Sid Spano's Movie Reviews and News

Ben Affleck NEEDS To Continue As Batman BUT...Warner Bros. Needs to Play Ball

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 16 Nov 2017 17:20:00 +0000

His casting caused some controversy, but with Batman v Superman, Ben Affleck proved that he IS Batman. Even the film's biggest critics agreed he gave a powerhouse performance. In the process Affleck also won over the hearts of the die hard fandom. I know at my local comic shop everyone there loves Ben in the role, and we all agree whether or not he is the "best" (too early to tell) he is without a doubt the comic book Batman. That experienced, older grizzled "I've seen a lot of shit" Batman. His cameo in Suicide Squad continued that great Batman performance and this weekend we have the premiere of Justice League with an apparently less broody, more hopeful and "traditional" Batman. Although the rumours continue to swirl regarding Ben Affleck's future under the cowl.

When asked about his future Affleck is constantly coy. At comic con in the summer he claimed it to be "the best role in any universe." However he didn't outright say "I am starring in Matt Reeves' The Batman." In recent interviews Mr. Affleck has stated he is "contemplating" starring in The Batman, and he is looking for a "graceful/cool way to segue out of the role." Which is good forward thinking, Christian Bale had a great exit, the only Batman actor to have an "exit." Keaton just didn't return, Kilmer just didn't return, and God knows nobody wanted Clooney to return. Affleck's final performance needs to be grand an operatic. But thats the thing....he needs to return for another performance.

I feel the reason Ben hasn't outright said "NO" is because he truly, deeply loves the Batman character, he grew up on the character. He enjoys playing the role, his kids enjoy seeing him as Batman and ultimately despite how annoying the fandom can get with hounding him about his future he does not want to let them down. BUT....I feel Warner Bros. is putting the pressure on him to return sooner rather than later. I suspect Affleck feels cornered by the role and almost claustrophobic in the sense that it is restricting him from other projects. Which is understandable he is an actor, a director, a screenwriter...he is NOT JUST Batman. I feel he wants to return but he just pure and simply needs a break from the character. Think Daniel Craig as James Bond, did anyone truly believe he wasn't returning? I mean I was worried he wasn't but I felt nah he's just tired, needs a break and wants to do some other work for now because quite simply he is NOT JUST JAMES BOND.

He is a comic panel come to life

Ben Affleck shot Batman v Superman in 2014, (and I believe in 2015 also, I could be wrong), he filmed a Suicide Squad cameo sometime then also. Justice League took up most of 2016 and also 2017 for reshoots. He has been in the Batman role for about 3 straight years with no break. Its not a heavy dramatic role, its an exhausting role requiring donning an uncomfortable suit and some action set pieces (mind you he has a stunt double). With rumours that WB wants The Batman to have a 2019-2020 release date puts more pressure on him to put the cape back on ASAP.

What Warner Bros. Should Do:

WB should be considerate. Ben probably has a couple of scripts in mind for his next directorial project. He's probably even writing a couple scripts, he is even signed on for some acting gigs (one with David Fincher I believe). The Batman role is restricting his career. If I was WB I would recognize we've had the guy for 2 films and a cameo, we can't recast the role....the majority of the audience have accepted him and the fandom loves him, regardless its not a duology or trilogy its a universe, we need him long term. BUT we don't want him upset with us. We NEED Ben Affleck as Batman. The smart thing for WB to do would be:

1. Bankroll the next (few) project(s) he wants. They've said before they are in 'the Ben Affleck business.' Make him happy, give him time to breathe, let him do a few projects he is passionate about, whether that be acting, directing, whichever. I love him as Batman but I think he's a great actor and director too! I know I want to see more of what he has to offer. There is rumours that he didn't "leave" directing The Batman (which was the original plan) but that he was removed because he wouldn't commit to a date. If thats the case, make it up to him. Give him his passion projects.

2. Delay The Batman. Don't rush. What for? What's the need? I know Matt Reeves said he wants to take some time off after Apes. Let Reeves take that time off and brainstorm his vision. Chris Nolan had a 4 year gap between The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises, who says The Batman needs to come out asap? DC has many heroes on deck waiting for a film with many potential films in the pipeline. We don't need Batman right away. Get that Flash movie out, give us a Superman sequel, give us Green Lantern Corps etc. There is plenty of time for Batman because pure and simply people can't get enough of the character, the demand will always be there, it won't just go away. Plus a few years without Batman makes a return more hyped, more hype= more money. This is where this point works in tandem with my previous point. WB should say "ok Ben we will delay the Batman (and an inevitable Justice League sequel that WILL require you) to give you your time to do other projects. We'll give you 2-2.5 years away from the cowl but be ready to go by 2020, 2021 and the odd cameo appearance." Flashpoint is in the pipeline and the end scene requires a Bruce Wayne appearance, Ben has to do that. Nightwing is in the pipeline too, Ben can cameo as Bruce Wayne, he doesn't need to even put the mask on! But aside from that if he has his break away from the role, there is no doubt in my mind he will be ready and willing to return later, even if its for a limited amount of time.

3. Higher salary. This is just logic. If they really want him to stay (I know they do), they'll also have to pay up. Pure and simple. Prove to him his worth, give him a back end cut of the profits. Make him a producer on The Batman or the inevitable Justice League 2. Hell give him a behind the scenes role with DC Films if he wishes that way he could put his creative vision and talents to good use, make him feel welcome and that he's not just the actor playing Batman but that he is involved in the process too.

4. Robert Downey Jr./Hugh Jackman. The reason I mention these names, these are actors that played Iron Man and Wolverine long term. Recasts won't work. Look I know Batman has had multiple actors play the role before, however those were all different visions. This Batman is in the DC Extended Universe. One big continuity. I know Matt Reeves' film won't acknowledge past films or set up future films but if its in the timeline you can't have a recast. Lock Ben Affleck in for an x picture deal. Doesn't have to be 5 more movies or anything extreme but enough to satisfy fans, the studio and a good character arc and that "Graceful exit" he's looking for to satisfy Mr. Affleck.

5. IF he is willing to do 1 and only 1 more. This is where it gets tricky. He has previously stated his plan was always to do 3 as long as "They'll have him." If his plan is only 1 more and that is absolutely it, it has to be Justice League 2 IF that gets made. Seeing another actor alongside the League after BvS and JL1 will just be distracting and not a good move. Matt Reeves' film (series) can have a younger actor in Batman's younger days if Ben is only willing to do 1 more film behind the mask. But this remains to be seen.

Bottom line, WB should play ball with Ben. I feel he wants to do it...just not now. I hope we get to see him in The Batman, I hope we get to see him in Justice League 2, I hope we get that Flashpoint cameo and other cameos. It would be a shame to lose the actor in the flagship role. Yes Batman has become the flagship character of the DCEU (Wonder Woman may take this title however). We know he won't be Batman "forever," but this "graceful exit" requires more time in the role. I hope Ben Affleck understands this, and I hope WB understands this and is willing to negotiate a deal moving forward into the DCEU's bright future.

What DC Films is Doing Wrong, and What they NEED TO DO

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 02:30:00 +0000

**this is just me ranting and putting my thoughts down...don't expect proper paper, article format**

These past few weeks the DC rumour mill has been spinning so fast you'd think it would take off like a damn helicopter at this point. These rumours of late are really making it seem like DC Films' house is not in order at all. I haven't posted an opinion piece or anything for that matter in a good while and this was definitely motivation to get back on here.

Let me get this out of the way first by saying I LOVE Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Man of Steel. LOVE THEM to me those are my 2 favourite comic films after Nolan's epic Dark Knight Trilogy. I realize they are polarizing with the audience but thats not my argument here. The purpose of this article is to clearly outline that DC Films/Warner Bros. does NOT KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THEIR SUPERHERO PROPERTIES

Zack Snyder kicked off DC's cinematic universe, the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) in 2013 with Man of Steel. A movie that received mixed review from critics and (in 2013 at least) positive reviews from fans (This has changed over the years, bandwagoning? tying it together with BvS? Idk..anyways). WB was really putting the pressure on Snyder and co. to replicate Marvel success by getting the Justice League on the big screen Snyder opted first to do a Man of Steel sequel that would introduce a rebooted version of Batman and pave the way for a larger cinematic universe. The film came out and was not received kindly by professional critics, the audience "liked it" (not loved) and as for the comic community it is still over a year and a half later a harsh debate between lovers of the film (including myself) and haters of the film. Suicide Squad in 2016 didn't fair any better. Wonder Woman finally the first film in the DCEU to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews came out this past summer and JL is currently on the way in November with some "Course correction" in its tone opting for more optimism and heroics along with some help with Joss Whedon....so what's the problem?

Here is the problem. DC does NOT Know where to go from here. The next DC film lined up after Justice League is James Wan's Aquaman with Jason Momoa reprising his role but this isn't due for more than a year after Justice League's debut....that is a lot of time in this ever growing comic book film renaissance. A lot of time for Marvel (who built a universe beautifully!) to take the attention off of DC and back onto themselves. DC has made bad decision after bad decision in regards to the direction of their film series with so many support characters/villains receiving solo films and being prioritized over their flagship characters:

SPINOFFS AND SECONDARY CHARACTER(S) FILMS:

DC is jumping the gun waaaaaaay too soon. They just started their universe. They are doing their whole "course correct" thing to make it more appealing like Marvel because people were hung up about the dark, bleak tone (I loved it!) but I understand that, the majority rules. But why wouldn't they focus on their core characters first?

Justice League Dark getting a solo film? listen, they are great characters but its way too soon for these B listers (C list?) characters to get their solo film. Look at Guardians of the Galaxy NOBODY outside comic readers knew who they were but it was a hit BUT it came after we got an Iron Man trilogy, Captain America movies, Thor movies, an Avengers film etc. What do we have so far? MoS, BvS, SS, WW and JL coming soon...where's Flash film? Green Lantern film? Batman solo film? (just wait for my rant on this...)

Black Adam solo film? this is just the studio being greedy because they have Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson signed on. Black Adam does NOT need a solo film...he is a villain, he needs to be in the Shazam film or its eventual sequel. How the hell is a spinoff film with a genocidal villain as the focus going to work? WB doesn't care they just want that "Dwayne Johnson blockbuster" regardless of how the movie is received. Also in regards to Black Adam they keep teasing Black Adam will fight Superman.....why? why does this need to happen? because its The Rock fighting Superman? NO! He is Shazam's enemy. Some rumours are pointing to Black Adam being the villain to Man of Steel 2 rather than an eventual Shazam film. PLEASE NO! Listen to fans, we want a proper Superman sequel about Superman, his supporting cast and HIS villains not someone else's! For years us fans have been begging for Brainiac give us that not Superman vs Black Adam! If they do indeed have to fight at some point let Superman be a mentor to Shazam and let Black Adam be the Shazam film villain and we can have a 2 on 1 fight.

This hasn't been mentioned in a while (thank God) but a Deadshot solo film? Same thing as my opinion on The Rock. This is WB trying to cash in on Will Smith star power. Deadshot is a cool character but works well in Suicide Squad, does anyone really care to see a solo film? Not really. At least not now. Use the multimillion budget for this potential film on a better project.

Batgirl. Great character! Definitely DOES need as solo film. BUT not yet. The solo Batman film needs to happen first. We have that aged Batman with the history, let his history with the "Bat family" and its villains unfold first before we get into his secondary partners. Just like Nightwing, this film isn't happening until LATER which is a great idea, there is no character more deserving of a big screen outing than Dick Grayson but like I previously stated the Bat needs to be fleshed out before his entourage.

Another thing DC is doing is putting their chips on Harley Quinn. This is one thing that was universally well received, Margot Robbie's performance as Harley Quinn, however I feel they are already on the way to over saturating the character too fast. Does a Gotham City Sirens film need to happen? probably not, or at least not yet. Does a Suicide Squad 2 need to happen? maybe. It has its fanbase and people definitely went to see the film, it was a box office success...
Joker and Harley Quinn was rumoured at San Diego Comic Con but wasn't officially announced until today. This is a bad idea in so many ways. First off I LOVE Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn and I thought Jared Leto's modern thug/gangster version of Joker was unique but just needed some time to grow. The Joker is Batman's arch enemy, this film idea is totally a gimmick and a disgrace to the character! It takes away the scare factor and makes him a joke! And once again back to my argument why the fuck are they not focusing on the essential DC properties getting off the ground instead of doing a spinoff of Suicide Squad? Where is DC getting this logic of "shared universe, oh ok every character needs their own solo movie now, gotcha." No, bad on so many levels. So what they expect the audience to root for a bunch of psychos? where is Batman during all of this? Perhaps this is simply Gotham City Sirens but even that just seems too soon and simply a world building move to say "hey Batman has been around a while look at all the characters in his universe!"

POSSIBLE OUTSIDE DCEU CONTINUITY FILMS

Apparently DC Films wants to do an imprint section of films that are self contained almost anthology like films completely unrelated to the DCEU for the big screen....Let me tell you why this is a bad idea. These aren't comics, these are films. In the comics you can have your multiple stories and different takes on the same character come out at once, its a niche market, the die hards are your audience and they will understand the difference. On the big screen for the main stream audience? Massive failure. There are still people I've met or have seen in online comment sections trying to make connections that aren't there between Nolan's trilogy and BvS, hell even saying Gotham tv series doesn't add up to the films. No shit it doesn't, they aren't related! Some people do not understand the concept of multiple universes based on the same character. This will add even more confusion. So what? we are going to have multiple big screen versions of Batman going on in the next few years? that is ridiculous. Why even go through all that bullshit of trying to play catchup with Marvel and get a shared universe off the ground if you aren't going to be completely dedicated to it? DC is once again pulling the "fuck Marvel we're different!" card but then once they make a decision that polarizes or tanks they're scratching their heads going "Where did we go wrong?"

JOKER FILM

Yesterday it was reported that apparently a "Joker" origin film is happening, one that is outside the DCEU and set in the 80's. This is wrong on so many levels. The Joker does NOT need an origin story...hell in the comics is origin is barely known as it is, the closest we got were his Killing Joke flashbacks even that is up for debate. We don't need a "Real name," or reason for him. The Joker is a complete psychopathic villain, we don't want to sympathize with him. Joker is much scarier not knowing a thing about him. There's this erieness to his enigmatic past. Almost as if he just appeared out of thin air with no reason for his cause other than to just spew evil and laugh at it. Almost like a demon or agent of chaos he claims to be. An origin movie takes away from this, also he works better as a support character. Look at Hannibal Lecter. InThe Silence of the Lambs you waited to see when's the next scene featuring Hannibal, he was so mysterious and creepy. The sequel "Hannibal" completely lost that factor by making him the star and giving him more screentime, the character lost its luster. Besides we already had an onscreen Joker "origin" in the 80's in the form of Batman (1989) directed by Tim Burton with Jack Nicholson playing "Jack Napier", mob enforcer who becomes the Joker.

Scorsese is apparently attached. Martin Scorsese is my all time favourite director. He has directed some of my most beloved films such as Goodfellas, Raging Bull, Taxi Driver, Casino, The Departed, the Wolf of Wall Street, Shutter Island etc. Seeing Scorsese attached to a comic film, a DC property no less is a dream come true. But not like this...not on a film that is so totally and completely unnecessary.

THE BATMAN

Now this is where I am frustrated to new levels. Matt Reeves apparently stating that his film The Batman is NOT CONNECTED to the DCEU. What. The. Fuck. As a die hard Batman fan I am willing to say this...if it is not connected to the DCEU I personally do not want a new version of Batman at all...meaning no new film. Let the character appear in Justice League films and crossovers then. WE DON'T NEED MULTIPLE BATMEN ON SCREEN AT THE SAME TIME! As referenced above I don't understand how they went through all this trouble to start a shared universe and now The Batman solo film will not be apart of it? Fans have been BEGGING to see Ben Affleck star in the role in a solo film. When he dropped out of directing everyone thought he was leaving the role too causing rage on the internet. Matt Reeves who is an incredible director steps in gave us hope of seeing a great solo Batman film and multiple sources assuring us Ben is staying (including Ben Affleck himself) however at least once every 2 weeks we hear a rumour from a new source, "Ben is leaving," I always called bullshit on this but with this whole "separate from the DCEU" shit they're throwing around it sounds like it could be true and I couldn't be anymore disappointed. So let me get this striaght since 2005 only 12 years the studio expects us to accept 3 versions of Batman? Bale/Nolan's, Affleck//DCEU and this separate Matt Reeves version? thats asking too much. I'd rather Nolan's films be the last "solo/self contained Batman series ever" because those were masterpieces. We now FINALLY have a Batman that exists in the same world as Superman and the Justice League and one that is totally a comic accurate version of the character and they just want to scrap it?

My hope is that Matt Reeves didn't elaborate enough or he was misquoted or something and that what he really means is that The Batman DOES take place IN the DCEU but its not a crucial film in the sense that it will effect any further continuity or be effected by any preexisting continuity. Take for example the Wonder Woman film, it exists in the DCEU but its definitely its own self contained story. Act like the comics in the sense that ok Batman was just with the League battling fucking Darkseid last week but now he's in Gotham moving on to his next case in his own world. DC seems to think that with a shared universe they have to reference or include other characters the entire time. No you don't. Let The Batman be in the universe but let it tell its own story that won't effect other characters or DCEU's large scale continuity, just the history of their version of Batman. That is all. This to be honest sounds more realistic BUT with all these rumours and all this bullshit surrounding DC Films of late I wouldn't be surprised at them doing a new version of Batman, but I would absolutely hate this idea. I want to see Ben Affleck in the role for as long as possible. We've seen him in BvS, a cameo in SS, and will see him in JL. I hope to see him in JL2 (which he is contracted for) as well as a solo film. It would be nice if he stays on for a solo trilogy but its bad enough there's so much doubt for him even doing the one film, three films is just wishful thinking at this point. As of now we can just speculate but once its officially 110% confirmed Affleck is starring and the cameras start rolling we will know the future of Batman films and his involvement in the DCEU.

UPDATE ON THE BATMAN

Ok thank God they're doing something right. Matt Reeves clarifies that The Batman is indeed set in the DCEU and supposedly still starring Ben Affleck (please stay Ben!) it will just be "stand alone" in the sense that it will not have cameos by other DC characters outside the Batman mythos, no references to previous films or world building setting up future DC films. This is great. Think of it as Guardians of the Galaxy, its standalone in the sense that its unaffected by the other Marvel films but set in the same cinematic universe. Also very pleased that Matt Reeves is not letting them use The Batman as a scapegoat to set up future films and teases it will be its own film(/film series?).

Bottom line on the Batman, keep Ben Affleck, no matter what the cost! If he wants to leave thats a pity, they should have informed him at the beginning this is long term, we're building a shared universe you will be the Robert Downey Jr. of this with many films and cameo appearances. A recast would be too distracting and outright frustrating because lets face it they're not just going to abandon Batman if Ben leaves. In a perfect world I'd love it if when its all said and done he was Batman for BvS, his SS cameo, JL1,2 (and 3? a trilogy?) and a Batman trilogy with cameos in Nightwing and Batgirl but that is just wishful thinking. So many rumours and only like 3 of those films I've just mentioned have actually happened.

WHAT THEY SHOULD DO

I love the DC characters, and read a lot of DC comics. A common running gag with my friends is that I should run DC Films (wouldn't that be nice), so here is my take on what they "should do."

RELEASE SLATE

DC is apparently trying to fast track films such as Suicide Squad 2, JL Dark, Gotham City Sirens etc. as mentioned earlier. Its ambitious to think of doing films like this but that to me should be long term planning and goals for the future. But for now the key goal: get everyone on board with the DCEU, set up the main characters so that everybody holds an attachment to them. Focus on those core characters. Following Aquaman (and I guess Shazam, since that is the next film to go into production) they are at a perfect stage to split off the League, do their solo outings all before assembling them again for a JL sequel and THEN once your brand and characters are a hit worry about your spinoffs like Nightwing, Batgirl, Gotham City Sirens, Black Adam, Justice League Dark etc. if you can't even get your core big name characters on screen how the hell can you be trusted to do these stories that only a small market is actually asking to see on the big screen. I would focus major efforts on that Flashpoint/The Flash movie they announced at comic con, the Green Lantern Corps movie, Man of Steel 2 which NEEDS to happen sooner rather than later (its Superman for crying out loud how is this film not a priority?) and The Batman (as a DCEU FILM with Ben Affleck!). After these films are all released this DCEU 2.0 will kind of mirror Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 1, all solo films out, the audience knows their heroes, who they are and has an attachment to them even more than they did before thus PERFECT time to unite them again for Justice League 2 Which we all know is inevitable with or without Zack Snyder. I loved Snyder's vision with MoS and BvS but I realize a lot of people didn't but hey at least when he created and was overseeing the DCEU he had a planned sequence of events: Man of Steel, Batman v Superman- Dawn of Justice, Suicide Squad, Wonder Woman, Justice League, The Flash, Aquaman, Shazam, Justice League 2, Green Lantern Corps, Cyborg. Now with the announcement of how many new films the only one out of those films to actually be currently filming/completely ready to go is Aquaman and that is sad.

I am not worried about Wonder Woman 2, Patty Jenkins did an outstanding job with the first film so I already know that the sequel is in excellent hands and may be excused from the convoluted mess known as DC Films.

The Batman: I'll discuss this more later on but everyone is begging to see Ben Affleck's solo run as Bruce Wayne, Batman has become DC's flagship character, this movie needs to take THE priority right now. I wouldn't mind seeing Jared Leto's Joker return but as a support villain. Let them adapt villains that their A. haven't been on the big screen yet (Court of Owls, Hush, Deathstroke, Red Hood) or B. ones that Nolan didn't do (Riddler!)

Flashpoint: some say its way too early to adapt this storyline but this time I disagree. It never made sense to me why in the comics Barry Allen after his 20+ years as the Flash would make a stupid mistake such as running back through time to save his mom when he knows the fragility of the timeline and potential consequences. A young Barry Allen doing this makes perfect sense. The TV show loosely did it but on the big screen we can see Flashpoint Batman and Joker, Aquaman and Wonder Woman and plus a big screen version of Eobard Thawne (MICHAEL C. HALL is the perfect choice!) One thing fans are insisting but I guarantee its not true is that Flashpoint will "change" the DCEU. It won't change anything, 1. the mainstream audience would not understand this, plus it would be counterproductive to change things in a universe they built, just improve don't erase this isn't comics where you can just retcon major events and be ok with it. Its too soon to do a X-Men Days of Future Past erase. 2. The only reason the comic Flashpoint "changed" things was because it was convenient for them, convenient in the sense that they were rebooting their entire line so why not make this the reason why everything changes. Barry could just as easily have ran back to the regular timeline with minimal to no changes at all (see Flash tv series) but Geoff Johns and the DC guys used this as the reason for the New 52. Which is great but on film I'm telling you they should not try this soft reboot thing.

Green Lantern Corps: 2011's Green Lantern film starring Ryan Reynolds left a lot to be desired. Its not a good movie. It showed definite potential, Huge actually. But over reliance on goofy/gimmicky creations with his ring, a narrative that just wasn't intriguing or even serious enough and too much CGI that didn't look right caused that film to collapse. For GLC, put Geoff Johns in charge. No one gets the character like him, he wrote a spectacular comic run on the character for years give him creative control, hell let him write the screenplay! Fans are proving they are willing to forgive the sins of the past they just want to see GL back on the big screen, most are even upset he is not with the League. Prioritize GL one of DC's flagship characters, and get it right. Take it for the most part off Earth, focus on their galactic missions and focus on the Corps itself. Show Hal Jordan as the main character and LEAD, but also introduce us to John Stewart or Kyle Rainer or one of the other main Lanterns.

Man of Steel 2/Superman Sequel: I can't stress this enough. WE NEED ANOTHER SUPERMAN FILM. I LOVED Man of Steel and I LOVED BvS. I can't wait to see Superman's return in JL, but frankly Superman is DC, and he is loooooooong overdue for his own solo film series. This needs to be a priority. A Superman sequel, a lighter, more optimistic traditional Superman style film set in the DCEU with Cavill, Amy Adams reprising their roles along with Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor as a support antagonist (I'll get to him later, you probably won't like me but I think he's great). We need Brainiac as the villain, or Parasite or a serious non-gimmicky comedic relief version of Bizarro (perhaps an identical Superman look a like that is straight up evil?) There is so much potential for a Superman sequel its not even funny I can't believe this isn't a priority for the studio right now. Man of Steel and BvS launched the DCEU, the world needs more Superman. Love Henry Cavill in the role (He is my favourite Superman) but he really needs a chance to shine and take centre stage.

Cyborg: I'll be honest, my comic knowledge on Cyborg is limited. I only really know much about his New 52 version which is where this universe is taking its inspiration from. Does Cyborg work as a solo character? I know he works well as JL member or Teen Titans member? A solo film while despite being announced a few years back remains to be seen. If the audience is responsive to his role in JL and his eventual role in Flashpoint (its going to happen no need to speculate here he has a significant role in the Flashpoint comic) he may get a solo film. My question is, is he strong enough to carry his own franchise? or will be be DC's version of Hulk, (save him for the Avengers film because Incredible Hulk didn't launch a solo film series as planned).

Following getting the flagship characters established and letting the audience develop their attachments to these characters THEN worry about your spinoffs, sequels, villains and secondary characters getting solo films. THEN is when you can do your Batgirl and Nightwing films! (After Batman and his history/family is established), THEN you can do your Justice League Dark, and Gotham City Sirens once your main universe is built and then they can work towards a Justice League sequel, they don't need to rush another JL team up, the League is established, give them their solo outings before we get into the inevitable face off with Darkseid for JL2. I don't know, I'm ranting at this point it just doesn't make sense to me that they're focusing so much on secondary character film development rather than DC's main attractions. That would have been like Marvel developing Ant-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy before fully fleshing out main draws like Captain America, Iron Man or Thor.

DON'T "NERF" ESTABLISHED CHARACTERS/DON'T BE COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE:

I know, I know, not everyone is happy with the DCEU versions of The Joker and Lex Luthor. But saying you "don't want Leto/Eisenberg back" is just your own wishful thinking. They'll be back, get used to it. How can you have a long term shared cinematic universe without Batman and Superman's arch nemesis'? Give them the opportunity to grow into the characters you love.

Lex Luthor: To me Eisenberg is my favourite DCEU villain so far. He was a unique blend of generations of different versions of Lex Luthor, Golden Age mad scientist + modern age corrupt billionaire with endless political pull and money + the demeanour, mannerisms and appearance of young Lex Luthor from Mark Waid's Superman Birthright + a modernized silicon valley tech billionaire twist of the 21st century. He might have acted a bit wacky but his dialogue, the way he spoke in philosophical terms is very Luthor-esque, his very complicated plot, goals and ambitions are the most accurate Lex Luthor type plot we've ever seen in live action ever. BvS was Luthor's origin. When we see him next I truly believe after a stretch in Arkham after seeing the horrors their and potential abuse he will undergo physically and psychologically he will change his demeaner, he will be more calm, collected and the traditional Lex we all know. He will be humiliated by his defeat and upset that the public embraced Superman over him and didn't see that him "killing the alien is doing the world a favour and thus protecting/saving them" type thing will just piss him off. Hell I even came up with the idea that he will continue to shave his head as a reminder of his defeat, humiliation and imprisonment to keep going and not stop until he accomplishes his mission, almost as a cleanse, a new man reborn, the death of Alexander Luthor Jr. and the birth of Lex Luthor. Its been established in comics (and Smallville) Lex loved his hair so why wouldn't he just grow it back? this is why.

It drives me up the wall when people say "he's not Lex he's Lex Jr." or "he isn't the real Lex, he's coming later." Dude, he IS Lex. It would be completely counter productive to build him up in BvS as this big bad only to go NOPE his dad is still alive he is the "Real" Lex. Lex Sr. has no bone to pick with Superman, Jr. does. Plus Jr. hated his father and in marketing its been established that he is dead. I know some say well in the comics Lex didn't inherit his company he built it himself, well Lex Jr. sure inherited his father's company but it was an "aging machinery company" and Lex Jr.'s brilliant mind flipped it into the monster tech giant, the LexCorp of the comics. Plus Lex Sr. is said to have hailed from Germany, not the accurate Lex growing up in Suicide Slums of Metropolis right? Face it things change, the addition of "JR." to his name is simply to add character + they wanted to bring in that Smallville father and son conflict Lex had with Lionel. Why rename Lionel Lex Sr.? simply A. Lex's father in the comics never had a name until Smallville came up with Lionel and the comics just ran with that, B. you'd need to insert dialogue of Lex inheriting LuthorCorp and having to rename the company blah blah its just too much to explain. Lexcorp, Lex and Lex Jr. Plus it makes it all the more simple and poetic in the father-son battle. Not only did the better Luthor win, the better Lex Luthor won their chess game (I am speculating, I have a feeling Jr. killed Sr.). So to answer the question some people have Lex Jr. is the "Real" Lex Luthor, "real" as in HE is Superman's arch nemesis.

Would it be cool to see Bryan Cranston as Lex Sr? sure, of course it would! He faked his death or Lex JR. took his money and sent his ass to wherever but his father over the years regained his political connections quietly and money, the possibilities are there. But later, if it all. Right now we have our Lex Luthor, establish him, build him, make the audience who are unsure or don't like him get behind him as a character/villain, let him grow into the traditional Lex. As for the rumours of him being CUT from Justice League, well I think its bogus but I really hope its not true. Even if its just a 1 scene appearance. Luthor is the whole reason the League started, he killed Superman and he himself summoned Stepphenwolf to Earth, he gained knowledge from the Kryptonian scout ship, he knows something. We need to have a scene of Batman confronting him asking him for what he knows. Maybe he will help stop the coming Apocalypse, maybe he will ask for a pardon and reclaim LexCorp? maybe he will escape and be a fugitive for a future Superman movie? who knows but I feel he needs to be in JL, like I said he's the reason for the League's formation, Superman's death and Steppenwolf's arrival you can't just ignore him. And I really hope if he is cut its NOT because the people don't like him, you can't just ignore Superman's arch nemesis, as I've stated, let the character grow.

The Joker: I liked what I've seen of him in Suicide Squad, but frankly I didn't see enough to make a definitive opinion. Not a fan of the tattooed appearance but I understand you have to go left field to avoid the comparison to Jack Nicholson if he had the traditional appearance or the comparison to Heath Ledger's definitive performance...which inevitably and ironically still did happen (that was just unavoidable). Let this Joker who has had history with Batman for 20 years face off with him. Show the scene where he kills Robin, talk about how he is the terror of Gotham and a complete psychopath. Don't make him a gimmick like this Joker and Harley Quinn movie I feel is starting to do. Jared Leto is a talented actor I believe he really CAN make the role his own and be a great Joker, but just let him be great. Give him good material.

Also please don't make him Jason Todd and have a real Joker be out there somewhere. Like sure it would be cool but then we'd never get Red Hood, and honestly the only one who would really like this Robin turned psycho Joker aspect would be Frank Miller (see The Dark Knight Strikes Again...actually don't). If they can figure out a clean way to make this Jason Todd and have him transition to Red Hood without feeling forced, fine whatever, but I really don't want them nerfing it saying "Ha gotcha! he's NOT the Joker, He is! (insert new actor in traditional Joker wardrobe)" Like I've stated, don't be counter productive. He is your Joker, people need to deal with it, and on DC's end do something that will make him more appealing then, don't just ignore him/get rid of him.

BOTTOM LINE

Sometimes it really seems like DC is throwing everything it can think of at the wall and just seeing what sticks. Maybe they have a plan, but honestly we don't know about it. Marvel has a plan and they constantly keep their audiences informed over what is happening. DCEU HAD a plan, but that has been warped, changed and manipulated so many times nobody knows what is going on. I doubt even they know for certain. Geoff Johns is a comic book genius, with him in charge it makes me rest easier BUT thats the thing, comics are different than films, in the comics you can have your Black Adam solo story or a Joker and Harley Quinn story but on film you have to ask yourself is it necessary? If so how do you make it work? and is it too soon? he has to find that balance between comics and films. I really hope they figure it out, I love DC Comics and I love these characters. I love Marvel too but I don't need to rant about them, they're doing their own thing and they're doing it right. Doesn't mean DC has to do what they do but at least have a plan and do it right. There's nothing more I'd like to see than a successful shared DC cinematic universe.

I understand this is a long read but if you feel the same about DC please share this post!

RANT: BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE- ULTIMATE EDITION. Zack Snyder's Masterpiece and Why Its the Next "Blade Runner"

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sun, 20 Nov 2016 19:49:00 +0000

(This is a rant article so don't bother being grammar police here..)

Ok, lets start this off, I know I may be attacked for making a comparison between such a divisive film and a film regarded as a sci fi classic....but here's the catch, Blade Runner was not always considered a classic. In fact it was blasted upon release until people seen the director's cut. Sounds familiar right?

Batman v Superman divided fans and was destroyed by critics...the theatrical cut that is. The Ultimate Edition is a different story. Reviews for Ultimate Edition vs Theatrical are night and day. Critics/reviewers, fans who hated/disliked the original cut changed their minds and even some who enjoyed it seemed to enjoy it more. I enjoyed the theatrical cut, it was a comic book movie if I've ever seen one but that Ultimate edition was just a completely different experience. In my opinion had WB not screwed Zack Snyder (again might I add) it would have been hailed as his masterpiece, reviews would have been better (obviously just take a look at these Ultimate edition reviews) and would have ultimately made more money! Yep WB clearly has no business sense....they want to maximize profits, so what is their logic "hmm lets greenlight a 3 hour script/story but then when we get nervous we just chop the shit outta this film leaving threads dangling and a sloppy film but oh well fuck it we'll get more money off a shorter film anyways, right?" WRONG! Just because the film was longer that doesn't mean jack shit, because a better quality film (Ultimate), a better overall film with a flowing story, less choppiness and more fleshed out characters and subplots would have lead to better reviews and better word of mouth and that leads to more people wanting to go see the movie and even more repeat viewership which HEY OMG that means more money...I mean seriously what morons are running this studio? even so with such a divisive film to make over $873 mill is impressive, only 47 films in movie history have made more so to call its financial returns a "disappointment" is just people being annoying and trying to scrutinize the film further because it already had negativity surrounding it...that was seriously annoying, everybody all of the sudden was an accountant crunching numbers and determining what is a "success" and what "Wasn't." (Btw all of the Marvel cinematic universe films have received good reviews and only 3 have crossed the billion point..and this film made more than Iron Man, Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America, Thor 2, Captain America 2 [Marvel's best by the way], Guardians of the Galaxy, and Ant-Man....yet nobody calls those failures? why? because they don't have the negative air of bad reviews surrounding it so people ignore this little statistic...not my argument but just a fact I wanted to point out).

And even IF the UE didn't make as much money because it was "long" (wouldn't have happened but lets just say if), you made a better movie...your reviews are better, the film is more appreciated. Not to sound like a hipster or anything I mean yes I understand the film industry you want to make money but wouldn't you want to please your audience first and foremost? Do they know how many people turned their back on the DCEU, Zack Snyder and future Batman/Superman films because they didn't like what they saw, or some people are too stupid to form their own opinion without media influence such as rotten tomatoes and just go with the flow and bandwagons and didn't even actually see the film they just heard it "sucks" so now they're saying it too? (oh and by the way a 27% on RT does not mean a film is "27% good" its an aggregated score..just saying). I feel bad for Zack Snyder because after the Ultimate edition people began apologizing and realizing wow he actually crafted a great, 3 hour epic superhero film. The guy is a visionary, and a great director, especially for comic films (I can argue why Man of Steel and Watchmen are fantastic too!) he planned this whole universe on a large scale and because the studio got greedy by wanting to have more show times by shortening the length they compromised the film and put themselves in massive trouble. They did that with Watchmen also...and like BvS, Watchmen's director's cut is MUCH better and has received a cult following and a better reception. (Never understood people who didn't like Watchmen, save for the ending it was the most accurate comic film ever adapted, story wise, characters etc.) The Ultimate Edition would have pleased audiences and critics much more than the theatrical and ratings would have been better. Not a perfect film (but what is?), but this would have gone over much better.

Now where does Blade Runner come into play? Blade Runner upon release was slammed by critics and audiences for various reasons, but on home media with Directors cuts and Final Cuts people were able to see the version of the film director Ridley Scott originally had planned and envisioned before studio cuts and edits for whatever reasons. The beauty of home media is that when there's these alternative, definitive, "should have been" cuts the studio basically knows they fucked up and tend to market the shit out of these true editions with minimal home releases of the theatrical version. Now with Blade Runner fast forward to 2016, anyone who has discovered this film since the 90's onward have they seen the original cut? probably not. They've most likely seen the superior director's or Final cut that have rave reviews. Word of mouth spreads, the film develops cult following, years later people who didn't watch the movie because they "heard it was bad" give it a shot (watching the director's cut) and go "hey wow this is actually awesome." Eventually in the years to come no one has seen the theatrical anymore...only the better one. It happened to Blade Runner and I'm a firm believer that Batman v Superman will fall into this category. Now that it is on digital and blu ray when people go to tune in they're more probable than not, going to see the UE and have a much better chance of liking the film with the only potential negativity is "its too long" but if you really appreciate cinema, no matter the genre, you can't put a limit on length for a film to get its story and message across because you get bored or are pressed for time.

Like Blade Runner I believe Batman v Superman is a film that has some insightful messages, fantastic performances, an in depth and dark story with some great dialogue and effects and definitely a movie that was ahead of its time but not appreciated at release. Maybe because we currently live in a post Christopher Nolan Batman Trilogy world that Marvel has now monopolized with 2-3 films a year that are more lighthearted, linear, family friendly and action packed popcorn flicks that people have grown accustomed to that and think "hey all superhero films should be like this except TDK Trilogy because Nolan turned a superhero into an epic film trilogy." Now I love Marvel, do NOT get me wrong. They've done everything RIGHT, their Cinematic Universe is admirable and the stuff of legend...DC could only hope and dream to build something like this. But I think it is because of some Marvel bias and the frequency of their films that it may have lead to the audience rejecting Zack Snyder's more mythological epic superhero film...but then again that was the inferior Theatrical cut (ahem, WB) so we can only assume at this point. Hell I never understood DC vs Marvel fan wars...I love them both and for different reasons. Who says you have to choose? and for what reason? Sure you can have a preference but that doesn't mean you have to hate the other.

Bottom line I think BvS with the Ultimate Edition will have a similar cycle as Blade Runner. A cycle of years and decades and viewership of a true cut the director envisioned to change perspective of audiences and a perspective that'll grab the attention of newer audiences as changes in demand of what the audience wants in a hero film changes over time. I'm not saying everybody will like the Ultimate, in fact some opinions haven't changed. Like if you're someone who was upset over certain characterizations well perhaps it won't be a big improvement but thats just your own preference, doesn't necessarily take away from film quality.

I've had faith in Zack Snyder since Man of Steel. I loved Man of Steel, I enjoyed BvS and I loved and am a HUGE fan of the BvS Ultimate Edition, I really hope with Justice League the studio does not interfere as much or start making cuts for the wrong reasons and ultimately compromise another film...yeah forgot to mention they did that with Suicide Squad too. Snyder's vision is great and with Geoff Johns helping him steer the ship right now for the rest of the DCEU I think we are in good hands, I think the audience and critics will respond better to JL and hopefully be more accepting of the change in tone. Yes, the tone has changed for JL, its apparently more linear and less dark and gritty. I like dark gritty seriousness to my comic films but maybe thats just the Batman fan in me but for the BvS particular story I always felt it needed to be, but now that that story happened perhaps it is time for some lightness.

Spider-Man Movie Title Announced!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 22:28:00 +0000

It was only over a year ago that it was announced Sony's plans for "The Amazing Spider-Man 3" were scrapped and that Andrew Garfield along with it was kicked to the curb in favour of a (2nd) Spider-Man reboot only this time within the continuity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe...finally giving fans what they want, to see Spidey fight alongside the Avengers. Not too many months later Tom Holland was announced as being the actor would would bring Spidey to life in his new universe.

It has been confirmed that the title for the new film which is slated for a 2017 release will be titled: "Spider-Man: Homecoming." Funny...a play on words referring to the fact that Spidey is home! at Marvel! where he belongs! While Sony still technically owns the film rights and marketing and advertising rights etc. it seems that Marvel will have creative control (despite what Sony camp may wish you to think) and that they are going to give us the Spidey we have always wanted. But before Spidey gets his solo flick we will see Holland's Spider-Man debut next month in the much anticipated Captain America: Civil War, which already has enthusiastic responses from fans and critics who have been able to get a prescreening (lucky bastards)....and from what I have read, Spidey is much more than a cameo but an actual role AND he is a scene stealer with Holland doing the role justice.

A small part of me wanted to see a 3rd Amazing Spider-Man movie just to wrap up that series and I really enjoyed Garfield as Spider-Man but scrapping the series was just for the best. The Amazing Spider-Man movies were not perfect, in fact they were utterly forgettable. Just nothing really unique to set them apart from the other string of successful hero flicks in recent years. Garfield was great and the story was pretty good. I even liked 2 better than 1...but they're both films that had problems. 2 had too much going on and some unnecessary story threads while 1 the climax and villain didn't do it for me, I liked the new modern revamped origin BUT it was unnecessary and not as powerful as the 2002 film...and maybe it was simply for the fact that the original version was only a mere 10 years earlier, its still fresh. It wasn't like Superman's origin in the 1978 film and then the revamp in Man of Steel in 2013, that was great, needed and awesome...this just felt like was there a point to this? I think Marvel knows this too as they confirmed that with Spidey appearing in Civil War as Spider-Man and then this film, he is already established and that no origin story is needed or necessary...even more good news!

Holland as Spider-Man in Captain America: Civil War

Oh and one last bit of news, Michael Keaton (yes the original Batman!) is reportedly in negotiations to sign onto a villain role for Spider-Man: Homecoming! Looks like Marvel is firing back at DC for signing JK Simmons (J Jonah Jameson) as Commissioner Gordon in the DCEU....nah I'm just kidding but nonetheless awesome! Keaton is a great actor I wonder who he will be portraying.

New Suicide Squad Trailer Thoughts

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Wed, 13 Apr 2016 22:09:00 +0000

I'm a bit late but recently they just dropped a new Suicide Squad trailer this week and all I have to say is "wow" and "I can't fuckin wait for this movie!" I really like how the trailer shows the tone this film will have. Its basically WB/DC's retaliation to those lashing out at Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice's ultra dark and serious tone. This film looks to be quite different. While maintaining the grimy-ness (is that a word? fuck it) of the fact that these are notorious supervillains and serial killers doing a deep cover, black ops government job but also that it can have moments of comedy and ultimately have some fun with it. If they can do that without replicating Marvel and be different and not be forced then yeah I am game and 100% down with it! And lets not forget this is coming from me, someone who absolutely loves and admires the tone and style of the ultra grim Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, check out my review I'll tell you all about why that was necessary...anyhow...

The Squad looks great, I can't wait to see Will Smith as Deadshot, Killer Croc looks scary af and Margot Robbie....OH MY GOD she is sexy as all hell...she will knock the role of Harley Quinn out of the park, I really can't wait to see that performance. Harley is a character I have wanted to see on the big screen for quite some time and I am very excited to see her finally on the big screen and Robbie definitely has the acting chops to do it properly! I'm super excited to see her interact with her (ex?) boyfriend The Joker...

which brings us to the main event...Mr. J himself. Jared Leto looks spectacular as The Joker. Heath Ledger's Joker was always going to be a tough act to follow. Ledger's performance is in a Academy Award Winning role and one that I believe to be one of the greatest performances in film history and especially the last decade. But that doesn't mean Leto can't make it his own. Comparisons are inevitable but based on everything I have seen he will be amazing, in a very different way. Some lashed out at the tattoos but honestly you have to go different or else to much sameness would be a Heath Ledger imitation. Leto's Joker looks psychotic, and unpredictable I can't wait.

Another huge thing this trailer shows is that Batman himself (yes Batfleck!) will indeed be in the movie but for what seems like much more than a cameo. It seems Batman will have actually a few scenes, action sequences even. We see the Batmobile, we see the Batman on top of The Joker and Harley's car and we see Batman dive after Harley into a body of water along with walking out with her body. Now if that is all is unknown. I have a feeling he will have a larger role, and I love that its not being promoted much because the last thing you need to do is misinform the audience that this is a Batman film when its NOT! he is simply in it chasing his arch enemy. Which brings me to this...I am absolutely thrilled to see Batman and Joker interract for a few reasons 1. Affleck was awesome, and now I can't wait to see Leto as Mr. J and 2. This Batman and Joker have history! Its not their first encounter, not even close. This is a Joker who has terrorized Gotham and Batman for sometime and has even killed Robin! (or is he Robin? according to some fan theories...which I myself do not believe but am welcoming of the idea).

This trailer does not give much away which is great. All we know is bad guys recruited by the government to do unnamed task. Hell we don't even know what The Joker has to do with any of this! I am intrigued and I can't wait to see the DC Extended Universe expand even larger this time with the focus being on the villains...and of course more Batman!

Justice League Begins Filming Today!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 23:52:00 +0000

Today is the day! Zack Snyder begins filming on one of the most hyped films of next year, the Justice League. Ben Affleck (Batman) has located his family out there temporarily while Henry Cavill (Superman), Ray Fisher (Cyborg), Jason Momoa (Aquaman) were all spotted hanging out to celebrate the initiation of filming this weekend.

I'm very happy that WB is not flinching on the negative bullshit surrounding Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice from professional film critics. Audiences are enjoying the film and the diehards are loving it. Despite negativity WB is still keeping the film on track with Zack Snyder continuing his vision of a larger universe expansion with these heroes. Although Zack will have help, WB execs will be helping with a more "hands on role" according to sources.

Even though the die hards like myself got the film we always wanted with Batman v Superman, an in depth dark/gritty story setting up their first encounter. Although critics and some of the general audience have gotten pretty used to more watered down superhero flicks with a relatively straight forward story and tons of action, "popcorn flix" (Marvel's formula....which works for them! Don't get me wrong I love the Marvel films but DC needs to differentiate), even though screenwriter Chris Terrio has stated Justice League will have a lighter tone than BvS, reports today are saying the film will be more audience friendly and a "crowd pleaser" which likely will feature more action, a "lighter" story and perhaps a more straight forward plot so it could be spelled out for those who didn't get BvS...(I mean really guys? its not that difficult). Suicide Squad recently dropped a new trailer (Which looks spectacular by the way!) and it seems they're a film that is able to balance out a very mature and dark theme of a bunch of crazed killers/serial killers (Joker) gone wild and the presence of the Batman which requires a dark setting. If Snyder can replicate what Ayer is doing with Suicide Squad and balance light and dark (although JL shouldn't be as comedic) then I'm all for it and not worried whatsoever. I have faith in Snyder and his vision for our heroes, 2 films into the DCEU I've been blown away and I can't wait to see the Justice League. But with filming just starting today we have over a year to go. Next up is Suicide Squad in August and Wonder Woman in 2017.

What I Would Like To See In Zack Snyder's Justice League Film

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 19:00:00 +0000

SPOILERS AHEAD, YOU'VE BEEN WARNED!

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is currently making a killing at the box office! Despite what the skeptics, haters and critics are saying about a drop (when a film opens to $680mill+ in only 10 days, a drop is inevitable, very few films have that strong of an opening week and few days...) Justice League: Part One begins filming April 11 directed once again by the mastermind behind the entire DC Extended Universe, Zack Snyder.

I have compiled here what we can expect to see next whether it be in Justice League or future DCEU instalments:

1. CONSEQUENCES
The ending of Batman v Superman was pretty groundbreaking as they adapted The Death of Superman story arc. The Justice League film must show the aftermath of this...a world in mourning, mourning the hero who saved them twice now from a large scale threat. One who was an outsider but chose to live amongst, embrace and save his adopted home of Earth. I would like to see the repercussions such as a crime wave in Metropolis due to Superman's absence or some sort of anarchy....as well as having the government kick themselves and feel like quite the bunch of assholes for even questioning the guy in the first place now that he's dead. Let the gov. be as hypocritical as they usually are and refer to Superman as their hero and saviour even though in the last film they pretty much were on the fence about condemning him.

With Superman's death I would also like to see where this leads Lex Luthor. Luthor as you know is now sitting in a cell now head-shaven due to his actions in BvS. I would like Lex to think he is successful in his attempt at destroying his adversary BUT be angry at the fact that he was publicly humiliated, arrested and "fallen from grace" from being one of the most successful and richest men in the world to a convicted felon. With Darkseid coming and Lex knowing about the threat it would be great for him to do some sort of Hannibal Lecter "quid pro quo" with Batman and the League, something along the lines of "i'll help you stop Darkseid but in return I want a pardon/freedom as well as LexCorp and my assets unfrozen and returned to me." type of thing, bottom line I want Lex out, he needs to once again pose a threat to Superman and the League in the future whether it be as a corrupt business man again with LexCorp or now living underground as a wanted man and a mad scientist.

2. Initiation

It will be very interesting to see Batman and Wonder Woman assemble the League. I can see them butting heads in their different styles and views of justice and the world, as well as not getting along immediately with the likes of a more comedic and less serious person in The Flash or Cyborg and especially Wonder Woman and Aquaman not hitting it off right away. Comic history shows Diana and Arthur hate each other due to conflict with the Amazons and the Atlanteans, things such as this need to be addressed to show the history of meta humans before the likes of Superman walking the Earth.

3. Resurrection
We all know Superman is resurrecting but it CAN'T be immediately. His return needs to be hyped, it needs to be big and lavish, inspiring and full of hope. Superman needs to return when the chips are down and the League is just about ready to be defeated by Darkseid and Superman triumphantly returns to save his team and home world with all eyes on him but only now less grim and even more powerful. I'm not saying it should be at the end of the movie but it needs to be at least mid or past midway through the movie. His death in BvS needs to have a lasting impact and show that creatively the minds behind the films aren't afraid and willing to right away go back on this bold action plot point they established. In the comics Superman has been dead for a year. It needs to be addressed as such (or more in the film) but also with the film starting let us wait with anticipation for the Man of Steel to rise from the grave.

4. Tone
"The night is darkest before the dawn." BvS was the Dawn of justice and the night truly was darkest. But the dawn arrived and the League will assemble. I am someone who loved the tone of BvS and thinks it was perfectly executed to be a real world what if scenario if these events were to occur. But now this film, with the battle over and a pending Superman resurrection as well as the arrival of the most evil of the evils in the DC universe, Darkseid there needs to be light, that light is the Justice League. That light is in Flash, Cyborg, Aquaman, Wonder Woman and most importantly Superman when he returns from the grave. Although please for the love of God DO NOT lighten up Batman. We got that dark, gruff and brutal badass Frank Miller style Batman in Ben Affleck's performance, the film can be lighter but not too light, and you can have light characters but when Batman is on screen or doing his thing they better damn well make sure its dark af and that he's serious and a total vigilante through and through. Whether they want to darken the camera hue when he's on screen or darker music too that works just Batman has to has to has to stay as a dark character. Just as I stated above Superman now needs to be acknowledged as that shining symbol of hope, and as I said this film needs to and will be lightER I don't think they need to go full Marvel light (God I hope not), DC is known for the edginess and dark tales, the story still needs to be serious and have a darkness to it (Especially if both Batman AND Darkseid are in the film for crying out loud!) For the first 2 films I understand in a real world context he wouldn't be right away, which is fine. But now that he has died saving the world from a HUGE threat twice and will return to save it again from its biggest I think now we will get that experienced finally confident Superman that people seem to have longed for since the Chris Reeve days. (On a side note though, if you actually read comics you will know Superman is the most insecure hero out of them all, he is not like the Reeve films being all duhduhduhDUH Superman is here to save the day! he has inner conflicts, he is very alone and he can have an edge, especially in the modern context).

5. Darkseid
It seems all fingers seem to be pointing to Darkseid and the New Gods arriving in the DCEU for the Justice League film, and it only makes sense. There's no better way to unite the League than a threat so evil and so grand. Darkseid needs to A look good, and have some great CGI behind him. B he needs to be all powerful, fierce and intimidating with a huge screen presence, a menacing figure, this guy is like the Emperor Palaptine of the DC universe only with more of a Darth Vader vibe in terms of intimidation and badassery. C He needs to ALMOST win and then finally get his ass beat by Superman. I don't know if they are going to do more of a Justice League: Origin New 52 style Darkseid story or more of a Final Crisis story with a host vessel and the takeover of human minds and bodies similar to what Smallville did in the final season, but the threat needs to be grand and something different.

Bottom line this film needs to inspire Hope and balance light and dark amongst the proper characters. The Justice League's assembly needs to be grand, inspiring and something comic dreams are made out of, similar to the first time the Avengers are shown all together in Manhattan at the climax of their film. And also they need to build a close friendship between Batman and Superman amongst the conclusion of the film. Zack Snyder is a big comic fan and respects the source material. In his two films he brought scenes I NEVER thought I would ever see on the big screen and executed it perfectly. He no doubt will do the film and its characters justice, he is very good at pleasing the niche of the die hard comic readers, I just hope that this film will be able to please the general/casual audience this time around also BUT without having to compromise the nature of DC comics canon, continuity, character history and accuracy.

Batman v Superman Is A Box Office Success Despite Drop

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:35:00 +0000

This week there has been nothing but bad word of mouth regarding a 60 something % drop in sales of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Some are calling this film a "box office disappointment"......what kind of stupid, idiotic, fucked up world do we live in if a movie that crosses $700 Million worldwide in under 3 weeks is considered a "failure?"

In just under 3 weeks that film has grossed more money than the majority of films make in their entire run of months and months on a silver screen. Perhaps its the greed, people expecting it to cross $1 Billion, while everything right now is pure speculation, it might cross that mark, it might not who knows. It hasn't even sat in the theatres for a month and it is only 300K away...impressive by any standards..I mean seriously who deems these films "successes" or "failures?"

Had this film been a positive critical darling like Star Wars: The Force Awakens, we wouldn't be hearing about the negativity such as inevitable drops in sales after having a monster opening week. We would see articles about repeat business from fans and audiences....which oh wait yes I have seen articles regarding this factor when it comes to Batman v Superman, the difference is, they are overshadowed by the negativity that has surrounded this film from the get go. Ok, so let me get this straight, a drop in sales after an enormous opening weekend is a "failure" do people not realize The Dark Knight, The Dark Knight Rises and many other films dropped after opening weekend in sales? Its inevitable. The difference again is those are films that are overwhelmingly positively received. This film on the other hand has such strong haters and people against it that they just won't let it have its day even if its at the box office and not review wise....audiences are liking the film regardless of IMDb, rotten tomatoes audience polls or cinema score or whatever its called. Look at the statistics in ratings, when you have x amount of people voting a 1/10 for a film that most certainly is NOT a 1/10 no matter how disappointed you were, thats where something personal comes into play. I don't know if its rival fanboys trying to destroy the hopes and future of the DCEU or people who have been skeptics since the beginning and are now finally able to have a field day and pick the movie apart or if its people just joining the hate bandwagon. Go on social media, read people's opinions, the people who enjoyed the movie thoroughly enjoyed it. But this article is not about that....this is about people dubbing a $700 Mill and counting film a "failure." Lets break it down:

IRON MAN
the first film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and also a critical and fan success. Throughout its entire theatrical run it grossed only,
$585.2 Mill

THE INCREDIBLE HULK
When people talk about how great Marvel is nobody ever seems to mention this film. I mean its a good movie but utterly forgettable and its Box office numbers are less than impressive
$263.4 Million

THOR
the 3rd film in Phase 1 of the MCU
$449.3 Million

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER
$370.6 Million

THE AVENGERS
here is where people get mixed up in comparisons. completely different style films and not to mention 4 films of buildup and thus being the 5th film in their Cinematic universe while BvS is only second. Everyone welcomes the Avengers with open arms while everybody simply rolled their eyes at the idea of a DC universe specifically a Batman/Superman movie...never the less
$1.520 Billion, the MCU's most successful film to date

Look at this BvS in only under 3 weeks is more successful than each film in Phase 1 of the MCU aside from the Avengers. Yet everybody seems to like to make comparisons from a universe 2 films in, to a universe that is beginning their 3rd phase. Absolutely stupid. Iron Man, Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America...all considered box office successes.BvS has outgrossed all of their theatrical runs in only 3 weeks and its a "failure." Stupid I know. But lets get on with Phase 2

IRON MAN 3
$1.215 billion, another hugely successful Marvel movie BUT a film that has its haters too but for some reason not critically

THOR: THE DARK WORLD
$644.6 Million. In its entire run.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER
Oh the beloved film of the MCU, its crowning jewel in my opinion. Although it only made $714.4 Million through its whole run and this is with an ESTABLISHED hero who appeared in 2 previous films and won over the audience with those films. Yet this isn't considered a "box office failure" BvS is on the verge of outgrossing it and its only been 3 weeks (yes I feel the need to keep reminding everyone it has only been 3 weeks)

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY:
Maybe this is where people decided that all comic movies need to be fun, corny and family friendly. Which for this film is fine, its a great movie. But it DOESNT. ALWAYS. HAVE. TO. BE. LIKE. THAT. PEOPLE.
$773.3 million (BvS is awfully close here too)

AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON
$1.405 Billion, and here you wouldn't expect anything less there has been loads of buildup films and people so willing to accept another Avengers film. Even though its a great movie the first one is better, yet people decide not to recognize inconsistencies just because its a "fun" movie.

ANT-MAN
and we come to the last MCU release. Ant-Man. Another film that was great for what it was, a light hearted family friendly film that no doubt helped influence in the brainwashing of people into thinking all comic movies have to follow this tone. When you have a hero called Ant-Man and he shrinks I hope to God the movie is tongue in cheek because how do you take yourself seriously? But like I said for what it is its a great movie because it understands this movie CAN'T be serious....you have to know which ones need to be and which ones can't.
This film grossed $519.3 million. BvS has already beaten it.

BvS had a budget of $250 Million, it has now cracked $700 Mill worldwide, and it hasn't sat for a month! It has outgrossed 6 MCU films and on the verge of outgrossing another 3. Yet no MCU film is deemed a box office disappointment while BvS for some reason is.

Now people will argue, you have a movie with Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman, there's no excuse it shouldn't crack a billion. Partially true. BUT, when people simply won't let the film have a fighting chance whether it be vocal critics, haters or those biased against DC, no shit its going to drop. BUT the film has fought through a large number of these negativities and is a box office SUCCESS, the numbers don't lie. Drops are irrelevant when you open so strongly.... you can't go anywhere but down week by week. Maybe people compare this film to (the masterpiece in modern filmmaking and excellent) Dark Knight Trilogy, but those are different films. Those are films that cracked a Bill (2 of them at least) when they were universally loved and praised. This is a film that is a sequel to a film that was polarizing as it is (I loved Man of Steel) and despite bad critic reviews, and mixed word of mouth it STILL raked in $700 Mill, that is impressive. If that is a failure, then I don't know what is a success film wise anymore. I know WB isn't flinching at the bad reviews because they know they're swimming in piles of cash from this movie with more to come in the next weeks/months as the film is in cinemas. Call the film review/quality wise all you want, but numbers wise its a success, through and through.

Why the World Needs Man of Steel 2

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Mon, 04 Apr 2016 23:08:00 +0000

SPOILERS AHEAD FOR BATMAN V SUPERMAN

I'll defend the 2 intro films of the DCEU until the day I die! Man of Steel was the Superman film that I have been waiting for, one that understands the character's insecurities, his internal struggle and conflict. One that shows despite being an alien, Superman knows more what its like to be human than most of us do, just as Smallville did for Clark Kent, Man of Steel did this as well (with less time as obviously they did not have 10 years of build up). Another important facto was the film ultimately was not be afraid to touch upon the fact that Superman is an alien, its a sci fi story! We received all of this in Man of Steel and I loved it.

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice dealt with the aftermath of Man of Steel's events, and it was honestly a great idea. It finally shows that the actions of heroes and villains have consequences in this world. The lives lost, the damage done and spirits of its people and governments are just to be swept under the rug. We were pulled into a cinematic adventure where we experience a world where a Superman exists.

Another important element is it gave Superman an edge! I know some of the traditionalists will attack me for this as Superman is supposed to be a "boyscout" and this shining symbol of justice. He can still be this shining symbol of justice with an edge, I love how they made Superman NOT perfect despite what people think him to be, like you and I he can make mistakes. We got a Superman that reflects the not so hopeful time we live in, one where we live in a paranoid, scary world where there is evil. But despite the flaws of our world we have a Superman who is willing to lay down his life to save us all. Sounds familiar right? almost Biblical.

People can criticize the tone of Man of Steel and Batman v Superman all they want, the story called for it. It just made sense in this context and now especially with the SPOILERS Death of Superman adaption, upon his resurrection in Justice League, which itself is supposed to be lighter in tone I think we will get that more "hopeful" side of Superman. With this in mind, all the other Justice Leaugers will be receiving their own solo film, including Ben Affleck's Batman at some point. With Superman being the benchmark of note only DC comics but of the DCEU in general I feel it is only appropriate that the Man of Steel himself gets his own proper solo sequel and give him a chance to truly shine on his own as Superman. Henry Cavill in my opinion is the best Superman ever! Yep, I said it....look I know Reeve is a legend and for that particular take he is great but I mean come on, Cavill just embodies Superman's qualities better than anyone from his sincereness, his will to persevere, as well as when needed that aggressive edge...not to mention actually bearing a physical resemblance to the Superman of the comics.

It hasn't been confirmed if and when there will be a true Man of Steel sequel. Zack Snyder is confirmed to be directing Justice League parts 1 and 2 so I think its safe to say he is pretty tied up. There were rumours that George Miller may be directing Man of Steel 2, if that is the case I am totally on board! I mean first I would like Snyder to return, it was the series he started so I think he'd be best to continue his vision of Superman...and for those worrying about darkness, I think MoS and BvS were it for that certain tone and Justice League will supposedly be lighter (According to screenwriter Chris Terrio). Now I definitely think DC needs to maintain its darker more serious edge but can be light when needed...NOT Marvel light, no, most certainly not but light enough to be Superman. If Snyder is too busy with the JL films I think Miller is a great choice and even if Miller cannot or refuses, somebody else must be chosen because I really think that the DCEU needs to have its own contained Superman series of films to go with the planned Justice League, Aquaman, Flash, Green Lantern, Cyborg, Suicide Squad, Shazam and Batman films.

With a Man of Steel 2, I would love to see the relationship with Clark and Lois grow, perhaps do the engagement, marriage storyline? something of this was hinted towards the end of BvS. I would love to see the people who are against Superman finally put their doubts and skepticism to rest upon his resurrection in Justice League thus allowing for a Superman solo film to let him be the shining hero he is known to be.

It seems the big bad "Darkseid" is being saved for Justice League, and rightfully so. He is a villain that would take many heroes and forces to unite to take him out...same goes with Brainiac. Brainiac is another Superman villain, like Darkseid that I think would best be left to a JL film as well as the writers could really do a large global scale threat with a Justice League film centred on Brainiac as its antagonist. Therefore with a Man of Steel sequel I really want to see Lex Luthor return. I loved Jesse Eisenberg's modern take on the narcissistic billionaire, and with him behind bars at the end of BvS, and Superman inevitably resurrecting I would love to see the angry side of Lex. A side of Lex hardened by prison, a Lex who is angry that he was defeated and bested by an alien who is so powerful and so much better than us he even defeated death. This could give reason for a Lex return to truly try and humiliate Superman rather than destroy him. Lex could create Bizarro, but one less comic book-y with the white face but what if he was an exact clone of Superman! He looks like him, has his memories and everything only with bad intensions. Bizarro could really damage Supes' reputation thus strengthening Lex's master plan! They can do many things with a Lex return such as him busting out and having secret labs, weapons stashes or people that simply owe him or fear him to work for him....or they could do what the modern comics seemingly have done, Lex has connections in high places and money talks...Lex buys his way out, or has an extremely good defence team, whichever works and reclaims his fortune and LexCorp only this time he's pissed off! (perhaps convincing the general public to vote for him in a Presidency run? who knows!) Since Lex didn't "lose" his hair, it was shaved for prison reasons I felt what if he kept shaving his head bald as a constant reminder that he loves his hair and that he lost it when he was humiliated and bested by the heroes, so he will continuously shave it as a reminder that he was humiliated and lost with the intention of growing it back once he "wins", I feel that could really build on Lex's more psychotic (or 3 syllable word?lol) traits established in the previous film.

Aside from Bizarro Lex could also create Metallo using whatever Kryptonite he has left, or perhaps even Parasite! Parasite would be cool to see, they could do a Earth One Vol. 2 like story where the Parasite steals Superman's powers leaving him powerless for a period of time. This would allow for a sympathetic audience and give us to truly identify with and relate to Superman and make him more human than ever, Smallville did this multiple times and the whole powerless Superman thing really worked sometimes. I just really want to see a Man of Steel sequel that gives us a great Clark Kent and Lois story, great Superman like themes and tone, a physical villain that he can fight but the real mastermind is Luthor.

In the Superman Zack Snyder has given us in 2 films (soon to be 3) we have truly found us the Superman of the comics and I think its time people move on from the beloved Christopher Reeve films and begin to embrace the modern Superman, the way he was meant to be.

Affleck Solo Batman Movie Script Complete!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Fri, 01 Apr 2016 14:35:00 +0000

As you may have heard the news broke yesterday, there have been rumours since San Diego Comic Con that Ben Affleck will be starring in, directing, and co-writing his solo Batman flick with DC Chief Creative Officer Geoff Johns. Now always take rumours with a grain of salt but according to sources close to those involved with DC and its Extended Universe, Affleck has indeed written (and supposedly completed) a script for his solo Batman film!

This is great news as Ben himself is a big comic book guy. He seems to be having fun with playing the role of the Batman. I don't think there can be a better idea than having Batman direct himself and write his own solo film. Affleck has grown tremendously as an actor turning in amazing performances in Hollywoodland,The Company Men, State of Play, the Town, Argo and especially in Gone Girl. He recently proved to silence his critics with his turn as Batman which in my opinion is the best performance of his entire career. He has written and won for screenplay with Matt Damon, the critically acclaimed film Good Will Hunting. Affleck also wrote and directed the acclaimed films: Gone Baby Gone, The Town as well as the Academy Award Winning film (his 2nd Oscar specifically), Argo. His stories, character developments, and dialogue are spot on so why not be able to collaborate with Geoff Johns and the guys at DC to make a kickass Batman film. When Affleck has complete control over his films he is even more passionate about the final product and will definitely craft a great film!

I feel with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice being a huge financial success and hit with the core fans, and with Justice League commencing film as well as Ben wrapping up filming on Live By Night (which he is also directing) I feel once JL wraps up WB/DC should really come to an agreement with Ben Affleck on fast tracking this solo Bat-flick. Ben is a busy guy, he has quite a few films lined up that he no doubt wants to act in or direct. But the guy wouldn't sign on to play Batman if he only wanted it temporarily. Everyone knows that superhero roles are a franchise role with multiple movies so I think that he is all for playing Mr. Wayne for the long term, just as long as he is also given time to pursue other passion projects.

I feel with Batman he could turn it into a passion project, he's very knowledgeable with the source material, I would love to see him put his own gritty spin on it. Especially with his take on Batman being so well received I think I can speak on the behalf of many fans that we want to see more of Batfleck!

I like it when comic films take cues, references and plot points from famous stories BUT I'm not one for wanting to see a direct adaption, you already know what happens! There's no surprise, no shock value or creativity to it. BUT with that being said here are some storylines and plot points I would love to see Affleck do his own spin on.

1. A Death in the Family/Under the Red Hood

This seems to be what everybody wants to see, the introduction and return of Batman's slain partner Robin/Jason Todd a.k.a. the Red Hood, a ruthless gun-totting vigilante who does what Batman won't. Seeing Red Hood on the big screen would be intense and make for great storytelling, as well as getting to see a live action scene of The Joker ruthlessly beating Robin to death with a crow bar only for Batman to arrive too late to save him. His greatest failure reflecting the hanging Robin suit seen in the Batcave in Batman v Superman. With Jason Todd being introduced it can also open the door to seeing the Bat-Family on the big screen, as Jason is the second Robin after Dick Grayson, I for one would love to see Dick/Nightwing on the big screen. He's way over due for a proper live action depiction. This storyline would also be able to utilize Jared Leto's Joker once again following Suicide Squad, a performance that looks very promising indeed.

2. The Court of Owls

Arguably the best Batman story of the last decade. When DC relaunched their entire line with the New 52, writer Scott Snyder introduced some new and very intriguing villains in the form of The Court of Owls. An old underground Gotham society that was deemed a myth only to be exposed as very real. The Court is an illuminati-like group of Gotham's most powerful wealthy families passed on from generation vying for complete control over Gotham City. This was a story where Batman was pushed to his psychological limits and a breaking point, with interesting, creepy villains with a very "Eyes Wide Shut" vibe cult vibe...and no not in the literal sense.

3. Hush
This great Batman story by Jeph Loeb, the man who brought us two Batman classics, The Long Halloween and Dark Victory gave us a villain with a very personal connection to Bruce Wayne, his jealous psychologically imbalanced childhood friend Dr. Thomas Elliot. The lead up in this story is great with a villain stalking Batman's every move, playing games with him utilizing his most deadly enemies as well as digging up some skeletons of the past (Jason!) Hush took the battle to the Dark Knight in a very personal way.

4. Arkham Asylum

Whether its the video game or the graphic novel in which it is based on, Arkham Asylum is a landmark Batman story. One that delves into the Bat's tortured psyche as he prowls the hallways of the lunatic asylum that his enemies are condemned to and have overrun. It begs the question does Batman belong in here too?

5. Death of the Family
Scott Snyder during his Batman run wrote yet another dark, twisted and disturbed Batman story with Death of the Family. This was a great Joker story one where The Joker has become more twisted than he ever has been before, targeting Batman's closest allies, his "family." In this story Joker wears his face as a mask (as it was cut off in Detective Comics #1 Vol. 2 by the Dollmaker). This would be a great story that utilizes Ben's Batman himself, Jared Leto's Joker and uses it as an open to introduce an onscreen version of the Bat family. It is also revealed in this story that The Joker knew Batman's identity for years, but Bruce Wayne is "not fun," and not his real self, this is why Joker before only targeted the Batman.

6. Earth-One Vol. 2 (A Gritty Riddler Story)
Geoff Johns' Earth One series is more of a modernized younger Batman, the opposite of Ben's grizzled veteran crime fighter of the DCEU. But in Vol. 2 it gave us an ultra serious depiction of the Riddler, one less annoying or campy/over the top but one deadly serious, one who will even kill if his Riddle is solved out of anger. This Riddler reminded me of Jigsaw from the Saw series, he was deadly and gruesome. The last time the Riddler was on the big screen he was played in Frank Gorshin campy-ish 60's style by Jim Carrey which worked to a certain degree. While The Riddler in the comics and video games is definitely not as campy, he is however quirky, babbles a lot about his intelligence and so on and so forth but also very deadly with his death traps. Death traps yes, babbling? no, I would love to see a serious twisted take on the Riddler, a "Nolanized" version per say.

Once again, I'm not one to want to see a direct adaption...I'm a comic reader/fan and even I can't understand why when you have a character with such a rich history why retread the same ground and do original stories with elements of these famous stories just as Nolan, Burton and Snyder have done thus far. I very much hope we see a solo Ben Affleck Batman film as soon as possible, but until there is official confirmation we will next see the Batman cameo in Suicide Squad and November 2017 in Justice League.

Honourable Mention: Grant Morrison's Batman Run

Morrison's run was a long run, one that was very innovative to the Batman comic canon and one that was also very ballsy. Morrison introduced Batman's son with Talia al Ghul, Damian Wayne, it "killed off" Bruce, had Dick Grayson sub in as Batman with Damian as his Robin, had Bruce return from the distant past, reclaim his mantle side by side with Dick (both as Batman) while recruiting proteges, apprentices and emissaries around the world with "Batman Incorporated," the premise and idea that "Batman is Everywhere" and that crime can no longer hide thus drawing further mystery to Batman himself, was he always one man? if he's in Gotham how is he in Tokyo? This itself would require multiple films, and as I said I'm not one for straight up adaptions but certain elements would be cool. BUT there's a reason this is an honourable mention, its a bit unorthodox and would be very difficult to utilize on the big screen such as Damian (He's 10 years old), multiple Batmen partners worldwide, and the idea of someone who is NOT Bruce Wayne behind the cowl for a period of time (Dick Grayson)may scare off the general/casual audience, but then again with everything we've seen thus far the DCEU is definitely geared for us comic book folk.

There are many possibilities to what Ben's solo film will be about, which villains will he utilize and if he will bring in the Bat family. For now we can only speculate until there is an official word from Ben Affleck himself, Geoff Johns or anyone else at WB/DC in direct connection to the DCEU.

Fear the Bat

Why the Critics Will Not Jeopardize the Credibility of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and the DC Extended Universe

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sat, 26 Mar 2016 16:07:00 +0000

The DC Trinity ready to do battle with Doomsday, or the critics?

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice has officially opened yesterday, many seen the pre screenings on Thursday the 24th and those who were lucky enough (damn you!) to see the screenings earlier in the week. Based on everything I have read, the general audience liked the film, quite a bit! the comic die hards (like myself) absolutely love this movie. But its the critics who are causing uncertainty in the DC world.

The film sits at a 46 on Metacritic and a very low 30% on Rotten Tomatoes (although the general audience felt mostly positive with 74%) and on IMDb with 7.6, for a Non-Christopher Nolan Batman film this is a relatively high score, actually for any movie on IMDb that doesn't sit in the top 250...especially one so polarizing.

The film is projected to open to over $170 Million this weekend, regardless of the critical beating it is taking and its only the opening weekend. Sure critics are no doubt influential and will scare away a few, but I feel those are the few who were always looking for a reason to hate on the film and not see it. Any true fan or anyone who really wants to see the "Greatest gladiator match in the history of the world" will go regardless of critics. The way I see it if a casual audience member is going to listen to anyone the people they should be taking advice from are those who are well versed in the source material, the comic guys. I know many comic guys like myself whether it be in person or via social media and for this particular niche, I have not read anything negative. And that's the point. I feel that director Zack Snyder and co. set out to make a comic book extravaganza, after seeing the film I can see this film was NOT meant to please the critics or even the general public. DC (and Marvel for that matter) have already done that. Now its time to get REAL, and by real I mean no tweaks to make the film audience friendly, no changes for the mainstream, no jokes and light tone to appeal....no no no. This was a film that honours, and vibrantly captures the source material beautifully. Lets not forget Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman et all were not created on film and spanned into the comics. They were comic characters that were so influential in pop culture everyone wanted a piece of them in every media whether it be film, TV, video games etc. That is their true home, a home where you can see them monthly or weekly in various different iterations and comic books.

I've already discussed in my previous article why I feel the critics are completely ignorant when it comes to this film and why they're completely wrong about a film that does nothing but honour the source material but I will say that they're voices never have and in this case most certainly won't be louder and stronger than the people. With a projected $170 mill projected for opening weekend it just shows the die hards, casual fans and the general audience don't give a fuck what they think. This film like it or not is history. Never before have the two most iconic titans of comic book lore clashed on the big screen and they likely will again (well more like join forces) but there will never ever again be a "First time."

The fans and die hards have spoken, now is when money talks. If the film continues to make a killing at the box office despite the lukewarm response. It pains me to make this comparison but look at Transformers, those are films I generally do not like but hey I don't think I'm even supposed to. The first few pleased some fans that I know and that's who these movies are made for! I believe it is in WB/DC's best interest to simply throw up a middle finger to the critics as their victory pose. Justice League, the much anticipated follow up to this film commences filming April 11 with a release of November 2017 planned and guess what?! It will be directed by Zack Snyder! So for those who went into this film hating that its Snyder film, not getting over that film and just feeling the need to criticize and not know exactly what they're getting into or what Warners has planned this whole time well get ready for another round. Snyder has his vision completely planned out and from a comic book aficionado's perspective he's pulling it off quite nicely. With cameos of the (future) League in the film we know that they will get their solo films within the next few years, but Justice League is the biggie. I don't think anyone has to worry about a change in course of the DCEU. Money talks and the critics' bullshit will take the bus back home, preparing their notes for their next round of criticism when Warners' and Snyder's people swim in that Lex Luthor money.

In Zack Snyder we trust...the DCEU is in good hands.

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE; My Review and Why the Critics Are WRONG!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Fri, 25 Mar 2016 18:10:00 +0000

WARNING THIS REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS....YOU'VE BEEN WARNED

SERIOUSLY SPOILERS STOP READING IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT YET!

FINALLY! A film that I have waited my entire life to see, and these last 3 years with the official announcement that we were finally getting a Batman and Superman crossover film has been excruciatingly long and now its finally here and......

I LOVED IT. Totally. I mean seriously this film was everything that I wanted in a Batman/Superman movie. A movie with a heavy story, a dark atmosphere and setting with great characters and their overall development, and finally ultimately something that would lead into a larger universe.

I loved Man of Steel. Its my favourite Superman movie, I felt it captured the modern comics depiction of the character perfectly. The destruction in Man of Steel specifically the Battle of Metropolis between Superman and the Kryptonians as well as just the whole idea of an alien race invading the Earth would leave large consequences in a real world setting. 18 months later the world is still begging the question as to what happened, Metropolis has been rebuilt more or less but the people as well as government are torn on Superman. Is he a force for good, and how do we know he will not turn on us and more importantly who does he answer to? We see Bruce Wayne played by Ben Affleck was there in Metropolis when Zod attacked the Earth causing him to be angry with the superpowered being. This is where billionaire Lex Luthor comes to take advantage of this.

The performances in this film were awesome. Henry Cavill continues to prove to me that he is the perfect embodiment of Superman. Not only does he actually look like the comic Superman but his sincereness, his inner conflict and insecurity but strength and determination prove he has always been perfect for the role.

Here's the one we've all been waiting for.....BEN AFFLECK IS BATMAN! I have been on Team Batfleck since day one of the announcement. I thought Ben has really proven himself as a great actor and he is the perfect successor to Christian Bale's masterful performance, especially once figuring out Affleck's will be very Frank Miller-eqsue. Batman in this film is a mean son of a bitch, he is intimidating, a powerhouse and force to be reckoned with. Affleck is the comics Batman come to life and I can't thank Affleck, writer Chris Terrio and director Zack Snyder enough for this!

Amy Adams is given more to do in this film and proves that she is an awesome Lois Lane. Gal Gadot may have caused some worry when being casted but she was a scene stealer as Wonder Woman. She was just a badass, sexy, smart and a total knockout to watch. Seeing the Trinity together was pure dynamite and will make any fan lose their mind!

Here's one people seem to be mixed on...but I for one loved this performance, Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor! and my do we have a different take on Lex in this film. Here to line up with the modern age having many young "Tech giants" as billionaires, why not make Lex fall in this category.? Luthor is eccentric, extremely intelligent, an annoying/pain in the ass to Senator Finch (played by Holly Hunter) but just a completely unstable, power-hungry narcissistic psychopath. That scene where he thratens Lois and blackmails Superman on the LexCorp helipad was one of my favourite and most intense scenes of the film! I love the way this character was written, say what you will about Eisenberg being over the top because I don't think he was, I think he was great. It was quite erie actually how LexCorp had this looming presence throughout the film, every dirty little secret and lead back there.

The story hooked me immediately with the introduction to this new take on Batman, one more grizzled and angry to the introduction of Diana Prince and the consequences of Man of Steel as well as leading up to the new story itself. The dialogue was awesome too! There were many memorable scenes from BATMAN's introduction, his intense Batmobile chase, the senate hearings with Superman, but next up I'm going to talk about the fight! WOW. Badass, I felt like my copy of The Dark Knight Returns came off the pages and up onto the screen. What a hard hitting and not to mention violent fight (and movie overall) this was the fight I was waiting for and was I ever impressed by it! Zack Snyder can really construct awesome action sequences with his visionary cinematography and camera angles, I for one think his style is unique.

The ending fight the Trinity vs Doomsday was an epic, violent and hard-hitting showdown that had me on the edge of my seat and tense the entire time. But the ending OH MY GOD

BIG BIG BIG SPOILERS HERE DON'T READ IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT I'M TELLING YOU!!!

OH MY GOD. I had a small feeling this may happen but I thought it would be a very ballsy move to do it and my God they did it....they killed Superman! They actually adapted the Death of Superman due to his fight with Doomsday into this story! What an emotional scene. A scene that left me in tears, I just watched one of my childhood heroes die, and that funeral in Metropolis mirroring his real, small funeral amongst his mother, Bruce, Diana and Lois in Smallville was beautiful but a damn sad ending. But as the ending may hint and if anyone knows the comics lore, the Man of Steel will rise again. We will have to wait until Justice League to see Superman return. And speaking of Justice League, the key future members had some cameo appearances in this film. Lex is fascinated by the idea of metahuman individuals that his LexCorp files contained file footage of Wonder Woman herself, Aquaman, Cyborg and The Flash who also appeared in an intensely grim and gut wrenching scene...the post apocalyptic "Nightmare" scene, where in a future where Batman and Superman's war rages on and those close to Superman die...the world has fallen to its knees, Batman leads a resistance against the Man of Steel and his soldiers but a bigger threat is at large, the Flash runs through time to show Bruce this vision of the future and warns him to stop this from ever happening. I got chills, literally this is shit right out of the comics!

In conclusion for my actual review of the movie (before the bell is rung for my match with the critics here) Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is the perfect comic book film, if you are a lover of the comics like I am this is the film you've waited your whole life for. If you enjoy lots of drama,compelling storytelling, awesome performances and grim settings with great action sequences and many comic references, there really isn't a reason you shouldn't like this movie. Its simply great.

Now for the critics....come on guys seriously? I read some of their reviews and the majority of them I don't agree with at all. Like ok some of the negative reviews had some logical points which I could understand ok fine not for you I guess....BUT when critics continuously point out the film lacked because:

"It was too dark and grim in tone" this is invalid because its a fucking Batman film guys...you want a light Batman film? seriously? the last time we got that we got George Clooney's Batnipples and Arnold marking stupid ice puns "No jokes" I don't know why people have this preconceived notion that comic films all have to be tongue in cheek, funny, humorous and light. No they don't always work like that. There IS NO set formula, every character is different and some tones fit different characters and settings.

Blaming Zack Snyder? come on people this is where preconceived notions start to show....its a Zack Snyder film you KNOW what you're getting into and theres not a damn thing you or anybody else can do about it so rather than going in and being overly fucking critical about his style which you may not like or be fond off you have to be open minded and willing to give it a chance because here for this particular film especially it works beautifully.

"Story" I'm sorry has it really been that long ago since The Dark Knight Rises? back when Nolan was making Bat films they all had layered and in depth, dark and grim plots. Like seriously? were people not able to comprehend the plot or something, has modern blockbuster movies dumbed down their intelligence so now that when a blockbuster such as this is released with an actual great story they sit there dazed and confused? I don't know. But it seems in the years that followed critics have gotten used to thin plot points with action, humour and popcorn bubblegum blockbuster aspects added into the film to give it that mass mainstream appeal and really show its a superhero film. DC really has emphasized they don't make "superhero films," they make "films about superheroes." This movie straight up (for the first half at least) is a drama, a dark drama that sets up the story for the second half of the film to delve into that superhero blockbuster while still maintaining its ever growing story, giving us the action we crave in superhero movies but being able to be serious about it. Why do people have this idea now that superhero films can't be serious? its quite fucking ludicrous if you ask me. And this leads into my final argument as to why the critics in this case are just completely wrong.

"Not like Marvel/Didn't do [insert reasoning] like Marvel/because Marvel/Marvel Marvel Marvel" the amount of reviews I've read with a Marvel comparison....guys seriously? DC and Marvel are literally night and day. They both produce superhero product but different styles. They can't be the same style they just can't because it just won't work. I feel like certain critic were out to get this film from the get go. Because what if this film had a more Marvel like tone, what would they say? I can tell you EXACTLY what they'd say and it would go along the lines of this: "DC lacks ambition, differentiation, boldness and ultimately struggles hard to replicate a formula already perfected by Marvel rather than attempting to create their own identity and style." I thoroughly believe this that in many critics' minds this film was dead not on arrival but before it even fucking arrived because they didn't even give it a chance. Hollywood is all about timing and for some reason it feels like they don't think its DC's time. DC is going for a more adult, mature style universe? whats wrong with that? Marvel comparisons are inevitable but I don't think its relevant or should even be done. Also this film having 31% on Rotten Tomatoes? COME ON. (The site that gave sharknado a positive rating? please....) this film is better than many of the films Marvel produced, yes its true, at least I think so anyhow. 31% is EXTREMELY low...

Like I said there are legit reasons for people not liking the movie or not seeing it as their cup of tea, and I've read some of these reviews and I can understand some of them, ok whatever your loss. But when it comes to reasoning I mentioned above? Stupid. Absolutely stupid. Its not fair whatsoever. I'm not believing in some big conspiracy theory to derail DC's universe because it just won't happen. The audience loves it so far, and I hope they continue to do so. Everyone has an opinion and is entitled to it. Mine is it was a great movie, as a comic book reader and lover it was a dream come true. They adapted many famous scenes, lines and elements that I never thought I'd ever see on the big screen. It had an awesome plot and story, great visual effects, spectacular performances and an emotional climax. FUCK its haters because we fans are proud of this movie and all that Snyder and co. have accomplished bring on the JUSTICE LEAGUE and more importantly bring on the DC EXTENDED UNIVERSE.

#BatmanvSuperman #BatmanvSupermanDawnofJustice #DawnofJustice #Batman #Superman #ZackSnyder #Review #DCEU #LexLuthor #Batfleck #BenAffleck #HenryCavill #AmyAdams #GalGadot #JesseEisenberg #JusticeLeague #Comics #movies #film #Aquaman #TheFlash #WonderWoman #Cyborg #Doomsday #LexCorp #WayneEnterprises #BruceWayne #ClarkKent #LoisLane #BatmanvsSuperman #ManofSteel #DarkKnight #FrankMiller

Nightcrawler (2014) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Tue, 11 Nov 2014 18:55:00 +0000

An edge of your seat thrill ride. Nightcrawler is a strong dramatic thriller from Dan Gilroy, in his directorial debut. A film that shows the measures a sociopath is willing to go.

Jake Gyllenhaal plays Lou, a man whom at the film's beginning makes his living by stealing from various Los Angeles construction sites and selling the parts for money. Immediately at the beginning we see his ability to think on his feet but also the fact that he is not afraid to go to drastic measures. Literally in the beginning of the film a police officer that nearly catches him in the act, he beats him to the ground.

Lou begins looking into various jobs to figure out a new way to make a steady living. Upon the seen of an accident he sees a film crew immediately filming the aftermath and rush to send in the film for money. Lou eventually takes it upon himself to purchase a camera, listening to police scanners and follow the action to anywhere it goes. He eventually starts turning in his footage much to the praise of Nina, the morning news director. His footage is risque and controversial but brings in views.

Lou filming a crime scene

As the film proceeds we see Lou's sociopathic tendencies begin to develop. From moving bodies at a crime scene to get a better camera shot. Lou eventually tries to blackmail Nina into sleeping with him or he will take his much wanted graphic news footage to another station. Gyllenhaal's performance is driven, the man will do anything to get ahead even if it means endangering others. We see his quirkiness when he takes necessary "Steps" to get ahead, as well as his quotes from various studies he has read online, interpreting them differently in his twisted mind. He takes on a partner who is down on his luck but the relationship between the two begins going south, when Lou intimidates him to stay on and begins mistreating and underpaying him.

Lou has had constant run-ins with a rival cameraman who has beaten Lou to the scene various times and eventually harassed him for not agreeing to work together. On a night where Lou could not record anything exciting and this man beat him to it we see Lou's "mirror" freakout scene. Like seriously Gyllenhaal in this film will creep the s@$t out of you. He rigs the guy's breaks causing him to be involved in a severe accident. Lou has no remorse.

A true sociopath

The film continues to get more and more interesting especially once Lou is at the right place at the right time. 2 blocks over from a breaking and entering, he arrives before the police. Lou is able to record gunshots and 2 men escaping in an SUV. He then goes into the house and records the scene of the dead bodies. Once this graphic footage makes the news Nina praises it but the police begin getting curious. Especially when Lou does not inform them about seeing the men and SUV flee. He has a plan to earn more money. He follows them to a restaurant, calls the police saying who they are and are armed, this leads to an intense shootout and car chase leading to officers being down (at least one dead), once the suspects crash Lou baits his assistant to getting a closer look leading him to be shot to death....all of this was planned for Lou to get intense footage. He creates a fall story and is off the hook to expand his business.

This was one intense film, I honestly could not predict what was going to happen. Not only was Gyllenhaal so consumed by his role like you wouldn't even think its him. In the last few years he has been turning in some awesome performances (Prisoners). Gilroy's indie style directing is great, it reminded me a lot of "Drive". The film was excellently paced, it had a twisted dark story with a character who as psycho as he may potentially be, you are conflicted as a viewer whether or not you root for him or not. In my book that is grounds for a great performance and a great film.

Overall: Nightcrawler is an excellent film and without a doubt a strong Oscar contender. 8.5/10

Interstellar (2014) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 22:19:00 +0000

SPOILERS AHEAD: stop reading if you have not seen this film!

Christopher Nolan does it again! Interstellar is a mind boggling sci-fi thriller that really pushes our boundaries and reality of space travel as we know it. This film will be really difficult to review, as there is so much going on in this film, it is so in depth but by reviewing one thing I will be unwinding another thing I must explain in order for you to understand what I'm talking about. It will just lead to a really confusing and dry review, so yeah I will keep it simple.

Interstellar takes place in the future. On our planet that is so rundown and dying, there are huge amounts of dust storms etc. its just unhealthy, the human race will not survive much longer. We are introduced to Cooper played by Matthew McConaughey, a farmer and former trained astronaut. We see Cooper and his family life with his son, daughter,and father in-law as well as his dislike for farm life and wanting to actually use his engineering skills. His daughter keeps telling her dad of a "ghost" in her room knocking out books on the shelf and in morse code spelling out "stay". Upon running into a NASA base with his daughter towards the film's beginning is enlisted by Professor Brand (Michael Caine) and his daughter Amelia (Anne Hathaway) to go on a deep space mission. This mission will involve going through a wormhole that will take you across space, further than imaginable to find potential planets that Earth's population can inhabit.

Cooper leaves home one last time

Cooper, Amelia and a crew of theirs go into space but before they leave we see true emotion in the film, when Cooper informs his family he is leaving, and that he may potentially never come back..at least not anytime soon. His daughter becomes an emotional wreck and resents him, she refuses to even say goodbye causing Cooper to cry as he drives away from his farm one last time. McConaughey is awesome in this role! Like he is so damned good, the emotion he can convey in scenes like these is true acting capability, as well as his determination and intelligence once they are actually aboard their shuttle heading to and through the wormhole. He is perfectly casted.

The journey through space is astonishing to watch, the effects are top notch from the high tech space shuttle, and futuristic equipment, the look of the stars and universe, the flight, and ultimately the planets through the wormhole. Nolan brings us some smooth and awesome direction of a truly complex film, these visuals are stunning, its "Gravity" (2013) on steroids.

Anne Hathaway as Amelia

Once the mission is outlined and they head into space, strap in and keep your mind right. It gets very, very complicated. Through this wormhole time moves very differently, what may feel like a normal day, hours etc. could be years to decades on earth....this is just to put it simplistically. They must conserve their fuel but also regard the time for their return. As Cooper even puts it to his daughter he may even return to her both being the same age. While they travel through space they go into tanks that hibernate/keep them in suspended animation to not age them. As they are moving to Point A we see the video messages conveyed from Earth from Cooper's family as time has progressed they have gotten older, had their own families, really causing the emotion of McConaughey's character to develop and take centre stage.

The film gets more and more in depth, to put it simplistically again, things get rather complicated after they have been on 2 planets already, causing Cooper to take charge and command a return home. It is through this return mission that we see the true visuals come out, great acting and the conflict with another character (whom i will not mention name or actor to preserve the surprise). Cooper attempts to save Amelia leaving him to fall into space, only he ends up falling into another dimension where time is not linear. He travelled back through time to when he was about to leave seeing his daughter at the age when he left, HE was the ghost, attempting to get his younger self to stay behind. He travels to present time through this non linear dimension to warn his resentful daughter of this, she finally realizes the truth and through various codes and messages Cooper communicates with his daughter as to how they can preserve the human race on a new station, completing Brand's equation. Cooper eventually does find his way back home to see his daughter now an elderly and dying woman with her family. Its a touching, emotional and triumphant ending as he was able to save our race but the unaged Cooper isn't finished yet as the film ends with him aboard a NASA ship setting out to find Amelia as she has found refuge on a planet able to sustain life.

The film is vastly complicated but if you like this kind of film or you go in with an open mind you will have a blast! I loved it, I think it was brilliantly written. For Nolan to craft an idea like this proves how even more genius like he is. Especially how the story unfolds its so complex! Interstellar is being hyped as the next 2001: A Space Odyssey, and I personally disagree. Because I think its better! Yup, some will cry blasphemy. Honest truth 2001 while yes innovative (even by today's standards) its slow paced...you can argue this is too but no its slower than this. Interstellar I think is a better film, one that I know will become a cult classic like 2001. I also believe this surpasses last year's Oscar winning Gravity. Another controversial decision but hey its my preference. Gravity is the realistic ground breaking film, but in this film the nobs are turned up to the Nth level and just amaze. Nolan, McConaughey, Hathaway please all take a bow you've earned it.

Overall: Interstellar is an expertly crafted sci/fi extravaganza with a compelling story, intense visuals, and outstanding acting.

9.5/10

Jared Leto in Final Negotiations to play THE JOKER!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 20:24:00 +0000

Jared Leto

Heath Ledger as The Joker in 2008's "The Dark Knight"

Yes, ladies and gentleman you read that correctly. Hot off an Oscar Win, Jared Leto is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations to portray the Clown Prince of Crime himself, The Joker in WB/DC's upcoming villains film, "Suicide Squad." It is reported that Ryan Gosling rejected an offer of playing Batman's arch nemesis due to it being a multi-picture commitment.

I personally think this is a great choice. Leto has had some great acting roles,specifically in Dallas Buyers Club that won him the Best Supporting Actor Oscar earlier this year. I think after a performance like that he will definitely have what it takes to get under the skin and into the mindset of one of the most famous villains in popculture. Heath Ledger was fantastic in the role and the best to date, now thats a hard performance to follow up on or match. In order to do this Leto's interpretation must be different, unique and standout. Very similar to how Ledger's Joker was very different to that of Jack Nicholson's. This is exciting news because Affleck's Batman now has his arch enemy, Leto's Joker. Hopefully we see the two cross paths sooner rather than later.

I personally think that for differentiation the writers will have Leto's Joker be more in line with the current comics as seen in Scott Snyder's "Death of the Family" storyline from 2012. In which The Joker's personality mind you was more inspired by Ledger with its darker, sick tendencies and actions but in terms of the appearance its a new and twisted take, showcasing his face cut off (from a previous storyline) wearing bandages/some sort of medical tape across his face.

The Joker, drawn by Jim Lee

Jack Nicholson as The Joker in 1989's "Batman"

You thought The Joker was twisted before? Think again

Star Wars Episode VII Title Revealed!

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 18:43:00 +0000

Its almost been 2 years now since George Lucas announced he has sold off the Star Wars name, brand and legacy to Disney. Disney commenced work on a new trilogy. Episode VII is to be directed by visual director J.J. Abrams, of Star Trek and Star Trek: Into Darkness Fame.

Today through a tweet via the official Star Wars twitter account it was confirmed that principal photography was completed on the film. AND that Episode VII now officially has an official title:

Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens is our title! Originally I was totally and completely 100% against a new Star Wars flick. What more could happen? I said, the Skywalker story is over we seen Luke's rise in the originals and his father Anakin's fall in the prequels. But with Abrams at the helm, he fits the bill perfectly for this film. Also after recent spy set photos and some comments by comic aficionado Kevin Smith, it sounds like Episode VII will be awesome. The Force Awakens also has features the return of series original members Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker), Carrie Fisher (Princess Lea) and Harrison Ford (Han Solo). Now I am much more excited for December 18, 2015.

Thor (2011) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 19:08:00 +0000

One of Marvel's most popular characters hits the big screen. Thor! based on the Norse mythological character of the same name. This film was definitely not an easy one to make and it was actually quite a gamble due to the more mythological atmosphere of the character.

Thor attempts to retrieve his hammer

Thor delivered! It was actually a great film and it was done right. With awesome CGI Asgard was brought to life, the Utopia of the Universe. With excellent supporting cast members we are really treated here. Chris Hemsworth plays the God of Thunder himself, Thor. He is perfect for the role, he brings the arrogant charm of this demigod character and also his brute strength and sympathy. Thor is the son of Odin, played by Anthony Hopkins. Odin is the King of Asgard, who was ready to pass on his torch to Thor. However Asgard is infiltrated by Frost Giants, a species that have long been enemies to Asgard but there has been a peace for centuries. The Frost Giants wished to seize the Casket of Ancient Winters, the source of their powers. Thor against his father's orders leads an assault against the Frost Giants, showcasing his might powers and his iconic Hammer. Thor is then banished to Earth with no powers, and if he be worthy once again possess the power of Thor and wield his hammer.

Seeing Thor's struggle on Earth, being powerless and attempting to convince locals in a small town who he is is great. Hemsworth's acting is at its high point in these scenes. It is during his time on Earth that Thor meets Dr. Jane Foster, played by Natalie Portman. Jane is astrophysicist who believes in various strange occurrences. Her and Thor have a mutual attraction, she also is willing to help him, slowly believing his story.

Loki

The twist in the story is Thor's half brother Loki, who is of actual Frost Giant descent set up the entire plot. He has always been jealous of Thor, he wishes to kill Odin and reign as King of Asgard. Tom Hiddleston steals the show in every scene he is in. His Loki is charismatic, intelligent and conniving. A perfect Marvel villain. Once Thor regains his powers, promises Jane he will be back, Thor returns to Asgard for the the climax. The film had an exhilarating final showdown between Thor and Loki atop of the Bifrost Bridge which leads to the portal to other dimensions. Thor destroys the bridge with his hammer stranding himself on Asgard while Loki falls, supposedly to his death. However it is after the credits we know Loki is possessing Dr. Selvig, Jane's assistant at a S.H.I.E.L.D. facility that lays the pieces for The Avengers.

Overall: Thor is a Marvel highpoint, filled with some great action packed sequences, great stories, great direction from Kenneth Branagh and a great lead character. 8/10

THOR

directed by

Kenneth Branagh

Written by

Ashley Edward Miller

Zack Stentz

Don Payne

Cast

Chris Hemsworth

Natalie Portman

Tom Hiddleston

Stellan Skarsgard

Colm Feore

Ray Stevenson

Idris Elba

Kat Dennings

Rene Russo

and Anthony Hopkins

Furious 7 Trailer Debut

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 18:36:00 +0000

This week we were finally given a trailer to the long awaited and much highly anticipated 7th film in The Fast and the Furious franchise. Aptly titled "Furious 7" (man these names are getting ridiculous, Fast Five, Furious 7...?). #Furious7 is also the final film to feature the late Paul Walker reprising his role as Brian O'Connor who passed away last year.

Check it out

Iron Man 2 (2010) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 02:58:00 +0000

The sequel to the smash hit! Robert Downey Jr. returns as billionaire philanthropist Tony Stark turned superhero Iron Man. In this film the government is trying to take the Iron Man suit from him this way they can use it for their own needs, or duplication and such. Meanwhile a villain from Russia, Ivan Vanko builds a similar armoured weapon to combat Stark, a quest for his own vengeance against the Stark family. He then joins forces with business rival Justin Hammer to bring down Stark and develop more advanced weapons.

Mickey Rourke as Ivan Vanko/Whiplash

One of Stark's new armours

Downey Jr. of course is simply astonishing in the role. The man was born to play Tony Stark...scrap that he IS Tony Stark. In this film we see Stark struggle with some inner demons, he learns he may be dying. The arc reactor he has at his heart that disinfects and helps sustain him from the shrapnel damage he received in the middle east is deteriorating. Stark in his own sadness begins becoming reckless and turning to alcohol. This causes him to have a fallout with his best friend Col. Rhodes (now played by Don Cheadle), that Rhodes even takes his new prototype Iron Man armour for himself and the military. The silver "War Machine" armour.

Col. Rhodes is the War Machine

Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow

The film also begins delving more into Marvel characters as we see Samuel L Jackson's Nick Fury full fledged debut and his S.H.I.E.L.D. agents, notably Natasha Romanoff/ The Black Widow played by the sexy Scarlett Johansson. She is badass, like seriously she will man handle anyone in a room. The inclusion of these characters really helped lay more groundwork for the Cinematic Universe to proceed.

The effects and action sequences are top notch and just as great as in the first film. Jon Favreau is a great director and has really helped bring to life these new characters. The fight sequence between Iron Man and Whiplash (Vanko) in Monte Carlo and notably the ending showdown between Iron Man & War Machine vs Hammer's weapons was exhilarating. I also really liked seeing Stark's downward spiral and drinking causing the people to lose faith in him and his Iron Man weapon, including his best friend. In this film we also finally see Stark and Pepper Pots develop into a relationship. The chemistry that was there from the start finally hit where we all knew it would go. Before all this happens Tony even promotes her to CEO of Stark Industries.

Overall: Iron Man 2 is solid sequel, it develops its characters even more and really sets the stage for future films and the eventual Avengers team-up. The first Iron Man film yes is better, but this is a superb sequel and one of the better superhero sequels. 8/10

IRON MAN 2

Directed By

Jon Favreau

Written By

Justin Theroux

CAST

Robert Downey Jr.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Don Cheadle

Scarlett Johansson

Sam Rockwell

Mickey Rourke

Samuel L. Jackson

The Incredible Hulk (2008) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Sun, 02 Nov 2014 02:24:00 +0000

After Iron Man blew away its audience leaving everyone amazed, Marvel was also gearing up to release The Incredible Hulk, the second film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 1. This is the second attempt at bringing the Hulk to the big screen. The first was 2003's "Hulk," directed by Ang Lee. That film failed to find an audience and was mostly divided amongst opinion. Most of the complaints were it was too dark, dramatic and tragic for Hulk film and it didn't feature the title character do enough of his signature smashing. Other criticisms were the Hulk's monstrous size and his growth the angrier he gets.

The Incredible Hulk is a complete reboot, it ignores the events of that film and starts fresh. What I also liked about this film was it was able to delve right in without out right spending an hour on an origin story. We get our origin through the credits sequence, as we see the Gama radiation accident that caused Dr. Bruce Banner to become the Hulk. The film following the titles/brief origin picks up with Banner hiding in South America, working various jobs (specifically factory worker) but also trying to reach out to people who may cure him. Banner is also trying to control his anger, the source to awakening his alter ego, through mediation.

Edward Norton as Bruce Banner

Edward Norton plays Banner. Norton is excellent in the role and I thought (At first) it was a real shame that we wouldn't see him return to the role after negotiations with himself and Marvel fell through. In Norton's Banner we see his struggle in trying to find himself a cure as well as his outsider feeling he has while in hiding. Banner is in love with Betty Ross, the daughter of the General who is trying to bring in Banner. Banner simply wants to love her, but is unsure if he can but also wants to protect her.

Banner's journey is great from South America, bringing him back to New York and eventually be hunted. The scenes where Banner Hulks out are extraordinary. Again Marvel pulls out all the stops with its CGI effects. The Hulk looks very real, the close ups are great and the action sequences he is featured in are top notch. Its just great fun watching him smash every object in site.

The Hulk

Tim Roth plays Emil Blonsky, a soldier assigned to a task force to take down the Hulk. Blonsky is fascinated by his strength and power that he lusts for it himself. He is injected with a serum to combat him but it goes very wrong. It deforms him but increases his strength, ability and size to Hulk like levels, making him the Abomination. The ending fight in Harlem between the Hulk and the Abomination is no doubt the highlight of the film and what everyone wanted to see in a Hulk film the first time around.

The ending is also great with the Hulk once again going into hiding. It is at the end where we see a huge highlight in the film, Robert Downey Jr. cameos as Tony Stark (from Iron Man), where he states to Gen. Ross that he is helping "build a team."

Overall: The Incredible Hulk is a very enjoyable film and a very underrated one in the Marvel cannon. Norton was great in the role as was his supporting cast. The film had great CGI and action sequences, great pacing and a good story for a Hulk film. Also I really liked the "days without incident"count to accompany scenes with Banner. I give it about a 7.5 to 8/10

The Incredible Hulk

Directed By

Louis Leterrier

Written By

Zak Penn

CAST

Edward Norton

Liv Tyler

Tim Roth
William Hurt

Iron Man (2008) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:46:00 +0000

Iron Man poster

I will now be kicking off my reviews of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, starting with its jump off point IRON MAN. Iron Man was a film that had a very high risk factor to it. Iron Man while popular amongst comic book fans, it wasn't necessarily a huge name for the casual audience. The film also serves as the first film being produced by Marvel Studios independently (although released through Paramount). However upon release we learned that with Robert Downey Jr. in the title role, and Jon Favreau behind the camera it was a match made in Heaven.

Stark suits up

Iron Man is spectacular film making and still stands as one of the best in the genre. Downey Jr. is very charismatic as Tony Stark, the arrogant, cocky billionaire, playboy, arms manufacturer who after a few months capture in a middle eastern cave by terrorists decides to use his resources not only to escape but to build a device that will stabilize himself after deadly pieces of shrapnel were blown into him, the Arc Reactor, and as well as develop a weapon that only he can use, the Iron Man suit. Downey Jr. feels right at home in the role, its like we knew Tony Stark forever.

The effects showcasing the computer simulation "Jarvis" within Stark's helmet are top notch

The effects are great specifically in scenes showcasing the Iron Man armour in action. The CGI effects and action are top notch and thrilling and above all look pretty damn real. Plus Tony Stark's mansion filled with various computer simulations and software is simply astonishing and a dream house.

Tony Stark's home

In Iron Man we are also introduced to Col. Rhodes, Tony's best friend (played by Terrence Howard), Pepper Potts (Played by Gweneth Paltrow), she is Tony's personal assistant and potential love interest. The film also introduces us to Obadiah Stane, Tony's VP and upon his disappearance acting CEO of Stark Industries. Stane becomes the villain the Iron Monger, he attempts to duplicate Stark's arc reactor technology and use Stark's Mach 1 armour he designed in the cave. It turns out Stane was the one responsible for Stark's kidnap in the Middle East.

The film's ending climax showdown between Stark and Stane was great CGI fun. Fareau proved himself as a top notch director in this film. The ending is now a memorable and iconic scene in which Stark hold a press conference to address the Iron Man hero and cover up his whereabouts only to go on and say: "the truth is........I am Iron Man," ending the film with the press jumping for pictures and comments while Black Sabbath's Iron Man song ends the film. Excellent and a perfect way to kick off a franchise that literally no one saw coming.

Post Credits: we have our first Marvel Cinematic Universe post credits scene introducing Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, director of S.H.I.E.L.D. where he informs Stark about the upcoming "Avengers Initiative."

Overall: Iron Man stands as one of the best comic book adaptions of all time. Robert Downey Jr. is perfectly casted as our title hero, and this film is a wondrous start to the Iron Man films and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

9/10

Iron Man

Directed By

Jon Favreau

Written By

Mark Fergus

Hawk Otsby

Art Marcum
Matt Holloway

CAST

Robert Downey Jr.

Terrence Howard

Jeff Bridges

Shaun Toub

Gwyneth Paltrow

Iron Man trailer

Marvel Phase 3 Announced

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 15:43:00 +0000

Oh my God it is great to be a comic book movie fan in this day in age. Movies on top of movies, tv shows on top of shows. The DC vs Marvel Cold War continues. Last week Marvel gave us our teaser trailer for Avengers: Age of Ultron which looks totally and completely awesome! This looks like an intense follow up to 2012's smash hit The Avengers. Avengers: Age of Ultron (and Ant-Man) is the end of phase 2, and now we were awarded with out Phase 3 lineup!

Our list here it comes!!!!:
Captain America: Civil War (May 6, 2016)
Doctor Strange (November 4, 2016)
Thor: Ragnarok (July 28, 2017)
Black Panther (November 3, 2017)
Captain Marvel (July 6, 2018)
Inhumans (November 2 2018)

This is great news, Marvel is giving us the long awaited and massive Civil War storyline which features Captain America and Iron Man going head to head. No doubt the events of Age of Ultron will impact this film. Also receiving a Thor 3 is great, Ragnarok is supposedly a cyborg type of Thor double, it will be interesting how this plays out. Its also cool that we are going to get to see some lesser known characters like Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Doctor Strange and notably the Inhumans come to the big screen.

BUT WAIT THERE"S MORE, here is the BIG ONE:

Yup, Oh MY God! The 3rd Avengers is going to be a 2 part epic film coming out first May 2018 and the second part in May 2019. This will be the big lead up that was rumoured since the end of even the first Avengers. And that is seeing our heroes face off against Thanos and the inclusion of the Infinity Gauntlets as teased at Marvel's press conference. This is awesome news by Marvel Studios, these guys are doing everything right and are only continuing to grow their massive cinematic universe. I personally think by the time Avengers Infinity War Part II ends that Marvel Cinematic Universe's glory days may be over. I can't see Robert Downey Jr. or Chris Evans characters' staying on longer than that. I believe the universe will continue with its smaller and lesser known characters but the bulk will come to its action packed climax here, which by no means is that a bad thing.

All we can do is speculate but for the time being lets enjoy where our current Phase 2 is at with the teaser trailer for Avengers: Age of Ultron

Check out the Avengers: Age of Ultron trailer

Goodfellas (1990) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Tue, 28 Oct 2014 17:56:00 +0000

Original Film Poster

"As far back as I can remember I always wanted to be a gangster," these opening lines will forever eco throughout film history. Goodfellas is the true story of Henry Hill, an Irish-Italian boy who ends up befriending local gangsters. The film chronicles 30 years of his life as he rises through the Cicero Crew, a regime within one of New York's most dangerous and powerful Mafia families, the Lucchese's.

Ray Liotta as Henry Hill

Goodfellas is director Martin Scorsese's masterpiece. Scorsese has always proven himself to be one of, if not the best director of all time with masterpieces such as Mean Streets, Taxi Driver, and notably Raging Bull (in the following years, Casino, The Departed and The Wolf of Wall Street), but Goodfellas stands as his magnum opus. With the film's non-linear storytelling from the opening and iconic murder of Billy Bats in the trunk of Henry's car by Jimmy (Robert De Niro) and Tommy (Joe Pesci), we then see Hill's childhood. After receiving a job at the local Mob-run cab stand we see as his life changes. The respect he gains by hanging around with and eventually becoming a gangster. Ray Liotta plays Henry Hill and he shines. Liotta gives us an intense performance and his narration throughout the film really helps us understand Hill and perhaps even relate to him. Liotta with Scorsese's direction really helps us outline the main point, Hill loved being a gangster. He loved the life of luxury, life of crime and all the benefits and perks that came with it. The glamour of being a gangster. From extortion's, to trafficking and his role in the iconic Lufthansa Heist, to his eventual addiction to drugs and flip to government witness where he does something he clearly didn't want to do (but had no choice) and that was do the exact opposite of what De Niro's Jimmy Conway told him towards the film's beginning. He ratted on his friends and didn't keep his mouth shut.

Robert De Niro as Jimmy Conway

Ray Liotta (Henry Hill) and Lorraine Bracco (Karen Hill)

The film's supporting cast is top notch and a true stand out. Hell, they even steal the spotlight from our main star on numerous occasions. We have Robert De Niro playing famed gangster James "Jimmy the Gent" Conway (real life name James Burke), an Irishman and often associate to NY Mafia families. Jimmy loved to steal, he loved being a criminal "Jimmy was the kinda guy who rooted for the bad guys in the movies," Hill states. De Niro is arguably the greatest actor to ever live and as you might expect delivers a knockout performance. Despite being more of a supporting role rather than our main player his role as smooth, calm and calculating gangster Jimmy Conway stands as one of De Niro's most iconic performances. Lorraine Bracco portrays Karen Hill, Henry's wife. She at first plays the needy woman who wanted to be with Henry, to eventually loving the glamorous lifestyle. Karen then becomes fed up with Hill's infidelity and life of crime, until she eventually helps him in trafficking cocaine, but never the less stays by him (throughout the film at least) and goes into witness protection with him. Paul Sorvino plays Paul Cicero. The Caporegime/Captain of the Cicero Crew that Henry, Jimmy and Tommy are associates to. Every heist, operation or activity, Paulie as their superior takes a cut of. Paulie acts almost as a surrogate father to Henry.

Paul Sorvino as Paul Cicero

Joe Pesci as Tommy DeVito

Here's the role that everyone knows this film for. Joe Pesci is Tommy DeVito. The scene stealer and one of my all time faourite performances in film history. Pesci plays a psychotic "cowboy" of a gangster. Tommy is the definition of small man syndrome, one who is afraid of no one, one that will keep coming at you, one who isn't afraid to pull the trigger. With his explosive temper, his rants, and constant swearing to his eventual murders for completely outrageous reasons. Yet the real Hill claims Pesci's performance as Tommy was very much in line with his real life counterpart, who himself was a completely homicidal gangster. DeVito kills a "made man" simply for cracking jokes about shining shoes. He shoots a bartender in the foot for forgetting his drink, next time he saw him he killed him. Tommy eventually was told he would become a Made Man and officially inducted into the Mafia hierarchy as a soldier to the Cicero Crew, this in turn lead to Tommy being killed in retaliation for killing a Made Man from another Mafia family without permission*. No one is more perfect for this role than Pesci. He's so believable and he is scary. He won an Oscar for this performance no doubt.

Tommy kills Spider the Bartender

* In case you don't understand Mafia rules. A Made Man is someone who is officially recognized as a Mafia member, they would hold the rank of Soldier or higher (such as Captain, Underboss, Consigliere or "the Boss"), when you're made you are officially part of a Family, this makes you untouchable, the family will vouch for you. As Hill puts it, it basically gives you a license to do whatever you want. Batts was a member of the Gambino Family, another Mafia family. Tommy was simply an associate to the Lucchese family, as an associate he works with them but is not officially a made man. Thus Tommy whacking out a made man without permission from the Gambino and Lucchese Boss' passing down the order through Paulie to Tommy is cause for retaliation of Tommy's murder.Hill states in real life Tommy's alleged assassin was none other than reputed and famed gangster John Gotti.

With the various quick cuts and narration scenes, Scorsese was able to highlight three decades of Hill's life in the Mafia and various associates he knew. The film was even able to outline that Hill and Conway devised the plan for the infamous Lufthansa Heist, an airport robbery which at the time was the biggest heist to ever occur on US soil. The montage of each associate involved getting whacked for not keeping quiet about it (on Jimmy's orders) is an iconic scene. Each character is developed fully, from Henry's rise and fall, to Tommy's homicidal tendencies eventually causing him to get "whacked" for Billy Batts' murder and Jimmy and Paulie going to prison for their various criminal activities. Goodfellas outlines what life in the Mafia was really like, less romanticized than The Godfather and more gritty and realistic. Goodfellas is perfect from its acting, pacing, the flow of each character's life story and a spot on soundtrack including the use of Gimme Shelter by the Rolling Stones, a song that would be incorporated in Scorsese's gangster films (Casino and The Departed) to follow.

Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, Paul Sorvino, Martin Scorsese and Joe Pesci

Conclusion: Goodfellas is simply a masterpiece and the most important film of the 1990's. To this day it still stands as Scorsese's crown jewel. The film is PERFECT.

Goodfellas

Directed by

Martin Scorsese

Written By

Nicholas Pileggi and Martin Scorsese

Based on the life of

Henry Hill

CAST

Robert De Niro

Ray Liotta

Joe Pesci

Lorraine Bracco

Paul Sorvino

Academy Award Wins:

Best Supporting Actor: Joe Pesci

Academy Award Nominations:

Best Picture

Best Director (Scorsese)

Best Film Editing

Best Adapted Screenplay

Best Supporting Actress (Lorraine Bracco)

Man of Steel (2013) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Thu, 23 Oct 2014 03:55:00 +0000

One of the film's many posters

"They will race behind you, they will stumble, they will fall but in time they will join you in the sun. In time you will help them accomplish wonders." Deep dialogue said in a wondrous performance by Russell Crowe as Jor-El, a quote that truly outlines what Superman truly stands for.

Henry Cavill stands tall as Superman

Man of Steel is the long awaited reboot to the Superman film series produced by THE MAN Christopher Nolan, director of The Dark Knight Trilogy and directed by Zack Snyder. Man of Steel is a relaunching the character for a new generation, as well as modernizing the character very much in line with DC's New 52 and Earth One interpretations. Henry Cavill dons the cape and iconic "S" shield, but as a true Superman fan you should know...its not an S, on Krypton it means Hope, as well as the family crest of the House of El. Cavill's Superman is amazing! Seriously, the guy is excellent he was able to be the kind hearted and shining symbol of heroic justice that Superman is but without being too much of a boyscout or corny as past interpretations of the character are. Cavill's take is a much more grounded take on a not so grounded character which works perfectly. He is the best Superman since Christopher Reeve and on top of that probably the perfect portrayal of the modern character. His Clark Kent is spectacular as it takes the "Smallville" approach, we see him struggling to find his place in the world as we see in the beginning portion of the film drifting all over finding different jobs to fit in but can't resist using his powers for good and to help those who need it.

The film's darker take is the perfect tone. Its not too dark as a Batman film would be but its dark enough to be taken more seriously. Zack Snyder was an excellent choice to direct this film. Snyder having previously done 300 and Watchmen is an expert in bringing to life comic book adaptions. This film was no exception. We see his strong visuals and hard hitting CGI effects, all the things essential for a Superman film by today's standards.

Russell Crowe as Jor-El

David S. Goyer of The Dark Knight Trilogy is our screenwriter and he brings us a Superman story for the ages. From the moment we see the film open on Krypton you know you are in for a ride. The CGI and visuals for it are astonishing, and its a different take on the planet than previously seen. Many may be used to the crystal/ice look of Krypton on the previous Superman films and Smallville but here we get a more organic and space operatic Krypton. It reminded me very much of James Cameron's Avatar. On Krypton we see Russell Crowe as Jor-El trying to warn the council of the planet's impending doom while the renegade General Zod played by Michael Shannon leads a cue to overtake the planet and lead survivors by force. Crowe and Shannon are excellent in their roles. Crowe really giving us that warm hearted, father figure that Marlon Brando gave us in the original and Shannon matching Terrence Stamp's menacing portrayal of Zod. I personally found Shannon's to be more menacing and much more of a monster but one you can't help but sympathize with, he wants to save his race...but on the condition that he rules it. A great twist is before the planet explodes Zod himself is the one who kills Jor-El. They were going to die anyway but this makes Superman's battle with him all the more personal now that Jor-El was personally killed by Zod himself. The Krypton sequence ends of course with baby Kal-El's ship flying to Earth as Krypton is destroyed and Zod and his goons are imprisoned in the Phantom Zone.

Michael Shannon as General Zod

Now the story feels very much like Batman Begins in its non-linear structure as we see Clark travelling the world. We see his flashbacks as a child trying to fit in and always being the outcast. His adoptive parents Jonathan and Martha Kent are played by Kevin Costner and Diane Lane. They help bring out the best in Clark and raised him to be the great man he would become, but always encouraged him to keep his gifts a secret, and as Jonathan says "one day decide to stand proudly in front of the human race, or not." All the while fearless reporter played by the incredibly sexy Amy Adams (yeah she really is) is on the trail of this mysterious drifter with gifts. Unlike comics and past continuities she meets Clark and knows who he is with his powers and all, but she is a friend and wishes to protect him. This is different because she knows about his powers before he is even Superman. It works in a modern context. Yes, their relationship may be a bit rushed but its just pure Lois she is stricken by Superman the minute she lays eyes on him because she is fascinated by him, so I can't really complain in the fast tracked romance, she instantly fell in love with him in the comics too!

Amy Adams as Lois Lane

When Clark uses his Kryptonian data chip in the abandoned ship found deep benath the Arctic it awakens a computer like AI of Jor-El. His speach to Kal-El is emotional and always gives me chills when I watch, and its exhilerating watching him educate his long lost son on his true heritage and the hero he is meant to become. When Clark emerges out of the Fortress in the Superman suit and takes flight for the first time you can't help but have a big smile on your face and just be amazed by the moment. Amazed by Cavill's great performance as Superman and by Snyder's direction and how awesome these flight effects are.

"You're a monster Zod, I'm going to stop you!"

When Zod makes his way to Earth is where the real action starts. He threatens Kal-El to turn himself in or watch his world suffer. Superman proudly does but obviously Zod begins to launch an attack on Earth. Here is where we get the Superman film we've been waiting for. We see Superman just fighting and going toe to toe with Zod's people with some spectacular effects. All the while learning his limits. Many criticized this half of the film for lacking character development......I say this is false. I believe that during Zod's takeover Superman's character is developing as he learns to master his powers, and push himself to his limits and above all know he may potentially die but he is doing so to save his adoptive world he loves so much. Superman's one on one fight wit Zod is pulse pounding and edge of your seat action, you literally feel every hit with the sound and effects.

A glimpse of the badass fight sequences

Superman and Zod battle in Metropolis

And the controversial scene, I found to be PERFECT. Superman having no choice but to snap Zod's kneck. Yup the big blue boy scout actually killed his opponent. It fits because he is a young inexperienced Superman killing the man in defence of a family Zod nearly fries with his heat vision and Superman was not strong enough to hold Zod back from doing so. Superman had to resort to killing the last of his race and ultimately choosing the humans over his own kind, as he does this he lets out a scream and cry of sorrow. Excellent acting by Cavill and it only furthers Superman's character development. I can tell you right now he will not kill again because he will be haunted by this, it simply works perfectly.

Superman attempts to restrain Zod but he is not strong enough;
Zod using his heat vision attempting to burn an innocent family causing
Superman to fatally snap Zod's neck.

I loved the film. As a die hard Superman film its the one I've been waiting for. I love the more edgey modern interpretation of the character and this is right up that alley. I love that Superman/Clark is so sincere as he is known but can be an aggressive demigod when he is pushed. I also love that he is not accepted as a hero right away, it takes that real world approach to how the world and its governments would react if they learned there was someone this powerful that could potentially destroy them all out there. But in Superman's own words the world will "just have to trust me General," and that he is here to help but it has to be on his terms.

Superman hands himself over to the Government before he is
handed over to General Zod

The film ends with Clark deciding to get a job and be right in the middle of the action, and hide in plain sight by dawning a set of glasses and a tie and going to work with his new "close" associate Lois Lane at the Daily Planet newspaper.

Overall: Henry Cavill is an "awesometacular" (thats a shout out to my favourite YouTube movie critic Jeremy Jahns!), the supporting cast is great and Zack Snyder crafted one hell of a comic book film. Not only did he revive Superman for the next generation but this is the starting point to his larger DC Cinematic Universe. 9.5/10 yup, like I said its the Superman film I've been waiting for. Oh I can't wait for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice!

Man of Steel Trailer

The Godfather Part III (1990) Review

noreply@blogger.com (BLOG) — Tue, 21 Oct 2014 01:44:00 +0000

The saga continues in the epic final chapter of the series. Al Pacino is back as Don Michael Corleone in a great and very emotional performance. Michael is now older and repenting for his past crimes as the head of the Corleone Crime Family. Pacino's performance is top notch and as the character aged so has his persona, I liked the fact that now Michael realizes all that he has done and is guilt stricken it thickens the plot and depth, great Pacino performance Don Michael Corleone is still my favourite movie character.

With some good makeup, Al Pacino plays an older, and guilty
Don Michael Corleone

Mafia bosses get whacked. Vincent saves Michael

Andy Garcia plays Vincent Mancini,
Sonny Corleone's illegitimate son. In an Academy
Award Nominated Performance

Trying to legitimize his business by doing work with the church he keeps getting pulled back into the mafia life by his fiery nephew Vincent in a stunning performance by Andy Garcia. Garcia plays Sonny Corleone's illegitimate son Vincent who wants in the family business. His performance is flat out awesome! He shows the intensity, anger and fury that Caan showed playing his father but Vincent's transition to a smooth, cold, calculating and intelligent man under Michael's wing is awesome. Going from a low level mafia soldier to taking the reigns and becoming Michael's successor as Don of the Corleone family is a great scene, one of the best in the series, I love the passing of the torch feel to it, as well as a reprise of Nino Rota's score by Carmine Coppola of when Michael became Don upon ending of Godfather I.

Vincent and his Uncle Michael

The music in the film like the first two is excellent and helps pace the film well and set its mood. However this film is much more emotional, from the Vatican plot, bringing in real life events and conspiracies to Vincent's accent, to Michael's sadness and quest for redemption. There are many memorable scenes from the opening party, the Commission massacre, the Little Italy shooting, Sicily, the plot and ultimately the montage of murders and the film's emotional ending and closing to the trilogy. The ending of this film is truly sad, all the evil Michael committed in his life he truly pays for it in the end stricken with tears, and shock.

I love this film, it is severely underrated, I mean yes the first two Godfather films are better but they are the greatest films of all time nothing compares to them...its no doubt a very tough act to follow. This film is great because it is the end, it closes the trilogy and ties up all lose ends to Don Michael's story. As Coppola himself said The Godfather story is much indeed 2 films, but Part III is simply the epilogue, I respect that and agree with stating III is simply the END. I'd say the only issue with this film is Sofia Coppola, Francis' daughter. She portrays Mary Corleone, Michael's daughter who falls in love with her cousin Vincent, much to Michael's disapproval. Her acting is by no means any good, and its clearly outlined when she shares scene with the greatest of all time himself, Pacino. But somehow, someway I think it did end up fitting for her character. Other supporting cast is great, Talia Shire retruning as Michael's sister Connie in a more powerful and commanding role. Joe Mantegna plays Joey Zasa, the man who runs the Corleone Famly's criminal empire while Michael runs his legitimate business, he is the Street Boss, and very much a nod to John Gotti in persona. We also see Diane Keaton return as Kay Adams, Michael's ex-wife.

Overall: The Godfather Part III is in my opinion probably one of the most underrated films of all time, Francis Ford Coppola once again crafts a genuinely intriguing masterpiece of a film. The Godfather saga ends with a bang. No film compares to the first 2 but as a film, I say it is a masterpiece in its own right and compared to many other films it can't be touched. 10/10 a perfect trilogy.

Vincent becomes Don of the Corleone Family

Michael: Nephew, from this moment you will call yourself Vincent Corleone

THE GODFATHER PART III

Directed by

Francis Ford Coppola

Written By

Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo

Music by

Carmine Coppola

CAST

Al Pacino

Diane Keaton

Talia Shire

Andy Garcia

Elli Wallach

Joe Mantegna

Bridget Fonda

George Hamilton

Sofia Coppola

Academy Award Nominations:

Best Picture

Best Supporting Actor (Andy Garcia)

Best Director (Francis Ford Coppola)

Best Cinematography

Best Art Direction-Set Decoration

Best Film Editing

Best Music, Original Song (Carmine Coppola)