celt6's Recent Comments
DVD and Blu-Ray Details for INCREDIBLE HULK - Aug 28, 2008 - 07:30am
AWESOME! Thanks for the info, Jarrod. I just went to Amazon and pre-ordered the 3-disc SE. I don't usually spend the extra $6, but I really enjoyed this movie and am interested in the extras on this one. As for the "extended cut," I seem to recall Jarrod posting here a few weeks ago that Universal announced they were NOT going to release an extended cut. (which we all promptly denounced, most assuming that they WILL do so in about 3 years, right before or after the Avengers movie hits theaters.)
AWESOME! Thanks for the info, Jarrod. I just went to Amazon and pre-ordered the 3-disc SE. I don't usually spend the extra $6, but I really enjoyed this movie and am interested in the extras on this one. As for the "extended cut," I seem to recall Jarrod posting here a few weeks ago that Universal announced they were NOT going to release an extended cut. (which we all promptly denounced, most assuming that they WILL do so in about 3 years, right before or after the Avengers movie hits theaters.)
Comicscape: Warner Bros. Takes DC to the Movies - Aug 27, 2008 - 02:30pm
Far be it from me to polish someone's ego, but Hanso... I agree with you totally, and may well nominate you for messiah of Mania. lol I think your take on what Robinov meant is probably pretty accurate, and SR did suck as much as TDK ruled. Superman needs to fight Parasite, Doomsday, or some other super-villain who can handle a punch. We need to see Superman get into a decent melee. I'm no supporter of most production decisions in Hollywood, but let's all just hold our breaths and wait to see what WB does. The light at the end of the tunnel may be an oncoming train, but we can wait a bit before we jump off the tracks.
Far be it from me to polish someone's ego, but Hanso... I agree with you totally, and may well nominate you for messiah of Mania. lol I think your take on what Robinov meant is probably pretty accurate, and SR did suck as much as TDK ruled. Superman needs to fight Parasite, Doomsday, or some other super-villain who can handle a punch. We need to see Superman get into a decent melee. I'm no supporter of most production decisions in Hollywood, but let's all just hold our breaths and wait to see what WB does. The light at the end of the tunnel may be an oncoming train, but we can wait a bit before we jump off the tracks.
DEATH RACE - Aug 24, 2008 - 09:42pm
And some people shouldn't be so sensitive. If you're going to stick your neck out, expect it to get swung at. It happens. It's not bullying. No one asked for anyone's lunch money, or said "get off these boards." It was meant in good fun. Personally, I meant no offense. Sorry if you got your feelings hurt or something.
And some people shouldn't be so sensitive. If you're going to stick your neck out, expect it to get swung at. It happens. It's not bullying. No one asked for anyone's lunch money, or said "get off these boards." It was meant in good fun. Personally, I meant no offense. Sorry if you got your feelings hurt or something.
Box Office Update: THUNDER Strikes Twice at B.O. - Aug 24, 2008 - 09:37pm
Even if there WERE boobies in House Bunny, they wouldn't likely be very impressive. Not that I'm one to EVER discount the tremendous drawing power of the beautiful female breast, but Anna Faris isn't exactly sporting an awe-inspiring pair, and the rest of that cast of A-list extras isn't going to be blowing anyone's mind either (though I wouldn't rule out any blowing in regards to how they GOT those roles in the first place). Wait! I just rechecked the cast of House Bunny... Kat Dennings is in that film, and her 40 DDs force me to retract the above statement. I apologize to any that were offended by my insensitive rush to uninformed judgement. Wow. That's a conundrum... would you rather sit and watch Waterworld and try to figure out where all that water came from (since, even if the polar ice caps melted thoroughly and the planet wasn't annihilated by the damage that would do to the weather and ozone levels, etc., there wouldn't be NEARLY enough water to drown the world like that) or sit and watch Superman Returns and try to figure out what the &^#$@% Lex Luthor was thinking, assuming that he and his three thugs and their helicopter would be able to fend off the armies of the world in order to build condos and sell them on something made of razor sharp slabs of radioactive slate. It makes my head hurt. evil, TDK would only have been ruined if we'd all been subjected to a naked Christian Bale. I got more than enough of that sight watching American Psycho. No thanks. Don't want any more reason to burn my eyes out of my head. And Maggie G. is about as attractive as Marge Simpson's sisters. If any of you wants an eyeful of hot woman (though, tragically, not naked), check out Death Race. It's a decent "future prison" film of the 80s with better gore and FX, but Natalie Martinez is RIDICULOUSLY hot. I've designated her as my new "stalkee."
Even if there WERE boobies in House Bunny, they wouldn't likely be very impressive. Not that I'm one to EVER discount the tremendous drawing power of the beautiful female breast, but Anna Faris isn't exactly sporting an awe-inspiring pair, and the rest of that cast of A-list extras isn't going to be blowing anyone's mind either (though I wouldn't rule out any blowing in regards to how they GOT those roles in the first place). Wait! I just rechecked the cast of House Bunny... Kat Dennings is in that film, and her 40 DDs force me to retract the above statement. I apologize to any that were offended by my insensitive rush to uninformed judgement. Wow. That's a conundrum... would you rather sit and watch Waterworld and try to figure out where all that water came from (since, even if the polar ice caps melted thoroughly and the planet wasn't annihilated by the damage that would do to the weather and ozone levels, etc., there wouldn't be NEARLY enough water to drown the world like that) or sit and watch Superman Returns and try to figure out what the &^#$@% Lex Luthor was thinking, assuming that he and his three thugs and their helicopter would be able to fend off the armies of the world in order to build condos and sell them on something made of razor sharp slabs of radioactive slate. It makes my head hurt. evil, TDK would only have been ruined if we'd all been subjected to a naked Christian Bale. I got more than enough of that sight watching American Psycho. No thanks. Don't want any more reason to burn my eyes out of my head. And Maggie G. is about as attractive as Marge Simpson's sisters. If any of you wants an eyeful of hot woman (though, tragically, not naked), check out Death Race. It's a decent "future prison" film of the 80s with better gore and FX, but Natalie Martinez is RIDICULOUSLY hot. I've designated her as my new "stalkee."
DVD Review of Witchblade the Complete Series - Aug 24, 2008 - 12:36pm
I liked this show enough to watch it when it was on. I think Yancy Butler is rather attractive, though she does lack the proportions and curves of a Silvestri woman. And I totally agree that she does not come across as the most sensuous or delicate of women, but having never read the comic, I wasn't sure if that was true to the character or not. Nottingham always came across to me as a character unsure of his own sexuality - I couldn't figure out if he was in love with Sara or a closeted gay man. Cistaro was quite brilliant as Irons. I think your Lex Luthor analogy is spot on. The rest of the cast was pretty much space filler, other than Will Yun Lee, who seemed occasionally under-used.Once they did the time-warp/re-boot/ret-con thing at the end of season 1, I lost interest, assuming that I couldn't get too invested in a show that was going to constantly undo itself when the producers were unhappy with something. I think a B is a good grade for the show (+ or - depending on the individual viewers tastes and preferences).I never knew about Miss Butler's alcoholism. That's too bad.
I liked this show enough to watch it when it was on. I think Yancy Butler is rather attractive, though she does lack the proportions and curves of a Silvestri woman. And I totally agree that she does not come across as the most sensuous or delicate of women, but having never read the comic, I wasn't sure if that was true to the character or not. Nottingham always came across to me as a character unsure of his own sexuality - I couldn't figure out if he was in love with Sara or a closeted gay man. Cistaro was quite brilliant as Irons. I think your Lex Luthor analogy is spot on. The rest of the cast was pretty much space filler, other than Will Yun Lee, who seemed occasionally under-used.Once they did the time-warp/re-boot/ret-con thing at the end of season 1, I lost interest, assuming that I couldn't get too invested in a show that was going to constantly undo itself when the producers were unhappy with something. I think a B is a good grade for the show (+ or - depending on the individual viewers tastes and preferences).I never knew about Miss Butler's alcoholism. That's too bad.
Bond's SOLACE Moves Back a Week - Aug 21, 2008 - 08:53pm
Casino Royale wasn't just cool, it was off-the-fucking-chain awesome. I can't wait for Quantum of Solace. I was a HUGE fan of Connery, some Brosnan, and even a couple of the Moore Bond films, but Daniel Craig's Bond really shows us the sonofabitch that James Bond was in the books. I would like to see them work in a couple of small gadgets (I LOVED the briefcase in From Russia With Love), but nothing over-the-top. I totally agree with makabriel that the more recent Bond films included gadgets that were impractical, unrealistic (beyond even what a good suspension of disbelief could handle), and even outright silly. Hanso, it's been moved to Nov 14. It sucks, but at least it does eliminate the worry of Madagascar 2 stealing some of its thunder.
Casino Royale wasn't just cool, it was off-the-fucking-chain awesome. I can't wait for Quantum of Solace. I was a HUGE fan of Connery, some Brosnan, and even a couple of the Moore Bond films, but Daniel Craig's Bond really shows us the sonofabitch that James Bond was in the books. I would like to see them work in a couple of small gadgets (I LOVED the briefcase in From Russia With Love), but nothing over-the-top. I totally agree with makabriel that the more recent Bond films included gadgets that were impractical, unrealistic (beyond even what a good suspension of disbelief could handle), and even outright silly. Hanso, it's been moved to Nov 14. It sucks, but at least it does eliminate the worry of Madagascar 2 stealing some of its thunder.
DEATH RACE - Aug 21, 2008 - 08:46pm
Hanso, he's not gay... he's 300 lbs, living in his parents garage, and busy convincing himself that women are a waste of time (blah, blah, blah) in those short moments in between Star Trek DVD changes (no offense to you Trekkies out there). First off, being a parent ROCKS. It's more fun than almost anything in life (and I still manage to see every movie I want, collect comics, and hang with friends). And all those movies, comics, games, etc. are even better when you get to share them with a little kid. My daughter is 4 1/2 and can already name the founding members of the Justice League, can identify 90% of Batman's rogues gallery on sight, loves Iron Man, and knows most of the major Transformers characters. As for your concern, akobus, about pregnancy, disease, etc., you should know that there's a recent invention (as of about 2000 years ago) that we men can use. It's called a "condom." Oh, and don't kid yourself: sex is ALWAYS worth it. As for Death Race, I'm goin to check it out next week (it seems worth the price of a matinee). And yes, one of the main reasons I'm going is to stare at Natalie Martinez.
Hanso, he's not gay... he's 300 lbs, living in his parents garage, and busy convincing himself that women are a waste of time (blah, blah, blah) in those short moments in between Star Trek DVD changes (no offense to you Trekkies out there). First off, being a parent ROCKS. It's more fun than almost anything in life (and I still manage to see every movie I want, collect comics, and hang with friends). And all those movies, comics, games, etc. are even better when you get to share them with a little kid. My daughter is 4 1/2 and can already name the founding members of the Justice League, can identify 90% of Batman's rogues gallery on sight, loves Iron Man, and knows most of the major Transformers characters. As for your concern, akobus, about pregnancy, disease, etc., you should know that there's a recent invention (as of about 2000 years ago) that we men can use. It's called a "condom." Oh, and don't kid yourself: sex is ALWAYS worth it. As for Death Race, I'm goin to check it out next week (it seems worth the price of a matinee). And yes, one of the main reasons I'm going is to stare at Natalie Martinez.
Top Maniacal Rumors: More Hulk, Raimi Flashbacks and Craven Screams - Aug 03, 2008 - 09:45pm
Hanso, I'm totally with you on the McCono-stoner as Capt. America. WTF?! Personally, I'm voting for Josh Holloway (Sawyer from Lost) as Cap - he has the square jaw look, just not sure if he can act as anything other than Sawyer - and Gerard Butler as Thor. Barrowman doesn't have the look at ALL. And having watched a snippet of him from "Shark Attack 3: Megalodon"... ah, no. No. No. NO! NO NO NO NO NO! Don't care if he's gay or not, dude can't pull off the command presence to be Cap. Sorry. Did I mention "DEAR GOD, NO!!"
Hanso, I'm totally with you on the McCono-stoner as Capt. America. WTF?! Personally, I'm voting for Josh Holloway (Sawyer from Lost) as Cap - he has the square jaw look, just not sure if he can act as anything other than Sawyer - and Gerard Butler as Thor. Barrowman doesn't have the look at ALL. And having watched a snippet of him from "Shark Attack 3: Megalodon"... ah, no. No. No. NO! NO NO NO NO NO! Don't care if he's gay or not, dude can't pull off the command presence to be Cap. Sorry. Did I mention "DEAR GOD, NO!!"
HARRY POTTER 6 Trailer Online - Jul 29, 2008 - 08:48pm
I found the trailer on YouTube. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eApqIlkMA_c
I found the trailer on YouTube. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eApqIlkMA_c
First Trailer for MAX PAYNE Leaked - Jul 10, 2008 - 07:56pm
I played both games as well. As blacky mentioned above, don't forget the nightmare levels... I get the feeling that the angels we see are there symbolically, not literally. The "Angel of Death" that follows Max around on his quest for vengeance. Or something like that. ;) I thought Hitman was a waste, and I never really liked the games much. I LOVED both Max Payne games (totally agree that the second was too short... and why no third?!), so my hopes are way too high for this already. Using the "bullet time" from the game might make it too "Matrix" and lose viewers by comparison. But the diving, running, and shooting all looked great, like it was right out of the vein of the games. JD, if you have doubts about Wahlberg as an action movie guy, you need to see "Shooter." Implausible conspiracy plot, but damn good movie overall and Wahlberg really does come off like a modern day Carlos-Hathcock-meets-John-McClane. See it.
I played both games as well. As blacky mentioned above, don't forget the nightmare levels... I get the feeling that the angels we see are there symbolically, not literally. The "Angel of Death" that follows Max around on his quest for vengeance. Or something like that. ;) I thought Hitman was a waste, and I never really liked the games much. I LOVED both Max Payne games (totally agree that the second was too short... and why no third?!), so my hopes are way too high for this already. Using the "bullet time" from the game might make it too "Matrix" and lose viewers by comparison. But the diving, running, and shooting all looked great, like it was right out of the vein of the games. JD, if you have doubts about Wahlberg as an action movie guy, you need to see "Shooter." Implausible conspiracy plot, but damn good movie overall and Wahlberg really does come off like a modern day Carlos-Hathcock-meets-John-McClane. See it.
Tarantino's War BASTARDS Preps for October Start - Jul 09, 2008 - 07:08am
I remember reading about this once before... didn't it involve Lee Marvin, Telly Savalas, and Jim Brown? HELLO! The plot reads like a remake of the "Dirty Dozen"... or am I supposed to now use the politically correct term "re-imagining"?
I remember reading about this once before... didn't it involve Lee Marvin, Telly Savalas, and Jim Brown? HELLO! The plot reads like a remake of the "Dirty Dozen"... or am I supposed to now use the politically correct term "re-imagining"?
Comicscape: Five Reasons Why Comics Are Better Than Movies - Jul 09, 2008 - 07:02am
Kurt... seriously... Indiana Jones 4? In a few years, everyone is going to refer to it as "oh... the one with the aliens?" in the same tone that is usually used when referencing an ugly knit sweater you received at Christmas from some near-sighted aunt. It was totally out of the vein of the previous films. No supernatural or religious references, too much of the "cute-and-charming" dialogue, and no cool traps to defeat. Admit it... you like it because you WANT to like it, not because it's any good. That being said, I'd like to throw my hat into the ring to replace Ben, once the Feds finally find him and drag him down from the Great White North to lock him up into his secret fantasy place somewhere deep within Leavenworth with a guy named Bubba. I can promise timeliness, good humor, and minimal references to anything with the #2 on it.
Kurt... seriously... Indiana Jones 4? In a few years, everyone is going to refer to it as "oh... the one with the aliens?" in the same tone that is usually used when referencing an ugly knit sweater you received at Christmas from some near-sighted aunt. It was totally out of the vein of the previous films. No supernatural or religious references, too much of the "cute-and-charming" dialogue, and no cool traps to defeat. Admit it... you like it because you WANT to like it, not because it's any good. That being said, I'd like to throw my hat into the ring to replace Ben, once the Feds finally find him and drag him down from the Great White North to lock him up into his secret fantasy place somewhere deep within Leavenworth with a guy named Bubba. I can promise timeliness, good humor, and minimal references to anything with the #2 on it.
Box Office: Paramount Finds Memorial Day Treasure with INDY - May 26, 2008 - 10:20am
Okay, here's my Top 10 theory list for summer: 1) Indiana Jones 4 2) Dark Knight 3) Iron Man 4) Incredible Hulk 5) Wanted 6) Kung Fu Panda 7) Hancock (just because it's Will Smith and July 4th weekend) 8) Hellboy 2 9) CoN: Prince Caspian 10) Wall-E
Okay, here's my Top 10 theory list for summer: 1) Indiana Jones 4 2) Dark Knight 3) Iron Man 4) Incredible Hulk 5) Wanted 6) Kung Fu Panda 7) Hancock (just because it's Will Smith and July 4th weekend) 8) Hellboy 2 9) CoN: Prince Caspian 10) Wall-E
TV Wasteland: Get an Early Look at the New Fall Shows - May 19, 2008 - 10:09am
Oh, for the love of God and all that is holy. I love pretty much everything Joss Whedon has ever done, but we ALL know how Fox works. Didn't he learn from Firefly? They'll play the episodes in the order THEY want them in, they'll cancel or reschedule episodes for American Idol, football, and any other ridiculous, desperate reality-based money grab they can find, change it's time slot 4 times in the first 10 episodes, and then cancel it stating that the show "never quite gained the audience we were hoping for."As ridiculous and sophomoric as its lineup is (except Supernatural), even the CW knows how to keep a show consistent enough to gather a dedicated, if small, following to a show. Hell, they've kept Smallville craptastic but functioning for the last 7 seasons. But Fox will treat any decent genre show they get like the red-headed, white trash cousin that no one wants to invite to Thanksgiving, but has to.I'll watch because a) it's Joss Whedon, and b) I'm desperately in love with Eliza Dushku, but I won't be holding my breath to see the show much past Christmas.
Oh, for the love of God and all that is holy. I love pretty much everything Joss Whedon has ever done, but we ALL know how Fox works. Didn't he learn from Firefly? They'll play the episodes in the order THEY want them in, they'll cancel or reschedule episodes for American Idol, football, and any other ridiculous, desperate reality-based money grab they can find, change it's time slot 4 times in the first 10 episodes, and then cancel it stating that the show "never quite gained the audience we were hoping for."As ridiculous and sophomoric as its lineup is (except Supernatural), even the CW knows how to keep a show consistent enough to gather a dedicated, if small, following to a show. Hell, they've kept Smallville craptastic but functioning for the last 7 seasons. But Fox will treat any decent genre show they get like the red-headed, white trash cousin that no one wants to invite to Thanksgiving, but has to.I'll watch because a) it's Joss Whedon, and b) I'm desperately in love with Eliza Dushku, but I won't be holding my breath to see the show much past Christmas.
IRON MAN - May 02, 2008 - 09:12am
Velgron, your daughter can safely go see it. I'm taking my 4-year old to see it today. There's no blood, no vulgar language, and no sex other than a brief sexual reference where Tony tumbles into bed with a woman and then they roll out of the bed (about 6-8 seconds long).The reviewer is obviously expecting to be dazzled in the same vein as Superman when we were all kids. But the world has turned, CGI is here, we're not kids anymore, and Superman really isn't ALL that dazzling now that we're not. (Can you really go sit and watch the original Superman now without thinking it looks cheezy when he flies over Metropolis and the city rotates behind him on a projection screen as if he's turning over in the air?) There could have been a bit more action, and a bit more development of Obadiah Stane's character. That said, this movie is a VERY strong A-/A. And, as I said above, it is VERY kid-friendly. I rank it up there with the original Spider-Man movie as well as Batman Begins. I can't wait for the sequels!
Velgron, your daughter can safely go see it. I'm taking my 4-year old to see it today. There's no blood, no vulgar language, and no sex other than a brief sexual reference where Tony tumbles into bed with a woman and then they roll out of the bed (about 6-8 seconds long).The reviewer is obviously expecting to be dazzled in the same vein as Superman when we were all kids. But the world has turned, CGI is here, we're not kids anymore, and Superman really isn't ALL that dazzling now that we're not. (Can you really go sit and watch the original Superman now without thinking it looks cheezy when he flies over Metropolis and the city rotates behind him on a projection screen as if he's turning over in the air?) There could have been a bit more action, and a bit more development of Obadiah Stane's character. That said, this movie is a VERY strong A-/A. And, as I said above, it is VERY kid-friendly. I rank it up there with the original Spider-Man movie as well as Batman Begins. I can't wait for the sequels!
Tina Fey's MAMA Beats Harold & Kumar - Apr 28, 2008 - 09:57am
Okay, Jarrod, let me be first to go on record with a guess at Iron Man's box office. If the movie is as good as the trailers make it seem, and the fact that it doesn't get any real competition til May 22, I'm guessing that it should pull in at least 300 million (domestic). First weekend should be close to a 100 million opening - 90 million at least. There's been such a dry spell at the theaters for the last couple months, this should really crack the floodgates of people wanting new blockbusters.
Okay, Jarrod, let me be first to go on record with a guess at Iron Man's box office. If the movie is as good as the trailers make it seem, and the fact that it doesn't get any real competition til May 22, I'm guessing that it should pull in at least 300 million (domestic). First weekend should be close to a 100 million opening - 90 million at least. There's been such a dry spell at the theaters for the last couple months, this should really crack the floodgates of people wanting new blockbusters.
Gordon Lee and the CBLDF Win - Apr 23, 2008 - 09:31am
The new format sucks, people! I want to click in weekly and, without having to search, go to my favorite rant-fest of Mr. Amacker. Surly is right. It's also harder to read the comics list. I'm not sure why you guys had to "fix" what wasn't broken. Please change the site, even if it's back to the old format. This is my favorite website, but trying to access it now is a real pain.
The new format sucks, people! I want to click in weekly and, without having to search, go to my favorite rant-fest of Mr. Amacker. Surly is right. It's also harder to read the comics list. I'm not sure why you guys had to "fix" what wasn't broken. Please change the site, even if it's back to the old format. This is my favorite website, but trying to access it now is a real pain.
CW Renews Smallville and Supernatural - Mar 03, 2008 - 03:12pm
In other words: "NO." Someone at the CW has decided that "an interpretation of the early years of Superman growing up in Smallville" translates in Hollywood-ese to "a complete and utter re-write of the origins of many of DC Comics' most beloved characters to the point that many are barely tolerable, and a wussification of the Man of Steel, reducing him to an invulnerable mass of spineless, whining, overly-emotional Jell-O." Sorry.
In other words: "NO." Someone at the CW has decided that "an interpretation of the early years of Superman growing up in Smallville" translates in Hollywood-ese to "a complete and utter re-write of the origins of many of DC Comics' most beloved characters to the point that many are barely tolerable, and a wussification of the Man of Steel, reducing him to an invulnerable mass of spineless, whining, overly-emotional Jell-O." Sorry.
CW Renews Smallville and Supernatural - Mar 03, 2008 - 03:12pm
In other words: "NO." Someone at the CW has decided that "an interpretation of the early years of Superman growing up in Smallville" translates in Hollywood-ese to "a complete and utter re-write of the origins of many of DC Comics' most beloved characters to the point that many are barely tolerable, and a wussification of the Man of Steel, reducing him to an invulnerable mass of spineless, whining, overly-emotional Jell-O." Sorry.
In other words: "NO." Someone at the CW has decided that "an interpretation of the early years of Superman growing up in Smallville" translates in Hollywood-ese to "a complete and utter re-write of the origins of many of DC Comics' most beloved characters to the point that many are barely tolerable, and a wussification of the Man of Steel, reducing him to an invulnerable mass of spineless, whining, overly-emotional Jell-O." Sorry.
SMALLVILLE: Siren - Feb 11, 2008 - 07:27pm
Jesus, God in Heaven, this show has gone to shit faster than any number of bad superhero analogies I could throw out. But Smallville doesn't even deserve that. Clark Kent has turned into the biggest, dumbest would-be superhero in the history of comicdom. I would think that getting the moral bitch-slap from Oliver Queen every few episodes would get tiresome. And I am tired of the "we're taking liberties with the mythology" bullshit. That's crap producer-speak for "we're trying so hard to cater to the same crowd that watches "The Hills" and "One Tree Hill" that we forgot about that Superman/DC Comics angle a while ago!" When Smallville started, I loved the concept, didn't mind the few liberties they took, as Superman in high school was relatively an untouched part of the character's history. Now they've taken all the major and some minor ingredients of the Superman myth and shaken in like a retarded kid with an ant farm in an earthquake. I was actually so jazzed last season when, in the midst of the neverending soap opera shit-storm of Lana/Clark ("Clana"?), they introduced an updated, but still interesting version of Green Arrow (also the best acted character in the entire show) and threw out the episode titled "Justice" when we see a forerunner of the future Justice League. I thought I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. Turned out in was just the Lana Express coming down the tracks to run us all over AGAIN. For the LOVE of all that is HOLY, we don't CARE about her anymore! She's already outlived not only her comic-related involvement in Clark's life, but her usefulness as a plot device in the show. I was over Lana when she morphed into the Chinese Witch/Kung-Fu entity a few seasons back. Get her off the goddammed show already! I'm tired of it. As is every other watcher of this show that I know of! Send her off to Europe again, or something suitably related, so we can start to right this train wreck and get it back on track. I don't care about the costume as much. I'm fine if we don't see it til the last episode of the series. Let's see some more superhero action, let's see some developing connection between Lois and Clark, and let's see some more cameo superheroes DONE PROPERLY!! The liberties taken with Black Canary in this episode even pissed off my girlfriend, and she's been reading comics for only about a YEAR! WB owns the rights to most of DC's characters, so there's no copyright rules that say that the characters need to only appear as retarded, mutated, "Ultimates"-type shadows of their comic book selves. Hey Millar, you have an entire WORLD and close to 70 years of source material to work with. How about you activate your third brain cell and try not to fuck up something that should otherwise be handed to you on a silver fucking plate. Okay. Rant over. ... For now. ;)
Jesus, God in Heaven, this show has gone to shit faster than any number of bad superhero analogies I could throw out. But Smallville doesn't even deserve that. Clark Kent has turned into the biggest, dumbest would-be superhero in the history of comicdom. I would think that getting the moral bitch-slap from Oliver Queen every few episodes would get tiresome. And I am tired of the "we're taking liberties with the mythology" bullshit. That's crap producer-speak for "we're trying so hard to cater to the same crowd that watches "The Hills" and "One Tree Hill" that we forgot about that Superman/DC Comics angle a while ago!" When Smallville started, I loved the concept, didn't mind the few liberties they took, as Superman in high school was relatively an untouched part of the character's history. Now they've taken all the major and some minor ingredients of the Superman myth and shaken in like a retarded kid with an ant farm in an earthquake. I was actually so jazzed last season when, in the midst of the neverending soap opera shit-storm of Lana/Clark ("Clana"?), they introduced an updated, but still interesting version of Green Arrow (also the best acted character in the entire show) and threw out the episode titled "Justice" when we see a forerunner of the future Justice League. I thought I saw a light at the end of the tunnel. Turned out in was just the Lana Express coming down the tracks to run us all over AGAIN. For the LOVE of all that is HOLY, we don't CARE about her anymore! She's already outlived not only her comic-related involvement in Clark's life, but her usefulness as a plot device in the show. I was over Lana when she morphed into the Chinese Witch/Kung-Fu entity a few seasons back. Get her off the goddammed show already! I'm tired of it. As is every other watcher of this show that I know of! Send her off to Europe again, or something suitably related, so we can start to right this train wreck and get it back on track. I don't care about the costume as much. I'm fine if we don't see it til the last episode of the series. Let's see some more superhero action, let's see some developing connection between Lois and Clark, and let's see some more cameo superheroes DONE PROPERLY!! The liberties taken with Black Canary in this episode even pissed off my girlfriend, and she's been reading comics for only about a YEAR! WB owns the rights to most of DC's characters, so there's no copyright rules that say that the characters need to only appear as retarded, mutated, "Ultimates"-type shadows of their comic book selves. Hey Millar, you have an entire WORLD and close to 70 years of source material to work with. How about you activate your third brain cell and try not to fuck up something that should otherwise be handed to you on a silver fucking plate. Okay. Rant over. ... For now. ;)
Here Today! - Feb 05, 2008 - 11:10am
Hahaha! How ironic, I was just watching my Special Edition of Big Trouble in Little China went I sat down to read this! Don't forget the most important Special Edition ever released: that of the second Aliens (plural) movie. The James Cameron entry into this now-neverending saga of films was and still is the best, but the Special Edition, with the additional scenes of Ripley suffering the loss of her daughter, and particularly the stand-off scenes with the motion-sensor drone cannons add just that much more emotional tension and involvement for the audience. This is the version that SHOULD have been in the theaters and it is also the reason that many of us think that that shiny new Special Edition or Director's Cut might be worth the extra cash. It's why I always compare Run Times between a "standard" DVD and it's Special Edition counterpart before purchasing.
Hahaha! How ironic, I was just watching my Special Edition of Big Trouble in Little China went I sat down to read this! Don't forget the most important Special Edition ever released: that of the second Aliens (plural) movie. The James Cameron entry into this now-neverending saga of films was and still is the best, but the Special Edition, with the additional scenes of Ripley suffering the loss of her daughter, and particularly the stand-off scenes with the motion-sensor drone cannons add just that much more emotional tension and involvement for the audience. This is the version that SHOULD have been in the theaters and it is also the reason that many of us think that that shiny new Special Edition or Director's Cut might be worth the extra cash. It's why I always compare Run Times between a "standard" DVD and it's Special Edition counterpart before purchasing.
Opening the Black Dossier: The Alan Moore Interview, Part One - Nov 07, 2007 - 10:53pm
I just have to say that week after week, I look forward to Spinner Rack for some mid-week humor and your guys' unique brand of tete-a-tete. Thanks to both of you for helping me get through the week. (And, Ben, I agree with Kurt... you need help.)
I just have to say that week after week, I look forward to Spinner Rack for some mid-week humor and your guys' unique brand of tete-a-tete. Thanks to both of you for helping me get through the week. (And, Ben, I agree with Kurt... you need help.)
Marvel's Joe Quesada Talks AVENGERS - Nov 06, 2007 - 10:41pm
Hey, Felcher, I mean Filch... there's a reason he was called Captain AMERICA. You're not supposed to love him. In fact, it's pretty much expected that cowards like the Canadians and French wouldn't like or get what his character is all about. Generally I don't bash other nations, but if you want to open your mouth and spill out some ignorant crap like that, you're pretty much asking for it.
Hey, Felcher, I mean Filch... there's a reason he was called Captain AMERICA. You're not supposed to love him. In fact, it's pretty much expected that cowards like the Canadians and French wouldn't like or get what his character is all about. Generally I don't bash other nations, but if you want to open your mouth and spill out some ignorant crap like that, you're pretty much asking for it.
DC's Noveck Talks JLA, Supes & Batman - Oct 21, 2007 - 09:43am
What a load of shit. They should use Routh and Bale both, and get the actors' input on their individual lines to try to maintain the feel of their respective solo franshises. Also, it wouldn't hurt it Superman were a little tougher than he is in his movies and a little less goofy. I'm tired of the light-hearted Superman fare we've been getting with a goofball Lex Luthor and idiotic plots like the Quest for Peace. Christ, who hires these people?!?!
What a load of shit. They should use Routh and Bale both, and get the actors' input on their individual lines to try to maintain the feel of their respective solo franshises. Also, it wouldn't hurt it Superman were a little tougher than he is in his movies and a little less goofy. I'm tired of the light-hearted Superman fare we've been getting with a goofball Lex Luthor and idiotic plots like the Quest for Peace. Christ, who hires these people?!?!
The New Look of CAPTAIN AMERICA - Oct 13, 2007 - 11:31pm
Okay, I knew I was going to have issues with the new Cap. I was devastated at the death of Steve Rogers having grown up with him as a hero, even through my time in the Army. But I'm guessing his successor will be Winter Soldier/Bucky Barnes, so I'm okay with that. In fact the idea is growing on me. But as for this costume, you can call my feelings a knee-jerk reaction if you want, but I hate it. I mean, I really fucking hate it. Seriously, what the hell is that supposed to be?! He looks like he's wearing his black pajamas with a little Captain America-like symbol on them. He looks like a 5 year old playing in his Captain America underroos. Or like he's stuck halfway out of a wetsuit. It's like they couldn't decide if he was US Agent or Cap. For the love of God, someone fix this, PLEASE! Seeing this, I want to do to Alex Ross what Thor just did to Iron Man - hahaha. Oh, and mckracken, ashsaytr is right. A sidearm weapon is always holstered on the strong side/weapon-hand side. That cross-draw crap is pretty much pure Hollywood. Though a knife would more likely be worn on his back hip or on a shoulder strap/IBE/vest set-up (along with the well-suggested Camelback). A canteen like that would end you up with a bruised hip at best, and a cracked tailbone at worst if you landed on it too hard (speaking as a paratrooper).
Okay, I knew I was going to have issues with the new Cap. I was devastated at the death of Steve Rogers having grown up with him as a hero, even through my time in the Army. But I'm guessing his successor will be Winter Soldier/Bucky Barnes, so I'm okay with that. In fact the idea is growing on me. But as for this costume, you can call my feelings a knee-jerk reaction if you want, but I hate it. I mean, I really fucking hate it. Seriously, what the hell is that supposed to be?! He looks like he's wearing his black pajamas with a little Captain America-like symbol on them. He looks like a 5 year old playing in his Captain America underroos. Or like he's stuck halfway out of a wetsuit. It's like they couldn't decide if he was US Agent or Cap. For the love of God, someone fix this, PLEASE! Seeing this, I want to do to Alex Ross what Thor just did to Iron Man - hahaha. Oh, and mckracken, ashsaytr is right. A sidearm weapon is always holstered on the strong side/weapon-hand side. That cross-draw crap is pretty much pure Hollywood. Though a knife would more likely be worn on his back hip or on a shoulder strap/IBE/vest set-up (along with the well-suggested Camelback). A canteen like that would end you up with a bruised hip at best, and a cracked tailbone at worst if you landed on it too hard (speaking as a paratrooper).
SMALLVILLE: Kara - Oct 08, 2007 - 11:38am
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I seem to remember Clark hovering over his bed in season 1. The no-flying thing was cute through high school. But they graduated 3 seasons ago. They made some passing attempt at justifying his lack of flying, by countering with Kara's lack of super-hearing (I took this as some lame statement that they all gain powers in a different order and at a different rate)... but COME ON! Clark's been awake on Earth for 20 years developing his powers. Kara is awake for 10 minutes and is flying with ease. LAME! Lois and Lana should both be drooling or dead from aneurisms after all the concussions they've suffered in the last 7 seasons (I can only assume that Lois' luck about being rendered senseless didn't just start with her arrival in Smallville). Lana needs to exit the show about 2 seasons ago, to be REPLACED by Lois. And I TOTALLY agree with Stephen that the real Lois should DIE and Chloe should take over Lois' name as her nom d' plum in homage to her very DEAD cousin. My other complaints, while I'm at it: 1) I'm SO tired of Clark's whining. If I weren't already so invested in the show, timewise, I'd quit watching just out of annoyance at his constant mewling about "I don't WANT to be superhuman and have all these cool abilities. It just makes me feel dirty!" SHUT YOUR GOB, MAN! 95% of the people on this planet would LOVE to have HALF those powers. Embrace it, and let's get with the superhero-ing. 2) Lex needs to get with the evil, and stop with the moral confusion. He's been evil in the past and then, like this episode, has these reversions to some former angelic "I'm evil, but I'm TRYING to be GOOD!" repentant Lex that are just insulting to most viewers' intelligence. 3) As mentioned eariler... remove Lana. She's a whiner, she's useless fluff and Clark's long-lost love. Unless they completely re-write the mythos, they can't end up together anyway, so let's move it along. Kristen Kreuk can move on to her future now as CoverGirl model and resident of some crappy late-night soap opera, and we can all get on with the show that we WANT to see. 4) I totally agree with Stephen that this Vandervoort chick playing Kara is a complete mouth-breather. She's NOT that attractive, and she can't act worth a damn either. She must have some serious skills on the casting couch to have gotten this role. Last season's episode "Justice" was a great example of what we've all been waiting and watching this show for. Let's get to it, already.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I seem to remember Clark hovering over his bed in season 1. The no-flying thing was cute through high school. But they graduated 3 seasons ago. They made some passing attempt at justifying his lack of flying, by countering with Kara's lack of super-hearing (I took this as some lame statement that they all gain powers in a different order and at a different rate)... but COME ON! Clark's been awake on Earth for 20 years developing his powers. Kara is awake for 10 minutes and is flying with ease. LAME! Lois and Lana should both be drooling or dead from aneurisms after all the concussions they've suffered in the last 7 seasons (I can only assume that Lois' luck about being rendered senseless didn't just start with her arrival in Smallville). Lana needs to exit the show about 2 seasons ago, to be REPLACED by Lois. And I TOTALLY agree with Stephen that the real Lois should DIE and Chloe should take over Lois' name as her nom d' plum in homage to her very DEAD cousin. My other complaints, while I'm at it: 1) I'm SO tired of Clark's whining. If I weren't already so invested in the show, timewise, I'd quit watching just out of annoyance at his constant mewling about "I don't WANT to be superhuman and have all these cool abilities. It just makes me feel dirty!" SHUT YOUR GOB, MAN! 95% of the people on this planet would LOVE to have HALF those powers. Embrace it, and let's get with the superhero-ing. 2) Lex needs to get with the evil, and stop with the moral confusion. He's been evil in the past and then, like this episode, has these reversions to some former angelic "I'm evil, but I'm TRYING to be GOOD!" repentant Lex that are just insulting to most viewers' intelligence. 3) As mentioned eariler... remove Lana. She's a whiner, she's useless fluff and Clark's long-lost love. Unless they completely re-write the mythos, they can't end up together anyway, so let's move it along. Kristen Kreuk can move on to her future now as CoverGirl model and resident of some crappy late-night soap opera, and we can all get on with the show that we WANT to see. 4) I totally agree with Stephen that this Vandervoort chick playing Kara is a complete mouth-breather. She's NOT that attractive, and she can't act worth a damn either. She must have some serious skills on the casting couch to have gotten this role. Last season's episode "Justice" was a great example of what we've all been waiting and watching this show for. Let's get to it, already.
2007 EMMY Winners - Sep 17, 2007 - 01:44pm
jf... haze yourself. I don't care what Shatner's history, he shouldn't ever be publicly acknowledged again after those Priceline commercials. Lost wasn't as good this season as last. But James Spader?! How about Hugh Laurie? How about Sendhil Ramamurthy? (okay, maybe he's more supporting as part of an ensemble.) James fucking Spader?! Geez.
jf... haze yourself. I don't care what Shatner's history, he shouldn't ever be publicly acknowledged again after those Priceline commercials. Lost wasn't as good this season as last. But James Spader?! How about Hugh Laurie? How about Sendhil Ramamurthy? (okay, maybe he's more supporting as part of an ensemble.) James fucking Spader?! Geez.
THE BRAVE ONE Takes Revenge to Top Spot - Sep 16, 2007 - 06:41pm
Hey Jarrod, what happened to The Kingdom? Did it do SO little this weekend? Or was it a limited release film? I haven't seen it yet, but a very picky friend gave it a positive review. As for October, I'm not much of one for straight up horror - I usually don't have time or patience for moronic protagonists and the even more moronic fodder who get slaughtered en route to a cheesy, predictable ending. I do, however, usually like vampire flicks, so I'd like to see 30 Days of Night do well. Sadly, though, I'm guessing that Saw IV will be the winner.
Hey Jarrod, what happened to The Kingdom? Did it do SO little this weekend? Or was it a limited release film? I haven't seen it yet, but a very picky friend gave it a positive review. As for October, I'm not much of one for straight up horror - I usually don't have time or patience for moronic protagonists and the even more moronic fodder who get slaughtered en route to a cheesy, predictable ending. I do, however, usually like vampire flicks, so I'd like to see 30 Days of Night do well. Sadly, though, I'm guessing that Saw IV will be the winner.
Director Alexander Updates PUNISHER 2 - Aug 23, 2007 - 04:13pm
"& one of Chuck Norris' original trainers." Those guys are still ALIVE?! What, are they sitting in their wheelchairs, attached to colostomy bags, screaming at Ray to work harder on his Total Gym? Hahaha. Okay, jokes aside, I am interested to see this movie. I was initially bummed that Thomas Jane wasn't donning the skull again, but I'm not as fixated on Punisher as with some other characters, so I'm more open to variation.
"& one of Chuck Norris' original trainers." Those guys are still ALIVE?! What, are they sitting in their wheelchairs, attached to colostomy bags, screaming at Ray to work harder on his Total Gym? Hahaha. Okay, jokes aside, I am interested to see this movie. I was initially bummed that Thomas Jane wasn't donning the skull again, but I'm not as fixated on Punisher as with some other characters, so I'm more open to variation.
Update on Warner Bros' JLA Movie - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:43am
I'm completely with Merin on this. Were I a studio head, that's exactly what I'd look to do. Routh is still a complete rookie in Hollywood and should be handing out sexual favors like a fat girl at prom to get whatever roles he can at this point. I can see where Bale wouldn't want to "demean" himself with an ensemble film, but then again, not only has he (or his agent) gotten himself into some crap roles like Reign of Fire, he also just doesn't seem to be quite the prima donna, so I have trouble seeing him refuse the part just because he doesn't want to be part of an ensemble cast. I get the impression from some of Bale's interviews that he enjoys being Batman. That would lead me to think that he would want to be Batman in a JLA movie as well. To do so would put a lock on his name being synonymous with Batman for a generation (not to mention keeping him in the lucrative cowl for a 4th solo film and beyond - Warners would NEVER be able to recast him after that). And I do think it's totally conceivable that they merge the relatively "realistic" Batman with the more light-hearted Superman setting. Just don't bring in Super-kid or another cheesy Lex Luthor and it's totally viable. The risk would be in losing the integrity of the Batman films by dumbing it down to the level of the Superman franchise. I would (VERY optimistically) hope that they would do the opposite and bring Superman up to the level of Nolan's work. I dream big.
I'm completely with Merin on this. Were I a studio head, that's exactly what I'd look to do. Routh is still a complete rookie in Hollywood and should be handing out sexual favors like a fat girl at prom to get whatever roles he can at this point. I can see where Bale wouldn't want to "demean" himself with an ensemble film, but then again, not only has he (or his agent) gotten himself into some crap roles like Reign of Fire, he also just doesn't seem to be quite the prima donna, so I have trouble seeing him refuse the part just because he doesn't want to be part of an ensemble cast. I get the impression from some of Bale's interviews that he enjoys being Batman. That would lead me to think that he would want to be Batman in a JLA movie as well. To do so would put a lock on his name being synonymous with Batman for a generation (not to mention keeping him in the lucrative cowl for a 4th solo film and beyond - Warners would NEVER be able to recast him after that). And I do think it's totally conceivable that they merge the relatively "realistic" Batman with the more light-hearted Superman setting. Just don't bring in Super-kid or another cheesy Lex Luthor and it's totally viable. The risk would be in losing the integrity of the Batman films by dumbing it down to the level of the Superman franchise. I would (VERY optimistically) hope that they would do the opposite and bring Superman up to the level of Nolan's work. I dream big.
SUPERBAD Geeks Laugh at Competition - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:27am
Damn, I'm closer than I thought to picking the Top 10 for the summer. Another week for Harry Potter and the foreign release of Transformers and I'll at least have the Top 5 right. (pats self on back) Now if only I hadn't been ambushed by The Simpsons and Ratatouille. I'm kicking myself over the The Simpsons. I should have figured it would rank. But Ratatouille just blind-sided me. I think I'm talking to myself. This is what happens when I work the graveyard shift. On a separate note, am I the only one guessing that "War" will be about as spectacular as one of those Steven Seagal+Rap Star movies? (ie. a complete suckfest that should have been direct-to-DVD.)
Damn, I'm closer than I thought to picking the Top 10 for the summer. Another week for Harry Potter and the foreign release of Transformers and I'll at least have the Top 5 right. (pats self on back) Now if only I hadn't been ambushed by The Simpsons and Ratatouille. I'm kicking myself over the The Simpsons. I should have figured it would rank. But Ratatouille just blind-sided me. I think I'm talking to myself. This is what happens when I work the graveyard shift. On a separate note, am I the only one guessing that "War" will be about as spectacular as one of those Steven Seagal+Rap Star movies? (ie. a complete suckfest that should have been direct-to-DVD.)
Katie Holmes as WONDER WOMAN? - Aug 19, 2007 - 04:24am
Oh, for God's sake, Katie Holmes was nearly irrelevant at the height of her "career" on Dawson's Creek. She's cute, but obviously a ditz with the relative acting skill of Jean Claude Van Damme in a coma. I want her and Tom to both vanish into complete obscurity so I never have to suffer seeing their blissfully catatonic smiles and cult-induced blank stares again. Charisma has the look, but she's definitely aging. Not sure she'd last another 9 years for the third part of a trilogy. Shari Wiedman and Morena Baccarin are too "cute." Shannon Elizabeth? Are you kidding? Kate Beckinsale has the look and the acting ability, but not the Amazonian body. WW should have a striking beauty and be very curvaceous. And, in contrast to some of the comic naysayers, I do think her character has depth and a lot to contribute from a character standpoint. Not only is there the obvious female-empowerment angle, but there are plot points in the comic about familial loyalty vs. dedication to higher values, entering a larger world from a sheltered environment, etc. My point being that you actually DO want an actress who does have some significant depth and skill to portray Wonder Woman (assuming you have a script that truly takes advantage of what the character has to offer). I think they're better off to find some unknown then try to make some known actress fit the role just to get "star power" on the movie poster. If I had to pick someone though, and she was a little younger, I'd say Monica Belluci would be perfect.
Oh, for God's sake, Katie Holmes was nearly irrelevant at the height of her "career" on Dawson's Creek. She's cute, but obviously a ditz with the relative acting skill of Jean Claude Van Damme in a coma. I want her and Tom to both vanish into complete obscurity so I never have to suffer seeing their blissfully catatonic smiles and cult-induced blank stares again. Charisma has the look, but she's definitely aging. Not sure she'd last another 9 years for the third part of a trilogy. Shari Wiedman and Morena Baccarin are too "cute." Shannon Elizabeth? Are you kidding? Kate Beckinsale has the look and the acting ability, but not the Amazonian body. WW should have a striking beauty and be very curvaceous. And, in contrast to some of the comic naysayers, I do think her character has depth and a lot to contribute from a character standpoint. Not only is there the obvious female-empowerment angle, but there are plot points in the comic about familial loyalty vs. dedication to higher values, entering a larger world from a sheltered environment, etc. My point being that you actually DO want an actress who does have some significant depth and skill to portray Wonder Woman (assuming you have a script that truly takes advantage of what the character has to offer). I think they're better off to find some unknown then try to make some known actress fit the role just to get "star power" on the movie poster. If I had to pick someone though, and she was a little younger, I'd say Monica Belluci would be perfect.
BOURNE Breaks August Record - Aug 06, 2007 - 12:14pm
"But who here in Mania see Rush Hour 3 making a 70 mil opening??" I do. Sorry, but like it or not, this has been a summer of film-going (for everything except Evan Almighty, of course). I'm guessing the hordes will go see this sequel in droves.
"But who here in Mania see Rush Hour 3 making a 70 mil opening??" I do. Sorry, but like it or not, this has been a summer of film-going (for everything except Evan Almighty, of course). I'm guessing the hordes will go see this sequel in droves.
SAW IV First Cut Gets NC-17 - Jul 27, 2007 - 02:17am
Maybe I'm a prude, but I see no joy or entertainment in these "torture porn" movies. I was in the Army, I fought in Afghanistan, so I've seen my share of gore - I'm far from delicate or easily disturbed. But what DOES disturb me is the idea of people entertained by movies like Saw and Hostel that feature overly elaborate and gruesome deaths for no real purpose other than sadistic enjoyment. Someone please enlighten me if there's any other sort of enjoyment gained from these movies that I'm missing. I mean, I only read about them on wikipedia and that's disturbing enough.
Maybe I'm a prude, but I see no joy or entertainment in these "torture porn" movies. I was in the Army, I fought in Afghanistan, so I've seen my share of gore - I'm far from delicate or easily disturbed. But what DOES disturb me is the idea of people entertained by movies like Saw and Hostel that feature overly elaborate and gruesome deaths for no real purpose other than sadistic enjoyment. Someone please enlighten me if there's any other sort of enjoyment gained from these movies that I'm missing. I mean, I only read about them on wikipedia and that's disturbing enough.
"Omega Flight #1" Sells Out! - Jul 17, 2007 - 08:51pm
"Blame Canada! Blame Canada!" Before I start reading this, I need someone to explain to me why the Korbinite God of Thunder and the Capt. America wanna-be US Agent are on the Canadian superteam. I mean, I know that in the past there have been foreign citizens on the Avengers, an arguably "American" team of heroes (Thor was a Norse god after all). But I think putting the "US" Agent on the Canadian team is a stretch. Especially for a character like John Walker, who is such a VIOLENTLY pro-American "hero." Eh. My pull list is long enough as it is.
"Blame Canada! Blame Canada!" Before I start reading this, I need someone to explain to me why the Korbinite God of Thunder and the Capt. America wanna-be US Agent are on the Canadian superteam. I mean, I know that in the past there have been foreign citizens on the Avengers, an arguably "American" team of heroes (Thor was a Norse god after all). But I think putting the "US" Agent on the Canadian team is a stretch. Especially for a character like John Walker, who is such a VIOLENTLY pro-American "hero." Eh. My pull list is long enough as it is.
How Much is TOO Much? - Jul 17, 2007 - 07:52pm
Please disregard - somehow I did a re-post. My bad. -Dave
Please disregard - somehow I did a re-post. My bad. -Dave
How Much is TOO Much? - Jul 17, 2007 - 07:52pm
I'm agree with nax. As long as there's a "Look Away Now" warning (like you often do, Jarrod), then post whatever you want. I do think that it's annoying when people intentionally do shit like trying to scream the end of "Deathly Hallows" from the rooftops just to ruin it for everyone else. Those are just assholes trying to get "look at me! i'm special because of what I know" attention. Personally, I think those people should be pummelled mercilessly out of the gene pool, but we all know that being an asshole isn't against the law. But I digress. Basically, I think to answer your question, Jarrod, the idea of how much is too much is, in the end, up the the reader/listener. Some people want to know EVERYTHING about a movie before it comes out. Others want to know nothing. And some want to know a lot about one movie and nothing about others. So, it really comes down to personal choice. As far as it goes for those who post, run, or manage fansites and the like, there just needs to be liberal but judicious use of "SPOILER WARNINGS" on those articles that reveal more than basic cast and crew news. If you can't see it on an officially released poster or trailer, then it should probably be marked as potential spoiler news. From there on out, let the reader beware. -Dave
I'm agree with nax. As long as there's a "Look Away Now" warning (like you often do, Jarrod), then post whatever you want. I do think that it's annoying when people intentionally do shit like trying to scream the end of "Deathly Hallows" from the rooftops just to ruin it for everyone else. Those are just assholes trying to get "look at me! i'm special because of what I know" attention. Personally, I think those people should be pummelled mercilessly out of the gene pool, but we all know that being an asshole isn't against the law. But I digress. Basically, I think to answer your question, Jarrod, the idea of how much is too much is, in the end, up the the reader/listener. Some people want to know EVERYTHING about a movie before it comes out. Others want to know nothing. And some want to know a lot about one movie and nothing about others. So, it really comes down to personal choice. As far as it goes for those who post, run, or manage fansites and the like, there just needs to be liberal but judicious use of "SPOILER WARNINGS" on those articles that reveal more than basic cast and crew news. If you can't see it on an officially released poster or trailer, then it should probably be marked as potential spoiler news. From there on out, let the reader beware. -Dave
E3: Some Trailers Released - Jul 15, 2007 - 09:03pm
Jarrod, any sign or word of the next Dawn of War sequel/expansion? I'm still hanging on to that movie at the end of Dark Crusade with the big "2007". The Star Wars trailer looks good, as does Fallout and MGS4. But I'm with Merin... I'm still loathe to shell out $500+ on a game system. I'll just wait till Sony comes to their senses.
Jarrod, any sign or word of the next Dawn of War sequel/expansion? I'm still hanging on to that movie at the end of Dark Crusade with the big "2007". The Star Wars trailer looks good, as does Fallout and MGS4. But I'm with Merin... I'm still loathe to shell out $500+ on a game system. I'll just wait till Sony comes to their senses.
A Fantastic Feud: Your Letters - Jun 28, 2007 - 05:30am
Holy %$#&! Somehow I assumed that my letter would go unread, nevermind unacknowledged. I apologize, Kurt, for such baseless thoughts. I do agree that we should expect more from our movies, especially from properties like our most beloved comics that we all know have the potential to be something much greater than just "funny books" (God, I hate that term.). But I'm of the belief that much of what Hollywood trowels out is so poor because of their ridiculous business sense when it comes to who runs what and who acts in what. Studios will always produce 90% crap because they hire and cast based on nepotism, regardless of income for past works. Hollywood accountants can skew numbers, especially with international markets being included, to make ANY crap film seem like it was profitable (*cough* Ghost Rider *cough*). But do you think they hired Nick Cage because he was SO right for the part, because his films generally do well in box office, or because his real last name is "Coppola" and he wanted to massacre... I mean, PLAY the role of Johnny Blaze? I will admit that I'm also biased in recent years by having a young daughter who I look to bring into the comic reading fold with simpler fare at her tender age of 3. As she ages, I'll introduce her to the greats like Kirby, Lee, Miller, and Byrne. But for now, the fact that I have a young girl interested in comics at all is a good start for me (though, to be honest, she hasn't seen either FF movie. But she DOES love her some Reeves' Superman). And I didn't mean to malign the work of John McTiernan. The man is a fabulous director (with some projects excepted of course), as well as a seemingly good man (I'm biased by having received a personal letter from him at age 14 in response to a fan letter I wrote about Die Hard and Predator). I just meant to refer to movies that are generally regarded by most people as "useless action schlock." I should have chosen better examples of crap summer movies. ;) I also do think that I failed to emphasize my lack of knowledge about the FF as a comic, as I think that helped lower my expectations for the films - though I should know better than to underrate any title created by Stan. I was always an Avengers fan, personally (try New Avengers again. Mighty Avengers sucks and don't get me started on the Initiative, but N.A. seems to be gaining some emotional momentum after the death of Steve Rogers. Then again, maybe I'm projecting.). But now I digress. Anyway, keep up the great work. Thanks again for doing me the honor of acknowledging my uninformed yet well-intentioned letter. ;) -Dave P.S. Good call on Predator as Beowulf... I never saw that connection before, but damn if you're not right. Too bad McTiernan didn't stick with that version of the Danish myth and avoid "13th Warrior."
Holy %$#&! Somehow I assumed that my letter would go unread, nevermind unacknowledged. I apologize, Kurt, for such baseless thoughts. I do agree that we should expect more from our movies, especially from properties like our most beloved comics that we all know have the potential to be something much greater than just "funny books" (God, I hate that term.). But I'm of the belief that much of what Hollywood trowels out is so poor because of their ridiculous business sense when it comes to who runs what and who acts in what. Studios will always produce 90% crap because they hire and cast based on nepotism, regardless of income for past works. Hollywood accountants can skew numbers, especially with international markets being included, to make ANY crap film seem like it was profitable (*cough* Ghost Rider *cough*). But do you think they hired Nick Cage because he was SO right for the part, because his films generally do well in box office, or because his real last name is "Coppola" and he wanted to massacre... I mean, PLAY the role of Johnny Blaze? I will admit that I'm also biased in recent years by having a young daughter who I look to bring into the comic reading fold with simpler fare at her tender age of 3. As she ages, I'll introduce her to the greats like Kirby, Lee, Miller, and Byrne. But for now, the fact that I have a young girl interested in comics at all is a good start for me (though, to be honest, she hasn't seen either FF movie. But she DOES love her some Reeves' Superman). And I didn't mean to malign the work of John McTiernan. The man is a fabulous director (with some projects excepted of course), as well as a seemingly good man (I'm biased by having received a personal letter from him at age 14 in response to a fan letter I wrote about Die Hard and Predator). I just meant to refer to movies that are generally regarded by most people as "useless action schlock." I should have chosen better examples of crap summer movies. ;) I also do think that I failed to emphasize my lack of knowledge about the FF as a comic, as I think that helped lower my expectations for the films - though I should know better than to underrate any title created by Stan. I was always an Avengers fan, personally (try New Avengers again. Mighty Avengers sucks and don't get me started on the Initiative, but N.A. seems to be gaining some emotional momentum after the death of Steve Rogers. Then again, maybe I'm projecting.). But now I digress. Anyway, keep up the great work. Thanks again for doing me the honor of acknowledging my uninformed yet well-intentioned letter. ;) -Dave P.S. Good call on Predator as Beowulf... I never saw that connection before, but damn if you're not right. Too bad McTiernan didn't stick with that version of the Danish myth and avoid "13th Warrior."
A Fantastic Feud: Your Letters - Jun 28, 2007 - 05:09am
Holy %$#&! Somehow I assumed that my letter would go unread, nevermind unacknowledged. I apologize, Kurt, for such baseless thoughts. I do agree that we should expect more from our movies, especially from properties like our most beloved comics that we all know have the potential to be something much greater than just "funny books" (God, I hate that term.). But I'm of the belief that much of what Hollywood trowels out is so poor because of their ridiculous business sense when it comes to who runs what and who acts in what. Studios will always produce 90% crap because they hire and cast based on nepotism, regardless of income for past works. Hollywood accountants can skew numbers, especially with international markets being included, to make ANY crap film seem like it was profitable (*cough* Ghost Rider *cough*). But do you think they hired Nick Cage because he was SO right for the part, because his films generally do well in box office, or because his real last name is "Coppola" and he wanted to massacre... I mean, PLAY the role of Johnny Blaze? I will admit that I'm also biased in recent years by having a young daughter who I look to bring into the comic reading fold with simpler fare at her tender age of 3. As she ages, I'll introduce her to the greats like Kirby, Lee, Miller, and Byrne. But for now, the fact that I have a young girl interested in comics at all is a good start for me (though, to be honest, she hasn't seen either FF movie. But she DOES love her some Reeves' Superman). And I didn't mean to malign the work of John McTiernan. The man is a fabulous director (with some projects excepted of course), as well as a seemingly good man (I'm biased by having received a personal letter from him at age 14 in response to a fan letter I wrote about Die Hard and Predator). I just meant to refer to movies that are generally regarded by most people as "useless action schlock." I should have chosen better examples of crap summer movies. ;) I also do think that I failed to emphasize my lack of knowledge about the FF as a comic, as I think that helped lower my expectations for the films - though I should know better than to underrate any title created by Stan. I was always an Avengers fan, personally (try New Avengers again. Mighty Avengers sucks and don't get me started on the Initiative, but N.A. seems to be gaining some emotional momentum after the death of Steve Rogers. Then again, maybe I'm projecting.). But now I digress. Anyway, keep up the great work. Thanks again for doing me the honor of acknowledging my uninformed yet well-intentioned letter. ;) -Dave P.S. Good call on Predator as Beowulf... I never saw that connection before, but damn if you're not right. Too bad McTiernan didn't stick with that version of the Danish myth and avoid "13th Warrior."
Holy %$#&! Somehow I assumed that my letter would go unread, nevermind unacknowledged. I apologize, Kurt, for such baseless thoughts. I do agree that we should expect more from our movies, especially from properties like our most beloved comics that we all know have the potential to be something much greater than just "funny books" (God, I hate that term.). But I'm of the belief that much of what Hollywood trowels out is so poor because of their ridiculous business sense when it comes to who runs what and who acts in what. Studios will always produce 90% crap because they hire and cast based on nepotism, regardless of income for past works. Hollywood accountants can skew numbers, especially with international markets being included, to make ANY crap film seem like it was profitable (*cough* Ghost Rider *cough*). But do you think they hired Nick Cage because he was SO right for the part, because his films generally do well in box office, or because his real last name is "Coppola" and he wanted to massacre... I mean, PLAY the role of Johnny Blaze? I will admit that I'm also biased in recent years by having a young daughter who I look to bring into the comic reading fold with simpler fare at her tender age of 3. As she ages, I'll introduce her to the greats like Kirby, Lee, Miller, and Byrne. But for now, the fact that I have a young girl interested in comics at all is a good start for me (though, to be honest, she hasn't seen either FF movie. But she DOES love her some Reeves' Superman). And I didn't mean to malign the work of John McTiernan. The man is a fabulous director (with some projects excepted of course), as well as a seemingly good man (I'm biased by having received a personal letter from him at age 14 in response to a fan letter I wrote about Die Hard and Predator). I just meant to refer to movies that are generally regarded by most people as "useless action schlock." I should have chosen better examples of crap summer movies. ;) I also do think that I failed to emphasize my lack of knowledge about the FF as a comic, as I think that helped lower my expectations for the films - though I should know better than to underrate any title created by Stan. I was always an Avengers fan, personally (try New Avengers again. Mighty Avengers sucks and don't get me started on the Initiative, but N.A. seems to be gaining some emotional momentum after the death of Steve Rogers. Then again, maybe I'm projecting.). But now I digress. Anyway, keep up the great work. Thanks again for doing me the honor of acknowledging my uninformed yet well-intentioned letter. ;) -Dave P.S. Good call on Predator as Beowulf... I never saw that connection before, but damn if you're not right. Too bad McTiernan didn't stick with that version of the Danish myth and avoid "13th Warrior."
EVAN Sails to the Top - Jun 24, 2007 - 11:08pm
Don't know where to email my box office predictions, so I'll just post em here. Hopefully Jarrod will see them here: 1. Pirates of the Caribbean: AWE 2. Harry Potter 5 3. Spider-Man 3 4. Transformers 5. Shrek 3 6. FF:ROTSS 7. Live Free or Die Hard 8. Bourne Ultimatum 9. Rush Hour 3 10. Ocean's 13
Don't know where to email my box office predictions, so I'll just post em here. Hopefully Jarrod will see them here: 1. Pirates of the Caribbean: AWE 2. Harry Potter 5 3. Spider-Man 3 4. Transformers 5. Shrek 3 6. FF:ROTSS 7. Live Free or Die Hard 8. Bourne Ultimatum 9. Rush Hour 3 10. Ocean's 13
Turning on the New Radio with Alex Cahill and Jad Ziade - May 30, 2007 - 10:54pm
Kurt... we WANT you to give in to your baser tendencies. It's why we all really read this column. Oh, and I think it may be the only way to defeat the creeping corruption of the new Ben Johnson/Al Brown hybrid that is infesting your offices.
Kurt... we WANT you to give in to your baser tendencies. It's why we all really read this column. Oh, and I think it may be the only way to defeat the creeping corruption of the new Ben Johnson/Al Brown hybrid that is infesting your offices.
Iliff Set to Write/Direct POINT BREAK 2 - May 17, 2007 - 08:18pm
This is a joke, right? Mania is having a little late April Fool's Day? The first one was barely watchable when I was 15. A sequel will only amount to a huge waste of celluloid. I'm going to go on record right now and say that Paul Walker will be tapped to play the intrepid young surfer/SEAL/detective. CRAP!
This is a joke, right? Mania is having a little late April Fool's Day? The first one was barely watchable when I was 15. A sequel will only amount to a huge waste of celluloid. I'm going to go on record right now and say that Paul Walker will be tapped to play the intrepid young surfer/SEAL/detective. CRAP!
Iliff Set to Write/Direct POINT BREAK 2 - May 17, 2007 - 08:16pm
This is a joke, right? Mania is having a little late April Fool's Day? The first one was barely watchable when I was 15. A sequel will only amount to a huge waste of celluloid. I'm going to go on record right now and say that Paul Walker will be tapped to play the intrepid young surfer/SEAL/detective. CRAP!
This is a joke, right? Mania is having a little late April Fool's Day? The first one was barely watchable when I was 15. A sequel will only amount to a huge waste of celluloid. I'm going to go on record right now and say that Paul Walker will be tapped to play the intrepid young surfer/SEAL/detective. CRAP!
New TRANSFORMERS Trailer - May 17, 2007 - 08:09pm
I'm with jrjedi and spiderhero!! I just watched it 3 times in a row, and I'm about to go for 4! When I heard the transform sound as Optimus transforms... I wept a little. I've been really scared that this movie would suck like a black hole. I now rejoice and thank the dear Lord above!! This movie is now at the top of my MUST-SEE list for the summer. I can't WAIT. I may even take my 3-year old daughter (who is quite the action-junkie prodigy), once I indoctrinate her with the cartoons. Metal... you're either on crack or just too anxious to bitch about something. There's plenty of craptastic drivel coming out of Hollywood to complain about. This is not it, dude. "Autobots... TRANSFORM!!"
I'm with jrjedi and spiderhero!! I just watched it 3 times in a row, and I'm about to go for 4! When I heard the transform sound as Optimus transforms... I wept a little. I've been really scared that this movie would suck like a black hole. I now rejoice and thank the dear Lord above!! This movie is now at the top of my MUST-SEE list for the summer. I can't WAIT. I may even take my 3-year old daughter (who is quite the action-junkie prodigy), once I indoctrinate her with the cartoons. Metal... you're either on crack or just too anxious to bitch about something. There's plenty of craptastic drivel coming out of Hollywood to complain about. This is not it, dude. "Autobots... TRANSFORM!!"
"Ghost Rider" - Feb 19, 2007 - 09:00am
A fair review. i saw this opening night, after waiting anxiously for 7 months. Ghost Rider was always my #2 comic character, so I was very excited, and very fearful that it would get botched like so many other previous comic movies (Mark Steven Johnson's outing for Daredevil among others). I pretty much agree with Abbie's review, but for the point about it being long. I thought it could have been longer, and in fact SHOULD have been. The fight scenes were abrupt to say the least. Ghost Rider seemed to learn his powers and figure out how to defeat each threat in record time, leaving each combat scene feeling like a big tease. Furthermore, the character development was felt abbreviated as well. It was like the filmmakers laid a fantastic foundation of a movie, and never really built anything on it. All in all, I agree with the "B" rating. I'd like to say I hope the sequel will take this film and build something really exciting and meaningful on it, but I don't realistically see this one earning a sequel. I recommend all you comic-reading Maniacs go check this out.
A fair review. i saw this opening night, after waiting anxiously for 7 months. Ghost Rider was always my #2 comic character, so I was very excited, and very fearful that it would get botched like so many other previous comic movies (Mark Steven Johnson's outing for Daredevil among others). I pretty much agree with Abbie's review, but for the point about it being long. I thought it could have been longer, and in fact SHOULD have been. The fight scenes were abrupt to say the least. Ghost Rider seemed to learn his powers and figure out how to defeat each threat in record time, leaving each combat scene feeling like a big tease. Furthermore, the character development was felt abbreviated as well. It was like the filmmakers laid a fantastic foundation of a movie, and never really built anything on it. All in all, I agree with the "B" rating. I'd like to say I hope the sequel will take this film and build something really exciting and meaningful on it, but I don't realistically see this one earning a sequel. I recommend all you comic-reading Maniacs go check this out.
Lee Pace joins ADDICTED - Oct 09, 2006 - 10:33am
"Over" - as in her last 4 or 5 roles have ALL been the same. If Japan suddenly stopped making horror movies for Hollywood to remake, she'd have nothing to do. She's pigeon-holed and no one in Hollywood is likely to give her something new and fresh to try. "Over" - as in, I hope she saved her pennies, because I doubt a "Scooby Doo 3" is on the horizon to rescue her from the monotony of her current run as the "horror victim du jour." "Over" - as in "she needs to get over herself and go back to Buffy. Without Joss and a deep mythology, a pre-developed world, and truly solid writing to back her up, her acting is revealed as being thinner than Kate Moss after a 3-day binge of meth and a losing bout with the Death Star's garbage compactor." Jennifer Love Hewitt saw the writing on the wall and got out when she could. Neve Campbell held out for one Scream sequel too many. SMG - get a clue and stick to the one thing that got you positive reviews. You're not as good as you think.
"Over" - as in her last 4 or 5 roles have ALL been the same. If Japan suddenly stopped making horror movies for Hollywood to remake, she'd have nothing to do. She's pigeon-holed and no one in Hollywood is likely to give her something new and fresh to try. "Over" - as in, I hope she saved her pennies, because I doubt a "Scooby Doo 3" is on the horizon to rescue her from the monotony of her current run as the "horror victim du jour." "Over" - as in "she needs to get over herself and go back to Buffy. Without Joss and a deep mythology, a pre-developed world, and truly solid writing to back her up, her acting is revealed as being thinner than Kate Moss after a 3-day binge of meth and a losing bout with the Death Star's garbage compactor." Jennifer Love Hewitt saw the writing on the wall and got out when she could. Neve Campbell held out for one Scream sequel too many. SMG - get a clue and stick to the one thing that got you positive reviews. You're not as good as you think.
Robert Downey Jr. is IRON MAN - Sep 30, 2006 - 04:12pm
NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! (Granted, if anyone can truly characterize an addict on screen, it's this tool, but come on! This is still a comic movie, not a biopic about some schmuck alchoholic inventor. Suave, charming, debonaire... RDJ is NOT Tony Stark!)
NNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!! (Granted, if anyone can truly characterize an addict on screen, it's this tool, but come on! This is still a comic movie, not a biopic about some schmuck alchoholic inventor. Suave, charming, debonaire... RDJ is NOT Tony Stark!)
Mania is the premiere online destination for fans of science fiction, fantasy, horror, and anime entertainment. It is the largest community offering profiles, video, science fiction movies, sci fi TV, art, sci fi comics, photos, cheats, blogs, science fiction books, forums and feedback. Mania offers insider entertainment industry info and original content for science fiction, fantasy, and horror entertainment genres including: video games, comics, gadgets, movies, television, toys, music, books, DVDs and more. © Mania Entertainment, LLC. 2001 - 2008
If Cher were Catwoman, would that, by default, force them to do a movie soundtrack by The Village People (since they were her most recent opening act). I bet Joel Schumaker started this rumor, in hopes of resurrecting his gay-Batman trilogy. (No offense to any of the homosexual persuasion! Please, before the rants start, I have no beef with any of the gays. I just hated Schumaker's take on Batman and his extreme attempts to beat us over the head with homo-erotic suggestions - it ruined the movies.) Along the lines of the Cher rumor, let's all start a new one that Bette Midler is going to play Poison Ivy, Paul Rubens is being looked at to play Bane, and Lauren Conrad from "The Hills" is going to jump on board as a "spunky, outgoing, sexy, edgy re-imagining of the role of Batgirl. She'll be Barbara Gordon with attitude and a platinum debit card." I think I just heard Hanso become physically ill as I wrote that. In fact, reading that again, I think I just threw up in my mouth... I apologize to Bob Kane and everyone on this website.