There is a tiger, and Greendale

And now for your weekend viewing, check these two titles out. One now a cult classic, the second also a cult classic. See where I'm going with this?!

The Hangover
Legendary Pictures
Directed by Todd Phillips
2009

The Wolfpack – An ensemble cast consisting of awesome talent only to take on the crazy journey that is Vegas. Things go wrong like: with a day before a wedding, with a groom nowhere to be found. This film has been called a classic since it came out in 2009. With the 3^rd now in theaters, relive the journey, the adventure, and the laughter.

But in case you missed it, this bundle of fun stars: Ed Helms, Zack G. (name is too hard to type), Bradley Cooper, Justin Bartha, and Ken Jeong  (just to name a few) with tons of familiar faces that make up the rest of the cast.

I believe what made this series work is its sense of humor, concept, and all around mission to see a set of friends take on anything. There is just something awesome about this Wolfpack. To see them wreck everything, and somehow bond over the worst moments.  If you’ve seen it, watch it again. First timer? You are in for a treat.

Community Season Uno
NBC / Universal / Sony
2009

Welcome to Greendale -
Joel McHale plays a former lawyer, now turned community college student. After a bad stint, with his degree being a total dud. Now he must seek retribution by starting over. By bonding with a bunch of misfits in no particular order: Britta – the rebel without a cause (Gillian Jacobs), Annie – the soft spoken one that will lead the force versus the zombies (Allison Brie), Shirley – the heartfelt Christian mom with a noble heart (Yvette Nicole Brown), Abad – the unknown wild card (Danny Pudi), Troy – the man with a destiny (Donald Glover), and Pierce – former businessman tycoon, now rebuilding his life(Chevy Chase)
**and many more (plus lots of guest stars!)

This series redefines the word comedy, with its distinguished take on the meaning. Bringing together an awesome array of talent, with witty characters, and a story that is simple as pie. (not that pi) A set of twenty-five episodes delivers awesome laughs, and the season finale that left fans wondering. “Where do we go from here?”

On dvd, there is the utter joy of no commercials. Every episode contains peanuts, and is quite yummy. But there is a bunch of extra goodies in this first season set. With commentary on every episode; outtakes on each disc,  more bonus items. These goodies are definitely for the fans, because this is awesome stuff.

Follow the journey every Thursday this fall. With the return of Season V this fall!

Underwater, There are cookies, and Street Art Frenchman

Just in time for your Memorial day weekend, some films you might want to see!

The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
Comedy
Directed by Wes Anderson

Ever dreamt of exploring the ocean blue? With Steve Zissou, an independent film maker / oceanology. Along with a brave crew, venture towards unexplored territory. Only to lose a faithful crew member to a strange Jaguar Shark; seeking new faces, with a journalist and a pilot (who may or may not be Zissou’s son).  Taking on challenges like: trust with his team, to fighting pirates, and finding out what his real mission truly is. The high seas will never be the same.

Starring an all star cast with a name like Bill Murray (Zissou), Owen Wilson (his son), Anjelica Houston (Zissou’s wife), Willem Dafoe (Klaus), and Jeff Goldblum (rival explorer Hennessy).

Salvation Boulevard
Comedy
Directed by George Ratliff

What do you believe in? Take evangelical belief, mix with a slight bit of entrepreneur, shake, serve. Only one problem, can it really become the biggest religion ever? At what odds will a leader go to any limits for himself (and congregation?) Wouldn’t expect a comedy covering this type of tale, but it works on so many levels.

 The stand alone guy - Greg Kinnear plays the usual everyday guy / ex dead head. The fearless leader – played by Pierce Brosnan, wants to take his congregation to a new level, a full fledged dream built city. And the unbeliever – Ed Harris (a writer / thinker). Along with an ensemble cast, this tale unfolds in so many directions.  It Is so tough to define this film, its smart, witty, clever, and surprising on what goes on beyond the pulpit of a megachurch.


Exit Through the Gift Shop – A Banksy Film
CBS Films

From self expression comes art, from art comes the unexplored territory. Street Art cannot be defined by simple terms, its art in motion, yet its illegal to speak your mind. No matter where these artists leave behind their message, It will find its audience. Throughout this piece, it comes from the viewpoint of a man behind a camera (Thierry Guetta), on a journey to find his purpose in life. Following a set of artists, the tale unravels in directions of intrigue, suspense, action, and drama. (oh and some laughs)

Is it a film? Made up? Not sure, but it does explore the underworld of Graffiti Art. Past, present, and its uncharted future. Across the world, every artist has a tale to tell, and a faithful being bent on helping them express their dreams. (except one problem, the guy has a wife and family!?) 

For anyone who has ever glimpsed upon street art, and wondered (“Where di d that come from?”) This is the film that explains it all, and then more tales of what goes behind the scenes. **Or for a fun alternative, gamers that enjoyed Jet Set Radio, where predominantly its message was using street art as self expression, much as the same way the artists in this doc also do so.

This is a film for anyone to watch, and learn something refreshing about what makes art. And find out something about human nature, that can’t always be expressed through words alone

From A Canary, to a Puddin'

I present two graphic novel reviews today. Both are from the "New 52" line, but a bit darker than most fans will remember. What type of audience is DC going for? Do tell, but I like where its going.

Birds of Prey Vol 1 – Trouble in Mind (New 52)
2011/2012
Written by Duane Swierczynski
Art by Jesus Saiz

With the aftermath of Darkest Night, and Brightest Day, the Birds of Prey crew has prided itself on protecting their home. Now up against an unknown enemy, Black Canary sends the message out for “heroes for hire”. A new team is assembled, the new crew is:
1) Team leader – Black Canary = After the loss of her husband, Green Arrow, she has lead a life of healing, taking out any adversary that crosses her wing (even if it’s a friend).
2) Batgirl = With her healing factor in check, Babs has regained her strength and stamina to reclaim her title as Batgirl. While still working alongside the “Family of the Cowl”, she also operates with her longtime friend / sister Black Canary
3) Starling = A former op, who now works alongside BC on various intel. Although she has a past no one is quite sure of, she can be trusted and loves clonking bad guys.
4) Katana = A lone swords (uh I mean woman) who lost her husband to the Yakuza. (*and also believes her husband’s soul is embedded within her sword.
5) Poison Ivy = No longer locked up Arkham Asylum, she has been recruited to join the team. In the long run, her powers have been amplified like never before. But one question remains, can anyone trust Ivy?

So that’s a short and sweet summary, but BOP is one badass (shut yo mouth) crew like no other. This new team is a bit more aggressive, smart, sassy and sweet. The writing is clever, yet retains a bit of the “Detective Comics” charm. Each issue actually moves back and forth throughout their mission(s). Even halfway into the book, time has been lost and it’s up to the crew to figure out who or what set them up in the first place.

Overall, this is an awesome restart of the series, and fans of the old series will fall in love all over again.
(*note it is a bit more violent than the past run, so for those who love some bumps and bruises, this one is for you.)

Suicide Squad – Vol 1 Kicked in the Teeth (New 52)
Written by Adam Glass
Art by Dallocchio & Friends
2011/2012

Bad guys assemble! -
So there was this book awhile back where villains were put in some dark situations. Some lived, some died, or turned opposite sides. It became a super whodunit without the good guys. But are all the bad guys truly evil?

In the past, it was pretty garish and harsh for some readers. Oddly enough DC Comics rebooted the series on an evolved level that will scare the pants of new and old fans. And some of the characters do get axed! (think DC is kidding?) (*Just to note, the events in this series, happen right after Batman RIP. If you haven’t read that mini-series before this, stop and go check it out.)

Deadshot, Harley (yes Joker’s puddin’), King Shark, El Diablo (just to name a few). Become a part of the new Task Force X, notorious in missions and getting them done. But with their lives on the line, even some of the team members begin to question whether this gig is worth it. There are no superheroes in this tale, it is all on the villains to pick up the slack with the good guys saving the day elsewhere.

This book is notoriously dark, moody, and sometimes comedic. But when it comes to scenes of brutish aggression, this series does not hold back. (so please don’t drink or eat while reading this book, King Shark is hungry). Plus like the classic run, this title is definitely not for kids to be reading. There are some serious themes, sexual, violent, messy, and lots of ketchup. (putting it lightly)

Each issue covers the team in unique fashions, from truth and consequences, to their boss barking orders. If anyone disobeys, they meet a dismal end (and it doesn’t matter what side they’re on). From a zombie attack: to Harley’s quest to find her puddin’. This book is a series that any fan of the dark side of comics will definitely find worth a read. (plus its being pushed as an ongoing series! Even crossing over!?) Oh yeah, they went there, and taking their readers along for the ride.

*I am so not kidding about the ketchup, you could fill tons of bottles. Just need fries.

Criminal Minds S8 - The Puppet Master

Criminal Minds S8
2012-2013
“What Goes Around, Comes Around” ZUGZWANG

Over the past eight season, CM has redefined the psychological thriller. Some stories make us cringe, others make us excited. Every season has been intense, including the season finales. But this season finds itself in so many different direction, its always best to be one step ahead. I actually recall something from the Ghost in the Shell manga related to this season. But I will explain in detail through this review.

Who is the villain? All season long its explored that there is a group working against the BAU team. Some from the past, present, and within their place they call home. With every twist and turn along with a new member, they find themselves learning more about one another they weren’t aware of before.  But before the unveiling, there is truth hidden in each case, till the last two part season finale that could wrap up everything.

Who is not what they seem? For those eight years, they have known only one another, trust, faith, integrity and understanding. Oddly enough the secrets begin to overlap what has been learned thus far. From each team member, finding out more about themselves (including their boss).

The Laughing Man – In the Ghost in the Shell series, it is explored that this mysterious character is the “puppeteer” behind the scenes. All seeing, all knowing being that is tied to everything that the crew of Section 9 serve and protect (a a lot like the BAU team in CM does routinely). Why did I choose this for a reference point? I have noticed that CM has taken many hints from various ideas, and blended them so well that the format is sound. Being a GITS fan really becomes more of a novelty, like CM it has aged well and redefined itself every time.

It becomes even more twisted that its… well if you haven’t read the manga / graphic novel. Its best you stop reading here. On a side note, CM has really matured in so many ways, yet still retains the level of entertainment that fans have come to know and love. (except CBS really needs to cut down on the commercial breaks)

Overall, for any CM fan, keep watching because there are more fun surprises in store.

It's not always fun and games

Presenting a trio of film reviews for you to watch this coming weekend:

According to Greta
West of Midnight / Anchor Bay Ent.
2008/2009
Hillary Duff, Michael Murphy, and Ellen Burstyn

How to go: First a book was written to give ideas, second acting on those “to do list” plans. 3^rd leave this world behind. But wait! Why does Greta want to leave? Well she is a bit depressed, filled with anxiety, and may be bi-polar. Nope might be the meds. How to cope? Why not build a relationship with grandparents? Can it be done?

For one, this isn’t a laugh comedy, its more of a drama, and surprisingly well done. In addition, its smart humor may make some chuckle, but its worth enjoying.

Dark Tide
Wrekin Hill
2012
Directed by John Stockwell
Halle Berry & Oliver Martinez

Water – Exploring the deep uncharted waters leaves unknown secrets. A team of explorers venture out towards the waters that contain many creatures beneath its waves. From an expedition gone awry, and recovery, this team will stop at nothing to capture nature’s true identity.

Fins – Is it horror or shock film? There seem to be a lot of freak out movies like this one. Containing chilling moments as a lone swimmer finds themselves in the worst spot, alone. Is it a growing trend? Hard to say, Jaws paved the way for sharks to receive harsh press, however it offered a resolution that the waters are hard to predict. Never knowing what may come from deep in the water.

Although it is a film worth watching, its hard to describe it. Documentary? Horror? Shark munchy human

Full Metal Alchemist – The Sacred Star of Milos
Funimation / FMA 2011 Committee

The journey – Finding new adventures, the two brothers Edward and Alphonse continue their quest to regain their identities. Now caught in the crossfire of two nations, one upon high, and the other lowest of existence. Power can be immersive, yet also corrupt. Another band of siblings also find themselves in the crosshairs of Alchemy, pledging to find their way to master their abilities.

I believe this tale takes place sometime before the last few episodes in the show. It does contain closure, but its also resolves their quest to find the “Philosopher Stone”, containing untapped energies that give its wielder vast power. Although they defy the odds, all of their quests put them to the test in this mission.

Boasting a 2 Disc edition, with all sorts of noteworthy goodies. If you’re an FMA fan, go for it!

Batman - The Night of the Owls

Batman – Night of the Owls
DC Comics
Writers: Scott Snyder, Kyle Higgins, Tony S. Daniel, (and many more)
Artists: Greg Capullo, Jon Glapion (and more)
2013

Courting fowl -
After the unveiling of the Owls headquarters, Batman overcame trials that challenged his detective instincts. Finding a way out, bruised although not beaten. Many of the Owls heralds sent out an armada of Talons:(the hunters) each given a task to track down the government of Gotham. Throughout this ongoing mini-series, it is unveiled through each chapter that history has a way of reclaiming its remains.


The family of the Bat -
Many years ago, the original team that conceived “The Dark Knight” as a anti-hero, yet smart, intelligent and a playboy. Throughout the years, the character Bruce Wayne was examined as the man behind the mask. As of late, Bruce Wayne’s families past become the highlight of the tale for once. Behind this diverse mystery contains various glyphs on how they differ, and relate to the place they protect. Whether in daylight, or nightfall, Gotham is center stage for the unveiling of what history has taught its dwellers.


The Great Division -
From past to present, Gotham was influence by powerful people. These generations of families wielded power, control, focus, and a mentality like all great civilizations. However, those behind the scenes shape of what’s to come, and the future. From the past, it rears its ugly head taking on all those who challenge it within the modern days. Gotham has forever been haunted by ghosts, and they cannot be extinguished, for their bloodline is actually their savior.


***Afterthoughts on Book II of the Owl saga: For the longest time I have been a Detective Comics fan, my grandma introduced me to the series when I was a young lad. One of the classic tales was a mixture of villains ganging up on Batman and Robin (Richard Grayson) in his Nightwing mantle. It was something to read a lost chapter in the series, because there are so many tales. Oddly enough this story of the Owls resonated even back in the beginning of the series. I am so fortunate to have a vast understanding, passing now more than several generations of readers in my family.


Bloodlines – I can completely understand the connection from the past to the present. What we learn later has actually shaped who we have become. But we can change our lives by a simple decision, left instead of right. With a graphic novel series like Batman (and the Cowl family) there is a indentation on what makes this team work. From various writers + artists bringing this dark world to life.  Page after page; its best to read it thoroughly as if you might miss an intrinsic detail. Like all readers of this series, it does keep an intrinsic harmony about story telling, it may go in different directions but it is totally worth reading. 

30 mins or less, Think, and Supes vs the Elite

For your film enjoyment this weekend:

30 Minutes or Less
-Premise: One lackluster pizza guy becomes chosen as the herald of a big mess. Brings a friend, tackles troubles and saves the day. Rated R for vulgar words and lots of language.

Think Like a Man
-Theme- Based on the bestseller by Steve Harvey, the story focuses on a group of men and women. Tied by the oppression of the dating world, they find out what makes them who they truly are. A funny but heartfelt film.

Superman vs the Elite
- Superman takes on heroes from another time and space. Only one limitation: what is a hero?
Featuring an awesome cast of voice actors! Great story, and lots of action.

Elementary Season 2 Finale - M for Moriarity

For those whomever read Sherlock Holmes novels, are indulged with unique story lines. With key phrases, and dialog that could be expressed as diverse and intelligent. Elementary with two seasons under its wing have managed to deliver solid storytelling to television once again. Jonny Lee Miller (Sherlock) and Lucy Liu (Watson) play the roles in a significant fashion, unlike past incarnations of the characters. They are not frumpy detectives, but feel like modern day realizations, as mush as their antagonists.

As of late, season 2 explores the faction that is Moriarity. A name that's haunted Sherlock since he left London, seeking refuge in New York. Now being cleansed, and seeing everything clearer. There have been more diverse changes with the writing style, included that each case is related to one another. No longer pieces of one puzzle, but a constant continuity shaped around the duo and their police allies.

Even more interesting is the dynamic played out by Joan Watson's choice to befriend Sherlock. Not just a sober companion, but as an investigator that can be relied upon when needed. On occasion, there are times she is called upon with Sherlock elsewhere, knowing her training and focus, there is a trust that no one else can define.

But with all friendships comes a barrier, Irene Adler was once a part of Sherlock's heart. Until he lost her to some unforeseen circumstances, only to gain her back as something else. For those who have read the novels know of a mysterious being named "Moriarity" a dweller of the dark and shadows. Connecting the dots, and literally emulating every move that Sherlock and Watson make. The biggest shift in gears for this series however, is just who M actually is. (I write no spoilers here however) but commend the awesome writing team, and production staff on taking a classic tale and making it fresh.

Anime film reviews: Sky Crawlers and Steamboy

The Sky Crawlers
2008/2009
Production I.G.
Wings in the Skies

Taking place in an alternate timeline, an array of pilots are chosen to take to the skies. However, their true identities have been hidden for years. Finding out their enemies may not be who they believe to be. Their team becomes a part of them, a family, friends, and closer. The story follows one such pilot whom is chosen to lead the team, and finds out much more about himself and his boss.

Spinning drama:  aerial combat, and unique storytelling. The Sky Crawlers is one of a kind (and directed by dog lover Mamoru Oshii) **in the past many remember his style with the two Ghost in the Shell films. Mixing symbolism: with dynamic characters, and all out action. This film is for anyone who enjoys movies.

Steamboy
2004 / 2005
Directed by Katsuhio Otomo (Akira)
Steamboy Committee

Welcome to the late 1800’s in Europe, before the all out battles across the lands. Dreamers become inventors of the most diverse amalgamations of mechanics to unravel humanity. Ray Steam is the great grandson of an inventor who wanted to change the world. Until his dad winds up in an accident that takes the lives of their team working on a steam venter that disperse’s pure energy. With his mom and siblings, fate intervenes where Ray has to tackle life and death to protect an energy source that takes him farther than he could imagine.

This film took ten years to make, from story to screen, steam punk style immerses the senses. Plus it doesn’t hurt that it contains a humble collection of voice actors for its English dub. Patrick Stewart, Alfred Molina, to name a few. Plus its audio mix of 5.1, with tons of emotion and lots of spectacle. Steamboy is a film worth watching with the entire family. Oh, and you might learn something too.

Film reviews - A Swan and a Sitter

And now for a two film review:

Black Swan
Directed by Darren Aronofsky
2010/2011
*Starring: Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Winona Ryder (and many more)
From ballet classic, to a drama / thriller. This film is unlike any other, as a dancer becomes what she dreams. As the lead: playing the Swan Queen defying everything in her path, and even her own existence. Considering a mixed cast of diverse actors, it does not slow down. There is always music in the background, making the world come to life. Whether it’s the orchestration, or even club beats, the world of Swan Lake is thriving taking its characters with it.

Taking a unique spin, Black Swan is definitely a film worth watching. But take heed, it is not for kids eyes to view. Adults only please.

The Sitter
2011/2012
Comedy / Drama / Contains lots of peanuts

Take Jonah Hill, give the guy a job watching a trio of kids, mix and repeat. Oh and lots of laughs (with adult humor of course). Not a film for kids, but turns out that “The Sitter” learns some lessons, and shares some wisdom. Its tough to describe because it covers all sorts of uncharted territory that few comedies ever pull off. Oh, and there’s a ton of cameos! Some play good guys, gals and villains.

The trifecta of trouble is something else. And it might even bring a smile to your face

A trio of awesome and fun

May I present a trio of films for your leisure.
One - Limitless
Two - Nim's Island
Three - Chipmunks

(1)
Limitless
Relativity Media + 20^th Century Fox
2011

What if a magic pill could unleash your hidden capabilities? In this suspense thriller, Bradley Cooper’s character takes the ultimate leap towards uncharted territory. Finding out just what he got into is another story. Untapped abilities, memories, and what makes us human is the core part of the story.
Taking on various obstacles, this gift may just be a hidden curse.

Well directed, this is a rare piece of filmmaking (including an unrated version of the film). Its well worth watching the extended version, exploring all sorts of territory that would push rating monkeys. In addition it is a smart film, with action, suspense, and a bit of thrills. Being far more than just a thinking high-octane title, its more of a challenge that Brad’s character faces choices he never thought possible.

Plus there are hidden surprises, given a certain icon plays a signature role many would not expect. Even more interesting is how topical the dialog constantly flows. Even in a calm moment, everything could change in an instant.

Definitely worth watching on a weekend

(2)

Nim’s Island
Walden Media + 20^th Century Fox
2009

Adventure is everywhere, from a book to living on an uncharted island. Enter Alex, a classic hero that beats all the odds and explores various locales, braving danger and death at every turn. But wait! Real,or made up? Nim and her dad live on an island, surviving on their environment and learning something new about their home. Until Nim’s dad goes on an expedition to find a piece of nature yet to be uncovered. Thankfully Alex is here to save the.. wait oh that’s giving too much away.

A fun family film that is pretty much for every age. Mixing solid humor, with a bit of fun. But there’s more to this tale than being a humble film. There’s a heart beating, and its waiting to find new things to explore. Well worth watching.

Starring the classic Jodie Foster (as Alex), brave Gerard Butler (Jack), and Abigail Bresden (Nim)
Its amazing how these three makes this tale come to life. Jodie is timeless and pretty creative as Alex, but I won’t give away just what her role is. Gerard plays Nim’s father, an oceanographer finding all sorts of unique mysteries. I think its unique to see him playing a different type of character, other than the novel action type. **humbled he really can be a diverse fellow, well done! And Abby is something else, for a kid, wow talented star!

Btw this film is based on a best selling novel. So be sure to check it out. Oh and there is a sequel too!
Review for next time!

(3)

Alvin and the Chipmunks  (+ The Squeakquel!)
2007 + 2009
Fox 2000 + 20^th Century Fox

Awhile back there was an inspirational tale of three brothers, Alvin, Simon, and Theodore. Together these three formed a singing trio, along with their producer / dad Dave Seville. As a family, they learned the ups and downs of stardom, and having fun too.

The first film explores their origin tale, from losing their old home, and gaining a new one. With Dave being out of luck snagging a job as a music producer, with help from the 3 he finds a project to shape music forever. But they get taken by the spotlight as Dave’s old rival takes the boys away. Learning a lesson, the trio learn that Dave is a part of their lives.

**Plus there tons of hidden surprises when you hear who does the voices of the chipmunks + chipettes!

The Squeakquel
Taking place a short time after, the trio has gained back their stardom, only to see Dave injured during a show. Out of commission, Dave entrusts his aunt to take care of them. Until its up to his cousin Toby, whom isn’t known for being a stand up guy. And with a new set of faces enter the scene, the Chipettes!
Battling adolescence, bullying, and a bit of spunk, the brothers along with Toby learn what it means to be family.

Then again, the ex-producer hires the girls to take on the boys! Who’s gonna win!?

*and recently there is a 3^rd film, Chipwrecked!
I say the Chipmunks series of films are for any age. (and most of all fun!)

A Silver Lining, and Tony Stark's big adventure!

Presenting a two film review for this week!

 

Silver Linings Playbook (2012)
Drama / Comedy

This is a film about two people, the first (played by Bradley Cooper) a guy just released from a psych ward. Now finding his life’s true path with family and friends. The secon: (played by Jennifer Lawrence) as the wife of a fallen officer, struggling with her identity. Now wait, before you skip to the rest, take note this is not your typical movie. It is more of a football game mid-play waiting for a team to make their move.

The electic cast of Robert De Niro, Chris Tucker, Julia Stiles (just to name a few) shapes the type of family these two characters interact with. Every time either one of them finds a goal, they rebound over the other with each obstacle they face together. Eventually they have to work together, and being tested by their new family, or against each other by trust. This is definitely a film anyone would want to see. Plus you might even learn something.

Iron Man III (5/3/2013)
Marvel Studios

It all goes back to the beginning -
IM3 takes place a short while after “The Avengers”, with Tony struggling with the after effects of saving Earth. Feeling alone in his thoughts, he fights back with everything to protect those he cares about. IM 1&2 examined various facets of Tony’s personalities, and what makes him a hero. However, like another certain wealthy character, he has no superhuman traits. But his heart is open to be the hero those without a voice can’t be in this day and age.

IM3’s journey takes Tony from his past life, to the present. Where a “demon” of his past revisits once again. From a nightmarish release of terror released by some character named “The Mandarin”. The questions become more of a concern when all out attack on humanity brings out the worst in others. But the old faces Tony recalls becomes the villains.

AIM – No longer a joke, a full fledged group of troublemakers takes on the world, from technology to inhumane acts. Working with several “think tanks” its become a powerhouse of science and untold abilities yet to come to fruition.

Mandarin – What is real? Watch this film carefully, it will surprise you. How? Fans of the comics remember a deviant leader with mystical powers, and wore extravagant garb. Wielding the “ten rings” of power, able to use magic from this world and the next. In this tale, the Mandarin becomes a unique persona, in symbolism, belief, and real.

The main core story with Tony is “what if the suit was taken away?” “What makes him a hero?” “Why does he risk his life for humanity?” “How does Pepper fit into his world?” Sounds like a lot to take in, but being Tony Stark is just that, everything that makes us who we are.

 

 

From Gublernation With Admiration

From Gublernation with Admiration

Something has to be said about Criminal Minds Matthew Gray Gubler. I remember seeing episode 100 with fresh eyes the first time, and I wondered just how many stories never make it to air. Plus its insane just how unique each episode continues a type of flow. But the bizarre thing is that every time its Matt’s turn, the episode is a singularity, although it connects it also contains a yin/yang theme.

Another interesting feature is the hint of a song. But its not just any track, it’s a tune that fits the theme of the ongoing story throughout the season. Usually a lot of shows detail with bgm, and some tune that narrates the emotional movement of the show. CM has always been different for that reason. I find myself a bit curious just how the crew votes on what to give each episode its own personality. Plus the recent season has been a mixed shuffle.

What defines CM? Being a longtime viewer has actually given us a glimpse of the team, a family based unit that keeps one another standing. However this season is a bit different, dealing with Matt’s character Spencer Reed’s unique relationship with an outsider from the field. However that lady turns out to be a genius, with a tale all her own. Sadly things are not meant to be, and everything falls apart. With a call from someone, he sees the worse thing possible. Loss.

But with help the team works together to help him rebound from grief. What makes these MGG ep’s unique even more is how detailed, significant and charismatic each sequence unfolds. Its a lot like an origami piece, it forms from a piece of paper eventually shaping into a unique work of art.

Speaking of art, the music cue at the end usually pertains to a classic theme. Not of modern themes, but classic pop, r&b, or rock n’ roll. **Or on a recent episode, a clip played aloud via a vinyl edition of the song. I cannot say enough on how humbling Matt’s directing style makes this show more interesting with each season. Because its not one part, it is a fun adventure worth taking.