Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Between Nurses, and Aliens, Animation

Nurse Jackie Season 4 - Welcome to Rehab
After the big fallout with her secret unraveling a work relationship versus her marriage. But there is an upside, Jackie seeks help in the form of rehab. But the downside, is that her other family (@ work) in the hospital is getting bullied by a new head of operations. With a new owner, boss, and work arrangements, All Saints may not be filled with much spirit.

**This season pulls on all the stops, for one Jackie no longer falls back on pain meds. Not a single one!
**Some characters even gain a closer bond, and other changes will surprise you!
Fun season, and best thing yet it will leave you smiling and crying at the same time.

Falling Skies - Season II - Reunion and Fallout
2nd Mass regains old friends, and lose a few along the way. With the aliens seeming to be on lockdown, the humans come at odds on trust, faith, and belief in one another. Tom Mason, now secondary leader of the crew outlines gameplans from everything he's learned thus far, and his journey on a craft with an overseer of the alien regimen. However the obstacle, the 2nd Mass fights every challenge and deals with the outcome.

With the promise of an outlying community left behind, they witness an evolution of both sides. And the biggest surprise is within the side they've been against since day one.


The Mechanical Man -
What would you do if a street performer changed your life? An act of kindness helps a young lady on the rebound after losing her part time job, and gaining a bit of confidence with the help of a man dressed in unique clothing and body paint mimicking a living statue. From there her sister tries to help push her into a relationship with some other guy (an accomplished writer who is full of himself). So who would you choose?


Waking Sleeping Beauty - The story of the Walt Disney Studios 84-94
What films do you remember as a kid? Black Cauldron, Great Mouse Detective, or Little Mermaid?
If you were part of that generation, might even remember how vibrant and colorful those worlds were. Or the stories of classic tales keeping you tied to your chair as some other kids wailed over the scary, or funny moments we all could remember. This film is the story about the people that made those stories happens. From their rebirth, to a moment of falling out and saving animation.
**For those who remember, this a film for you. (and the new kids)

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Film Review - Mao's Last Dancer

*Based on the real life journey of Li Chunxin (a noteworthy dancer of his time)
From humble beginnings as an unknown kid in his rural hometown. Then towards facing an unknown destiny, being a dancer for his home country's leader Chairman Mao. To learning what life is like outside of his homeland, remembering the lessons learned from his past life, to a new identity as a professional dancer seeking the light.

Beautifully directed, music, and presentation. It doesn't feel like a typical bio picture, but a documentary as if we're living the life of a dancer with Li. If you haven't seen this film yet, please do it is a fantastic piece of film making that everyone has to see.

Gojira - then and now 2014?

Many years ago, Kaiju or giant monsters films have been a craze for decades. My mom introduced me to the franchise with Godzilla (54') or the American version with Raymond Burr. Its funny how a series with a big lizard attacking a city could be so entertaining. As a kid I often wondered how they made these films work, and still have a following. And I am thankful to still enjoy it! I mean what would films be without monster movies?

I recently found "The Godzilla Collection" via our local library. I have been for years since "Final Wars" trying to obtain it. But the cost was so insane, yet its fun to re-watch all those films (and a few I have never seen before). I have never watched the films with original dialog, so I am itching to watch them in their original format (especially the original).

It is so tough to write a review about one film, when there are tons of these titles. Even with the original classic still pushing film makers and viewers buttons still today. Oh and even more fun new, Godzilla 2014 is a go, with a release date and wrapped filming.

This is just a teaser entry, but I plan to do some more concise writing about the big guy and his buddies very soon!

http://www.godzilla-movies.com/‎ *site with news covering the new Godzilla reboot + news worldwide!

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Batman - The Dark Knight Returns (Part II)

Original graphic novel by Frank Miller & Klaus Janson
Directed by Jay Olivia
Written for film format by Bob Goodman

With the aftermath of the gangs ransacking Gotham, Batman has cleaned up the streets. But not without consequences, as those said gangs take up icons as protectors. Within Arkham Asylum, the "Joker" (voiced by Michael Emerson) is just released under watch from his psychiatrist (and a deal to make to the public towards his freedom). On another side of the states, a blue and red cape wearing character (voiced by Mark Valley) is offered a job to protect his home planet and country if he takes up arms against an immediate threat.


As the Joker leaves bodies behind, Batman gives chase one last time against the clown. It becomes a fight to their last breath versus Gotham's finest (and their new Commissioner). Although the classic villain was a longtime rival to the "Dark Knight" in this chapter he is playing "Cat and Mouse" with dire consequences.
Who is the victor?

After the first half, its Clark versus outside forces in a "one man armada" versus a fleet of ships and warheads. With the winning side keeping peace and freedom, outside eyes experience a massive blackout with Bruce in recovery. Battered, but for from defeated, Superman absorbs an ounce of energy from the Earth to fight again.

Remember that deal Clark made awhile ago? Promise kept, but who will win or die?

I have to admit seeing both parts I&II in a animated epic is worth the wait. The story is dark, like most Detective Comics cases, but this one is by far the roughest, and most messiest of them all. But it still holds a few strings in storytelling on how to unravel a mystery, what drives Batman to be a hero (without powers). Awhile back I read the book with fresh eyes, and it him me deep as a reader. But seeing it in motion, it plays out exactly as it did on the printed page.

Aside from the fact that all is gloom and doom, it does paint a picture in how things were when the original novel was released. And perhaps things haven't changed all that much, its just how we feel about everything in the present. Like the media, scrutiny, and politics, it all played a part in shaping DKR's storyline. Maybe we're in need of a new mini-series like it, or something that can redefine this new generation for what's to come.



Deadpool - A Space Oddity (Vol. VII)

Written by Captain Way
Art by Assembled Vella, and Bandit Barberi
Just to help its not the seventh space oddity, its just volume seven in the ongoing series. But that would be kinda weird huh? Deadpool on a science fiction adventure, fighting aliens, and taking down baddies. Yup just another day at work. Oh wait, the reviewers says this has to be about the book, okay back to our review.

33.1 (Wrecking Yard)-
In a humble neighborhood, Wade gets hired to clear out an old Marvel's villains home. I know it sounds crude but it happens, the guy hasn't had much in the way of work or making messes. But as it turns out, the owners of the building want him out for their own personal reasons. Thanks to a humble old lady, her kindness touches the hero and villain.

Space Oddity - a four part harmony
Our fearless hero Wade now takes on outer space, in a grand scale versus a giant moon that has lost its way. Turns out it has a case of dementia, and wants to take out every planet in the nearby system. However, the noble hero takes a stand and.. gets married to an alien? Yes it goes there, and worse he becomes a trade for hire, until he messes up, and then gets the gig to save the universe. Strange as it may be, it is a fun adventure making for some worthwhile reading!

Saturday, July 20, 2013

Doctor Who - The Visitation

Directed by Steven Moffat
Written by Eric Seward
Original air date: 2/15,16,22,23/1982

The Doctor and his allies find themselves stuck in the past. During the time of the "Black Plague" where many have died to illness or consequence due to the misuse of the land. Although with the covering of lies, does a truth become unveiled that has ties to a place far away from the Modern Day inhabited Earth. A lone set of lost amphibians set their sights on this timeline in order to do what they wish with humanity. Can the Doctor and his companions set things right!? (a 4 part episode tale!)

Within the special edition of this episode is a commentary with the cast, and director's son Peter Moffat (producer of recent series of Doctor Who). Documentaries about how the episode went from concept, to a full episode. And a revisit with the Doctor and Tegan, reliving memories about being a part of their last season together. And so much more!




Film review - Wanderlust

A Judd Apatow Production (2012)
Directed by David Wain
Written by Ken Marino + David Wain

What is Life? -
That is question (Paul Rudd) and (Jennifer Aniston) characters ask. They live in the day to day, tech, money, stress filled lifestyle living in NYC. But when something finally goes their way, it all falls apart with one of the duo buys the new mini-loft + loses their job the next day. So they go on a quest to find what their life truly means to them.

Elysium -
Welcome to the peace loving community, of peace, freedom, and no stress. With one exception, they are not your typical bunch, a band of modern hippies. It is here that the two people with everything behind them go to escape, only to find that maybe its what they needed.

I have to admit films like this are worthwhile watching, sure its a raunchy comedy but it has heart. But it is different that past movies, it takes chances, its smart and has a point in the long run. So if you haven't seen this film, do check it out.

www.wanderlust-movie.com/‎

Friday, July 19, 2013

Batman - Odyssey


Written and Artworks by the classic Neal Adams

"The Odyssey" by Homer was known in classic literature as a journey of a man's self discovery. Upon learning of his true identity and purpose, do they come to know what their destiny of fulfillment truly awaits them upon their return. Like that tale, Batman (or as Bruce Wayne) also faced some odd challenges in his early days. Batman - Odyssey is one of those tales that takes a journey very few readers ever had a chance to indulge within.

As the "Caped Crusader", there are many levels of working out the "how, what, where, when, and why". However noble the cause, Bruce is still human, capable of failing, or getting injured. It is those elements that makes Batman as a character stand out from the superhuman led Justice League. On those levels alone, we learn that as Batman he takes things way too  seriously, by now readers simply enjoyed the journey. But do we really know who Batman is as a hero?

Throughout the book, Bruce is speaking with another individual (it is not revealed for quite some time who exactly it is). From Batman's past, present, and future collide as his unknown quest features allies, and enemies from his ongoing quest to battle crime. **And Deadman also joins in to help aid the Detective in his most desperate hours!

I cannot put the words together just how vast, and unique this tale is. For anyone who enjoys storytelling needs to buy this book, it is totally worthwhile of being in anyone's collection.

Be sure to check out Neal's website in regards to more tales of how this book came to be.
http://www.nealadams.com/index.php/comics/batman-odyssey

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Deadpool and the quest for a burrito! (I Rule, You Suck)

marvel.com/comics/.../deadpool_vol_6_i_rule_you_suck_hardcover‎

Written by Master Way
Artfully drawn by Barberi and Student Dazo

No Burrito for you-
Wade enters a store, asks for a burrito, does not receive. Store clerk not a nice guy, and a bunch of baddies hold up the unhappy place. So much for a nice day, old Wade meets up with a band of heroes! So is this a quest for freedom? Um, just a burrito, but it becomes one big mess after another.

Although I haven't caught up with the Secret Avengers, it is a fresh mix of daring and modest. It still feels like a classic Avengers tale (with Deadpool). Ooh wow there is a villain I haven't seen in a long time. Can't spoil but wow that is a twist. *I thought Spidey's "Jackal" was bad enough!

**So I guess Wade has some real baddies, even some of his friends don't like him. But when it comes down to saving the day, sometimes he's gotta take the leap and go for it! I actually like the way this writing & art team work together, they give you (the reader) an open option, follow the crazy mess of a tale, and see its outcome.

In the past, DP wasn't always a wisecracking smart aleck, he has always an assortment of depth within each unique tale. Every issue deals with a choice he may have made, or get involved in by choice. Very rarely does he get into a situation and not make out of it in one piece.

Um wait did someone else play KOF99!? Wow! This is not what I expected!
**Way dude awesome!  Gah I can't spoil this awesome moment of DP armada its crazy!!

Oh yeah its a good book, go get it!

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Oz the Great and Powerful

Directed by Sam Raimi
Written by Mitchell Kapner & David Lindsay-Abaire

Once upon a time long ago...
A novel wowed many over the ages, young and old dazzling them on an adventure that took them to a far off world. One where two kingdoms, and a band of sisters forced a change upon their people. And all with the aid of normal beings without any superhuman powers, but an open mind.

In the past, Walt Disney and his team tried to adapt the classic tale for tv or film. In the documentary included with the film, it highlights the journey towards the yellow brick road. From Mousketeers leading a musical adventure, to trying to right formula to take an audience to a whole new world.

From the past to present -
After Spider Man 3, Sam Raimi and his crew set out for something new and fresh. Long sought out by Walt Disney to tackle a thought provoking project, the origin of OZ. In the books, it explained the origins of who the Wizard truly was, but the series was broken into several acts. However, Walt's ideal project couldn't be pulled off back then, enter the now with "Great and Powerful".

As the Wizard (James Franco) humanizes the man that would change the fantasy world forever. Starting out as a carnival performer, only to find out his true destiny lies in the hand of three sisters. Each played by a phenomenal trio of actresses (Mila Kunis, Michelle Williams, and Rachel Weisz) The biggest mystery throughout is leading towards whom the "true Wicked Witch" truly becomes. But that is only half the tale, exploring the vast lands within Oz, the Wizard's humble journey runs into danger, and gains allies.

By far this film takes fans of the classic books, and new fans on a journey worth taking. It is a huge departure with Sam Raimi, who rarely does fantasy tales, moreso with action / suspense / and comedy. Oh but wait, there are some hidden treats throughout the tale *you have to watch the film to find out!

Buy it or Rent? Definite buy!

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Batman Death by Design + Through the Looking Glass

Batman – Death by Design
Written by Chip Kidd
With Art by Dave Taylor

Within Gotham there is a different type of community, from the rich and famous to the underworld. In the newspaper digs, a reporter seeks out stories to tell Gothamites all about what they do not see once the sun goes down. Herein DbD, is the tale of a bat, a joke, and a historical fallout that almost took out Gotham itself.

Behind the tale is a bit of lost culture, architecture was founded on the basis of keeping a generations dream alive for decades. But sometimes, some dreams are actual lies that depend on the people’s faith and trust.  From an artists’ point of view, they are able to create their own vision or utopia to build that dream.

A character by the name of “X” sends messages through various channels to get his word across. From the elite, to Bruce Wayne and other formidable people. A lady by the name of Cyndia Syl *(kinda reminds me of Selina Kyle.. hmm) Cyndia’s presence within this tale is a bit more of a watchful eye towards Bruce (and as Batman as well). The Joker however is a power pusher, but he is not working alone, having the backing of several Gothamites who want to bring the city to its knees.

DbD is an awesome book, with a noir art style rarely depicted in a Batman graphic novel. It explores the dark side of Gotham’s nights, and revolves around Batman’s world like no other book currently out there. It does not take place in the present DCU, but it does lay a foundation in reality where things like this can actually and do happen to us even now


Batman – Through the Looking Glass
Written  by Bruce Jones
Art by Sam Kieth

Batman in Wonderland-
From a long lost childhood friend, Bruce finds a resolution thanks to a dinner the night before. With one exception, it sends him on a quest through an imagined Wonderland. A ton of breadcrumbs, clues, and lost lives, this is no kids tale.

For one, Celia (dressed as Alice) is Bruce’s long lost friend. Staying in her child like form, guiding Bruce through the great journey that is all in his head (or is it?) Travelling to and fro throughout Wayne Manor, Robin and Alfred try to aid Bruce before he hurts himself even worse. Without the consciousness of reality, could Bruce actually lose his sanity?

This book takes Alice in Wonderland within Bruce’s mind. It is a fun adventure, yet also dark and mysterious, like a classic Detective Comics tale. While still paying homage to a classic form of literature, and spins it on its head.