story pacing in the movies I've seen. It's a sort of writing exercise and it makes me think. I'm a big fan of romantic comedies because even when my stories are darker, the underlying hero is always very gamma...a mix between alpha and beta. I want these male leads to be strong, funny, sensitive, smart, and chivalrous...they are more real to me than if I were to write a hero who is chauvinistic or a wuss...which often I have a problem with in some of the books I've picked up in the past. I like the bad boys just as much as the next guy, but I'm more apt to go for the guy who makes me laugh and will pull out my chair at dinner or walk me to my door at the end of the night.....

What kind of heroes do you write about?

I saw this image on AOL and it made me laugh. A little inside joke on my part...Ahem, I will say that the weather is nice and sunny here in my neck of the woods. The perfect day to kick off Springtime...

With the warmth of the sun's rays, I'm already planning vacations that involve sunscreen and bikini gear for just the occasion. This is also the best time of year to go on movie binges. For instance, I've been fascinated by those particular rentals that people often overlook. Granted there are a few that I understand why they sit on the shelf...well, Mr. Right and I live close to a Blockbusters and that can only spell t-r-o-u-b-l-e. I'd say every other week we rent between 4-6 movies at a time. So, it finally dawned on me that we really ought to get Netflix. Don't get me wrong, I love to support the local rental places but when you're paying $20+ for 4-5 movies, with penalty fees if you're late, it really adds up. Let's weigh the cost, shall we. One price per month. Movie comes in the mail, when you're finished viewing, you pop them back in the mailbox without needing to leave your home. The best part is, you can choose your movies online, hassle free and without anyone looking over your shoulder. Hummmm....on the other hand, this is just contributing to a lazy society...

Let's talk movie...I hadn't heard much about SEVEN POUNDS nor did I have any inkling what the story was about. I've noticed the darker, more emotional roles Will Smith has been tackling lately and, that alone, appealed to me. The movie starts off a little slow and viewers may be slightly confused but...wait for it...just pay attention and you'll get sucked in. Based on the first fifteen minutes you know it's going to be a tearjerker but you can't stop watching, you can't stop hoping that there's some glimmer of hope. It does happen and the budding love is so sweet and tender...but once you're deeply invested in this man and his actions, you have to be prepared for what's to come...

In a nutshell: I recommend this movie if you're wanting a good cry and aren't afraid to do it. Just have the tissues on standby.

SEVEN POUNDS
Academy Award® nominee Will Smith (2006, Best Actor, The Pursuit of Happyness) stars as Ben Thomas, a man at a crossroads. He embarks on a journey to help change the circumstances of seven strangers who deserve a second chance in life. But when he opens his heart to a beautiful woman who needs his help, he risks everything he's planned for one last chance at love. From the director of The Pursuit of Happyness comes this "life changing motion picture you will not easily forget." - Pete Hammond, HOLLYWOOD.COM

I'm not obsessed with Nora, not exactly. I've been intrigued and a bit enamored by her ability to create and consistently grow as a powerhouse. Who wouldn't want to be Nora right now? Recently, she's been involved with MyLifetime.com. Her books have been developed into the Nora Roberts 2009 Collection...It's basically four of her books made for television. I've seen past adaptations of Blue Smoke, Angel Falls, Carolina Moon and Montana Sky, and although they were not the best adaptations, they were charming--and I watched them all while stuffing my face with buttered popcorn and chasing them down with hard liquor.

This time around, I was interested in seeing if the production value went up. After watching Jane Porter's FLIRTING WITH FORTY, I was hoping that they would be vastly improved. To my surprise, they were. These book adaptations include: Northern Lights, Midnight Bayou, High Noon, and Tribute. Only 2 of the four have already shown. These movies are supposed to run 4 Saturdays in a row and I've caught the first two on the www.mylifetime.com website since I don't have cable. I'll be honest, I was extremely engaged in Midnight Bayou. I thought it was very well scripted and rounded off with a good cast. The whole supernatural/reincarnation element was a plus. Sure, I've gotten sucked in by Nora...and although I still haven't read more than a handful of her books...I'm very pleased. It makes me aspire to be like her.

It also got me thinking that if I could adapt my books to tv, which one would I choose? Honestly, all of them. When I write romance, and I've said this before, it's a moving picture and the story is simply unfolding like a movie. I can really see these book live. Maybe someday it'll happen....Needless to say, I'm a bit inspired and now I shall go back to writing.....

Watch out, Nora...here I come! :)

I brought 60+ boxes on my move and the past few days I've been shredding. I've filled up 2 whole trash bags so far and still have a few more boxes to go through. As far as clothes, I have enough to fill a department store. I am trying to clear the living room as fast as I can so when we get the furniture, it will actually look like a nice place. I think packing was less painful than the unpacking. Sigh.

I have watched 5 movies so far and 2 being Nora Roberts book adaptations: Montana Sky and Angels Fall -- they were decent films but if you ask me, Lifetime did a wonderful job with Jane Porter's Flirting with Forty. Just sayin'

I hear Ms. Roberts opened a B&B called Inn Boonsboro. Call me a dork but I kinda want to go check it out and her little bookstore, Turn the Page Bookstore Cafe. I'm not one of those fanatical fans of NR, but I do enjoy a few of her books. The headhopping kills me but her heroines are always so tough, smart, and amazing. She has a way with characters that are engaging. I loved her three sister's trilogy and the book The Three Fates. Actually, that was the first book I ever read of hers three years ago. I am guilty to say I haven't read that many, but I respect her and she's really rather approachable in person. Of course, who wouldn't want to be NR. She's on top in the romance publishing world and you can only respect and be in awe of her. So of course, when I heard they are making 4 more adaptations of her books, I am curious to see how they'll turn out.

After all, I plan on having movies made from my books someday...it will happen! :)

Now I'm inspired again. Will have to write today....you should do it too!

Kristen had a really good point on her blog. The cover does not do the actor who plays Edward, Robert Pattinson, justice. If you see his other promotional pictures or movie trailers, he looks a heck of a lot better! Although the makeup artist and hairstylist screwed up big time on this at EW, I figure I'm going to overlook this bit. I am just as excited to watch this...at least the movies that are being releases are becoming more interesting: The Dark Knight, Mamma Mia!, Twilight, Step Brothers, The Mummy, Swing Vote....there is hope yet for the movies...

Also...

Thanks to my buddy R.G. Alexander for showing me this heartwarming YouTube video. It made me kind of teary-eyed! Something I would totally do to raise money for charity!

I don't know why but I really want to see this movie! Who can resist Jet Li and Jackie Chan? They're adorable! I grew up on their movies as a child. before they made a name for themselves in American cinemas. It's interesting that they have become a household name and I think deservedly so. Humor is the best medicine and these days, I NEED IT!

I'm so close to finishing my manuscript that I can taste it. Sigh. When I do, I'm treating myself for dinner and a movie! I would say 'spa' but that will be when I get my NY contract :)

How can I function sleeping at 4:00 AM almost every night and waking up soooo very early? I don't know, but there is this strength inside of me that tells me to keep going, that it will all be worth it soon.

I hope so because sometimes it hard to believe. Especially when the tunnel I'm traveling through seems to show no sign of the light at the end....but I keep going.