tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49043414829532777462024-03-13T13:32:55.050-07:00ForComicJunkiesMy name is JJ and this is my blog. I like to talk about comic books, movies, TV shows, etc and so on and so forth. I write the way I talk so it may seem a bit scatterbrained but that's just how my mind works. Also I try to be funny so sometimes if I say odd things don't take offense to it. It's just me trying to be goofy and fun. Enjoy!For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.comBlogger409125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-87060279538708593802018-10-22T19:27:00.001-07:002018-10-22T19:27:27.015-07:008 THINGS A NEW SUPERMAN TV SHOW CAN DO TO BE DIFFERENT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Not too long ago there were rumors of Tyler Hoechlin's Superman being considered for a potential spin off TV series. While the CW and Warner Bros have denied this as being accurate but truthfully I think this is worth considering. True we have <i>Supergirl </i>and that show is wonderful but I think there is a lot to mine from Superman's 80 year history. There's a reason that every several years there is a new Superman series either live action or animated (including the <i>Justice League </i>animated series). I think the CW would be wise to try their hand at a full fledged Superman series. Here are a few suggestions I have on how to make a new Superman series different from its predecessors.<br />
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<b>EXPLORE THE MULTIVERSE WITH HEROIC SUPERMEN</b></div>
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On <i>The Flash, </i>the producers and writers have done a wonderful job of exploring alternate timelines and the multiverse. The other shows don't really go there too much, save for <i>Crisis on Earth X</i>, and I think that would be where a Superman show could be really exceptional. Throughout DC Comics history there have been multiple fascinating versions of alternate Superman - there's <i>Kingdom Come, Red Son, </i>Val Zod on Earth 2, Calvin Ellis (a Superman based on Barack Obama), and many others. I'd love to see a Superman series that wasn't afraid to bring all these different Supermen to life and show Clark how different his life could be under different circumstances. Or worse yet . . . </div>
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<b>. . . AND EVIL SUPERMEN </b></div>
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One thing I've been advocating for since the first time the Multiverse was mentioned on <i>The Flash </i>has been the arrival of the Crime Syndicate of America. Granted we got a version of this group during <i>Crisis on Earth X </i>we have yet to see a fully fledged Crime Syndicate. A Superman series would be perfect to explore not only heroic alternate Supermen but evil ones as well. Ultraman is an amazing character. I'd love to see this inverted Superman invade Clark's world and really mess things up. Tom Welling played a version of this character on <i>Smallville </i>but I'd love to see an all out brawl between the heroic Clark Kent and his monstrous doppelganger. Plus the one from Geoff Johns's (my man) <i>Forever Evil </i>was a really twisted Superman. He snorted Kryptonite for strength and is allergic to sunlight. It's pretty bizarre but I'd expect nothing less from Johns. That's the Ultraman I want to see challenge our heroic Kal El. </div>
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<b>JON KENT</b></div>
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One of the best characters to come out of DC's Rebirth is definitely Clark and Lois's son, Jon. While he's taken on the mantle of Superboy he's nothing like Clark was when he was a kid or Conner Kent. He's his own young man trying to find his place in the world. He's wonderfully naive but has a good heart. In the early issues of <i>Superman Rebirth, </i>Jon struggled to control his powers but eventually found a way to use them to help others and fight by his father's side. One of the most praised elements of <i>Black Lightning </i>is showing an older superhero with young daughters that he's training to carry on the good fight. I'd love to see a Clark Kent have to train his son on how to be a hero in a similar fashion. But not like <i>The Flash </i>where he is time displaced, I'd love to see Jon that's actually Lois and Clark's son and is working on getting a good handle on his powers. </div>
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<b>REIGN OF THE SUPERMEN</b></div>
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Now I'm not saying we need to get into the whole <i>Death of Superman </i>storyline (although if a Superman show exists it will definitely explore this territory) but I'd love to see some of these characters done on the CW. Granted David Harewood played Cyborg Superman but I gotta say that it was written poorly. Considering how great his Hank Henshaw was in flashbacks in season one, it's disapppointing that one of Superman and Supergirl's greatest enemies was reduced to a thug for hire during season two. Plus we have yet to get a great portrayal of Steel in any live action iteration. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I rest my case</span></div>
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<i>Supergirl </i>could easily introduce Natasha Irons or even John Henry Irons to the show. It's surprising to me that they haven't done that yet. Also the Eradicator is an awesome force to be reckoned with. I'd love to see him done on screen as a super-big-bad. These are such great characters that haven't been used yet in the Arrowverse. I'd say I'd love to see Conner Kent but if rumors are true we'll be seeing him soon enough on <i>Titans</i>. </div>
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<b> CROSSOVER WITH <i>KRYPTON</i></b></div>
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Soooooo . . . this is probably a super (pun intended) long shot but how great would this be? There are always rumors that Superman will appear on this show or that show but honestly it seems almost inevitable on <i>Krypton</i>. The show is all about protecting Superman's legacy so it seems inevitable that Kal El will meet up with Seg El at some point, probably during the last episode. But I'm greedy and impatient and I'd love to see that happen sooner rather than later. Plus the actor that plays Seg El, Cameron Cuffe, is such a huge nerd that he might campaign for a role on a potential Superman show. And you know what? He's a damn good actor. I'd cast him in a heartbeat. Even if it wasn't a Superman/<i>Krypton </i>crossover. </div>
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<b>STRONG FOCUS ON LOIS LANE</b></div>
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I had a previous blog post about how Lois Lane deserves her own TV show, and here we have an opportunity to give Lois the spotlight. Granted we had <i>Lois and Clark </i>where Lois really drove the action of the series due to her investigative journalism, but I think a new Superman show is where we can see Lois shine again. She's one of the strongest, best characters in all of DC Comics and I still think she'll get her due soon enough. This year's annual Arrowverse crossover <i>Elseworlds </i>will include Lane in a sizable role. I'm hoping that she and Clark will headline a new series. Lois definitely deserves more time in the spotlight as a hero and I'm hoping to see her on the small screen sooner rather than later. </div>
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<b>LESS HUMAN THREATS </b></div>
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I think I speak for all Superman fans when I say it's very irritating that Lex Luthor is constantly the go-to for Superman bad guys. For me it was refreshing watching season one of <i>Supergirl </i>and Lex was nowhere to be seen. I don't even think he was mentioned (but I could be wrong). If a Superman show were to be greenlit I'd love see Lex Luthor as far away as possible at least for a few seasons. I'll be the first to admit that I love Lex Luthor and he's an amazing character but I think it's better to treat him like the Joker in the <i>Dark Knight </i>trilogy. The first film, <i>Batman Begins</i>, didn't need the Joker to make it a compelling film. He was saved for the sequel and it was worth the wait. I think that should be how Lex is treated. Like I've said previously, there are so many Superman concepts that haven't been used in the films or TV shows so holding off on Lex would be a smart move. Plus, let's see more alien or super-powered threats that could go toe to toe with Superman physically as well as mentally. Speaking of . . . </div>
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<b>MAGOG / GOG</b></div>
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One of the oldest and best tropes used in Superman storytelling is the idea of "Is Superman a god?". During <i>Kingdom Come </i>and the psuedo-sequel in <i>Justice Society of America's Thy Kingdom Come </i>the characters of Magog and Gog challenge the very notion of Superman and the other superheroes. In <i>Kingdom Come, </i>Magog kills the Joker and the public sides with him causing Superman to question his role in society. In <i>Thy Kingdom Come, </i>Gog shows up and starts solving all the problems in the world and demands to be worshipped. The Justice Society refuses and Gog flips his shit and starts killing off people. I think that story has potential to be really captivating in today's society where it seems like faith and religion are used as excuses to do terrible things. Those types of stories like God vs the Devil are always fascinating to me and I love seeing Superman as a supposed god figure that he tries to refute. Christ imagery is constantly used in Superman stories but it's never tackled head on. <i>Supergirl </i>tackled this type of story during season three in an exceptional episode but I think a season long arc seeing Clark struggle with this idea of the public treating him like God would be excellent television. </div>
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Granted a Superman series is unfortunately a long shot at this point but I gotta say that Kal El, Lois Lane, and all the Daily Planet staff are ripe for television. Plus there's the recent "legacy" casting that happens with these shows nowadays and I think Brandon Routh, Dean Cain, and Tom Welling would be amazing guest stars. Superman adventures have always made for great television shows so why stop now? Plus Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch would be great as this generation's Clark and Lois! So what are we waiting for CW? Let's make this happen! </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-59803729874769210282018-10-17T07:45:00.001-07:002018-10-17T07:45:08.345-07:00UPCOMING DC SHOWS TO GET EXCITED ABOUT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's a really exciting time to be a DC fan. Two years ago DC did a whole <em>Rebirth </em>thing (you might have heard about it) and every comic got a much needed shot in the arm. I was enjoying a lot of the New 52 run but I'm glad that the comics got back on track. After the success of <em>Rebirth, </em>DC has gone all in on their branding in the same way that Marvel has and honestly, I think that's awesome. I've been a DC fan my whole life. You probably guessed that since most of my posts are DC posts. And I'll admit that the films that have been put out recently haven't been . . . shall we say the best DC can offer. Honestly, I've enjoyed all the films I've seen (yes even <em>Green Lantern</em>). <br />
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While the films may not always hit the mark it's safe to say the TV shows have been absolutely mind blowing. For me, it started with <em>Smallville </em>17 years ago (holy shit I'm old) and has continued with <em>Arrow, The Flash, Gotham, Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl, Black Lightning, </em>and so on and so forth. Even the shows I'm not watching like <em>Preacher </em>and <em>Lucifer </em>I still get excited about because I go to Comic Cons and see fans cosplaying as those characters and that makes me happy. <br />
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With the launch of DC Universe, DC has taken it upon themselves to produce their own content free from any corporate mandate. They're getting to tell the stories that they're excited about and that's awesome. At the time of this writing, <em>Titans </em>has had it's first episode. While the trailer might have turned people off, I'd encourage them to give it another shot. I loved it and I'm excited to watch these characters grow over the next several episodes. BUT THAT'S NOT ALL! Between the exclusive content on DC Universe to a few upcoming shows on other networks, DC is primed to continue knocking everyone's socks off! Here are the shows I'm most excited about:<br />
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<strong><em>WATCHMEN</em></strong></div>
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This has the potential to be one of the most interesting and ground breaking shows ever. Just like the <em>Watchmen </em>graphic novel was so groundbreaking for it's time, the show should be the same way. As I'm sure you know, the graphic novel was a deconstruction of the superhero genre. Given that so many comics have been adapted to television and film in the past 15 years, some more than once, <em>Watchmen </em>is in a position to comment on all of it and transcend the genre. With an amazing cast assembled including Regina Hall and Jeremy Irons plus Damon Lindelof as writer/producer, I have a feeling we're going to see something special. Hell, I'm even considering signing up for HBO just to check it out! </div>
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<strong><em>PENNYWORTH</em></strong></div>
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Ok, ok, ok. Hear me out! This show kind of sounds ridiculous. I mean, why does it even have to exist in the first place? Are any of us really excited about seeing the origin story of Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne's faithful butler? Well, EPIX got excited enough to greenlight the damn thing so somebody is doing something right! </div>
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Seriously though, after reading Scott Snyder's run on <em>All Star Batman, </em>specifically the arc titled "The First Ally", I actually have some hope that this show will be really cool. As long as they keep the Bat-references and easter eggs to a minimum. I mean, Thomas Wayne is supposed to be the co-star and that's all well and good, but I'm not interested in seeing Alfred take on any Bat-rogues. I'm interested to see his origins as a bad ass British special forces guy with medical training and fighting styles that make us say, "Oh shit! That's where Batman gets it from!" I think that's the route they are going to go and with the producers of <em>Gotham </em>behind the camera, I think we're in good hands. </div>
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<strong><em>DOOM PATROL</em></strong></div>
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I'll be the first to admit that I was not excited about this show. I mean, it's cool that DC is able to produce it's own content but <em>Doom Patrol? </em>Seriously? I didn't give it much thought. I figured I would watch it anyway because Geoff Johns (my man) kept talking about how excited he was for it. And to be fair I wasn't a big Green Arrow fan before <em>Smallville </em>and of course <em>Arrow. </em>So maybe it would be cool. </div>
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While I was at New York Comic Con earlier this month, I went to the DC Universe panel. Geoff Johns (my man) was there talking about the show and how it's based on Grant Morrison's run from the 80's. He said those comics still hold up and recommended we all check them out. Well, since Johns is practically a walking DC encyclopedia I figured I'd give it a shot. Well, I bought the first volume and read it while waiting in line the next day. I couldn't put it down! It was so exciting and fun and the characters, especially Robotman, hit a chord with me. When I finished that volume I immediately bought the second volume and devoured it. If the show is anything like the comic, which Johns says it is, then we are all in for a real treat! Plus with a great cast including Brendan Fraser, Timothy Dalton, and Matthew Bomer, we're in for some powerhouse performances! </div>
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<strong><em>HARLEY QUINN</em></strong></div>
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At New York Comic Con, I was lucky enough to attend the <em>Titans </em>premiere. Before they showed the first two episodes (yay!) they gave us a sneak peak at <em>Harley Quinn. </em>Even freaking Kaley Cuoco came out to announce it! It was pretty exciting! The clip we saw is online now and it's really funny. Sam Humphries, current writer of the <em>Harley Quinn </em>comic book, says that he thinks of Harley as Bugs Bunny. She can go anywhere or do anything in her stories. She interacts with everyone the same way and is just a lot of fun to watch get into crazy adventures. With that in mind, Harley is perfect for a wacky animated series, especially a mature themed series. Plus the cast sounds awesome with Cuoco as Quinn, Christopher Meloni as Commissioner Gordon, Diedrich Bader as Batman, and Lake Bell as Poison Ivy! It sounds like a lot of fun and I can't wait to see what sort of hijinks Harley takes us on!</div>
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<strong><em>STARGIRL</em></strong></div>
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The first comic that Geoff Johns (my man) wrote at DC was <em>Stars and Stripe </em>where he created the character Stargirl. He based her off of his late sister. I read the first volume of that comic and you can feel the passion and love he had for this character right off the bat. The show sounds like a great legacy series, which Johns excels at. Courtney, Stargirl, finds her stepdad's old superhero uniform and decides to have some fun with it. Along the way she learns about the Justice Society of America and all the heroes that were apart of that generation. I'm so excited to see characters from the JSA on a TV show! Granted we've seen some of them guest star on <em>Smallville, the Flash, </em>and <em>Legends of Tomorrow </em>but seeing them get the spotlight in a new TV show? That's just too awesome to pass up! Plus Johns has promised a lighter tone for the series to balance out the darker <em>Titans </em>and <em>Doom Patrol. </em>It's refreshing to hear that DC is willing to put all kinds of content on their streaming service so that fans can get a variety of content. And <em>Stargirl </em>just sounds like so much fun! </div>
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<strong><em>BATWOMAN</em></strong></div>
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I've already written about what I think would make for a great <em>Batwoman </em>series. The truth is that I'm not too worried about it. With Greg Berlanti and the awesome producers at the CW at the helm, I have no doubt <em>Batwoman </em>will be an excellent series. The recent costume reveal, pictured above, only solidified what I was thinking - Kate Kane and Gotham City are in excellent hands! I'm looking forward to seeing her debut in the annual DC CW crossover this year. I read the first volume of her solo series by Greg Rucka and, if the series is anything like that, it will be epic and exciting! Plus the CW has a knack for making us fall in love with people behind the masks. What more can a fan want? </div>
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Like I said, it's an amazing time to be a DC Comics fan. From the upcoming <em>Aquaman </em>and <em>Shazam </em>films to all the shows I've mentioned plus the returning shows like <em>Young Justice </em>we've got so much to look forward to! I say keep it coming! And if anyone at DC is reading this - please review my suggestions for what to add to your streaming service. I'm only an e-mail away! :)</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-20801132366955768652018-09-17T16:40:00.002-07:002018-09-17T16:40:15.370-07:006 REASONS LOIS LANE SHOULD STAR IN HER OWN SHOW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With the DC Universe service having just launched this weekend and news of Lois Lane being cast in <i>Supergirl </i>(to be played by Elizabeth Tulloch), I thought it would be a good idea to revisit the <i>Metropolis </i>series that was ordered and then put on hold. The show was first described as Lois Lane and Lex Luthor investing bizarre situations on the fringe of science. Or . . . something like that. Whatever that means. ANYWAY! I personally think the show could be interesting and exciting. It just needs to be about Lois Lane. Lex and other Superman supporting characters will have their roles to play of course, but Lois should be the star. Let's dig into why she would be a perfect protagonist.<br />
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<b>SECOND FIDDLE TO SUPERMAN</b></div>
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Throughout her lifetime in comics, movies, TV, etc, Lois has always been second fiddle to Superman. There have been plenty of stories about Clark Kent and Superman without Lois as a supporting character but to my knowledge there haven't been many stories about Lois Lane without Superman. A show all about her rise to prominence in the journalism world is unexplored territory. Lois is a strong enough character to hold her own series without needing a lot of winks and nods to Superman or even Clark Kent as a supporting character. She doesn't need Superman to make her an interesting character. All she needs is a passion for finding out the truth and the guts to go after it at all costs. She don't need no man looking out for her! </div>
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<b>SHE WAS ALREADY THE STAR</b></div>
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<i>Metropolis </i>was already going to be about Lois and Lex. Instead, I think the focus should be shifted away from Lex (but not completely, more on that later) and the spotlight given to Lois Lane. Having Lois be the sole star gives the writers and producers more room to give Lois a brand new supporting cast. A rival reporter, a boss, a plucky sidekick, all the tropes that these types of shows always have. <i>Lois and Clark </i>actually did a good job of having all of those things. <i>Metropolis </i>can be like that but without Clark Kent being introduced until maybe the last episode or two. Lois is qualified enough to run a series on her own. She was a reporter long before Clark showed up in Metropolis and had made a name for herself. I think that show would be interesting.</div>
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<b>A NEW ANGLE ON THE SUPERMAN STORY</b></div>
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<i>Smallville </i>told the story of Clark Kent growing up, <i>Lois and Clark </i>told the romance between those characters, <i>Krypton </i>is about Kal El's ancestors now I think it's time to tell a story without mention of Kal El, Krypton, or any of those elements. Keeping the story on Earth and human threats would be something we haven't seen in the Superman side of the DC Universe. Granted I still like the idea of Lois investigating the fringe science . . . stuff. But there's plenty of stories to tell with all kinds of weird experiments, other aliens, the multiverse, all that crazy DC stuff without even a mention of Krypton or the survivors. While that may sound like blasphemy, I like the idea of Lois's story being more Earth-bound and then when Superman arrives, that's when the Kryptonian elements come in. There's plenty of story to tell about Lois and the rest of the Daily Planet and the stories they uncover.</div>
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<b>FAMILY DRAMA</b></div>
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One type of story that is forever timeless is family drama. Whether it's a supportive family, a dysfunctional family, or somewhere in the middle, everyone can relate to some type of family. Lois's family, father General Sam Lane, mom Ella Lane, and sister Lucy, have been portrayed as either being on the outs with Lois or supportive or somewhere in between. It all depends on what the writers think is the best place to go. Personally, I've always liked the family being supportive but Sam has secrets with his military units. It's another type of story that recent comic book series have done well which is the loving parent or parent-figure with secrets that could hurt the hero. <i>Arrow </i>and <i>The Flash </i>had those going into their first seasons with great success. I think that's the way <i>Metropolis </i>should go with Lois and her father. That type of story will give them a lot of mileage especially in a first season. But there's always a different type of antagonist . . . </div>
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<b>LEX LUTHOR</b></div>
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While I think <i>Metropolis </i>will be just fine without Superman, I don't think it would do so well without Lex Luthor. Not because he's a recognizable face or foe, but because he's always boasted about being the one who built and reshaped Metropolis. It would be interesting if the series showed us Lex's empire growing in Metropolis. Of course, he would come into conflict with Lois and the Daily Planet. Granted, maybe it's too easy to make Lex the antagonist yet again for Metropolis and it's residents but given a certain commander-in-chief's penchant for calling the media "fake news" it's not out of the realm of possibilities for people to fall under Lex's charm and believe whatever he tells them over the facts presented by the journalists at the Daily Planet. Lois is all about discovering the truth no matter what the cost and Lex would do anything to protect his empire. Maybe that would hit close to home, but as I've said before comic books and sci fi always have a way of being topical without beating the audience over the head with morality or politics. </div>
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<b>ROLE MODEL</b></div>
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As I've said, Lois is all about reporting the truth. In today's world with the term "fake news" being shouted at every turn, the truth seems to be relative. It's important that people, especially young women, see that the truth is not relative. Truth is truth. There's no such thing as alternative facts. The truth speaks for itself and the people who are afraid of the truth are probably guilty. Lois Lane has always been a journalist first. Her devotion is to the truth and making sure that the public knows what is real and what is not. She's a role model that our world desperately needs right now. Someone willing to dig for the truth no matter the consequences. For decades she's played second fiddle to Superman but she's a hero without super powers. She's just damn good at her job. But to her it's not just a job, it's her life.<br />
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So far, I'm loving DC Universe. It's full of classic and even some contemporary DC content that a fan like me can spend hours and hours gobbling up. I'm most looking forward to the new TV series they have to offer. I'm hoping <i>Metropolis </i>gets off the back burner and becomes something special to inspire us all the way Superman does. Excuse me . . . I mean the way Lois Lane WILL.<br />
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Till Next Time!<br />
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-26247836344120223662018-09-15T08:37:00.002-07:002018-09-15T08:37:17.998-07:008 WAYS TO CELEBRATE BATMAN DAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is DC's annual Batman Day! Your local comic book store and probably a few other geek-ish stores will be having various Bat-related sales and such. Also, www.readdc.com is having a sale on digital Bat-comics for your enjoyment. But what other ways can you celebrate? Well . . . I have a few suggestions . . .<br />
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<b>LISTEN TO AND DANCE TO THE BATMAN THEME</b></div>
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You all know it! It's one of the most iconic and well known songs of all time. Even if you've never seen a minute of the original TV series you know how this song goes. NA NA NA NA NA BATMAN! It's perfect and fun to (kind of) dance to. Legend has it that if you say Batman three times in the mirror, Adam West appears and does the Batusi with you. </div>
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<b>FIGHT FOR JUSTICE</b></div>
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I'm not saying put on a costume and fight crime. I mean you can but without years of rigorous training you might get your ass kicked. I mean stand up to a bully, donate to charity, compliment someone, I don't know dude! Do something good in the world! What have you done lately? Probably nothing but complain about how tired you are! Do something good for crying out loud! Batman can't do this alone! </div>
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<b>READ YOUR FAVORITE BAT-COMIC</b></div>
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What if you don't have one? Well, take advantage of DC's sale on their website or get off your butt and visit your local comic book store and find one! I highly recommend a few classics such as <i>Batman: Hush, The Dark Knight Returns, The Court of Owls, The Killing Joke, Death of the Family, </i>or whatever you consider to be your favorite! There's 79 years of comics to choose from. Choose wisely . . . </div>
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<b>WATCH YOUR FAVORITE BAT-MOVIE</b></div>
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I mean if you don't feel like getting off your ass then pick one or two (or more . . . whatever) of your favorite Bat-movies, heat up some popcorn, grab a soda or a beer and sit back and relax! There's the excellent animated films to choose from or the varying degrees of quality live action films. Wanna laugh? <i>Batman and Robin! </i>Wanna cry? <i>Batman: Mask of the Phantasm! </i>Wanna cheer? <i>Batman Begins! </i>Dealer's choice, man! Go for it! </div>
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<b>BUILD WITH SOME BAT-LEGOS</b></div>
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I don't care how old you are - Batman Legos are fun and awesome. Go to your local toy store, not Toys R Us of course (too soon?), and pick up some bad ass legos and have fun! If you think they're too pricey then pull out your Bat credit card and pay it off later! "Never leave the cave without it!" </div>
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<b>WEAR YOUR FAVORITE BAT-SHIRT</b></div>
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This one was obvious right? If you're like me, you have a whole drawer literally overflowing with various Bat-shirts. I've walked into stores wearing a Batman shirt and bought a different Batman shirt. Because I'm a devoted Bat-fan and I'm not ashamed of that! (anymore)</div>
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<b>MARATHON YOUR FAVORITE BAT-EPISODES</b></div>
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Batman has been in so many various animated series throughout the decades it's hard to keep track! There's the <i>Adventures of Batman </i>from the 1970s, <i>Batman: the Animated Series, Batman Beyond, The Batman, Beward the Batman, Justice League, Justice League Action, Batman Unlimited, Batman: the Brave and the Bold, Superfriends, </i>I mean the list goes on! It's crazy! Fun fact about me - that aforementioned <i>Adventures of Batman </i>was one I discovered at Blockbuster when I was a kid and watched the hell out of so many times. When the DVDs FINALLY released a few years ago I gobbled those up. It's so much fun to watch. Hopefully, DC Universe will add it to their collection. OH! And speaking of which . . . </div>
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<b>DOWNLOAD DC UNIVERSE</b></div>
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Oh it's so cool! So much of what I mentioned is already on this thing! From classic Batman movies, to the wonderful animated series, to great comic books, this streaming service is so incredible. It's the kind of thing I never knew how much I wanted. And yeah yeah yeah I already own all these things but with so many upcoming new series and more content it's worth it. I'm sure over the next few months we'll see their catalog get bigger and better. But for now, there's plenty to enjoy. And for just $7.99 a month it's a pretty sweet deal! </div>
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Well . . . what are you waiting for? Get out their and enjoy the Bat-Day!</div>
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Till Next Time! </div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-78403445770269872312018-08-30T15:24:00.002-07:002018-08-30T15:24:07.610-07:00WHAT IS IN YOUR DC UNIVERSE?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last night, DC Universe streamed their first episode of DC Daily, or rather an episode 0 if you will, talking about the awesome stuff that the new streaming service is going to offer. Honestly, it was a lot of fun to watch. I felt like I was spying on old friends as they gushed about all things DC Comics. The one question host Kevin Smith asked everybody was "What's in your universe?" Meaning what brought you into DC Comics in the first place? Well for me, the list is long. I started off as a Batman guy and then as the years went on more and more things took me out of just Gotham City and into the wider DC Universe. I'd like to share those things with you now.<br />
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<b><i>SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE</i></b></div>
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This film is probably on everybody's list and there's a good reason for that. It's a damn good movie. Sure some of the effects and stunts are severely outdated but the performance that Christopher Reeve gave as Clark Kent/Superman still holds up today. I remember my mom taking me to Blockbuster and I rented all the <i>Superman </i>movies one summer and watched them all. They were so much fun. Back then as far as Superman went I had <i>Lois and Clark</i>, which I loved, and <i>Superman: the Animated Series</i>, which I also loved. I remember my dad talking to me about it and saying he saw it when he was younger and liked Christopher Reeve a lot. I learned a lot about him and felt bad about his accident. He was a great actor and is definitely missed. But these films, especially the first one, hold in my memory as pillars of why I love Superman so much. </div>
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<b><i>BATMAN</i></b></div>
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I'll keep this brief because I've talked about this film ad nauseum on this blog. But more than anything else, this version of Batman is cemented in brain as definitive. The opening scene where Michael Keaton growls, "I'm Batman" is the moment I fell deeply in love with the character. I mean I was scared shitless, but it stayed with me forever. The costume, the subtle movements and dialogue from Batman, the Batmobile, the city, I mean this movie perfectly captured Batman's world to me. I rewatch this movie at least once a month and I never grow tired of it. </div>
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<b><i>BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES</i></b></div>
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Another one that's probably on everybody's list but again with good reason. This show is not only a landmark in pop culture and animation history, but it's really, really good. If you go back and rewatch the series, as I do quite often, the stories hold up. <i>Batman </i>is set in a timeless world. It could be the 1940s, it could be the present, it could be the future, it's never directly stated. Even it had been the stories are still amazing. Visually they are stunning, the performances are top notch, and the stories range from mature to more family friendly and it never feels out of place. The show defied what traditional "cartoon superheroes" looked like and just about every animated action series since then has taken a cue from it. Plus it gave us Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill as Batman and the Joker. I mean . . . that alone makes it great. </div>
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<b><i>BATMAN BEYOND</i></b></div>
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When I was a kid my sisters and I were already big Batman fans but this show kind of brought us together. We've always been close but it was kind of a ritual watching <i>Batman Beyond </i>together. I remember we were all sucked in with the first episode and would stop everything to watch it when it was on. To me, the show was a logical continuation from <i>Batman: the Animated Series </i>and <i>The New Batman Adventures</i>. Visually the show was different than the other shows but felt the same style. Plus there was emphasis on building Terry up as a great character and not just Batman Junior which I always appreciated. Plus, again, the show holds up. The stories are exciting, mature, and damn good fun. Hopefully my dream will come true of seeing this in live action some day. </div>
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<b><i>SMALLVILLE</i></b></div>
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If you've read this blog before then you know my love of <i>Smallville</i>. I mean heck, when I got Hulu I started rewatching the series despite owning all the DVDs. That's . . . that's me. Big ole geek man . . . ANYWAY! This show means a lot to me and my evolution into a super geek you all know and love. I remember hearing about this show being made and I thought it sounded like such a cool idea. I mean back then there weren't a lot of outlets for live action superhero stuff. <i>Smallville </i>was the closest thing I got to a Superman TV show and I was not disappointed. I didn't mind the slow burn into him putting on the costume because I felt like the show was maturing along with me. I was about the same age as Clark when the show premiered and could relate to being in love, growing up, and feeling like an outsider. Granted, I'm not an alien from another planet but the show's metaphor held up well and I could enjoy it. Plus the show laid the foundation for the Arrowverse and each of those shows holds a special place in my heart. Man, just writing this makes me want to watch the show again . . . </div>
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<b>GEOFF JOHNS'S RUN ON <i>GREEN LANTERN</i></b></div>
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This comic series meant the world to me as a growing geek. I'll never forget seeing ads for <i>Green Lantern: Rebirth </i>in other comics and thinking, "That looks cool!" It was the image of Hal as the Spectre holding his lantern. At the time, I only knew a little about Green Lantern from the <i>Justice League </i>animated series but for some reason those ads called out to me. And clearly I wasn't the only one. The first issue was sold out when I got to the comic book store! I had to wait till they had a THIRD PRINTING to get a copy. I was not disappointed. It was worth the wait and I became a lifelong Green Lantern fan. The series followed me to my move to North Carolina where, when I was struggling to make friends in a new city, there were new issues every month that I could get excited about. The series never failed to put a smile on my face even when Geoff Johns left. Getting to meet him at New York Comic Con was a highlight for me. It was like meeting a rock star. That comic got me into <i>Infinite Crisis, Teen Titans, </i>and many more comics as the years went on. But my real expansion into the DC Universe came from this. </div>
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<b><i>BATMAN: HUSH</i></b></div>
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Most Bat-fans will tell you their gateway Bat-comic was <i>The Dark Knight Returns </i>or <i>Batman: Year One </i>or something like that. While I definitely read those and loved them, <i>Batman: Hush</i> was the one that truly got me into monthly comics starting with Batman. I remember my sister coming over and telling me there was this comic coming out that sounded cool and I should check it out. I ended up picking up the first issue and falling head over heels in love with it. It's one I revisit frequently. It felt like I was watching a new Batman film I had never heard of before. It flowed so well and started my love affair with the Bruce/Selina relationship. The story was so exciting and fun. From fights with Superman, Killer Croc, Poison Ivy, and so many other Bat-rogues it set the stage for so many other stories like Jeph Loeb's <i>Superman/Batman, Batman: Under the Hood, </i>and even <i>Infinite Crisis</i>. So while <i>Green Lantern </i>took me across the universe, <i>Hush </i>started me off in Gotham City where I was familiar. It's one comic I always recommend to friends looking for great Bat-stories. </div>
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What's in my Universe? Well that's quite a loaded question. I could go on and on and about individual episodes, comics, and film scenes that turned me into the proud geek I am today. These are the things I grew up with that inspired me to make this blog in the first place. I'm so excited that most of these things will be available on DC Universe. I've preordered my subscription and I'm counting down the days till I can go nuts watching all my favorites plus a bunch of new things to whet my appetite even more!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-85046607574996373642018-08-23T12:24:00.002-07:002018-08-23T12:24:19.852-07:0010 BEST SUPERHERO MOMS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is a bit of a rough day for me. My mom passed away this past Christmas. Today is her birthday and it's the first birthday we'll have without her. Rather than wallow in pity or grieve her loss again, I decided to put some thoughts down into this blog. She always encouraged my writing and acting. Well, since I can't act out this type of thing (I don't even know what that means), instead I'll write a cool little tribute to her. <br />
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My mom was a big geek. My favorite memory of her is her taking me to see <em>The Mask of Zorro</em>. I thought the movie looked really cool but for my mom, she grew up loving the old <em>Zorro </em>TV show. To her, this was a huge deal. It was her childhood hero she could share with me. She was literally cheering and jumping up and down in her seat. At 11 years old, at the time I was super embarrassed, but looking back I realize how much I'm like her. I mean I was cheering during <em>Batman Begins </em>and <em>The Avengers</em>. Who am I to talk? (Sorry, mom haha) <br />
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This got me thinking that throughout comics, our favorite heroes have been inspired by their moms to not just be good people but to be heroes in the first place. In some cases, motherhood wasn't an option but the characters stepped up to take on the hardest job in the world. I'd like to share my thoughts on some of comic book's best moms.<br />
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<strong>LARA EL - <em>MAN OF STEEL</em></strong></div>
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Let's put aside any thoughts you might have on <em>Man of Steel </em>for a moment and instead focus on Lara. Lara was given a little bit more of a spotlight than she normally does in Superman adaptations. Usually, the stories focus more on the relationship between father and son, Jor El and Kal El, but this time Lara had a little bit more to do in that she is literally the one that sends Kal El to Earth. She agrees with Jor El that the system Krypton has in place is broken and they conceive their child naturally. Lara is a great mom because she's willing to not only have a child that will have free will to be whatever he wants, she's willing to save his life by sending him to a planet where he will be able to protect himself. Lara never gets much to do, but it says a lot that every story ends with her willing to sacrifice herself to save her only son.</div>
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<strong>AMANDA ARMSTRONG - INTERNATIONAL/INVINCIBLE IRON MAN</strong></div>
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Here's one you may not have heard of. In the recent Marvel comics as written by Brian Michael Bendis, before he moved to DC, Tony Stark discovered that he was adopted and took it upon himself to find his real parents. Turns out his mother was a former S.H.I.E.L.D. agent/musician, now music producer living in London. His father was a Hydra agent trying to convince his mother, Amanda, to switch sides to Hydra and they would protect her and the baby. She wanted to keep the baby safe from Hydra so Howard Stark agreed to adopt the baby. Years later, Tony found her and they reunited. Then, as these things go, Tony fell into a coma at the end of Civil War II and Amanda took over Stark Industries. </div>
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It takes a brave woman to admit that she can't keep her child safe and is willing to let him go. Then to have him find her, she wants nothing more than to be a part of his life. In Dan Slott's new series <em>Tony Stark: Iron Man, </em>she remains a big part of the comic, supporting Tony with everything he does. Just like a loving mother should. <br />
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<strong>AUNT MAY - <em>ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN</em></strong></div>
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Those who know me know that more than any other comic <em>Ultimate Spider-Man </em>was my jam for many many years. More than any other Spider-Man story I wasn't just excited to read the fight scenes and the new interpretations of Spidey's rogues, but I loved the drama and the fun of the high school setting. Also, I found myself genuinely tearing up many times whenever Peter would interact with Aunt May. May is a character that is extremely integral to Spider-Man's adventures. In the Ultimate Comics she was portrayed as slightly younger than in the regular Marvel books. This was to "update" her I guess. Either way, more than I had ever seen, she was a fully fleshed out character. She had hopes, dreams, fears, all made that much more dramatic and scary when she found out her nephew was Spider-Man. She didn't take it well at first, but then after a long talk with Peter she saw him for the hero that he is and embraced her new relationship. </div>
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There's a scene where May has had a heart attack and is lying in the hospital and Peter pours his heart out to her saying that she's his mom and he thinks of himself as her son. She wakes up and hugs him and says, "My boy." I'm tearing up just writing that up. Their relationship was just about perfect. </div>
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<strong>JESSICA JONES - <em>NEW AVENGERS</em></strong></div>
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Hey, another Bendis one! I guess I kinda liked that guy's Marvel stuff! Now most of you probably know Jessica Jones best from her self titled Netflix series. While that is a great show and Krysten Ritter absolutely nails it, the Jessica I first met was from the <em>New Avengers </em>comic book where she was on the run from the government for failing to register with the Superhuman Registration Act with her husband, Luke Cage, and their newborn baby. You might be thinking, "Jessica Jones? The hard ass detective with the chimp on her shoulder and a drink constantly in her hand?" And I'd say, "Yepp!" She may not seem like the maternal type but trust me when I say she stepped up to take care of her baby when needed.</div>
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She's a great mom because despite having a less than ideal life, at least for a while, with her husband and other Avengers friends on the run, she stood up for what she believed in and wanted to make that clear to her child. She wants to be a role model for her child. A hero not just because she has superpowers but because she stands up for what she believes is right. A damn good role model if you ask me. </div>
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<strong>LOIS LANE - SUPERMAN REBIRTH</strong></div>
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Lois Lane is another character that I definitely wouldn't have thought of as maternal. However, given that she married the world's biggest softie, Clark Kent, it was expected that they would have a child. Not just any child but another Superboy, Jon Kent. Raising a child with superpowers is essentially like having a special needs child. It's a lot more complicated than just having a normal son. This one comes with special requirements and a much more caring hand as he grows up with powers and abilities that will take time, patience, and endurance to control and embrace. It'll take a strong woman to be able to deal with that kind of workload on top of being the world's leading investigative journalist. Luckily, she has an ever dependable partner with Clark/Superman. But Lois has proved time and time again that she's more than capable of tackling any challenge. She's a great mom because she never gives up on the people she loves. </div>
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<strong>SUE STORM - FANTASTIC FOUR</strong></div>
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I think this one speaks for itself. The Fantastic Four are commonly referred to as "Marvel's First Family." More than other characters in the Marvel Universe they are defined by their relationship to each other. While I've read comics with the characters spread out among other groups, it's never quite the same. The Fantastic Four are at their best when they're with each other. And Reed and Sue have never shined brighter than when they became parents. Reed was already a nerdy dad to begin with and Sue always seemed like a woman ready to raise kids to be heroes/explorers like herself. </div>
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Sue is amazing because she puts the ones she loves above everything else. She is protective of her children but isn't afraid to let them have their own adventures because she knows they can take care of themselves. She's a hero to the Marvel Universe and one of the greatest moms a kid could hope to have. </div>
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<strong>SARAH ROGERS - CAPTAIN AMERICA</strong></div>
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Most of the best heroes we look up are forged in tragedy. For Captain America/Steve Rogers, he had to watch his loving mother suffer at the hands of an alcoholic and abusive husband. Back then, if you recall, Steve wasn't the Cap we all know and love. Back then he was a scrawny, shrimp of a man, even smaller as a boy. He watched helplessly as his mom would be smacked around by a terrible man. She reminded him that he should never back down from a bully. She says, "You always stand up." Those words stayed with Steve his entire life and informed his mantra when he became Captain America. Sarah is Steve's hero and he is the man he is today because of her. </div>
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<strong>LESLIE THOMPKINS - <em>BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES</em></strong></div>
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It's crazy to think that <em>Batman: the Animated Series </em>was made for children because there were plenty of very mature stories that were told throughout it's run. Early in the show, it's established that after Bruce's parents were murdered, he was looked after by his father's close friend, Leslie Thompkins. Leslie was also a doctor and acted a bit as Bruce's personal therapist when he was younger. In his older years as a crime fighter she works as his personal M.D., tending to his wounds when he's near her clinic. She's not afraid to look at him and tell him that what he's doing is dangerous, but she never turns down a patient in need. She's a constant, caring figure in Bruce's life. She treats him like her own son. She loves him and wishes he would give up his violent life but she still cares for him. </div>
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<strong>NORA ALLEN - <em>FLASHPOINT</em></strong></div>
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When it comes to all time hero moms - Nora Allen might just take the cake. She was Barry's hero as a kid due to her seemingly unending wealth of wisdom and love. But then Eobard Thawne, a crazed scientist from the 25th century who became obsessed with the Flash, went back in time and murdered Nora for no other reason than to piss Barry off. Barry had finally had enough and went back in time to stop the Reverse Flash. Technically speaking, Barry succeeded in saving his mother. Unfortunately, he messed up everyone else's life and created an alternate, nightmare timeline where Atlantis and Themyscira are at war and have decimated half the planet, Bruce Wayne is dead and Thomas Wayne is a murderous Batman, Kal El has been captured by the government and experimented on his whole life, and Barry is not the Flash. </div>
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When Barry finally gets his powers back and realizes the hell he's created he tries to think of a way to fix everything including saving his mom. Barry confides in her and she says, "You have to let me go." It's a heartbreaking moment but Nora is a brave woman. She's willing to die to save billions of lives and inspire a hero in the Flash. Lucky for Barry, he was able to keep the memories of his life with her when everything was put right so he'll always have her close to his heart. </div>
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<strong>MARTHA KENT - <em>SMALLVILLE</em></strong></div>
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Superman is who he is because of his parents. Two humble farmers that were blessed with a child from the heavens that would one day grow up to be Earth's greatest savior. But when you're raising a young man with powers that he can barely control on top of the usual hormones and growing pains, the job is a lot harder. Martha was more than up to the task. The moment she laid eyes on Kal El she fell in love with him. She said that "he found us." Throughout all of Clark's trials and tribulations as a teenager into young adult she was standing behind him, encouraging him. She's a great mom because she was patient, loving, kind, and Clark's biggest fan. The love that she had for her son was stronger than anything else in the world and she proved that on a regular basis throughout the series. </div>
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My mom always encouraged my geekiness. We actually used to watch <em>Smallville </em>together and she seemed to be more excited about it than I was on certain nights. I know she's out there somewhere looking out for me. Thanks for taking the time to read this, Comic Junkies. Y'all are the best.</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-28857752549485945632018-08-06T12:39:00.002-07:002018-08-06T12:39:32.668-07:00PERFECTLY BALANCED - AN INFINITY WAR OBSERVATION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Marvel Studios released a little film called <i>Avengers: Infinity War </i>(you may have heard of it). It was the culmination of 10 years worth of build up into the most ambitious crossover film ever produced. Lucky for them, and REALLY lucky for us, it was super bad ass. The film has been deconstructed and pulled apart since its release and likely will continue to be until at least <i>Avengers 4 </i>comes out next year.<br />
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Usually I'm good at picking up on Easter Eggs and other nods to the comic books, TV shows, etc. However, there's one theme in the film I picked up on that I haven't seen anyone talk about yet. All throughout the film, Thanos goes on and on about how the universe needs to be perfectly balanced in order to survive. It's his mantra for whatever reason. But the theme of being perfectly balanced extends to more than just Thanos's mission. Stay with me here:<br />
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There are six Infinity Stones. Throughout the film six characters are given the option to either kill to protect a stone or to save a life and sacrifice the stone to Thanos. The only stone exempt from this is the Power Stone because Thanos has it at the beginning of the film. But still six for six. Here we go:<br />
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<b>LOKI - THE TESSERACT/SPACE STONE - SAVES THOR</b></div>
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The film's jarring opening sequence starts with Thanos and his homies decimating what's left of the already small band of surviving Asgardians following the ending of <i>Thor: Ragnarok</i>. In an unsurprising turn of events, we learn that Loki stole the Tesseract from Asgard before it was destroyed. Thanos says he'll kill Thor if Loki doesn't give it up. Loki says, "Eh kill him." Then he follows up with, "Jk lol." Thanos takes the Tesseract and kills Loki in the process. Bummer.</div>
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<b>STAR LORD - THE REALITY STONE - ATTEMPTS TO KILL GAMORA</b></div>
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Honestly, this one surprised me a lot but made me love Peter Quill more in this franchise. The Guardians go to Knowhere to try and take the Reality Stone before Thanos can get his hands on it. On the way there, Gamora tells Quill that she knows something Thanos doesn't know and if she's captured he needs to kill her. Quill reluctantly agrees. While on Knowhere, Gamora is captured by Thanos and she begs Quill to keep his promise. After a long mental debate (expertly acted by Chris Pratt) and sarcastic coaxing by Thanos, Quill does pull the trigger. However, since he waited like 2 years to do it, Thanos turned his bullets and gun into bubbles. Still . . . Quill knew the cost and he was willing to pay it to protect the universe. Until later that is when he fucked it all up . . . </div>
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<b>GAMORA - THE SOUL STONE - SAVES NEBULA FROM TORTURE</b></div>
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While captured by her foster daddy Thanos, Gamora goes on and on about how she doesn't know where the Soul Stone is. But ya know, Thanos ain't no pushover. He knows what's up. He shows her that he's kidnapped Nebula and is torturing her. He shows her Nebula's memory banks and Gamora's confession that she knows where the Soul Stone is but she'll never tell Thanos. Which brings me to my previous point that Nebula is useless and ruins everything. I know I haven't mentioned here before but I've mentioned it in my personal life enough that it's probably gotten around to you at some point. In any event, Thanos uses the Power Stone to torture Nebula. Gamora can't take it and says she'll take Thanos to the Stone if he leaves Nebula alone. Personally, I think these characters are too forgiving of people that have tried to murder them in the past but . . . whatever. </div>
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<b>THANOS - THE SOUL STONE - WILLING TO KILL GAMORA</b></div>
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Whew . . . Father of the year right? Yikes! Gamora leads Thanos to Vormir where they meet the Red Skull (cuz why not). Skull tells them that he is the Guardian of the stone and to take it requires a sacrifice, "a soul for a soul." Gamora laughs thinking that Thanos doesn't love anything enough to sacrifice it to obtain the stone. Turns out, Thanos actually did love his "daughter" Gamora and is willing to give her soul so that he can save the universe. I mean . . . she just asked her boyfriend to kill her . . . Maybe she has a type? I dunno. Either way, he throws her over the edge like any good father would and gets his bangin ass Soul Stone. Which does . . . I don't know actually. Completes the set?</div>
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<b>DOCTOR STRANGE - THE TIME STONE - SAVES IRON MAN</b></div>
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While flying through outer space, Tony Stark (Iron Man, in case you didn't know) says he thinks that the best course of action is to take the fight to Thanos on his home turf. Strange reluctantly agrees and then adds that if it comes down to protecting the Time Stone, Stark, or Spider-Man he won't hesitate to let either of them die to keep the stone out of Thanos's hands. Stark agrees to this. Because . . . I would too? I dunno, these guys are mean to each other. Just be friends already! </div>
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Anyway, later in the film, Thanos comes back to Titan and faces off against Spider-Man, Iron Man, Star Lord, Dr. Strange, Drax, and Mantis. They are barely a match for him. Then Star Lord goes and fucks everything up. You know what happens. Anyway, Thanos takes a piece of Stark's armor and stabs him with it. Which I was convinced was the end of Iron Man. I was like, "There it is! His contract's up!" But Strange begged for Stark's life in exchange for the Time Stone. He hands it over to Thanos and Thanos true to his word leaves Stark alone and then travels to Earth to get the last stone. One could argue that Strange gave up the stone because out of the 14 million outcomes he saw it was the only way to stop him but I'd like to think that Strange's medical oath of "do no harm" stayed with him. But I guess we won't know till <i>Avengers 4 </i>comes out and makes fools out of all of us. </div>
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<b>SCARLET WITCH - THE MIND STONE - WILLING TO KILL VISION</b></div>
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In a tragic turn of events, Shuri is not able to save Vision's consciousness despite being kind of a smart ass to Banner about it (that's what you get for being cocky, kid). Vision pleads with Wanda to destroy the Mind Stone because it's the only way to stop Thanos from achieving his goal. Wanda recognizes that there is no other way and uses her power to push Thanos aside and destory the Mind Stone/Vision in the process. Like holy shit, that's some power. Thanos tells her that he understands her pain and then much to the surprise of surprisingly a lot of people (cuz I totally saw it coming), Thanos uses the Time Stone to reverse Vision's death (Yay!) and then kill him all over again to get the Mind Stone (Damn it!). </div>
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Then Thanos does the finger snap and wipes out all the Avengers that still have movies left on their contracts and leaves the ones behind we're about to say "Bye, Felicia!" to. In all seriousness though, it's a heart wrenching ending. Thanos is a dick and I hope he gets his in <i>Avengers 4. </i></div>
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Again, this observation is a little uneven due to Thanos already having the Power Stone at the start of the film but we chalk that up to the filmmakers wanting to get the film started as quickly as possible. A smart move considering that it would have been repetitive to show Thanos destroying everyone and everything. As much as I'd love to see John C. Reilly and Glenn Close from <i>Guardians of the Galaxy </i>again . . . well it wouldn't have been worth it. </div>
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In any event, we are three for three. Did the filmmakers intend for this? Maybe. Even if not, it's an awesome thing to think about and adds a new layer to an already fantastic film. What does this mean for <i>Avengers 4? </i>I dunno . . . But I'm willing to bet that Cap's line, "We don't trade lives" will come into play. We'll find out soon enough!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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<br />For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-58112600403091736622018-08-03T13:28:00.002-07:002018-08-03T13:28:07.960-07:0010 REASONS TO BE EXCITED FOR TITANS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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At San Diego Comic Con a couple weeks ago, the first available footage for <em>Titans </em>was shown to the world and the response was . . . divisive to say the least. Unfortunately, it seems all too common for a DC property these days. I'll be the first to admit that the initial footage took me off guard and I was surprised by the dark tone. I expected something more along the lines of <em>The Flash </em>or <em>Young Justice</em>. Instead, the show is skewing closer to the tone of <em>Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice </em>or the first season of <em>Arrow</em>. Is that a bad thing? No, of course not. It just means they're going a different direction than I anticipated. The more I thought about it and the more times I watched the trailer I grew to really like this dark, gritty take on the property and came up with some reasons I think we should all be excited for this new series. <br />
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<strong>THIS AIN'T NO <em>TEEN TITANS GO! </em></strong></div>
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Right off the bat the tone was set up as a darker setting then I think most of us were expecting. Granted, I didn't necessarily expect it to be a live action version of <em>Teen Titans Go </em>but I was expecting . . . well not THAT dark. I just have to say from my personal point of view that I don't care for <em>Teen Titans Go. </em>I know it has it's fans, and that's cool, but really it's meant to be a silly children's cartoon that can get kids into superheroes at a young age. I have no problem with that, in fact I welcome that thought process, but for me, I got into Batman through <em>Batman: the Animated Series </em>and Tim Burton's <em>Batman. Titans </em>seems to be taking a similar route with the dark, gritty storytelling. Maybe some parents won't want their kids watching such a violent, dark show but hey! I grew up watching violent stuff and my therapist says I'm doing just "fine". <br />
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<strong>NO BATMAN</strong></div>
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Yepp . . . we're gonna talk about it. The infamous line from the Comic Con trailer that seemed to either rally or piss off the fanbase. Robin violently dispatches a number of goons and grunts, "Fuck Batman." Well . . . I wasn't expecting that! The line really threw me for a loop until I realized that Dick Grayson and well, quite frankly all the Robins, have had SEVERAL "Fuck Batman" moments during their costumed careers. It just seems new to us because we've never heard those words before. We've heard, "I quit" "I'm done with you" "I'm going solo!" etc, etc. To me, the exclusion of Batman is a good thing for the series. It means we can watch Dick grow from pissed off at his father young man to his own man. I have no doubt we'll see his turn from Robin to Nightwing, probably in the first season. I'd love for somewhere down the line to have Dick finally come to terms with and forgive Batman for whatever falling out they may have. Even if it doesn't, the point of the show is to see Dick and his new friends come together as a family. That's going to be more important than anything else. </div>
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<strong>RAVEN'S COMING OF AGE</strong></div>
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In just about every iteration of <em>Teen Titans, </em>Raven has had to deal with her evil father, Trigon, coming to our reality to destroy it or enslave it or whatever. Lucky for her the other Titans are always there to back her up. It's looking like this version won't be any different. Raven actively seeks out Dick Grayson because he can help her fight off the literal demons she has haunting her. Granted, this story has been told, as I just said, in every version of <em>Teen Titans </em>but I'm confident with it being done in live action, there will be a new twist or wrinkle in the narrative. Raven is one of DC's best characters. Someone that is trying to define herself as a good person in spite of having a literal monster for a father. As I've stated numerous times, it's the type of coming of age story that people can subconsciously relate to but it's thinly (and not so thinly) veiled as a superhero epic.</div>
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<strong>GEOFF JOHNS / GREG BERLANTI</strong></div>
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Two names that are undeniably influential in the world of DC on TV, Geoff Johns (my man) and Greg Berlanti. Berlanti is the producer of every superhero show currently running on The CW and Geoff Johns is one of DC's best writers as well as producer of <em>The Flash </em>and other series. If anyone knows anything about how to craft an awesome DC TV show it's these guys. Their track record speaks for itself with all five DC CW shows getting multiple seasons plus <em>Gotham </em>getting to five seasons and now several highly anticipated DC Universe streaming shows in various stages of production. I know that the trailer was divisive to say the least but with these two behind the scenes I'm confident we're going to get another amazing DC show for the record books. Johns (my man) also wrote several issues of <em>Teen Titans </em>back in the early 2000s. It was a long and successful run that most people told him would be a failure when he pitched it. He sure as hell proved them wrong! Multiple threads from that series have shown up in various other media such as <em>Smallville, Young Justice, </em>and the animated <em>Justice League vs Teen Titans </em>film. Like I said, these guys know what they're doing.</div>
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<strong>ROOM TO GROW</strong></div>
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Dick Grayson's portrayal in the trailer was one of the things people were most upset with. Dick is the leader of the Titans. He's the one with the cool head under pressure. He's the big brother that everybody wants. Well, guess what? That story needs to be told later. We need to start with "How did he get that way?" I'm much more interested in seeing all of these heroes as raw, open wounds from whatever tragedy has come their way. It makes more sense to see them come together and learn from each other to become the family that we're all familiar with from the comic books. Otherwise, we're just telling stories of people that start off liking each other and fighting crime and demons and monsters with smiles on their faces. And that's not good story telling. Let's give them a chance to grow, to fall down, to stumble, to have major screw ups, and then ultimately stand back up and kick ass and be the heroes we all know and love. That's the show I want to watch.</div>
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<strong>SO MANY CHARACTERS TO ADD IN THE FUTURE</strong></div>
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They say in the comics that "Once a Titan, always a Titan." Well we're going to see the beginning of these awesome heroes on the small screen soon enough. And their numbers are sure to grow and change over time. We know that one episode will introduce the Doom Patrol, already scheduled to spin off in their own series, not to mention Jason Todd aka Robin II/Red Hood confirmed to make an appearance in season 1. Then there's rumors of Superboy and Lex Luthor appearing on the series possibly at the end of this season or the beginning of the next. And that's not to mention characters like Kid Flash, Aqualad, Wonder Girl, Ravager, Kid Devil, Cyborg, Tara, Bumblebee and the list could go on! I'm certain we'll see many of these characters before the first season is over. In my mind, it's not Teen Titans without a Wonder Girl or Kid Flash in the ranks. Only time will tell. Heck, I'm drooling just thinking about it! Then again . . . I also haven't eaten much today . . . Oh well! TITANS!</div>
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<strong>NIGHT IS DARKEST BEFORE DAWN</strong></div>
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As I mentioned before, I was quite surprised by the dark tone the show was going for. I was expecting a little more <em>Legends of Tomorrow </em>and less <em>Arrow </em>season 1 but hey . . . here we are! At first I was very put off by this. But the more I thought about it, and I've mentioned this before, it's not a bad thing. In fact, from a storytelling point of view, it's probably the best thing the show can do at this moment. The characters don't know each other, as far as we know. They're all struggling with their own inner demons, in Raven's case a literal demon, and that's putting them all in a dark place. It's going to take all of them together to make it out of the darkness and back into the light that we know these characters inhabit so well. But we're gonna have to see them struggle a bit first and that's fine. We'll get there . . . </div>
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<strong>DIVERSE CAST</strong></div>
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Much to the chagrin of so called "fans", superhero movies and TV shows are looking much more diverse than they ever have. Is there anything wrong with that? No. Does it bother some people. Sigh . . . yes. I don't understand why. I'm of the mindset that as long as the actor is good in the role it won't bother me what ethnicity they are. Nobody bats an eye when a theatre troupe puts on an all female cast of <em>Macbeth </em>but if you cast a black woman to play an alien princess then you better jump on your keyboards and fuck up her day with your hate. Personally, I love it. When I was a kid, I looked up to Batman. He was rich, strong, and bad ass. As a white kid, it never occurred to me that I wasn't seeing very many heroes of color or hell even heroes of the female variety. Now that I'm older, it warms my heart to see little girls dressing up as Wonder Woman and African American kids talking about how much Black Panther and his cast means to them. It's a wonderful thing to see and I see why it's necessary during a casting call. But also, let's not forget, the Titans are diverse to begin with - an orange-alien princess, a half demon young woman, a boy with green skin, among others that aren't the (for lack of a better word) traditional heroes we're used to seeing. Again, that's a great thing. It's more "butts in seats" as my theater director likes to say.</div>
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<strong>NEW CONTINUITY</strong></div>
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Believe it or not I LOVE when my favorite comic books are adapted into a new medium. It means I get to meet these characters all over again in a brand new continuity. While I may not always agree with the choices that the filmmakers and actors make, I always appreciate a new direction. The thing that most "fans" seem to forget is that these characters' stories, histories, costumes, etc are always being reimagined. If it's ok to change it in the comic books, why is it wrong to change it on film? Now I'll admit that a drastic, unnecessary change is a bad thing. Like we don't need Batman as a hard core punk rock band leader with a pet bat named Alfred. Cuz that's not Batman. But an angry Dick Grayson, desperate to escape the shadow of Batman? That's perfect. That's exactly what I want to see. But how did they get there? I love finding that out because it tells me that the creators of the show were fans of the material and wanted to put their own spin on it. You know who does that literally all the time? Your favorite comic book writers and artists. The core of the characters we love is there, but this story is brand new and they're finding their way. Whether or not it works is yet to be seen, but I'm excited at the new possibilities. </div>
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<strong>YOUNG JUSTICE</strong></div>
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One of the best animated series of all time is without a doubt <em>Young Justice. </em>This "cartoon" like <em>Batman: the Animated Series </em>before it wasn't afraid to tell mature, dark stories that were still safe enough for kids to watch and enjoy. In my mind, <em>Justice League: the Animated Series </em>was the perfect template for telling animated JL stories and <em>Young Justice </em>was how you do perfect Teen Titans adventures. I have no doubt the producers are aware of this and will craft an exciting show that's the best parts of <em>Young Justice </em>and the better live action DC Films. Keeping the show an ensemble of DC's best young heroes is the best way to treat this new series. As with any first season of a show, I think there will be some stumbles in storytelling but lucky for the producers and writers they have a perfect template to draw inspiration from and that's <em>Young Justice. </em>I mean that show worked so well establishing each character as an individual and an essential part of the team. <em>Titans </em>would do well to learn from that. Hopefully, we'll see more of the characters in future trailers before the series hits this fall.</div>
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As a lifelong DC fan, believe me when I tell you that I'm just as nervous as I am excited for this new series. Is it what I was expecting? Hell no. Does that mean it will be bad? No. Personally, I've loved the darker DC Films and I'm glad the producers weren't afraid to start <em>Titans </em>off that way. Like I said, I think these characters will start in a dark place and then help each other back to the light. It's what families do.</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! <em></em></div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-24354855347301692752018-07-18T10:14:00.001-07:002018-07-18T10:14:11.611-07:008 THINGS A BATWOMAN TV SHOW MUST DO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The CW shocked the internet (well maybe not shocked) the other day with the announcement that Batwoman was getting her own TV series. This is exciting news for a number of reasons: First it will be the first time the lead hero is openly gay, second it's a Bat-family TV series which has not been done (<em>Gotham </em>technically doesn't count as Batman is not in it), and third it's another step forward in the same vein as <em>Supergirl </em>and <em>Jessica Jones </em>to have a female led series, both in front of and behind the camera. <br />
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The Kate Kane version of Batwoman is a relatively new addition to DC Comics. Sure there have been Batwomen in the past, and more famously Batgirls, but Kate is different. She's a veteran, Bruce Wayne's cousin, and already primed for leadership due to harsh training by her father, Colonel Jacob Kane. She's interesting to me because she simultaneously stands apart from the rest of the Bat-family and yet is one of two characters (the other of course being Damian Wayne) that is actually blood-related to Batman. Literally any of the Bat-family members could lead a compelling and exciting TV series but since Greg Berlanti and co. have decided to go with Batwoman, I want to offer some unsolicited advice and what I think could make it a fantastic TV show.<br />
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<strong>LEARN FROM THAT OTHER VET'S SHOW</strong></div>
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There's plenty of drama to be mined with a television show about a war vet. You know what hasn't been done yet? A show about a lesbian that was dishonorably discharged from the military suffering from PTSD. THAT is brand new territory for prime time television to cover and the producers would be remiss to overlook that in favor of more superheroics (although that's obviously important and we'll come back to that). <br />
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<em>The Punisher </em>on Netflix has been regarded as one of the best television stories about veterans suffering from PTSD. It's a touchy subject that maybe people don't want to talk about or even hear about but with thousands of vets taking their lives every year from trauma associated with war, I think it's important to showcase what it's like for them and how they can cope. In the comics, when Kate was discharged she spent her nights partying, getting drunk/high, and other such self destructive behaviors. It wasn't until she was rescued by Batman that she decided to get her life back on track and become Batwoman to save Gotham City. <br />
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<strong>ROMANTIC INTERESTS</strong></div>
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Speaking of touchy subjects . . . Yes ladies and gentlemen, Kate Kane AKA Batwoman is gay. While I don't think her sexuality defines her, it is a part of her character and will be addressed going forward. So far, the CW has done an excellent job of showcasing out-gay characters such as Curtis Holt/Mr. Terrific, Alex Danvers, Sara Lance, Anissa Pierce/Thunder to name a few. During <em>Supergirl's </em>second season, Kara's sister Alex went a journey of self discovery and came out of the closet. It was one of the best stories of the entire series because it was portrayed as realistically as possible. Alex's journey was scary for her and she was worried about alienating herself from her family and friends. Ultimately, they all embraced her new status quo. Being gay didn't change anything about Alex other than the dates she might bring to family dinners or game nights. These types of experiences are not as unique as you would think. It's a story that feels unique to the individual because it's so terrifying and ostracizing but the amazing truth is that there are so many people out there that can relate to that experience. To have their story told in a prime time, action packed superhero television series is so exciting. Comic books and science fiction are great at telling exciting stories cleverly disguised as social and political issues. And sometimes the stories aren't disguised. They are blatantly stated for the world to see. Even in today's more accepting society, it's still a bold statement to make and I'm proud of the CW for embracing it with these wonderful characters. </div>
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<strong>FEMINISM/EQUAL RIGHTS</strong></div>
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These days I fear that the word "feminism" is sometimes also a touchy subject. True feminism is all about equal rights, which of course is admirable. Unfortunately, like any social movement, there are bad apples that give the whole group a bad name. I think it's great that we have heroes like Supergirl, White Canary, Vixen, Black Canary, and now Batwoman that can stand shoulder to shoulder next to Green Arrow, the Flash, and the other Legends. I'm not saying that I want Kate to be marching down the street in every other episode in protest for women's rights. I don't think that's a bad thing, I just think the actions of the character speak loud enough. She's been trained in combat by both the military and Batman. Basically - she's someone you don't want to mess with. I think it's important not just for little girls that will watch the show but for boys too. They need to see that things like "fight like a girl" isn't an insult but a compliment. I mean, if anyone can fight like Batwoman they deserved to be praised . . . and maybe feared a little. </div>
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<strong>SHADOW OF THE BAT</strong></div>
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Much like Supergirl, Batwoman will have to work to get out of the shadow of her more famous cousin. In the comics, it's easy enough. She can be in her own world away from his activities and have her own adventures. On TV though, with a much larger audience, let's just say there's a reason Superman's name came up more than a few times during the first season of <em>Supergirl. </em>It's not to say that Kate can't handle her own, it's just that with the BAT in the title, audiences automatically expect a Bat-cameo. Personally, I'm all for Batman to show up at some point down the line, but it's important for Batwoman to find her own voice. One of the issues I had with <em>Supergirl </em>and <em>Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. </em>during their first seasons was that there were too many references, winks, and downright name dropping of Superman and the Avengers. Batwoman wouldn't exist (literally) without Batman and <em>Agents </em>wouldn't have been popular without the Marvel brand attached. So yes, a reference and acknowledgment is fine, but you're on your own now kid. You gotta find your voice and be your own hero. Eventually, <em>Supergirl </em>and <em>Agents </em>did just that. Supergirl went the entire season three without needing a guest appearance or even much reference to Superman. Truthfully, I barely noticed because I was so excited to see Kara and her heroics. </div>
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<strong>SYMBOL OF HOPE</strong></div>
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In <em>The Dark Knight </em>Batman says to Harvey Dent, "You're the symbol of hope I could never be." To me, if they have any reference to Batman it should be that. Kate is a very different type of hero than Batman. She doesn't have to stay in the shadows and strike fear in the hearts of criminals. She stands up tall in the light in front of them. Batman's goal is to inspire the people of Gotham and that is shown perfectly with Batwoman. After all, she's proof that he is an inspiration. But unlike Batman, she can have a more gentle touch with the public. I'm not saying she's gonna be going to public events like Adam West's Batman did (and please God no), but she will be a more, for lack of a better word, approachable hero for the people of Gotham to admire. Of course, like Bruce, she has her inner demons (such as the PTSD we discussed earlier) but she's much more than just a female Batman. That would not be a compelling story, otherwise why not just do a Batman show? Having the star be Kate means she can lead in a way that he can't. </div>
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<strong>ROGUES GALLERY</strong></div>
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Batman has the best Rogues Gallery in all of comic books and if you disagree I'm prepared to fight you on this. But I'm pretty confident you will agree. <em>Gotham </em>has done a really great job of showcasing a lot of Batman's wonderful, wacky, and evil adversaries. As much as I would love to see Batwoman take on Clayface, the Riddler, Poison Ivy, and even the Joker, I think it's best if the producers focus on the lesser used Bat-villains and Kate's own enemies from her comic book series. Again, the worst thing the show can do is treat it like "a female Batman series". She has to be more than that. I wouldn't mind if she had a female Joker (of sorts) to fight but it wouldn't be very interesting if all the villains were just gender-bent to fit the female Batman. Granted, I'm not worried and more often than not, the producers have proven that they know how to make exciting and interesting villains for our heroes to fight. Kate only has about an eighth of the comic book history that Batman has, but she's still a vigilante in Gotham and has made plenty of enemies. </div>
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<strong>LIKE FATHER LIKE DAUGHTER</strong></div>
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One of the more recent, and best, stories to come out is how ex-Colonel Jacob Kane tried to make a Bat-army of his own. These were military trained men and women that were also trained in stock news footage of Batman and his allies. Their goal was to take the concept of Batman and weaponize it. Technically speaking, that's pretty bad ass, but then again, not everyone is going to harness the skills of Batman for good. Jacob might have the best intentions but it puts him in direct conflict with his daughter. Jacob's plan is basically "you're either with us or against us cuz this is happening either way." For a strong, independent woman that's not exactly the thing she wants to hear, even if it is coming from her father that she loves very much. One of the best subplots throughout all of the CW shows is that of legacy and family. There's the family you are born with and the family you make. In the case of the Bat-family they have all come together through some sort of tragedy and made each other their own adopted family. I have no doubt that Kate's story will touch upon that in her series. Kate's legacy and family is compelling enough for a great series. </div>
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<strong>LEGACY</strong></div>
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If there's one thing the CW shows love to do, and have done well, is build a legacy and partners for their heroes. Seeing characters like Spoiler/Stephanie Brown, Orphan/Cassandra Cain, or even Barbara Gordon herself would be super exciting for longtime Bat-fans that have been craving for more of the extended Bat-family to get their due on screen. Personally, one of my favorite comic book series of all time was when Stephanie Brown was Batgirl. If she got to play some role during <em>Batwoman </em>I would be over the moon excited about that. </div>
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Either way it's safe to say that Kate will definitely be getting back up in some way whether that's from Renee Montoya either as a cop or as the Question or any other random characters that the producers can dig up from the DC archives. I mean, Cisco Ramon wasn't a Flash supporting character in the comic books but that didn't stop them from putting him front and center for a heroic journey on <em>The Flash. </em>It will definitely be exciting to see who the producers choose to give a new spotlight to next to Kate. </div>
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I really can't stress enough how exciting this announcement is. I knew we would be in for a treat when Stephen Amell first announced that Batwoman would make her debut during this upcoming year's crossover event, but I didn't think we'd actually get a full-fledged spin off! </div>
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Kate is a perfect fit for the already diverse and ever expanding DC-CW universe. I think the show will definitely play up the BAT part of her name but, if done right, it won't be long before people are saying, "You mean there's a BatMAN too?" Ok ok maybe that's a stretch! But given the producers track record for telling relevant, compelling, and all around incredible stories, I'm not worried. Time to start the countdown!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - The Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-40040830389792618542018-03-09T20:35:00.002-08:002018-03-09T20:35:51.199-08:007 SUGGESTIONS FOR THE NEXT DC CW CROSSOVER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I may have mentioned before (once or twice) I'm a pretty big fan of the CW superhero shows <i>Arrow, the Flash, Supergirl, DC's Legends of Tomorrow, </i>and now <i>Black Lightning. </i>I think they are lots of fun to watch and it's amazing to see characters I never thought would be done in live action brought to life like Mr. Terrific, Black Canary, the Atom, Firestorm, Kid Flash, and so many others. Ever since Barry Allen guest starred on <i>Arrow </i>four years ago (damn that feels forever ago!) I had a feeling we were going to be in for a real treat. Little did I know that we would get yearly crossovers with all of these incredible heroes. It's like having a Justice League movie every year! I'm a pretty happy nerd to say the least.<br />
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The first crossover between <i>Arrow </i>and <i>the Flash </i>was simple enough a basic "they fight, then team up" story that is common ground for superheroes. The next year we got to see the Legends of Tomorrow start to come together. Then the next year the heroes had to team up against the Dominators and their <i>Invasion! </i>This past year saw the biggest, and best in my opinion, crossover yet with <i>Crisis on Earth X</i>. It's one thing for the heroes to have to fight each other, but to fight evil versions of themselves from an alternate Earth? That's going to be tough to top next year! But I have faith that the producers will think of something. In the meantime, I'd like to share my thoughts on what would be cool to see next year:<br />
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<b>DARKSEID</b></div>
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This one is probably not very likely but given the current state of the DC Films (IE: they're kind of a mess) I'd say the timing is right to give Darkseid some much needed TV exposure. He was the primary antagonist during <i>Smallville </i>season ten but given the restraints that they had on their budget he wasn't much to behold. A strong presence sure, but not as intimidating as the Lord of Apokolips should be. </div>
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In the 7 years (lord in Heaven I'm old) since <i>Smallville </i>ended there have been major advancements in TV CGI and I think that the writers and producers could figure out a clever way to bring Darkseid and his minions to Earth 1 or Earth 38 or any in between to fight our CW Justice League! I mean one way to up the ante from fighting aliens and doppelgangers would be to fight the most evil being in the universe. Am I right? And if he is fully CGI then maybe recast Michael Ironside (from <i>Superman: the Animated Series</i>) as the voice. Plus it's a cool way to bring in Mister Miracle and Big Barda into a live action setting! There's a lot of possibility here!</div>
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<b>POWER GIRL</b></div>
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One character that has been strangely absent from both <i>Supergirl </i>and the other <i>Arrowverse </i>shows is Power Girl. During <i>Crisis on Earth X, </i>Wells says that there are 53 Earths and 53 Kryptons. So that would mean that Earth 1 has a Kara, right? Somewhere on Barry and Oliver's world is a Kara Zor El. Or should I say Kara Zor L? During <i>Infinite Crisis, </i>Power Girl discovered her true origin. She was one of the only survivors of a long forgotten Earth 2 where she was Kal L's cousin and was raised as the daughter of Clark Kent and Lois Lane. She tries her best to unite the two worlds but . . . long story short it doesn't go well.</div>
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Probably when <i>Supergirl </i>was on CBS the producers had loose plans to bring her to the CW verse by having Power Girl a recurring character. Or maybe she would have appeared on <i>Supergirl</i>. I mean who knows? Either way, I think it's past time for Karen Starr to make an appearance during one of these events. I mean if they can't reach Kara on Earth 38 they're gonna need a "big gun" of their own, right? </div>
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<b>ANOTHER MUSICAL</b></div>
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I had a previous blog post where I mentioned all these different talented singers that have played superheroes. That's never been more evident than in the casts of <i>The Flash </i>and <i>Supergirl</i>. They decided to use their wonderfully talented casts to the best of their abilities and have them sing, dance, and save the day all in one unforgettable episode. It was a really exciting experience for me because I'm a huge comic book fan (obviously) and a musical fan. So to see these actors I love so much sing and dance during a <i>Flash </i>episode was amazing. The only downside to me was how short it was. </div>
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I really think that between Darren Criss's Music Meister and Mr. Mxyzptlk, they could cause some mayhem for our heroes on one or both of their Earths. Plus this would be an opportunity to bring back Joss Whedon to write some more original music like he did for <i>Buffy the Vampire Slayer </i>and <i>Dr. Horrible's Sing Along Blog</i>. There were rumors of him doing that for the <i>Duet </i>episode but those obviously weren't true. Since he's "failed" at making a Batgirl movie, maybe now he can focus his attention on a different corner of the DC Multiverse and write some awesome new episodes of the DC CW shows. I mean otherwise what is he good for? Seems like light hearted TV shows are a bit more his speed anyway . . . </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">He tried . . . </span></div>
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Whether it's Joss Whedon or someone else writing some original songs for the casts to sing, I think we are due for another awesome musical experience. </div>
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<b><i>GOTHAM</i></b></div>
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If there's one thing that fans of <i>Arrow </i>have been asking for since day one, it's a Batman guest appearance. We've gotten Ra's Al Ghul, Talia, Firefly (kinda), and even a name drop or two but never an actual full blown appearance by the Dark Knight himself. Well . . . here's a chance. Now, I'll admit, I have no idea how this would happen. Like at all. <i>Gotham </i>films in New York and the CW shows, save for <i>Black Lightning</i>, film in Vancouver, Canada. Right off the bat (no pun intended) it's already a technically difficult endeavor. However, that didn't stop them from having Barry Allen guest star on <i>Supergirl </i>when they used to film in Los Angeles! Granted they had the same producers but hey - they still pulled it off! </div>
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Now it doesn't necessarily have to be a full blown crossover. After all, <i>Gotham </i>looks and feels completely different from <i>Arrow </i>and <i>the Flash</i>. So maybe we don't need a weird crossover where Oliver and Barry are teaming up with Jim Gordon and Harvey Bullock. Maybe instead what we need are the Bat-villains invading Star City or Central City. How cool would it be to see Oliver have to fight Mr. Freeze, the Riddler, the Penguin, the Scarecrow and all those other wacky Gotham citizens? I'm sure it will never happen but it's not TOTALLY out of the realm of possibilities. </div>
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<b><i>BLACK LIGHTNING</i></b></div>
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Let's be honest here, this one is a matter of when not if. <i>Black Lightning </i>films in Atlanta, Georgia so again it's going to be technically difficult but not impossible. It's just a matter of Wells and Cisco discovering which Earth Jefferson Pierce and his family live on and then asking for their help during some sort of Crisis. Or maybe Jefferson accidentally crosses to Earth 1 and helps the other CW heroes during one of their fights. It doesn't need to be a long drawn out explanation. After all, Barry met Kara just by running like REALLY fast. </div>
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At this stage, a crossover would be a bad idea. <i>Black Lightning </i>has a very different tone and, let's face it, it's much more topical than the others. While <i>Supergirl </i>and <i>the Flash </i>will use phrases like "fake news" and "make Earth great again" to add that sense of realism (so to speak), <i>Black Lightning </i>is much more political such as having protests like Black Lives Matter and the events from Charlottesville, VA as a part of the actual plots they are telling. It's a bold move and very brave in my opinion. Also, I think the stories are handled well. I think the heroes of the other CW shows could use that extra dose of reality every now and again. I mean as real as we can be when the main character has lightning powers. You know what I mean . . . Again when not if. </div>
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<b><i>SMALLVILLE </i></b></div>
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Of all the suggestions on this list, this one I think has the most potential to become a reality. Tom Welling has already expressed interest in appearing on <i>The Flash </i>and he strongly hinted that he would reprise the role of Clark Kent. For me, it goes back to Wells saying that there are 53 Earths. One of them is most likely the <i>Smallville </i>Earth. Now that <i>Smallville </i>has been off the air for a while, it would be a good time to bring back Tom Welling as Superman and Michael Rosenbaum as Lex Luthor. Plus, and I don't think I'm alone here, it's way past time that Barry, Oliver, Sara, Ray and everyone else meets Superman! I mean for crying out loud, they've established Bruce Wayne as existing in their universe, it's safe to say that Clark Kent does too! </div>
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Oh and there's that too. Before he was making you cry every week on <i>This is Us</i>, Justin Hartley was the first live action Green Arrow on the CW. He did a pretty damn good job too. There was talk originally of his character from <i>Smallville </i>having a spin off but the producers decided instead to craft their own version of the Green Arrow mythos. In hindsight, I think that was a great idea. However, I do miss <i>Smallville</i>'s version of the character. I think it would be great to bring him back. Also, it doesn't have to be hard to explain why this version of Clark and Oliver look different from the ones our characters know. I mean . . . they look different because their parents look different. Or something. I don't know dude. I ain't gettin paid to write this shit. You figure it out Greg Berlanti and Marc Guggenheim! </div>
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But seriously, I think it would be great to get these characters all together again for another battle against Darkseid or the Anti Monitor or the Injustice League or Lex Luthor or Mongul or something! I don't know man! There's so many options!</div>
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<b><i>THE DEATH OF SUPERMAN</i></b></div>
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Controversial opinion - <i>Supergirl</i>'s version of Superman needs to die. Why do I say that? Three reasons - 1) he doesn't seem to contribute much to that universe since Kara arrived. After all, most of his rogues are being adapted to fight Kara instead of him. 2) The Legion of Superheroes has now been inspired by Kara instead of him. Don't get me wrong, that's all well and good but it doesn't fit comic book lore. I don't mind the change but I can't help but feel like it diminishes Kal El's impact on Earth. 3) Kara has been doing a great job protecting the Earth without him. I mean seriously, she has so many fights where he is nowhere to be found. Again, not a bad thing as it is her show and she should be the reason we all tune in, but I can't help but feel like we're missing out by not having him as a regular character. </div>
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So the solution? Kill him. I'm not saying he's useless, I'm just saying he's not needed. Plus his death would be a good reason for the heroes to reunite (weddings and funerals bring family and friends together). They could inspire Kara to take up his legacy as the World's Greatest Hero. Like I said, it's been said that her ideals and heroism is what inspires the Legion of Superheroes, so why not cement that fact by having Superman be killed off permanently? </div>
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I'd be very sad if it happened because I love Tyler Hoechlin and his take on Clark/Superman. But he's gotta go so that Kara can take his place. Is this likely to happen? Probably not. Then again the animated series, the films, the comics, and everything in between has adapted this story in some way, shape, or form. My gut tells me it's likely that <i>Supergirl </i>will tackle it eventually. And what better way than during an epic crossover where the other heroes are their to support their friend's loss. Man I have problems don't I? . . . Yikes . . . </div>
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Will one of these ideas make it to the small screen this fall? Maybe. Maybe not. I think they are all plausible in some way. These crossovers have gotten successfully bigger and better and I can't wait to see what they cook up next year. </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-10324001608296521102018-02-28T07:43:00.002-08:002018-02-28T07:43:20.391-08:005 STORY IDEAS FOR THE MAN OF STEEL SEQUEL<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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To say that it's been a wild and slightly frustrating ride with the DCEU is an understatement. I'm in the minority that I've enjoyed all of the films that have been released. I see the flaws, I hear the rumors, but for the most part the films have been entertaining or exciting to me in some way. <em>Man of Steel </em>in particular was a highlight. I enjoyed the grittier, harder take on Superman. Within the context of the story they were telling it worked for me and I loved it. Even the follow up with <em>Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice </em>I enjoyed because it was what I felt that film should have been. <em>Justice League </em>gave us a more "traditional" Superman where he was a bit more optimistic (I guess being resurrected will do that for you). For my money, Henry Cavill is a great actor that can do whatever is thrown at him. I felt like the character had a natural progression throughout his three movies. <br />
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Every so often there is talk of when the next Superman film will be released. I think we are long over due for another solo Superman adventure. He's the original superhero and has the potential to tell the most exciting and inspiring stories. I don't know what the hold up is, but I do know what stories Warner Bros should consider using. There have been so many great Superman comics over the years, I'd love to see one of these adapted. <br />
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<strong><em>SUPERMAN AND THE LEGION OF SUPERHEROES</em></strong></div>
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Geoff Johns (my man) has told some of the best superhero stories over the last 15 or so years. I know because I've read a good chunk of them. One of my all time favorites is <em>Superman and the Legion of Superheroes. </em>In this story, Superman is reminded of childhood friends he had from the 31st Century. They are the Legion of Superheroes, a gathering of alien heroes from across the galaxy inspired by Superman's legacy. This story features Superman brought to the future to help them reinspire Earth which has been overrun with xenophobia and Superman's legacy as an alien has been written as a superhero born on Earth. </div>
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Now that I think about it, this is the PERFECT story to tell in Trump's America. Superman is a character that represents all life. His motto is to "preserve life at all costs." I've stated before how Superman fights for Truth, Justice and the American Way but not America the country but America the idea. The idea that human beings have the right to live with peace, security, and dignity. In the book, Superman is shocked to learn that his legacy is being tarnished. He sets out to prove that he represents everyone and even the bad guys are worth redeeming.</div>
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Honestly this would be the perfect story to tell post <em>Justice League</em>. What better way to keep a traditional, optimistic Superman then by showing him that he inspires a literal legion of heroes? It's the type of story that could probably only done on the big screen with a massive budget. Let's just hope that the visual effects improve. </div>
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Yeesh . . . <br />
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<strong><em>UP, UP, AND AWAY!</em></strong></div>
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Another Geoff Johns (my man) gem, co-written by Superman alum Kurt Busiek. The best part of this story and why I think it would make a great film is that it's more of a Clark Kent story than a Superman story. It takes place after Superman has been "missing" for a year. In reality, it's just that Clark has lost his powers and has been able to focus all his attention on his job at the Daily Planet and with his wife, Lois. Given that <em>Justice League </em>has resurrected Superman I think this type of story would be a great way to reintroduce the new, optimistic Superman to the world. It would be a great way to see him enjoying the little things in life, like a couple scenes where he eats a pretzel with mustard and calls it "heaven." Little character pieces like that make Clark much more human than some critical fans give him credit for. </div>
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On the other side of things, this story features Lex Luthor coming across Kryptonian artifacts and using them to build weapons and machinery to wreak havoc on Metropolis (as one does). I think it would be so great to have more Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor. Let's say in the film, he's found a way to beat his charges and is rebuilding LexCorp. Of course, with the return of Superman, he's on the warpath again and intends to kill him, permanently this time. Man that would be a fun movie. It would also be a great way to include some lesser known villains to fight Superman like Bloodsport, Silver Banshee, Riot, and Neutron. It's one of my favorite Superman stories and possibly my favorite Clark Kent story.</div>
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<strong><em>REIGN OF THE SUPERMEN</em></strong></div>
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Since <em>Batman v Superman </em>and <em>Justice League </em>have tackled the Death and Return of Superman, it seems to me that the logical continuation of that story would be the <em>Reign of the Supermen. </em>This story featured four different people saying they were the new Superman: Superboy, a young clone of Superman, Cyborg-Superman, a pilot whose consciousness was merged with a Superman robot, the Eradicator, a Kryptonian artificial intelligence, and Steel, an African American male inspired by Superman's influence to become a hero. I think a feature film adaptation of this story would be really exciting and a lot of fun. It could also address the questions of "What does it mean to be a hero?" and "Who deserves the title of Superman?" </div>
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Each character has some sort of aspect of Superman. With Superboy, he literally has his DNA. Well, half. The other half is Lex Luthor, which would be a great wrinkle in the story if they go this route. The Eradicator is Kryptonian and can mimic Superman's powers but not his ideals. Cyborg-Superman is just as powerful as Superman but starts to go insane. In the comics, he's partially responsible for the destruction of Coast City, Green Lantern's home town. What a dick! Despite being human, Steel has the right moral values and his suit gives him flight and super strength like Superman. Each one may represent a piece of Superman but does that mean they deserve to be called Superman? This story would be a great way to keep the film located in Metropolis and deal with how the citizens deal with him. It's something the recent films haven't touched upon yet and this story would be a great way to do it. </div>
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<strong>SUPERGIRL</strong></div>
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This is probably a long shot considering that Supergirl currently is starring in a successful television series on the CW. But then again <em>Justice League </em>featured Barry Allen/The Flash and Superman has guest starred on <em>Supergirl </em>so . . . Maybe? </div>
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My favorite Supergirl comic was the Jeph Loeb/Michael Turner story where she was reintroduced during <em>Superman/Batman. </em>In that story, she arrived in a Kryptonite meteor, unaware of how long Krypton had been gone. She is trained by Wonder Woman and the Amazons but eventually kidnapped by Darkseid and turned into a minion for his evil plans. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and Barda rescue her and bring her back to Earth, introducing her to the hero community as Supergirl. If the film were to take that approach then it would be a cool way to have another film featuring DC's Trinity with Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman. </div>
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Another option is how Supergirl was introduced during the <em>Injustice 2 </em>comic tie in. Her space ship crash lands in Kahdaq and she's adopted by Black Adam. Given that it was announced that Dwayne Johnson's Black Adam would not be introduced in <em>Shazam </em>but in his own film, it would be interesting to see this particular take done on the big screen. It's a way to separate the story from what was done on the TV show in terms of her origin. Plus, and I don't think I'm alone in thinking this, seeing Black Adam and Superman duke it out in live action would be pretty fucking amazing.</div>
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Of course the other option is the <em>Man of Steel </em>prequel comic book where Kara arrived on Earth and I don't know. Some shit happened I think. I read it in poor quality 5 years ago when I pre ordered my tickets for them on a crappy website and literally haven't been able to find it since. I mean I liked it and everything but it's gone, dude. It was reference, slightly, in <em>Man of Steel </em>when he finds the ship in the Arctic and there's a pod that's opened but I'd be surprised if the filmmakers followed up on that. After all, there are far more interesting ways to tell Kara's story in the films than following up on that old thread. </div>
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<em><strong>PUBLIC ENEMIES</strong></em></div>
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I've mentioned before how <em>Batman: Hush </em>got me in monthly comic books but <em>Superman/Batman </em>kept me around. The first arc by Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness was <em>Public Enemies. </em>In this story, President Lex Luthor discovers a meteor made of Kryptonite is heading toward Earth and he blames Superman. Batman tries to help Superman clear his name, which of course involves fighting multiple supervillains, other heroes, and eventually Lex Luthor himself in his Lexo-suit. It's an exciting story with a ticking time bomb as the Kryptonite meteor is hurtling toward Earth, weakening Superman, and scaring the people into believing Lex's lies about how Superman is the cause of their impending doom.</div>
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It's not hard to believe that a story can be told where Lex Luthor is released from prison and becomes president. I mean I don't want to be political here but we do have a current president accused of several crimes and he happens to be a billionaire, xenophobe. #JustSaying </div>
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In any event, this story could easily be told with Batman as a main character or he could be substituted for another character like Steel or Superboy or someone else we have not seen yet. I think this particular story has the potential to be an extremely exciting blockbuster film. It was already adapted as an animated feature and is one of my favorites that Warner Bros Animation has produced. I mean who wouldn't want a more traditional team up film with Superman and Batman where they have to fight a dozen or so supervillains? As a great man once said, "Shut up and take my money!"</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yeah that's the one!</span></div>
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These are just a handful of ideas that I think would make really exciting, fun, and unique Superman films. These comics are among my all time favorite Superman stories. I think it's safe to say we can put to bed the brooding, doubting Clark Kent and see him start to embrace a more fun, optimistic Superman. Again, I'm a big fan of <em>Man of Steel </em>and <em>BvS</em> but I agree that it's time for a more traditional Superman. More than ever, I think we need a hero we can look up to that inspires us in trying times. Superman has always been good at that. Let's see that happen again! Make Superman great again!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - The Comic Junkie! <strong><em></em></strong></div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-86971390740890313222018-02-27T20:32:00.001-08:002018-02-27T20:32:21.804-08:0015 SUGGESTIONS FOR THE DC STREAMING SERVICE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Later this year will see the release of DC Entertainment's very own streaming service. Basically it will be Netflix but exclusive to DC related content. So instead of Netflix and chill we'll be able to DC and chill! My kind of night . . .<br />
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Ahem . . . anyway! Like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime before it, DC intends to make original content exclusive to their platform. So far only a few original shows have been announced, <i>Titans, Young Justice: Outsiders, </i>an animated <i>Harley Quinn </i>series, and <i>Metropolis </i>a series revolving around Lex Luthor and Lois Lane solving crimes in Metropolis before Superman arrives. Which is the type of show that every super-fan wants to see (I guess). I'm kidding, maybe it will be good! This got me thinking, what else could they cook up? Netflix has everything from comedies like <i>Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt </i>to dramas like <i>Ozark </i>to family friendly entertainment like <i>Fuller House</i>. In my opinion, if the DC platform is going to be successful it should adopt a similar pattern. Here are my ideas for what DC should produce next.<br />
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<b>BATGIRL</b></div>
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DC has no shortage of Bat-characters to make an awesome TV show out of. From the Dark Knight himself to all his sidekicks, allies, and even villains, but they seem to be getting the spotlight on <i>Gotham</i>. Now that Joss Whedon has exited the <i>Batgirl </i>film and Warner Bros has put the film on the backburner, it's the perfect time for someone to step in and produce a bad ass Batgirl series. The best part is that there are at least three great Batgirl characters to choose from: Barbara Gordon, Cassandra Cain, or Stephanie Brown. Or, like the picture I used from the <i>Futures' End </i>tie in, use all of them! Gail Simone has reportedly expressed interest in writing a Batgirl film, and while she would be an inspired choice, I think her talents would be better used making a cool Batgirl TV series. Each Batgirl has her fans and in my opinion they are all worthy of television treatment. There's a rich history to be tapped with this character and the possibilities are exciting enough on their own!<br />
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<b>AMERICAN VAMPIRE</b></div>
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This is a pretty obvious one right? The comic itself reads like story boards to the coolest vampire show already, so why not just film it already? As part of DC's Vertigo imprint, this series is able to be far more adult and mature than if it was just another DC horror comic. I got into this comic after being a fan of Scott Snyder from his <i>Detective Comics </i>and <i>Batman </i>run and wanted to see what else he had done. Turns out, he has this really cool concept for telling a centuries spanning vampire mythology way more interesting than most vampire stories even bother putting into one chapter.</div>
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Seriously though, <i>American Vampire </i>is ripe for today's binge watching serialized story telling. It features multi dimensional characters and creative execution that streaming services thrive on. Plus there was a really cool Dracula story that would be awesome to see in live action!</div>
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<b>GREEN LANTERNS</b></div>
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One of the best comics to come out of <i>DC Rebirth</i>, at least in my opinion, was <i>Green Lanterns</i>. It allowed for familiar and exciting Green Lantern stories to be told with brand new characters in unique and fun ways. The two newest Green Lanterns are Jessica Cruz, a socially anxious shut in and Simon Baz, a wrongfully convicted Muslim seen as a terrorist by the people of Earth. Together they make a truly unlikely pair but eventually become best friends and partners protecting the planet from alien menaces. It's not easy given their inner demons but they manage to overcome them and save the day like true heroes. </div>
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Oh yeah . . . THAT. That would be a great show to binge watch. Right away there's the option for more diversity with the lineup as the leads are a Muslim male and a Hispanic female. But like all great story telling these characters are relatable in how they get into situations that are over their heads and have to overcome their own crap to pull through. It's something most people can relate to. Maybe not the fighting space monsters part, but you know . . . the getting over yourself thing. </div>
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I've expressed interest multiple times why I think Green Lantern and the Corps deserve their own show and this would be perfect for a serialized TV format. True the budget may be crazy huge but I have no doubt that in the right hands this show would be rewatchable with its themes, entertainment, and spectacle. </div>
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<b>SWAMP THING</b></div>
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With its current line up, DC has stuck to mostly traditional superhero fare or prequels. Basically, it's what people are used to from them. There's nothing wrong with that, but like I said, they should explore other options. <i>Swamp Thing </i>was one of my favorite comics that came out of the New 52. I had no knowledge of the character other than he was thing from the swamp (seemed like a safe assumption). I got the comic because I liked the artist, Yanick Paquette, and the writer, Scott Snyder, was killing it on <i>Batman</i>. In the first issue, I was hooked. I immediately looked into other <i>Swamp Thing </i>stories like the classic Alan Moore run. I even watched the original movie. While dated, the film was still interesting and fun (directed by the late, great Wes Craven). </div>
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There was a short lived <i>Swamp Thing </i>TV series in the 80s which I believe was a continuation of the films. I think a new take, one that embraces a Cronenbergesque body horror side of things, would be really exciting and something different than is traditionally offered by either DC or Marvel. It doesn't have to be gory but definitely scary and not afraid to take risks just like the comics always have been. Who doesn't love a great love story involving a swamp monster and a white haired bad ass female? Well, not many people now, probably, but if they make this show that will change!</div>
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<b>HOURMAN</b></div>
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A few years ago, there was talk of making an <i>Hourman </i>television series on the CW. These plans never materialized, instead Hourman was a supporting character in a couple episodes of <i>DC's Legends of Tomorrow</i>. While I enjoyed those episodes, I still wondered what this show would have looked like. Granted, I don't know much about the character other than being a fan of Geoff Johns' (my man) run on <i>JSA. </i>However, I do know that there have been multiple Hourmen in DC's history. Sometimes they don't have power, other times they have powers only for a short while - like 60 minutes (get it?). That would make for a fun police-procedural type of adventure show. Plus, with Hourman getting his power from Miraclo, an addictive substance, there's an opportunity to show the type of struggle beyond just fighting supervillains. Inner demons make for the best type of superhero stories after all. Plus this is a chance to explore other members of the JSA that don't normally get the spotlight on the other shows like Sandman, Wildcat, Starman, and all those awesome supporting characters.</div>
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<b>ANIMATED LEGO DC ADVENTURES</b></div>
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Hey, it can't all be for the adults right? The <i>Lego DC </i>animated films are actually a lot of fun and a great way to get kids excited about superheroes. I've seen a couple of the movies and they are fun and my nephews get excited for them. Of course, then they just want me to buy them more Legos . . . maybe this isn't a good idea . . . </div>
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But seriously, it's a great opportunity to have some family friendly entertainment and tell, dare I say, safer Justice League type stories. Of course the big budget <i>Lego Batman </i>movie starring Will Arnett was just about the perfect Batman film that 8 year old me could have asked for but these other short films have their value as well. A show like this could explore different story opportunities that a live action counterpart wouldn't be able to do, given the budget, and be a whole lot of wacky fun along the way. I mean, as comic book fans, we're all little kids at heart right? ;)</div>
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<b>JINXWORLD</b></div>
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When Bendis made the jump from Marvel to DC, he promised a wonderful partnership with DC where his original creations could thrive. Books like <i>Powers, Scarlet, </i>and <i>Jinx </i>are extremely popular with his fans and have more than enough potential to carry multiple live action television series. <i>Powers </i>was tried on a short lived Playstation platform but that fizzled out because . . . well I don't know to be honest. I assume the viewership wasn't there. Chalk it up to people not wanting to watch movies on a Playstation or possibly some other dumb reason. Either way, I think DC's streaming service is the perfect place to try again. I've read some of <i>Powers </i>and love the way it mixes the outrageous superhero action with a gritty crime drama. It's exactly the type of left field story telling that could set DC's platform apart from Netflix and Hulu. I imagine that some sort of announcement for something like this won't take long to materialize. After all, Bendis spent almost two decades at Marvel, DC had to have offered him something other than just Superman right?<br />
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<b>DC NATION SHORTS</b></div>
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In this day and age, how many times a day do you sit and get caught up watching short clips or trailers on YouTube? Not long ago, DC ran some funny, action packed shorts on Cartoon Network with their shows. I don't think those are on there anymore, but you can still find them on DC's YouTube page along with other cool shorts like the Batman and Superman 75th anniversary shorts. The streaming service is the perfect place to bring those back and tell any kind of story that a writer and animator can think of. My favorite was one where Lois Lane was desperate to get a one on one exclusive with Batman, getting into all kinds of hi jinks to get her story. It ended with Batman answering her questions and she helped him fight some crime. Hokey, yes, but lots of fun and made me laugh. Of course, it didn't hurt that Kevin Conroy played Batman in it. </div>
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I'd love to see the DC Nation shorts run the gamut from funny bits like the Lois Lane short to more serious ones like the short films DC used to produce with their animated films. It's the type of stuff that I live for as a comic book fan. Funny, exciting, dramatic, and ultimately unforgettable. </div>
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<b>THE SANDMAN</b></div>
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One of the most famous comic books of all time, <i>The Sandman </i>is an experiment in telling creative and marvelous stories in the comic book format. For some reason, the property remains in development Hell as no one can seem to crack how to adapt it in live action. I think it might be because the comic is so damn perfect, there's hardly a way to expand it without it falling flat. However, I think DC's streaming service is the perfect place to bring Morpheus and the dream world to life. As I've said before, streaming services have proven that they are at their best when they creators go nuts and tell the best stories that they can tell limited only by their imagination (and maybe budget, but that can be worked out). <i>Sandman </i>is something that fans have been clamoring for for years and I think now is the perfect time to adapt it and give us a wholly unique television series just like the comic was unique in its day. I mean, dang! These stories are timeless and still hold up to this day! What the hell is the hold up here??</div>
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<b>POWERLESS (or something similar)</b></div>
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While it was short lived, I kind of liked <i>Powerless</i>. It was the type of left field show that saw a different side of the DC Universe. I think the show had potential and an audience but ultimately played it too safe. I remember the original pitch being characters selling "Superhero Insurance" and being frustrated with all the collateral damage caused by super fights. The show was then turned into a more traditional work place comedy where the characters worked for Wayne Tech making gadgets to help ordinary citizens stay safe from super hero battles. I like the original pitch better. It's exactly the type of funny concept people are joking about after every superhero film. I mean . . . we all saw <i>Man of Steel </i>right? BILLIONS in property damage! And that was just two dudes! </div>
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While I doubt that <i>Powerless </i>will be revived, after all the show's quality was meh at best, I think there is room for a sitcom set in the DC universe. Whether it's a police comedy like <i>Brooklyn 99 </i>(one of my favorite shows) or a romantic comedy of some kind, there's potential to tell unique every day stories set against the backdrop of the DC Universe. <i>Powerless </i>proved, if nothing else, that the idea is at least entertaining so why not have another crack at it?</div>
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<b>ELSEWORLDS</b></div>
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One of DC's most popular brands is definitely Elseworlds. It's a chance for creators to tell creative, different, and surprising stories that they couldn't tell in the normal DC continuity. Stories like Kal El being raised by the Wayne family, Batman fighting Jack the Ripper in the late 19th century, Superman as a Soviet dictator, I mean these are bizarre but really awesome stories. DC recently released <i>Batman: Gotham by Gaslight </i>as an animated feature. I really loved it and it stayed really true to the weird but awesome narrative of the comic. Whether it's live action or animated, I think it would be great to see more of those stories adapted to the streaming platform. Like the <i>Justice League: Gods and Monsters </i>animated feature, it's a chance for creators to go wild and tell stories way out of left field (sorry I use that term a lot). They don't have to fit any continuity but the one they create and that's the type of creative freedom that artists crave. Netflix and Hulu offer that, it's how we can get shows like <i>Stranger Things </i>that a traditional network wouldn't risk but the streaming services thrive on awesome story telling from creative people. </div>
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<b>THE QUESTION</b></div>
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Now here's one that Marc Guggenheim (co-creator of <i>Arrow</i>) and I have in common. The Question, either Vic Sage or Renee Montoya, is a TV show just dying to be created. Just think of the tagline! "Need answers? Ask THE QUESTION!" Oh man, it's sad that I'm not a famous Hollywood writer.</div>
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Anyway! This is the type of show that could either "play it safe" as a cool police procedural or be really inventive and twist that narrative till it breaks. Personally, I'm all for the latter. If a show like this premiered on FOX it would be another cop show featuring superhero characters. But give it to the streaming service? Then it has the potential to break the mold and be grittier, nastier, and way more experimental. Think Mulder from <i>The X-Files </i>and his crazy conspiracy theories. He learns that they are true and is willing to go to any lengths to discover the truth! And either Sage or Montoya is the perfect protagonist for this type of show. Vic Sage is a journalist and Montoya is a harden detective. Either or both characters are perfect to tell these stories. Plus it's a way to be different where there doesn't have to be super villains like Deathstroke, the Thinker, or the Legion of Doom. The adversaries are human corruption, greed, and social injustice. That's the type of show that America needs right now. </div>
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<b>DOCUMENTARIES</b></div>
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One of my favorite things to watch are "behind the scenes" specials. When I was younger, I was always willing to spend the extra few bucks on a special edition DVD or Blu Ray if it meant I got to see how the film or TV show was made. DC has released a few documentaries over the years, one about their own origins (pictured above), one about their awesome supervillains called <i>Necessary Evil</i>, and one about Superman released when <i>Superman Returns </i>was in the movie theaters. These features interview not just people involved with the creation of these characters but different celebrities, including Stan Lee, who talk about the impact that the character or events had on them as children and in their professional careers. Freaking Gene Simmons describes his love of Clark Kent in the Superman documentary! </div>
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Maybe I'm in the minority with my love of these documentaries but they're probably inexpensive enough to pad some time and space on the streaming service. I think these types of films are very interesting and always get me excited to not only read more of the comics, or reread my favorites, but they inspire me knowing that there are other people like me that get just as excited about the DC Universe as I do. </div>
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<b>BIRDS OF PREY</b></div>
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Here's a little insight into my brain - I remember watching this show as a kid and kind of liking it but feeling like something about it was a bit off. I recently rewatched this show on the CW Seed app and it hit me: this show was strangely ahead of its time but was afraid to be ahead of its time. Let me explain: The pilot episode featured brief glimpses of Batman, Catwoman, Batgirl and the Joker (voiced by Mark Hamill) and then moved ahead several years to Batman and Catwoman's daughter, the Huntress/Helena Wayne, and Barbara Gordon, now wheelchair bound going by Oracle, fighting crime in New Gotham (for some reason it was renamed and I hated that). They recruit the original Black Canary's daughter, Dinah, who can sense other metahumans, in their fight against other metahumans. Also Harley Quinn, without signature look save for some wardrobe choices, served as the main antagonist in the first and only season. </div>
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So how was it ahead of its time? Well, the premise is actually pretty great. Huntress, Oracle, and Black Canary fighting Harley Quinn and metahumans and other crime in Gotham City in Batman's absence is awesome. But this was during the heyday of <i>Smallville </i>where executives all thought that no one wanted superheroes so it was better to keep the main characters in street clothes and avoid showing more comic book-esque type set pieces and costuming. That was a mistake as the show could have stood apart from <i>Smallville </i>by embracing those things and showing more masks and supervillainy than it's counterpart. Ironically, <i>Smallville </i>found more success by doing this giving Clark more Superman-like adventures and featuring actual superheroes like Green Arrow, Aquaman, Black Canary, and Zatanna in all their costumed glory. </div>
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I'd love to see this concept resurrected and done right. With the success of <i>Supergirl </i>and <i>Wonder Woman </i>fans are demanding more female led, not to mention solid, story telling and the DC streaming service is the place to do it. While it's cool that Lois Lane will be the main character on <i>Metropolis</i>, and truthfully she deserves it, a more action packed, semi-traditional (but not too safe!) series would be something I'd tune in for over and over again. </div>
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OH AND I'VE SAVED THE BEST FOR LAST!</div>
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<b>BATMAN BEYOND</b></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I recently rewatc</span><span style="text-align: left;">hed all of </span><i style="text-align: left;">Batman Beyond </i><span style="text-align: left;">including the masterpiece film </span><i style="text-align: left;">Return of the Joker </i><span style="text-align: left;">and it hit me how similar </span><i style="text-align: left;">Batman Beyond </i><span style="text-align: left;">and </span><i style="text-align: left;">Spider-Man: Homecoming </i><span style="text-align: left;">are, at least on the surface. They </span></div>
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have similar abilities in their costumes, both are coming of age teenage hero stories, feature a billionaire mentor, and are a whole heck of a lot of fun to watch (but that's a given). </div>
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It seems strange to me that given <i>Batman Beyond</i>'s popularity, it has remained largely untouched following the show's end. There have been comic book revivals that have been successful but no one has tried to make a new animated series, film, or even a live action take. Why is that? It's damn near universally praised as a logical and wonderful continuation to the Batman mythos and features creative, exciting, and menacing villains. Plus it helps that Terry McGinnis is a wonderful character doing his best to use Batman not only as a hero for Gotham City but as a tool to redeem his troubled soul. Man, I'm getting choked up just thinking about it!</div>
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If DC decides to do no other series with their streaming service, they should tackle this one. It's a great way to have the best of both worlds with a great Batman series but they don't have to use the classic Bat rogues or even Bruce Wayne's Batman much if at all. Like I said, <i>Gotham </i>is giving us unique and fun takes on the classic Batman rogues gallery and the films have a pretty bad ass version of Batman with Ben Affleck (although who knows how much longer that will last *grrr*). <i>Batman Beyond </i>is the best way to tell really cool Bat-adventures without the baggage of Bruce Wayne attached. Of course, Wayne is a main character, but the show belongs to Terry and his trials as the Batman. OH MY GOD! PLEASE DO THIS ONE, DC!! </div>
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So there you have it! My ideas, and pleas, for what DC should do with their amibitious undertaking. I think this platform has the potential to be successful but only if it does what DC Comics has always strived to do - tell unique and incredible stories that anyone can enjoy. There is so much potential out there within their books that they'd be remiss not to exploit anything and everything they can!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie</div>
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<br />For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-52219854381587122652018-02-24T22:38:00.003-08:002018-02-25T07:15:34.695-08:00BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS: A MARVELOUS LEGACY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As most of you have heard by now (and if you haven't then I'm truly shocked and you should be ashamed of yourself) Brian Michael Bendis is leaving Marvel Comics and is heading to DC with the intention of shaking up all kinds of shit. Because that's what he does best. He comes in, shakes shit up, pisses you off, and you end up loving the stories anyway. I mean . . . That's my side of it anyway!<br />
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As a kid, I was a huge Spider-Man and X-Men fan due to the animated series and the films that came out.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You may have heard of them</span></div>
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I didn't know much about the other characters like Captain America, Thor, Iron Man, Luke Cage, etc. I knew enough to get by but I wasn't an avid fan. As I got older and got serious into collecting and reading comic books on a weekly basis (and then some) I started digging into the Avengers and more. One name always stuck out - Brian Michael Bendis. This guy's name was all over these comics and I fell more and more in love with everything he was doing at Marvel Comics. I'll get more into it later, but he was my first love at Marvel Comics in terms of writers I actively wanted to follow. </div>
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You may or may not have seen websites that talk about his "legacy" at Marvel and all the amazing things he's done. This one is going to be more personal and specific to me. While I love characters like Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, and others that he either created or revitalized there are quite a few stories that meant a lot to me in my young adult life. Granted these are in no particular order but here we go!</div>
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<b><i>DARK AVENGERS/DARK REIGN</i></b></div>
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Every now and then a comic will sneak up on me and become the one that I have to read right away (and possibly buy multiple copies of) because it hits me like a freight train. Most of the time it's my new favorite because it's unpredictable and scares me a little. <i>Dark Avengers </i>was one of those books for quite a while. After <i>Secret Invasion</i>, Norman Osborn becomes the head of H.A.M.M.E.R. (replacing S.H.I.E.L.D.) and assembles his own twisted version of the Avengers including Venom, Bullseye, and Daken. It was wild and crazy and I had no idea what was going to happen next. Deep down, I knew this roster couldn't last forever but it was amazing to read and within the short time this book was around these characters, especially Norman, made a huge impact on me. </div>
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<b>HONORABLE MENTION:</b></div>
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During the <i>Dark Reign </i>story arc I was only getting two comics - <i>Dark Avengers </i>and <i>New Avengers. </i>The New Avengers were on the run in the previous arc from the Superhuman Registration Act (the comics Sokovia Accords for the film fans). When Osborn came to power not only were the "real" Avengers still on the run from the government they had to be on the run from their worst enemies turned into "legitimate" heroes. The Dark Avengers were the main villains throughout most of this run and it helped strengthen my love of those characters. They weren't necessarily polar opposites of the New Avengers as much as they were the same old villains I loved to hate, just in new costumes and given power they should not have had. Needless to say it was incredible to read and feel that the story was unpredictable and so much fun.</div>
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<b><i>ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN</i></b></div>
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If you were to ask me what my favorite Spider-Man story is I'd respond with <i>Ultimate Spider-Man</i>. If you asked me which arc was my favorite I couldn't do it. I might throw out some highlights (which I'll do in a second) but for the most part, this entire run is damn near perfect Spidey stories. What makes it work more than anything is that Spider-Man is secondary to Peter Parker. The book probably should have been called Ultimate Peter Parker because it was his story more than anything. His trials, failures, triumphs, loves, hates, and everything in between. This book kicked off the Marvel Ultimate Universe where all the stories could start over and be set in "the real world." I always felt that <i>USM </i>did it best. Peter felt like a real kid to me. Every issue he was growing, failing, and ultimately learning about how to be a hero. I'm getting a little choked up just talking about it because it means that much to me as a fan. </div>
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<b>HONORABLE MENTIONS:</b></div>
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<b><i>VENOM</i></b></div>
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Aside from his introduction in the <i>Spider-Man </i>animated series in the 90s, I was never a huge Venom fan. I liked the look and everything but the character never really clicked with me. That changed with <i>USM</i>. Just like I said that Peter Parker took on new meaning with this series so did Eddie Brock. Suddenly this character made a lot of sense to me and I loved this arc. It was scary, touching, and all too real. It was one of the first <i>USM </i>stories I ever read and fell instantly in love with it. </div>
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<b><i>CLONE SAGA</i></b></div>
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I know that a lot of older fans cringe at the thought of the "Clone Saga" from the Spider-Man canon. I never read any of it, never cared to as I heard nothing but bad things. My Clone Saga is from <i>USM </i>and let me tell ya - it's pretty frickin awesome. For a good chunk of it, Spider-Man is actually not even in it. Despite being on the covers and the book having his name on it, it's Peter's story. Peter watches as twisted, scary, and strange versions of him start popping up. This story also introduced Ultimate Spider-Woman who is Peter's clone that was changed to a female. Yepp . . . bizarre but done so well that the story never felt out of place for me. Everyone from the Fantastic Four to Nick Fury to the X-Men show up during this story and it never feels crowded or overblown. It's so much fun to read and dig into the weird clones. I just wish they had all stuck around . . . </div>
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<b><i>THE DEATH OF PETER PARKER</i></b></div>
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Oh man . . . this one was rough. Unlike the "main" Marvel Universe, dead was dead in the Ultimate Universe (although there were characters that came back, even Peter). I mean when this story was sold as "the death of Peter Parker." I believed it. I wished it was not true, I prayed it wasn't, tried to tweet to Bendis not to do it, but ya know . . . he did it. He freaking did it. If <i>USM </i>made me a Mark Bagley fan then this story made me a devoted follower of his work. This comic was so heart wrenching and touching. Peter made the ultimate (ha) sacrifice and in the end, died a hero. He made everyone in his life proud to have known him. I could accept Peter's death knowing that he died a hero and everyone he loved was safe. Also I knew that a new Spider-Man was around the corner . . . </div>
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<b>LEGACY CHARACTERS</b></div>
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Two of Bendis's best creations are the Legacy characters of Miles Morales as Spider-Man and Riri Williams as Ironheart. Both characters debuted when their predecessors either died or went missing. They share a lot of similarities with the original Spider-Man and Iron Man but both characters have forged their own destinies and are in it for the long haul. Hell, Miles is even the star of the upcoming animated Spider-Man coming out this fall! </div>
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Some may argue that these characters were created to show more diversity at Marvel and maybe that is true, but I never thought of these characters as marketing gimmicks. They both have unique and compelling stories to tell. Their young age makes them ideal for new readers because, as I said with Peter in <i>USM</i>, they make mistakes and are forced not only to learn from them but to grow up faster than they should have to. I've loved following their adventures and rooting for them. As I said before, they became favorites for me because I thought their choices were unpredictable and made the comics more exciting to read. </div>
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<b><i>SECRET INVASION</i></b></div>
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This one has a bit of a story attached to it. When I got really serious about buying and collecting comic books on a weekly basis I was getting <i>Mighty Avengers </i>and <i>New Avengers </i>way back in 2007! Later that year I decided to move to North Carolina in an attempt to start my life over. As you can imagine, moving 600 miles away is expensive. For a long time I could not afford much of anything so my comics were the first expense to be cut. Several months later, as I worked hard to save money and learned to budget (ugh adulting sucks) I figured I could spare a few bucks for comics again. </div>
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This was right around the time that <i>Secret Invasion </i>was going to start. So I bought the issues. And man oh man I was not disappointed. I felt like the heroes were in over their heads, the villains were going to win (technically they did with <i>Dark Reign</i>), and the Marvel Universe would never be the same! To this day, it remains my favorite Marvel event comic. It wasn't the first one I bought or read, and maybe it's just tied to the nostalgia in my mind, but it was so exciting. Every so often I reread it and get the same feeling of astonishment as when I first read it. </div>
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<b>HONORABLE MENTION:</b></div>
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<b><i>NEW AVENGERS/MIGHTY AVENGERS</i></b></div>
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It wasn't until a few years later I got all caught up on everything that happened during the <i>Secret Invasion </i>story. I got the <i>New/Mighty Avengers </i>collections as a birthday present and dug right into them. In the stories you learn about why the Skrulls want to invade Earth, why they chose their targets, and just how long they've been on Earth and what they've been doing. It forced me to reread other Bendis stories and look at them totally differently. The books were so detailed and exciting I couldn't put them down. When I do my <i>Secret Invasion </i>reread, these editions are always on the list as well. Granted, I understood the main story just fine, but these give it so much more meaning that I can't think of the main story without them. They're just as important and fascinating to me. </div>
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<b><i>ALL NEW X-MEN</i></b></div>
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I have a love/hate relationship with the X-Men. On the one hand, I love the characters so much and they're an important part of my Marvel reading list. On the other hand, every time a writer does an X-Men book they feel the need to create like 28,000 new characters and the books feel so stuffed I lose interest. Lucky for me, when Bendis started his run on <i>All New X-Men </i>that wasn't the case. I mean it happened later, but when it started it was just Beast going back in time and recruiting the past versions of the X-Men to try and set things straight for the team in the present. It was such a cool concept and I love those original Stan Lee X-Men comics. The first couple years of this book remains one of my all time favorites. Bendis is at his best when he writes young characters trying to find their place in the world, which is why I loved <i>USM</i>, Miles and Riri so much. So when I heard he was doing that with the original 5 X-Men my interest was piqued. </div>
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As a side note, sometimes I don't care for an artist until they get on the right book. Stuart Immonen was an artist I had kind of liked but never really followed much. This book made me a fan of his. The way he drew the characters just seemed right and fit the story so well. I'm still impressed by the art in this book years later. Dang . . . I have so much to reread . . . </div>
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<b><i>SPIDER-MEN</i></b></div>
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Now this is one of my all time favorite Spider-Man stories. At the time, Miles was Spider-Man in the Ultimate Universe and Peter was Spider-Man in the 616 universe, as opposed to now where they are both Spider-Man in the 616 Universe. It's . . . ugh . . . complicated . . . But back then it was simpler and a cross dimensional story was awesome and unheard of. The Ultimate Universe had never crossed over with the 616. But two different Spider-Men made it a more interesting story. Peter saw all the differences and could meet his family and friends in the weirdest way. The comic was so much fun and the interactions between the two characters was so awkwardly perfect (as it should have been). Bendis has a knack for writing not just Spider-Man well, but his rogues. Mysterio as the main antagonist in this was pitch perfect. I always liked the character but in this book he became a much more genuine threat. Also, it's fun to see the villain done in by their own hubris and arrogance. Like you get to see it in the book and it's hilarious. The dialogue, interactions, and everything here feels so real to me. I read this story several times over when it first came out. Thinking about it now makes me miss the Ultimate Universe. Although maybe it's coming back based on <i>Spider-Men II</i>? Hmmm . . . . </div>
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<b><i>INFAMOUS IRON MAN</i></b></div>
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Going back to my favorite type of stories being unpredictable ones I have to say what usually falls in that category are the Villains-Trying-To-Redeem-Themselves stories. Like <i>Superior Spider-Man </i>before it, <i>Infamous Iron Man </i>tells the story of none other than Dr. Victor Von Doom trying to become the new Iron Man in Tony Stark's absence. While that premise alone sold me on the comic immediately what kept me coming back was how it served as a great placeholder for a Fantastic Four comic in <i>their </i>absence. Ben Grimm, the Thing, was a main character and in a way, acts as the antagonist of the book. No one really knows what to make of Doom trying to be a hero: the bad guys, S.H.I.E.L.D., Riri, and maybe even Doom himself. </div>
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When Marvel relaunched after <i>Secret Wars, </i>Bendis made his love of Dr. Doom clear by placing him front and center during the first few issues of <i>Invincible Iron Man</i> but who could have predicted that this would be where the story would have gone? Well, maybe some people did but I didn't. Also, Alex Maleev draws Doom like Vincent Cassel.</div>
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I don't know if that's intentional or not but this dude would make a perfect Dr. Doom if they ever try to reboot the film series again. But let's not get into that right now. . . Anyway, this story goes to show that some villains can fit different hero dynamics and it's great to see Dr. Doom squaring off and then trying to become Iron Man. </div>
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<b><i>DAREDEVIL</i></b></div>
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Some writers are really good at writing crazy space adventures. Others are good at gritty crime dramas. Bendis is one of those creative people that can go from a universe spanning insane story like <i>Guardians of the Galaxy </i>to a street level drama like <i>Daredevil</i>. Remember when I said Bendis likes to shake shit up? Well he pretty much shook up Matt Murdock's life beyond repair during his run. Daredevil is one of those great characters that works as a fun loving adventurer like Mark Waid and Chris Samnee's run or as a tortured vigilante struggling to keep his life together like Bendis writes. Truth be told, I got into this run very late in the game. It was coming out as I was collecting but hearing that Murdock's identity was outed seemed like too big of a story for me to wrap my head around. At the time I thought, "That's not OK." Like I said, Bendis will piss you off. Looking back I can't believe I was so dumb. His run on the Daredevil comic is downright magnificent. It's compelling, dramatic, exciting, and heartbreaking. It's exactly what great comics should be. As fun as <i>Ultimate Spider-Man </i>is for it's "coming of age" tales, <i>Daredevil </i>is great a gritty crime drama. It's hard to believe it's the same writer that can go from one to the other so effortlessly but Bendis does it, man. And he does it well.</div>
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<b><i>HOUSE OF M</i></b></div>
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Another late edition to the Comic Junkie collection is <i>House of M </i>story. I don't remember how I came onto it. I think I was just buying anything and everything X-Men/Avengers that I could get my hands on. More than any other comic on this list, this one plays out like a movie to me. While reading it, it feels so fluid that I feel like I'm watching a film. Besides the "Redemption" or "Coming of Age" books that I love, another favorite of mine is definitely "Alternate Universes." This one in particular is one of my favorite alternate universes. Wanda Maximoff, the Scarlet Witch, has given everyone on Earth their heart's desire. Peter is Spider-Man still but loved by the public and media, Captain America is an old man, never frozen during the War, Wolverine is head of S.H.I.E.L.D., and Magneto is the world's most famous mutant and mutants are the dominant species on the planet just like he always wanted. Once the heroes figure out what is going on and remember their own reality they fight to get it back. But it isn't the happy ending you'd expect. The mutant population is decimated, Wolverine regains his memories, Peter is tortured by his alternate life, and, as mentioned before but not explicitly stated in this story, the Skrulls are given an advantage in their Secret Invasion. </div>
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<b><i>AVENGERS</i></b></div>
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Saying that Bendis had a great run on <i>Avengers </i>is an understatement. He wrote something like 200 issues between <i>New, Mighty, Assemble, </i>and every tie in, event, etc. That's pretty impressive on its own but luckily the stories were so exciting and fun that I couldn't wait to read them. Before Bendis got his hands on the book, <i>the Avengers </i>was just another comic for Marvel. Bendis wanted to make it the flagship book that everyone looked up to and took their cue from. Basically, if you only bought one Marvel comic it was going to be <i>Avengers</i>. I tell you what, it worked for me. It seemed like any character could have a shot at becoming an Avenger from Spider-Man to Wolverine to Luke Cage to Jessica Jones to freaking Squirrel Girl. The ranks were wide open and the stories were so much fun to read. </div>
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<b>HONORABLE MENTIONS:</b></div>
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<b><i>INFINITY</i></b></div>
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One of Bendis's talents is taking a C-list villain and making them a genuine threat. During his <i>Avengers </i>runs he took Parker Robbins, the Hood, and made him a really scary villain. At first he was possessed by one of Dr. Strange's villains, Dormammu. When that was taken away, he was desperate to get more power. He found it with the Infinity Gems (or Stones for the movie fans, personally I think Stones is better) and the Infinity Gauntlet. These issues brought the Red Hulk into the books as a hero helping the Avengers track the Gems down before Parker could use them for his evil ways. And gosh oh jeez LOOK at that cover! I had a previous post where I said that I hope that cover comes to life in the <i>Infinity War </i>film or its sequel. I think it will because it's just so cool. Either way, this story was so exciting to me because it was my introduction to the Infinity Gems and their importance in Marvel's history. And now they are movie stars!</div>
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<b><i>THE NEW DARK AVENGERS</i></b></div>
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When it was announced that Norman Osborn and H.A.M.M.E.R. were coming back to torment the Avengers I flipped out. As I said, I loved <i>Dark Avengers </i>so much and missed those characters. Granted, this was a whole new batch of Dark Avengers but the stories were still compelling and fun for me. To Bendis, Norman Osborn shouldn't just be a Spider-Man villain, he should be the antagonist for all of the Avengers. It makes sense to me! The story sort of falls into the "Redemption" category but since it's Norman Osborn and the dude is batshit crazy, it doesn't quite work out for him. Hey, at least he tried!</div>
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<b><i>AVENGERS VS X-MEN</i></b></div>
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Now technically I'm cheating here because Bendis co-wrote this with other great Marvel writers but he did the <i>Avengers </i>tie ins and that's good enough for me to count it. Also it's my blog damn it! </div>
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Anyway, the Hero vs Hero story is a tale as old as time. Comics do it all the time but this one took it up a notch. I found myself sympathizing with Cyclops and his team while rooting for Captain America and the Avengers. Neither side is technically wrong but they're also not right either. It's tough to pick a side. After all, the main goal is to make sure that the Phoenix Force doesn't destroy the Earth. The story took some very interesting and surprising twists including killing off Professor Xavier. I mean that was rough to read. Like I said, Bendis could go from gritty dramas like <i>Daredevil </i>to crazy stories where the heroes are fighting on the moon like <i>Avengers vs X-Men</i>. Bendis makes it look so easy! </div>
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Throughout my life, I find myself following certain writers and their work. Bendis was one of the first that I fell in love with and wanted to pick up almost anything he does/did. When I heard he was leaving Marvel for DC I was so excited. I know we are in for a treat with Superman and his continuation of Jinxworld. But I have to admit that I'm very sad his Marvel days are behind him. I mean . . . maybe he'll go back, but 18 years is a long time at a company and it's safe to say he kicked a lot of ass and took a lot of names during his tenure. While I'm sad he won't be a Marvel writer anymore I'm looking forward to (maybe) 18 years at DC where he can shake things up, piss people off, and tell great stories that put a smile on my face.<br />
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That's me with Brian at New York Comic Con 2011. I remember telling him i felt he was perfect fit for Marvel because their characters were all about people trying to be superheroes while DC was heroes trying to be people. He agreed with me then. 7 and a half years later and I'm excited to see his take on the other side.<br />
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Till Next Time!<br />
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JJ - The Comic Junkie!<br />
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-38343850965880421222017-06-17T15:19:00.002-07:002017-06-17T15:19:37.801-07:00BATMAN RETURNS: 25 YEARS LATER - A COMIC JUNKIE'S RETROSPECTIVE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well . . . I'm old, aren't I? Eh, not really depending on who you ask. But here's the thing - when a movie you love reaches a milestone, it brings on the nostalgia BIG TIME. <i>Batman Returns </i>was released on June 19, 1992. Compared to the original, groundbreaking <i>Batman </i>of 1989 it was met with mixed results. 25 years later and there is still debate on the film. Some call it a masterpiece, others call it a disaster. That could be said of a lot of superhero films . . .<br />
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Times were different back then and the film that was released was one that Tim Burton was excited about. He was able to take the characters in bold, new, unique directions and that's what he always wants from his films/projects. After a quarter of a century and hundreds of views, I've critiqued this film front to back. I'd like to share with you my favorite parts and the things that I think still hold up with this film so many years later. </div>
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<b>MICHELLE PFEIFFER AS SELINA KYLE/CATWOMAN</b></div>
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No one will ever say that Pfeiffer is a bad actress. She's fantastic and gives her all to every role she's in. Selina Kyle is no exception. Her version of Kyle has a great arc throughout the film. She starts off a mousy, meek, underrated secretary (assistant) to corporate tycoon Max Shreck. When she digs too deep, she's cast aside, Shreck thinking that she'll never be missed. Not only does she come back, but she comes back with a vengeance. She gets her revenge on Shreck, goes after the men she wants (Batman and Bruce Wayne), and stands up straight for the things she believes in. Although she's considered a villain in the story, one could argue she's an antihero looking to right the wrongs that have been done to her in her life. She's not just a love interest to Bruce Wayne. Their attraction is mutual and believable but it doesn't define her. She doesn't hate all men, either. She's just trying to get revenge on the ones that she feels wronged her, which just happen to be all the male leads . . . </div>
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Pfeiffer brings a tortured soul to life in a realistic, tragic way. When we first meet Selina we get the feeling she's very unfulfilled in her life. From a guy that rejects her because his psychiatrist suggests it, to an overbearing mother, to a boss that makes her work too hard for too little, she's finally had enough and takes control of her life. And when she has that control? Boy, you better watch out! </div>
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<b>THE LOVE STORY ISN'T FORCED</b></div>
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And can you really even call it a love story? Either way, it doesn't come into the film like a studio mandated contract stipulation. Batman and Catwoman have always had a love/hate relationship throughout their comic book history. My favorite Batman/Catwoman story is <i>Batman: Hush</i>. I've always been of the mindset that Bruce Wayne and Selina Kyle belong together. Maybe in another universe, they find each other without all the tragedy and live happily ever after. However, given both people have an inherent self-destructive nature, they can't help but constantly hurt each other and themselves along the way. </div>
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In this film, the characters first truly interact when Selina has embraced her true self and meets Bruce at Shreck's office. Bruce is instantly infatuated with her. On their first date in Wayne Manor (where Bruce has all his first dates, apparently), she starts to fall for him as well. I think they recognize kindred spirits in each other. Even the next scene shows Selina frantically trying to put on her Catwoman suit while Bruce calmly chooses his Batman armor. They are two sides of the same coin. At the end of the film, Bruce desperately pleads with Selina to come home with him and he'll look after her. She's at first enamored with the idea then rejects it. As much as the other might want it, they can't be together. Selina knows this to be the truth while Bruce has to sadly come to terms with her decision. Hey we've all been there, right? #relationshipssuck</div>
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<b>DANNY DeVITO AS THE PENGUIN</b></div>
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To this day, DeVito's portrayal remains my favorite version of the character. Like Bruce and Selina, Oswald Cobblepot is yet another tortured soul. I mean, hell, all the Batman villains are in some way, shape or form! In <i>Batman Returns</i>, we learn that the wealthy Cobblepot family gave birth to a hideous creature instead of a beautiful baby. They decide to throw this child into the sewer rather than, ya know, raise him and teach him to be a good man. Cobblepot is then raised by the Red Triangle Circus Gang and somehow or another, it's never really explained, turns them into a criminal organization bent on destroying Gotham City. As the film progresses, we learn that Oswald wants to reconnect with society, but only because he wants them to suffer the way he suffered. </div>
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Penguin has a great arc throughout the film. While he never really changes per se, he shows himself to the audience as a great manipulator and puppet master. Penguin emerges as a hero to Gotham City, having "saved" the Mayor's baby and then wanting to run as Mayor to clean up the streets of Gotham City. Of course, he's the one dirtying them up, but the citizens don't realize that right away. Once he's exposed as a fraud, he retreats back to the sewers and tries to exact his revenge on Gotham City. </div>
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DeVito plays the character so well. Just when you're starting to sympathize with him, you realize he's just playing you and you hate him again. It almost works even on Batman! When he's first introduced he says, "I want to find my mom and dad and try to understand why they did what I guess they felt they had to do!" Bruce looks at him and feels sorry for him. Bruce knows what it's like not to grow up with parents. Then he sees Penguin standing next to Max Shreck and then he immediately realizes something is up. While on patrol, Alfred asks him, "Are you concerned with that strange, heroic, Penguin-person?" Batman replies, "I think he knows who his parents are . . . There's something else . . ." Bruce sees through Cobblepot's BS in a heartbeat. It takes some time, but he's able to show the citizens of Gotham that Penguin doesn't just look like a monster - he IS a monster. </div>
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I could go on all day about that greatness! But I'll leave it at that. DeVito nails the character. From cunning manipulator to deranged psychopath and everything in between, he's a villain to remember in the Bat-films. </div>
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<b>A VILLAINOUS ALLIANCE</b></div>
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If there's one thing lots of superhero films are guilty of, it's putting too many villains in one film. Luckily, and maybe I'm in the minority here, I think all the Bat-films have done it in a very unique way. Batman definitely has the best rogues gallery in all of comic bookdom. Any villain that you think can't be redeemed I guarantee some writer somewhere has found a way to make them cool. Every writer/artist has had their own interpretation of the characters. Burton realized that these extreme people would have extreme personalities and capitalized on it. Both are unhinged, but they are still smart people. If they want to defeat Batman, they're gonna have to work together. While their alliance is (believably) fragile, it is real. The film does a good job of setting up why the other hates Batman. In Penguin's case, he's running for mayor and realizes Batman can expose his true nature at any time. With Catwoman, she recognizes that Batman will stop her from wanting to get her revenge on Shreck so she needs an ally to stop him. Also there was the whole . . . throwing her off a building thing. </div>
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These characters may not have interacted much in the comics, but their alliance in the film doesn't feel forced or studio mandated. They're both weird, tortured people looking to stop Batman. And really, that's all the motivation they need . . . </div>
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<b>DANNY ELFMAN'S SCORE</b></div>
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I've mentioned this before but it's worth repeating - Danny Elfman knows how to make a memorable fucking movie score. Every scene in the film is heightened and given new energy by Elfman's brilliant compositions. The music is written in such a way that it's recognizable as Danny Elfman, but it fits each individual character. Batman's theme is instantly recognizable as a dark, brooding, yet heroic theme. Penguin's music sounds like a tragic Circus symphony, and Catwoman's theme is playful, mysterious, and dangerous. When the music comes on, it's a sign that either the hero is coming to save the day or the villain is coming to wreck it. When the music needs to be softer, it is, when it needs to convey an emotion, it does. The music never overpowers the film, it enhances it in every possible way. Movies these days don't do that anymore. I bet you'll instantly recognize Elfman's Batman score but will have a hard time remembering what Iron Man's theme sounded like. It's a sad truth about movies these days. Hopefully, with Elfman doing the <i>Justice League </i>score, we'll start to remedy this oversight. </div>
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<b>TIM BURTON'S INFLUENCE</b></div>
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One of the major complaints about this film is this: "It feels like a Tim Burton movie that just happen to have Batman characters in it." My counter-argument is, "That's a bad thing?" Tim Burton has made some of the weirdest films you've ever seen, yet they stand apart from other filmmakers. He has a really unique vision for his films and it's noticeable in every single frame. Characters like Batman, Catwoman, and the Penguin are head to toe in black and white while the rest of Gotham City is in bright colors. Each of the main characters is shrouded in darkness while the rest of the world is bright, shiny, and fun. However, these "dark" characters are far more interesting. Their worlds have been turned upside down in one way or another. It could be the death of their parents, being rejected by their parents, or being overlooked by the whole world, their worlds are all scary, tragic, and painful. Therefore, their worlds are far more interesting. The only color on Batman's costume is the yellow oval around his chest piece. Catwoman and Penguin have no color on their costumes. Batman retains a little bit of Gotham City with him wherever he goes, but Catwoman and Penguin have none. By the way . . . </div>
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<b>MAX SHRECK: GOTHAM'S LEX LUTHOR</b></div>
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It's easy to dismiss Christopher Walken as a walking meme or an easy impression to show your drunk friends (I've done it). But here's a little bit of truth for ya - Christopher Walken is an Academy Award winning actor (<i>Deer Hunter </i>1979). Nothing against DeVito, Pfeiffer, or even Keaton, but Walken brings some gravitas to this wacky movie. He's the only main character not dressed in a ridiculous costume or make up. His portrayal of Max Shreck is meticulous, conniving, and downright evil. He doesn't care for the citizens of Gotham City. He doesn't even really care about his bottom line. All he cares about is himself. He's going to preserve his own life at all costs. At the beginning of the film, the Red Triangle Circus Gang is looking to kidnap him and he doesn't put up much of a fight when his son steps in on his behalf. Later in the film, he's happy to team up with the Penguin if it means his reputation won't be tarnished (although he's trying to further his own agenda). He kills his secretary (assistant) without a second thought. He drops Penguin as soon as the public turns on him without a shred of remorse. In fact, he just shrugs, "them's the breaks" he's saying with his actions. He's one of the best parts of the film but he's often overlooked because he's not in a garish costume. Which is a shame because he plays arguably the most important role in the film. He's the one that ties all the main Bat-characters together. He's Selina's boss, Penguin's associate, and Bruce Wayne's rival. And he does it without being the Walken stereotype we love to joke about at parties! </div>
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<b>MICHAEL KEATON AS BRUCE WAYNE/BATMAN</b></div>
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Here's the tough one. How do I accurately describe my feelings toward Michael Keaton as Batman without sounding like a raving lunatic and in only a few short sentences. I'll give it a shot! </div>
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As an actor myself, I recognize the want to put on a show. When the audience is eating up your performance you want to give them more, more, more like a Rebel Yell. However, that's not always the way to go. As an actor, you're slaved to your character. Michael Keaton, coming from a comedy background and likely being a "more-more-more" type of performer, understood this. However, he fights against it and gives a performance that can only be described as "less is more". Don't get me wrong - that is in NO WAY an insult. It's probably the highest compliment I can give to him. No offense to the other Bat-actors. They all give great performances in the films that they are in, but in Burton's Bat-films, Keaton is basically playing the "straight" man to the "wacky ensemble." </div>
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His Batman is a silent guardian. He doesn't say much, his actions speak louder than words. In most scenes, he doesn't speak unless provoked. However, with his eyes and his body language, Keaton says a lot without having to say anything at all. Every situation he's in, he seems to have it under control. Even if he is in over his head, it doesn't show. This is the Batman I grew up with. He could get out of any situation with sheer confidence and willpower alone. By the end of the film, he's the figure that the Circus Gang fears most. He's re-established himself as Gotham's protector. Penguin may have put up a good fight, but Batman is the champion.</div>
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It's interesting looking back on this film. I think as a kid I watched it and loved it because it was Batman. Now as an adult, I can watch it knowing who made it, what their motivations were, and what the end product looked like and judge it from there. Based on nostalgia alone, this will remain one of the best Bat-memories I have. But given that I've had 25 years to watch it and love it, I'll this - <i>Batman Returns </i>has aged well and I'll always love it as a weird, unique, exciting Bat-film. </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - The Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-70486862120255855832017-06-11T10:31:00.001-07:002017-06-11T10:31:54.099-07:00ADAM WEST - AN ACTOR, A MAN, A LEGEND, AN INSPIRATION<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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When you hear "Batman" what's the first thing that comes into your mind? For me, it's Danny Elfman's theme and Michael Keaton spreading his wings to take down two punks.<br />
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As I've gotten older, I've come to appreciate almost every single incarnation of Batman in some way, shape or form. Whether it's in the comic books, animation, live action, video games, cosplay, etc I can appreciate the love that everyone has for Batman. </div>
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Confession time - I never considered Adam West to be MY Batman. Michael Keaton and Kevin Conroy will always hold the crown in that regard. Now, having said that, I will say that I used to watch <i>Batman: the Movie </i>from 1966 over and over and over again. I remember being really little and seeing a couple of the original episodes on TV. However, they didn't do reruns of that after a while (I'm pretty sure it was on ABC) and I only had the movie to watch. I wasn't a big fan of the campy tone but I loved any and all things Batman as a kid so I gobbled it up. </div>
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After <i>Batman and Robin</i>, it seemed like demand for Batman was at an all time low. <i>Batman Beyond </i>was on TV and there were reruns of <i>Batman: the Animated Series </i>on Cartoon Network. I felt like I was the only kid that watched the original Batman movies and cartoons. It seemed like none of my friends liked Batman because he wasn't as popular anymore. Then I got to high school and I met a lot of people that loved Batman like I did! I couldn't believe it! We could talk about the movies, the cartoons, and all that jazz. Then <i>Batman Begins </i>came out in 2005 and EVERYONE started to see how awesome Batman was! It was an awesome experience. </div>
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I'm getting a little off track here . . . Let's go back to Mr. West. </div>
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One of my favorite episodes of <i>B:TAS </i>is "Beware the Grey Ghost." In this episode, Gotham City is being terrorized by someone calling himself "the Mad Bomber." Bruce remembers a TV show he watched as a kid called <i>The Grey Ghost</i>. One of the episodes featured a criminal calling himself the Mad Bomber. Bruce can't find any episodes on VHS (it was a different time) so he tracks down the actor, Simon Trent (played by Adam West). Bruce enlists Trent's help in catching the Mad Bomber. Trent is at first afraid and angry with Batman for tracking him down. He later teams up with him, wanting to help stop the Mad Bomber. </div>
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I love acting. I especially love actors that step outside of their comfort zones. Simon Trent / The Grey Ghost is a much different character than Bruce Wayne. If anything, he's probably closer to the real Adam West than anything. He's an out of work, depressed actor. He can't get any roles because every casting director in town thinks of him as The Grey Ghost. He's incredibly frustrated. When Batman approaches him, it annoys him thinking that Batman would come to him. What good can he do? He's just an actor! Trent eventually gives Batman a copy of "the Mad Bomber" episode to get rid of him. Batman, clearly disappointed says, "I used to admire what the Grey Ghost stood for." Trent angrily replies, "I'm not the Grey Ghost!" Batman retorts, "I can see that now."</div>
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Jeez . . . never meet your heroes kids. Anyway! Later in the episode, Batman is in trouble and is rescued by THE GREY GHOST! </div>
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Batman takes Trent back to the Batcave. Trent mentions how it looks like The Grey Ghost's lair. Batman admits that it was by design. He then shows Trent a secret room with lots of Grey Ghost memorabilia. He confesses, "As a kid, I used to watch you with my father. The Grey Ghost was my hero." Trent says, "So it wasn't all for nothing." </div>
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At the end of the episode, The Grey Ghost is back on the public radar and the series is released on home video. Trent is in costume, signing copies of the videos for fans. Bruce Wayne is one of those fans. He has a goofy smile on his face and says, "Please make it out to Bruce." Trent takes the video and signs it casually. Bruce starts to walk away but he turns and says, "You know as a kid I used to watch you with my father. The Grey Ghost was my hero." Trent smiles, obviously recognizing the quote, "Really?" Bruce uses his Batman voice to respond, "And he still is." </div>
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Ok . . . I'm literally choking up saying all this. This episode means a lot to me because as a kid, I was introduced to Batman through my parents. I remember my dad taking my whole family to see <i>Batman Forever </i>and <i>Batman and Robin</i> when they came out. I had big Batman birthdays. My mom loved going to those movies with me and watching them with me on video. </div>
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In a strange way, I think this episode was almost biographical for Adam West. Here he probably thought playing Batman was this one time thing that was fun, profitable, and he could leave it behind. Little did he know that his portrayal of Batman inspired millions of people around the world, some would go on to be famous actors, writers, directors, animators, etc. Batman means so much to so many people. Actors come and go, but the best ones leave behind a legacy. Mr. West was and always will be Batman for an entire generation.</div>
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Over the years, I've come to respect and love what his series did for Batman and his allies and enemies. I bought the series when it was released on Blu Ray and laughed and cheered at every episode. It saddens me so much that Mr. West has left us, but it brings me joy knowing that he'll never be forgotten. </div>
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RIP, old chum. You've earned the rest.</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-22052406336497979822017-05-23T17:10:00.003-07:002017-05-23T17:10:44.536-07:00HEROES ARE ALWAYS NEEDED<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been reported that Zack Snyder has stepped down as director of the upcoming <i>Justice League </i>film following a family tragedy. His daughter, Autumn, committed suicide and Snyder is taking much needed time with his family away from work to heal. My heart goes out to Mr. Snyder. I'm lucky enough to admit that I've never lost a parent, sibling, or child in my lifetime. I can't imagine the pain that comes with that. It's tragic and heart breaking. My thoughts and prayers are with the Snyders at this difficult time. I'm not sure what happened to Autumn, and maybe I don't want to know, but I'd like to share something here that maybe could help someone in the future.<br />
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I'm someone that has suffered from Depression my whole life. Some days it's as mild as just being kind of bummed out for no reason. Other days, it's as severe as not wanting to get out of bed. I know lots of people that suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. Sometimes it's utterly terrifying. Truthfully, the best medicine is laughter. Learning to laugh and make yourself happy. It's exhausting but usually worth it to get through a tough day.<br />
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My depression was at it's worst several years ago when I first moved to North Carolina. I was in a brand new city, a brand new state, a job I had no previous experience with, and worst of all I lived all by myself. At first I was excited to start my new life. Little did I know that a new life is super challenging and more often than not I was completely alone. I had very little money despite working two jobs, all my friends lived 600 miles away, and I was single. My parents lived in the same town and my dad worked in the same office, but it wasn't the same as having peers my age to hang out with, drink with, laugh with, etc. It was a scary time for me.<br />
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Since I didn't have much money, I couldn't afford to get my comics every week. I was upset till I realized I could ask for subscriptions for Christmas! I didn't want to be greedy so I only asked for three (one from each family member) - <i>Batman, Green Lantern,</i> and <i>Justice League</i>. When I had more cash living at home I was getting 10-15 comics a month. I was bummed that I was missing out on other comics but I was happy to get these. <i>Batman</i> was just starting the <i>R.I.P. </i>storyline and <i>Green Lantern </i>was leading up to <i>Blackest Night</i>. I don't remember what happened in<i> Justice League</i> because the quality of that comic kind of went down with changing writers and artists and it wasn't as good. That was a bummer. Nevertheless, I was still happy.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">It was so good!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Don't worry he didn't really die! </span></div>
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After about a year, when I was finally making a little more money at my office job and paid off some of my debts, I decided to go back to buying comics on a weekly basis. I was able to get more than just the three in the mail. I was able to catch up on what the other DC heroes were doing as well as the Marvel ones. I was getting <i>New Avengers, Dark Avengers </i>(which I really miss by the way), <i>Ultimate Spider-Man, Action Comics, The Flash, </i>and a few others that I would pick up randomly. As much as I liked comics when I lived in Erie, I think I fell even more in love with them while I lived in North Carolina. The comics made me feel less lonely and gave me something to look forward to every week. Every Wednesday on my lunch break I would drive to my local store, get my books, and read as many as I could before I had to go back to work. It became a weekly ritual for me. Something to keep me happy and excited.<br />
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It was during this time I started to kind of get to know (so to speak) the different writers and artists on my favorite comics. It was how I figured out that Geoff Johns was my favorite DC writer and Brian Michael Bendis was my favorite Marvel writer. I grew to appreciate their different styles and the different artists that they worked with. I was able to attend Comic Cons in New York City as more than just a passing fan. I could bring books for them to sign, sit through their panels, and even talk to them and gush over their work. As I said, my oldest sister was able to join me at other Cons and we could enjoy the experience even though most of it is just standing in lines for like a year! But I digress . . .<br />
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So what am I trying to say here? What is this about? Well, at a time in my life when I was all alone, scared, depressed, and homesick while trying to make this new place my home, I found hope in comic books. Every week I could dive into new adventures of Batman, Superman, the Avengers, or whoever. Every week I had something to look forward to and be excited about. Every week seemed less sad and more optimistic. Over time, I was making more money at work, went on several dates, made lots of friends, and my outlook on life was better. What helped get me to that better place was my favorite superheroes. I can honestly tell you that those comic books saved my life. Granted, they may not be anything special but having something to look forward to every week was a big step in getting better.<br />
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Maybe I sound like a crazy person with all of that, but it's the truth. It's something I've never really shared with anyone before to be perfectly honest. I know what it's like to feel like there's no reason to live. I know what it's like to feel like no one cares for you and it would be easier just to fade away. It's an awful, all consuming feeling and sometimes it feels like it will never end. But you know what? It does end. It's never too late to make a change, find a new hobby, make new friends, find a new lover, find a new religion or whatever may help you. For me, comic books were companions I had every week to keep me happy when I was sad.<br />
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I hope this post finds someone that needs it. This was my story how I overcame a difficult time in my life with comic books and superheroes. I don't know what your story is but I hope you find it. Because when you look back, you'll be so grateful to whoever or whatever helped pull you out of that funk.<br />
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To anyone that may need it here are a couple of websites dedicated to helping people thinking about suicide and suffering from depression: afsp.org JEDfoundation.org<br />
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Please get help if you need it. Those comics not only helped save me but they inspired me to be a better person. To be a hero just like Batman, Spider-Man, Superman, etc.<br />
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Now you know a little bit more about me! It's hard to talk about this stuff sometimes but I like to share it here because this blog means a lot to me and I like putting my thoughts and feelings out there for the world to see! I hope this helps someone who may need it!<br />
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Till Next Time!<br />
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JJ - The Comic Junkie!For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-14744591094009548032017-02-21T19:27:00.004-08:002017-02-21T19:27:51.997-08:00THE FLASH - MORE SPEEDSTERS! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One thing about <i>The Flash </i>that's undeniable is that, for a TV budget, the special effects are outstanding. Between Barry, Kid Flash, Gorilla Grodd, King Shark, and the other various speedsters, villains, etc the show proves that no villain is too big or too small. One area of expertise that the VFX guys have nailed is the speedsters. It started with Barry then we got the Reverse Flash, Zoom, Jay Garrick, Trajectory, Kid Flash, Rival, Jesse Quick, Savitar and others I'm probably forgetting. I probably named them all . . .<br />
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Anyway! DC Comics is not short of any speedsters. There's ones from the future, the past, alternate Earths, I mean it's crazy! <i>The Flash </i>hasn't been shy about using these characters and tweaking their stories as they see fit.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Case in point . . . </span></div>
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As I've mentioned before, I rarely stop thinking about these shows on the CW. Mainly because I think they're wonderful and it's the type of stuff I wish I had had as a kid. There are still tons of stories that can be told and many more speedsters that can be introduced on the show. I'd like to run through (pun intended) a list of my favorite speedsters that have not yet made an appearance. </div>
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<b>REVERSE-FLASH aka DANIEL WEST</b></div>
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He's one of the more recent additions to the canon, and might actually be retconned with <i>Rebirth </i>now that I think about it, but he was a great character. Daniel West was the son of William West, brother to Iris and uncle to Wally. His mother died during childbirth and his father never let him forget it. He grew up under the abusive nature of his father. While Iris grew up and rose above that trauma, Daniel did not. He grew up angry and spent most of his adult life in prison. After an accident gave him super speed, he decided to go back in time and kill his father to prevent the trauma that turned him into a criminal. </div>
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While Daniel is a great character, there's no denying that he has a great visual. His costume seems to be morphing around him and can even come off as projectiles to hurt the Flash. Granted, it's too late to tell a "long lost brother" story with Daniel, since that arc was given to Wally, but there's still room for this particular West family member. He could be Wally's doppelganger from another Earth, perhaps Earth 2? He could be Joe's brother which could work because we don't know much about Joe's parents or family. Or maybe if the writers are lazy enough he could just be another long lost brother, but I wouldn't bet on that considering the writers are better than that on <i>The Flash</i>. Either way, this version of the Reverse Flash offers a much different visual style than we've seen before. He's got the tragic backstory, now we just need him to come wreak havoc on Central City! </div>
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<b>GODSPEED aka AUGUST HEART</b></div>
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The most recent addition to Barry's Rogues Gallery, even though he's not a Rogue . . . It's complicated, Godspeed is really August Heart, a detective with the Central City Police. He has one of the most interesting backstories of any of the Barry's villains. He was the only witness to the accident that made Barry into the Flash. He was in Barry's lab trying to obtain evidence of his brother's murder. Unfortunately, the lightning strike destroyed all of the evidence and the suspected killer was set free. Years later, a Speed Force storm hit Central City and August was one of the people affected by it. At first, he posed himself as an ally to the Flash but was secretly the dark vigilante known as Godspeed. He got revenge on his brother's killer but it did little to satiate his new bloodlust. He ended up killing several other people affected by the Speed Force. </div>
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Godspeed was the first new Rogue Barry fought during DC's <i>Rebirth </i>launch last summer. Again, he's another character with a great visual that would look really cool racing next to the Flash on TV. Plus, assuming the producers and writers don't change his story too much, he has the added benefit of being connected to Barry right from the beginning. Although sometimes this type of story is hard to swallow, if done right it could be interesting. They could easily make August a part of Barry's past. Let's say he was in a coma but instead of just nine months like Barry, he's actually been in the coma for years. He comes out of it, realizes his brother's murderer has gotten away with it, and snaps. That's definitely within the realm of possible storylines we could see on the show. In fact, I'm hoping it's what they go with for season 4! </div>
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<b>IMPULSE aka BART ALLEN</b></div>
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Bart Allen is Barry Allen's grandson from the future. There's no real back story other than that! He came back from the future to fight alongside his grandpa in the present. He started off as Impulse but later became Kid Flash when Wally became the Flash and then eventually the Flash, then he died, then he came back to life as Kid Flash again. COMIC BOOKS!<br />
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My fondest memories of Bart Allen were from Geoff Johns's run on <i>Teen Titans</i>. By then he had graduated to Kid Flash. He was a great character and a lot of fun to read. When he was killed off I was very upset. Luckily, Johns must have felt the same way and brought him back. His origin seems to have been changed somewhat since the New 52 which bugs me. However, that may get rectified soon enough with <i>Rebirth </i>making changes like bringing back characters and, at least somewhat, retconning their origins.<br />
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I'm hoping he'll come into <i>the Flash </i>in the near future. I have a sneaking suspicion that due to Barry seeing his own future, albeit only six months from now, that we're on the way to him seeing much further on and possibly even encountering Bart. I think that would be a great story and hilarious to see a young Bart calling 26-27 year old Barry "grandpa." With season 4 officially announced I'm sure we'll see Bart sometime in the future (pun intended).<br />
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<b>JOHNNY QUICK aka BARRY ALLEN (from Earth 3)</b></div>
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I've been banging this particular drum for quite a while now so I won't get super into all the details but I will say it again - THIS NEEDS TO HAPPEN.</div>
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Johnny Quick is an evil Barry Allen from an alternate Earth. He's just as fast as the Flash but for as good as the Flash is Johnny is bad. I truly think that this character needs to end up on the show and I can't stress enough that Grant Gustin should play him. With the characters travelling through the multiverse like all the fuckin time, this story is not out of the realm of possibilities. Maybe the next crossover could include the Crime Syndicate with evil versions of each of our heroes. Or Johnny could find his way to Earth 1 and mess up Barry's reputation. A similar story was done on <i>Smallville </i>with Clark switching places with Ultraman. It was one of my favorite stories from <i>Smallville </i>and I'm a little surprised it hasn't happened yet on any of the <i>Arrow</i>verse shows. However . . . I'm sure it will . . . Maybe . . . Hopefully. </div>
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By the way, in the <i>Smallville </i>version Tom Welling played the evil Clark and was believably a very different version of the character. I have no doubt Grant Gustin is capable of doing the same thing :) </div>
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<b>THE FLASH aka WALLY WEST </b></div>
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But JJ, you may be thinking, <i>the Flash </i>already has a Wally West! What on Earth would they need another one for? I hear you but I have a pitch here:</div>
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During last summer's <i>DC Universe Rebirth </i>story, it was revealed that the original Wally West was trapped in the Speed Force and was desperate to escape and warn the heroes of Earth that a great threat was coming. We assume this great threat is Dr. Manhattan and/or the other characters from the <i>Watchmen </i>universe. Barry was able to pull Wally out of the Speed Force and Wally was finally able to warn someone and reveal that time had been taken away from them. Basically, after <i>Flashpoint</i>, some unknown force (again probably Dr. Manhattan) had meddled with time in an attempt to weaken the heroes of Earth. Wally is one of the few characters that actually remembers the DC Universe pre-new 52. </div>
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OK, here's the pitch:</div>
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As was revealed during the season finale of <i>The Flash </i>in season 1, the characters were all living in an alternate reality due to the Reverse Flash killing Barry's mom. We've never heard of that story ever again. The only glimpses of it were from the holographic future newspaper the fake Wells (real Eobard Thawne) used to look at in his Time Vault.</div>
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That paper was from April 2024, ten years after the season started. Let's say something similar happened where everything is now changed in the <i>Arrow</i>verse and there's another Wally West lost to the Speed Force. He finally finds a way to communicate with Barry and Barry starts to remember his life where his father was never sent to prison and his mother wasn't murdered. With hints like "Red skies vanish" and talk of a "Queen Consolidated-Wayne Tech" merger in the paper, there's clearly some story opportunities there. I would love to see this revisited as opposed to just referred to as a future event. Because let's face it, it comes from a future where Barry as the Flash vanished chasing Eobard Thawne. I know that technically that Barry was erased from the timeline, per the aforementioned season 1 finale, but so was Eobard and look at him! He's causing trouble for the Legends on their show! It might sound like a long shot but I truly think that this particular story and that timeline should be revisited. </div>
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These are my suggestions for my favorite speedsters making their way to <i>The Flash</i>. The show so far has done an excellent job of telling great stories with these characters. I have no doubt that most, if not all, of the characters I mentioned here will be included at some point during the show's run (pun intended). Hopefully they'll take my suggestions and let me write an episode or two! Ya never know . . . </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-51075994336553926252017-02-15T12:11:00.002-08:002017-02-15T12:11:21.514-08:00SUPERGIRL - INFINITE CRISIS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On the CW, four DC superhero shows are out there telling really cool stories. On <i>Arrow, </i>there is the gritty crime drama, <i>The Flash </i>deals with metahumans and meta-threats, <i>Legends of Tomorrow </i>is the wacky time travel show, and <i>Supergirl </i>deals with aliens and strange visitors from other planets. Basically, we get the best of all these different comic book stories on a weekly basis. It's pretty exciting! The best part, at least to me, is that for as much as these shows have done, there is still a lot more that they can cover. We've seen the Multiverse, the future, the past, alternate timelines, and even the big man himself:<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">So dreamy . . . </span></div>
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These are all things I thought I'd never get to see during a live action TV series. All of these shows, while crafting their own stories, have remained true to the spirit of the DC Comics that inspired them. Since this has been going on, it's made me wonder - what's next? There are unconfirmed, but probably true, reports of Booster Gold being the next DC hero on TV along with the usual crop of lesser known heroes and villains popping up across all the shows on right now. </div>
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Recently, I reread one of my favorite comics written by my main man Geoff Johns, <i>Infinite Crisis</i>. When the story opens, the Trinity of Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman are barely speaking to each other, the Justice League and Society have disbanded, Superboy unwillingly turned against the Teen Titans, Magic is in disarray, there's an intergalactic war, and the villains seem more unified than the heroes! It's total chaos man! </div>
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There were five characters that were at the center of this event - Superman and Lois Lane from Earth 2, Alexander Luthor from Earth 3, Superboy from Earth Prime, and Power Girl from our Earth, later revealed to be the Supergirl from Earth 2. They were all survivors from <i>Crisis on Infinite Earths</i>. They lived in a safe space created by Alexander to protect them from being erased from existence. After seeing how disparate the world has become, Superman decides to break them out and try to bring his Earth back. It's later revealed that Alex and Superboy have been secretly sneaking out of their sanctuary to rearrange the universe so that they create their own perfect Earth. It's a pretty wacky, out there type of story but it's also super awesome and a little trippy. I highly recommend it to anyone that loves to read stories where the heroes are forced to rise above tragedy.<br />
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While I was reading the comic I couldn't help but think about <i>Supergirl</i>. It occurred to me that she has traveled through different dimensions like the Phantom Zone and to Earth 1 during the last crossover.<br />
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While it may be a bit of a stretch, I think it would be really cool to incorporate elements of <i>Infinite Crisis </i>on <i>Supergirl</i>. We've had their version of Superman, but it would be really cool to see what would happen with different versions of each character. An older, wiser Superman, a seemingly friendly but still manipulative Alex Luthor, a rash, impulsive, and dangerous Superboy, and Power Girl, Kara's doppelganger from another Earth. I'd love to see these characters make their way to <i>Supergirl </i>season 3 or maybe even the next crossover. Let's examine each character and what they could bring to <i>Supergirl </i>and the DC-CWverse in general.<br />
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<b>SUPERMAN OF EARTH 2 - KAL L </b></div>
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On Earth 2, Superman was the first and best of all the heroes. His story is just like the Superman story we know - hailed from Krypton, raised by the Kents, fights for Truth, Justice, yadda yadda yadda. At the beginning of <i>Infinite Crisis</i>, Kal believes that during the last Crisis they rescued the wrong Earth and wants to work to save his Earth, He also believes that if he saves his Earth that Lois's health will be restored. He's later convinced by Earth 1's Trinity that there is no such thing as a perfect Earth because a perfect Earth wouldn't need a Superman. He decides to fight with the Justice League against a rogue Superboy-Prime. He dies stopping Superboy and is able to rest in peace with his beloved Lois. </div>
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I think an older Superman with a mysterious agenda would be the perfect way to surprise the characters and the audience. Earth 2 Superman was my favorite character during <i>Infinite Crisis </i>because he represented the old DC Comics but he didn't feel outdated. His arc was really well done in the story. As with most portrayals of Superman, he wants nothing more than to save the world and bring the light to those in darkness. He learns that darkness is a part of life and that sometimes the darkness wins. However, it's never too late to find the light again. That's what Superman is all about.</div>
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Plus, it's hard to see in the image I shared, but his costume is hilarious. The sleeves look like my grandpa's sweater. Ha ha . . . I love it.</div>
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<b>POWER GIRL - KAREN STARR (KARA ZOR L)</b></div>
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For many years, DC didn't know how to explain Power Girl's presence in the comics. She seemed to have all of Superman's powers but Kryptonite didn't really affect her. She was given a few different origin stories but none of them seemed to stick. It wasn't until <i>Infinite Crisis </i>that she was finally given a backstory. She was actually one of the few survivors of the original <i>Crisis on Infinite Earths</i>. She had literally fallen through the cracks in reality and therefore her memories were wiped. Kal comes to her and shows her the truth - she's Kara Zor L, his cousin from their version of Krypton. He and Lois had raised her like a daughter and she became a hero on Earth 2. She finally figured out where she belonged and wanted to work with Superman to save his Earth and hers. However, she was betrayed by Alex and Superboy-Prime and used to bring back the multiverse for Alex's weird experiments. I mean it's cool, it's comic book stuff, but it was weird. Alex is weird.</div>
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Power Girl is a character that I was always hoping to see on the CW at some point. The producers said that they had thought of introducing her, played by Melissa Benoist, during one of the shows while <i>Supergirl </i>was on CBS. I think now that <i>Supergirl </i>is on the CW where she belongs, there is still room for his idea. It's not out of the realm of story ideas that Power Girl is the Supergirl of a different Earth that either Kara or even the Flash could travel to. Heck, the Justice Society was in <i>Legends of Tomorrow</i>! What's to say she wasn't a member on our Earth back in the 40s? Either way, I think she's a great character that should make an appearance and meet her doppelganger. </div>
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<b>ALEXANDER LUTHOR</b></div>
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Alexander Luthor, Jr. is the son of Alexander Luthor, the only hero on Earth 3. Earth 3 is run by the Crime Syndicate of America, evil versions of the Justice League. When the original <i>Crisis on Infinite Earths </i>happened, Earth 3 was destroyed but Alexander was saved by his parents to help fight the Anti Monitor. He was the one that created the safe "heaven" (pocket dimension) that Kal, Lois, Superboy-Prime, and himself lived in before the events of <i>Infinite Crisis</i>. He seemed to be a friend to Kal and Power Girl but later revealed that his plan was not to bring back Earth 2, but to create his own perfect world. He says that while Lois and Kal were very kind to him he felt that when a Luthor stands next to a Superman they would "always be at odds." </div>
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Alexander didn't survive the events of <i>Infinite Crisis</i>, which was a real shame because he was actually one of the best characters in it. True he shared a lot of similarities with our version of Lex but he was far more powerful and arguably, much smarter. I think if <i>Supergirl </i>were to introduce this version of Lex they could have their cake and eat it too. They could have an actual Lex Luthor on the series but it wouldn't necessarily be the "real" Lex Luthor. In the same way that Tyler Hoechlin's Superman could give fans the Superman they knew and loved if they were disappointed with the film version, Alex Luthor could do that for those fans as well. That gold armor might be tough to replicate on their budget, but then again it could be really awesome! Either way, I'd love to see Alexander cross over to the real world instead of just the comics. </div>
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<b>SUPERBOY-PRIME - CLARK KENT</b></div>
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Ah, Superboy-Prime . . . one of DC's best characters if for no other reason than he's a parody of angry fans and 90s themed over the top villains. He's originally Clark Kent from Earth-Prime where there are no superheroes. All the superheroes we know exist in comic books but there are no real life heroes. He grows up as Clark Kent, a normal boy that grew up reading those comics. One day, his powers are activated and he becomes Superboy, the only hero on Earth-Prime. After the Anti-Monitor's attack he's the only survivor of Earth-Prime. He also grows increasingly frustrated and restless at the state of the world he and the other heroes decided to save. He decides to confront Earth's new Superboy, Conner Kent, and ends up attacking him and killing a few Teen Titans. He's then trapped in the Speed Force by Wally West, Bart Allen, Jay Garrick, and even a few speedsters from the past. Eventually, he escapes and tries to set off a new Big Bang by blowing a hole through the planet Oa. He's stopped by Kal and Superman and the Green Lantern Corps. Before the New 52, Superboy-Prime came back a few times, usually under Geoff Johns pen like in <i>Sinestro Corps War </i>and <i>Final Crisis: Legion of Three Worlds</i>. </div>
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While the character isn't exactly my favorite, I would love to see him on <i>Supergirl</i>. We've seen rogue Kryptonians but we've never see an out of control Superboy with all the powers of Superman and Supergirl but none of their morals. It's a life lesson we all know well, "With great power comes great responsibility." I'd love to see that type of story unfold on <i>Supergirl</i>. It would give the writers an excuse to troll their fans a little bit by poking fun at them but also it would be a fun character to see brought to life in all his obnoxious glory. </div>
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<i>Infinite Crisis </i>was the first DC event book I ever read. I learned so much about the history of the characters and the multiverse in general. The story blew my mind and rereading it so many years later as made me excited to know that DC is attempting to bring back that sense of legacy that was lost during the New 52. These four characters were so important to the story and I think they definitely have a place on the CW with <i>Supergirl</i>. </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-7239153463228580862017-02-08T16:36:00.002-08:002017-02-08T16:36:51.463-08:00SUPERGIRL - THE COMIC BOOK SHOW AMERICA NEEDS TO SEE RIGHT NOW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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You know what's great about <i>Supergirl</i>? It's not afraid to be progressive in a time when the world seems to hate progress. I don't like discussing politics on this forum because it's not my area of expertise but also because I prefer to keep this blog positive and fun.<br />
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In my opinion, it certainly feels like America might be taking a few backwards steps in terms of progress. When I think about what we're going through as a country I think about <i>Supergirl. </i><i>Supergirl </i>is able to hide touchy topics under the banner of outer space aliens and fun adventures, but it's tackling them nonetheless.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Just cuz it looks like a monster doesn't mean it IS a monster</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Although this one actually is)</span></div>
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One of the things that <i>Supergirl </i>does so well is tell the story of being a hero in difficult times. It's one of the things that Superman has always stood for. It's encouraging to see that the <i>Supergirl </i>TV series is equally as interested in building up a quality hero in trying times rather than deconstructing the hero. The hero is challenged each and every week, but a lot of the stories that have been done this year have felt much more topical than ever before. I'd like to throw out some specific examples I noticed that struck a chord with me.<br />
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<b>A PRESIDENT WILLING TO ACCEPT ALIENS</b></div>
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America has always been a country of immigrants. People from all over the world have come to our country hoping to start a new life or build a better life than where they came from. That's how America was founded in the first place. It's a wonderful dream and America has always been synonymous with immigration. <i>Supergirl </i>took that real world notion just a step further and included immigrants from other planets and other galaxies. Most of these immigrants want nothing more than to just live on Earth peacefully and go about their business unnoticed, such as the case with M'Gann M'Orzz (Miss Martian). </div>
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However, just like in real life, there are people that come to this country that want to start trouble. They either want to spread fear and hate or prove that they are the superior race. Their logic is flawed and dangerous, but it's loud. Unfortunately, what one group of radicals does tends to override the quiet or otherwise good that the other immigrants are doing. Like I said, they're loud and therefore get more attention. Fear spreads fast and then it turns into hate. We see it every day on the news and social media. These are hot button topics in today's world. There's talk of a ban, a wall, and general hate crimes just because a handful of a certain people are causing trouble. </div>
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In <i>Supergirl, </i>the President, played by Lynda Carter, understands that a few radicals does not mean an entire race is bad. She recognizes that there are more good aliens than there are bad ones. There's a great conversation where J'Onn talks about understanding fear and hate not only as a Martian but as an African American. It was a line that might get over looked but truthfully it struck a chord with me. I liked that the show was willing to discuss real life racism. These characters are not immune to real life problems outside of fighting alien threats and crossing different dimensions. It shows that the producers and writers, just like the comic books have always done, are willing to tackle real life issues thinly disguised as fantastic adventures. </div>
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In the show, the President is going to sign a bill allowing for alien immigrants to come to Earth peacefully, but she's opposed by a radical group of humans, Cadmus, that believe all aliens are dangerous and shouldn't be allowed on Earth. It's similar to what's happening in America right now, except it's our real life President that is less accepting and wants to close off borders. One could argue that he's just looking out for American safety and security, a noble notion, another could argue he's going about it the wrong way. Either way, it's interesting to me that <i>Supergirl </i>is willing to have a similar discussion in a very positive, respectful way. </div>
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<b>COMING OUT OF THE CLOSET </b></div>
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Homosexuality has always been a hot button topic. Truthfully, I don't know why. I've met many gay, lesbian, bisexual people in my life, some in my family, and it's never impacted how I thought of them as a person. I've met nice, mean, annoying, friendly, quiet, angry, happy, etc gay people just like I've known straight people that were nice, mean, annoying, friendly, quiet, angry, happy, etc. The simple truth of the matter is that their lifestyle is not much different from anyone else's. The difference is that they are a minority and therefore suffer unwarranted hate and discrimination. As I said, I don't understand the hate/discrimination, I'm not offended by their lifestyle, but people like to make other people's choices and lives their business (especially when it has no effect on them). </div>
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<i>Supergirl </i>has been praised for its depiction of a woman coming out of the closet in a very realistic, respectful way. Kara's adopted sister Alex, met a NCPD detective named Maggie Sawyer, an out of the closet lesbian, and started to develop feelings for her. This led Alex down an emotional and painful journey inside herself where she started to come to terms with the fact that she wasn't "weird" or "wrong" for never focusing on a relationship, but on work instead, she just wasn't being honest with herself about who she really was. I was very impressed by the decision to have Alex come out of the closet. While it's not a new concept to have a main character have a major revelation like this (think Willow from <i>Buffy the Vampire Slayer</i>), it is still a hot button topic and a brave decision from the producers and the actor, Chyler Leigh, to go through with it. </div>
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To me, the important part of the revelation was Kara's reaction. For a moment, she saw her sister as a totally different person and that scared her. Kara had to come to terms with Alex's struggle and learn to accept that her sister was the same person she's always been, gay or straight. Alex has accepted who she is now and is a much happier person. Kara sees that and it's made their relationship stronger. This particular story has given the characters a stronger arc and more to do rather than discuss Kara's love life, the alien of the week, or how much their mother bugs Alex sometimes. Alex has much more dimension to her now and it's strengthened the overall show.<br />
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<b>RACISM - GREEN VS WHITE</b></div>
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I mentioned before about how easily hate and fear can be spread by a few radicals. In the case of J'Onn J'Onnz and the other Green Martians, the radicals are the majority and have all but wiped out the Green Martians. J'Onn finds a young woman claiming to be a Green Martian named M'Gann M'Orrz. It's not until a few episodes later he discovers the truth that she is actually a White Martian that has defected from her people. She's come to Earth to start over and repent for her crimes. J'Onn is furious when he discovers who she really is, claiming that all White Martians are monsters and killers. He locks her up in the DEO simply because she's a White Martian and refuses to acknowledge her as anything but a monster. In the most recent episodes, M'Gann was under psychic attack and fell into a coma. Alex was able to convince J'Onn to enter her mind and rescue her. Once he saw her for who she really was, he began to accept her and even love her like he loved his family back on Mars. She helped him realize that not all the White Martians were evil. This past episode, <i>The Martian Chronicles</i>, she decided to leave Earth and find other White Martians that were compassionate to the Green like herself. </div>
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Comic books have always tackled social commentary in the most colorful way possible. Luckily the TV shows and films lately have followed that trend. Whether it's a corrupt, deranged man running for political office like in <i>Gotham </i>or the racial tension shown in <i>Supergirl, </i>these shows aren't afraid to hold up a mirror to real life. J'Onn is quick to dismiss M'Gann simply because she's a different Martian from himself and his experience with White Martians was never pleasant. He's never known a White Martian to be kind and compassionate. He assumes they are all evil and will always be his enemy. It's not until he literally steps inside her mind that he realizes she's a good person. If only we could all be so lucky to have that experience in real life. </div>
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I found J'Onn and M'Gann's story very touching. In fact, it was my favorite subplot from this season so far. Although it's being told with alien characters, you can't deny that there is truth to the story. How many Muslims, African Americans, Latinos are the victims of hate crimes and wrongful persecutions simply because they are not white? It's a sad fact. And yes, there is racism toward white people as well, but it's nothing compared to what other ethnicities suffer on a regular basis. In J'Onn's case he believes his racism is justified, after all he literally watched his family die at the hands of White Martians. There are similar stories in our real world. Look at 9/11! A radical group of terrorists were responsible for death and destruction. However, those men do not represent all of Islam. Just like in the show where J'Onn learns to accept a White Martian as his friend, there were reports of New Yorkers rallying against President Trump's ban at JFK international airport. These were the people most affected by 9/11 and those Islamic radicals but they know the difference between the radicals and the men and women that only want to spread peace. That's heartwarming to me because it shows that there are good people in our world that understand the difference between labeling an entire religion and race as dangerous and the good people that are negatively affected by the racism. </div>
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Politics is not my strong suit. I admitted that up front. However, I do see America in a decline due to hate and fear. My goal here is to spread positivity, excitement, and fun to my readers. I do believe that love trumps hate, but it's a lot harder to love. Don't get me wrong, I get where the fear comes from but it doesn't excuse violence and hate being spread across the world. That's one of the reasons I love <i>Supergirl </i>so much. The show is all about hope and courage in the face of trying times. Kara Zor El is an excellent role model for all of us to look up to. She's brave, kind, compassionate, but most of all she's a woman that is tested time and time again. She could easily turn to hate but she chooses to love and protect everyone that needs her. She's the hero that we all need right now and I can't wait to see where the show goes next! </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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<br />For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-56965572227081344412017-01-19T17:15:00.003-08:002017-01-19T17:15:59.398-08:00FAN CASTING THE DC EXTENDED UNIVERSE (AGAIN)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Whether we like it or not, Warner Bros and DC Entertainment plan to make a boatload more films. While we've had some surprises like <i>Gotham City Sirens, </i>a <i>Deadshot </i>spin off, and most recently a <i>Black Adam </i>solo film there have been the usual suspects like <i>Aquaman, the Batman, </i>and of course <i>Justice League 2 </i>to keep fans excited.<br />
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Everyone has their opinion on who would make a great Batman or Superman or Joker or whatever. I've written a couple of articles giving my two cents on who would be great in a <i>Batman </i>film and a <i>Justice League Dark </i>film. Today, I'm going to throw out just some random thoughts on different characters that could appear throughout the DCEU. Let's dive right in, shall we?<br />
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<b>EMMA ROBERTS as POISON IVY</b></div>
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There are a lot of beautiful young women out there in Hollywood and let's face it, that's sort of the number one quality one would be looking for with Poison Ivy. Ivy has to be the most beautiful, sexiest, deadliest woman in the room. Her whole reputation is built around trying to defeat men and allow plants to rule the world. While it would be easy to cast a Megan Fox, who is very attractive, but I think Ivy demands a certain gravitas that Fox couldn't provide. Ivy's not only beautiful, she's a genius. She doesn't even need to use her pheromones to trick men to do her bidding. She can manipulate them herself. </div>
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I think Roberts is an actor that could easily own any room she's in. Yes, Roberts is very beautiful but she's also very smart and has the ride shade of darkness in her that could make her a formidable opponent to Ben Affleck's Dark Knight. From <i>Scream 4 </i>to <i>American Horror Story </i>I have no doubt she would be an amazing Poison Ivy. </div>
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<b>DIEGO LUNA as BANE</b></div>
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Bane is not only one of Batman's toughest opponents, he's also been a member of the Secret Six and the Suicide Squad. His intellect is rivaled only by Batman. He's a master strategist as well as fierce fighter. He came to Gotham with the sole purpose of wearing Batman down and beating him and he did exactly that. I'd love to see more of the classic Bane in an upcoming DCEU film and I think Luna would be a good fit. </div>
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Luna impressed the hell out of me during <i>Rogue One</i>. He had to play leader, follower, rebel, as well as a man willing to do anything to get the job done. I think Bane could showcase a little more than what we were given in <i>Rogue One</i>. Luna would have to be a leader and a rebel but also, if he were to be cast in a <i>Suicide Squad </i>sequel, he'd have to be a follower and a team player. He played that role well in <i>Star Wars </i>but with Bane he'd be able to have more of a reluctant antihero. I think he could definitely pull it off. </div>
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<b>ANNA KENDRICK as BARBARA GORDON / BATGIRL</b></div>
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Here's a fact that will blow your mind - there hasn't been a live action Barbara Gordon/Batgirl since the 1960s Adam West <i>Batman </i>series. Think about it! There's been cartoons but the last time we got Batgirl in a live action Batman film was <i>Batman and Robin </i>and that was Barbara Wilson (for some reason). </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The less said about it the better . . . </span></div>
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Barbara is one of the absolute best superheroes in all of comics. She was never Batman's sidekick. She started out a crimefighter in her own way, not trying to impress Batman or anyone else. She's a great fighter, brilliant detective, and believes in making Gotham City safe for everyone. When she was unable to be Batgirl, she became Oracle and became an invaluable member to the Justice League and heroes around the world. Once she was able to be Batgirl, she immediately took back to the streets of Gotham to keep her neighborhood safe. She's an inspiration to many young women and one of my personal favorite heroes. </div>
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Kendrick joked not too long ago about wanting to play Robin in the upcoming solo <i>Batman </i>film. While she would be a great Carrie Kelly, I personally think she'd be a much better Barbara Gordon. Kendrick has the right amount of spunk, attitude, and wit to stand up to not only Ben Affleck's Batman but JK Simmons' Jim Gordon. I think Batgirl is a strong enough character to anchor her own film, otherwise I'd love to see her debut in the <i>Gotham City Sirens </i>film fighting Poison Ivy, Catwoman, and Harley Quinn. Kendrick definitely has my vote for Barbara Gordon. </div>
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Ok that's enough Bat-characters! Moving on!</div>
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<b>MATTHEW MCCONAUGHEY as GREEN ARROW</b></div>
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At this point, it's sort of sacrilegious to think of any actor other than Stephen Amell playing the Green Arrow. However, since Ezra Miller was cast as the movie Flash, I think we've all been wondering when and if WB would cast someone as Green Arrow. </div>
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Truth be told, the Oliver Queen in the comics is a lot different than the one in <i>Arrow</i>. In the comics, Queen's mission is to sort of "stick it to the man." He embraces the Robin Hood role of stealing from the rich to give to the poor. In the comics, he's a loud mouth, right wing conservative, often butting heads with the other DC heroes. He tries to be the voice for the disenfranchised and needy. He works to make sure "the man" doesn't step on the "little guy." Truthfully, he's probably the hero we need to see most.</div>
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I think McConaughey would be a great fit for the character. True, he's a bit older, but it's hard to think of another actor that could give Queen the range he needs to embody on film. McConaughey has given some powerhouse performances lately from <i>Interstellar </i>to <i>Dallas Buyers Club. </i>He's not just a pretty face, he's got plenty to offer as an actor. Plus, McConaughey is still in fantastic shape. And not that this is a requirement or anything but damn it if he doesn't LOOK just like that Green Arrow pic above! </div>
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<b>C THOMAS HOWELL as EOBARD THAWNE / THE REVERSE FLASH</b></div>
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Eobard Thawne is one of DC's absolute best villains. A scientist from the future, he became obsessed with the Flash and wanted desperately to recreate the event that created the Flash. Once he accomplished that, he set out to travel through time and meet his hero. Upon learning that his hero was just an ordinary man named Barry Allen, Thawne kind of lost his mind. He became the Flash's greatest enemy. He went through time torturing Barry and eventually ended up killing Barry's mother! He's one sick mofo! </div>
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On TV, Tom Cavanagh and Matthew Letscher have played Thawne and in my opinion did the character justice. Letscher is currently on <i>Legends of Tomorrow </i>as part of the Legion of Doom. There's been no word yet if the Reverse Flash is going to make an appearance in the <i>Flash </i>movie or a <i>Justice League </i>film, but if he were I would cast Howell in a heartbeat. If you're wondering why, look no further than his guest appearances on <i>Criminal Minds </i>as The Reaper. The Reaper was a serial killer that loved to torture police. His last victim was Hotchner's wife before being beaten to death by Hotch himself. It was one of the best arcs <i>Criminal Minds </i>has ever done. I was hoping that when the <i>Flash </i>series was announced that Howell would be cast. After all, he does have some experience having played the Reverse Flash in the animated <i>Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox</i>. Obviously, he was not cast but he still has my vote for a live action interpretation of the character. </div>
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<b>JOHN BOYEGA as JOHN HENRY IRONS / STEEL</b></div>
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If there was ever an underrated, criminally underused character in DC's lineup it would definitely be Steel. Now that I think about it, he's a little bit like Luke Cage. He's a hard working, honest man that's looking to make his neighborhood safer. He was rescued by Superman once and decided to dedicate his life to being just like him. He took up the mantle of Steel after Superman's death at the hands of Doomsday. He was one of four men claiming to be the Man of Steel. However, after Superman returned, Irons decided to stick around and inspire his neighborhood just like Superman inspires the world. </div>
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Unfortunately, Steel hasn't been around in the comics much these days. There was an attempt to bring him back after the New 52 started but he didn't stick around. However, I think he's the right character to bring back and shake up the DCEU in a huge way. Like I said, I think he could be DC's answer to Luke Cage. A strong, hard working African American man that takes up the mantle of hero to protect his friends and family. </div>
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Now, I know what you're thinking. No one could ever possibly be better in the role than Shaq.</div>
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In all seriousness, I think John Boyega is a hell of an actor and would be a great John Henry Irons. As Finn in <i>The Force Awakens, </i>Boyega made the choice to defect from the First Order and join with the Resistance. While he was clumsy at first, he quickly proved himself to be a hero by standing up to his former Stormtrooper friends and facing Kylo Ren on his own. Now that he's a little older, I'd love to see him in a future DCEU film inspired by Superman's death to defend Metropolis in his honor. That would be a great way to do a <i>Man of Steel </i>sequel now that I think about it . . . Hmmm . . . </div>
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<b>OLIVIA WILDE as BARBARA MINERVA / THE CHEETAH</b></div>
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The Cheetah is one of Wonder Woman's enemies. However, she has something of a tragic past (as most comic book villains do). She started off as a friend to Wonder Woman. She was the first non-Amazon to learn their language to try and communicate with Diana. She also helped teach her English so that she could communicate better with her new allies. She became obsessed with mythology and adventure. On one of her expeditions, she discovers the Cult of Urzkartaga and is transformed into the Cheetah. Granted that's from the recent <i>Wonder Woman Rebirth </i>comics. However, her origin is always tied to Wonder Woman and gaining powers from some crazy Indiana Jones-esque adventure. </div>
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Olivia Wilde is not only one of the most beautiful actresses in Hollywood, she's also one of the most talented. During her run on <i>House, M.D.</i>, she proved capable of handling comedy, drama, and everything in between. She was tough enough to stand up to House and his craziness but also dealt with her own personal demons. I have no doubt that she could easily slip into the complicated role of the Cheetah. Friend turned to enemy is one of the best arcs that a character can go through and I'd love to see her in a future <i>Wonder Woman </i>or <i>Justice League </i>film. Speaking of actors from <i>House . . . </i></div>
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<b>HUGH LAURIE as SINESTRO</b></div>
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Sinestro is definitely one of the absolute best characters in all of DC Comics. He started off as a Green Lantern. Soon, he was called the greatest Green Lantern given that his sector was considered the safest in the universe. However, after Hal Jordan became a Green Lantern, he discovered that Sinestro was actually imposing his will on his homeworld of Korugar. He was discharged from the Green Lantern Corps. It didn't take long for Sinestro to find a new source of power - the Yellow power of Fear. Eventually, he created the Sinestro Corps and went to war with the Green Lanterns. He believes his way is the right way and will stop at nothing until the universe kneels to him. </div>
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Say what you will about the <i>Green Lantern </i>film, but it's undeniable that Mark Strong was the best part about it with his pitch perfect take on Sinestro. While it's unlikely that he'll reprise his role in the upcoming <i>Green Lantern Corps </i>film, I think the character of Sinestro should still be included and Hugh Laurie would be perfect in the role. Throughout his run on <i>House, </i>Laurie demonstrated great comedic timing, powerful dramatic acting, and best of all his range as a tortured, lonely man. Granted, Sinestro is not at all like House, but I still think that with Laurie's talents, he could bring a lot to Sinestro. He'd have to be a leader, charming, malevolent, and most of all, committed. As wonderful a character as Sinestro is, he demands an actor that will bring him to life in a spectacular way. I think Laurie is more than qualified. </div>
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<b>JOHN CENA as SHAZAM!</b></div>
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Shazam is one of DC's oldest and best characters. He's actually Billy Batson, an orphan boy granted the power of the gods by the Wizard. By yelling out Shazam, Billy is turned into an adult superhero capable of incredible feats such as super strength, flight, invulnerability, magic, and control over lightning. He's one of DC's best characters. He's true wish fulfillment for a kid. He's a little boy that can become an adult. But with that power is also the responsibility to protect the world from dark forces. </div>
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Ok so . . . JOHN CENA! Sorry, had to get that out of the way first. I actually saw this on a facebook post that my friend shared with me. At first we laughed at the idea of Cena as Shazam. But the more I thought about it, and after seeing his performance on <i>Saturday Night Live</i>, I started to think he'd actually be a good choice. First of all, the dude is BIG. His biceps are twice as big as my head. If he's going to go up against Dwayne Johnson as Black Adam, then he's gonna have to bring the goods! Secondly, after seeing him on <i>SNL </i>and <i>Trainwreck, </i>I realized that he's actually got some talent as an actor. He's been in a few action films, but nothing that's really challenged him yet. There were scenes in <i>Trainwreck </i>that I found myself impressed with his acting. I think he would make a great Shazam, boy trapped in a man's body. Plus - who wouldn't want to see Cena and Johnson go head to head as Shazam vs Black Adam? Shut up and take my money! </div>
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<b>BRYAN CRANSTON AS DARKSEID</b></div>
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Darkseid is one of DC Comics' most powerful villains. He's the ruler of Apokalips and has made it his mission to conquer the rest of the universe with the Anti Life Equation. In the New 52, his arrival was what brought the Justice League together. They were barely able to fight him off. In the last big <i>Justice League </i>story before <i>Rebirth, </i>Darkseid was killed by the Anti-Monitor only to be brought back to life as a baby. Presumably, he'll be an adult again soon and will start causing more trouble for the Justice League. </div>
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Of all the names I mentioned, I think this is my favorite suggestion. Who wouldn't want to see Walter White as a 10 foot tall alien god with the power to kill the Justice League? Granted, most of the work would be done in post production with CGI, but that didn't stop Joss Whedon from casting James Spader as Ultron! In that same vein, I think Cranston would be absolutely perfect as Darkseid. During <i>Breaking Bad </i>it was clear that his transition from Walter White to Heisenberg was careful and meticulous. In this case, he could start right away as the ultimate DC villain. His voice alone has enough gravitas and menace that he could make Batman and Superman shake in their boots. And that's what's needed from Darkseid. He's not afraid to take on the most powerful heroes on Earth. The odds are against them even when it's just Darkseid standing in front of them. I'd love to see Cranston staring down Superman and trading verbal blows with Batman. Just imagine that Heisenbergian perfomance! Oh my goodness! Someone call Cranston's agent!! </div>
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These are just a few suggestions I had thought of. I'm a pretty big fan of all these actors and even bigger fan of the characters I picked for them. I know the DCEU has had some rough patches so far, but I have high hopes for the future. With any luck, Warner Bros will continue to pick out some great talents. So far, the actors have not disappointed me and I don't expect that to change. Here's hoping to a bright and amazing DC future!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie</div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-70268118048632846332016-12-28T12:01:00.002-08:002016-12-28T12:02:01.423-08:005 SUGGESTIONS FOR THE FLASH MOVIE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On TV, DC seems to dominate in terms of network shows. <i>Arrow, the Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl, Gotham, </i>and even somehow <i>Lucifer </i>have all gotten great reviews and have attracted many loyal fans that come back week after week. For some reason, they can't seem to strike the same chord with the films as of yet. Although I personally loved <i>Man of Steel, Batman v Superman, </i>and <i>Suicide Squad </i>I can see where they would have their critics. I have a strong feeling that is all going to change this year with <i>Wonder Woman </i>and <i>Justice League</i>.<br />
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<i>Aquaman </i>was recently given a release date, which tells us that the movie is moving forward with little to no speed bumps. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the upcoming <i>Flash </i>film. In the not too distant past the film has lost two directors, both fan favorite choices, Seth Grahame-Smith and Rick Famuyiwa. While the star, Ezra Miller, has obviously stayed put, it does cause worry among the fan community. Many fans think, much like myself, why bother with a solo <i>Flash </i>film when the TV series is on the air and extremely successful?<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">He's no Stephen Amell, but he's still a good lookin dude . . . </span></div>
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Regardless of what we may say, Warner Bros is still gung ho about making a <i>Flash </i>film starring Ezra Miller. While I get it, he's a young talent and this film will definitely showcase that, the film will have some heavy competition with its TV counterpart. So if the film is going to go full steam ahead, I think there needs to be some rules in place to really set it apart from the show. It might look the same, but it will feel different. Here's how some suggestions from an ordinary Comic Junkie . . . </div>
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<b>THE ROGUES</b></div>
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While the TV show has been giving us really cool twists on the Flash's rogues, part of me misses the classic Rogues from the comics. For example, Heatwave and Captain Cold are/were the heroes on <i>Legends of Tomorrow</i>. While I liked their transition and I love <i>Legends </i>a lot, part of me wishes that they would just be the bad guys again. Plus one thing the series never did was have a crap ton of the Rogues team up and fight the Flash. Sure we got Cold, Heatwave, and Golden Glider, and a few variations on that, it wasn't quite the same. The Rogues are a twisted group of dudes that think they're living the American Dream. Their job is to rob banks and get away with it and damn anyone that gets in the way. They might be the bad guys but they're not evil. I think seeing a proper Rogue treatment on film would be a good way to separate it from the series. I expected Cold and the Rogues to be mainstays on the show but instead they were put aside in favor of the Multiverse and Time Travel stories. Don't get me wrong, I love those stories and they've been great to see, there's still that side of me that wants Cold leading the Rogues into battle.<br />
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<b>BARRY'S DAY JOB</b></div>
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One thing that the show is sort of lacking on is Barry's day job as a Forensic Analyst for the Central City Police Department. Every now and then they touch on it, but for the most part the show deals with how the team at STAR Labs is going to fight the Rogue of the Week as opposed to the police doing it. That works well for the TV show but I'm hoping we get to see more of Barry's quirky side doing CSI work for the police. It would also be fun to see him solve a crime involving metahumans with his CSI partners and fellow detectives. The CSI component is often overlooked in the comic books but to me, it should be an essential part of the The Flash's story. I mean, being a pilot is always talked about in <i>Green Lantern </i>and there's never a Batman story without <i>Wayne Enterprises </i>in some capacity. Except for <i>Batman </i>and <i>Batman Returns </i>. . . Seriously . . . But you get the idea! I think having Barry be a brilliant but awkward CSI detective will help make his film different not only from the TV show but from other superhero films as well. </div>
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<b>BIG BUDGET SUPER SPEED!</b></div>
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Here's a few things that we can all agree on:</div>
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<li><i>The Flash, </i>while having a TV budget, has done incredible things with the Flash's powers. Almost every episode features some sort of jaw dropping imagery.</li>
<li><i>X-Men: Days of Future Past </i>and <i>Apocalypse </i>have shown us really spectacular super speed sequences. They're visually exciting and very entertaining. </li>
<li>The Flash's cameo in <i>Suicide Squad </i>was one of the best moments in the entire film.</li>
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Now . . . with those thoughts in mind let's think about how much fun a <i>Flash </i>live action movie could be! With a much larger budget, and keeping that brief <i>Suicide Squad </i>moment in mind, a super speed fight between Flash and Reverse Flash or Zoom or Black Flash or whatever could be extremely exciting! Like I said, <i>X-Men </i>made great use of Quicksilver in those films and I'd love to see something like that in a <i>Flash </i>movie. Except more than just one or two scenes. Like giant action set pieces that take place in the blink of an eye but we get to see it from the Flash's perspective. That would be amazing!</div>
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<b>FLASHPOINT</b></div>
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I don't have many complaints about the <i>Flash </i>series but I truly think that their adaptation of <i>Flashpoint </i>was not handled well. I mean it was fine for what it was but considering that in the comic book Barry changed the lives of everyone around him and not just in Central City, it was kind of weak. I know they don't have characters like Batman, Aquaman, Cyborg, and Wonder Woman to play with but it still could have been much more exciting than it was. It was all over and the ramifications of it are the driving force behind Season 3 as opposed to the actual event itself which could have been much more exciting.</div>
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In any event, since the TV show couldn't utilize all the other Justice League members, I'd love to see it tackled in the films at some point. Maybe it won't be the first <i>Flash </i>film but a sequel or later would be awesome. I mean, Jeffrey Dean Morgan has been cast as Thomas Wayne already! It would be a no brainer to include him as a rough around the edges Batman! Even if that was the only thing that made it to the <i>Flashpoint </i>film I would be happy. </div>
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<b>FLASH OF TWO WORLDS</b></div>
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I've said it before and I'll say it again - how great would it be if Grant Gustin got to cameo as an alternate Barry Allen in <i>The Flash </i>film? In the <i>Flash </i>season two, Barry traveled through the multiverse and saw a glimpse of John Wesley Shipp's original <i>Flash </i>TV series. That was a really cool moment for fans. It was a way to tie the two shows together without actually having to tie them together. I think the same thing should happen in the films. They should show alternate speedsters throughout the multiverse and one of them is Grant Gustin. It would be a great nod to the fans of the show and a way to kind of open the doors for a crossover at some point. Of course a crossover between the movies and TV shows is unlikely but it doesn't have to be impossible. I'd be willing to sit through that! That would be TV history just like they made TV history last month by having the mega crossover episodes! Come on! Let's do it! </div>
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These are just my ideas here. I don't know what's going to happen with the <i>Flash </i>movie. I am curious to see if Warner Bros decides to go ahead with the movie or not. If done right, it could be really exciting and very different from the TV show. I'm hoping that will be the case. Warner Bros doesn't have much good will left with fans. They better play their cards right! </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-69498628338512459392016-12-14T18:36:00.001-08:002016-12-14T18:36:55.916-08:002017 - THE YEAR HOLLYWOOD MADE MOVIES FROM MY 8 YEAR OLD WISH LIST<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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2016 was, arguably, one of the strangest movie years ever. A movie like <i>Deadpool </i>had better critical success than <i>Batman v Superman</i>. The part that people remember most about <i>Captain America: Civil War </i>was that Spider-Man was in it. <i>Independence Day: Resurgence </i>came and went so quick that I bet you forgot it existed till I just mentioned it! I mean . . . WHAT A YEAR! It's been a long, strange road in 2016. Personally, I was not a big fan of this year. Although I had fun, I think it's safe to say we've ended on a downer.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Shudder . . . </span></div>
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Regardless, I'm happy to say that I think we have a lot to look forward to next year. What with that guy's impeachment, great new movies to look forward to, and just the usual "new year, new me" crap that everyone tries. Today we're gonna focus on the upcoming movies for next year. As always there are quite a few, but I'd like to narrow it down to the ones I'm specifically excited for and what I'm hoping to get out of them. Here we go!</div>
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<b><i>THE LEGO BATMAN MOVIE </i></b></div>
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<b>FEBRUARY 10</b></div>
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<b><i>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGQUKzSDhrg</i></b></div>
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I can't even begin to describe how exciting this movie is for me. We'll start with the obvious - I love Batman and Batman's the best yadda yadda yadda. But seriously, he is. </div>
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I remember seeing the previews for <i>The Lego Movie </i>and thinking it looked so funny because it was the movie I had written in my head when I was a kid playing with Legos. <i>The Lego Batman Movie </i>is definitely an extension of that. Granted, there were no Batman Legos when I was a kid but I did play with my Batman action figures every day, coming up with new adventures for the Caped Crusader. I see these previews and I can't help but think that Hollywood was stalking my childhood (more on that later). </div>
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<i>The Lego Movie </i>was surprisingly a very deep movie with some interesting twists and turns in the plot. I'm hoping to see something similar in <i>Batman</i>. Given that, as per usual with a <i>Batman </i>film, there is a stellar cast involved, we'll get some great performances. I'm hoping that like the <i>Lego Movie </i>did a few years ago, this film will challenge its audience a little bit. Either way, it's going to be incredible to see such creative takes on Batman and his rogues and allies. </div>
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<b><i>LOGAN</i></b></div>
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<b>MARCH 3</b></div>
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Wow. What a gorgeous trailer. I've said time and time again that I'm a sucker for a good trailer. Often, if a good song or score is put in the trailer it can really enhance the viewing experience of it. In this case, with Johnny Cash's "Hurt" playing in the background, it makes the whole film seem so sad. And let's face it, it is sad! It's going to be Hugh Jackman's last performance as Wolverine/Logan. He's been playing this character since 2000's <i>X-Men</i>. For many fans, like myself, we grew up on those films and he's been a mainstay for all of them.</div>
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Most of us were hoping for an <i>Old Man Logan </i>adaptation in this film. While it looks like we're getting a bit of that flavor with the post apocalyptic looking world, although that may not entirely be the case, we unfortunately won't get to see characters like Bruce Banner, Hawkeye, Spider-Girl, Red Skull, and the others that helped make that comic so memorable and, quite frankly, haunting. </div>
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I'm definitely excited for this film. It looks to have the bittersweet send off that I think Hugh Jackman deserves for Logan. Given that this will be the first <i>Wolverine </i>film that's rated R, I think we'll be in for a treat. Not that I'm a big fan of violence, blood, guts, and all that stuff, but I think a proper <i>Old Man Logan </i>story deserves a higher rating to ensure the action scenes aren't toned down. It doesn't have to be messy, but I do expect it to get just a wee bit uncomfortable. After all, Wolverine has never been one to shy away from violence. </div>
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<b><i>KONG: SKULL ISLAND</i></b></div>
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<b>MARCH 10</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9y6oPka3us</b></div>
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Now this should be interesting! I remember seeing the trailers for <i>Godzilla </i>a few years ago and being so excited for that film. While I was only semi-disappointed with that movie, I have higher hopes for <i>Kong</i>. I think <i>Godzilla </i>delivered on some great imagery and really cool monster fights. I'm hoping that <i>Kong </i>will tackle a little more of the man vs nature story that was sort of glossed over in <i>Godzilla</i>. </div>
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Plus this cast has Loki, Captain Marvel, Nick Fury, Denarian Dey, and John Goodman (he doesn't have a cool Marvel name yet). In terms of acting, those are some heavy hitters, even if John C. Reilly lays on the comic relief a little too thick for my tastes. However, the movie itself looks fantastic and really intriguing. </div>
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I was a fan of Peter Jackson's <i>King Kong </i>from 2005. I've since changed my opinion on that, given that I rewatched it a few weeks ago and I found myself fast forwarding several times. I mean, the movie is WAY too long. I mean like WAY too long. Like I watched it and was late for my wedding, and I didn't even have a girlfriend when the film started. Ok, Ok! I'm done with that. (seriously though . . . too long). </div>
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I don't think this film will suffer the same ridiculous run time. I'm excited to see what happens and what teases we'll get for the eventual <i>Kong v Godzilla: Dawn of Monsters</i> we're supposed to get in 2020. That will definitely be a fun movie! </div>
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<b><i>BEAUTY AND THE BEAST</i></b></div>
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<b>MARCH 17</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvW_L8sTu5E</b></div>
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Remember how I said that Hollywood was stalking my childhood? I mean . . . there's plenty of proof! <i>Beauty and the Beast </i>is one of my all time favorite animated movies and stage musicals. I remember seeing it on Broadway with my family when it was first produced and being totally blown away. I saw it a couple more times over the years at various venues. I never got tired of it. Even now, as an adult, I watch the animated film and I ugly cry throughout the whole thing. When I heard they were making a live action film AND it was going to be a musical, I couldn't contain my excitement. I'm not a super Broadway buff or anything, but I do love seeing musicals on stage. Of course it's different on film, but if it's done right then it can be a magical experience all the same. </div>
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And that cast! Oh my gosh! Emma Watson, Ewan McGregor, Emma Thompson, Ian McKellan, Josh Gad, oh my word . . . it's enough to make a man cry! And I will. On March 17, I will be crying. I'm secure enough in my masculinity where I can say that! </div>
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I will say that I don't think the Beast's look is as scary as it was in the animated version, but I think it won't matter once I'm watching the film. I love that Disney is bringing these old classics to life. Some (ok most) will say that it's clearly Hollywood running out of ideas. I won't disagree but at the same time, I look at my nephews and my friends' children and I love the idea that they get to grow up with these movies just like I did, albeit in a different way. And this one is very special to me.</div>
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<b><i>POWER RANGERS</i></b></div>
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<b>MARCH 24</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-C4qqsgs8w</b></div>
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March is going to be a very busy month for me! I mean there are four movies in a row that I can't wait to see! I've previously said how excited I was for <i>Power Rangers, </i>so there's no need for me to reiterate that here. I will however say that I am very excited . . . Ok so I did reiterate that . . . What more do you want?</div>
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I'm really loving the slow burn of information we're getting about the film. Like the poster above shows us the Zords but only a little. As of this writing, we still don't know what Zordon looks like, we know what Alpha 5 looks like but not how Bill Hader's voice sounds with the character. We know that Goldar and the Putties are in the film but not what they look like either. All we know for sure is that there are 5 teenagers, Rita, and Angel Grove. I'm excited to see this movie and my imagination is running wild as of right now.</div>
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Oh and that! That's the toy version of the Megazord. It's what you're getting me for Christmas. Thank you in advance.</div>
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<b><i>GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2 </i></b></div>
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<b>MAY 5</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dW1BIid8Osg</b></div>
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<i>Guardians of the Galaxy </i>was definitely one of Marvel's best films. It was great because, let's face it, it kind of wasn't supposed to be. It looked weird, its two most famous actors were voice overs, and it was headlined by a supporting actor from an NBC sitcom. </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5MQA2UPD38/WFCEMsWeZzI/AAAAAAAAEUs/ojGawtblMWE0USKHZKMO2bdVtwj_BMvgQCLcB/s1600/andy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j5MQA2UPD38/WFCEMsWeZzI/AAAAAAAAEUs/ojGawtblMWE0USKHZKMO2bdVtwj_BMvgQCLcB/s320/andy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The chubby idiot as Honest Trailers called him . . .</span></div>
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Against all odds, audiences were "hooked on a feeling" with the first film and it became a smash hit. I saw it and was blown away. I was laughing, cheering, and tearing up. It did everything it was supposed to do. The funny thing is that it felt like such a big movie and the second one looks even bigger judging by this trailer and the teaser that James Gunn released previously. Luckily, we still don't know that much about the movie. We know we'll meet Peter Quill's real father and that Groot is a youngling. That's . . . about it. I love that. I also love that the film is largely removed from the rest of the Marvel Universe. We don't need any more set ups for <i>Infinity War</i>. Of course, they will probably allude to or possibly even include Thanos in some fashion in this film, but I don't think it's necessary and I don't think anyone will miss it if that stuff is excluded this time around. </div>
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Either way, I'm very excited to see what happens in this film. <i>Guardians </i>is one of my favorite Marvel films and I have high hopes for the second one. </div>
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<b><i>ALIEN: COVENANT</i></b></div>
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<b>MAY 19</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjLamj-b0I8</b></div>
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Man . . . <i>Prometheus </i>was so disappointing. I mean it was not that great. And there's like no reason for that. It had a great cast, great director, great concept . . . It just got all muddled up somewhere. I don't even know how to explain it. But that's all behind us now! We've got a new <i>Alien </i>movie to look forward to and it actually will have the Aliens in it!</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PDa0SJ6Z5U8/WFCIBV_vMKI/AAAAAAAAEVA/cWWbyw0i0g8o2IzwaOFNBYobVUWHGGa8QCLcB/s1600/Prometheus-Alien-1050x525.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PDa0SJ6Z5U8/WFCIBV_vMKI/AAAAAAAAEVA/cWWbyw0i0g8o2IzwaOFNBYobVUWHGGa8QCLcB/s320/Prometheus-Alien-1050x525.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Although I do hope we see more of this guy! He's creepy af! </span></div>
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As of this writing we do not have a trailer for the movie so I've included the trailer to the original <i>Alien </i>from 1979. It still holds up in my opinion. I'm hoping if <i>Covenant </i>is scaled back then we will get a truly terrifying <i>Alien </i>film again. The <i>Alien </i>films were some of the first horror films I ever really loved as a kid. They terrified me but also fascinated me. I wanted to see more aliens and learn more about them. I hope that <i>Covenant </i>actually gives more backstory and explains them a bit more. Like, do they have a life stage that we haven't seen between chestburster and adult? Is there a stage after adult? These are the things I think about while you're at work all day!</div>
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I just want it to be good. It's been so long since we've had a good <i>Alien </i>movie. </div>
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Preach it, sister!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3i2kO3Fyh0/WFCMSU7iVxI/AAAAAAAAEVY/y_sjQhLyCX8MGFLVe6yVPIvqfK2VMAeOQCLcB/s1600/wonder%2Bwoman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O3i2kO3Fyh0/WFCMSU7iVxI/AAAAAAAAEVY/y_sjQhLyCX8MGFLVe6yVPIvqfK2VMAeOQCLcB/s1600/wonder%2Bwoman.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i>WONDER WOMAN</i></b></div>
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<b>JUNE 2</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Q8fG0TtVAY</b></div>
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Almost every time someone is cast in a DC role, the "fans" get all riled up. And almost every time once they see the film they say, "Oh yeah they're great!" Gal Gadot was once one of those cast members that received unnecessary hate from fans and for dumb reasons (she's a woman and her boobs weren't big enough . . . seriously, I hate the fans sometimes). However, Gadot gave an awesome and memorable performance in <i>Batman v Superman</i>. She proved herself an equal to Bruce's ingenuity and an equal to Clark's strength. After her scenes, I genuinely couldn't wait to see her in a solo <i>Wonder Woman </i>film.</div>
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So we'll get to the obvious point - this film is long overdue! Even if you don't know much about comic books, Wonder Woman is still easily recognizable and known to casual audiences. Whether it's the Lynda Carter series from the 70s, the merchandise, or even her appearances on <i>Justice League </i>and <i>Justice League Unlimited</i>. People know her. She's kind of a big deal. I love that we're finally getting a proper <i>Wonder Woman </i>film. I'm hoping that this film will stand on its own two feet as opposed to needing cameos from Batman or Superman to give it credibility. I think audiences, male and female alike, are more than ready for a bad ass Wonder Woman film. I know I am! </div>
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And darn it . . . She's so dang beautiful. I literally can't even right now!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BZSL5WWUexM/WFCP2pwiekI/AAAAAAAAEVo/1OfE0klU95MwkOS5MjBovyzz5QIYQYdVQCLcB/s1600/Mummy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BZSL5WWUexM/WFCP2pwiekI/AAAAAAAAEVo/1OfE0klU95MwkOS5MjBovyzz5QIYQYdVQCLcB/s1600/Mummy.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><i>THE MUMMY</i></b></div>
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<b>JUNE 9</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjHgzkQM2Sg</b></div>
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This may surprise you, but one of my favorite movies as a kid was <i>The Mummy </i>with Brendan Fraser. I thought it was funny, fun, scary, and really exciting to watch. Plus, I had only known Fraser from <i>George of the Jungle </i>so I was surprised to see him as a swashbuckling hero. I thought he was awesome in the role (still do). I loved the 30s setting, Arnold Vosloo and the special effects on him, and I developed an everlasting crush on Rachel Weisz. It was a good time. Needless to say when I heard Universal wanted to make a "shared universe" for their movie monsters I was skeptical. Shared universes are the name of the game since <i>The Avengers </i>did it so successfully. </div>
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However, my fears were put to rest, mummified if you will, when I heard that Tom Cruise was going to be in the film. I love Tom Cruise. He's one of my favorite actors. I will admit that he's done the occasional bad film, but for the most part I think he gives great performances in all of his movies. I think the fact that he's in this film and is giving it his recommendation is good enough for me. Plus, Russell Crowe is playing Dr. Jekyll. I mean . . . how awesome is that? </div>
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More than anything, I want the film to be scary. I want it to be exciting. I want it to be engaging. Those are the things I'm looking for when these properties are rebooted. If you're going to bring back <i>The Mummy, </i>you better have a damn good reason to do it! </div>
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<b><i>SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING</i></b></div>
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<b>JULY 7</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rk-dF1lIbIg.</b></div>
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This movie comes out on my 30th birthday. How cool is that? Have I said that before? I probably have. Anyway, it's Spider-Man's first official solo film within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This is definitely a big deal. While I am bummed that Andrew Garfield is no longer playing Peter, I'm willing to see what Tom Holland does with the character. </div>
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What makes this exciting for me is that it looks to be more like the <i>Ultimate Spider-Man </i>comics I loved so much. Those were the Spider-Man comics that I "grew up with" despite reading all of them as an adult (early 20s). Those were the ones that I wanted to see adapted to film. If that's the direction that Marvel goes in then I'm definitely on board. </div>
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What I'm really excited about is that this film feels a lot smaller in comparison to the other Marvel films. For the most part, it's just Spider-Man flying around. Sure he wants to be a big time superhero but I think he's good staying in New York dealing with smaller threats like the Vulture and those guys. Then he can take on Thanos in 2018 with the rest of the Avengers. For now, I'm looking forward to a smaller superhero film that leads to something bigger. </div>
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<b><i>WAR FOR THE PLANET OF THE APES</i></b></div>
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<b>JULY 14</b></div>
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<b>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEP1Mk6Un98</b></div>
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I talked about how Hollywood is seemingly bringing my childhood dreams to life with a lot of these 2017 movies. Well . . . this is the exception. <i>Planet of the Apes </i>is a relatively new love for me. I saw the original film and didn't really care for it as a kid. I saw the Tim Burton <i>Planet of the Apes </i>and thought it was OK. As time has gone on, I've liked it less and less. So when <i>Rise of the Planet of the Apes </i>was announced I didn't care about it. I watched the preview and thought, "Eh, it looks alright. I'll wait for it to rent." Much to my surprise, everyone was praising the film! They all loved it! </div>
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True to my word, I waited for it come on DVD and I rented it. My town still had a Blockbuster! Can you believe that? Haha! Anyway, I watched it and I was in awe. The film was beautiful. I couldn't believe how toned down it was. The movie was all about Caesar and his conflict. Is he human? Is he ape? What is he? I was genuinely surprised. I expected a dumb action movie where apes suddenly become intelligent and rebel against humans. While that does happen in the movie, it happens much later after it's been earned. The build up is perfect and the ending made me smile, even though I knew that humanity was ultimately doomed. </div>
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When <i>Dawn of the Planet of the Apes </i>was announced I was so excited. They said it was going to be 8 years later, which I didn't like at first, but I was still willing to give it a shot. And boy oh boy was it worth it. The movie had a great progression, great characters, great conflict, and felt like a true sequel. The 8 year gap that I thought would hurt the film actually helped it. I think it sets up this <i>War </i>perfectly. </div>
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I love Andy Serkis's work as Caesar. It's a testament to great acting and I'm so mad that he may never be nominated for an Oscar for his work in these films. Caesar has become one of my favorite film characters. A lesser actor would have just tried to make the character some sort of human/ape hybrid, but not Serkis. He let the more human aspects of Caesar be developed over these movies. Already I can tell we'll see less Ape in Caesar in this film and that's how it should be. I can't wait!</div>
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<b><i>IT</i></b></div>
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<b>SEPTEMBER 8</b></div>
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Again, this is a very new love for me. I only recently got into <i>It </i>about a year and a half ago. I watched the Tim Curry TV movie and really enjoyed it. True it may be severely dated and it's clear that there were limits with the TV budget but man oh man! They did some great stuff with what little they had. Curry's performance will be hard to top. Just watch the scene I included and you'll see for yourself. </div>
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I have high hopes for what can be done with a big budget adaptation of the novel. I've read the book and fell in love with it. And hated it. It's terrifying. But that's the point! The movie is supposedly split into two parts with the first part taking place in the past with the children and then part two will be their encounter with Pennywise as adults. That's definitely the way to go, although I was hoping for a limited series but this will probably work too. </div>
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And look at that image! Bill Skarsgard looks terrifying, I'm definitely hoping we'll get a trailer to see what the film has in store. For now though, I'm going to change my shorts cuz that clown is creepy af!</div>
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<b><i>THOR: RAGNAROK</i></b></div>
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<b>NOVEMBER 3</b></div>
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We do not have a trailer yet, but I wanted to include something so here's the Hulk vs Thor fight from the first <i>Avengers </i>film. Because it's awesome and I was cheering during that fight in the movie theater. I'm personally loving that the more recent Marvel films, with the exception of <i>Doctor Strange</i>, aren't afraid to pair up (or more) the heroes. I mean it's one thing to get an <i>Avengers </i>film every couple of years but having Iron Man in <i>Spider-Man: Homecoming, </i>Falcon in <i>Ant-Man</i>, and just about everybody in <i>Captain America: Civil War </i>makes these movies feel more like the comic books. Plus this film will finally shut all those people up that want to see a <i>Planet Hulk </i>movie. I do not want to see that. I was not a fan of the comic. I did like <i>World War Hulk </i>though . . . that was cool. But I digress . . . </div>
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The other thing that's exciting about this movie is the cast! Jeff Goldblum, Cate Blanchett, Sam Neill, Karl Urban, and of course, as evidenced by the mid credit scene in his film, Benedict Cumberbatch! If it were any other movie that cast would be exciting but the fact that it's a <i>Thor </i>movie makes it even better! I loved the first <i>Thor </i>film. I didn't care for the second one, but his appearances in the <i>Avengers </i>were always awesome and fun to watch. And so far Mark Ruffalo's performance as Bruce Banner and the mo cap work on the Hulk has been phenomenal. Seeing those two characters on a "buddy cop cosmic quest" will be a lot of fun. I can't wait to see what this movie looks like and how it will set up <i>Avengers: Infinity War </i>and future Thor and Hulk adventures.<br />
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<b><i>JUSTICE LEAGUE</i></b></div>
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<b>NOVEMBER 17</b></div>
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Now this . . . This is the one! I don't care what anyone says I loved <i>Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice</i>. The Ultimate Edition was the movie that I wanted to see and I was so happy that I got the movie I wanted. I really can't wait to see what happens with <i>Justice League</i>. This is definitely the ultimate movie for me. I've always wanted to see a live action <i>Justice League </i>film. I loved the <i>Justice League </i>animated series when I was growing up. Even now I watch it on Netflix and it still holds up. It's such a fun series but there are very deep, complex themes that adults can really latch onto. That's what I think the live action film needs to capture. </div>
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Yes, we all want to see all the League members shine and have their moment to kick ass. But we also need to see them together learning to work together and be a family. I'm definitely excited to see the team interact just based on that little bit of footage from Comic Con. We still don't know what will happen when Superman returns (no pun intended). We don't know what exactly Steppenwolf, Darkseid, or whatever is planning. All we know is that Bruce Wayne is trying to form the Justice League and it's not going so well. I can't wait to see what happens with this movie. I think given that the producers have promised a "lighter tone" than the previous films that we'll see a more traditional Justice League story. It will be exciting, fun, scary, and have good amounts of humor laced throughout it. That's what I'm hoping for! Also . . . IT'S THE FREAKING JUSTICE LEAGUE!!!</div>
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<b><i>STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII</i></b></div>
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<b>DECEMBER 15</b></div>
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Oh my goodness! Where do we even begin? <i>The Force Awakens </i>was one of the best movie experiences I've ever had. I knew just about nothing about the film, it was an old favorite from my childhood, and to top it off - the movie was actually really, really good. How often does that happen? I think Rian Johnson and the cast and crew of <i>Episode VIII </i>have their work cut out for them. Not only do they have to make a great film but they have to make a great <i>Star Wars </i>film. As we've seen, that is not easy to do. The films are either really great and beloved by all or universally panned forever. I do have high hopes for this one though. Luke Skywalker is my favorite Star Wars character. I thought Mark Hamill made a great transition from boy to man in the original films. I'd love to see where his character is at now.<br />
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Has he lost confidence? Is he trying to find a way to redeem himself or Kylo? He kept the map a secret but not impossible to find. Perhaps he knew someone would find him! And what is his connection to Rey? Is he her father or is he something else? I can't wait to find out!<br />
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<b><i>JUMANJI</i></b></div>
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<b>DECEMBER 22</b></div>
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Holy shit, guys! Remember <i>Jumanji</i>? What a weird movie. I mean it's pretty awesome. After Robin Williams died, I watched a bunch of his movies again. So much of his stuff was a part of my childhoood. There was <i>Hook, Mrs. Doubtfire, Aladdin, </i>and of course <i>Jumanji. </i>I remember reading the book as a kid and really liking it. When they announced a movie version starring him I was very excited. I remember the movie really freaking me out as a kid. I mean, it's kinda scary! All those creatures coming out of the game and how do you get them back in the game when all that stuff is trying to kill you! It was trippy man! Having rewatched it as an adult I can safely say that I do still love that movie. There are some good lessons in there about standing up for yourself, family, and second chances. It's a pretty great movie. I'm tearing up a bit . . . </div>
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So what's going on with the second one? Well, we don't really know that much about it. It looks like the majority of the film takes place in the game itself but rumor has it that it's now a video game some kids get trapped in. And the Rock is there! So . . . it should be OK. Kevin Hart is pretty funny, Jack Black has his moments (I liked him in <i>Goosebumps</i>), and Karen Gillan is just . . . wow! So the cast looks cool. Plus, Dwayne Johnson has said that this film will honor the film before it as a tribute to Robin Williams. So far, so good. We probably won't get a trailer for a few more months seeing as how it's not due till Christmas 2017. Bummer . . . </div>
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As a side note I want to confess something - I've got a bit of a man crush on Dwayne Johnson. I mean, yeah the dude is good looking, but he seems like a genuinely awesome guy. I see his posts on Instagram and Snapchat and I really admire the kind of celebrity he is. He's very gracious to his fans, he's always up front with his feelings, he does a lot of charity work, he really just doesn't seem like a cheesy, flashy guy. He seems like a real person, despite looking like he's made of pure concrete. Maybe that's why they call him the Rock . . . Hmmm . . . Seriously though, I admire this guy. He puts his heart and soul into all his films and promotes them all with so much passion and it doesn't seem like he does it because he's getting pressure from the studio executives. He seems to genuinely be excited about all his projects. If I ever become famous, I would want to be that type of celebrity. He's the primary reason I'm excited for a <i>Jumanji </i>follow up. I have high hopes for it after seeing his funny Instagram videos like the one I shared above. I can't wait to see what it looks like!</div>
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Now you may have noticed I left off <i>The Fate of the Furious </i>and <i>Transformers: the Last Knight</i>. I did that deliberately because believe it or not I'm not a big fan of those franchises. The <i>Fast and Furious </i>movies have never really done it for me. Although I loved the first <i>Transformers </i>film I've hated the sequels more and more as they've come out. They had some great trailers, great posters, awesome visuals, but the films have been utterly terrible. And I'm not seeing this new one! You won't trick me again, Michael Bay! You won't!</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Oh man . . . That looks so cool . . . </span></div>
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I'm very much looking forward to all these films this year. It's going to be the year that my childhood came back. Which I've been saying for 3 years now . . . But whatever! I'm gonna be 30! I'm feeling old! Don't judge me!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - The Comic Junkie! </div>
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For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-91943463465950291692016-12-09T17:19:00.003-08:002016-12-09T17:19:52.900-08:007 THINGS I WANT TO SEE IN SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After a long time waiting (ok like 7 months) we've finally gotten our first look at Marvel's upcoming <i>Spider-Man: Homecoming </i>reboot. I've talked before on what would be cool to see in the film or future films, or even where Spidey should go next. Personally, I lobbied for him to pop up in other films and TV shows before getting his own film. However, that's not what happened and for better or for worse, we're getting a brand new <i>Spider-Man </i>film next summer. We can safely assume that it's for the better because the trailer looks freaking great, Robert Downey, Jr is in it, and Tom Holland is already being touted as the best version of the character thus far. In my opinion that's a bit premature but I think we're on the way to a great version of Spidey, one that works well with the other MCU stars.<br />
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As a lifelong Spider-Man fan, and as a fan of the previous 5 films, (six if you count <i>Captain America: Civil War</i>) I've got a certain wish list of things I've always wanted to see in a Spidey film that I haven't gotten to see yet. What are they? Well . . . I'm glad you asked!<br />
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<b>NO LOVE INTEREST</b></div>
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This one may already be happening, based on what little we know of the film, but this is something that I definitely think needs to take a backseat. Two of the best Marvel films to date are <i>Guardians of the Galaxy </i>and <i>Captain America: The Winter Soldier. </i>You know what those two have in common? They don't have a love story. <i>Guardians </i>is kind of about creating your own dysfunctional family and <i>Winter Soldier </i>is more about trusting yourself and learning to trust those closest to you, with a slight hint of bromance. I love those movies and they work very well without a love story or even so much of a hint of a love story. Sure Quill flirts around and Widow keeps trying to set Rogers up, but it doesn't really happen. The film works fine without pay offs to those threads. </div>
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The past 5, that's right FIVE, <i>Spider-Man </i>films have been about Peter being in love with Mary Jane (who treated him like shit in all those movies) or Gwen (who he treated like shit in those two movies). I think we're done with that for a while. Peter has had a great many love interests in the comic books from MJ to Gwen to Liz Allan to Betty Brandt to Black Cat to Kitty Pryde (in the Ultimate Universe) and so on and so forth, but I think we as the audience need a break. This film needs to be about Peter learning to love himself and his powers as Spider-Man. The love story can wait. It's been done . . . let's move on!</div>
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<b>AUNT MAY</b></div>
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Marisa Tomei is Aunt May. While that may seem like an unconventional choice given her age, I think she can pull it off. But let's think about this - Tomei is an Academy Award winning actor. GIVE HER SOMETHING TO DO. One of the issues I had with the <i>Amazing Spider-Man </i>films was that Sally Field was criminally underused as Aunt May. When she was on screen she was damn near perfect and kicked a lot of ass, well emotionally, but she didn't get to stretch as much as Rosemary Harris did in the original <i>Spider-Man </i>films. As it goes with superheroes, their parents are often the most important characters in the films one way or another. Batman loses his and tries to embody his father's ideals, Superman is a man from two worlds and chooses to embrace both of them going forward, and Spider-Man has his Aunt May and Uncle Ben. Ben gives him the "great responsibility" speech (more on that later) and May is his lighthouse when he loses his way. She's the cool mother everyone needs. She always knows the right thing to say. When she has nothing but the shirt on her back, she'd give it to Peter to keep warm without a second thought. She's the most kind hearted woman in the world and loves Peter like he was her own son. Harris brought that to life for me in the original films. I think Field did as well, she just wasn't given the screen time because those films focused on Peter's father (who's a douche). Let's get back to the here and now. Aunt May is there for Peter here and now. She loves him so much and would do anything for her boy. That's the May I want to see. </div>
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<b>TONY STARK . . . BUT NOT LIKE A LOT OF TONY STARK</b></div>
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I think we can all agree that one of the highlights of <i>Captain America: Civil War </i>was Tony meeting Peter. Granted, it doesn't make a lot of sense unless Tony is also recruiting other teenagers with powers to be Avengers but let's not think too much on it! Either way, Downey and Holland worked well together and had good chemistry. It's going to be a cool, sort of passing the torch, moment for Peter and Tony in <i>Homecoming</i> I think. Not that Tony is going anywhere any time soon, but we've got to assume that Downey is on his last couple of Marvel movies. Between this one and the next two <i>Avengers </i>films, Downey's time as Stark is limited. So let's make the most of him in <i>Homecoming </i>while we have him. </div>
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BUT don't over do it. I mean, as much as I love seeing RDJ as Tony Stark, I don't want him to overpower the film. I felt he had a good balance in <i>Civil War</i>. He clearly was the co-star and not the main attraction. That film worked because his time in the film was utilized perfectly. Let's do that again, but maybe just a smidge less. I know there has already been an image of Iron Man flying next to Spidey, but let's not make it the Spider-Man/Iron Man team up film. Peter needs to have a journey in this film and that's going to be hard to do if the audience is waiting for Tony to show up every other scene. Instead, Tony needs to be the pseudo-Uncle Ben in this film. He'll help Peter when he needs it but he won't do the job for him. That's going to be very important. Obviously, Tony is no Uncle Ben but I think he will fancy himself as Parker's mentor. I think three or four solid scenes of Tony mentoring Peter or whatever is all we really need. Plus . . . the villain is the Vulture. I mean, how much help is Peter going to need with that guy? Not much . . . Not much. Speaking of which!</div>
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<b>A GOOD VILLAIN . . . PLEASE MARVEL, PLEASE!!</b></div>
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Next to Batman, Spider-Man has comic's best rogues gallery. Most of the previous films have made good use of them but now we get to see a Spidey villain that we've never seen before - the Vulture. While he's not my favorite, I can get into it because it will allow for some pretty awesome aerial fights that we haven't seen yet in a live action Spider-Man film. Plus he's being played by one of my favorite actors ever Michael Keaton. </div>
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There's just one little problem - Marvel has a tendency to cast wonderful actors as the bad guys and then give them next to nothing to do. I'm hoping this will not be the case with Michael Keaton. Kevin Feige, Marvel's Head Honcho, said that he wanted to tell a tale of two ordinary guys that get their hands on powers and how they each deal with it. Those two guys are Peter Parker and Adrian Toomes, the Vulture. Now, if it was up to me, I would have cast Michael Keaton as the Green Goblin or at least as Norman Osborn because I think he would excel at that role, but this is what we got. If that's the case and Keaton is going to be a one off villain then let's at least make him memorable. One of my favorite parts of <i>The Amazing Spider-Man 2 </i>was that Electro had nothing to do with Peter Parker. He hated/loved Spider-Man and wanted to get at him. I hope they go a similar route with Toomes in <i>Homecoming</i>. There's no need for Peter to have yet another mentor that betrays him or something like that. I'd like to see a bad guy that hates Spider-Man just because he's in his way. That's more fitting with the Vulture from the comic books anyway. He has no beef with Peter Parker, he just wants to steal shit and hates it when Spider-Man gets in his way. Let's do more of that! And let's also not waste Michael Keaton in this film!</div>
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<b>GREAT POWER, GREAT RESPONSIBILITY</b></div>
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The main theme of any good Spider-Man story is always this quote, "With great power comes great responsibility." It's wonderful to see it come to life in the way Peter uses his great power and the way his villains use their great power. Of course Peter uses it for great responsibility but his enemies always find ways to avoid that part. In <i>Civil War, </i>Peter has a great line where he says that, "When you can do what I can do and then the bad things happen, they happen because of you." I'm paraphrasing slightly but you get it. In his first moment in the MCU, Peter has already learned his greatest lesson. He knows that he has these powers for a reason and he has the power to stop bad things from happening to the world around him. Spider-Man's greatest stories have always revolved around this lesson. True, it gives Peter the biggest guilt complex in the world, but it helps him be a better hero. The needs of the many outweigh the needs/wants of the one. This was best shown in <i>Spider-Man 2</i>. Peter tries to deny his powers and he sees the big ramifications of it, the apartment building on fire, and the small ramifications, the young boy disheartened by Spider-Man's disappearance. I hope we get to see Peter learn this lesson again and try to teach it not only to his enemies but to Tony Stark and the other Avengers as well. </div>
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<b>NEW CHALLENGES / FEATS OF STRENGTH</b></div>
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You wanna know what has secretly bugged me about Spider-Man's powers in the comics? They are somewhat undefined. I mean, sometimes he's lifting a car like it's super heavy, other times he's facing the Hulk head on and holding his own. I mean . . . what's the deal? I think Peter does hold back quite a bit in the comics, in fact when Doc Ock took over his body he said as much, but Spider-Man should be one of the heavy hitters. Maybe he can't take on the Hulk without a little back up but he should be able to hold his own and get a few jabs in right? I think Spidey's powers should be tested and then verified. Don't make him super strong in one scene and the next he's barely holding his own against the freaking Vulture! </div>
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The trailer shows Peter struggling to hold together a cruise ship that's been blown in half. I think this is the perfect scene to set up just how strong Spider-Man is. If he needs to let loose, let him let loose! If he needs to be more restrained like against the Avengers Thieves, then make a point to acknowledge that. It doesn't have to be said in every single scene, but I wouldn't mind it if Peter calls attention to his limits and tries to test them. Hell, isn't that what Tony is supposed to help him with? </div>
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<b>MORE COMEDY, LESS TRAGEDY</b></div>
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I said once that I think the best Batman stories are tragedies. I still believe that. It works well for Batman. It does not work as well for Spider-Man. The main problem I had with the <i>Amazing Spider-Man </i>films is that they seemed to have to include a Stacy funeral or they weren't doing their job right. While yes, Spider-Man is technically born in tragedy, as most great heroes are, I don't think he needs to be constantly defined by it. Uncle Ben's death is what motivates him to be a more proactive hero. That's it! That's all we need! I'm tired of seeing Spider-Man villains and allies killed off in every single film. Seriously! Think about it! Every single Spider-Man film has had at least one person die, usually more than that. Let's give it a rest or before you know it, they'll be killing off Tony Stark in this film! </div>
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Now despite the <i>Amazing </i>films having a Stacy death in the third acts, as mandated by law apparently, one thing they got absolutely right was Spidey's humor. When Peter puts on the costume, he lets loose all his inhibitions and becomes a witty, sarcastic, albeit annoying crime fighter. It's pretty much his trademark. He's the Friendly Neighborhood Wall Crawler but he's going to talk your ear off the whole time. Whether it's intentional humor of him telling a cheesy joke or something funny happening to him, Spider-Man is definitely one of the funniest characters in comic books today. I certainly hope we see more of that in this film because that's one of the reasons I loved Spidey so much as a kid. I thought he was hysterical and he always got himself into hilarious situations. The film should almost be a comedy in my mind. It will definitely help separate it from the other films before it. </div>
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These are just my thoughts on what I want to see next summer during <i>Spider-Man: Homecoming</i>. I love Spider-Man so much. <i>Spider-Man 2 </i>remains one of my all time favorite films. I'm hoping that this one will either top it or at least match its quality. I don't think that's too much to ask for right? . . . Right???!!!</div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie! </div>
For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-10702887549548871052016-12-01T14:35:00.002-08:002016-12-01T14:35:50.768-08:00DC WEEK - LEGENDS OF TOMORROW!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is the final day of the epic 4 (but technically only 3) day crossover of the CW's DC superhero shows. This one features the so called <i>Legends of Tomorrow</i>. This is pretty exciting considering that the Legends will be standing up next to Green Arrow, the Flash, Supergirl, Spartan, and other heroes that they don't normally get to fight with.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Squeal!</span></div>
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Like <i>Supergirl, Arrow, </i>and <i>The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow </i>has done a fantastic job of introducing heroes and characters from the DC Comics that otherwise probably wouldn't have shown up on TV or Film like Hourman, Obsidian, Citizen Steel, and even Rip Hunter himself. This got me thinking though, there are two characters that I would absolutely love to see and they would fit in perfectly with the Legends crew. It's actually kind of surprising that they haven't shown up yet despite being, somewhat, teased throughout the other <i>Arrow</i>verse shows.</div>
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That's right kids! Booster Gold and Blue Beetle, specifically Ted Kord. In the comics, they were essentially a bumbling pair of superheroes that probably screwed up more than they actually saved the day. They were regular fixtures during the <i>Justice League International </i>comic along with Batman and Green Lantern Guy Gardner.</div>
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Nowadays, Ted Kord has taken on a mentor type role to Jaime Reyes, the current Blue Beetle. While that's all well and good but I think that there is something to be gained from having Ted and Booster Gold team up with the Legends. True, the Legends already have a billionaire adventurer on their team with Ray Palmer, but I think Ted Kord is due for a proper live action debut. He had a small part in the Booster Gold episode of <i>Smallville </i>but that was to establish his connection to the Scarab. I'd love to see Blue Beetle/Ted Kord in full gear ready to kick some ass. This would be my suggestion:</div>
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<b>ARROW PARODY</b></div>
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I think it would be great to start Beetle's introduction as a parody of <i>Arrow, </i>in a sense. Have him act like he went through a major tragedy and decides to fight crime as a result. But instead of being bad ass like Oliver, he's actually quite bad at it. His gadgets don't work, the bad guys get away a lot, overall I'd want his introduction to be like the <i>Arrow </i>pilot, except the bad guys win because Ted has no idea what he's doing. Enter Booster Gold:</div>
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<b>FLASH PARODY</b></div>
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Essentially, Booster comes in like the Flash. He's powerful, a little cocky, and is eager to make a difference in the world. He asks to team up with Ted and even offers to help him save the world and expand his technology. Unfortunately, Booster is just as inept as Ted and they make things worse. Granted they get along just fine and become really good friends, but they can't help but just screw everything up. Now this is where the Legends come in . . . </div>
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<b>TIME ABERRATION</b></div>
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At this point, the Legends have to step in because Booster Gold is a Time Aberration and he needs to be stopped. Ted doesn't understand why his new friend is being attacked and tries to save him. The Legends force Booster to reveal the truth, that he's a time traveler from the future trying to come back to the 21st Century to make a lot of money as a superhero. Ted is furious and the Legends attempt to take Booster back to the 25th century where he, hopefully, can't hurt anyone else. Then of course, Booster reveals some crazy thing that states why he belongs with the Legends and wants to bring Ted along. Ray and Nate would feel sorry for Ted and want to encourage anyone that wants to be a hero to be a hero - with the proper training of course. </div>
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Those are my loose ideas on how to introduce these characters. It would be a very different type of <i>Legends </i>episode but let's face it - every show needs some crazy shake up every now and again. Plus this would open up possibilities to introduce the Legion of Superheroes, Jaime Reyes, Skeets, and other characters from Booster Gold and Blue Beetle's mythology. It's also a great way to have a sort of "meta" commentary on the superhero origin and, for the producers, poke fun at their own shows, which is always fun in my opinion. </div>
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In my mind, it's only a matter of time (pun not intended) before we see Booster Gold<b> </b>on <i>Legends of Tomorrow </i>and in my opinion, Kord would fit in perfectly, and imperfectly, on <i>Arrow</i>. I'd love to see those characters show up on any of the <i>Arrow</i>verse shows or maybe even start their own series next year that bleeds into next year's gigantic crossover. Cuz . . . they're gonna do it again and it's gonna be bigger next year! </div>
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Till Next Time!</div>
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JJ - the Comic Junkie!</div>
For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4904341482953277746.post-86835719452883182042016-11-30T09:57:00.001-08:002016-11-30T09:57:47.345-08:00DC WEEK - ARROW!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Day 3 of the massive CW Crossover <i>Invasion! </i>It's exciting for two reasons tonight, we're seeing more super team ups AND it's the 100th episode of my favorite TV show - <i>Arrow</i>!! I had previously discussed why <i>Arrow </i>was so important to me in my personal life. If you don't mind I'd like to elaborate on that a little bit.<br />
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During New York Comic Con 2012, <i>Arrow </i>premiered on the CW. My sister and I had missed it due to our vacation plans in NYC. While we were making our plans for the week at Comic Con we came across an interesting thing - There was going to be a signing with the <i>Arrow </i>cast on Sunday as well as a panel previewing the new series. We decided to download the pilot and watch it before making a decision if we wanted to go to these events. We watched it. We fell IN LOVE with it. It's very rare for a pilot episode to be so gripping and exciting. I felt like I was watching a new DC movie series come to life. The <i>Dark Knight </i>parallels were obvious but didn't overpower the show. While this was clearly inspired by Christopher Nolan's trilogy, it was a different beast.<br />
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That Sunday we got in line to get bracelets for the signing. Then we jumped in line for the panel. The whole room was full! If you've never been to the Javits Center in New York, I'll tell you it was their biggest screening room and it was filled with people excited to see more of <i>Arrow</i>. Geoff Johns (my man) moderated the panel which featured Katie Cassidy, Willa Holland, Stephen Amell, and producer Marc Guggenheim. I was lucky enough to be in line to ask a question during the panel. Actually I was the last one allowed to ask a question. THAT was a big deal to me. I've never been in that position. They showed us footage of the upcoming season. If the pilot blew me away, then I'm not sure how to describe that footage. It was amazing. Deathstroke? The Royal Flush Gang? Deadshot? Arrow kicking ass?? Hells yes!<br />
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As a side note - my question was "Will writers of the comics ever guest write? Like Kevin Smith or Judd Winick?" The answer was that some Green Arrow people were scheduled to help out like Geoff Johns writing an episode or two and Mike Grell submitting the famous "Hood Guy Sketch" from the pilot.<br />
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I thanked them and told them that the footage was incredible. <i>"</i>I felt like I was watching <i>The Dark Knight</i>," I told them. Guggenheim said, "That's the best compliment I've ever gotten!" That made me very happy.<br />
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Next, we went upstairs for the signing. In line, a woman was selling 8x10 prints from the pilot. Granted, they were signing a free poster at the table, but we couldn't resist the image she was offering.<br />
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It was so cool looking and we felt like it was a little bit better looking than the poster they had so we each bought one. We got up to see them and we both gushed and geeked out at the actors and producer. I told Amell, "Dude this show blew me away! I can't wait for more!" He thanked me and I asked if he could sign the 8x10 as well as the poster. One of the DC volunteers tried to stop us and said, "Um he's only signing the poster!" But Amell and I disagreed. I said, "Well, he said yes and he's signing it!" Amell laughed and said, "I mean you're already in line! What are they gonna do?" At that moment I knew this guy was awesome not just on screen but in real life. I met Holland and told her she was adorable. She blushed and thanked me. I told Cassidy that I think she looked better as a brunette. She also blushed and thanked me. When I got to Guggenheim I told him that I was the one that said the show looked like <i>The Dark Knight</i>. He said, "Ah yes! You were my favorite question at the panel!" We talked a little bit about the <i>Green Lantern </i>film and he agreed to sign not just the <i>Arrow </i>poster but the free <i>Arrow </i>comic DC had produced over the summer to promote the series. My sister and I walked away feeling like we had had a great experience that day.<br />
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Ever since that day, <i>Arrow </i>has been a regular fixture in my life. When my ex-fiancee left me, <i>Arrow </i>was a constant comfort during a very difficult time. When I moved away from my home in North Carolina, <i>Arrow </i>season 3 was there. I could watch it in real life with my sister, as opposed to just texting about it later. I could watch the Flash v Arrow episode with my nephew and he was excited to see the two heroes on screen together. Granted, he wasn't as excited as me but he was close ;)<br />
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When I left Pittsburgh and came back to my home of Erie, <i>Arrow </i>was still there. Now season four may not have had the best episodes that seasons 1 and 2 had, but it still got me excited every week. And now we're in season 5. So far this season has been superb and the crossover looks to be the type of episodes I was secretly hoping for back during season 1 when it was a "grounded, vigilante, street justice show."<br />
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I don't know if Stephen Amell, Greg Berlanti, Marc Guggenheim, Katie Cassidy, or whoever else will ever read this but I just wanted to offer a very sincere thank you. <i>Arrow </i>is one of my all time favorite TV shows and one that I will defend to the death every day of my life. I've met Stephen Amell twice at different Comic Cons and I'm hoping to see more of the cast during other Comic Cons. I'm confident that we'll see more <i>Arrow </i>during the next few years whether it's during guest spots on <i>The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow, </i>or heck even <i>Supergirl</i>. And I can't freaking wait!<br />
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What a terrible picture of me . . . But Amell and my sister look great!<br />
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Till Next Time!<br />
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JJ - the Comic Junkie!For Comic Junkieshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01296275699879198260noreply@blogger.com0