halfuck1's Recent Comments
D&D Co-Creator Passes Away - Mar 04, 2008 - 04:51pm
I sort of feel like being back in high school when Gene Roddenberry died... This weekend I will definitely fire up the DND cartoon series and mourn his passage for d12 hours. Sigh.
I sort of feel like being back in high school when Gene Roddenberry died... This weekend I will definitely fire up the DND cartoon series and mourn his passage for d12 hours. Sigh.
One Comicscape, Many Subjects - Jan 16, 2008 - 05:55pm
Merin, you have to push the Cyclops-Skrull retcon back further. It happened right before Cyclops lost to the powerless Storm... That's smarter than "Maddie's nascent powers allowed Storm to win." I hated that bit of Inferno.
Merin, you have to push the Cyclops-Skrull retcon back further. It happened right before Cyclops lost to the powerless Storm... That's smarter than "Maddie's nascent powers allowed Storm to win." I hated that bit of Inferno.
Top 5 Top 5 Lists of 2007 - Dec 31, 2007 - 04:21am
Wheel of Time over Harry Potter? I find Jordan to be the most bloated and derivative fantasy writer out there. I think it was after reading the fifth book I realized that his female characters are essentially all the same, and that he just kept trying to stretch out a series for as long as possible.
Wheel of Time over Harry Potter? I find Jordan to be the most bloated and derivative fantasy writer out there. I think it was after reading the fifth book I realized that his female characters are essentially all the same, and that he just kept trying to stretch out a series for as long as possible.
WGA and AMPTP Aim Parting Shots Before Christmas - Dec 21, 2007 - 02:43pm
I just want to give a round of applause (metaphorically) to Merin for weaving a sports metaphor with Magic the Gathering (or any other collectible card game) in a discussion of management-worker's union negotiations. That's just the sort of intelligent, witty writing which America doesn't watch enough of because of the recent reality TV orgy of decadence which draws their attention away. Sigh. While movie studios may be able to bank on at least another year of good movies, the strike is messing with the pilot season. Which means TV should suck for the next year or so. SIGH.
I just want to give a round of applause (metaphorically) to Merin for weaving a sports metaphor with Magic the Gathering (or any other collectible card game) in a discussion of management-worker's union negotiations. That's just the sort of intelligent, witty writing which America doesn't watch enough of because of the recent reality TV orgy of decadence which draws their attention away. Sigh. While movie studios may be able to bank on at least another year of good movies, the strike is messing with the pilot season. Which means TV should suck for the next year or so. SIGH.
COMPASS Comes Up Short in Dismal Victory - Dec 09, 2007 - 09:24pm
While there may not be organized, picketing religious right protesters, there has been a distinct message filtered throughout the organized Christian community: do not let your children see this film. One of my students (I teach high school) told me Friday that none of her friends would go see it with her, because their parents were forbidding it. These are high school juniors. This was also the same day that a story about the book, the movie, and various schools banning the book was on the front page of the Houston Chronicle. The basic argument is "If I let my kid see the movie, then they may want to read the book. But we're not talking about censorship..." Right. Personally, I wasn't a tremendous fan of the series of books. I think Pullman over simplifies certain concepts, but in general the notion of a magical, technological Earth-like world was engaging. That said, I tend to avoid PG-rated fantasies based on young adult fiction. Especially if it's directed by one of the
While there may not be organized, picketing religious right protesters, there has been a distinct message filtered throughout the organized Christian community: do not let your children see this film. One of my students (I teach high school) told me Friday that none of her friends would go see it with her, because their parents were forbidding it. These are high school juniors. This was also the same day that a story about the book, the movie, and various schools banning the book was on the front page of the Houston Chronicle. The basic argument is "If I let my kid see the movie, then they may want to read the book. But we're not talking about censorship..." Right. Personally, I wasn't a tremendous fan of the series of books. I think Pullman over simplifies certain concepts, but in general the notion of a magical, technological Earth-like world was engaging. That said, I tend to avoid PG-rated fantasies based on young adult fiction. Especially if it's directed by one of the
BIONIC WOMAN: Paradise Lost - Oct 12, 2007 - 05:54pm
I find the comparisons between Buffy and Alias to be interesting ones. I never got into Alias (though it seems like I would really enjoy it from what I've heard and what I've seen of Jennifer Garner ((her acting was not the problem with Elektra))). Buffy I've loved from the moment I watched my first episode (which was actually the season finale of season two). When I finally went back to watch the first few seasons, I found it to be rather uneven. The one unifying idea in the first season was the establishment of the voice of the characters. The distinct personalities of the Scooby Gang were there from the various episode; this is in part due to having the vision and leadership of Joss Whedon. With Bionic Woman, it seems that there are many people steering the ship. Ainiticool is reporting that Katims (who's running Friday Night Lights and used to run Roswell) has been brought in to run the next few episodes in production. They do seem to have cherry-picked moments from Buffy--Dawn, the evil Slayer, the secret government Initiative, the attempt at witty commentary--but it seems like too much too soon. It's as if they wanted to jump into the mythology of the show from the first moment, without developing it slowly. There are too many characters; she has no real mentor she can trust. She has no sidekick(s), and we had no idea who the hell she was before it happened. Plus, I'm a little concerned about the watering down of the feminist message from Buffy. That said, I'll probably stick with it, because otherwise my wife will make me watch Private Practive (shudder). Now Life on the other hand kicks all sort of ass.
I find the comparisons between Buffy and Alias to be interesting ones. I never got into Alias (though it seems like I would really enjoy it from what I've heard and what I've seen of Jennifer Garner ((her acting was not the problem with Elektra))). Buffy I've loved from the moment I watched my first episode (which was actually the season finale of season two). When I finally went back to watch the first few seasons, I found it to be rather uneven. The one unifying idea in the first season was the establishment of the voice of the characters. The distinct personalities of the Scooby Gang were there from the various episode; this is in part due to having the vision and leadership of Joss Whedon. With Bionic Woman, it seems that there are many people steering the ship. Ainiticool is reporting that Katims (who's running Friday Night Lights and used to run Roswell) has been brought in to run the next few episodes in production. They do seem to have cherry-picked moments from Buffy--Dawn, the evil Slayer, the secret government Initiative, the attempt at witty commentary--but it seems like too much too soon. It's as if they wanted to jump into the mythology of the show from the first moment, without developing it slowly. There are too many characters; she has no real mentor she can trust. She has no sidekick(s), and we had no idea who the hell she was before it happened. Plus, I'm a little concerned about the watering down of the feminist message from Buffy. That said, I'll probably stick with it, because otherwise my wife will make me watch Private Practive (shudder). Now Life on the other hand kicks all sort of ass.
Hardwicke Leading Vampires in TWILIGHT - Oct 03, 2007 - 06:58pm
I fear that this project could go one of two ways: 1. Cutesy teenage romance (something you might find on the CW) 2. PG-13 rated, non-frightening scary movie which destroys any plot, like the adaptation of "Blood and Chocolate." I haven't read the books (but a number of my freshmen students have). What I find interesting is that the author is a stay-at-home Mormon mom.
I fear that this project could go one of two ways: 1. Cutesy teenage romance (something you might find on the CW) 2. PG-13 rated, non-frightening scary movie which destroys any plot, like the adaptation of "Blood and Chocolate." I haven't read the books (but a number of my freshmen students have). What I find interesting is that the author is a stay-at-home Mormon mom.
JOURNEYMAN: Pilot - Sep 26, 2007 - 05:17am
I thoroughly disagree with this review. In many ways, I found Journeyman to be much more enthralling than the Heroes premiere (and I loved the Heroes premiere with all of its characters). As I was explaining this show to a friend at work, I summarized it by saying, "Imagine Quantum Leap with a set of balls." Watch the scene again where he has the chance to sleep with his hottie ex-fiance, but then sees his wedding band, reminding him of his "real life." In QL, Sam had his convenient amnesia, and he would still try to get together with his ex-fiance. There's no gimmicky Al, no supercomputer telling him what to do (he has an Iphone for that), and no evil leapers. The last scene of the premiere was also intensely powerful. He's accepted his role which he has just discovered, and he sits watching the woman he loves as he waits for his next journey. Awesome.
I thoroughly disagree with this review. In many ways, I found Journeyman to be much more enthralling than the Heroes premiere (and I loved the Heroes premiere with all of its characters). As I was explaining this show to a friend at work, I summarized it by saying, "Imagine Quantum Leap with a set of balls." Watch the scene again where he has the chance to sleep with his hottie ex-fiance, but then sees his wedding band, reminding him of his "real life." In QL, Sam had his convenient amnesia, and he would still try to get together with his ex-fiance. There's no gimmicky Al, no supercomputer telling him what to do (he has an Iphone for that), and no evil leapers. The last scene of the premiere was also intensely powerful. He's accepted his role which he has just discovered, and he sits watching the woman he loves as he waits for his next journey. Awesome.
Spoiler: Another Character Returns to LOST - Sep 23, 2007 - 06:31am
What I find most interesting is that they are still going to do flashbacks with some flash-forwards. I wondered if the season three finale's flash-forward represented a turning point in the show, that all flashes would be forward, not back. I could see them doing that entirely for the last season.
What I find most interesting is that they are still going to do flashbacks with some flash-forwards. I wondered if the season three finale's flash-forward represented a turning point in the show, that all flashes would be forward, not back. I could see them doing that entirely for the last season.
Premiere Week - Sep 23, 2007 - 06:26am
TayDor, nice SW allusion. I'm not saying I have high hopes for Bionic Woman, but I think it has possibilities. Ever since Buffy went off the air so many years ago, I've missed a butt-kicking metaphor for feminism. The main reason that I'll be watching Journeyman is because it stars Kevin McKidd who was fantastic as Lucius Vorenus in both seasons of Rome. This seems to be one of those seasons of high geek-potential (like a couple of seasons ago when Surfacing and a bunch of other sci-fi shows were starting). Most of them probably won't succeed, and only a few of them will actually be well-made, but the air of possibility is there. This season remi
TayDor, nice SW allusion. I'm not saying I have high hopes for Bionic Woman, but I think it has possibilities. Ever since Buffy went off the air so many years ago, I've missed a butt-kicking metaphor for feminism. The main reason that I'll be watching Journeyman is because it stars Kevin McKidd who was fantastic as Lucius Vorenus in both seasons of Rome. This seems to be one of those seasons of high geek-potential (like a couple of seasons ago when Surfacing and a bunch of other sci-fi shows were starting). Most of them probably won't succeed, and only a few of them will actually be well-made, but the air of possibility is there. This season remi
Lucas Details Both STAR WARS Shows - Sep 22, 2007 - 07:06am
The nine episodes comment comes from the source material. Lucas based the larger plot arc ideas on Aeschylus' trilogy of plays, The Orestaea which detail the House of Atreus. Book one, Agamemnon (episodes I-III). Returning from the Trojan War, great general Agamemnon (who had to sacrifice his own daughter to win the war) is killed, betrayed by his wife (who had taken power in the ten years of the war). Book Two, The Libation Bearers (episodes IV-VI): Agamemnon's son, Orestes (who had been living in exile) returns to avenge his father's death by killing the Aegisthus (his mother's new lover) and his mother (Clytemnestra), also, he must free his twin sister (Elektra) who has been made a slave in the household. Key lines Orestes is guided by his father's hands and Clytemnestra says that Orestes has slain Aegisthus and he should take his rightful place by her side. Book Three, The Eumenides (parts VIII-IX). Orestes is haunted by the Furies, the goddesses of vengeance who avenge people who have been killed by family members. Apollo had demanded that Orestes' obligation to his father was more important, and Athena mediates a deal that makes the Furies into the Kindly Ones, goddesses who protect (instead of avenge) the wronged (and they are explicitly underneath Apollo's control). Clearly if the third trilogy had ever been developed, it would have largely involved the re-establishment of order and justice in the Republic, while dealing with the Emperor's old ghosts.
The nine episodes comment comes from the source material. Lucas based the larger plot arc ideas on Aeschylus' trilogy of plays, The Orestaea which detail the House of Atreus. Book one, Agamemnon (episodes I-III). Returning from the Trojan War, great general Agamemnon (who had to sacrifice his own daughter to win the war) is killed, betrayed by his wife (who had taken power in the ten years of the war). Book Two, The Libation Bearers (episodes IV-VI): Agamemnon's son, Orestes (who had been living in exile) returns to avenge his father's death by killing the Aegisthus (his mother's new lover) and his mother (Clytemnestra), also, he must free his twin sister (Elektra) who has been made a slave in the household. Key lines Orestes is guided by his father's hands and Clytemnestra says that Orestes has slain Aegisthus and he should take his rightful place by her side. Book Three, The Eumenides (parts VIII-IX). Orestes is haunted by the Furies, the goddesses of vengeance who avenge people who have been killed by family members. Apollo had demanded that Orestes' obligation to his father was more important, and Athena mediates a deal that makes the Furies into the Kindly Ones, goddesses who protect (instead of avenge) the wronged (and they are explicitly underneath Apollo's control). Clearly if the third trilogy had ever been developed, it would have largely involved the re-establishment of order and justice in the Republic, while dealing with the Emperor's old ghosts.
Matthew Vaughn talks THOR - Sep 17, 2007 - 09:10pm
Kerrith, you're my hero right now. I was saying that all August. Growing up on X-Men and New Mutants, I only ever saw Thor in the occasional cross-over event. That said, if Vaughn can capture the world of Asgard from the pages of Claremont's fantastic Asgardian Wars series with the mutants showing up in Asgard, it should be awesome. Whiskeymovie, I still blame Ratner first and the corporate suits second for the debacle that was X3. The studio refused to budge on the release date and Vaughn needed more time as Singer had already bailed a little late in the game.
Kerrith, you're my hero right now. I was saying that all August. Growing up on X-Men and New Mutants, I only ever saw Thor in the occasional cross-over event. That said, if Vaughn can capture the world of Asgard from the pages of Claremont's fantastic Asgardian Wars series with the mutants showing up in Asgard, it should be awesome. Whiskeymovie, I still blame Ratner first and the corporate suits second for the debacle that was X3. The studio refused to budge on the release date and Vaughn needed more time as Singer had already bailed a little late in the game.
Broadbent is Horace Slughorn in HBP - Sep 17, 2007 - 09:02pm
Broadbent was in Moulin Rouge; he also played the wacky and sad father in Bridget Jones' Diary. He first caught my attention in Bullets Over Broadway playing a neurotic and melodramatic stage actor. I think he can definitely play the nuanced role of Slughorn. Bill Nighy seems to be a fan favorite for the evil werewolf. Bob Hoskins would definitely be an interesting choice, but sometimes who they cast takes ownership of the role in a wholly surprising way. I was totally psyched for Patrick Stewart as Lupin, but David Thewlis has totally owned the role. I think Broadbent will do fantastically.
Broadbent was in Moulin Rouge; he also played the wacky and sad father in Bridget Jones' Diary. He first caught my attention in Bullets Over Broadway playing a neurotic and melodramatic stage actor. I think he can definitely play the nuanced role of Slughorn. Bill Nighy seems to be a fan favorite for the evil werewolf. Bob Hoskins would definitely be an interesting choice, but sometimes who they cast takes ownership of the role in a wholly surprising way. I was totally psyched for Patrick Stewart as Lupin, but David Thewlis has totally owned the role. I think Broadbent will do fantastically.
INDIANA JONES 4 Has Full Official Title - Sep 10, 2007 - 09:31pm
On one of the Mummy 3 discussions didn't someone mention that both M3 and Indy 4 would be dealing with China or "the Orient" as the significant setting? Raiders of the Lost Ark Temple of Doom The Last Crusade Only two of the titles actually suggest something specific about the plot and setting (Do you guys wanna' see the Temple of Doom in Arizona? It's right next to Cobra Commander's weater-controlling layer.). That said, I'm not quite sure what the reference is. Regardless, I'll be there.
On one of the Mummy 3 discussions didn't someone mention that both M3 and Indy 4 would be dealing with China or "the Orient" as the significant setting? Raiders of the Lost Ark Temple of Doom The Last Crusade Only two of the titles actually suggest something specific about the plot and setting (Do you guys wanna' see the Temple of Doom in Arizona? It's right next to Cobra Commander's weater-controlling layer.). That said, I'm not quite sure what the reference is. Regardless, I'll be there.
HD IRON MAN Trailer Online Now - Sep 10, 2007 - 09:24pm
I had remained cautiously optimistic about this film, as I wasn't really sure if I could trust the director of Zathura with a Marvel superhero flick. That said, watching the video I was incredibly excited. In fact, I'd say that this was the most excited I've gotten over a non-X/Spider Marvel film in awhile. As I was watching it a second time my wife came and joined me, and she immediately hooked into because of Robert Downey Jr., laughing at most of his lines. With the A-list talent in the film I'm now very confident that not only will this film make hundreds of millions (it's a superhero movie in the summer--it's only news if it doesn't break $200 mil at the box office), but it may actually deserve the tremendous success. And Merin, thanks as always for rising above the fray.
I had remained cautiously optimistic about this film, as I wasn't really sure if I could trust the director of Zathura with a Marvel superhero flick. That said, watching the video I was incredibly excited. In fact, I'd say that this was the most excited I've gotten over a non-X/Spider Marvel film in awhile. As I was watching it a second time my wife came and joined me, and she immediately hooked into because of Robert Downey Jr., laughing at most of his lines. With the A-list talent in the film I'm now very confident that not only will this film make hundreds of millions (it's a superhero movie in the summer--it's only news if it doesn't break $200 mil at the box office), but it may actually deserve the tremendous success. And Merin, thanks as always for rising above the fray.
Bourne Stunt Coord. Hired for BOND 22 - Sep 04, 2007 - 09:42pm
Metalwater, if you can't sense the irony with which Craig makes that statement then you don't get Craig's whole performance. This is him learning to develop the emotional detachment he needs to have. Throughout the film you constantly see his sympathies under the surface, but he is learning how to give up on life and live for Queen and country. Remember he was going to quit, but then she died. The Bitch had died--and with it all his dreams of a happy ending. Now that's a tragic hero.
Metalwater, if you can't sense the irony with which Craig makes that statement then you don't get Craig's whole performance. This is him learning to develop the emotional detachment he needs to have. Throughout the film you constantly see his sympathies under the surface, but he is learning how to give up on life and live for Queen and country. Remember he was going to quit, but then she died. The Bitch had died--and with it all his dreams of a happy ending. Now that's a tragic hero.
Casting Directors Pegged for JLA Movie - Sep 04, 2007 - 05:37am
I enjoy Firefly and Serenity immensely, and a lot of that comes from Fillion's performance as Mal. He also is quite excellent in Waitress, and his time as Caleb in the last season of Buffy was tremendous. However, I don't think his country folksiness is what is needed for the part of Batman. Could he pull of the action and pathos--hell yes. He generally plays a non-cosmopolitan character. The suits are not going to go for that. Metal, you can argue that Bale was a Hollywood nobody until Batman, but it is no way a good argument. He may not have been in anything impressive, to you, but anyone skimming his IMDB list of films will be mightily impressed. I'm not apologizing for Newsies, but I will forgive him for it.
I enjoy Firefly and Serenity immensely, and a lot of that comes from Fillion's performance as Mal. He also is quite excellent in Waitress, and his time as Caleb in the last season of Buffy was tremendous. However, I don't think his country folksiness is what is needed for the part of Batman. Could he pull of the action and pathos--hell yes. He generally plays a non-cosmopolitan character. The suits are not going to go for that. Metal, you can argue that Bale was a Hollywood nobody until Batman, but it is no way a good argument. He may not have been in anything impressive, to you, but anyone skimming his IMDB list of films will be mightily impressed. I'm not apologizing for Newsies, but I will forgive him for it.
Berg, Bateman, Theron Discuss JOHN HANCOCK - Sep 04, 2007 - 05:26am
Two clarifications: 1. The reasons for Buffy's lack of Emmy's are twofold. The snobbery of the Emmy's had more to deal with the concept overall--a teenage girl fighting vampires, ugh. The bigger reason was that it was on the WB. No matter how good the tv was, the WB got very little award-show love. Gilmore Girls, the Kevin Williamson seasons of Dawson's Creek, Buffy, no love for the frog. 2. I know a number of adolescents who hadn't heard of Isaac Aasimov, didn't care about robot a.i., but they lined up for a Will Smith movie. When I first read this I thought to myself, "Whoa, Smith is going to try to play an anti-hero? Maybe this will be more of a comedy."
Two clarifications: 1. The reasons for Buffy's lack of Emmy's are twofold. The snobbery of the Emmy's had more to deal with the concept overall--a teenage girl fighting vampires, ugh. The bigger reason was that it was on the WB. No matter how good the tv was, the WB got very little award-show love. Gilmore Girls, the Kevin Williamson seasons of Dawson's Creek, Buffy, no love for the frog. 2. I know a number of adolescents who hadn't heard of Isaac Aasimov, didn't care about robot a.i., but they lined up for a Will Smith movie. When I first read this I thought to myself, "Whoa, Smith is going to try to play an anti-hero? Maybe this will be more of a comedy."
Bourne Stunt Coord. Hired for BOND 22 - Sep 04, 2007 - 05:18am
I think this is a very good sign about the next Bond flick, as the last Bourne movie was very impressive. I think the stunts and fights in both the last Bond movie and the Bourne series have been incredibly impressive. The chase sequence with the "jumping man" as my wife and I called him in Bond was unbelievable. The fights throughout the movie had that "gritty realism" much more than Connery's "That's a Smith and Wesson, and you've had your six. Now it's time for my two." The latest Bond was definitely influenced greatly by the last Bourne movie, as the new interpretation of Bond matches Bourne. He spends much of the film trying to deal with his newfound authority to kill; even M lectures him on killing the right person at the right time. I look forward to what they will come up with for the new one.
I think this is a very good sign about the next Bond flick, as the last Bourne movie was very impressive. I think the stunts and fights in both the last Bond movie and the Bourne series have been incredibly impressive. The chase sequence with the "jumping man" as my wife and I called him in Bond was unbelievable. The fights throughout the movie had that "gritty realism" much more than Connery's "That's a Smith and Wesson, and you've had your six. Now it's time for my two." The latest Bond was definitely influenced greatly by the last Bourne movie, as the new interpretation of Bond matches Bourne. He spends much of the film trying to deal with his newfound authority to kill; even M lectures him on killing the right person at the right time. I look forward to what they will come up with for the new one.
Cohen Blogs & Plot Devices Emerge for MUMMY 3 - Sep 01, 2007 - 11:20am
If I recall the first one came out three weeks before Star Wars Episode I, and everyone went to see Mummy. We kept saying it wasn't original, but it was a warm-up to the pulpy adventure coolness we expected with Phantom Menace. How sadly we were mistaken... The second one infuriated me because they retconned the backstory (had they hinted at that in the first film, I would have been very impressed). I thought the Scorpion King was actually much better than Mummy Returns. I just wonder if Bello can pull of a British accent.
If I recall the first one came out three weeks before Star Wars Episode I, and everyone went to see Mummy. We kept saying it wasn't original, but it was a warm-up to the pulpy adventure coolness we expected with Phantom Menace. How sadly we were mistaken... The second one infuriated me because they retconned the backstory (had they hinted at that in the first film, I would have been very impressed). I thought the Scorpion King was actually much better than Mummy Returns. I just wonder if Bello can pull of a British accent.
Details of JJ Abrams' 1-18-08 Emerge - Sep 01, 2007 - 07:20am
I think the camera idea and the focus on the everyday people provides a more unique spin to the "typical" monster movie. As long as Abrams doesn't include a scene of using a mammalian pregnancy test on a giant freakin' lizard!
I think the camera idea and the focus on the everyday people provides a more unique spin to the "typical" monster movie. As long as Abrams doesn't include a scene of using a mammalian pregnancy test on a giant freakin' lizard!
Cohen Blogs & Plot Devices Emerge for MUMMY 3 - Sep 01, 2007 - 07:12am
Is it just me or does it sound like they're getting their playbook for this film from the Titan Quest video game? "I guess we milked Egypt to death with three movies; what should we do next? Guys? Guys!?! Get off that computer and help me with the story--" "China." "Cool."
Is it just me or does it sound like they're getting their playbook for this film from the Titan Quest video game? "I guess we milked Egypt to death with three movies; what should we do next? Guys? Guys!?! Get off that computer and help me with the story--" "China." "Cool."
ORDER OF THE PHOENIX Dvd Deleted Scenes - Aug 31, 2007 - 09:22pm
swansong, as a tremendous Harry Potter geek, I really enjoyed. The short version: it wasn't as good as PoA (my fave film), but it had a soul that GoF lacked. For the longer review check out my blog on livejournal (beowulfaz).
swansong, as a tremendous Harry Potter geek, I really enjoyed. The short version: it wasn't as good as PoA (my fave film), but it had a soul that GoF lacked. For the longer review check out my blog on livejournal (beowulfaz).
ORDER OF THE PHOENIX Dvd Deleted Scenes - Aug 30, 2007 - 05:37pm
I actually find it to be more similar to the GoF cover art. Partly the similarity is due to the same basic gray color being used for the background. It's the same basic design of Harry looking rebellious and with his back-up crew (the DA as opposed to the Champions in GoF). Clothing-wise they're out of uniform as well. I'm just glad they didn't go with the "enhanced" Hermione that they had on a few of the posters.
I actually find it to be more similar to the GoF cover art. Partly the similarity is due to the same basic gray color being used for the background. It's the same basic design of Harry looking rebellious and with his back-up crew (the DA as opposed to the Champions in GoF). Clothing-wise they're out of uniform as well. I'm just glad they didn't go with the "enhanced" Hermione that they had on a few of the posters.
Ridley Hired For Lucas' RED TAILS - Aug 28, 2007 - 09:38pm
I know that I am going tangential, but since it's the second anniversary of Katrina I have to say that Spike Lee's documentary, "When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts" is one of the most powerful documentaries in the last decade (and yes, the last decade has been filled with phenomenal docs). Check it out. That said, I love the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, and the HBO movie is an excellent flick. Other than putting the story out there for a broader audience I don't really know if it needs a remake, redo, or reimagining.
I know that I am going tangential, but since it's the second anniversary of Katrina I have to say that Spike Lee's documentary, "When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts" is one of the most powerful documentaries in the last decade (and yes, the last decade has been filled with phenomenal docs). Check it out. That said, I love the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, and the HBO movie is an excellent flick. Other than putting the story out there for a broader audience I don't really know if it needs a remake, redo, or reimagining.
New Red Band BEOWULF Trailer - Aug 26, 2007 - 07:28am
ElvisGump, You can't avoid Beowulf in high school English, because almost every school requires some sort of "British Literature" class. What really matters is the translation of the text--at my school we started using the Seamus Heaney translation and many more kids are enjoying it. Anytime there is a film adaptation of a major work of literature that I teach, I always chuckle. Most adolescents are better with visual recall than with their written memory. When I taught To Kill a Mockingbird, I would always include questions about Aunt Alexandra (who is never mentioned in the film). Every year there is at least one student who will watch the 1966 French art-house version of Fahrenheit 451, and that student will be incredibly confused because Julie Christie plays both female roles in the movie. In a good English class, a teacher will also use pop culture versions to talk about the core ideas of the work. When I teach The Odyssey, we frequently watch scenes from Forrest Gump and O Brother, Where Art Thou. It's highly effective, when used appropriately.
ElvisGump, You can't avoid Beowulf in high school English, because almost every school requires some sort of "British Literature" class. What really matters is the translation of the text--at my school we started using the Seamus Heaney translation and many more kids are enjoying it. Anytime there is a film adaptation of a major work of literature that I teach, I always chuckle. Most adolescents are better with visual recall than with their written memory. When I taught To Kill a Mockingbird, I would always include questions about Aunt Alexandra (who is never mentioned in the film). Every year there is at least one student who will watch the 1966 French art-house version of Fahrenheit 451, and that student will be incredibly confused because Julie Christie plays both female roles in the movie. In a good English class, a teacher will also use pop culture versions to talk about the core ideas of the work. When I teach The Odyssey, we frequently watch scenes from Forrest Gump and O Brother, Where Art Thou. It's highly effective, when used appropriately.
Ang Lee Gets NC-17 For LUST, CAUTION - Aug 24, 2007 - 05:27am
An NC-17 still greatly hurts the profitability of a film though. Consider that I live near the wonderful, sprawling metropolis of Houston, TX, the fourth largest city in the United States and the largest city of "the South." We have only two indepedent film theaters that will actually carry NC-17 movies. With DVD sales also remember that major chain stores (Wal-Mart, Blockbuster) refuse to carry NC-17 films on principle. The MPAA does use an archaic "system" for rating films where it favors violence over nudity and sexuality, female nudity over male nudity, heterosexuality over homosexuality, and major studio films over independent films. For a detailed analysis I highly recommend the wonderful documentary, This Film Is Not Yet Rated.
An NC-17 still greatly hurts the profitability of a film though. Consider that I live near the wonderful, sprawling metropolis of Houston, TX, the fourth largest city in the United States and the largest city of "the South." We have only two indepedent film theaters that will actually carry NC-17 movies. With DVD sales also remember that major chain stores (Wal-Mart, Blockbuster) refuse to carry NC-17 films on principle. The MPAA does use an archaic "system" for rating films where it favors violence over nudity and sexuality, female nudity over male nudity, heterosexuality over homosexuality, and major studio films over independent films. For a detailed analysis I highly recommend the wonderful documentary, This Film Is Not Yet Rated.
HALF BLOOD PRINCE Returning to Wiltshire - Aug 24, 2007 - 05:19am
Does anyone know what Wiltshire had been used for in previous films?
Does anyone know what Wiltshire had been used for in previous films?
New Red Band BEOWULF Trailer - Aug 24, 2007 - 05:17am
Very interesting, but it seems that only a couple of flashes of Grendel's attack at Heorot give it that "red-band" quality. In our first English department meeting, we mentioned that this film was coming out and that it seems to be more "inspired by." Since Neil Gaiman scripted it, I definitely feel that the story will be updated but intact. It's definitely not John Gardner's Grendel.
Very interesting, but it seems that only a couple of flashes of Grendel's attack at Heorot give it that "red-band" quality. In our first English department meeting, we mentioned that this film was coming out and that it seems to be more "inspired by." Since Neil Gaiman scripted it, I definitely feel that the story will be updated but intact. It's definitely not John Gardner's Grendel.
Update: Bay Back on TRANSFORMERS 2 - Aug 22, 2007 - 05:21am
If Bay's directing, then the beach scene on Cybertron will involve an Aerosmith song and animal crackers used in foreplay. Shudder. Damn you Bay!
If Bay's directing, then the beach scene on Cybertron will involve an Aerosmith song and animal crackers used in foreplay. Shudder. Damn you Bay!
Warner Bros Options Darker WIZARD OF OZ Revision - Aug 22, 2007 - 05:20am
Didn't they try this in the 1980s with Return to Oz or some such. If I recall, people hated it because they saw it as destroying their chidhood (even though it was based on a couple of the other Oz books).
Didn't they try this in the 1980s with Return to Oz or some such. If I recall, people hated it because they saw it as destroying their chidhood (even though it was based on a couple of the other Oz books).
Update on Warner Bros' JLA Movie - Aug 20, 2007 - 07:02pm
Without adding fuel to the fire or attacking anyone while speaking as a fan of comic books (and most geek-related things) for most of my life, I would like to make a point: just because something works exceptionally well in a comic book does not mean it will work exceptionally well in a movie. Elektra tried to be more superheroic than Daredevil, and it was abysmal. Fantastic Four tried to be more family friendly than X-Men, and (in my opinion) it insulted my intelligence. Catwoman tried to be ... nah, I can't do it. Creating a film where five to seven diverse heroes each have to be introduced means a lot of exposition, and there will be compromises.
Without adding fuel to the fire or attacking anyone while speaking as a fan of comic books (and most geek-related things) for most of my life, I would like to make a point: just because something works exceptionally well in a comic book does not mean it will work exceptionally well in a movie. Elektra tried to be more superheroic than Daredevil, and it was abysmal. Fantastic Four tried to be more family friendly than X-Men, and (in my opinion) it insulted my intelligence. Catwoman tried to be ... nah, I can't do it. Creating a film where five to seven diverse heroes each have to be introduced means a lot of exposition, and there will be compromises.
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS RPG 4th Edition Announced - Aug 19, 2007 - 01:00pm
Almostunbiased, I love Neverwinter Nights (it and the newest form of Civilizations are the only two games that remain on my PC consistently over the last five or six years). There is also a tremendous modding community out there. A number of quality designers have made fantastic pen-and-paper conversions of old first, second, and third edition modules. There's also a glacier's worth of original content as well. This past spring I had upgraded my video card, and one of my friends pointed out that I can now support NWN 2. I'll probably get it this fall (especially since Spore seems destined for a 2008 release). I'll be curious to see how the modders respond to NWN 2. It's the only DND I play anymore. Sigh.
Almostunbiased, I love Neverwinter Nights (it and the newest form of Civilizations are the only two games that remain on my PC consistently over the last five or six years). There is also a tremendous modding community out there. A number of quality designers have made fantastic pen-and-paper conversions of old first, second, and third edition modules. There's also a glacier's worth of original content as well. This past spring I had upgraded my video card, and one of my friends pointed out that I can now support NWN 2. I'll probably get it this fall (especially since Spore seems destined for a 2008 release). I'll be curious to see how the modders respond to NWN 2. It's the only DND I play anymore. Sigh.
Fanning, Hounson Look For PUSH - Aug 18, 2007 - 01:14am
Whiskeymovie, I'm not trying to insult or attack you, but I strongly disagree with you. I don't think it's ever appropriate to poke fun at rape. There are some things in the world that need to be shown respect because of their severity. Rape is a violent act of control that has little to do with the actual sex act. I haven't seen the film (in fact I think few people have), but I would be very surprised if it was meant to satirize rape or make light of it. That said, The Dakota Fanning Show is one of the few skits I'll actually watch on SNL now (other than Weekend Update). In particular the one where she and her younger sister insult each other is high-larious ("Carol, Dakota's belittling my career. I need dip'n'dots!" "You don't have to call me Carol; you can just call me Mom.") This could be an interesting flick, because Fanning and Hounsou are both tremendous actors.
Whiskeymovie, I'm not trying to insult or attack you, but I strongly disagree with you. I don't think it's ever appropriate to poke fun at rape. There are some things in the world that need to be shown respect because of their severity. Rape is a violent act of control that has little to do with the actual sex act. I haven't seen the film (in fact I think few people have), but I would be very surprised if it was meant to satirize rape or make light of it. That said, The Dakota Fanning Show is one of the few skits I'll actually watch on SNL now (other than Weekend Update). In particular the one where she and her younger sister insult each other is high-larious ("Carol, Dakota's belittling my career. I need dip'n'dots!" "You don't have to call me Carol; you can just call me Mom.") This could be an interesting flick, because Fanning and Hounsou are both tremendous actors.
DUNGEONS & DRAGONS RPG 4th Edition Announced - Aug 17, 2007 - 02:42am
I remember when WotC took over TSR, they had two key development strategies. One, develop solely one game system to then execute through every single RPG system/setting imagineable (hello, D20). Two, do market research up the wazoo to keep developing new products to keep people buying. They came out with class-specific guide books, race-specific guide books, geography-specific guide books, and then guides for every conceiveable facet of the game. Everything about psionics, dragons, undead, truly evil, truly holy, etc. Then they got Eberron to do the process all over again (yeah, sure, I submitted an initial proposal when they had their campaign contest, but when Eberron actually debuted, it felt kind of like when Forgotten Realms came out after Gygax left with Greyhawk. Yeah, I felt a little dirty inside). I'm in my low thirties now, and quite simply I don't have the time (or the social network) to RPG other than NWN on the computer. If I were to invest $100 in brand new source books, it would be for the new edition of Ars Magica, which is quite simply the sweetest RPG I've never played. [Edited becaue I apparently can't tell the difference between homophones right now. (But yes, I've nevered played Ars Magica)]
I remember when WotC took over TSR, they had two key development strategies. One, develop solely one game system to then execute through every single RPG system/setting imagineable (hello, D20). Two, do market research up the wazoo to keep developing new products to keep people buying. They came out with class-specific guide books, race-specific guide books, geography-specific guide books, and then guides for every conceiveable facet of the game. Everything about psionics, dragons, undead, truly evil, truly holy, etc. Then they got Eberron to do the process all over again (yeah, sure, I submitted an initial proposal when they had their campaign contest, but when Eberron actually debuted, it felt kind of like when Forgotten Realms came out after Gygax left with Greyhawk. Yeah, I felt a little dirty inside). I'm in my low thirties now, and quite simply I don't have the time (or the social network) to RPG other than NWN on the computer. If I were to invest $100 in brand new source books, it would be for the new edition of Ars Magica, which is quite simply the sweetest RPG I've never played. [Edited becaue I apparently can't tell the difference between homophones right now. (But yes, I've nevered played Ars Magica)]
Slade to Helm Gaiman's NEVERWHERE - Aug 16, 2007 - 08:22pm
I guess my point is in saying that they needed to be "smarter" with the casting. If they wanted more "commercial" casting then they should have put that guy from High School Musical and Hairspray in it. Then the tweens would have stormed the theater.
I guess my point is in saying that they needed to be "smarter" with the casting. If they wanted more "commercial" casting then they should have put that guy from High School Musical and Hairspray in it. Then the tweens would have stormed the theater.
Slade to Helm Gaiman's NEVERWHERE - Aug 15, 2007 - 07:41am
Metalwater, I have to disagree with you about casting. There is a significant percentage of the adolescent and early twenty-something crowd that only knows DeNiro as an incredible comedic actor (Meet the Parents, Meet the Fockers, Analyze This/That, etc.). Claire Danes may not be a commonly known name for the tween set, but for many of the twenty to thirty year-old cohort, she is still that confused darling from My So-Called Life, and she got critical raves in Shopgirl (which I will pay you one shiny nickel for anyone under the age of eighteen who's seen that movie). For most thirty year olds who watched Tequila Sunrise, Ladyhawke, Dangerous Liasons, or Batman Returns, Michelle Pfeiffer is the definition of hotness. The film was perfectly cast for the 25-35 year old set, and the problem is that it was marketed for the tween age.
Metalwater, I have to disagree with you about casting. There is a significant percentage of the adolescent and early twenty-something crowd that only knows DeNiro as an incredible comedic actor (Meet the Parents, Meet the Fockers, Analyze This/That, etc.). Claire Danes may not be a commonly known name for the tween set, but for many of the twenty to thirty year-old cohort, she is still that confused darling from My So-Called Life, and she got critical raves in Shopgirl (which I will pay you one shiny nickel for anyone under the age of eighteen who's seen that movie). For most thirty year olds who watched Tequila Sunrise, Ladyhawke, Dangerous Liasons, or Batman Returns, Michelle Pfeiffer is the definition of hotness. The film was perfectly cast for the 25-35 year old set, and the problem is that it was marketed for the tween age.
Slade to Helm Gaiman's NEVERWHERE - Aug 14, 2007 - 08:10am
Jarrod, I wonder if your sensitivity to Transformer-taunting has anything to do with the tone of the discussions. I personally am a bit more of a lurker than a regular poster, but since this spring, I've noticed a shift in the discourse both here and over at Aintitcool (where I post much less frequently). Over the last few months (maybe even going back to the spring), there has been an increasing edge when people disagree about films. I've read a lot more people using comments like "The critics or this poster just didn't like the concept and that's why they hated the movie." Basically, they're not geek enough to appreciate the brilliance of the flick. It's a way of negating any discussion and just raising the level of animosity. People who disagree aren't fellow posters or bloggers, they're just haters. And we don't debate with haters. (If this were a political theory site I'd also argue that a similar shift in discussions of politics has gone for about the last six years, but it's not, so I won't). It's not to the point that we're flaming each other, but over the summer I've seen Merin and others post similar messages saying, "No I'm not insulting you, I'm disagreeing with you." It's not as bad as when trolls like spiderr987 used to hijack any thread about Battlestar Galactica, but this summer, I thought the tone of our discussions had definitely changed. I don't know if there's an easy solution to it or if I'm just reading too much into it. I just find it funny that on a Neil Gaiman news item (and we're all pretty much Gaiman fans who have posted), the discussion turned to debating Michael Bay and Transformers (again).
Jarrod, I wonder if your sensitivity to Transformer-taunting has anything to do with the tone of the discussions. I personally am a bit more of a lurker than a regular poster, but since this spring, I've noticed a shift in the discourse both here and over at Aintitcool (where I post much less frequently). Over the last few months (maybe even going back to the spring), there has been an increasing edge when people disagree about films. I've read a lot more people using comments like "The critics or this poster just didn't like the concept and that's why they hated the movie." Basically, they're not geek enough to appreciate the brilliance of the flick. It's a way of negating any discussion and just raising the level of animosity. People who disagree aren't fellow posters or bloggers, they're just haters. And we don't debate with haters. (If this were a political theory site I'd also argue that a similar shift in discussions of politics has gone for about the last six years, but it's not, so I won't). It's not to the point that we're flaming each other, but over the summer I've seen Merin and others post similar messages saying, "No I'm not insulting you, I'm disagreeing with you." It's not as bad as when trolls like spiderr987 used to hijack any thread about Battlestar Galactica, but this summer, I thought the tone of our discussions had definitely changed. I don't know if there's an easy solution to it or if I'm just reading too much into it. I just find it funny that on a Neil Gaiman news item (and we're all pretty much Gaiman fans who have posted), the discussion turned to debating Michael Bay and Transformers (again).
Slade to Helm Gaiman's NEVERWHERE - Aug 13, 2007 - 07:50pm
This is very exciting. If only they do a better job in the promotional department, then Gaiman may get some more success. Now, when will HBO pick up The Sandman for a five-year, sixty episode arc?
This is very exciting. If only they do a better job in the promotional department, then Gaiman may get some more success. Now, when will HBO pick up The Sandman for a five-year, sixty episode arc?
RUSH HOUR 3 Kicks the Competition - Aug 12, 2007 - 10:09pm
Merin, if they had waited for the September or October duldrums, they could have a chance at a better box office. Stardust will make a killing in DVD sales, as the Gaiman legions will appear en masse (we're like Whedon-ites in our obsessions, and I should know as I'm a fan of both).
Merin, if they had waited for the September or October duldrums, they could have a chance at a better box office. Stardust will make a killing in DVD sales, as the Gaiman legions will appear en masse (we're like Whedon-ites in our obsessions, and I should know as I'm a fan of both).
RUSH HOUR 3 Kicks the Competition - Aug 12, 2007 - 09:53pm
I knew that Stardust had no chance to compete against Rush Hour 3 (or either of the other movies in the Top 3), because, quite simply it's original and can't be summarized easily in one sentence. Nor can the concept be easily condensed in a 30-second commercial or a 2-minute trailer. Yes, it's a fairy tale, but it is a fairy tale for grown-ups (the original Neil Gaiman novel is referred to as a "fairy tale for adults"). It's not a romantic comedy, but there are romantic and comedic elements. Yes there are sword fights and magic spells, but it's not fantasy adventure. It's not Shrek 3 which "parodies" the fairy tale by making pop cultural references. Its humor is more British than the crassness of a lot of comedies. The only thing that audiences have to compare to it is Princess Bride, but P.B. has the conceit that the story is being told by grandfather to grandchild. That gives you a way into the world. Not so with Stardust; like most Neil Gaiman works there is simply a world of magic that exists just behind ours. It will probably pick up legs through August (though I doubt it will ever break the Top 3), and I'm sure it will do well worldwide. Metalwater, it isn't a movie for kids. Nor does Rocky and Bullwinkle qualify as a fantasy film. And the most recent Harry Potter movie was one of the best of the series. And I will disagree with any critic who loves either of the Charlie's Angels movies (or the Rush Hour flicks). By the way, according to rottentomatoes.com, C's A got a 66%, C's A: Full Throttle a 41%. The Rush Hour trilogy: 57%, 50%, and 20%. The fresh rating for Stardust is currently at 73%.
I knew that Stardust had no chance to compete against Rush Hour 3 (or either of the other movies in the Top 3), because, quite simply it's original and can't be summarized easily in one sentence. Nor can the concept be easily condensed in a 30-second commercial or a 2-minute trailer. Yes, it's a fairy tale, but it is a fairy tale for grown-ups (the original Neil Gaiman novel is referred to as a "fairy tale for adults"). It's not a romantic comedy, but there are romantic and comedic elements. Yes there are sword fights and magic spells, but it's not fantasy adventure. It's not Shrek 3 which "parodies" the fairy tale by making pop cultural references. Its humor is more British than the crassness of a lot of comedies. The only thing that audiences have to compare to it is Princess Bride, but P.B. has the conceit that the story is being told by grandfather to grandchild. That gives you a way into the world. Not so with Stardust; like most Neil Gaiman works there is simply a world of magic that exists just behind ours. It will probably pick up legs through August (though I doubt it will ever break the Top 3), and I'm sure it will do well worldwide. Metalwater, it isn't a movie for kids. Nor does Rocky and Bullwinkle qualify as a fantasy film. And the most recent Harry Potter movie was one of the best of the series. And I will disagree with any critic who loves either of the Charlie's Angels movies (or the Rush Hour flicks). By the way, according to rottentomatoes.com, C's A got a 66%, C's A: Full Throttle a 41%. The Rush Hour trilogy: 57%, 50%, and 20%. The fresh rating for Stardust is currently at 73%.
Ball Returns To HBO For BLOOD - Aug 10, 2007 - 10:20pm
The vampire angle seems at least different from the two new vampire detective shows coming this fall. I loved Six Feet Under, and HBO has done some varied and fantastic work with Carnivale, Rome, and Big Love in recent years. This intrigues me much more than the psychic surfer boy story.
The vampire angle seems at least different from the two new vampire detective shows coming this fall. I loved Six Feet Under, and HBO has done some varied and fantastic work with Carnivale, Rome, and Big Love in recent years. This intrigues me much more than the psychic surfer boy story.
Matthew Vaughn Set to Direct THOR - Aug 10, 2007 - 10:17pm
I just saw Stardust today, and halfway through the movie I thought, "My god, if only he'd stayed on, X-Men 3 would have been phenomenal." According to interviews (the one I read was on aintitcool.com) Vaughn said that Fox was sticking to a hard timetable, and he needed more time to make it work. He also admits to being the one who brought Kelsey Grammar in as the Beast (which despite my initial misgivings, did work). I really enjoyed Stardust, and I think Vaughn can do tremendous work with a richly established character like Thor. Okay maybe not tremendous, but it should be better than Ghost Rider or Elektra. GAH, sorry my eyes just started bleeding as I remembered those two flicks.
I just saw Stardust today, and halfway through the movie I thought, "My god, if only he'd stayed on, X-Men 3 would have been phenomenal." According to interviews (the one I read was on aintitcool.com) Vaughn said that Fox was sticking to a hard timetable, and he needed more time to make it work. He also admits to being the one who brought Kelsey Grammar in as the Beast (which despite my initial misgivings, did work). I really enjoyed Stardust, and I think Vaughn can do tremendous work with a richly established character like Thor. Okay maybe not tremendous, but it should be better than Ghost Rider or Elektra. GAH, sorry my eyes just started bleeding as I remembered those two flicks.
STARDUST - Aug 10, 2007 - 10:02pm
It's been a bizaare year for me, and I need proof that a just and merciful divine power is still keeping an eyeball on all of us. For the love of all that is sacred, please let Stardust have a better opening than Rush Hour 3. It is an intelligent, literate comedy and adventure which is no way connected to an existing film/television/toy franchise. It is not a movie which bases its plot or characters on rampant homophobia (I'm talking to you Adam Sandler) or racial caricatures and stereotypes (Rush Hour 3, you go to your corner and sit there). Please movie gods, allow America to wake up on this one. "While I'm wishing, I'd like a pony."
It's been a bizaare year for me, and I need proof that a just and merciful divine power is still keeping an eyeball on all of us. For the love of all that is sacred, please let Stardust have a better opening than Rush Hour 3. It is an intelligent, literate comedy and adventure which is no way connected to an existing film/television/toy franchise. It is not a movie which bases its plot or characters on rampant homophobia (I'm talking to you Adam Sandler) or racial caricatures and stereotypes (Rush Hour 3, you go to your corner and sit there). Please movie gods, allow America to wake up on this one. "While I'm wishing, I'd like a pony."
Darabont Addresses FAHRENHEIT 451 Rumors, Details - Aug 08, 2007 - 05:12pm
I agree that this text is entirely relevant to the modern world. I've been teaching it in my high school freshmen English class for the past four years, and what it has to say about our culture now is incredibly important. Plus, some idiot always tries to ban the book (oh, the irony), as happened last year in a local public school district. Funny thing, the parent had never read the book. Sigh. It's so ironic it's almost presidential.
I agree that this text is entirely relevant to the modern world. I've been teaching it in my high school freshmen English class for the past four years, and what it has to say about our culture now is incredibly important. Plus, some idiot always tries to ban the book (oh, the irony), as happened last year in a local public school district. Funny thing, the parent had never read the book. Sigh. It's so ironic it's almost presidential.
POTTER Opens Big With 12 Mil - Jul 12, 2007 - 04:22pm
My full review is in my blog, but here's the short version. Easily my second favorite film in the series (behind Prisoner of Azkaban), and this is my favorite novel (with Prisoner of Azkaban taking second). Great.
My full review is in my blog, but here's the short version. Easily my second favorite film in the series (behind Prisoner of Azkaban), and this is my favorite novel (with Prisoner of Azkaban taking second). Great.
DARK IS RISING Trailer - Jul 12, 2007 - 04:10pm
This makes me feel awful... The Dark is Rising is a fantastic children's fantasy book; the series is far superior in writing to the Chronicles of Narnia. But this trailer has no... spark for lack of a better word. The modern feel, the scenes in the mall, seems to gimicky. I blame Walden Media, because they bastardized Bridge to Teribithia. Gah! I won't all corporate suits to back away from my childhood favorites right now!
This makes me feel awful... The Dark is Rising is a fantastic children's fantasy book; the series is far superior in writing to the Chronicles of Narnia. But this trailer has no... spark for lack of a better word. The modern feel, the scenes in the mall, seems to gimicky. I blame Walden Media, because they bastardized Bridge to Teribithia. Gah! I won't all corporate suits to back away from my childhood favorites right now!
Saoirse Ronan Visits LOVELY BONES - Jul 12, 2007 - 04:03pm
Jackson did have great "finds" with young actresses for Heavenly Creatures (in fairness Kate Winslet had done other things before, but by the look of IMDB, not much). I'm still really having trouble with Ryan Gosling being able to stand on-screen with Rachel Weisz...
Jackson did have great "finds" with young actresses for Heavenly Creatures (in fairness Kate Winslet had done other things before, but by the look of IMDB, not much). I'm still really having trouble with Ryan Gosling being able to stand on-screen with Rachel Weisz...
TRANSFORMERS Rolls Out to Victory - Jul 08, 2007 - 09:49pm
Almostunbiased, with regard to the shorter run-time, the first three books were comparatively shorter than everything else in the series. The first two films were both over 2.5 hours, and they felt like they dragged on (because Colombus was so intent on including every childish moment or character--the bastard). Goblet of Fire and all the books that follow it are more than double the length of Philosopher's Stone. They have to trim an incredible amount, streamlining the plot as it were. Consider the tremendous revision of Barty Crouch Jr. in GoF (and that they reduced the third challenge to aggressive plants--no sphinx, no acromantula, no boggart, no blast-ended skrewts, blasphemy!). I just go into each film hoping that the director has captured the appropriate spirit of the film. Cuaron and Newell both had their own takes which made the films their own entities separate from the books. I already have my tickets for Wednesday!
Almostunbiased, with regard to the shorter run-time, the first three books were comparatively shorter than everything else in the series. The first two films were both over 2.5 hours, and they felt like they dragged on (because Colombus was so intent on including every childish moment or character--the bastard). Goblet of Fire and all the books that follow it are more than double the length of Philosopher's Stone. They have to trim an incredible amount, streamlining the plot as it were. Consider the tremendous revision of Barty Crouch Jr. in GoF (and that they reduced the third challenge to aggressive plants--no sphinx, no acromantula, no boggart, no blast-ended skrewts, blasphemy!). I just go into each film hoping that the director has captured the appropriate spirit of the film. Cuaron and Newell both had their own takes which made the films their own entities separate from the books. I already have my tickets for Wednesday!
Dungeons & Dragons Magic Item Compendium - Jul 08, 2007 - 09:30pm
Oh, and I meant to add the following: If you want to look at true quality in game supplements, personally, I look at the various source and "guide" books for Ars Magica. Such a fantastic game.
Oh, and I meant to add the following: If you want to look at true quality in game supplements, personally, I look at the various source and "guide" books for Ars Magica. Such a fantastic game.
Dungeons & Dragons Magic Item Compendium - Jul 08, 2007 - 09:29pm
Merin, you should also remember that the writer is focusing on texts that provided new magic items. Of the first edition guides, books, and supplements you listed, I don't know how many of them have new magic items. WOTC has developed a successful formula with their guide books, the majority of them include new feats, spells, magic items, prestige classes, and equipment. Every new campaign setting comes with a brand new set of guide books. WOTC are definitely masters of product development and marketing (not necessarily original game development).
Merin, you should also remember that the writer is focusing on texts that provided new magic items. Of the first edition guides, books, and supplements you listed, I don't know how many of them have new magic items. WOTC has developed a successful formula with their guide books, the majority of them include new feats, spells, magic items, prestige classes, and equipment. Every new campaign setting comes with a brand new set of guide books. WOTC are definitely masters of product development and marketing (not necessarily original game development).
Dungeons & Dragons Magic Item Compendium - Jul 07, 2007 - 02:21pm
Merin, I will agree that 2nd edition did have a plethora of guide books containing specific race or class-based items. The author of the review comments that he's specifically talking about the late '70s and early '80s, ADND 1.0 if you will. Had the reviewer qualified it as the first edition of ADND I think it would have made for a much cleaner opening. The Wizards of the Coast is (much more than TSR was) a company that understands marketing and product development. They have one system that works, and they base ever RPG world or game on that system. That individual system, though, can be adapted or specialized in a million different ways depending upon what source books you purchase. And they are going to keep cranking out new source books every fiscal quarter. If I were a teenager now and if I played as much DND as I did back when I was a teenager, I don't know how I would have afforded it. Now, due to a lack of a playing group and the increasing complexity of the miniature-based combat, the only DND I play is called Neverwinter Nights.
Merin, I will agree that 2nd edition did have a plethora of guide books containing specific race or class-based items. The author of the review comments that he's specifically talking about the late '70s and early '80s, ADND 1.0 if you will. Had the reviewer qualified it as the first edition of ADND I think it would have made for a much cleaner opening. The Wizards of the Coast is (much more than TSR was) a company that understands marketing and product development. They have one system that works, and they base ever RPG world or game on that system. That individual system, though, can be adapted or specialized in a million different ways depending upon what source books you purchase. And they are going to keep cranking out new source books every fiscal quarter. If I were a teenager now and if I played as much DND as I did back when I was a teenager, I don't know how I would have afforded it. Now, due to a lack of a playing group and the increasing complexity of the miniature-based combat, the only DND I play is called Neverwinter Nights.
Gosling Up For BONES - Jun 28, 2007 - 10:21pm
Two questions. How is Young Hercules going to hold his own with Rachel Weisz? How is Ryan Gosling going to be believable as Weisz' husband when there's a nine year age difference? I just can't take Gosling seriously in anything since I watched The Notebook during a flight. And I know from The Graduate and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade that age differences in Hollywood don't mean anything. I just... When I think of who would be an emotional equal to Rachel Weisz, Ryan Gosling is one of the furthest names from my mind. What about Kevin Spacey or Gary Sinise or Viggo Mortenson (a little too old there). I just love this book so much, and I would hate to see the casting kill it.
Two questions. How is Young Hercules going to hold his own with Rachel Weisz? How is Ryan Gosling going to be believable as Weisz' husband when there's a nine year age difference? I just can't take Gosling seriously in anything since I watched The Notebook during a flight. And I know from The Graduate and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade that age differences in Hollywood don't mean anything. I just... When I think of who would be an emotional equal to Rachel Weisz, Ryan Gosling is one of the furthest names from my mind. What about Kevin Spacey or Gary Sinise or Viggo Mortenson (a little too old there). I just love this book so much, and I would hate to see the casting kill it.
Myles Set In Vampire's MOONLIGHT - Jun 27, 2007 - 07:30am
I wonder if "Moonlight" is supposed to evoke "Moonlighting," in which case they will have a wacky, bizaare PI office filled with screwball antics... and the undead. Who are they going to get to fill the Ms. Dipesto character? Nah. I'm trying to come up with the last time CBS had a successful supernatural/fantasy/sci-fi show. My memory is failing. I give it about four episodes.
I wonder if "Moonlight" is supposed to evoke "Moonlighting," in which case they will have a wacky, bizaare PI office filled with screwball antics... and the undead. Who are they going to get to fill the Ms. Dipesto character? Nah. I'm trying to come up with the last time CBS had a successful supernatural/fantasy/sci-fi show. My memory is failing. I give it about four episodes.
HARRY POTTER Casting Call - Jun 26, 2007 - 06:13pm
Whiskeymovie, I too am a 31 year-old Potter-phile. I've been rereading the series this summer in anticipation of the upcoming film and book. I will finish up The Order of the Phoenix later this evening. Sadly, I'm actually going to be out of the country when both the book and film come out, so I will have to avoid the internet entirely when I return (until I finish Deatly Hallows). If you want check out my blog http://beowulfaz.livejournal.com for my thoughts on the books as I've been rereading.
Whiskeymovie, I too am a 31 year-old Potter-phile. I've been rereading the series this summer in anticipation of the upcoming film and book. I will finish up The Order of the Phoenix later this evening. Sadly, I'm actually going to be out of the country when both the book and film come out, so I will have to avoid the internet entirely when I return (until I finish Deatly Hallows). If you want check out my blog http://beowulfaz.livejournal.com for my thoughts on the books as I've been rereading.
MARVEL Studio Head Talks Future Movies - Jun 26, 2007 - 08:26am
Popa, I think there are a lot of reasons why super hero films are becoming more popular. One, the teenagers who grew up in the seventies and eighties now are directors, writers, and producers controlling the studios. They create the work that fulfills their dreams. Two, Hollywood thrives on finding what is successful and replicating it as much as possible. Once studios and execs saw how much money they could make from a super hero movie, they all wanted their own piece of the pie. Three, there may be a degree of escapism going on; in a post-9/11 world we look to fantasy and reliable heroes to save us from the destructive world. I think on a sociological level, it's more just the natural spin-off from the fantastical focus of the late '90s. I also argue that good movies are not purely escapist. The good super hero movies (like the good comic books) all have connections and parallels to the modern world, modern problems, and modern issues.
Popa, I think there are a lot of reasons why super hero films are becoming more popular. One, the teenagers who grew up in the seventies and eighties now are directors, writers, and producers controlling the studios. They create the work that fulfills their dreams. Two, Hollywood thrives on finding what is successful and replicating it as much as possible. Once studios and execs saw how much money they could make from a super hero movie, they all wanted their own piece of the pie. Three, there may be a degree of escapism going on; in a post-9/11 world we look to fantasy and reliable heroes to save us from the destructive world. I think on a sociological level, it's more just the natural spin-off from the fantastical focus of the late '90s. I also argue that good movies are not purely escapist. The good super hero movies (like the good comic books) all have connections and parallels to the modern world, modern problems, and modern issues.
DISNEY Stops The Sequel Syndrome - Jun 26, 2007 - 07:56am
Merin, While I agree that Pixar tells better stories than Disney (at least their movies have been better over the last ten years or so), I wouldn't say Pixar's strength comes from their originality. The plot of a Bug's Life is basically a twist on The Three Amigos which was a parody of sorts of The Magnificent Seven which was a Westernized version of The Seven Samurai. The Incredibles plot and characters just seem to blend different elements of the Fantastic Four (and achieves a vastly superior film than the actual FF movie). Pixar uses different source material than classic fairy tales which is mostly where Disney finds their stories, and Pixar definitely creates better movies.
Merin, While I agree that Pixar tells better stories than Disney (at least their movies have been better over the last ten years or so), I wouldn't say Pixar's strength comes from their originality. The plot of a Bug's Life is basically a twist on The Three Amigos which was a parody of sorts of The Magnificent Seven which was a Westernized version of The Seven Samurai. The Incredibles plot and characters just seem to blend different elements of the Fantastic Four (and achieves a vastly superior film than the actual FF movie). Pixar uses different source material than classic fairy tales which is mostly where Disney finds their stories, and Pixar definitely creates better movies.
HARRY POTTER Casting Call - Jun 26, 2007 - 07:41am
I think so. He was in his mid-twenties when filming Chamber of Secrets years ago. He's gotta' be pushing 30 now. And this article suggests that Katie Leung just got the part of Cho Chang for this film, when she was cast back in the fourth film, HP and the Goblet of Fire.
I think so. He was in his mid-twenties when filming Chamber of Secrets years ago. He's gotta' be pushing 30 now. And this article suggests that Katie Leung just got the part of Cho Chang for this film, when she was cast back in the fourth film, HP and the Goblet of Fire.
FANTASTIC FOUR: RISE OF THE SILVER SURFER - Jun 15, 2007 - 06:04pm
I have no intention of paying money to see this film. I caught the first FF because a friend loaned me the DVD. As an avid fan of comic book films, comic books, and good literature in general, I was thoroughly disappointed. IMO, Spider-Man 2, Batman Begins, and X-Men 2 are the best of the super hero movies out there. They blend character, pathos, "canon" story, and action in a satisfying film. I even enjoy some of the "bad" ones (Constantine and Daredevil). The first FF falls in the bottom layer of Dante's Inferno with Catwoman, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, and Elektra. Again, IMO, I would rather just watch The Incredibles which truly captured the dysfunctional family energy very well.
I have no intention of paying money to see this film. I caught the first FF because a friend loaned me the DVD. As an avid fan of comic book films, comic books, and good literature in general, I was thoroughly disappointed. IMO, Spider-Man 2, Batman Begins, and X-Men 2 are the best of the super hero movies out there. They blend character, pathos, "canon" story, and action in a satisfying film. I even enjoy some of the "bad" ones (Constantine and Daredevil). The first FF falls in the bottom layer of Dante's Inferno with Catwoman, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, and Elektra. Again, IMO, I would rather just watch The Incredibles which truly captured the dysfunctional family energy very well.
Warner's Goes for SHANNARA Series - Jun 07, 2007 - 08:39am
Spiderparker, Wheel of Time is good? C'mon. I remember reading the first four or five books and loving them, the same way that I love watching The Mummy or Star Trek: Voyager. It's not original; it's not expertly crafted. But it's familiarity seems comforting like eating chips and store-bought nacho cheese. You know it's not actually good for you, but it satisfies you. The more I read into the series, the more self-derivative I found it. When the first forty pages are simply recapping the previous books in the series, when he has three key male characters and he leaves on of them out entirely of a novel, when he has only three descriptions he uses for female characters, when he "borrows" so easily from every other fantasy author out there... it's just not good. That said, I really liked the bits with Perrin and the wolf dream. That's about it though. A movie studio would have to condense/cut two-thirds of the plot to create a workable movie, and the edits would be so drastic that it would make the LOTR-fanatics and Potter-purists who flamed the known universe each time a character's line was different in the movie seem like children whining for more ice cream after dinner. Clearly some studio will attempt, but it will be abysmal.
Spiderparker, Wheel of Time is good? C'mon. I remember reading the first four or five books and loving them, the same way that I love watching The Mummy or Star Trek: Voyager. It's not original; it's not expertly crafted. But it's familiarity seems comforting like eating chips and store-bought nacho cheese. You know it's not actually good for you, but it satisfies you. The more I read into the series, the more self-derivative I found it. When the first forty pages are simply recapping the previous books in the series, when he has three key male characters and he leaves on of them out entirely of a novel, when he has only three descriptions he uses for female characters, when he "borrows" so easily from every other fantasy author out there... it's just not good. That said, I really liked the bits with Perrin and the wolf dream. That's about it though. A movie studio would have to condense/cut two-thirds of the plot to create a workable movie, and the edits would be so drastic that it would make the LOTR-fanatics and Potter-purists who flamed the known universe each time a character's line was different in the movie seem like children whining for more ice cream after dinner. Clearly some studio will attempt, but it will be abysmal.
DeSanto Visits CITY OF HEROES - Jun 07, 2007 - 08:28am
I played City of Heroes for a year and really enjoyed it... mostly. I just got tired of the MMORPG nature. Level grind, badge hunt, task force missions, lather, rinse, repeat. To a certain extent it becomes monotonous. The community itself changed. Originally we would get into discussions on the board about politics, racism, education, and people took the time to think about the on-line community they were creating. (Granted there were still annoying twelve year-olds whose immaturity was legendary). Then they introduced the PVP arena and City of Villains. It became a much more competitive place when that happened. Personally, I found that to be really antithetical to the whole idea of playing heroes. That said, the game has one of the single best character creation formats and is probably the very best original super hero video game out there. In terms of stories and mythologies worked into the game it is all there. I assume the script will focus on the support characters within the game, the original heroes of Paragon City. Just as long as it's better than FF, Elektra, and Ghost Rider, I'll be hap-- Who am I kidding? I'll never pay money to see it.
I played City of Heroes for a year and really enjoyed it... mostly. I just got tired of the MMORPG nature. Level grind, badge hunt, task force missions, lather, rinse, repeat. To a certain extent it becomes monotonous. The community itself changed. Originally we would get into discussions on the board about politics, racism, education, and people took the time to think about the on-line community they were creating. (Granted there were still annoying twelve year-olds whose immaturity was legendary). Then they introduced the PVP arena and City of Villains. It became a much more competitive place when that happened. Personally, I found that to be really antithetical to the whole idea of playing heroes. That said, the game has one of the single best character creation formats and is probably the very best original super hero video game out there. In terms of stories and mythologies worked into the game it is all there. I assume the script will focus on the support characters within the game, the original heroes of Paragon City. Just as long as it's better than FF, Elektra, and Ghost Rider, I'll be hap-- Who am I kidding? I'll never pay money to see it.
Warner's Goes for SHANNARA Series - Jun 06, 2007 - 05:04pm
Like many posters I read the first Shannara series sometime in middle school (I think like sixth grade). Is it the best fantasy literature? No. Is it better than average, yeah. (I know a ringing endorsement). I never made much headway into the Scions of Shannara, because they seemed to be highly derivative of the original Shannara series. Aren't there two virtually identical assassins (Garret Jax in Elfstones oS and someone with an unbreakable sword in Druid oS)? What I find intriquing about the series is how the fantastical world is apparently some sort of post-apocalyptic earth. Maybe it gets clarified in the later series, but the basic geography and some of the references to technology make the country North America(an idea nicely borrowed by Robert Jordan's "ages" on the Wheel of Time). As much as it is to play the game of how derivative all fantasy literature is, it's not about Tolkein or DND. It's about the epic Hero Cycle. The Iliad, The Odysseus, The Aeniad, Gilgamesh. It's all been done before. What's funny is just yesterday I made a comment on another thread about studios are buying up every single YA fantasy-themed literary series they could... I'm psychic!
Like many posters I read the first Shannara series sometime in middle school (I think like sixth grade). Is it the best fantasy literature? No. Is it better than average, yeah. (I know a ringing endorsement). I never made much headway into the Scions of Shannara, because they seemed to be highly derivative of the original Shannara series. Aren't there two virtually identical assassins (Garret Jax in Elfstones oS and someone with an unbreakable sword in Druid oS)? What I find intriquing about the series is how the fantastical world is apparently some sort of post-apocalyptic earth. Maybe it gets clarified in the later series, but the basic geography and some of the references to technology make the country North America(an idea nicely borrowed by Robert Jordan's "ages" on the Wheel of Time). As much as it is to play the game of how derivative all fantasy literature is, it's not about Tolkein or DND. It's about the epic Hero Cycle. The Iliad, The Odysseus, The Aeniad, Gilgamesh. It's all been done before. What's funny is just yesterday I made a comment on another thread about studios are buying up every single YA fantasy-themed literary series they could... I'm psychic!
Moore on GALACTICA End - Jun 05, 2007 - 08:19pm
Actually, there were two Dune mini-series for the first three books in the series. Both of them were quite excellent. The first was better, in part, because it was only focusing on one book's events not merging two together. It seems almost every literary series with a fantastical quality is finding it's way to the big screen due to the successes of HP and LOTR. Chronicles of Narnia, His Dark Materials, even The Dark is Rising (Susan Cooper you are a literary rock star in my world). I even read something in TV Guide this week about a sci-fi interpretation of the Wizard of Oz called "Tin Man." What is left? Spiderr987... sigh. What a tosser.
Actually, there were two Dune mini-series for the first three books in the series. Both of them were quite excellent. The first was better, in part, because it was only focusing on one book's events not merging two together. It seems almost every literary series with a fantastical quality is finding it's way to the big screen due to the successes of HP and LOTR. Chronicles of Narnia, His Dark Materials, even The Dark is Rising (Susan Cooper you are a literary rock star in my world). I even read something in TV Guide this week about a sci-fi interpretation of the Wizard of Oz called "Tin Man." What is left? Spiderr987... sigh. What a tosser.
PIRATES Grabs Booty at Awards - Jun 04, 2007 - 09:05pm
CappyMorgan, you are correct. Every single presenter is there to promote a film coming out in the next six weeks. This year with the Best Film You Haven't Seen Yet category they clearly have dropped all pretense of being anything other than a two hour long commercial. I lost track of the number of Transformer commercials and previews I saw. Like most things on MTV, the initial conception of the Movie Awards may have been truly counter-cultural and rocking the establishment. Hell, Jackie Chan won an award three years before he was a household name in the US. Now, it is all about promotion. Pirates as best film of the year? Thirteen year-olds have no taste. Sarah Silvernan clearly looked like she was pulling punches (other than the Paris bit). I thought she was so much better on the last Comic Relief.
CappyMorgan, you are correct. Every single presenter is there to promote a film coming out in the next six weeks. This year with the Best Film You Haven't Seen Yet category they clearly have dropped all pretense of being anything other than a two hour long commercial. I lost track of the number of Transformer commercials and previews I saw. Like most things on MTV, the initial conception of the Movie Awards may have been truly counter-cultural and rocking the establishment. Hell, Jackie Chan won an award three years before he was a household name in the US. Now, it is all about promotion. Pirates as best film of the year? Thirteen year-olds have no taste. Sarah Silvernan clearly looked like she was pulling punches (other than the Paris bit). I thought she was so much better on the last Comic Relief.
Lucas Plans Two More STAR WARS - May 09, 2007 - 05:58pm
As long as someone else writes the dialogue (and the story) I'm okay with more of the Star Wars world coming into existence. Personally, I still haven't forgiven him for the prequels.
As long as someone else writes the dialogue (and the story) I'm okay with more of the Star Wars world coming into existence. Personally, I still haven't forgiven him for the prequels.
LOST Producers Look Towards End - May 08, 2007 - 06:36pm
I think this is a great idea on their part. No X-Files going on forever and ever. No Firefly being cancelled mid-season. No Twin Peaks trying to pull an ending out of its ass in two episodes. This allows them to tell just as much story as they want to without having to eke out details.
I think this is a great idea on their part. No X-Files going on forever and ever. No Firefly being cancelled mid-season. No Twin Peaks trying to pull an ending out of its ass in two episodes. This allows them to tell just as much story as they want to without having to eke out details.
DreamWorks Grabs Jackson's BONES - May 05, 2007 - 07:21am
I really think Heavenly Creatures was a hauntingly beautiful film, and I absolutely adored The Lovely Bones. It was the first novel in awhile that made me actually cry as I read it. (Alice Sebold's memoir "Lucky" about her experience being raped her freshman year in college is also gripping stuff.) I remember I was very excited when I heard that this would be his next project, post-Kong. The full versions of the LOTR films show that he and his creative team have a fantastic sense of how to capture the heart and spirit of a novel. My wife, by-the-by, believes that any film version will ruin it.
I really think Heavenly Creatures was a hauntingly beautiful film, and I absolutely adored The Lovely Bones. It was the first novel in awhile that made me actually cry as I read it. (Alice Sebold's memoir "Lucky" about her experience being raped her freshman year in college is also gripping stuff.) I remember I was very excited when I heard that this would be his next project, post-Kong. The full versions of the LOTR films show that he and his creative team have a fantastic sense of how to capture the heart and spirit of a novel. My wife, by-the-by, believes that any film version will ruin it.
"Harry Potter" International Trailer Online - Apr 23, 2007 - 06:30pm
Books, books, books... Excellent. I enjoy Tolkien as he is doing the epic; it's the same way I enjoy a good translation of Homer. While it's fantasy, it's an entirely different sub-genre if you will. Terry Brooks seemed like Tolkien redux (with shades of post-apocalyptic America in there). I enjoyed the first couple of Feist series, but on re-reading them a few years ago, I couldn't get the same interest level going. Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time... sigh. I read the first four(?) and loved them. Epic, Tolkien-esque, playing with familiar archetypes. Since then the series has become far too convoluted with far too many character (with the majority of female characters being indistinguishable). I haven't been interested in that series in a very long time. Eddings, now that is kiddie literature. While Potter began as a children's fantasy series, with Goblet of Fire, Rowling brought the game to a more Young Adult level. Granted they deal with emotions and attractions in a very basic level, they are becoming young adults. The larger social themes and political criticisms within the book (some of which begin back in COS), are rather maturely presented. That said. Kickin' trailer. I'm very excited for the flick. POA is probably my favorite film and (right now) OotP is my favorite book. Sure he's a little angsty, but I also love The Catcher in the Rye. I love Dumbledore's Army and seeing him tackle Umbridge. Fantastic stuff!
Books, books, books... Excellent. I enjoy Tolkien as he is doing the epic; it's the same way I enjoy a good translation of Homer. While it's fantasy, it's an entirely different sub-genre if you will. Terry Brooks seemed like Tolkien redux (with shades of post-apocalyptic America in there). I enjoyed the first couple of Feist series, but on re-reading them a few years ago, I couldn't get the same interest level going. Robert Jordan's Wheel of Time... sigh. I read the first four(?) and loved them. Epic, Tolkien-esque, playing with familiar archetypes. Since then the series has become far too convoluted with far too many character (with the majority of female characters being indistinguishable). I haven't been interested in that series in a very long time. Eddings, now that is kiddie literature. While Potter began as a children's fantasy series, with Goblet of Fire, Rowling brought the game to a more Young Adult level. Granted they deal with emotions and attractions in a very basic level, they are becoming young adults. The larger social themes and political criticisms within the book (some of which begin back in COS), are rather maturely presented. That said. Kickin' trailer. I'm very excited for the flick. POA is probably my favorite film and (right now) OotP is my favorite book. Sure he's a little angsty, but I also love The Catcher in the Rye. I love Dumbledore's Army and seeing him tackle Umbridge. Fantastic stuff!
"Neuromancer" - Apr 23, 2007 - 04:55am
This is a tremendously important book not just for the genre, but for creating the internet and advanced technologies now. Written on a manual typewriter in the early '80s, Gibson created the phrase "cyberspace," and that has made all the difference. I don't know if a Neuromancer film could work in all honesty. Too many illiterate teenagers would see it as ripping off The Matrix.
This is a tremendously important book not just for the genre, but for creating the internet and advanced technologies now. Written on a manual typewriter in the early '80s, Gibson created the phrase "cyberspace," and that has made all the difference. I don't know if a Neuromancer film could work in all honesty. Too many illiterate teenagers would see it as ripping off The Matrix.
"Lost: Catch-22" - Apr 21, 2007 - 06:02pm
I think the "no flashback" episode is a little bit of a misnomer. Locke's episode will feature flashbacks, but they will flashback to his time with the Others (basically from the end moment of "The Man from Talahassee"). It will be similar to the Juliet episode which flashed back to her arrival on the island.
I think the "no flashback" episode is a little bit of a misnomer. Locke's episode will feature flashbacks, but they will flashback to his time with the Others (basically from the end moment of "The Man from Talahassee"). It will be similar to the Juliet episode which flashed back to her arrival on the island.
Videogame Movies: The Good, The Bad and The Worse. - Apr 17, 2007 - 06:25pm
I cannot believe that you are seriously comparing Blade and The Matrix. Blade obviously was the first time in the Western Canon where a hero wore all black (including sunglasses). And no one has ever thought of the idea of a character dodging bullets. Puh-lease. While Blade may have done the scene earlier, the Matrix did bullet time better. (Compare Jar-Jar Binks to Gollum in The Two Towers. Jar-Jar came first, so Peter Jackson clearly stole the idea of an entirely CGI sidekick). Dark City was an exceptional flick, but I am not surprised it did not do well at the box office. While the plot (from a sci-fi perspective) and the philosophical questions are very similar, Dark City was just not as "cool" for the typical audience. It felt like the 1940's; there were no guns. Cool special effects, but no crazy martial arts. There were no guns and no explosions. The Matrix appealed to a broader audience because it hid the philosophy behind explosions, martial arts fights, crazy effects, and people looking very cool. I'm also someone who thought The Matrix as a trilogy was much stronger than any of the individual parts. If you look at all three as a single story, you follow the archetypal Hero Cycle, you move from the computer world to the real world. The philosophical questions of identity, faith, and self-awareness become much richer. At least for me. Here's a depressing Geek thought: Neuromancer, if it were ever made into a film, would be received as a Matrix clone even though it started the whole ball a rolling.
I cannot believe that you are seriously comparing Blade and The Matrix. Blade obviously was the first time in the Western Canon where a hero wore all black (including sunglasses). And no one has ever thought of the idea of a character dodging bullets. Puh-lease. While Blade may have done the scene earlier, the Matrix did bullet time better. (Compare Jar-Jar Binks to Gollum in The Two Towers. Jar-Jar came first, so Peter Jackson clearly stole the idea of an entirely CGI sidekick). Dark City was an exceptional flick, but I am not surprised it did not do well at the box office. While the plot (from a sci-fi perspective) and the philosophical questions are very similar, Dark City was just not as "cool" for the typical audience. It felt like the 1940's; there were no guns. Cool special effects, but no crazy martial arts. There were no guns and no explosions. The Matrix appealed to a broader audience because it hid the philosophy behind explosions, martial arts fights, crazy effects, and people looking very cool. I'm also someone who thought The Matrix as a trilogy was much stronger than any of the individual parts. If you look at all three as a single story, you follow the archetypal Hero Cycle, you move from the computer world to the real world. The philosophical questions of identity, faith, and self-awareness become much richer. At least for me. Here's a depressing Geek thought: Neuromancer, if it were ever made into a film, would be received as a Matrix clone even though it started the whole ball a rolling.
Videogame Movies: The Good, The Bad and The Worse. - Apr 16, 2007 - 08:14pm
Let me run through a list for you MetalWatero: Blood splatter used throughout the film (even as a stylized font). Rape enacted on screen (with nudity). Frontal nudity. Thousands of humans killed with realistic (or stylistic) bloodshed. One of these alone could garner an R-rating depending on the right (or wrong) context. All three of these clinched the deal for 300. It's rather specious logic to use as an example of a PG-rated film with nudity a film that was made before PG-13 even existed. Film ratings are inherently politically based decisions depending on levels or depictions of violence, nudity, sexual acts, sexual orientations, and drug use. If you're interested, I highly recommend checking out This Film Is Not Yet Rated. Though it was well-received on AintItCool, so you'll probably boycott it. I enjoyed 300, but did not find it to be the greatest cinematic adventure it was hyped to be. The CGI made the world too flat and unemotional. I also thought Sin City was quite excellent; it captured the visual style and atmosphere of the Frank Miller comic well. I also loved Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill. Why then, didn't I go see Grindhouse? Because I have no interest in a three-hour homage to '70s B-level movies. In the broader sense, I think "Geek culture" is having a field day. Neil Gaiman books are being adapted into movies (Stardust). Comics (in tpd) are accessible in chain bookstores. Heroes and Lost are still thriving (relatively) on major networks; Battlestar Galactica is coming back on Sci-Fi. Fantastic television. I'm sorry if TV and movied based on video games aren't doing well. (Wing Commander--excuse me while I taste my own vomit). Video games have never made actually good movies. They aren't constructed for stories in the same way that comics, books, or film are.
Let me run through a list for you MetalWatero: Blood splatter used throughout the film (even as a stylized font). Rape enacted on screen (with nudity). Frontal nudity. Thousands of humans killed with realistic (or stylistic) bloodshed. One of these alone could garner an R-rating depending on the right (or wrong) context. All three of these clinched the deal for 300. It's rather specious logic to use as an example of a PG-rated film with nudity a film that was made before PG-13 even existed. Film ratings are inherently politically based decisions depending on levels or depictions of violence, nudity, sexual acts, sexual orientations, and drug use. If you're interested, I highly recommend checking out This Film Is Not Yet Rated. Though it was well-received on AintItCool, so you'll probably boycott it. I enjoyed 300, but did not find it to be the greatest cinematic adventure it was hyped to be. The CGI made the world too flat and unemotional. I also thought Sin City was quite excellent; it captured the visual style and atmosphere of the Frank Miller comic well. I also loved Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill. Why then, didn't I go see Grindhouse? Because I have no interest in a three-hour homage to '70s B-level movies. In the broader sense, I think "Geek culture" is having a field day. Neil Gaiman books are being adapted into movies (Stardust). Comics (in tpd) are accessible in chain bookstores. Heroes and Lost are still thriving (relatively) on major networks; Battlestar Galactica is coming back on Sci-Fi. Fantastic television. I'm sorry if TV and movied based on video games aren't doing well. (Wing Commander--excuse me while I taste my own vomit). Video games have never made actually good movies. They aren't constructed for stories in the same way that comics, books, or film are.
MPAA Disciplines "Captivity" - Mar 31, 2007 - 06:20am
Two different points which I agree with across the board: 1. If this film had been distributed by Sony or Paramount or any of the other big studios the "punishment" would have been much, much lighter. MPAA always comes down much harder on the indepdendent or smaller studios. If you doubt this, watch the documentary This Film Is Not Yet Rated (simply fantastic). 2. Torture porn is clearly on the rise, but I see it as increasing in popularity for about the last five or six years. Honestly, I only heard the term torture porn about three or months ago in either an entertainment mag or on one of these forums, but I've been noticing the trend for awhile. A lot more tv dramas are dedicated to solving violent sexual crimes committed against women. Law and Order SVU and CSI (the original in particular) are both based largely on this fusion of violence and sex. Last week's episode of CSI featured the murder of six Vegas showgirls, and vividly the pathologist is shown cleaning the bodies, inspecting the wounds, gathering evidence. All of these beautiful women lay there naked with their throats sliced open. I know that the horror movie has long thrived on watching the attractive, buxom blond get killed in the first fifteen minutes, but now, more often then not, it is about the sexual violence, and the body after the fact is still sexualized.
Two different points which I agree with across the board: 1. If this film had been distributed by Sony or Paramount or any of the other big studios the "punishment" would have been much, much lighter. MPAA always comes down much harder on the indepdendent or smaller studios. If you doubt this, watch the documentary This Film Is Not Yet Rated (simply fantastic). 2. Torture porn is clearly on the rise, but I see it as increasing in popularity for about the last five or six years. Honestly, I only heard the term torture porn about three or months ago in either an entertainment mag or on one of these forums, but I've been noticing the trend for awhile. A lot more tv dramas are dedicated to solving violent sexual crimes committed against women. Law and Order SVU and CSI (the original in particular) are both based largely on this fusion of violence and sex. Last week's episode of CSI featured the murder of six Vegas showgirls, and vividly the pathologist is shown cleaning the bodies, inspecting the wounds, gathering evidence. All of these beautiful women lay there naked with their throats sliced open. I know that the horror movie has long thrived on watching the attractive, buxom blond get killed in the first fifteen minutes, but now, more often then not, it is about the sexual violence, and the body after the fact is still sexualized.
Emma Watson done with "Harry Potter"? - Mar 19, 2007 - 05:42pm
I'd like to clarify a few details as a crazy Potterphile. Emma Watson has made statements like this since the third film. She is not a career actress and does not want to pursue an acting career. Radcliffe and Grint are in it for the long haul, and they both have already taken on projects to insure that they will have careers outside of the kid flicks. Remember that initially they were hired as tweens by Christopher Columbus. Columbus wanted cute kids who most importantly looked the part and that could follow his simple directions. (That's partly why the acting is so bad in the first two films). Columbus wasn't looking for quality thespians; he wanted children to look the part and who could be molded. Adolescence has totally destroyed many of the characters' images: Neville Longbottom for example. Emma like Radcliffe rocked her A level exams and could get into any number of good schools. Committing to the last two movies means putting that off for at least three more years. Yes the money will be fantastic, but imagine if you got into your wonder school but had to put it off for three years. Consider being a college freshman at 21. That might royally suck. Those of jonesing for the American girl, sorry. Jo Rowling has a hard-nosed policy about getting people of the actual nationalities to play their parts, especially for the major characters. She vetoed Haley Joel Osment for the role of Harry (which meant Spielberg passed on directing), even though he was arguably one of the best child actors of the time. She simply won't allow an American to play one of the big three.
I'd like to clarify a few details as a crazy Potterphile. Emma Watson has made statements like this since the third film. She is not a career actress and does not want to pursue an acting career. Radcliffe and Grint are in it for the long haul, and they both have already taken on projects to insure that they will have careers outside of the kid flicks. Remember that initially they were hired as tweens by Christopher Columbus. Columbus wanted cute kids who most importantly looked the part and that could follow his simple directions. (That's partly why the acting is so bad in the first two films). Columbus wasn't looking for quality thespians; he wanted children to look the part and who could be molded. Adolescence has totally destroyed many of the characters' images: Neville Longbottom for example. Emma like Radcliffe rocked her A level exams and could get into any number of good schools. Committing to the last two movies means putting that off for at least three more years. Yes the money will be fantastic, but imagine if you got into your wonder school but had to put it off for three years. Consider being a college freshman at 21. That might royally suck. Those of jonesing for the American girl, sorry. Jo Rowling has a hard-nosed policy about getting people of the actual nationalities to play their parts, especially for the major characters. She vetoed Haley Joel Osment for the role of Harry (which meant Spielberg passed on directing), even though he was arguably one of the best child actors of the time. She simply won't allow an American to play one of the big three.
"Battlestar Galactica" to become an RPG - Dec 29, 2006 - 10:40pm
Whoa indeed. With the quick, seemingly reflexive attack on Battlestar Galactica and the pointless homophobic slur, I wonder if "bdd" is good ole' Spider967 hanging out in disguise. If not BDD, my apologies, but you do have to admit that your tone seems a little on the confrontational and aggressive. To stay on topic, I never saw the Serenity game, but I am intrigued. I actually liked the pre-D20 sci-fi game that Wizards put out. Dark Matters was their modern campaign setting, but I can't remember the name of the space opera one. Oh well...
Whoa indeed. With the quick, seemingly reflexive attack on Battlestar Galactica and the pointless homophobic slur, I wonder if "bdd" is good ole' Spider967 hanging out in disguise. If not BDD, my apologies, but you do have to admit that your tone seems a little on the confrontational and aggressive. To stay on topic, I never saw the Serenity game, but I am intrigued. I actually liked the pre-D20 sci-fi game that Wizards put out. Dark Matters was their modern campaign setting, but I can't remember the name of the space opera one. Oh well...
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I'm all for detailed description and a re-imagining of the Hero Cycle, and I really enjoyed the blending of different mythologies into the characters. That said, the last good book in the series was the fifth one (where Perrin saves the hometown). What kills me about it is the amazingly flat characterization of female characters. They are almost all virtually interchangeable. They all seem to tug on their braid or cross their arms underneath their bosoms. There is quite simply no feasible way for them to produce twelve films. Every studio is desparate for the next HP/LOTR, but it is so tricky. The Dark is Rising series died when they brutally savaged the first book, and the Narnia series is not fairing too well. And these are the series geared to the young adult crowd. As this is a more adult flavor (and complex in its narrative) it's going to be very difficult (expensive) to make it for anything higher than a PG-13 rating. Even condensing the plot of all twelve books to three films would simply leave too much to do.