Fantasy Anthology Seeking Stories

Today I'd like to mention a story anthology that is seeking submissions.  It's being put together by Robert MacAnthony, a contributor to The Temporal Element.  While this project is not a Martinus Publishing anthology, he asked that I pass the word along, and I wish him the best of luck with it.  It's also a good opportunity for writers who would like to get more exposure and collect a few dollars in the process.

Shadows of a Fading World

-A Sword & Sorcery Anthology-

Shadows of a Fading World  is a classic sword-and-sorcery style fantasy e-Book anthology in the dying earth subgenre. Submissions should pay homage to the roots of the genre - adventure, romance, dark sorceries, mysterious locales, and the grit and grime of common life all have a role to play.

The "dying earth" aspect of the stories form a commonality for the anthology. This element should be present in all submissions. Authors may make this an integral part of the story, or simply use it to provide background and flavor.

We are looking for original stories, set in a world of the author's own creation. Stories should invoke visions of the classic tales of Robert E. Howard, Fritz Leiber, Jack Vance, Michael Moorcock, and others., but authors should not feel bound by any particular style.

For more information, and to submit your story, visit the publisher's website here.

Of course, Martinus Publishing anthologies are also open at this time, and two more will be opening in December (Visit Martinus Publishing's Submissions Page for details).  Get your stories ready and submitted!

Excalibur (1981) -Review

Last week, I had the chance to watch "Excalibur" for the first time. It was a decent movie, though nothing particularly special. It may have been a great film in its day, but after 30 years it could probably benefit from an updated remake. The special effects were kind of weak, and the dialog wasn't all it could be.

The story does a decent job of following the King Arthur legend, and the acting is quite good, though there are times it seems a bit stilted. Most of the actors fit their parts pretty well, though "Merlin" looked a bit too young, in my opinion. Nichol Williamson did a decent job of portraying him as a creepy manipulative wizard with good intentions at heart, but they could have at least made his hair white.

There are also a few interesting appearances from actors "before they were famous." Most notably, we see Patrick Stewart (Captain Picard of Star Trek, The Next Generation), and Liam Neeson, both in supporting roles.

I'd say this is my second favorite movie based on the Arthur legend. First prize has to go to the more recent King Arthur,with Clive Owen in the lead role (though that is a totally different story, so it's a lot like comparing a Model-T to a 1965 Mustang). That one gets top marks for story, acting, and special effects.  I feel Excalibur's age has diminished its effectiveness, and thus it can't stand up to modern masterpieces.

Overall, I'll give Excalibur 3 stars. It's worth watching, but nothing really special.