If you're any geek worth your salt, I'm sure you've heard of this movie. For those of you who aren't worth your salt, allow me to enlighten you.
Back in 2001 (or so), visionary director Tommy Wiseau released an epic upon the world. His movie, full of drugs, sex, infidelity, and friendship, is one of the worst things ever made. And it's amazing for it.
It's quite a feat to balance all of that badness into one perfect movie, but some how Wiseau pulls it off. It's random, indecipherable, and just generally unintentionally hilarious. If you get a chance, you have to check it out.
If you're in the LA area, you're in the best place to see it. The last Saturday of every month (like today!) there's a huge screening, complete with rabid fans and Q&As with the man himself. It's one of the best midnight movies I've ever been a part of, and totally something everyone should experience. Just remember to bring spoons.
This week's clip is, to me, the essence of the movie. It might not be the most quotable scene, but it shows the insane filmmaking ability that is Tommy Wiseau. Enjoy.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The Bill July 29, 2010
Wait. Do you mean to tell me that Comic Con doesn't constitute a holiday that delays the books a day? Crazy.
Well whatever, here you go a day late, the ever evolving Platypus Robot reviews:
So here's the deal, I didn't get that many books this week (three to be exact) so I'm going to alter the format a bit and focus on one of my favorite characters, Frankencastle, who appeared in the majority. Currently he's embroiled in a crossover with Dark Wolverine as a sort of climax to the whole Daken-Carved-Me-Up-And-Made-Me-Into-A-Monster story line.
The Weakest Part:
Dark Wolverine # 88
Writers: Daniel Way and Marjorie Liu
Artists: Stephen Segovia and Paco Diaz
Maybe it's because it's the first part of the crossover, maybe it's because Way and Liu don't know how to write Frankencastle, but I found this issue lacking. The action's there, but I had some random issues just falling into the story and generally following the action.
That said, the start of the fight between our two combatants was pretty amazing. Watching Daken basically flirt his way through the fight was all kinds of awesome. I don't think I want to admit it, but I think I like Daken and hope he stays around...
Shudder. Who am I becoming?
Also, I gotta say that Segovia does a great rendition of Frankencastle. It's not goofy looking like Tony Moore's, but not as awkward as other artists make it look. Frank looks like something you don't want to mess with, a visage that most artists miss.
The Best Part:
Frankencastle #19
Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Tony Moore
Okay so this is kind of unfair. Not only is this issue mostly just a bloody, no-holds barred, knock-down, drag-out fight scene, but it's drawn by Tony Moore who just goes all out in this ish; It was going to be the best of the week regardless.
As for the story, what's more to say? It's the big rematch that we all wanted to see since Frank was sliced to bits and it doesn't hold anything back. Daken is crushed by a car, burned alive, hit by a train, impaled (TWICE!) all while having to endure the toughest of tough guy lines from Frank. It's all kinds of fun and it makes me even more sad that the title's ending in three months. BOO-URNS!
Personally I can't wait for the next couple of parts of this crossover, because given what I've seen so far, it's only going to get bloodier. And that's a great thing.
Alright, that's all I got for you. If you want me to gush more about Frankencastle or if you really want to hear about how I'm digging Thor: The Mighty Avenger, I just might indulge if you ask me real nice in the comments.
Who am I kidding? I'll probably be gushing about it at some point anyway regardless.
Well whatever, here you go a day late, the ever evolving Platypus Robot reviews:
So here's the deal, I didn't get that many books this week (three to be exact) so I'm going to alter the format a bit and focus on one of my favorite characters, Frankencastle, who appeared in the majority. Currently he's embroiled in a crossover with Dark Wolverine as a sort of climax to the whole Daken-Carved-Me-Up-And-Made-Me-Into-A-Monster story line.
The Weakest Part:
Dark Wolverine # 88Writers: Daniel Way and Marjorie Liu
Artists: Stephen Segovia and Paco Diaz
Maybe it's because it's the first part of the crossover, maybe it's because Way and Liu don't know how to write Frankencastle, but I found this issue lacking. The action's there, but I had some random issues just falling into the story and generally following the action.
That said, the start of the fight between our two combatants was pretty amazing. Watching Daken basically flirt his way through the fight was all kinds of awesome. I don't think I want to admit it, but I think I like Daken and hope he stays around...
Shudder. Who am I becoming?
Also, I gotta say that Segovia does a great rendition of Frankencastle. It's not goofy looking like Tony Moore's, but not as awkward as other artists make it look. Frank looks like something you don't want to mess with, a visage that most artists miss.
The Best Part:
Frankencastle #19Writer: Rick Remender
Artist: Tony Moore
Okay so this is kind of unfair. Not only is this issue mostly just a bloody, no-holds barred, knock-down, drag-out fight scene, but it's drawn by Tony Moore who just goes all out in this ish; It was going to be the best of the week regardless.
As for the story, what's more to say? It's the big rematch that we all wanted to see since Frank was sliced to bits and it doesn't hold anything back. Daken is crushed by a car, burned alive, hit by a train, impaled (TWICE!) all while having to endure the toughest of tough guy lines from Frank. It's all kinds of fun and it makes me even more sad that the title's ending in three months. BOO-URNS!
Personally I can't wait for the next couple of parts of this crossover, because given what I've seen so far, it's only going to get bloodier. And that's a great thing.
Alright, that's all I got for you. If you want me to gush more about Frankencastle or if you really want to hear about how I'm digging Thor: The Mighty Avenger, I just might indulge if you ask me real nice in the comments.
Who am I kidding? I'll probably be gushing about it at some point anyway regardless.
Thor Strikes SDCC
Guess what popped up online today? If you read the title of this post, I'm sure you have a pretty good idea.
Looks pretty awesome, I think. However, I still think Thor is going to be a really hard sell and/or might be a big ol' bomb.
It's nothing against Thor, or his fans, but I just just don't see him setting the pop culture landscape on fire. The weird mythology, the faux-Shakespearean English, the crazy magic stuff, it all adds up to a less than mainstream experience. We'll see what happens in May, I guess. Here's hoping I'm wrong.
UPDATE:
Well, looks like it got pulled down, too bad it was awesome while it lasted. I'll keep my eyes open for another link and repost it when I find it. In the meantime you should go enjoy this gallery of Thor stills.
Looks pretty awesome, I think. However, I still think Thor is going to be a really hard sell and/or might be a big ol' bomb.
It's nothing against Thor, or his fans, but I just just don't see him setting the pop culture landscape on fire. The weird mythology, the faux-Shakespearean English, the crazy magic stuff, it all adds up to a less than mainstream experience. We'll see what happens in May, I guess. Here's hoping I'm wrong.
UPDATE:
Well, looks like it got pulled down, too bad it was awesome while it lasted. I'll keep my eyes open for another link and repost it when I find it. In the meantime you should go enjoy this gallery of Thor stills.
Monday, July 26, 2010
There And Back Again: A SDCC Journey
Five days, a huge stack of comics, and a hundred fifty bucks later, I'm back to tell the tale of the San Diego Comic Con. They say that pictures are worth a thousand words, so just check out my haul:
Like most years it was overly big, overly crowded, and overly exhausting, but man was it good time. From the random celebrity sightings (Nathan Fillion! Joel Mchale! Graboski from LOST! Sean Patrick Flannery!) to the offsite shenanigans (Tron, Machete, Jackass 3d, Scott Pilgrim, take your pick), this year's Con was chock full of goodness for everyone. If you have any geek inclination, there's something there for you.
That said, I'm no stranger to the event, so I could tell that things felt a bit different this year. I don't want to go off on a rant about how Hollywood is ruining the con, but it's certainly changing things and not necessarily for the better. It's not just the influx of new fans or LA douches that just want to be seen; no, it's more how separated the Hollywood celebs are and the growing seperation of fan and celeb at this traditionally level event.
This notion really took hold when I was gathered around the Warner's booth to get a glimpse of the guys from Supernatural (shut up, it's an awesome show. Plus the GirlFriend wanted pics). Warner, along with a few other booths like CBS, built in a VIP section on their booth so the celebs could walk around unfettered by the teeming mob below who were just aching for a glance from these elites. It felt... I dunno, very Hollywood to be treated like a lesser person because I wasn't on a list or something.
I had similar occurrences at the Jackass 3D and the SyFy party. At Jackass 3D, the only reason I got in is because I knew someone with a clipboard. Meanwhile the SyFy party had a red carpet facsimile leading to it so the fans could cheer on their favorites, while their favorites got their drink on away from all them nerds.
That's not to say that there hasn't been parties like that in the past at Comic Con; But I hazard to guess that ten years ago those comic parties didn't have legions of security guards keeping out the fans.
It's become a weird event, The San Diego Comic Con. I've decided there are two ways to experience it. You either A- Stand in line for panels and get into maybe half of the ones you want to see, but make connections with your fellow geeks in line (I know I did in the one line I stood in) and get to see all the cool stuff; or B- Traverse the floor, experiencing the lifeblood of the con, spending lots of cash, and experiencing the insanity that is 140,000 people. While each way is ultimately satisfying, it's a choice that you didn't used to have to make while going to the Con. Personally I like a little bit of both, but I'm not about to sacrifice half my day at the place just to stand in line.
In the end, I really did have a great time and I can't wait to go next year. Even though next year will probably be even more stratified than this one. The only thing I hope is that the San Diego Comic Con stays in San Diego where it belongs.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The Bill July 21, 2010
Super super quick reviews tonight because everything was so great I just couldn't not say anything. So let's get to it!
Change of format too, I'm just going to rundown what I got and what I thought.
1- Avengers #3. Starting to fall into that Bendis I don't like where the story stagnates for three issues before an unsatisfactory ending. Maybe it would be a good idea to make your villains show up more than just a cameo in the first issue. Just saying.
2- Scott Pilgrim in his Finest Hour. Super great! I want to read them all in one sitting, just in case I missed anything, but I liked it. Even if I didn't totally get all that 'glow' nonsense.
3- Thunderbolts #146. I need this book to come out faster than once a month. The writing and art is super fantastic, one of the best books out there right now.
4- Prince of Power # 3. Whenever this thing comes out, I'm surprised at how clever it is. Case in point, my favorite page of the week and the aftermath of Amadeus getting the Egyptian goddess of destruction drunk:
What a fantastic way to kick off the convention. Speaking of, don't forget to follow me on twitter and/or try to run in to me on the floor. I think I'll be wearing my Aargvark shirt.
See you soon!
Change of format too, I'm just going to rundown what I got and what I thought.
1- Avengers #3. Starting to fall into that Bendis I don't like where the story stagnates for three issues before an unsatisfactory ending. Maybe it would be a good idea to make your villains show up more than just a cameo in the first issue. Just saying.
2- Scott Pilgrim in his Finest Hour. Super great! I want to read them all in one sitting, just in case I missed anything, but I liked it. Even if I didn't totally get all that 'glow' nonsense.
3- Thunderbolts #146. I need this book to come out faster than once a month. The writing and art is super fantastic, one of the best books out there right now.
4- Prince of Power # 3. Whenever this thing comes out, I'm surprised at how clever it is. Case in point, my favorite page of the week and the aftermath of Amadeus getting the Egyptian goddess of destruction drunk:
What a fantastic way to kick off the convention. Speaking of, don't forget to follow me on twitter and/or try to run in to me on the floor. I think I'll be wearing my Aargvark shirt.
See you soon!
Off to San Diego
Like most of the known comics-blogosphere, I'm off to the illustrious San Diego Comic Con this weekend. That being the case, I may not have a great ability to post any big articles or even give Scott Pilgrim vol. 6 a proper review (I'm sure it's going to be stellar though, how couldn't it be?).
Fret not, dear reader, I'm not totally leaving the internet this weekend. What with technology being what it is, I'm crossing over to the dark side and debuting a twitter account. It's here that I can give you live updates from the floor (mainly me complaining about how full it is) along with any exciting things that happen after hours. It should be a good time. I suggest you stop by and give me a follow or at least just check up on my 140-character ramblings. You can find me here: @PlatypusRobot
Also, if you happen to be in San Diego you should try to run into me. I'll be there all weekend, probably closer to Artist's Alley than the main super drag. That, or I'll be drooling over the new minimates that I hope Art Asylum debuts while we're there. I'll be the tall guy with a well kept beard and glasses. I'm sure you won't be able to miss me /sarcasm.
With that, I'm off. Finally the time is nigh to finish my Secret Defenders collection.
Fret not, dear reader, I'm not totally leaving the internet this weekend. What with technology being what it is, I'm crossing over to the dark side and debuting a twitter account. It's here that I can give you live updates from the floor (mainly me complaining about how full it is) along with any exciting things that happen after hours. It should be a good time. I suggest you stop by and give me a follow or at least just check up on my 140-character ramblings. You can find me here: @PlatypusRobot
Also, if you happen to be in San Diego you should try to run into me. I'll be there all weekend, probably closer to Artist's Alley than the main super drag. That, or I'll be drooling over the new minimates that I hope Art Asylum debuts while we're there. I'll be the tall guy with a well kept beard and glasses. I'm sure you won't be able to miss me /sarcasm.
With that, I'm off. Finally the time is nigh to finish my Secret Defenders collection.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Weekend Matinee: THE EDGE
I'm going camping this weekend.
It's not an activity that I would normally choose for myself, as I tend to be more of a city mouse than a country one, but I'm doing because all my friends are. Remember kids, peer pressure works. Also it's his 30th birthday, but that's neither here nor there.
So in celebration... No, that's not right, camping is never a celebration. So in honor (that's better) of me going camping, I present to you one of the greatest camping movies ever: The Edge.
This mid-to-late 90s gem had Alec Baldwin doing his best to not get swept away by Anthony Hopkins acting as they, I don't know, did some shit. Honestly I haven't seen this movie in years and I barely remember it. However, I will never forget the motivational speech therein. Speaking of:
Kill the bear. It's my new motto for life.
See you on Monday... unless I get lost in the woods.
It's not an activity that I would normally choose for myself, as I tend to be more of a city mouse than a country one, but I'm doing because all my friends are. Remember kids, peer pressure works. Also it's his 30th birthday, but that's neither here nor there.
So in celebration... No, that's not right, camping is never a celebration. So in honor (that's better) of me going camping, I present to you one of the greatest camping movies ever: The Edge.
This mid-to-late 90s gem had Alec Baldwin doing his best to not get swept away by Anthony Hopkins acting as they, I don't know, did some shit. Honestly I haven't seen this movie in years and I barely remember it. However, I will never forget the motivational speech therein. Speaking of:
Kill the bear. It's my new motto for life.
See you on Monday... unless I get lost in the woods.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Rock me to Valhalla
Is it just me or is a heavy metal rock opera about the Norse Gods fighting the Greek Gods long LONG overdue? It would be the epic of epics and utterly destroy our notion of blockbuster cinema.
I think I need to start a band.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
The Bill July 14, 2010
It was another light week for me this week, but I'm not going to let that stop me posting my thoughts for your perusal! Aren't you lucky! Let's get to it!
Best of the Week:
Avengers Academy # 2
Writer: Christos Gage
Artist: MIke Mckone
I'll be real honest with you, I was prepared to not collect this series. I kinda got roped into Avengers Initiative early on, and kept going for whatever reason, but when it ended, I thought it was my way out. I was totally ready to wash my hands clean of the "training young (but not Young) Avengers" books and find something new. And then they dropped the twist. Now I'm hooked.
Straight up, this is the book I wanted Avengers Initiative to be. It's a bunch of new and inexperienced heroes learning how to be actual superheroes, not just rank-and-file soldiers. And the twist, the twist just makes it sing.
SPOILERS for those of you who don't quite know yet, but as it turns out, these kids are poised to become the greatest super villains in the Marvel U if not correctly remolded at this age. And the kids know it! There's so much underlining tension to the book as the secrets pile on each other until eventually noone's being real. I'm loving it!
This issue got us into the head of the teams local know-it-all/super-woman Finesse as she learns about the personal politics of her teachers and uses that to her advantage. She's conniving, smart, and down right dangerous; I'm really excited to see where they take her.
It's a great book that's quickly rising to the top of my 'to read' list every month. I suggest you all go out and buy it so it doesn't get cancelled and I don't get sad. You wouldn't like me when I'm sad.
Disappointment of the Week:
Scott Pilgrim's Finest Hour
Writer/Artist: Bryan Lee O'Malley
What's this doing here you ask? Shouldn't you love Scott Pilgrim with all of your heart? Haven't you even said so in the past?
All those things are overly true, which is why I was wholly disappointed when I went to my LCS to grab a copy, but they weren't allowed to sell it. "We got'em in," the guy behind the counter told me, "but we can't sell'em until next Wednesday. It's stupid."
Oh, how stupid it was. I was so super-jazzed about being all Scott Pilgrim'd tonight, I didn't even stop to think it wouldn't happen. But alas, here I am drowning my sorrows in cold pizza and Sierra Nevada.
At least Sierra Nevada will never disappoint me.
Meanwhile the countdown to book six starts now. Only six more days... sigh.
Bada-bing, we're done. Comments, questions, concerns, or compliments always welcome, and if you ask real nice I might tell you what I thought of Girl Comics # 3. Even if you're not real nice I might tell you. See y'all next week!
Best of the Week:
Avengers Academy # 2Writer: Christos Gage
Artist: MIke Mckone
I'll be real honest with you, I was prepared to not collect this series. I kinda got roped into Avengers Initiative early on, and kept going for whatever reason, but when it ended, I thought it was my way out. I was totally ready to wash my hands clean of the "training young (but not Young) Avengers" books and find something new. And then they dropped the twist. Now I'm hooked.
Straight up, this is the book I wanted Avengers Initiative to be. It's a bunch of new and inexperienced heroes learning how to be actual superheroes, not just rank-and-file soldiers. And the twist, the twist just makes it sing.
SPOILERS for those of you who don't quite know yet, but as it turns out, these kids are poised to become the greatest super villains in the Marvel U if not correctly remolded at this age. And the kids know it! There's so much underlining tension to the book as the secrets pile on each other until eventually noone's being real. I'm loving it!
This issue got us into the head of the teams local know-it-all/super-woman Finesse as she learns about the personal politics of her teachers and uses that to her advantage. She's conniving, smart, and down right dangerous; I'm really excited to see where they take her.
It's a great book that's quickly rising to the top of my 'to read' list every month. I suggest you all go out and buy it so it doesn't get cancelled and I don't get sad. You wouldn't like me when I'm sad.
Disappointment of the Week:
Scott Pilgrim's Finest Hour Writer/Artist: Bryan Lee O'Malley
What's this doing here you ask? Shouldn't you love Scott Pilgrim with all of your heart? Haven't you even said so in the past?
All those things are overly true, which is why I was wholly disappointed when I went to my LCS to grab a copy, but they weren't allowed to sell it. "We got'em in," the guy behind the counter told me, "but we can't sell'em until next Wednesday. It's stupid."
Oh, how stupid it was. I was so super-jazzed about being all Scott Pilgrim'd tonight, I didn't even stop to think it wouldn't happen. But alas, here I am drowning my sorrows in cold pizza and Sierra Nevada.
At least Sierra Nevada will never disappoint me.
Meanwhile the countdown to book six starts now. Only six more days... sigh.
Bada-bing, we're done. Comments, questions, concerns, or compliments always welcome, and if you ask real nice I might tell you what I thought of Girl Comics # 3. Even if you're not real nice I might tell you. See y'all next week!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Your Monthly Dose of Throg July 2010
Honestly, after a disappointing last issue, and a sorely lacking special issue, I was worried that Throg's awesomeness was waning. I was worried that the awesome exploits of my favorite frog of thunder might be coming to an end, replaced by introspection and stupid feelings.
And then I caught the last issue of Thor and The Warriors Four (or caught it on The Weekly Crisis, whatever), where my favorite Avengers team stumbled into the fray. Literally.
And gave us the meeting we've dreamed of seeing: Throg and Beta Ray Bill.
I'm going on record, right now, saying that if that team up book ever came out I would buy a hundred copies myself. *
*This may or may not be true.
And then I caught the last issue of Thor and The Warriors Four (or caught it on The Weekly Crisis, whatever), where my favorite Avengers team stumbled into the fray. Literally.
And gave us the meeting we've dreamed of seeing: Throg and Beta Ray Bill.
I'm going on record, right now, saying that if that team up book ever came out I would buy a hundred copies myself. *
*This may or may not be true.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Weekend Matinee: LAMBADA
Lambada, in which dancing is used for good, instead of evil.
To tell you the truth, I've never seen this movie (Hell, I never heard of it until this week) but once I saw this scene I knew I had to share it.
Apparently the movie is about a teacher in Beverly Hills who spends his days in high school and his nights on the dance floor, until one day the two worlds collide and everything is forever changed. Except you'd never know it from this week's clip.
Make sure you do some stretches before you start it, because once you hear these sweet jams you're gonna want to shake that booty.
Man, is there anything computers can't do?
To tell you the truth, I've never seen this movie (Hell, I never heard of it until this week) but once I saw this scene I knew I had to share it.
Apparently the movie is about a teacher in Beverly Hills who spends his days in high school and his nights on the dance floor, until one day the two worlds collide and everything is forever changed. Except you'd never know it from this week's clip.
Make sure you do some stretches before you start it, because once you hear these sweet jams you're gonna want to shake that booty.
Man, is there anything computers can't do?
Thursday, July 8, 2010
The Bill July 8, 2010
Wednesdays after holidays make me sad. We're living in the future here people, you'd think they'd figure out how to make sure I get my comics on time and not a day late because of some random day off.
The politician who figures out the solution to that problem will have my vote for life. Just sayin'...
Anyway, a day late and a dollar short, it's time for your new favorite reviews: The Bill!
Best of the Week:
Avengers: The Children's Crusade
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist: Jim Cheung
Can you believe it's been five years since Young Avengers # 1 came out? And consequently, that these characters have been in a holding pattern for the better part of three years? It's nuts! Thankfully, that all changes this week.
Finally, after getting all of his TV work out of the way, Allan Heinberg has returned for the next chapter in the Young Avengers' lives and it's pure honey.
Well, mostly anyway. He kinda ignores the fact that Cassie and the Vision were on an actual Avengers team for a while, not to mention that the whole gang were on opposite sides of the Registration debate, but whatever it's water under the bridge, right?
The story picks up as the team is facing off against the Sons of Serpents and Wiccan goes supernova to defeat them. Given his supposed connection to The Scarlet Witch, the big name Avengers are a (understandably) bit spooked and want to run a few tests. The ol' YA decide to fuck that noise and bust out in order to get all the answers they seek from the lady herself.
In all, it was a great, solid, first issue. Maybe not as great as the first first issue, but still pretty entertaining. Throw in some fabulous work from Jimmy Cheung (why hasn't he done a big crossover yet? He should) with great character interplay, and you got me hooked.
Too bad it's bi-monthly. See you in 60, Young Avengers!
Worst of the Week:
Tails of the Pet Avengers: The Dogs of Summer
Writer: Chris Eliopoulos
Artist: Chris Eliopoulos and Ig Guara
Wanna know what really gets my goat? False advertising.
Silly me, I thought I'd pick up this issue and get some great done-in-one Pet Avenger action, but I thought wrong. Instead it was a Franklin Richards-a-thon, with only fleeting glimpses of my favorite non-human heroes. WTF Marvel? I want my furry heroes.
Don't get me wrong, the Franklin stuff is cute and fun, but it was not what I was expecting. If it was: Tails of the Pet Avengers meets Franklin Richards Son of a Genius OR Franklin Richards: Heavy Petting, I would totally understand. As it is, there is no mention of Franklin on the cover, and nothing but on the inside.
Also, as a quick aside, why are we calling him Frog Thor now? Throg was WAY cooler and more clever in a not-so-clever-but-fun kind of way.
Extremely disappointing.
And so it goes. If you want to hear about anything else I bought (Like the sweet as Christmas Mandarin minimate) let me know. Otherwise, I'll catch you guys later.
The politician who figures out the solution to that problem will have my vote for life. Just sayin'...
Anyway, a day late and a dollar short, it's time for your new favorite reviews: The Bill!
Best of the Week:
Avengers: The Children's Crusade
Writer: Allan Heinberg
Artist: Jim Cheung
Can you believe it's been five years since Young Avengers # 1 came out? And consequently, that these characters have been in a holding pattern for the better part of three years? It's nuts! Thankfully, that all changes this week.
Finally, after getting all of his TV work out of the way, Allan Heinberg has returned for the next chapter in the Young Avengers' lives and it's pure honey.
Well, mostly anyway. He kinda ignores the fact that Cassie and the Vision were on an actual Avengers team for a while, not to mention that the whole gang were on opposite sides of the Registration debate, but whatever it's water under the bridge, right?
The story picks up as the team is facing off against the Sons of Serpents and Wiccan goes supernova to defeat them. Given his supposed connection to The Scarlet Witch, the big name Avengers are a (understandably) bit spooked and want to run a few tests. The ol' YA decide to fuck that noise and bust out in order to get all the answers they seek from the lady herself.
In all, it was a great, solid, first issue. Maybe not as great as the first first issue, but still pretty entertaining. Throw in some fabulous work from Jimmy Cheung (why hasn't he done a big crossover yet? He should) with great character interplay, and you got me hooked.
Too bad it's bi-monthly. See you in 60, Young Avengers!
Worst of the Week:
Tails of the Pet Avengers: The Dogs of Summer
Writer: Chris Eliopoulos
Artist: Chris Eliopoulos and Ig Guara
Wanna know what really gets my goat? False advertising.
Silly me, I thought I'd pick up this issue and get some great done-in-one Pet Avenger action, but I thought wrong. Instead it was a Franklin Richards-a-thon, with only fleeting glimpses of my favorite non-human heroes. WTF Marvel? I want my furry heroes.
Don't get me wrong, the Franklin stuff is cute and fun, but it was not what I was expecting. If it was: Tails of the Pet Avengers meets Franklin Richards Son of a Genius OR Franklin Richards: Heavy Petting, I would totally understand. As it is, there is no mention of Franklin on the cover, and nothing but on the inside.
Also, as a quick aside, why are we calling him Frog Thor now? Throg was WAY cooler and more clever in a not-so-clever-but-fun kind of way.
Extremely disappointing.
And so it goes. If you want to hear about anything else I bought (Like the sweet as Christmas Mandarin minimate) let me know. Otherwise, I'll catch you guys later.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
What If The Flash Got Fat?
This Anti-Fatty PSA brought to you buy Flash #115
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Weekend Matinee: INDEPENDENCE DAY
Is there any other option for this weekend? Really?
Confession time: This is one of my favorite movies of all time. I know it's kinda cheesy, full of plot holes, and a little long in the middle, but I can't help but to love it. I'll never forget the trailers for this thing, the image of hundreds of fighter jets streaking across the sky towards some huge mothership will be forever ingrained in my mind. It came out in that magical time when I was 13 or so and helped jump start the huge summer blockbuster, and for me, set the standard.
As a quick aside, I've always been baffled that they never made a sequel. In an era when every moderate or better hit get some kind of sequel, be them theatrical or direct-to-DVD, this one seems to hit the Hollywood blindspot. It's almost as if everyone forgot it existed right after it came out, even though I'm pretty sure it made a big splash. Or maybe it was just in my neck of the woods.
Anyway, the clip this week is THE clip from the movie. Bill Pullman, as one of the best movie presidents ever, rallies the troops before their suicide mission against the aliens in one of the greatest movie speeches of all time.
OF ALL TIME!
It always gives my goosebumps. Have a happy Fourth!
Confession time: This is one of my favorite movies of all time. I know it's kinda cheesy, full of plot holes, and a little long in the middle, but I can't help but to love it. I'll never forget the trailers for this thing, the image of hundreds of fighter jets streaking across the sky towards some huge mothership will be forever ingrained in my mind. It came out in that magical time when I was 13 or so and helped jump start the huge summer blockbuster, and for me, set the standard.
As a quick aside, I've always been baffled that they never made a sequel. In an era when every moderate or better hit get some kind of sequel, be them theatrical or direct-to-DVD, this one seems to hit the Hollywood blindspot. It's almost as if everyone forgot it existed right after it came out, even though I'm pretty sure it made a big splash. Or maybe it was just in my neck of the woods.
Anyway, the clip this week is THE clip from the movie. Bill Pullman, as one of the best movie presidents ever, rallies the troops before their suicide mission against the aliens in one of the greatest movie speeches of all time.
OF ALL TIME!
It always gives my goosebumps. Have a happy Fourth!
Friday, July 2, 2010
Meet Your New Spider-Man
In 2012, you will believe that Spider-Man is British.
Today Sony revealed who was taking over the role as our favorite wall-crawler: 26 (or 27, depending on your source) year old British actor Andrew Garfield. Check it out:
Not a bad likeness, I must say. Honestly, he wasn't my first choice (actually, I didn't know he was in the running) but he's totally a better fit than Jamie Bell. I do think it's pretty funny though that in this younger Spidey reboot, they cast a guy who was as old as Tobey McGuire was in the first one. That's just silly.
Anyway, I did some searching for y'all and I found this great clip of the guy taking e and dancing. After watching this, I think he'll be great as Peter.
Now here's hoping that this new movie is better than the last.
Today Sony revealed who was taking over the role as our favorite wall-crawler: 26 (or 27, depending on your source) year old British actor Andrew Garfield. Check it out:
Not a bad likeness, I must say. Honestly, he wasn't my first choice (actually, I didn't know he was in the running) but he's totally a better fit than Jamie Bell. I do think it's pretty funny though that in this younger Spidey reboot, they cast a guy who was as old as Tobey McGuire was in the first one. That's just silly.
Anyway, I did some searching for y'all and I found this great clip of the guy taking e and dancing. After watching this, I think he'll be great as Peter.
Now here's hoping that this new movie is better than the last.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Wonder Duds
Hey, did you hear that Wonder Woman is getting a new costume? Oh. Everyone's talking about it? Huh. I better join the convo then, otherwise they'll revoke my blogger card.
So hey, here are the new togs:
Is it bad that I don't think it's a bad costume?
I got in a conversation with The GirlFriend last night about this new change of wardrobe. From her non-comics reading perspective, it's offensive. It's ugly, generic, and just plain doesn't look like Wonder Woman.
I asked, is it really a problem if it doesn't look like Wonder Woman?
I, for one, think it's kinda nice that she's not fighting crime in a bathing suit anymore. I always thought it was strange that a character that's supposed to empower women was objectified as much as she was. The legs that just wouldn't stop, the boobs that could kill a man, the impossibly long and styled hair; she was a pin-up model at best. Sure this new costume is a bit generic, but at least it'll allow her to be more than just legs and boobies.
Full disclosure: I have issues with Wonder Woman; I don't understand why she's so popular. From what I see, the only reason she has the following she does is because of how long she's been around, not because of any compelling characteristics. Somewhere along the way she became a symbol of the strong, independent woman, but did nothing to really earn it.
When I think of all the big iconic heroes (Spider-Man, Superman, Batman, etc) I can sum up their origins in a sentence. To me, that's what makes them iconic; They're simple, yet effective, ideas that appeal to and inspire a wide range of readers. Wonder Woman is the opposite of this idea, yet is somehow still iconic. How is that possible? It reeks of token-ism.
Female heroes have it bad enough as it is, I really want their premiere example to have more to her than just a legacy. I want Wonder Woman to have a simple, iconic origin (seriously, is she a god? isn't she? Is she made of clay? ect.) that people can identify with more than just, "oh, she's a strong woman." Peter Parker is popular because he can be any of us, Bruce Wayne too (assuming you have the money). Hell, Superman is the ultimate immigrant story, who comes to America and excels against all odds. I want Wonder Woman to have that too.
Here's hoping that with the new costume and the re-fangled origin story that that happens. This new costume represents a chance for Wonder Woman to really earn that place in the DC Pantheon that she was handed.
But who am I kidding, with retro-fanatics like Didio and Johns at the helm of DC, I give this new direction maybe three years before she goes back to the same ol' Diana.
So hey, here are the new togs:
Is it bad that I don't think it's a bad costume?
I got in a conversation with The GirlFriend last night about this new change of wardrobe. From her non-comics reading perspective, it's offensive. It's ugly, generic, and just plain doesn't look like Wonder Woman.
I asked, is it really a problem if it doesn't look like Wonder Woman?
I, for one, think it's kinda nice that she's not fighting crime in a bathing suit anymore. I always thought it was strange that a character that's supposed to empower women was objectified as much as she was. The legs that just wouldn't stop, the boobs that could kill a man, the impossibly long and styled hair; she was a pin-up model at best. Sure this new costume is a bit generic, but at least it'll allow her to be more than just legs and boobies.
Full disclosure: I have issues with Wonder Woman; I don't understand why she's so popular. From what I see, the only reason she has the following she does is because of how long she's been around, not because of any compelling characteristics. Somewhere along the way she became a symbol of the strong, independent woman, but did nothing to really earn it.
When I think of all the big iconic heroes (Spider-Man, Superman, Batman, etc) I can sum up their origins in a sentence. To me, that's what makes them iconic; They're simple, yet effective, ideas that appeal to and inspire a wide range of readers. Wonder Woman is the opposite of this idea, yet is somehow still iconic. How is that possible? It reeks of token-ism.
Female heroes have it bad enough as it is, I really want their premiere example to have more to her than just a legacy. I want Wonder Woman to have a simple, iconic origin (seriously, is she a god? isn't she? Is she made of clay? ect.) that people can identify with more than just, "oh, she's a strong woman." Peter Parker is popular because he can be any of us, Bruce Wayne too (assuming you have the money). Hell, Superman is the ultimate immigrant story, who comes to America and excels against all odds. I want Wonder Woman to have that too.
Here's hoping that with the new costume and the re-fangled origin story that that happens. This new costume represents a chance for Wonder Woman to really earn that place in the DC Pantheon that she was handed.
But who am I kidding, with retro-fanatics like Didio and Johns at the helm of DC, I give this new direction maybe three years before she goes back to the same ol' Diana.
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