tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57537924581046497822024-03-19T04:29:04.203-05:00Comicbook/Sci-Fi KingdomA place that's all about comic-books, the classic pulp novels of the 1930's, science-fiction and all related topics.comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.comBlogger266125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-67343758517396595682018-04-30T22:57:00.002-05:002018-04-30T22:57:32.065-05:00Avengers: Infinity War - The Big One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"Today we don't fight for one life...we fight for ALL of them."</i> - T'Challa.</div>
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Over the course of the weekend, I have taken in two showings of <i>Avengers: Infinity War</i>. Both times I saw it with my girlfriend, and close friends. And both times electrified my imagination and jump-started my inner being with excitement. A fair warning to all who see it. If you are someone who loves comics AND the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this film will elicit a wide range of emotions from you. Chief among them is sadness and anger, for reasons that will become extremely clear extremely fast.<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0751577/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Anthony</span></a> and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0751648/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Joe Russo</span></a> have outdone themselves this time. Already having made a name for themselves with Captain America: Winter Soldier and Captain America: Civil War, this blows everything out of the water. To undertake a project of this magnitude, with a cast this large, and a story that has everything within the MCU hinging on it, needs to be handled with skill and dedication. Together, these brothers have done all they clearly set out to do with the movie and more.<br />
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Infinity War is now one of the largest cast superhero movies of all time. Every single member of that cast managed to get a degree of screen time, big and small. In the grand scheme of things, that is what matters. Everyone who has a favorite hero or heroes within the franchise, gets to see characters they appreciate be together with their fellow heroes in one of the biggest fights in all cinematic herodom.<br />
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From <a href="https://twitter.com/robertdowneyjr" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Robert Downey Jr.</span></a> to <a href="https://twitter.com/CobieSmulders" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Cobie Smulders</span></a>, all play their parts that have become synonymous with their names to a T. The whole movie is basically a giant smorgasboard/who's who in MCU. And while there are some notable absences (for reasons that are explained away in-dialogue), such gaps are filled with the overflow of heroes and yes even villains on camera.<br />
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Speaking of villains, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/joshbrolin/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Josh Brolin</span></a> truly stood and delivered as Thanos. To play the Mad Titan, one of the most formidable threats in all of Marvel Comics, is to take up a role with a complex background behind it. Admittedly, his purpose for wielding the Infinity Stones it different in the movie as opposed to the source material, but the mission still has the same driven energy behind it. What is most surprising is how far he is willing to go to acquire all 6 of the Infinity Stones. The quest to possess one of the stones will yield a very unexpected cameo from a MCU character. In order to see who, those who are waiting until the fervor dies down, make a point to see the movie this week or weekend.<br />
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On the subject of special effects, this is an area where the MCU has always excelled. Going all the way to 2008 with <i>Iron Man</i>, to the present with <i>Infinity War</i>, each installment has yielded more and more gratifying on-camera wizardry. Over the course of a decade, fans and audiences have seen Norse gods fly and throw lightening, super-soldiers become legends, and living trees and talking racoons save the galaxy multiple times over. And all of that is thanks to the <a href="https://www.ilm.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Industrial Light & Magic</span></a>, <a href="https://www.framestore.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Framestore</span></a>, <a href="https://www.methodstudios.com/en/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Method Studios</span></a>, <a href="https://www.wetafx.co.nz/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Weta Digital</span></a> plus 7 other companies. The end result speaks for itself, a symphony in light, sound and color guaranteed to fill the imagination with bright noises and flashing wonders.<br />
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Music wise, there is one mind-numbing score composed by legend <a href="http://www.alansilvestri.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Alan Silvestri</span></a>. There is even a throw-back piece of music for the Guardians of the Galaxy to jam out to. There will be no spoilers as to where it shows up, only what the song is. 1976 hit 'Rubberband Man' by <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Spinners_(American_R%26B_group)" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Spinners</span></a>. Here's a little something to jam out to in case seeing the movie isn't on the immediate horizon.<br />
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Another benchmark for Marvel/Disney's latest spectacular, is how booming it is doing at the box office. In the short amount of time it has been out, the film has broken all records and zoomed to the top of the collective charts. According to the Los Angeles Times yesterday, domestically (not adjusted for inflation), it topped out for opening weekend at $250 million, out-performing 2015's <i>Star Wars: The Force Awakens</i> (which earned $247.9 million before inflation). Worldwide it has blown the door of the barn, with a whopping $630 million intake so far globally, not counting the Chinese market (that debut isn't until May 11).<br />
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10 years. This has been 10 years in the making. From the moment Thanos appeared at the end of 2012's <i>The Avengers</i>, Marvel fans and movie-lovers of all ages have known this was where things would end up. Earth's Mightiest Heroes, the Sorcerer Supreme, a Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, plus the Guardians of the Galaxy and the might of Wakanda, all banded together to take on the single most dangerous threat to all existence. Now, with tears fresh and hearts ripped asunder by the outcome, the wait begins for the next installment. 2019 seems so far away now. Thankfully, there are other new outings from Marvel (and studios like Fox and Sony) to help make the wait go by faster. And if there is a hankering for some 'classic' MCU, all the previous movies from before.<br />
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Avengers: Infinity War receives a well-deserved 5 out of 5 stars. Not just on casting and special effects and music alone, but for its story, and for serving up an amazing almost 3 hours of plot-intense, slam-bang style magic that Marvel has become well known for.<br />
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-37087728678239678712018-01-07T21:45:00.001-06:002018-01-07T21:45:22.087-06:00The Greatest Showman - Musical Circus Magic Come Alive <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"The noblest art is that of making others happy."</i> - P.T. Barnum. </div>
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Yesterday was such a thrilling day. Alongside my girlfriend and a dear friend of ours, we took in Hugh Jackman's latest musical spectacular. It was glorious. Songs that are catchy and memorable and engaging, a story that can resonate with people everywhere and a cast that binds it all together. This is <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1485796/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Greatest Showman</span></a>, and it's a wild ride that shouldn't be missed.<br />
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Directed by newcomer <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1243905/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Michael Gracey</span></a>, for his first foray into the world of big movies, its a giant step. Not only is he working with Hugh Jackman, Zac Effron, Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Keala Settle, but this project is big because it's a movie musical. However, Michael has done a great job with Hugh on this and it is making big at the box offices currently.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/realhughjackman" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Hugh Jackman</span></a> is truly a great performer. Both on camera and on stage, his range is astounding. Taking on the role of P.T. Barnum, the man who gave America and the world 'The Greatest Show On Earth' is a role worthy of a talent like Mr. Jackman. There is such an electricity, such a fire and passion when he opens his mouth to sing or moves his feet to dance. Truly, Hugh is the very embodiment of 'the greatest showman'.<br />
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Standing by his side are <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0931329/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Michelle Williams</span></a> (Charity Barnum), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm8874655/?ref_=tt_cl_t6" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Austyn Johnson</span></a> (Caroline Barnum) and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm7372981/?ref_=tt_cl_t7" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Cameron Seely</span></a> (Helen Barnum). These three are Barnum's great joy, the reason for going into show business. And it takes the love of his family to help pull him back down from the high clouds (along with other things) and remind him why he started the circus in the first place. </div>
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Now for a musical of this scale and caliber, an all-star cast is called for. Audiences will be overjoyed to see such talented and famous faces on camera alongside Jackman. </div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/zacefron" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Zac Efron</span></a>, talented, funny, good-looking. He is a quint-essential Hollywood triple threat. Cutting his teeth first on <i>High School Musical</i> before doing other work, having him back in a musical movie is such a joy. The songs he shares with Jackman and the rest of the cast are pulse-pounding, catchy and excellent. His character Philip Carlyle, like many others, is an original creation. In this case Philip is a composite, based in part on P.T. Barnum's co-founder James A. Bailey. </div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/zendaya/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Zendaya</span></a>, she is a star that is going to keep on rising. As with Efron, her's is a character created for the story. As trapeze artist Anne Wheeler, joining up with Barnum's circus allows her and her brother W.D. (<a href="https://twitter.com/yahya" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Yahya Abdul-Mateen II</span></a>) the chance to use their gifts and attempt to break away from all the racism and stigmatism of the times. Along the way, she and Philip (Efron) find themselves drawn towards one another. Under magic of the big top, they find joy and love in one another. </div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/kealasettle" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Keala Settle</span></a> takes center stage as the troupe's bearded lady Lettie Lutz. A star on the Broadway stage, there is such an easy transition for her onto the big screen. She gets to sing a big, show-stopping number in the middle of the movie, one that describes part of the message of the production and also delivers a real pulse-pounder to audiences. </div>
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<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0272581/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Rebecca Ferguson</span></a> is European singing sensation Jenny Lind. Lind is one of the true historic figures of this movie, who was brought to America by Barnum as part of a national tour during his years as head of the circus. Like Keala, she too gets to sing her heart out with a moving song that adds its part to the story. </div>
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Additional circus cast members include <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm7976885/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t9" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sam Humphrey</span></a> as Charles Stratton (General Tom Thumb), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm9482674/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t16" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Yusaku Komori</span></a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm9482675/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t17" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Danial Son</span></a> as conjoined twins Chang and Eng, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5729373/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t40" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Luciano Acuna Jr.</span></a> as the Dog Boy, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/natashaliubordizzo/?hl=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Natasha Liu Bordizzo</span></a> as knife expert Deng Yan, and a whole host of others. A final cast member of historic note is <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0817027/?ref_=ttfc_fc_cl_t18" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Paul Sparks</span></a> as theater critic James Bennett, whose original reviews of Barnum's shows are reprinted for the movie. </div>
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Two things that help make this such a standout movie musical are its songs and an interesting fact. The interesting fact is that this is Hugh Jackman's passion project and it took over 7 and 1/2 years of development. This is because studios were wary of bankrolling an original movie musical. So far it has surpassed expectations and has more then made back its budget at the box office. </div>
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Song wise, this entire movie is chock full of upbeat and fantastic numbers. With lyrics written by the team of <a href="http://pasekandpaul.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Pasek and Paul</span></a> (La La Land), this means that musical lovers are in for lyrical treats. Two songs in particular are "This Is Me", which was awarded 2018's Golden Globe for 'Best Original Song' and "From Now On". </div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLFEvHWD_NE" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">This Is Me</span></a> is something of the anthem of the entire movie. It is powerful and passionate. Sung by Keala Settle and the cast of the circus, its bold. Settle and her fellow performers are still shunned by the general public for being different, for looking strange. So what do they do? They sing about how they aren't going to be beaten down and how there is a place for them in the world. </div>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PluaPvhkIMU" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">From Now On</span></a> is equally as powerful because its an epiphany moment for Barnum's character. After almost losing everything, he remembers why he went into show business to begin with, for his family, both of them (wife/daughters and his circus family). He sings of getting back to the way things were, being with people who are important to him and love him for just being himself, not the gilded bird that society demanded. </div>
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In many ways, while this sets out to tell a loose story of P.T. Barnum and the founding of the Barnum and Bailey Circus, it serves another purpose. It gives audiences a message of not being afraid to be yourself, of stepping out of the shadows and into the light. This is something that movie goers of all ages can latch onto amidst all the songs and fast-paced dancing. </div>
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Movie musicals are a genre that is not what it once was in Hollywood. Gone are the days of Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire. In its place are productions like this one. Big, loud, well-scripted, well-casted affairs that command just as much power as their forebears. The Greatest Showman set out to be the best it could be and to give people something magical, just like P.T. Barnum set out years ago when he first started his legendary circus. This cinematic musical wonderment receives a well-deserved 4 out of 4 stars. It is not something to be missed out on by people and almost certainly going to keep enshrining itself in the hearts and minds of generations of fans as they see it come alive. </div>
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-58302692879886691202017-12-23T14:59:00.000-06:002017-12-23T14:59:03.167-06:00Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' - A Disney Classic<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"Tale as old as time. Song as old as rhyme. Beauty and the Beast."</i> - Mrs. Potts.</div>
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This week is a very special and important week. Not just because it is the week before Christmas, but because it is also my girlfriends birthday week. And so in honor of her special day, I chose to write a piece on one of her all-time favorite animated films.<br />
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The 1990's was part of what was known as the Disney Renaissance. Labeled thus because of the vast creative output of films, it galvanized a renewed public interest in The Walt Disney Company as a whole. One of its most celebrated and successful animated features is the 1991 hit <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>.<br />
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Adapted from the 17th century French fairy tale, this is the story of a young woman named Belle, who feels like an outsider in her provincial country town where she is the only one who has a passion for books and knowledge. She finds herself drawn into an adventure full of wonder and romance when she selflessly takes her father's place in the castle of the Beast. During this time she not only makes new friends but also falls in love with Beast and finds in him a kindred spirit and a happy ending.<br />
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Every great animated movie always has several elements that help make it be the success that it is. Those parts are the production, the voice cast, and in the case of Disney, the music.<br />
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To detail every single aspect of the production of this animated masterpiece would take quite a while. So for the enjoyment of all, here is something special. The 'behind the scenes' story of Disney's <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>.<br />
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Behind every great animated character is a voice. For Disney's 30th full-length feature, a wide and wonderfully varied array of voice actors/actress's was cast. </div>
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For the leading role of Belle, Disney found their voice in <a href="http://www.paigeohara.net/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Paige O'Hara</span></a>. She brought to the role a strength that has flowed over into both the Broadway show and the recent live-film version starring Emma Watson. Not only did Paige provide Belle with a sense of empowerment and individuality, but she also gave the character's songs a resounding melody that makes them some of the most-beloved numbers in the catalogue of classic Disney songs. </div>
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In the part of the Beast, <a href="http://www.robbybensonofficial.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Robby Benson</span></a> was the voice for both dialogue and songs. There is a lot of anger in his performance, all of it manifested from inside the Beast and channeled outward at the world and everyone in it. As the story progress's, he changes the tones from being pure gruff to having a warm and tender edge. And like Paige, his singing is pure magic, the sort one never tires of listening to. </div>
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What helps make this story so stand-out isn't just the leading voices, but the support as well. Four of the most memorable voices are those of the Beasts key servants. </div>
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Lumière and Cogsworth, what a pair those two make. Voiced by the talented duo of <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001583/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jerry Orbach</span></a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001773/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">David Ogden Stiers</span></a>, these two help propel Belle and Beast's relationship along. They also have a lot of great back and forth banter that adds humor to the story, not to mention their playing off one another makes their character's all the more loveable. </div>
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Another pair of beloved members of the castle staff are Mrs. Potts and her son Chip. Mrs. Potts was given a stern but loving English voice by veteran actress <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001450/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Angela Lansbury</span></a>, while Chip's precocious youth was sparked by<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.mrbradleypierce.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Bradley Pierce</span></a></span>. Together they are an adorable mother/son pairing, not to mention Angela's stirring performance of one of the movie's key songs. </div>
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On a whole, Beauty and the Beast has songs galore that are just dynamite. Both the animated, Broadway and now live movie soundtracks are universally loved. All due deference must be given to the animated film for the precedent it set years ago. Especially with three songs in particular. </div>
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'Be Our Guest' is in many ways the big song and dance number. It has an upbeat and fast-paced tune, fantastic singing from Jerry Orbach and the cast, not to mention its catchy and memorable lyrics. </div>
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'Something There' is a sweet number. It speaks of the growing attraction between Belle and the Beast. Where there was once fear and misunderstanding, there is common ground, common interests, the beginnings of love. This is a song that speaks of the blossoming romance that is in store for the pair. </div>
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The third and perhaps best song, is not just appealing on an auditory level, but a visual one as well. Sung by Angela Lansbury, this is a piece that has all the classic elements of a big romantic song. It speaks of the now there love between the protagonists, and how it started small and grew into something magical. Plus, it was the number that had a full cinematic treatment. Utilizing Pixar's CAPS (Computer Animation Production System), the animated figures of Belle and Beast were superimposed onto the computer generated ballroom which allowed for 'cameras' to dolly around them in 3D space. This provided a beautiful spectacle for audiences that capture the full force of this love story in a single moment. </div>
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The Walt Disney Company and their movies are some of the most universally known and loved. Since <i>Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs</i> was released in 1937, it has been a non-stop ride of magic, songs and fantastic stories. Beauty and the Beast is in many ways one of the crown jewels because of how powerful, memorable and wonderful it is. </div>
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This is why it gave me great pleasure to write about this for my girlfriend, because I know how much she loves this movie and how much it means to her. </div>
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So the next time there is nothing to watch on TV or online, punch up a copy of Beauty and the Beast, sit back and relax as you are made the guests of a story that is romance given animated form. </div>
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-16121846164462268022017-12-18T23:30:00.000-06:002018-01-07T17:54:17.457-06:00The Disaster Artist - The Best Worst Film Ever<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"You're really gonna make this thing?"</i> - Greg Sestero<br />
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<i>"No, Greg. We are going to do it. Together."</i> - Tommy Wiseau</div>
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Tonight, with my girlfriend and a close friends of ours, a hilarious movie. It tells the story of two friends, and their dream to make a movie together. What follows is them producing a film so horrible, it has become famous because of how bad it is. I am speaking of course about <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt3521126/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Disaster Artist</span></a></i>.<br />
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Directed, produced and starring <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JamesFranco" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">James Franco</span></a> as Tommy Wiseau, Franco does a hilarious and disturbing job bringing Tommy to life on screen. Looking at clips from Wiseau's film The Room (part of the story of Disaster Artist), it is really quite frightening to see how strongly he emulates the character traits of Wiseau on camera. There are times one forgets that it is James Franco on camera.<br />
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Playing Tommy's friend and co-star Greg Sestero is<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DaveFranco85" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Dave Franco</span></a></span>. Greg's character is the straight man of the story. Like Tommy he wants to be a star and make movies. But where Tommy keeps trying to do all sorts of outrageous stuff on set (not knowing how story works or how movie-making happens), Greg is there to try and ground things. Seeing these two brothers working together and feeding off one another's energy is so much fun. They are their best co-stars on camera and it shows through their interactions and playing off one another.<br />
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Overall the entire cast does a fabulous job. <a href="https://twitter.com/Sethrogen" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Seth Rogen</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0310966/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ari Graynor</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1242688/" target="_blank"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Josh Hutcherson</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1555340/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Alison Brie </span></a>etc. they all help contribute to the story and bring this crazy tale to life. There are even surprise cameo's from other famous faces, so keep those eyes open for them.<br />
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Something that made <i>The Disaster Artist</i> such a funny and refreshing piece was that IT'S ALL TRUE. This is based on a story of a movie that was actually made, and is so terrible it has been hailed as "Citizen Kane of bad movies". Because of its historical grounding, one would imagine that such a production means a movie about it would be equally as bad. And yet, as I said this is refreshing because there is such honesty and drive in it. Tommy doesn't let anything stand in the way of his vision becoming reality, not negativity, not anger from his cast/crew. He grabs for the stars and hangs on tight.<br />
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If anyone is looking for a movie that is going to bring lots of laughs, this is it. If they are looking for a movie that can inspire them, heck this is that too. Or if they want to see it just because they love James Franco, well then get ready for a whole lot of Franco on camera. Final analysis, a whooping 4 out of 4 stars to this laugh-fest about a movie that may be complete trash, but is still a heck of a story.<br />
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-14843505730094779862017-12-18T23:13:00.000-06:002018-01-07T17:52:08.201-06:00Star Wars: The Last Jedi - A Confusing Plot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"I know only one truth. It's time for the Jedi... to end."</i> - Luke Skywalker.</div>
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Yesterday, for my girlfriends birthday I had the privilege of seeing the latest Star Wars film with her and my family. It was a wonderful and joyous time, getting to celebrate her special day with family. And while <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2527336/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">The Last Jedi</span></a></i> was visually a grand spectacle, in some ways it did things that mucked around with the story and left me wondering "What is going on?".<br />
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Before diving into the things that left me wanting, I do want to touch on some of the positive aspects.<br />
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Firstly, while Director <a href="https://www.instagram.com/riancjohnson/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Rian Johnson</span></a> did do a lot that had me and no doubt other Star Wars scratching their heads, he did do a lot right. In many ways he honored the overall legacy of the <i>Star Wars </i>franchise through its casting, story (to an extent) and of course with utterly amazing visuals.<br />
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This cast was superb. Each time another chapter of <i>Star Wars</i> is released, its cast is always one of the things that helps make the movie great. <a href="https://twitter.com/HamillHimself?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Mark Hamill</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000402/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Carrie Fisher</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5397459/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Daisy Ridley</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/JohnBoyega?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">John Boyega</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1209966/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Oscar Isaac</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3485845/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Adam Driver</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/LauraDern?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Laura Dern</span></a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/lovegwendoline?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Gwendoline Christie</span></a>, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm4511652/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kelly Marie Tran</span></a> etc. everybody did supreme on camera. Some of the best performances came from cast members sharing scenes with other people, whether it was Mark/Daisy, John/Oscar, Carrie/Oscar etc. Old faces returned, newish faces came back and other new people (like Kelly Marie Tran's character Rose Tico), quickly won their way into audiences hearts. Whatever comes next with the sequel's cast, it will be just as great as this and previous films. </div>
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Visually, as with all other Star Wars movies, <i>The Last Jedi</i> hit the nail on the head. While there is a great deal of visual action that take's place in space, there is other material down on various planets to satisfy audience's appetites. One such example is the final battle on the planet of Crait, because as seen in the trailers, there is great shots of speeders skimming along the surface kicking up red dust clouds. While yes it is the final showdown, there's a lot to be seen and said because of the speeders, the First Order's ground forces and a special surprise for fans as well. </div>
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The biggest issue again is with the story itself. While the plot is solid, there are too many loose threads that don't really tie together. For example, its clear from the get-go that Luke will die/pass on in the movie, like Yoda and Anakin and Obi-Wan before him. With Han Solo already dead in <i>The Force Awakens</i>, how can Disney/Lucasfilm have another of its primary characters die, and leave General Leia alive, when Carrie Fisher is no longer with us? It just doesn't make any amount of sense. </div>
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Another plot issue is that of Snoke and Kylo Ren. For those who haven't seen the movie it will become clear what is talked about here. So much about Snoke is unknown aside from his abilities/power with the Force and his clear influence over the First Order. He is clearly meant to be/set up as a sort of second Emperor, but even Emperor Palpatine had a more fleshed out backstory in the prequel trilogy. There are so many questions, like how did Snoke become a power figure? How did he meet/influence Kylo Ren? What is his true ultimate goal for Rey and Ren? None of these get answered or even remotely touched on. </div>
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<i>The Last Jedi</i> was in all honesty, a fun watch. It set out to tell a Star Wars story and it accomplished that. Unfortunately it took a lot of jumps along the way and skipped over things story-wise that make Star Wars movies truly great examples of science-fiction cinema. Therefore, I am awarding <i>The Last Jedi</i> 3 out of 4 stars, mainly for missing the mark on plot. This however should not deter people from seeing this space-opera epic and enjoying themselves. It's Star Wars for gosh sakes, its fun no matter what is liked or disliked about it. So go, enjoy, and may the Force be with you. </div>
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-84397632738015599982017-11-20T23:09:00.000-06:002017-11-20T23:09:21.858-06:00Justice League: DC's Heroes Unite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"People said the Age of Heroes would never come again"</i> - Diana Prince.</div>
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Last night, alongside my girlfriend, my brother and a group of our close friends, all of us sat down to take in what proved to be a superhero cinematic masterpiece. In spite of the poor reception it has received in professional circles, Warner Bros. Pictures latest epic <i>Justice League</i>, far surpassed all expectations.<br />
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Many people who are lifelong DC Comics readers and devoted fans of all their other media will find this movie to be in many cases, exactly what they wanted. Others will not enjoy it as much, and that's okay, these sorts of productions can't please everyone.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbA6jM1lg9M-pOFmHJmmqJTGrdPHq-ulH_-iRRaiJtYkvFKFBPDmpS03vEUZuTG6TPaxyWBrfRobkVyZ1B3BRycCu940j8JvgYhrccNR31-oBU_Hwf79LLDJ9HiVKH3JPhc4mLtZpXSw/s1600/Snyder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbA6jM1lg9M-pOFmHJmmqJTGrdPHq-ulH_-iRRaiJtYkvFKFBPDmpS03vEUZuTG6TPaxyWBrfRobkVyZ1B3BRycCu940j8JvgYhrccNR31-oBU_Hwf79LLDJ9HiVKH3JPhc4mLtZpXSw/s200/Snyder.jpg" width="137" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vazTHEmO_pp7ueu0z4id8mpnKb2paXT8KMdnhxb-qX0dcnPl_3j0A-JUsrqPqOM6zHIGwlK5uYW68AELs2WG5eLOASBqKmMFPUIY0wU975VTUMIEu2c4w3Z3jZi0nKpVT-hHLI9wKNM/s1600/Whedon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1041" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vazTHEmO_pp7ueu0z4id8mpnKb2paXT8KMdnhxb-qX0dcnPl_3j0A-JUsrqPqOM6zHIGwlK5uYW68AELs2WG5eLOASBqKmMFPUIY0wU975VTUMIEu2c4w3Z3jZi0nKpVT-hHLI9wKNM/s200/Whedon.jpg" width="153" /></a></div>
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With two directors attached to it (<a href="https://twitter.com/zacksnyder" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Zach Snyder</span></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/joss" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Joss Whedon</span></a>), what is served up is a movie that is neither serious nor silly, dark nor light. Instead it is a balanced piece, equal parts serious with lots of action and equal parts humorous with excellent dialogue between League members. These two men working to bring this vision to life, instead did something far more.<br />
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This, the first ever live-action Justice League movie, evoked memories of the <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0863622/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Bruce Timm</span></a> cartoons that aired on Cartoon Network during the 2000s. Which is to say, it took itself seriously, but not so much that it didn't forget that not everyone on the team has to be dour all the time. There is room for humor and banter, especially with newcomers playing the roles of Flash, Cyborg and Aquaman.<br />
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Flash (<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3009232/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ezra Miller</span></a>) is a very comedic character, but can be serious when there is need. This fits more or less with how Barry Allen's tenure as the Flash has always been, a man who can bring smiles to people's faces but when the chips are down, he steps up. People get a Barry Allen who is still fresh to the hero game. Aside from stopping small crimes (mostly by pushing people over like in <i>Suicide Squad</i>), this is that stepping up point for Barry. In stepping up, he moves past any doubts or fears he had about himself, and shows what the true mettle of a hero is.<br />
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Speaking of mettle, its time to talk about the metal man himself, Cyborg. Victor Stone (<a href="https://twitter.com/rehsifyar" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ray Fisher</span></a>) is a complex figure. Blessed or cursed with new life and powers that he doesn't fully understand, Victor goes through a very serious crisis of self, of where he fits into the world now and what his purpose is. It takes wise words from Diana/Wonder Woman for him to see that even with being more machine, its not the technology that makes a hero, but the person behind it.<br />
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The final newcomer and member of the League is the Sovereign of the Seven Seas, Aquaman. Arthur Curry (<a href="https://twitter.com/prideofgypsies" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jason Momoa</span></a>) is man of two worlds. For him, its not a struggle about his place, but what he wants to do with himself, being half human and half Atlantean. Like Cyborg and Flash however, he makes the choice to step up and stand alongside the rest of the team and save the world. In doing so, the brash loner attitude fades away, in its place is the warrior fighting with friends for a greater good.<br />
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Every great superhero movie needs a grand villain, a powerful threat to save the day from. Appearing for the first time ever in movies, is Steppenwolf (<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001354/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ciarán Hinds</span></a>). Without giving away any of his role in the plot, here is his basic comic book background. Created by <a href="http://kirbymuseum.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jack Kirby</span></a> and appearing in <i>New Gods #7</i> (1972), Steppenwolf hails from the planet Apokolips. As head of the world's military forces, he is also uncle to its absolute ruler, Darkseid. His purpose on Earth in the film is that is of a mission from his master and nephew, and that's all to be said on that and not give away any spoilers. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even with it being a comic book movie, there is a great theme prevalent throughout the script. Like Diana's quote about the Age of Heroes, this story is about heroes. It takes more then just one man or woman to make a difference in this case, it takes people standing up and coming into the sun. Too long had the world gone without a light to provide hope in dark times. The Justice League coming together provides that light, that beacon. This story does a lot not only in terms of introducing the three newcomers as other charter League teammates, it also is a bigger springboard for DC to introduce the world to its vast and fantastic array of super characters.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Altogether, </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">Justice League</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> set out with a goal. To tell the tale of DC Comics premier team banding together on the big screen. With fabulous return performances from </span><a href="https://twitter.com/benaffleck" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ben Affleck</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/galgadot" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Gal Gadot</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/henrycavill/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Henry Cavill</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, they are truly a sight to behold. There is also a storied and great support cast, with the likes of </span><a href="https://twitter.com/cnconnienielsen" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Connie Nielsen</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (Queen Hippolyta), </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0608012/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Joe Morton</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (Silas Stone), </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0010736/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Amy Adams</span></a> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Lois Lane), </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000460/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jeremy Irons</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> (Alfred Pennyworth), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0799777/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">JK Simmons</span></a> (</span>Commissioner<span style="font-family: inherit;"> Gordon), <a href="https://twitter.com/realamberheard" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Amber Heard</span></a> (Mera), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000178/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Diane Lane</span></a> (Martha Kent) and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001082/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Billy Crudup</span></a> (Henry Allen). </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Not too mention Easter Eggs galore. To comic book fans and hardcore DC lovers, this is a picture chock full of them. It as if every other scene or sequence has a nod to something relating to the comics, the heroes or the DC Universe at large. For a complete (or near complete) list of all the Easter Eggs and references, click here to go to <a href="http://www.denofgeek.com/us/movies/justice-league/268930/justice-league-complete-dc-comics-easter-eggs-and-reference-guide" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Den of Geek</span></a>. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As for the soundtrack, it was...super. With master music meister <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000384/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Danny Elfman</span></a> at the helm, it was never going to fail. Beautiful and powerful orchestrations, the kind of music that made <i>Superman</i> and <i>Batman</i> celebrated DC movies in their time. There are three distinct nods to classic superhero tracks scattered throughout the movie. Keep those ears open and see if they jump out. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If there was ever a time for a movie about heroes bringing hope to come out, its now. Every day the world at large seems like a dark place. Things constantly are on the brink of plunging into chaos at any moment. Even with it being a fictional tale, this was a much needed and welcome film. It not only underscores the classic hero concept, it shows what sort of difference can be made when people make a stand for truth and justice. That's a massive takeaway, especially in a world where superpowers don't exist and figures like Superman or Wonder Woman can't come racing from the sky to right wrongs. <i>Justice League</i> gets a whooping 5 out of 5 stars for plot, cast, strong themes, music and visuals and most of all, for at long last giving nerds and fans everywhere the great DC blockbuster they've always craved. </span></span><br />
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-15262804880094856542017-11-12T23:39:00.003-06:002018-02-16T16:47:49.012-06:00Thor: Ragnarok - The End...And Beginning <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"I choose to run towards my problems, and not away from them. Because that's what heroes do."</i> - Thor.</div>
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Last week I, alongside my girlfriend, brother and a group of our friends, sat down for a real treat. We took in a showing of the latest superhero spectacular from Marvel Studios, <i>Thor: Ragnarok</i>. Third film in the line of Thor movies and the 17th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this was a very different film from its previous counterparts. Not only did it have Thor take up a new character aspects different from his usual demeanor, it was also very heavy on comedy instead of lots of action.<br />
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Directed by <a href="https://twitter.com/taikawaititi" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Taika Waititi</span></a>, this was a very fun movie to watch. Particularly because of the comedy that was more prevalent then in other Marvel films, but also because of its casting and script and special effects. Taika took a story that could have been serious and instead made it one that also elicited laughs from the audience. </div>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/chrishemsworth" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Chris Hemsworth</span></a> is always a delight to watch as Thor. Embodying all the swagger and arrogance of the Thunder God, this time around he also brought out some of the more serious nature of the character. Thor really steps up to the plate in this movie, not just in the sense of saving the world, but also in terms of taking even more responsibility then he had in the past. Faced with insurmountable odds and without his usual method of dealing with a problem (RIP Mjolnir), he uses his mind and his abilities, not just as the Thunder God but also humility and desire to make things right. There is some major character growth throughout the movie for Thor, so that by the end Marvel-lovers see what kind of hero is truly under the hair and power. He is a hero, willing to do whatever it takes to see that things are put right. </div>
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Returning to the character of Bruce Banner after 3 years, <a href="https://twitter.com/markruffalo" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Mark Ruffalo</span></a> did a smashing job. Like putting on an old coat or getting back on a bicycle, he gives people a Bruce Banner who has been locked inside the Hulk's rage and anger for two years. Back in reality, there's a lot of shock over missing so much, and then suddenly being thrust into a conflict that is of catastrophic proportions. Nevertheless, it is all taken in stride and Banner/Hulk is back in the fight again. There's a lot of great improvisation between Ruffalo and Hemsworth, which makes for fantastic back and forth. </div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://twitter.com/tessathompson_x" target="_blank">Tessa Thompson</a></span> nailed it as Valkyrie. One of the great warrior women of Asgard's elite, this is a figure who has been running from her problems all her life. Shame, afraid to face down the evil of that once nearly dominated all life. Face to face with Thor and the possibility of redemption (after some soul searching and goading), she stands and fights again for Asgard and for life. May her character return for future Marvel Cinematic movies, and perhaps even get her own spin-off adventures. There is a lot of great potential, both with Valkyrie within the confines of being in more Marvel teamups, and also having her own superhero film adventures. </div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000949/" target="_blank">Cate Blanchett</a></span> was truly terrifying as Hela. Despite being a one-movie villain, her impact as a nemesis felt even found resounding then that of say Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges). The reasons for who she is (Goddess of Death) and for being the way she is, are more personal and deep then some of the usual superhero movie villains. Elder child of Odin (<a href="https://twitter.com/anthonyhopkins" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Anthony Hopkins</span></a>) and scored by him for being too power-mad, she is locked away for all eternity, released at last by the death of the All-Father. And with that release comes fury, rage and the desire to claim the throne of Asgard for her very own. This makes for a powerful performance with many great scenes and fabulous dialogue. Casting Cate in this role was a great decision, one worthy of an Oscar. </div>
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It's not a Thor movie without <a href="https://www.instagram.com/twhiddleston/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Tom Hiddleston</span></a> as Loki. There wouldn't be any sly villainy or clever witty remarks to toss at Chris without Tom. He experiences some growth as well. While it may not be as soul-wrenching powerful as Thor finally taking up the kingship of Asgard, its still deep. With high stakes at play this time around, the resentment he's always felt towards his brother finally is stripped away in some very choice words and acting between Chris and Tom. While these two brothers may not always get along, Loki may finally see how much Thor always cared for him, even when it seemed like he didn't.<br />
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For a superhero plot about the end of Asgard, there is lots of moments designed to make people laugh. But there is also a lot of seriousness underneath the funny. There's the big overarching element of Hela taking over Asgard and Ragnarok, the end of all things coming. Further inside that, is the story of Thor. Favorite son of Odin, God of Thunder, Prince of Asgard, Avenger. Thor eschewed the responsibilities of the throne for a life of adventure and daring do. Now, he must face up to all the things he pushed aside, and while ruling still means that there is adventure, it also means he has to stop running from the problem of feeling like he could never be the king Odin was.<br />
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That really says a lot for his character, and it can be seen in parallel with figures history. George Washington, after the end of the American Revolution, was ready for a quiet life of being the gentleman farmer. Living out his days with Martha at Mount Vernon. While he may not have wanted to be President, he still rose to the occasion and became the first in a long line of Presidents, and helped set the precedent for a peaceful transition of office. Another example is that of King George IV (rewatch 'The King's Speech' or early episodes of 'The Crown' to remember him). He never even truly wanted the throne of England, but in the end he accepted it. In doing so, he lead his people through some of the darkest days the nation ever saw during WWII.<br />
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The point behind these previous paragraphs, is that history and fiction alike are filled with reluctant leaders. People who do not wish to rule, but ruler-ship is handed to them no matter what. How they handle that responsibility and the duties that come with it, therein lies the true marks of what it takes to be a leader.<br />
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Other things about this movie that were great include the special effects and the additional members of the cast. Every Marvel Cinematic piece has eye-popping visuals that just blow minds and stun people. With Thor going way out to outer space, that means a whole new playing field for graphic designers and visual artists etc. Other members of the cast that did a bang-up job include <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffreygoldbIum?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jeff Goldblum</span></a> (Grandmaster), <a href="https://twitter.com/KarlUrban?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Karl Urban</span></a> (Skurge) and with a fun and great extended cameo, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1212722/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Benedict Cumberbatch</span></a> (Dr. Strange).<br />
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<i>Thor: Ragnarok</i> was many things. It was serious, funny, well cast, well written and very enjoyable to watch. Another stone in the bridge building up to Avengers: Infinity Wars, this not only broadens the scope of things for Marvel more, it also showed what can happen when a superhero movie doesn't try to take itself so seriously, and still can be good. It get's a five out of five stars with the hopes that for any further solo Thor films, they are just as solid as this one.<br />
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-32335344683586299092017-10-13T23:19:00.000-05:002017-10-13T23:19:25.261-05:00Blade Runner 2049: Solving a Long Ago Mystery<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"I have memories, but I can't tell if they're real"</i> - K.</div>
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Earlier this week I had the utter joy of sitting down with my girlfriend and a close friend to take in a highly anticipated movie. It's been 35 years in the making but at long last the dystopian world of Blade Runner returned, and things certainly did not get better in the 30 year time-span of that universe.<br />
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<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0898288/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Denis Villeneuve</span></a> may not be Ridley Scott, but he certainly dug deep into Scott's box of magic that produced the original <i>Blade Runner</i> and out came <i>Blade Runner 2049</i>. He presents many of the familiar trappings of the Los Angeles of the future, but there is a certain stronger grime to it now. The world has become a darker place, and some things are different, while some are the same. A fear and mistrust of Replicants is still present, but he adds in a wider acceptance of them as well. An entirely new plot with added twists and turns puts fuel to the fire that was started decades ago and has been fanned into a fantastic film that will hopefully have a sequel.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/ryangosling" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Ryan Gosling</span></a>, cast as new character K, a Replicant Blade Runner, is painted as a different man then the character of Rick Deckard was. As a Replicant, K knows that people don't like him and trust him, yet he goes about doing his job of 'retiring' his kind. In doing so, he stumbles on a an age old secret that not only produces startling revelations about the world, but also about himself. Fans of Ryan's will love this he's cast in, because it allows them to see a different sort of persona for him to play, one that is serious, and has emotional depth, but it takes time for those emotions to come out from layers of programming.<br />
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<span style="text-align: left;">Seeing </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000148/" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Harrison Ford</span></a><span style="text-align: left;"> back on screen as Deckard was an absolute joy. While Deckard doesn't show up until the third act of the story, his presence and the case from the original plot are felt throughout the bulk of the film. He may be older and grayer, but underneath is still a man who believes in doing the right thing. But he is also haunted, by ghosts of his past, and now one of those ghosts turns up again, carried on wings by K and thrusting Deckard back into a world he long turned his back on. Anyone who has grown up a fan of Harrison Ford will appreciate seeing him put on the 'old coat' of Rick Deckard, especially after it having been a long gap between movies.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Ana de Armas</span><span style="text-align: left;"> takes an interesting part in the movie. She is Joi, K's holographic girlfriend and the only person who cares about him and loves him. While yes she is only a hologram, what makes a person? She is programmed to an extent, but its clear that interactions with K expand her digital consciousness, allowing Joi to grow beyond the original purpose she was designed for. The interactions between her and Gosling are sweet, movie-goers will clearly see the love each of them has for one another.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Jared Leto</span><span style="text-align: left;">, oh what a role he is cast in. Playing corporate head Niander Wallace, he is the man who makes Replicants now, and he also has a sinister agenda at play. The character is a disturbing one, a person with zero empathy for life and willing to do whatever it takes to expand his operation. While mainly a secondary figure to Ryan Gosling and eventually Harrison Ford, Leto has some great scenes with both actors and delivers some chilling and well written dialogue. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6Szg7JJeJwyKEQa2z3ep-OBu-SV2PF7ZCtowwX4ZwVP7gBhGNFMK-m6p3uTwDDq5P_6gR4oOM8u1ohAWxFjev6mdGOK1Dygrhtwjg8FdeK7ExI0FT_BLViPFUoU08V4ZQOKtvhY9X80/s1600/LtJoshi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="540" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6Szg7JJeJwyKEQa2z3ep-OBu-SV2PF7ZCtowwX4ZwVP7gBhGNFMK-m6p3uTwDDq5P_6gR4oOM8u1ohAWxFjev6mdGOK1Dygrhtwjg8FdeK7ExI0FT_BLViPFUoU08V4ZQOKtvhY9X80/s200/LtJoshi.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6JP9iDgUgCzRN8-cBlz7grZzXSjAqyzkiSZW4mfIBHwkjLSisQBNVxmdDKqUfWdrNGSEdO6BoWGwlxT9tlZHIWsEOjlHEB74W4qZQtD3QtZm3FztmTL8KpUftg3GJzpwPaMNj-_lFmU/s1600/Luv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1082" data-original-width="1532" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6JP9iDgUgCzRN8-cBlz7grZzXSjAqyzkiSZW4mfIBHwkjLSisQBNVxmdDKqUfWdrNGSEdO6BoWGwlxT9tlZHIWsEOjlHEB74W4qZQtD3QtZm3FztmTL8KpUftg3GJzpwPaMNj-_lFmU/s200/Luv.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://twitter.com/RealRobinWright?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Robin Wright</span></a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1679778/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sylvia Hoeks</span></a> have strong parts in the story. Robin plays K's superior Lt. Joshi while Sylvia is Luv, Niander Wallace's strong right hand. Both these actress's represent opposite sides of the coin of the future, Joshi is law and order, wanting to preserve peace for humans and Replicants. Luv is a sort of lawless chaos, doing whatever Wallace wants and is not afraid to get creative in the process. And both actress's fill parts laid out in the original movie by M. Emmet Walsh and Joanna Cassidy, law and crime (corporate crime). A lot can be said for these two figures, but that would give away too much plot. To put it finely, the choice of casting them was excellent, and Robin and Sylvia do well on the screen alongside Gosling, Ford, Leto etc.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Dystopian future is always painted as very bleak. A world that ought to be perfect but isn't. All the technological achievements</span><span style="text-align: left;"> and breakthrough's can't fix things that are broken. Confined originally to a dark and overcrowded Los Angeles, <i>Blade Runner 2049</i> breaks beyond that, and goes past the city limits, showing more of the desolation that has come to what was the United States. Denis uses a lot of shadows for his movie, similar to Ridley Scott. There is light, but there is dark too, used primarily to showcase what has happened over the course of 30 years.</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Sequels to science-fiction movies often fall into two categories, good and bad. <i>Blade Runner 2049 </i>definitely falls into the good category. This is a heavy story, one about finding oneself, freedom, a new age. While yes its a dystopian tale, it has glimmers of light underneath, and that light is what is a propellant for characters like K once the ball gets rolling. Despite some of the negative press it has received, I feel that fans of the original <i>Blade Runner </i>will appreciate the loose ends tied up by the sequel, as well as new questions and ideas put forth by the dialogue and story. 5 out of 5 stars for its cast, its scenes and most importantly, for being more then what was expected of a sequel movie 35 years in the making.</span></div>
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-36511461991176768432017-09-28T00:39:00.000-05:002017-09-28T00:39:08.403-05:00Kingsman: The Golden Circle- British meets American Intelligence<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7; color: #333333; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"Manners... maketh... man. Let me translate that for you."</i> - Whiskey.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Several days ago alongside my girlfriend and brother, we took in a late evening show of the latest action spy film from 20th Century Fox, <i>Kingsman: The Golden Circle</i>. </span><br />
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The movie was enjoyable enough, it had many of the same earmarks of the first movie, action, spy drama, and many returning characters in addition to new ones. There was sadly a lot of problems with it too, such as the newer characters not getting much in the way of backstory, plus a plot that felt a lot more loose in some respects.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ZL8VGERz6YZ0jri-AO3slwMHxZKm3ytGZLGQ6CgFPD22f1cGM5ieyeNNvG2Ws2sdfxvVD4fbXXdc7z3_eKY9AlgT6BX8G9rPve7gAZFWEuG-dL0Z3VhoRgsQGn6iBR-CruD4AISaC8Q/s1600/Matthew+Vaughn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3ZL8VGERz6YZ0jri-AO3slwMHxZKm3ytGZLGQ6CgFPD22f1cGM5ieyeNNvG2Ws2sdfxvVD4fbXXdc7z3_eKY9AlgT6BX8G9rPve7gAZFWEuG-dL0Z3VhoRgsQGn6iBR-CruD4AISaC8Q/s320/Matthew+Vaughn.jpg" width="250" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0891216/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Matthew Vaughn</span></a> does a decent enough job as director. His forays into other comic book related properties include <i>Kick-Ass</i>, <i>Kingsman</i> and <i>X-Men: First Class</i>. However this time around his directing takes a different spin, going more in favor of a Michael Bay style. Meaning that while there is a story, it is pushed aside in favor of stylized action sequences that while nice to look at, don't do much in the way of advancing things. It doesn't help that this is a sequel movie based off a comic book series that for the longest time, didn't have a follow up until recent months.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/taronegerton" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Taron Egerton's</span></a> return as Eggsy is very welcome however. His character has a lot of strong growth throughout the movie, both in his role as spy and on a personal level (no spoilers here). He is also sporting that spiffy orange tuxedo seen in trailers and on posters, plus a lot of new Kingsman gadgets, as well as some toys from the organization's American cousins, the Statesmen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvI-YDBCllj9KO8W6GZ67GCIepuDXy89GCjUoGZDMe1IL7OHhcM5iRqZ97GJGjb6ZZQbAkF9o1rhohQYNxf_4qgk7wGp5CdlK9yOKWVofqLDSKP0MgVrf2EdWYeNf015ulf0FeXsdy_M/s1600/Statesmen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqvI-YDBCllj9KO8W6GZ67GCIepuDXy89GCjUoGZDMe1IL7OHhcM5iRqZ97GJGjb6ZZQbAkF9o1rhohQYNxf_4qgk7wGp5CdlK9yOKWVofqLDSKP0MgVrf2EdWYeNf015ulf0FeXsdy_M/s320/Statesmen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Statesmen, an independent American spy group that all have a heavy cowboy/rancher motif going, not to mention using six-gun, lassos, whips etc. as their main field weapons. It almost feels like Vaughn took elements from old John Wayne movies and glued them together with James Bond elements, with this being the end result. That's not to say that the group isn't bad. <a href="https://twitter.com/TheJeffBridges?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jeff Bridges</span></a> as the head of the team is a fun choice, plus <a href="https://twitter.com/halleberry?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Halle Berry</span></a> as the American version of Mark Strong's character Merlin. <a href="https://twitter.com/channingtatum?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Channing Tatum</span></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/PedroPascal1?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Pedro Pascal</span></a> are the two main field agents, and while both of them have cool outfits and awesome fighting styles, they don't really have anything in the way of backstories. None of the group do, which is one of the biggest things that threw me off and causes the movie to fall short of expectations.<br />
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On the other hand, both <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000147/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Colin Firth </span></a>and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0835016/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Mark Strong</span></a> returning to their roles of Harry and Merlin did exceptional. They are already top notch actors so coming back to roles that already have given them more acclaim, is somewhat like getting back on a bicycle, but adding new shocks to change things up. In this case the shocks being more character development for each of them, making their roles stronger.<br />
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For the villain, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000194/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Julianne Moore</span></a> steps into the ring as Poppy Adams, an international drug crime-lord looking to make a big splashy reveal to the world. Not unlike Samuel L. Jackson's performance of Richmond Valentine, Poppy is very thematic foe, on par with James Bond rogues of old. Her mission, a twisted agenda that includes what can be likened to a form of global control (though not in the way one would expect).<br />
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Old faces returning and new faces coming in make this a fun movie. And the fighting/spy action is great to watch. But there is still that issue of the Statesmen characters not having a very strong background or backstory, they are just the American equivalent of Kingsmen. Another big issue is that <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5824400/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Sophie Cookson's</span></a> role of Roxy Morton/Lancelot is really given next to nothing this time around. There is a lot of potential for her character and its utterly wasted. It's almost as if Matthew Vaughn cared so little for what her performance could bring to the movie, he chose to sideline her almost immediately.<br />
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Despite the action and excitement of there being a sequel, Kingsman: The Golden Circle doesn't totally come up to the line on the same level as its predecessor. It's a fine and dandy piece of work to be sure, but there's so much more that could have been done with it. I still encourage everyone to see it, but my rating for this one is going to have to be 3 stars out of 5 for the various detraction's I mentioned earlier. </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-51475231157045127282017-09-25T22:19:00.000-05:002017-09-28T18:35:42.788-05:00It Chapter 1: Pennywise Gets Inside Your Heads<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">"Derry is not like any town I've been in before. People die or disappear, six times the national average. And that's just grown ups. Kids are worse. Way, way worse."</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> - Ben Hanscom. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Last week I and my girlfriend and some of our friends, took in a late showing of the latest Stephen King film adaptation, </span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">It: Chapter 1</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">. This is the beginning of what is now a re-surged interest in making movies out of Stephen King's books, only now also upping the intensity and violence and drama. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Directed by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/andy_muschietti/?hl=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Andy Muschietti</span></a>, this movie is in many ways a lot of what was already seen back in the 1990s when Tim Curry played the role of Pennywise, only ten times more of everything that was seen decades ago. Andy seems to really understand that in the modern market of horror movies and films that sell scary and violence, that for an undertaking such as this there needs to be a balance of plot/character development alongside the shock value. He achieves this in two ways, the first being a highly faithful to the source material script, and a cast that really makes these characters come to life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Stephen King's books are well known the world over. Movies like made about them like </span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">The Shining</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">, </span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Cujo</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">, </span><i style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">Shawshank Redemption</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"> etc. are excellent examples of taking his many books and having Hollywood take a crack at them. But this new adaptation of It, sticks to the book even more so then the 1990s mini-series even did. Some elements are absent (reading the book will provide an understanding of why) in order to compress for time, but this doesn't take away from the overall story. Some of the best elements are the scenes where Pennywise really scares the kids, and the scenes where the kids are themselves and also start to take the inevitable stand against that monster clown. All in all, this script is really spot on. It helps that there was amazing cast to go along with it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0803889/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Bill Skarsgård</span></a> was scary as scary can get. Where Tim Curry's portrayal of It/Pennywise was one that was approachable, Bill's was similar but also even more scary and disturbing. This was achieved partly due to stellar special effects and also Bill's abilities as an actor. He really knows how to take the disturbing nature of the character and make It even more frightening with things like the laugh, zany movements, plus that special effects budget that brings the terrors of It to life. And if you think Bill being cast as It/Pennywise was good, the kids who play the Losers are just as on par. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">One of the things that makes the movie great is the kids. This is a group of 7 different people, with different acting styles, different personalities, different everything. Each one of them gets a very equal portion of screen-time. There is quite frankly no easy way to in depth about each one, because each of them does such a fabulous job. For the newcomers to the big world of Hollywood, they are going to go far if they keep up the level of professional they brought to these roles. For already noted members of the group who are already big name stars, being a part of this movie will only serve to anchor their careers and get them attached to more great movies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Like any movie, there is an underlying theme, sometimes it is obvious and sometimes it is not. <i>For It: Chapter 1</i>, that theme is fear and facing it head on. Every single one of the kids is afraid of something, and of course It/Pennywise exploits those fears and try's to take them down and feed on them like other poor victims over the years. But this time, there is resistance, due to that magical but very sincere power of friendship that binds the Losers together for making a final stand against their twisted foe. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">And with this being part 1, fans who are just discovering this movie and those who are already devoted Stephen King fans will flock to theaters all over when <i>It: Chapter 2</i> makes its way onto the big screen eventually. But there's a lot of interesting questions now. Who will be cast to play the Losers all grown up? How faithful will the second part be to the book? Will there perhaps be even bigger and scarier special effects then the current movie? All of these and more will be answered when <i>It: Chapter 2</i> gets made and is brought to life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">As far as modern horror/scary movies go, this one was pretty darn great. Yes there is lots of thrills and scares for a good chunk of the plot that will leave people wigging out, but there is also the faithful script and great casting to make it an enjoyable fright delight. Halloween is only weeks away, so why not get in the spirit of the season by kicking back and seeing <i>It: Chapter 1</i>. After all, we all float down here, and you should float down too.</span></div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-78678643592961168622017-08-15T23:07:00.000-05:002017-08-15T23:07:08.352-05:00Batman and Harley Quinn: When Team-Ups Get Nutty<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"Harley Quinn reporting for duty sir."</i> - Harley Quinn.</div>
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Last night was quite a fun one as my girlfriend, myself and a friend of ours took in the one time only showing of the latest DC Animated Film <i><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt6556890/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Batman and Harley Quinn</span></a></i>. This was a special event between DC and Fathom Events before the film was released digitally today, and will get its actual home video release on August 29 later this month.<br />
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Before reading further everyone should know something, this movie is NOT for small children, this has adult language and implied adult themes in it, and therefore should only be viewed by age-appropriate persons.<br />
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That being said, this really was a fun animated feature, it felt like a bit of a throwback to the days when <i>Batman the Animated Series</i> was king of superhero cartoons (while still competing with Spider-Man and the X-Men and Superman cartoons). Seeing the movie on the big screen, there was a sense of nostalgia that made me think of what it must have been like when <i>Batman: Mask of the Phantasm</i> hit theaters in 1993. With <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0863622/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Bruce Timm</span></a> returning to co-write the script alongside <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0471172/?ref_=tt_ov_wr" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Jim Krieg</span></a>, this is something Batman fans, Harley Quinn fans and fans of DC's animated properties will all enjoy.<br />
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It's plot (without giving too much away) involves Batman and Nightwing having to team up with the Joker's former partner and girlfriend, the one and only Harley Quinn, to stop Poison Ivy and Jason Woodrue (the Floronic Man) from unleashing chaos on the world. Nothing further is going to be said, no spoilers here.<br />
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In one corner, voicing the teams heroes is the return of stars <a href="https://twitter.com/RealKevinConroy?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kevin Conroy</span></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/actorLL" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Loren Lester</span></a> as Batman and Nightwing, with <i>The Big Bang Theory</i> star <a href="https://twitter.com/MelissaRauch?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Melissa Rauch</span></a> stepping into the role of Harley Quinn. Conroy and Lester do a superb job as they have in the past. To have them step back into their two most memorable roles, its sort of a trip down memory lane, back to the days of Saturday morning cartoons and sugar cereal. It's almost like it hasn't been years since they teamed up to voice the Dynamic Duo. As for Melissa Rauch taking on the role of one of DC's most famous and quite honestly now iconic leading ladies, its different and downright awesome. This Harley is independent, she doesn't need her 'Mista J', but she's also the same firecracker spunky Harley fans have come to love over the years. On top of that, Harley doesn't take any sort of nonsense from Batman, she doesn't let the Dark Knight push her around when it comes to helping to stop Ivy and Woodrue. Rauch's banter as Harley to Conroy and Lester's Batman and Nightwing will have fans laughing themselves silly, and there's an added surprise in store in a certain scene that no one will even remotely see coming.<br />
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And in the other corner, stepping up to the plate to voice the villains of this story, is <a href="https://twitter.com/pagetpaget" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Paget Brewster</span></a> as Poison Ivy and<span style="color: blue;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/ClevelandJr" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Kevin Michael Richardson</span></a></span> as Jason Woodrue aka. The Floronic Man. Both of them kill it in their roles, Paget's Poison Ivy is dead on, exuding the same contempt for all humanity and willing to do whatever it takes to make the world safe for nature again. And her dialogue with Melissa Rauch's Harley is awesome, classic Harley and Ivy material all the way. Richardson's Jason Woodrue, now he is one bad plant man. For DC fan's who know of Woodrue and what he's capable of, the ruthless anger he has towards "meat" for poisoning the Earth will be felt through and through.<br />
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Summing it up, Batman and Harley Quinn was excellent, just excellent. To everyone who didn't get the chance to see it in theater's last night, now you can see it on your screen's digitally, or wait until August 29 to get the DVD or Blu-Ray. Either way, to Batman and Harley fans, it'll be a treat, a real treat to watch Gotham's hero team up with Harley Quinn in order to save the day. For this animated extravaganza, five out of five stars is what it gets, thanks to an astounding voice cast, great story and all in all a huge nostalgia wave to the glory days of Bruce Timm's masterpiece work.</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-31252212842185814812017-08-14T15:58:00.000-05:002017-08-14T15:59:29.445-05:00The Dark Tower: Stephen King's Novel's Brought to Life<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7; color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>"For centuries, the gunslingers were knights. Sworn to protect this from the coming of the dark. Now I'm the only one left"</i> - Roland Deschain.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: #333333;">A few days ago with my girlfriend and some of our friends, we took in a showing of </span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1064048/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Nikolaj Arcel's</span></a><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1064048/?ref_=tt_ov_dr" style="color: #333333;" target="_blank"> </a><span style="color: #333333;">film version of </span><a href="https://www.stephenking.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Stephen King's</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> "The Dark Tower" series. Starring </span><a href="https://twitter.com/idriselba?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Idris Elba</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> as Roland Deschain (the last of the Gunslinger's), with </span><a href="https://twitter.com/tomtaylor1607" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Tom Taylor</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> as Jake Chambers (the boy who aids Roland in his mission to protect the Tower) and </span><a href="https://twitter.com/McConaughey?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Matthew McConaughey</span></a><span style="color: #333333;"> as Walter Padick/ The Man in Black (the man who would destroy the Tower and rule over all). Despite not having read 'The Dark Tower' series myself (yet), I found the movie to be very enjoyable, with an excellent cast, story, and special effects and a strong theme of never giving up.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7; color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The story itself is a mash-up, a weaving together of elements from the first seven of the eight books in 'The Dark Tower' series. While for many fans who may take issue with this because it can lead to beloved characters being dropped and 7 whole books being put together for an 95 minute movie, this is still a very enjoyable science fantasy western. If anything, for people who haven't read the books before (like myself) it only encourages them to go out and actually read them. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7; color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Casting wise, the three principal characters were dead on. Idris Elba IS Roland Deschain, a man of conviction and strong ideals who has been shaken by the war against Walter Padick, yet still continues on against seemingly impervious odds. Tom Taylor, who is a newcomer to the movie industry, is well cast as Jake, a boy with spirit who keeps dreaming of Roland, The Man in Black, the Tower and the destruction that will come with its fall. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Matthew McConaughey would not have been my first choice as Walter Padick (he has never struck me as the villainous type) but after seeing his performance, that mindset has been eliminated. His smooth voice, which has aided his many roles in the past a more cheerful and heroic figures, aids him again, this time helping bring such a dark figure to life. With a honey like tone that sounds pleasing to the ear but brings with it death and the promise of chaos should he succeed in destroying the Tower.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The special effects were marvelous. Bringing to life Mid-World, a place not unlike Earth but that has fallen into decay and fractured chaos, the gates that allow travel between the various world (very excellent, makes one think of how a rip in space and time would like, but controlled). And lastly there's Walter's dark magic which he uses with such willful malice, coupled with the device with which he plans to destroy the Tower. It was all quite simply, awesome. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">With the theme of never giving up, movie goers can really latch on to the character's of Roland and Jake. Jake is set to not give up in his quest to prove that his dreams are real, and then his determination to help Roland stop Walter and save all life. Roland, his purpose and goal of not giving up is skewed at first. Initially, his mission or quest is one of vengeance against Walter, it is only after meeting Jake and seeing the boys youthful ambition and desire to help does he get out of his "funk" and knuckle down to finally bring about the end of Padick's mad campaign of destruction. This is something for people to take to heart, that even when the odds are seemingly against someone, one can still pull themselves up and make a firm stand. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: #fcfae7;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><i>The Dark Tower</i> was a intense, story driven and action packed summer film. Fans of both 'The Dark Tower' books and other Stephen King film adaptations will enjoy the mashing of plots into one synchronistic story. With it also brings the promise of a TV series (with Elba and Taylor slated to return to their roles of Roland and Jake. So for Even the most die hard of Dark Tower fans, this movie brings a lot with it, not just on the big screen but also with the promise of more adventure on the small screen as well. A resounding 5 out of 5 stars goes to <i>The Dark Tower</i> with the encouragement that anyone who has not seen it yet needs to, you won't regret it one bit.</span></span></span></div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-78127588662117537192017-07-10T22:49:00.003-05:002017-08-08T22:58:47.007-05:00Spider-Man: Homecoming- Spidey Making It with Marvel Studios<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Spider-Man is a well known and much beloved superhero and pop culture icon. He has been adapted numerous times for cartoons, video games, novels, audio books, toys, clothing and now for a third run of movies. Last night alongside my girlfriend and several of our friends, I settled in to watch Tom Holland's return to the big screen as the wisecracking webslinger.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/jnwtts?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Jon Watt's</span></a> brought Spider-Man properly into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a film that combines all of the best elements of the early Spider-Man comics; Peter Parker being pulled into the life of a superhero because of a desire to make good after Uncle Ben's death; the chaotic misbalance of superhero activities taking its toll on Peter's school and home life; an excellent team-up of sorts with another leading Marvel Comics hero, and two final points, villains that are engaging and are for sure to come back at later points, and lots of great dialogue/banter from Spidey.<br />
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In short, this is a movie that defies any and all expectations, quite honestly it is practically screaming for a whole line of Spider-Man movies to be made (or as many as can be made, not counting crossovers into other Marvel Studios projects).<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/TomHolland1996?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Tom Holland</span></a> nails it again as Peter Parker, with the film taking place only a handful of months after his team-up with Tony Stark and the Avengers in Germany. Peter finds himself bitten yet again, this time by the thrill of putting on the Spider-Man suit and going out to fight crime, do good, save the day and prove himself as a potential Avenger. Along the way he learns about responsibility, stepping up and taking a stand to face the odds when no one else believes he can and doing it all while still being only a sophomore in high school.<br />
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<a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelKeaton?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Michael Keaton</span></a>, oh wow Michael Keaton! What a performance! He took the Vulture, arguably one of Spider-Man's oldest villains (first appearing in <i>The Amazing Spider-Man #2</i>, May 1963), but a villain who up until now has only appeared in the various cartoon shows. That has now all changed. Marvel fans and movie lovers get a Vulture who is neither comedic or silly, but is gritty, determined to make it in a world that gave him the short end of the stick, and will kill Spider-Man in order to achieve his goals.<br />
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Rounding out is a great support cast,<span style="color: red;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/RobertDowneyJr?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Robert Downey Jr</span></a></span> as Iron Man (providing mentor-support to the fledgling Spider-Man),<span style="color: red;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/jon_favreau?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Jon Favreau</span></a></span> returning as Happy Hogan (acting as a sort of handler for Peter). <a href="https://twitter.com/marisatomei/media?lang=en" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Marisa Tomei</span></a> as Aunt May (still dotting on Peter like always), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm8188622/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Jacob Batalon</span></a> as Ned Leeds (thankfully not evil like his comic book counterpart, instead Peter's best friend), <a href="https://twitter.com/Zendaya?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Zendaya</span></a> as Michelle Jones (sassy classmate of Peter and Ned's), <a href="https://twitter.com/LauraHarrier?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Laura Harrier</span></a> as Liz (Peter's love interest/crush), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1334869/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Logan Marshall-Green</span></a> as Jackson Brice (one of two men calling himself Shocker in the movie), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0940158/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Bokeem Woodbine</span></a> as Herman Schultz (the REAL Shocker, taking up the title and providing muscle to Vulture),<span style="color: red;"> <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelChernus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Michael Chernus</span></a></span> as Tinkerer (another classic Spider-Man villain running with Vulture), <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldGlover" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Donald Glover</span></a> as Aaron Davis (uncle to Miles Morales and giving a hint that he will show up later in the series), with <a href="https://twitter.com/GwynethPaltrow" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Gwyneth Paltrow</span></a> making her return as Pepper Potts and <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisEvans" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Chris Evans</span></a> showing up in a very amusing Captain America cameo. And speaking of cameos, it just wouldn't be a Marvel movie without <a href="https://twitter.com/TheRealStanLee?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Stan Lee</span></a> showing up again in another of his hilarious small roles. All in all, both the main and support cast for this movie are top notch, each character is their own personality, not just wall dressing for the story to be moved along.<br />
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Locations and special effects and music, all knocked out of the park! From the streets of Queens to Washington D.C., Peter Parker's world keep's getting bigger as he keeps suiting up. Talking about special effects, such great special effects! Spider-Man's web slinging and power's in action, Vulture's flight suit, Shocker's gauntlet's, all of these elements tying together for another superhero smash! Lastly, this is a killer soundtrack! There's songs from lots of great artists, Canned Heat, Flock of Seagulls, Icy Black, the list just goes on and on.<br />
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<i>Spider-Man: Homecoming</i> does well for the first installment of movies that will be under the Marvel Cinematic umbrella, much in the same way Iron Man did back in 2008, it provides a fresh take on a long-standing Marvel favorite, one finally getting to stand tall as a part of the ever-expanding Marvel franchise. It lays the groundwork for more stories featuring Tom Holland as Spider-Man, with lots of hints and references to other Marvel movies, potential characters and stories to come within the Spider-Man framework. This action-packed, story/character driven and laugh loaded hero movie gets a whooping high rating of GO SEE IT, along with a rousing THIS MOVIE IS FANTASTIC! </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-58770884703653220192017-06-05T09:05:00.001-05:002018-02-09T15:36:27.452-06:00Wonder Woman: DC Comics Gets It Right<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last evening alongside my girlfriend and a group of our friends, we sat down in a packed theater to enjoy DC Comic's and Warner Bros. Pictures latest movie, which brought to life in a most epic, compelling and mind-blowing way, the character of Wonder Woman and her world.<br />
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Directed by <a href="https://twitter.com/PattyJenks?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Patty Jenkins</span></a>, the movie's cast was as follows: starring <a href="https://twitter.com/GalGadot" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Gal Gadot</span></a> in her return to the role of Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, with <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1517976/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Chris Pine</span></a> as United States USAAS (United States Army Air Service) Captain Steve Trevor, with <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001567/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Connie Nielsen</span></a> as Queen Hippolyta (Diana's mother and Queen of the Amazons), <a href="https://twitter.com/realrobinwright" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Robin Wright</span></a> as Antiope (Hippoylta's sister and general of the Amazon army), <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0025745/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Elena Anaya</span></a> as Doctor Isabel Maru/Doctor Poison (one of Wonder Woman's Golden Age villains and a chemist working for the German military), <a href="https://twitter.com/reallucydavis" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Lucy Davis</span></a> as Etta Candy (Wonder Woman's friend/sidekick in the Golden Age and Steve Trevor's secretary in the film) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0396812/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Danny Huston</span></a> as Erich Ludendorff (one of the leaders of the German military during World War I), and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000667/" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">David Thewlis</span></a> as Sir Patrick Morgan (one of the members of the Imperial War Cabinet working to end the war).<br />
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There are so many things to say about this movie, from plot and characters/casting, to the special effects and the music, the list goes on and on.<br />
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To touch on plot and characters/casting, both of these aspects were major show stealers for the entire movie. Every single moment of the plot was gripping, not once did it get slow or boring of seem to lag, coupled to the amazing cast (the major players I've listed above), each person stood out in their role and brought the respective persons from the Wonder Woman universe to life in such a realistic way.<br />
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A major theme I want to focus on in <i>Wonder Woman</i> that is constant throughout is that of people standing up for what they believe in and fighting for that belief. Whether it's Diana and her mission as an Amazon to save the world and make right that which is not, or Steve Trevor and his mission as a member of the Allies to end the war and avert more suffering and loss in the world, holding fast to one's belief and not giving up on it no matter what odds stand in the way is one of the things that stands out as a success of this movie. For Diana, despite having lived on Themyscira her whole life under the guidance of her mother and the Amazons, she goes into man's world never faltering in her steadfastness that she can save the world and make things better for people, even with things like the horrors of World War I surrounding her. It is a theme that everyone who see's the movie can latch on to, because it is something that drives all of humanity, standing up for what is right, holding fast to something that you believe in and staring down all obstacles and opposition when fighting for the causes that can change the world for the better.<br />
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When a person looks at Wonder Woman's various comics over the 75 years she has been in publication (and even if that person has never read a single comic in their life), this movie combines all of the best aspects of her character, and in some cases blows the comics themselves right out of the water. I will even go so far as to say, that this movie is on the same level of excellence and high quality as Christopher Reeves and the 1978 superhero classic <i>Superman</i>. <i>Wonder Woman </i>does for the comic book community and the movie going world of 2017, what <i>Superman</i> did in 1978, takes a character from comics who is well-known, has a heavily built up story-line and group of characters, and weds it to the magic of the movie-making industry. The end result being a film that is so powerful and grips a person so much that very few if any words can be used to describe it properly.<br />
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It is my firm stance that for all the success DC has had making superhero/comic book movies over the years, Patty Jenkins and the cast of <i>Wonder Woman</i> have shown that when DC takes one of their characters that many people love and tell their story the RIGHT way (meaning that while as a superhero movie it does have action, it doesn't skimp/diminish the characters and story by making these things sidebars to a lot of explosions and intense fighting), amazing things happen. Maybe now comic book fans and movie goers can breath a sigh of relief that future films from DC and Warner Bros. will take the formula laid down by <i>Wonder Woman</i> and apply it to all their future movie making efforts.<br />
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<i>Wonder Woman</i> gets nothing less then a high rating, for all of the things discussed throughout this review (without giving anything away I might add), and widening the scope of the superhero movie industry in a huge way. To everyone who reads this review and has not seen the movie yet, I urge you to see it! You will not want to miss out! And to everyone who has seen the movie and not yet picked up a Wonder Woman comic, perhaps you will change your minds after seeing the movie. This could very well be THE superhero movie of the year, and therefore is one that people should see in order to be a part of history. Do not miss out on <i>Wonder Woman</i> readers, that's all there is to say.</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-74121563982522467782017-05-29T17:45:00.004-05:002017-05-29T17:45:31.216-05:00Pirates of The Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales; A Swashbuckling Review<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Yesterday evening, I and my girlfriend and two of our friends, took in a showing of the latest chapter in the <i>Pirates of the Caribbean </i>movie series. And like all the other films that have preceded it, this one did not fail to disappoint in serving up a shipload of adventure, humor and high-seas mayhem the likes of which will never be forgot by anyone in the years to come.<br />
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Since 2003, when <i>The Curse of the Black Pearl</i> hit movie screens the world over, it brought to life for so many, a world of ships and adventures and treasure to life once more, stapled to the name of one of the most famous rides at both Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and the two international parks, Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Park in Paris. And over the years, each successive film has widened the universe of these stories a little bit more, and constantly brought back Captain Jack Sparrow alongside his allies and enemies, sailing the high seas in search of adventures.<br />
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<i>Dead Men Tell No Tales</i> takes its title from the old pirate adage, and with it comes a part of Jack Sparrow's (played as always in his eccentric noble glory by Johnny Depp) past that he had thought long buried at sea. Joining him are three new faces, Henry Turner (played by Brenton Thwaites), the son of Will and Elizabeth, Carina Smyth (played by Kaya Scodelario), an astronomer who like Henry, hunts for the treasure at the center of the plot (which I will not be revealing what said treasure is, no spoilers here good readers). And lastly, the third and final new face to the movie is Armando Salazar (played by Javier Bardem), a Spanish pirate hunter with ties to Jack and his younger days as a rogue of the seas.<br />
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Returning to their familiar roles are Geoffrey Rush as the always roguish Captain Hector Barbossa and Kevin McNally as Jack's First Mate Joshamee Gibbs. It's always a treat to see these two gentleman don their pirates garb and trade wits with Johnny Depp and cross swords with the latest villain to plague them all.<br />
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The films plot is one that I won't go into massive detail about (as I said, no spoilers here), its feels slightly typical in that Jack gets himself into a mess of trouble, makes new friends, crosses paths with a fierce and in this case old foe, and all engage in a hunt for a treasure of ultimate power. And yet, with this return to form, its almost as if the series gets a "soft reboot", returning Jack to the way he was at the very start of the franchise, down on his luck, and then falling into adventure that helps restore his spirits and touches the lives of all around him (the majority for good).<br />
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Special effects for this movie are top notch as always, especially during the sea battles and when the film reaches its climax with the majority of the principal characters.<br />
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Each of these films never fails with its casting, story and special effects, these are constant things that always make each new film as enjoyable as the last one. And with this "reboot", and the introduction of new characters, I look forward to seeing what comes next in the adventures of Captain Jack Sparrow and his adventures. I urge any and all who see it, to wait during the credits, there's a surprise scene that heightens the story and alludes to who the next film may bring back in terms of central characters. Top marks for the movie, this is another win for Disney and <i>The</i> <i>Pirates of the Caribbean</i>!</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-52103660397224140662017-05-08T22:58:00.000-05:002017-05-08T22:58:07.184-05:00Guardians of the Galaxy 2: Bigger, Badder, and back with more Music<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Over the weekend, I sat down with my girlfriend and two of our friends to watch the Guardians of the Galaxy return to the big screen, with a story that brought a lot more development to the cast (each in its own way), and brought the team that much closer to the eventual super-team up that will occur in <i>Avengers: Infinity War</i>. This latest blockbuster from Marvel Studios is another piece in the very long awaited puzzle building up to a titanic showdown.<br />
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As <i>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2</i> has just opened several days ago, I'm not going to give away any of the plot for all those who have not seen it yet.<br />
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But I am going to say this, there is a lot of great character development throughout the course of the movie, and it unifies the Guardians in a way that was totally unexpected, but when the dust and smoke of the movie and its action had settled, made total and perfect sense. In particular, the character development for Yondu (played again by Michael Rooker) and Rocket Raccoon (voiced again by Bradley Cooper), was very stand out and lent a very strong element of these two gruff and tough space hard-cases being even more likable and memorable then the first time around.<br />
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The special effects for this movie were a treat, just like with the previous one, with the Guardians knocking about the galaxy, making it safe for all inhabitants and visiting some pretty strange and outrageous worlds in the process.<br />
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<i>Vol. 2</i> has a soundtrack that is just as fun and full of great sound as the first time around, including songs from Electric Light Orchestra, Fleetwood Mac, Cheap Trick, Sweet and Looking Glass. Each song was clearly chosen in a precise manner to line up with different parts of the story, adding that old school music touch to another film that has some salutes to the 80's and Star-Lord's childhood.<br />
<br />
<i>Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2</i> is a welcome return for the entire cast (and with some new faces added into the mix as well). It was refreshing to see the team back together again, kicking butt, saving the day, all to the tunes of the 20th century, with special effects that are to die for. This is a another cinematic triumph for Marvel Studios, and after <i>Avengers: Infinity War</i> hits theater's in 2018, I can't wait to see what direction the Guardians of the Galaxy are taken next. I am giving this superhero smash high marks, and urge anyone and everyone who reads this review, if you haven't seen it yet, go see it!!!</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-47616174982316341722017-03-27T22:03:00.001-05:002017-03-27T22:05:53.134-05:00Onward Golden Guard Interview: A Kickstarter Comic/RPG Tribute to Golden Age Superheroes<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPaMt2k3k14aJecGKyJmEolTNjc_4E_V5Cb4VnnmS496_8ihSryvjsJuj73VXT76dFd9n36WjdYamx0LvvqCAmofBEq1u2txa-SgNZa-ptbhgIGqT7F2OhFfVuvuMPWW-aDhyw-x9muI/s1600/OnwardGoldenGuard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKPaMt2k3k14aJecGKyJmEolTNjc_4E_V5Cb4VnnmS496_8ihSryvjsJuj73VXT76dFd9n36WjdYamx0LvvqCAmofBEq1u2txa-SgNZa-ptbhgIGqT7F2OhFfVuvuMPWW-aDhyw-x9muI/s400/OnwardGoldenGuard.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the 21st century, comic books and superheroes have changed a lot. Companies are doing constant revisions of the overall history of their characters, characters are being redone and redesigned to fit the changing tastes and desires of the fanbase. Books are canceled, then revived, then canceled again, and teams/groups that at one point were the #1 sellers are shuffled under the rug or given such a makeover that there's no resemblance to the original. That's where The ONWARD GOLDEN GUARD Kickstarter from 3 Rogues Studios comes into play. This project, the brainchild of Vito Delsante, Carlos Cabalerio and Charlie McElvy, is a comic book/tabletop RPG that introduces backers to the world of The Golden Guard, a superteam from the grand Golden Age of the 1940s. All three of these fellows are accomplished members of the comic book/RPG community, so a collaboration of this magnitude will have a fantastic end result. And now to tell you about the project and The Golden Guard itself in their own words, is the three fine gentlemen who are the fathers of this superhero world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>Carlos and Charlie: How
did Vito bring you both in on the project? </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Carlos- Vito and I go back to meeting at
SDCC (San Diego Comic Con) back in 2006. Through mostly my fault (ok, all my
fault--I never responded back to his email), that meeting didn't lead to any collaboration.
Flash forward years later and I found Vito on FB and sent him a friend request.
I supported both Stray KS campaigns, cheered him on. I had just worked on a
trading card set for DC and I had a chance to draw some of my favorite
characters, the Golden Age JSA. I had a bit of rare down time between gigs and
decided to do a little piece for myself of the JSA. At that same time, Charlie
and Vito were getting the ball rolling on Golden Guard and had no artist
attached to the project yet when this JSA piece of mine showed up on Vito's
newsfeed. He contacted me if I had sequential work and after sharing that with
Charlie, they pitched me the idea for the project and I said yes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Charlie- </span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Vito
and I shared a mutual affection for each other's work, and we just
naturally gravitated together. It's probably a longer story than
that, but not particularly exciting. It's more like trying to explain
how you met your lifelong friend -- you don't recall all of the
really fine details, it just...happens. :) </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>Carlos: What has been the
most challenging part of doing all the art for the comics and the RPG? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Carlos- Time is the biggest
challenge. This project is a labor of passion, that means no payments till this
book gets funded. Now, most of the work I've been doing has been character
creation and the History Book pages. All this has been going on between paid
work, and I've been insanely busy since late last year. I've worked my butt off
to secure enough in the bank and with the funding of this book to take off the
next 3-4 months to work exclusively on getting the main book completed and out
to backers by October. I'm a page a day guy, so that is more than enough time
for me. The History Book is there to keep the backers engaged (and informed) as
I toll away on the book.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><b>Follow up: Are there any panels or pages in the RPG you
are especially proud of?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I honestly don't have a
favorite. I think every page and every panel matter in a story. I'm really
proud of the work I'm doing on this project overall. Ask me again when the
whole book is done and in people's hands because there are amazing panels and
pages coming up that I haven't finished yet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>Is there a
character you’ve enjoyed drawing and bringing to life for the comic and RPG? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I think Eidolon and
Cadmus are my 2 favorite designs and the first 2 solely created with my
involvement but I really enjoy getting to come up with outfits for Americana to
fit each time period she's been active in. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large; line-height: 107%;">Questions for Charlie</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><b>I’ve
read through the WatchGuard (Charlie's own published comic book) and the characters you crafted for the
issue all stand out in their own ways, but especially the characters
of James, Sentinel and Garrison. Are there going to be characters in
the Golden Guard RPG that you place the spotlight on in particular?</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">First, I'm glad a few characters stand out, and I'm always excited to
find out who gravitates to whom, so thanks! Voyager (James) is
technically the leader of the team, so he was a natural fit for more
attention; Sentinel just happened. I didn't mean to love that guy so
much, but he's a personal favorite, so I probably, subconsciously,
wrote him more affectionately. As for TGG characters in the RPG works
for this Kickstarter, I have my admitted passion for Cadmus, but
thankfully Vito wrote the bios already. That said, who knows what
scenarios I'll cook up for these guys. I also have some guest
writers, so you can bet their favorite(s) will get a little spotlight
writer's love.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">Questions for Vito</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">How did the idea
for the Golden Guard project come about?</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It just came from a need,
a desire, to create a really all encompassing history for a lot of my work. I
try to make sure that everything I do has a connection. That everything fits
together, everything is a piece of a larger puzzle. You have to stand back and
look at the big picture really closely, but it's all there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>In the FAQ, you
answer the question of that the Kickstarter will tie into the Stray Universe (a comic book universe Vito created),
but HOW will it fit into the world you’ve been building over the years? </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The ties are loose. As I
have a contract with Action Lab, I can't be extremely overt in how the two
projects fit together, but you don't have to read one to enjoy the other.
Again, you have to stand back and look at the bigger picture once everything is
done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Questions for All Three Creators</span></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">What’s been your
favorite part working on this project together?</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Vito: Everything, really.
There's a lot of back and forth, there's a lot of ideas thrown at each other
and a lot of compromise. I think we all have a unique talent to spot the best
idea in "the room," and it's not always the one we personally
suggest. It's a tight team...the only thing we're missing currently is a
colorist, but once we have one, that compromise and being open to an idea
that's not yours will extend to her or him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Carlos: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The team and by that I
mean Charlie and Vito. We really work well together and genuinely care for each
other. Comics isn't an easy business. 96 pages and additional art for covers
and the RPG is a HUGE chunk of my life. Its a big ass commitment but I have
faith in these guys and dealing with them day in and day out makes this
significant investment of my career worth it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Charlie: </span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just
that: working together! Collaboration is so rewarding when there's a
natural synergy amongst the creators. I love these guys, and I love
how they think and work. When I did WatchGuard, I worked 100% solo.
Writing, publishing, developing, hiring freelancers, building
designs, page layouts, figuring out how to get stuff done...LOTS of
work went into that project, and it was entirely on my shoulders to
get it done. So, just having someone to share the load would be
enough, but doing so with guys you enjoy working with is its own
reward!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>Do each of you have a
character you’re excited for backers and fans to see?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Vito: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I've gone on record as
saying King Jaguar and Captain Scarab are my favorites. They have a Booster
Gold/Blue Beetle relationship, and just like how they bounce off of each other.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Carlos: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Not a character, but the
team together in action. Both in the past and in the present. That's what I'm
excited for them to see.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Charlie: </span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">CADMUS!!!
AMERICANA!!! CAPTAIN SCARAB!!! Honestly, I'm excited for readers to
get a chance to really meet each of these characters!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b>After the Kickstarter is
fully funded and the books come out, what is the next step for the Golden
Guard?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Vito: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sleep. Then make the
book.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Carlos: </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">BOOK 2 and a that book's
free weekly 48 page book...Tales of the Golden Guard. 4 page shorts featuring
characters from the History Book and tackling a multitude of genres (western,
war, sci fi, adventure, pulp, noir, crime, etc).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Charlie: </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">For me, it'll probably be expanding the RPG with more characters,
some new scenarios, and so forth. I'm pretty sure we'll have plenty
to show off in the next couple years with TGG, well beyond this
Kickstarter's goals. ONWARD GOLDEN GUARD!!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: inherit;">And there you have it readers! Straight from all three of The Golden Guard's creators!! This is one Kickstarter that when fully funded, will be worth the while of all its backers!! A comic book series and RPG bringing forth a new world of superheroes, each one unique and fantastic in their own right!! Click this link here: </span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/3roguesstudio/the-golden-guard-book-one-columbia-rediviva-comic" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/3roguesstudio/the-golden-guard-book-one-columbia-rediviva-comic</span> </a></span> </span>and show your support and bring The Golden Guard out of the minds of these guys and into the light!! Its a superpowered adventure you don't want to miss out on!! ONWARD GOLDEN GUARD!!!!<br />
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comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-90965745966438643262017-03-26T23:48:00.002-05:002017-03-26T23:48:25.680-05:00Power Rangers: The Classic Franchise Gets A Reboot<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Last evening I took in a showing of the new <i>Power Rangers</i> movie with my girlfriend and two of our friends. While I grew up in the 90's, sadly I did not get into the craze like everyone else did, though I have remained a fan over the years, and so going into this movie, could appreciate and like it for what it was.<br />
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Simply put, this movie is an origin story, reintroducing the original Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers into the 21st century, with the core characters of the original team (Jason, Kimberly, Billy, Trini and Zack), all being given depth in terms of their character backgrounds and personalities, the things that make them stand out as individuals, and that draws them together to find the Morphing Coins and become the Power Rangers. Zordon and Rita (played by Bryan Cranston and Elizabeth Banks) are also given more depth for audiences and Power Rangers fans, broadening the scope of who they are beyond mentor and primary villainess. Even Alpha 5 fills a larger role, helping to take these five teens with attitude and train them to become the saviors of Earth.<br />
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The special effects for the movie were quite literally out of this world!! Whether its the armor the Rangers wear (looking more like actual armor befitting warriors going into battle), or Rita's large monster she uses to try and destroy Earth, Zordon's face booming out instructions and mentor-style speech, or...the Zords!!! Because lets face it, this wouldn't be a Power Rangers movie without our heroes not only suiting up, but getting in the cockpits of their large and prehistoric modeled fighting machines!!! And the special effects on the Zords and the MegaZord do not disappoint!!<br />
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<i>Power Rangers</i> contains lots of elements that are part homage to the original series, and also takes cues from the modern age, especially in terms of characterization and story structure. Overall, if you are someone who has grown up loving the franchise and the Power Rangers, then this movie will not disappoint you. If you're like me and you know Power Rangers and appreciate it, then this movie will also not disappoint you either. And if you are someone who never gave a darn about Power Rangers before or are just now getting into it, then as an introduction to the world of the Rangers that will entice you to go back and watch the original series's, then this is definitely the movie for you!!! I am giving this movie a high rating and excellent marks for taking a beloved 90's franchise, and bringing it forward into the 21st century!! Go go go see <i>Power Rangers </i>as soon as you can!!!</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-27703433927884310332017-03-19T23:10:00.002-05:002017-03-19T23:10:48.925-05:00Kong: Skull Island: The King of Apes Is Back<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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On Saturday I settled in to a movie theater once again, this time to watch 'Kong: Skull Island' with my girlfriend and a good friend of ours. It delivered up a hair-raising, action filled epic featuring King Kong making his return to the big screen, with a well-rounded cast and a story that is sure to set-up other classic giant movie monsters returning as well.<br />
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With a backdrop of 1973 at the end of the Vietnam War, Tom Hiddleston plays one of the principal roles, James Conrad a former British Special Air Service Captain who joins up with William Randa (John Goodman) and his research team alongside United States Army Lt. Col. Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson), and joined by his multi-casted military squadron of troops, set out for the aptly named Skull Island, being drawn into a land of horrors and death, all the while dealing with the realization that they, the human race, are not alone on the planet, when confronted again and again by Kong.<br />
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The special effects for 'Kong: Skull Island' are out of this world! Kong is so real, his movements and everything about him, one would actually expect him to suddenly reach a massive paw out through the screen to grab at audiences. And the special effects for the other inhabitants of Skull Island, well lets just say it will surprise, shock and awe you movie-lovers, and that's all you are going to get out of this review.<br />
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If like me, you are a fan of King Kong and other movie monsters, and all their various films, then this is one movie you are going to want to see in theaters. 'Kong: Skull Island' is a fine comeback for Kong, and with characters like the ones played by Tom Hiddleston and Samuel L. Jackson, each installment that comes out after this one will only serve to build upon the world that is laid out before us, and just adds another notch on the wide belt of accomplishments that are the other King Kong movies that have come out over the years. </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-2647531283492523762017-03-19T22:41:00.004-05:002017-03-19T22:44:19.031-05:00Beauty and the Beast: A Tale As Old As Time<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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On Friday evening, I surprised my girlfriend with tickets to a movie that has been talked about for several years now and generated massive amounts of chatter, both online and offline.<br />
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I am of course talking about Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast', starring Emma Watson as Belle and Dan Stevens as the Beast. Under the direction of Bill Condon, with Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos writing the script, the end result was a film that is not a direct adaptation of the original 1991 Disney animated classic, nor an adaptation of the hit Broadway show, but its own story, wedded to the music and songs of both the animated original and the Broadway production.<br />
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This review is not intended to be chock-full of spoilers, rather, I will state as I have with other reviews, the primary motivations/reasons why this movie was an amazing release for Disney's live-action film line.<br />
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1. Casting: What a cast this was! Each actor and actress brought their character to life, giving them all more depth and background, fleshing out certain characters who were central to the story, but didn't have much in the way of their own story beyond what was seen on the screen or stage. Everyone who see's this film will be delighted by the cast, and I would not be surprised if certain leads get nominated/win Oscar's for their performances.<br />
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2. Music/Soundtrack: Many of the original songs composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman for the original animated movie were used, with Menken returning to score the movie along with Tim Rice. To all who grew up delighting in these songs, you will not be disappointed one bit, plus a few song surprises thrown in by Menken, so make sure to keep your ears open.<br />
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'Beauty and the Beast' is a wonderful romantic musical masterpiece from Disney, a fantastic and heart-warming story of love with songs that will continue to remain ingrained in the hearts and minds of all who have a passion for Disney musicals. I am giving 'Beauty and the Beast' a high approval rating, and will tell everyone who has not already seen it, to go see it right away! It will charm you, make you laugh, make you cry, make you cheer for the true love that blossoms between Belle and Beast and you will see first hand a tale as old as time come to life before your very eyes once more on the silver screen.</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-14387443772255510522017-03-06T23:48:00.001-06:002017-03-06T23:48:06.344-06:00Logan: A Film Farewell to one heck of an X-Man<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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How does one say goodbye to a role and character who for the last 17 years has been a mainstay of the superhero film genre? This is a question many people will have been asking this past weekend, and those who have not seen Hugh Jackman's final performance as James "Logan" Howlett aka Wolverine, one of the most famous and well known members of the X-Men team and one of the main selling faces of the overall X-Men film franchise (this includes his spinoff films, of which 'Logan' is the third and final installment).<br />
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Last night I saw 'Logan' with my girlfriend, my brother and a group of our friends. And I will say this right now, be prepared (if you've not seen 'Logan' yet), to have your heart yanked out as you watch Hugh Jackman put on Logan's grit, grim determination, violent tendencies and innate desire to help out/save the world one last time.<br />
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I do not intend to give anything away in the way of plot, characters etc. As a nerd and fan of superhero films, I will not be like other blogs/reviewers out there who feel the need to spoil a film for fans who have not seen it yet. I will however talk about Jackman's performance, his last bow as Logan.<br />
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Hugh Jackman has always played the character with a certain brashness, because he is in many respects, an animal. Gruff (but with heart), violent, not giving a care about other people (until pulled in to another save the world scenario with the X-Men), and certainly the kind of guy who would sooner punch you then try to talk things out in a situation, this time, Jackman is playing a literally older Logan, a Logan worn down by not just age, but also by the state of the world, and a desire to be left alone, and not get involved in the problems of other people. This is not the Wolverine of old, this is a Wolverine who is ready to die, and would welcome death like a friend.<br />
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It's hard to believe, that after 17 years, Hugh Jackman is retired from a role that he has taken and made into his own, and brought the character of Wolverine to life in ways that no other actor could.<br />
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Seeing him up there on the screen, being Logan, in all of the characters gritty, hard as nails glory one last time was fantastic! There will quite literally never be another actor to take up that role (and hopefully studios will never try to recast), because how could anyone ever come close to the level of performance and character development that Jackman has put into the character these past 17 years.<br />
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In closing, I give 'Logan' the highest of marks for its characters, story, scenery, action and above all else, for allowing Hugh Jackman to hang up the claws in a way that did Wolverine justice, and gave for what I hope many (myself included) consider/will consider, to be a fitting finale to the Wolverine movie story. </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-1366914865573194112017-02-13T20:50:00.000-06:002017-02-15T21:40:45.606-06:00The Lego Batman Movie: The Dark Knight Has Fun<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Yesterday evening I sat down with my girlfriend and two of our friends to take in the 'The Lego Batman Movie', and it was absolutely hilarious! This movie does everything so right, taking the entirety of the Batman franchise, putting it together with the outlandish humor that was a part of 'The Lego Movie', mix in a stellar voice cast and the end result is non-stop laughs!<br />
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'The Lego Batman Movie' is chock full of references to everything Batman, from the vast history of the character in the comics, to his many years of being both a presence in TV and movies, and there are plenty of other nerdy Easter Eggs thrown in as well (no spoilers, everyone who has not seen this movie will need to see it to pick out the Easter Eggs themselves).<br />
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Will Arnett returns once more as the whining, outrageous voice of this iteration of the Dark Knight, bringing a lot more depth to the character within the confines of the Lego Universe. Michael Cera joins as the other half of the Dynamic Duo, a plucky and overly eager to please/be loved Dick Grayson/Robin who is very fond of gasping in excitement at things and has insane energy (even for a Lego figure).<br />
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Added into the mix is Ralph Fiennes as Alfred Pennyworth, still the stoic and wisdom dispensing butler that he is in the comic books and every other media that he's appeared in thus far. With one major difference, this version of Batman's loyal butler isn't above being more involved in keeping "Master Bruce" from going down a lonely road of sadness and despair. With Rosario Dawson as the voice of Barbara Gordon (newly minted Commissioner of Gotham City Police), fans are given a character who is very passionate about making a difference in Gotham, and in pursuing that goal, discovers along the way what happens when you team with Batman to save the day (pure awesome that is what happens).<br />
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Stepping into the purple suit and madness of The Joker is none other then Zach Galifianakis, and while I admit I was skeptical (I am spoiled growing up with Mark Hamill as the voice of the Joker and I am not sorry for that), he brought his own brand of mayhem to the Clown Prince of Crime, and he did a bang up job of it too.<br />
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Whether you see it with your loved one, your kids, family or friends, 'The Lego Batman Movie' provides endless laughs for audiences, both fans and non-fans of Batman and his entire everything. It's a must see, feel good, fun-loving movie that will make you wanting to watch it again and again and again. </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-35065743289004561262017-01-31T23:57:00.000-06:002017-02-01T00:01:10.078-06:00Dirty Dancing: Finding Love Through Dance<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Two days ago, I had the great pleasure of seeing the 1987 classic 'Dirty Dancing' on the big screen with my girlfriend for what is currently the movie's 30th anniversary. Up until Sunday night, I'd never seen this movie before, oh I certainly knew about it, its place in the romantic movie genre, the classic line "Nobody puts Baby in a corner" etc. but seeing the movie on the big screen with my sweetheart, was a whole different experience entirely.<br />
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Three things stand out most with this movie, the story/casting, and of course the music and dancing.<br />
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'Dirty Dancing' has an iconic story, one of love and defying the standards of the setting, all in the name of being true to one's self and not being held back from making choices that are right for yourself, all while coming together through the power of dance. And in bringing that story to life, audiences have the amazing and wonderful casting of Jennifer Grey as Frances "Baby" Houseman and Patrick Swayze as Johnny Castle. The pair of them have amazing on-screen chemistry, they just fit so well together, and as their characters progress throughout the movie, fall in love and affirm that love (all while dancing their hearts out) and then the movie ends, you can't help but wonder "where do they go from there?".<br />
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Music, ah what music this movie has! With the films setting of 1963, there's much music from that time that makes up the film soundtrack, including songs from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, The Ronettes, Bruce Channel and so many others. Its a soundtrack that once you hear it, you can't get it out of your head, because you won't want to get it out of your head!<br />
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As for the dancing, holy wow what dancing! It's vibrant and daring and alive and close and there is such raw energy watching all of the cast dance, and even ten times that when one watches Grey and Swayze dance together, that one just can't help but be entranced by it all, by the power of their dancing.<br />
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'Dirty Dancing', what more can be said about this movie that hasn't already been said over the years? It's a beautiful story, with a cast that packs a wallop right in the heart, coupled together with music and dances that are well known to this day and will continue to be well known as the years go by. This is a movie that I will always love and cherish now, because I got to see it on the big screen for the first time with my girlfriend, the love of my life. </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-64229480998924653802017-01-16T22:55:00.002-06:002017-01-16T22:55:53.215-06:00Singin' In The Rain: A Timeless Classic<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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In the annals of history, people will always try to argue what was the best film of a particular year, at a particular point in time. But with a film like Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen's <i>Singin' In The Rain</i>, there is no contest, quite simply none. Yesterday I had the joy of seeing it on the big screen with my girlfriend, as the first of Turner Classic Movies and Fathom Events Big Screen Classics for 2017.<br />
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Gene Kelly, a name that will never be forgotten, even 100 years from now. He was the quintessential song and dance man, attacking each role he'd taken on over the years and making it his own. His voice and the songs he sung are legend, and in <i>Singin' in the Rain</i>, songs like Moses Supposes, Broadway Melody, Good Mornin', and of course the titular song of the film, are in my opinion, staples of his overall career in movies. There will quite literally never be another actor like Gene Kelly, his shoes are just too big to fill, and I doubt that anyone will ever attempt to fill them.<br />
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Debbie Reynolds, for whom the screening is dedicated, once again does a fabulous job as Kathy Selden, singing and dancing her way into hearts again, and showing Gene Kelly's character of Don Lockwood, that being an actor is so much more then just ham-acting, and that being a person is so much more too. When she and Gene sing together, their voices match so beautifully and their dancing<br />
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Donald O'Connor, well there's not much to be said about dear Donald. He makes us laugh, he helps push Gene and Debbie's characters together, he keeps Gene's spirits up and does what he does best, show us all what a little laughter, a little joy and a little merriment can do to brighten a person's day.<br />
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Gene Kelly movies are always must see's, if its a picture he is in tis' worth one's time to watch it. <i>Singin' In The Rain</i> is worth it because this lavish classic Hollywood musical extravaganza is a film that is timeless, 100% timeless, and it should be seen and enjoyed by all. Like the poster says, "What a glorious feeling". </div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5753792458104649782.post-36091981773821231152017-01-16T21:13:00.000-06:002017-01-16T21:13:01.256-06:00Rogue One: Filling A Gap in Star Wars History<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Star Wars is a major cornerstone of pop culture and pop culture fandom. The movie market may be dominated by superhero films, but one of the most enduring and beloved film franchises (and its other various offshoots), is George Lucas's epic space opera brainchild.<br />
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Since first hitting movie theaters in 1977, Star Wars has become a international phenomena, spawning offshoots in books, comic books, animation, video games, and merchandising galore. With J.J. Abrams telling the next chapters of the Star Wars story with Episodes VII, VIII and IX, Gareth Edwards (director of the 2014 <i>Godzilla</i> reboot) steps up to the plate by helming this, the first movie of the Star Wars Anthology Films (movies that according to <i>Rogue One</i> producer Kathleen Kennedy "exist within that vast universe that he (George Lucas) created").<br />
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<i>Rogue One: A Star Wars Story</i>, tells a story that had never been actually told before, the story of how the Rebel Alliance obtained the plans to the Death Star, setting in motion the events of <i>A New Hope</i>.<br />
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The cast of <i>Rogue One</i> is chock full of characters for Star Wars fans and movie goers to love and cheer on. Whether its Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso, fighting alongside the Rebellion to start ending the Empire's hold of terror over the galaxy, or Diego Luna as Rebellion Intelligence Officer Cassian Andor, Donnie Yen as Chirrut Imwe, a blind Force-sensitive warrior, Alan Tudyk as the sarcastic reprogrammed Imperial droid K-2SO, or any of the other numerous new characters that are introduced throughout the movie, there are characters for everyone to love and latch on to.<br />
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And for people who have been Star Wars fans their entire lives, there are many cameos by well known characters, including the return of James Earl Jones as the voice of Darth Vader!<br />
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As far as stand-alone movies that are a part of a bigger whole go, <i>Rogue One: A Star Wars Story</i> is a bold and brilliant first step in further expanding the overall Star Wars universe. It tells a story that fans young and old have not seen before, and fills in gaps that were never fully explained or extrapolated on in previous spin-off media. Tis' a grand addition to the Star Wars legacy, and a movie that should be seen by all.</div>
comicking92http://www.blogger.com/profile/11641496844978652358noreply@blogger.com0