Pages

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Looking For A Random Winner -- Michelle Monkou


And the winner of the $25 Macy's Gift Card is....Raven99. Thank you everyone for participating. Until next time. -- Michelle
I was having a conversation with a few of my writer friends today about recently viewed movies that drew me in.

One such movie is Twilight. I'm 42 years old and consider myself far away from my teen crushes and fantasies. Yet, despite my brother's thumbs down on the movie, I came away (with my 14 yr old daughter) with a smile on my face and a warm coziness in my heart. I'm now reading the book.


My reaction motivated to think about why I was moved so much. When I think about what other movies caused similar reactions, I can name a few: Dirty Dancing, Bend It Like Beckham, Across The Universe. There has to be more than a simple declaration that they are romance stories for young people that make them addictive.
I think there are several themes/fantasies that capture our imagination -- it's the awkwardness of not fitting in, struggling for independence, dealing with the first blush of romantic feelings, and heroes that will risk everything to be with that person who the world (but not the viewers) thinks is unsuitable.

Think about what are a few fantasies in young adult or adult stories that strike the right chord in your heart. What makes you feel cozy and warm?

By tomorrow evening (PST), I'll pick from the comments one person to receive $25 Macy's Gift Card for you to enjoy this Holiday season.

Michelle Monkou

P.S. BTW, here's my March cover. I love it!




18 comments:

Lexi said...

Beautiful cover, Michelle!

Margay Leah Justice said...

Michelle, I think you said it all. And I think Twilight has it all - the romance, the angst. I think it's popularity has a lot to do with reminding us all of situations where we felt just like Bella. I can't remember any other book that has done this for me in recent years.

Unknown said...

I love the cover Michelle

I haven't seen Twilight or read the book, but I was always a big fan of Dirty Dancing and Pretty Women. These movies always did something for me.

Unknown said...

My husband makes fun of me because I watch the romantic teeny bop movies. My favorite by faris Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 1 and 2. I love these movies and yes they make me feel good.

Avi J said...

This year my favourite movie was lron man. l loved all the comic book movies. Great cover btw.

Gina said...

Quantum of solace is my fav movie. l always like action movies

Dina said...

I love to watch movies with Amanda Bynes in them. They are more for the younger crowd, but she makes the movies fun for all I think.

Michele L. said...

Hi Michele,

I have not seen Twilight but from all the positive comments and good reviews, I definitely want to see it! I love romance movies in particular because of the happy endings. Absolutely love Pretty Woman. Julia Roberts is so precious in that movie! All innocence that she sparkles! Have you ever seen the movie WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING with Sandra Bullock? That is a wonderfully, romantic movie that is funny and touching.
Yep, the "Feel good" movies are my favorites!

What a lovely cover!Congratulations on your book!

Michele L.

kim h said...

love a good comedy or love strory just love the the notebook and ps i love u

Laurie G said...

Overcoming the odds and finding someone to share your time and your love with.
One of my favorite movies is the musical RENT. Roger & MiMi's relationship has so much going against it. But even struggling with the reality of Aids, they find & share a beautiful love story with the support of a lot of friends.

CrystalGB said...

Hi Michelle. Great cover. I love Dirty Dancing. It is one of my favorite movies.

Jane said...

I haven't read any of Stephanie Meyer's books or seen Twilight. I love fairy tales, so I can watch the Disney adaptations over and over again. Beauty and the Beast and Sleeping Beauty are my two favorites. Nothing beats a HEA.

traveler said...

Striking cover!
When I watch a romantic movie it takes me away and I feel so moved by the experience. Cinema Paradiso has this magical quality.

ruth said...

A romance that I remember and is memorable is Brief Encounter. Hits me hard and is heartwrenching but beautiful.

ellie said...

Since I am feeling very nostalgic at this point in my life I think of An Affair To Remember fondly. touching and amazing.

anne said...

Great cover. Great post which resounded with me. I am presently enjoying a real oldie which I love, Casablanca. Plenty to tug at the heartstrings.

Lori Ann said...

The Notebook and Dirty Dancing are two movies with beautiful love stories. Some other movies that I remember thinking dealt with young love really well are Pretty in Pink, 10 Things I Hate About You, and A Walk To Remember.

Michelle Monkou said...

Thanks for the insightful comments and movie recommends. I see that I must make a dash to Best Buy and add to my massive DVD collection.