The top 11 tv shows that dawned in the last decade
Honorable(but not qualifying)Mention: Doctor Who(2005), technicly this is a continuation of the old series and therefore is very very old.
11. Dead Like Me
10.Torchwood
9.Dexter
8.Dollhouse
7.Supernatural
6. (Buffy the VAmpire slayer) The O.C.
Okay so Buffy would go here(pushing all of the above up a rank each, but it started in 1997 not in the new millennium and thus does not qualify. Barely.
5. Gilmore Girls
4.Angel
EDIT: It was pointed out that this show was released in 1999 not 2000, and therefore ineligible. So this spot is now for number 11, with everything else going up a rank, and the show is Jericho
3. Wonderfalls
2. Firefly
1. Pushing Daisies (Tear)
Other top ranks include
Battlestar Galactica
How I met your Mother
Chuck
Reaper
Lost
Prison Break
House
Arrested Development
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
The Boringist week of the year:2009
So because the last week of the year(christmas to new years day) is the slowest for most folks I'm going to set up my own mini film festival.
Every film shall be already released, with a few opitional Theatrical Releases. Your goal should be a film a day with at least two on New years eve and total of 9.
My personal list is more ambitious, I'm watching something like 17 movies.
V for Vendetta
The Departed
Up
Sunshine Cleaning
Corpse Bride
Terminator Salvation
The Fall
The Orphanage
2001 a space Odysey
Gladiator
District 9
Dirty Harry
Magnum Force
The Enforcer
Sudden impact
The Dead Pool
Optional Theatrical Films:
Sherlock Holmes
Up in the air
Every film shall be already released, with a few opitional Theatrical Releases. Your goal should be a film a day with at least two on New years eve and total of 9.
My personal list is more ambitious, I'm watching something like 17 movies.
V for Vendetta
The Departed
Up
Sunshine Cleaning
Corpse Bride
Terminator Salvation
The Fall
The Orphanage
2001 a space Odysey
Gladiator
District 9
Dirty Harry
Magnum Force
The Enforcer
Sudden impact
The Dead Pool
Optional Theatrical Films:
Sherlock Holmes
Up in the air
Friday, December 18, 2009
Top 11 modern D.C. Superheroes
Top 11 modern D.C. Superheroes
Same rules as the marvel, including having a list for villains.
11. Indigo 1
10.Blue Lantern Brother Warth
8.(tie)Flamebird(Thara)
8. (tie)Nightwing(Chris Kent)
7. Booster Gold
6. The Question(Renee Montoya)
5. Green Arrow
3.(tie) Batman(Dick Greyson)
3.(tie) Robin (Damien Wayne)
2. Green Lantern(Hal Jordan)
1. Batwoman
Same rules as the marvel, including having a list for villains.
11. Indigo 1
10.Blue Lantern Brother Warth
8.(tie)Flamebird(Thara)
8. (tie)Nightwing(Chris Kent)
7. Booster Gold
6. The Question(Renee Montoya)
5. Green Arrow
3.(tie) Batman(Dick Greyson)
3.(tie) Robin (Damien Wayne)
2. Green Lantern(Hal Jordan)
1. Batwoman
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Update(or lack there of)
Okay so I just missed last sat. No biggie. Comic is the next post I'm doing and then I'm programing the rest of the month.
Reviews should resume in January. I should have a handful of things to at least talk about, if not review.
Friday night(Saturday morning) I'll have a review for Avatar. Saturday I'll have a review for whatever movie I see then. And then the week of New Years I shall have something for Sherlock Holmes.
Reviews should resume in January. I should have a handful of things to at least talk about, if not review.
Friday night(Saturday morning) I'll have a review for Avatar. Saturday I'll have a review for whatever movie I see then. And then the week of New Years I shall have something for Sherlock Holmes.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Dollhouse has been canceled.
But I'm trying to save it.
If you haven't already, join the Facebook group:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/group.php?gid=199365313412&ref=search&sid=299000555.3833548488..1
Beyond that I'll keep you updated as per plan.
If you haven't already, join the Facebook group:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/group.php?gid=199365313412&ref=search&sid=299000555.3833548488..1
Beyond that I'll keep you updated as per plan.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Top 11 modern Marvel superheroes(based upon their current Marvel titles)
Top 11 modern Marvel superheroes(based upon their current Marvel titles)
So in a way this is my top 11 Marvel books on shelves but it kind of is not.
This top 11 will have a mate for villains.
11. Old Man Logan
10. Daredevil
9. Luke Cage
8.DeadPool(Wade Wilson)
7. Black Bolt
6. Nova Prime(Richard Rider)
5. Captain America(II)(Bucky Barnes)
4. Tony Stark
2. James Madrox / Layla Miller
1. Ultimate spider-man(peter Parker)
So in a way this is my top 11 Marvel books on shelves but it kind of is not.
This top 11 will have a mate for villains.
11. Old Man Logan
10. Daredevil
9. Luke Cage
8.DeadPool(Wade Wilson)
7. Black Bolt
6. Nova Prime(Richard Rider)
5. Captain America(II)(Bucky Barnes)
4. Tony Stark
2. James Madrox / Layla Miller
1. Ultimate spider-man(peter Parker)
Sunday, November 1, 2009
An explanation
So first off, I just traveled backwards in time...
So I'm going to be using Novemeber as a bit of catch up, periodically(as I stated earlier) I will be revisted these 11ish reviews and filling them in this month at my leisure. You won't see the full 30 Days of Night(two part) review until thanksgiving, I'll write the review when I'm home for the weekend(I don't own a copy of the movie anymore so I have not been able to review that. Likely though, a few such as Godfather on the list of backups will be very short, and the Serenity review may never appear. That is contingent upon real life circumstances where I am showing a friend of mine the series and we actually finish the series and watch the movie.
Hopefully, tomorrow night I'll be able to get a few reviews out of the way and have some lined up for you guys during the week.
So here's a few things I hope to be able to write reviews for during November...
Tru Calling the complete series dvd: I just bought this off amazon for really cheap, and I might even hang on to it as a gift for christmas, but should I fail to hold back I will be watching it and getting through that series giving you guys a look at the box set.
Persepolis
The Filth
EDIT: Something I forgot to mention, you may not see updates consistently. Not that you have in the past but other than what I've said in this update and the one from a week ago, there is a chance I won't be able to write up anything else of paticular worth unless the day comes up.
But look to see hopefully at least one thing a week.
So I'm going to be using Novemeber as a bit of catch up, periodically(as I stated earlier) I will be revisted these 11ish reviews and filling them in this month at my leisure. You won't see the full 30 Days of Night(two part) review until thanksgiving, I'll write the review when I'm home for the weekend(I don't own a copy of the movie anymore so I have not been able to review that. Likely though, a few such as Godfather on the list of backups will be very short, and the Serenity review may never appear. That is contingent upon real life circumstances where I am showing a friend of mine the series and we actually finish the series and watch the movie.
Hopefully, tomorrow night I'll be able to get a few reviews out of the way and have some lined up for you guys during the week.
So here's a few things I hope to be able to write reviews for during November...
Tru Calling the complete series dvd: I just bought this off amazon for really cheap, and I might even hang on to it as a gift for christmas, but should I fail to hold back I will be watching it and getting through that series giving you guys a look at the box set.
Persepolis
The Filth
EDIT: Something I forgot to mention, you may not see updates consistently. Not that you have in the past but other than what I've said in this update and the one from a week ago, there is a chance I won't be able to write up anything else of paticular worth unless the day comes up.
But look to see hopefully at least one thing a week.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Drag Me to Hell: The Full Review
Review goes here
Wish Number two:
My review of Drag Me To Hell.
This is the first real and true horror movie in years. It is not the torture porn we've seen recently, it's not Cloverfield in that it has a giant monster. This is a movie with interesting characters, an only slightly larger than life villain, and most of all likable characters. That is one of the most important aspects of this movie. You do not want the Hero to die. This isn't a film where you like the Villain more than any one else.
Christine is a protagonist that you genuinely feel bad for and can(for most of them) understand her decisions. As you watch her go through the motions in during the first ten minutes or so, the film really starts to push her up a tree, and worse than the old adage, it starts to try and cut the tree down to get her out of it. And then she falls in a hole and is trying to climb her way out but the hole just gets worse to bear.
We watch as things seem like they might be okay, but then they get worse than they were before. It almost always feels like there is something trying to stop Christine. But unlike in a drama, in this horror film there actually is something trying to stop her. This isn't to say Christine doesn't make some bad situations that just get worse and worse for herself, but you will find yourself concerned for her safety.
This is one of the few horror films where the really scary moments are downplayed and instead moments that would feel incredibly frightening to a character in a situation like Christine's are played up creating a far more real to life experience. There aren't to many movies where horror is used as an expression and communicative tool of a character's emotions, but here it is and it is done effectively.
For a film with such a small budget, you would never know. It may have even worked in the film's favor for every set, every costume, and most of the makeup looks realistic. I don't think they built any sets for this movie. I honestly think they are all location shots. This creates an effect that makes the world the film is showing us seem very close to our real world. This is important because in most horror films the world created feels very much like a created world and not the world we live in. When we think of it as the world we live in suddenly the terror is not only for the events of the movie, but for ourselves and the (far gone) possibility that the events could befall ourselves. The horror itself is more suspense than anything. Raimi is very good with his use of sound and every day ordinary occurrences being scary when you are placed into a fearful mindset. In all honesty, I would consider this movie a masterstroke in crafting a horror movie.
The acting in this movie is far and beyond fantastic. Most of the time Alison Lohman is acting with nothing yet can convince you that something is happening around her. The old woman in the movie(whose name escapes me) does a good job being at times vulnerable and often creepy. The man who plays the psychic(whom I'm seeing more and more in roles and am enjoying his work) really portrays a certain amount of character that makes him seem different than a similar character in the movie Poltergeist. The two men that work at Christine's bank do a good job coming across as men, and not just caricatures of men. The low point in the acting is the parents of the boyfriend. They just don't do too much. But the one that steals the show is without a doubt Matt Long. With this performance and his role from Zach and Miri, he is proving to be a real rising star. In this movie he is playing the loving boyfriend, but more than any character in this film he is realistic. He is at times supportive, and at other times disbelieving. He has quirks and character traits akin to real people.
The biggest flaw is the director's cut. It doesn't add anything to the story and just shows a few alternate shots in certain scenes. And it doesn't need it. So skip watching the directors cut and just watch the theatrical cut(its on the same disk). Bonus features are scarce but this is one of the few times where the movie outweighs any extras. the Audio/Visual components look great and just as rich as they we're in theaters.
Score: 8.9
Wish Number two:
My review of Drag Me To Hell.
This is the first real and true horror movie in years. It is not the torture porn we've seen recently, it's not Cloverfield in that it has a giant monster. This is a movie with interesting characters, an only slightly larger than life villain, and most of all likable characters. That is one of the most important aspects of this movie. You do not want the Hero to die. This isn't a film where you like the Villain more than any one else.
Christine is a protagonist that you genuinely feel bad for and can(for most of them) understand her decisions. As you watch her go through the motions in during the first ten minutes or so, the film really starts to push her up a tree, and worse than the old adage, it starts to try and cut the tree down to get her out of it. And then she falls in a hole and is trying to climb her way out but the hole just gets worse to bear.
We watch as things seem like they might be okay, but then they get worse than they were before. It almost always feels like there is something trying to stop Christine. But unlike in a drama, in this horror film there actually is something trying to stop her. This isn't to say Christine doesn't make some bad situations that just get worse and worse for herself, but you will find yourself concerned for her safety.
This is one of the few horror films where the really scary moments are downplayed and instead moments that would feel incredibly frightening to a character in a situation like Christine's are played up creating a far more real to life experience. There aren't to many movies where horror is used as an expression and communicative tool of a character's emotions, but here it is and it is done effectively.
For a film with such a small budget, you would never know. It may have even worked in the film's favor for every set, every costume, and most of the makeup looks realistic. I don't think they built any sets for this movie. I honestly think they are all location shots. This creates an effect that makes the world the film is showing us seem very close to our real world. This is important because in most horror films the world created feels very much like a created world and not the world we live in. When we think of it as the world we live in suddenly the terror is not only for the events of the movie, but for ourselves and the (far gone) possibility that the events could befall ourselves. The horror itself is more suspense than anything. Raimi is very good with his use of sound and every day ordinary occurrences being scary when you are placed into a fearful mindset. In all honesty, I would consider this movie a masterstroke in crafting a horror movie.
The acting in this movie is far and beyond fantastic. Most of the time Alison Lohman is acting with nothing yet can convince you that something is happening around her. The old woman in the movie(whose name escapes me) does a good job being at times vulnerable and often creepy. The man who plays the psychic(whom I'm seeing more and more in roles and am enjoying his work) really portrays a certain amount of character that makes him seem different than a similar character in the movie Poltergeist. The two men that work at Christine's bank do a good job coming across as men, and not just caricatures of men. The low point in the acting is the parents of the boyfriend. They just don't do too much. But the one that steals the show is without a doubt Matt Long. With this performance and his role from Zach and Miri, he is proving to be a real rising star. In this movie he is playing the loving boyfriend, but more than any character in this film he is realistic. He is at times supportive, and at other times disbelieving. He has quirks and character traits akin to real people.
The biggest flaw is the director's cut. It doesn't add anything to the story and just shows a few alternate shots in certain scenes. And it doesn't need it. So skip watching the directors cut and just watch the theatrical cut(its on the same disk). Bonus features are scarce but this is one of the few times where the movie outweighs any extras. the Audio/Visual components look great and just as rich as they we're in theaters.
Score: 8.9
Top 11 Songs For Lucifer
the top 11 songs for Lucifer
Number 11: Devil Went Down to Georgia
Number ten: Jump in the fire By Metalica
Number 9: `Calling the Maker by Aimee Allen
Number 8: Running with the devil-Van Halen
Number 7: Back in Black By AC/DC
Number 666: Crossroads blues- Robert Johnson
Number 5: Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath
Number four:Highway to hell-Ac/dc
Number 3: Devil on my shoulder- Billy Talent
Number 2: Me and the Devil Blues-robert Johnson
Number one: Sympathy for the Devil-ROlling Stones
Number 11: Devil Went Down to Georgia
Number ten: Jump in the fire By Metalica
Number 9: `Calling the Maker by Aimee Allen
Number 8: Running with the devil-Van Halen
Number 7: Back in Black By AC/DC
Number 666: Crossroads blues- Robert Johnson
Number 5: Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath
Number four:Highway to hell-Ac/dc
Number 3: Devil on my shoulder- Billy Talent
Number 2: Me and the Devil Blues-robert Johnson
Number one: Sympathy for the Devil-ROlling Stones
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
end of october update
Whew. Things got busy eh?
Alright so Soon(hopefully during November)I'll be up dating the last 9 parts of the top ten list with reviews. These will be extra to fill in the gaps. I'll also be putting together a nice review of the pilot episode for Pretender as an early experience and a Review of Let The Right One In.
Other stuff including another edition of Hollywood Sucks, a top 11 list, A Tester's Dilema: Mantacon, and a couple movie and book reviews will show up. I'm warning you guys now, December may very well become a blackout month for me. Assuming this other gig falls through(i'll likely know by black friday) I'll start doing the last month in comics where I do 500 word reviews of comics from the last month on both ends of the good/bad spectrum from my pull list.
Glad to put that down, lets see me stick to it.
Alright so Soon(hopefully during November)I'll be up dating the last 9 parts of the top ten list with reviews. These will be extra to fill in the gaps. I'll also be putting together a nice review of the pilot episode for Pretender as an early experience and a Review of Let The Right One In.
Other stuff including another edition of Hollywood Sucks, a top 11 list, A Tester's Dilema: Mantacon, and a couple movie and book reviews will show up. I'm warning you guys now, December may very well become a blackout month for me. Assuming this other gig falls through(i'll likely know by black friday) I'll start doing the last month in comics where I do 500 word reviews of comics from the last month on both ends of the good/bad spectrum from my pull list.
Glad to put that down, lets see me stick to it.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 10
Number 10....
The Fall
Have you ever known one of those guys that just tells amazing, albeit fantastical and non believable stories that completely captivate you? That is Lee Pace's character in this movie. You will leave this movie wanting him to tell you more stories.
The story is a cool one. A young girl fell picking oranges and found herself in the hospital with a broken arm. A 20 something man finds himself having fallen in a stage accident when he was a stunt worker. The girl is bored and imaginative and finds the man. He agrees to tell her a story but he eventually starts using the story to manipulate her into getting morphine for him.
And this stuff is powerfully emotional, but what is really amazing is the connection to the story our hero, played by Lee Pace, tells and the two fallen's real lives in the hospital. and this story is pure breath taking majesty. If you can see it on a big screen do it. The bigger the better because the movie is incredibly visual. It looks fantastic. The next best viewing mode is on blu ray. The vibrant colors of this film look great and are going to really catch your eye.
Lee Pace is brilliant. Especially in this movie! But really his work is fantastic. He conveys all of the levels of emotions he needs to as both Roy and as the Bandit in the story. The use of the story's characters as metaphor for both Her and His lives is so interesting and great on many levels. Even the climax of his story is big and vibrant and over the top, but it works in favor of the movie.
The locations on this movie look perfect. And they better damn well since their filming is what delayed this movie and made it cost wayyy more than it ever should have. except maybe the hospital set, I do not believe there is more than a single set in the picture and it truly grasps that grand power of a child's imagination to create this fantastical lands out of such a less descriptive story. It might be Roy who is telling the story, but it is through her eyes that the visual of the story is lensed. There are some elements where you might question the nature of their relationship but there is nothing dirty or perverted to this friendship so take your mind out of the gutter. The film technicly doesn't even have a really happy ending. It has a resolved ending and everyone lives, and gives the impression of the happy hollywood level, but when you think about the fact that he is likely not going to be able to work in his field anymore, and she is forced back to the groves they both are returning to things that aren't going to be good on either of them, but ultimately that is not what the film is about. The film is about belief and the power of it.
Ultimately I suggest this movie for anyone(except maybe young young children because of the violence) because the film addresses tough, interesting issues on many levels allowing different intellects and level of involvement and enjoyment at each of them.
10.0
The Fall
Have you ever known one of those guys that just tells amazing, albeit fantastical and non believable stories that completely captivate you? That is Lee Pace's character in this movie. You will leave this movie wanting him to tell you more stories.
The story is a cool one. A young girl fell picking oranges and found herself in the hospital with a broken arm. A 20 something man finds himself having fallen in a stage accident when he was a stunt worker. The girl is bored and imaginative and finds the man. He agrees to tell her a story but he eventually starts using the story to manipulate her into getting morphine for him.
And this stuff is powerfully emotional, but what is really amazing is the connection to the story our hero, played by Lee Pace, tells and the two fallen's real lives in the hospital. and this story is pure breath taking majesty. If you can see it on a big screen do it. The bigger the better because the movie is incredibly visual. It looks fantastic. The next best viewing mode is on blu ray. The vibrant colors of this film look great and are going to really catch your eye.
Lee Pace is brilliant. Especially in this movie! But really his work is fantastic. He conveys all of the levels of emotions he needs to as both Roy and as the Bandit in the story. The use of the story's characters as metaphor for both Her and His lives is so interesting and great on many levels. Even the climax of his story is big and vibrant and over the top, but it works in favor of the movie.
The locations on this movie look perfect. And they better damn well since their filming is what delayed this movie and made it cost wayyy more than it ever should have. except maybe the hospital set, I do not believe there is more than a single set in the picture and it truly grasps that grand power of a child's imagination to create this fantastical lands out of such a less descriptive story. It might be Roy who is telling the story, but it is through her eyes that the visual of the story is lensed. There are some elements where you might question the nature of their relationship but there is nothing dirty or perverted to this friendship so take your mind out of the gutter. The film technicly doesn't even have a really happy ending. It has a resolved ending and everyone lives, and gives the impression of the happy hollywood level, but when you think about the fact that he is likely not going to be able to work in his field anymore, and she is forced back to the groves they both are returning to things that aren't going to be good on either of them, but ultimately that is not what the film is about. The film is about belief and the power of it.
Ultimately I suggest this movie for anyone(except maybe young young children because of the violence) because the film addresses tough, interesting issues on many levels allowing different intellects and level of involvement and enjoyment at each of them.
10.0
Monday, October 19, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 9
20. Drag me To Hell
Directed by Sam Raimi
I've been preaching this movie for months. It is the first great horror movie this decade. If you are a fan of horror, or horror comedy, you owe it to your self to see this film. The blood is minimal, the movie is even rated PG-13 but it works in it's favor. This has my total seal of approval.
19.The Empire Strikes Back(1980)
Director: Irvin Kershner
The only Star Wars Film I like on its own. I find Hope boring and cliche, Jedi is predictable, Menace only had good fight scenes, Clones was convoluted, and Sith was dark and edgy but still completely reliant on the previous films. Empire holds up and is a great film it it's own right.
18.Memento(2000)
Director: Christopher Nolan
I can not sing enough praise for the ground this film broke open. It is worth at least two viewings to bring in all of the visual information.
17.Gran Torino(2008)
Director: Clint Eastwood
17. (tied) Dirty Harry
I couldn't choose just one Clint film. They are both great and deeply fascinating. Check Em out.
16. Up(2009)
Director:
An absolute pixar classic. It will have you crying, laughing and feeling genuine emotions for these chracters you know for only a few minutes.
15.Casablanca(1942)
Director: Michael Curtiz
An opus of original thought.
14.Kiss Kiss Bang Bang(2005)
Director: Shane Black
A throw back to the great classic noir and action movies of the ages. Also Robert Downey Jr. is hilarious in it.
13.Princess Bride(1987)
Director: Rob Reiner
You haven't seen this movie? INCONCEIVABLE. Go now! STOP READING THIS. GO. It's that worth it.
12.Seven Samurai(1954)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
Absolutely Perfect.
11. Kiki’s Delivery Service(tied)
This is really the single best animated film you will see. No Joke. It is really impressive just how layered this film is. Plus dirigible.
11.Mi Familia(1995)
Director: Gregory Nava
The movie is sometimes titled My Family. It stars Jimmy Smits, Edward James Olmos, and Esai Morales. If those three won't get you into seats to watch a movie then you again might want to consider a different medium for your viewing pleasure.
Directed by Sam Raimi
I've been preaching this movie for months. It is the first great horror movie this decade. If you are a fan of horror, or horror comedy, you owe it to your self to see this film. The blood is minimal, the movie is even rated PG-13 but it works in it's favor. This has my total seal of approval.
19.The Empire Strikes Back(1980)
Director: Irvin Kershner
The only Star Wars Film I like on its own. I find Hope boring and cliche, Jedi is predictable, Menace only had good fight scenes, Clones was convoluted, and Sith was dark and edgy but still completely reliant on the previous films. Empire holds up and is a great film it it's own right.
18.Memento(2000)
Director: Christopher Nolan
I can not sing enough praise for the ground this film broke open. It is worth at least two viewings to bring in all of the visual information.
17.Gran Torino(2008)
Director: Clint Eastwood
17. (tied) Dirty Harry
I couldn't choose just one Clint film. They are both great and deeply fascinating. Check Em out.
16. Up(2009)
Director:
An absolute pixar classic. It will have you crying, laughing and feeling genuine emotions for these chracters you know for only a few minutes.
15.Casablanca(1942)
Director: Michael Curtiz
An opus of original thought.
14.Kiss Kiss Bang Bang(2005)
Director: Shane Black
A throw back to the great classic noir and action movies of the ages. Also Robert Downey Jr. is hilarious in it.
13.Princess Bride(1987)
Director: Rob Reiner
You haven't seen this movie? INCONCEIVABLE. Go now! STOP READING THIS. GO. It's that worth it.
12.Seven Samurai(1954)
Director: Akira Kurosawa
Absolutely Perfect.
11. Kiki’s Delivery Service(tied)
This is really the single best animated film you will see. No Joke. It is really impressive just how layered this film is. Plus dirigible.
11.Mi Familia(1995)
Director: Gregory Nava
The movie is sometimes titled My Family. It stars Jimmy Smits, Edward James Olmos, and Esai Morales. If those three won't get you into seats to watch a movie then you again might want to consider a different medium for your viewing pleasure.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
The Invincible Iron Man - #18
The Invincible Iron Man - #18
Here it is, the penultimate issue of Matt Fraction’s classic storyline. I say classic in that unless Fraction gives up completely on plotting the last issue of this story arc, this will go down as one of those runs where if someone asks for a good Iron Man story, you will tell them about World’s Most Wanted.
The issue picks up where the last issue concluded with Tony in Afghanistan, almost completely devoid of his knowledge. We have Maria Hill and The Black Widow in a H.A.M.M.E.R. cell in Avenger’s Tower and the former armor, Rescue, of Pepper Potts being held by Norman Osborn.
The majority of the issue is limited down to just two threads. We have the Afghanistan plot line and the Tower plot line. The Tower plotline is not entirely what is expected. Instead of being focused on the escape operation of Maria and Black Widow, instead we are given a story of a former SHIELD operative locating Tony Stark and feeling terrible about doing his job and reporting to Norman. Despite this being an Iron Man book, the emotional core of this issue is held entirely by this operative Christopher Walsh. It is a testament to Fraction’s writing that in the span of a single issue I completely cared about this character and found his conflict perplexing. Every single panel of this character feels like someone who hates themselves but keeps doing their work because it is their job. This has a lot to do with some of Salvador Larroca’s art. He has casted Walsh with a sorrow and emotion that most characters (and let’s face it, actors) can’t portray. You will be convinced that this is a man completely tortured by the conflict before him even without words. In fact some of the best material comes when he doesn’t have any words. It is also during these scenes that we get the single most Norman Osborn moment that Fraction has written. I’ve been on the fence about Norman’s portrayal in this book but with the line “I’m Norman Osborn. That’s all the authorization I need.” And then he winks at the reader. In this small, almost insignificant moment, I completely believe this is Norman Osborn and not a writer trying to write Norman.
Now in close second for emotional moment of the issue is Tony Stark’s interaction with kids in Afghanistan. And I am going to be honest, I saw this sequence begin and I was ready for this to be a clichéd moment just before we get to the final act of the World’s Most Wanted storyline. But instead, we have Fraction proving he was born to write Stark by keeping him consistent with everything that has been established about Stark in Fraction’s run and in general by recent writers.
Larrocca’s art needs to be addressed. Other than Walsh, most of his people look off. Most of them have the same head shape but more dramatically contrasting is the look of Tony Stark without his shirt on. He doesn’t look like a person. He looks like a cracked rock and this is a problem. That is not to say that all of his art is bad. All of his machines and settings look great. He can draw an Iron Man Armor like no other, but he really needs to improve his people.
8.9
Here it is, the penultimate issue of Matt Fraction’s classic storyline. I say classic in that unless Fraction gives up completely on plotting the last issue of this story arc, this will go down as one of those runs where if someone asks for a good Iron Man story, you will tell them about World’s Most Wanted.
The issue picks up where the last issue concluded with Tony in Afghanistan, almost completely devoid of his knowledge. We have Maria Hill and The Black Widow in a H.A.M.M.E.R. cell in Avenger’s Tower and the former armor, Rescue, of Pepper Potts being held by Norman Osborn.
The majority of the issue is limited down to just two threads. We have the Afghanistan plot line and the Tower plot line. The Tower plotline is not entirely what is expected. Instead of being focused on the escape operation of Maria and Black Widow, instead we are given a story of a former SHIELD operative locating Tony Stark and feeling terrible about doing his job and reporting to Norman. Despite this being an Iron Man book, the emotional core of this issue is held entirely by this operative Christopher Walsh. It is a testament to Fraction’s writing that in the span of a single issue I completely cared about this character and found his conflict perplexing. Every single panel of this character feels like someone who hates themselves but keeps doing their work because it is their job. This has a lot to do with some of Salvador Larroca’s art. He has casted Walsh with a sorrow and emotion that most characters (and let’s face it, actors) can’t portray. You will be convinced that this is a man completely tortured by the conflict before him even without words. In fact some of the best material comes when he doesn’t have any words. It is also during these scenes that we get the single most Norman Osborn moment that Fraction has written. I’ve been on the fence about Norman’s portrayal in this book but with the line “I’m Norman Osborn. That’s all the authorization I need.” And then he winks at the reader. In this small, almost insignificant moment, I completely believe this is Norman Osborn and not a writer trying to write Norman.
Now in close second for emotional moment of the issue is Tony Stark’s interaction with kids in Afghanistan. And I am going to be honest, I saw this sequence begin and I was ready for this to be a clichéd moment just before we get to the final act of the World’s Most Wanted storyline. But instead, we have Fraction proving he was born to write Stark by keeping him consistent with everything that has been established about Stark in Fraction’s run and in general by recent writers.
Larrocca’s art needs to be addressed. Other than Walsh, most of his people look off. Most of them have the same head shape but more dramatically contrasting is the look of Tony Stark without his shirt on. He doesn’t look like a person. He looks like a cracked rock and this is a problem. That is not to say that all of his art is bad. All of his machines and settings look great. He can draw an Iron Man Armor like no other, but he really needs to improve his people.
8.9
Friday, October 16, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 8
I apologies for the week entries this week, hopefully the entries for next week will be more up to par.
30.Monty Python And the Holy Grail(1975)
Director: Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones
Mother Fraking Monty Python. Easily the most commonly loved comedy of all time.
29.Ferris Bueller's Day off(1986)
Director: John Hughes
If there is one classic movie that can properly put teenage lifestyle into perspective, it is Ferris. Come see Alan Ruckman, some chick no one remembers, and Matthew Broderick.
28.Lion King(1994)
Director: Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff
This is the quintessential 90's animated film. Interesting Characters. Great musical numbers. If you aren't hooked into this story you need to stop watching movies because you are wrong.
27.Psycho(1960)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
This is Hitchcock's masterpiece. It defies Horror conventions and set the bar for decades to come. You'll never look at a shower the same way again.
26.Eternal Sunshine of the spotless Mind(2004)
Director: Michel Gondry
I might call it a love story in reverse. But at the same time it inspires you to reflect upon your own tales and adventures and self examine.
25.Finding Nemo(2003)
Director: Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich
It's adorable.
24.Charlie Bartlett(2007)
Director: Jon Poll
I'll take flak for this as well. I think all of the casting in this movie is amazing, and the story is absolutely engaging.
23.Sunshine Cleaning(2008)
Director: Christine Jeffs
I really liked this movie. It a number of ways it suprised me and I didn't expect it to turn out the way it did. I was very impressed.
22.Chinatown(1974)
Director: Roman Polanski
"Forget it Jake, it's Chinatown."
21.Guess Who's Coming to Dinner(1967)
Director: Stanley Kramer
Not what you were expecting was it?
This is such an amazing film. It is a masterpiece far beyond Citizen Kane. It tackles so many issues that are still relevant today(and if you don't think they are relevant you are not paying attention to your world). The world and movie developed here are engrossing and you won't be able to stop watching. Sidney Poitier delivers one of the best acting performances in a film. Period.
30.Monty Python And the Holy Grail(1975)
Director: Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones
Mother Fraking Monty Python. Easily the most commonly loved comedy of all time.
29.Ferris Bueller's Day off(1986)
Director: John Hughes
If there is one classic movie that can properly put teenage lifestyle into perspective, it is Ferris. Come see Alan Ruckman, some chick no one remembers, and Matthew Broderick.
28.Lion King(1994)
Director: Roger Allers & Rob Minkoff
This is the quintessential 90's animated film. Interesting Characters. Great musical numbers. If you aren't hooked into this story you need to stop watching movies because you are wrong.
27.Psycho(1960)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
This is Hitchcock's masterpiece. It defies Horror conventions and set the bar for decades to come. You'll never look at a shower the same way again.
26.Eternal Sunshine of the spotless Mind(2004)
Director: Michel Gondry
I might call it a love story in reverse. But at the same time it inspires you to reflect upon your own tales and adventures and self examine.
25.Finding Nemo(2003)
Director: Andrew Stanton and Lee Unkrich
It's adorable.
24.Charlie Bartlett(2007)
Director: Jon Poll
I'll take flak for this as well. I think all of the casting in this movie is amazing, and the story is absolutely engaging.
23.Sunshine Cleaning(2008)
Director: Christine Jeffs
I really liked this movie. It a number of ways it suprised me and I didn't expect it to turn out the way it did. I was very impressed.
22.Chinatown(1974)
Director: Roman Polanski
"Forget it Jake, it's Chinatown."
21.Guess Who's Coming to Dinner(1967)
Director: Stanley Kramer
Not what you were expecting was it?
This is such an amazing film. It is a masterpiece far beyond Citizen Kane. It tackles so many issues that are still relevant today(and if you don't think they are relevant you are not paying attention to your world). The world and movie developed here are engrossing and you won't be able to stop watching. Sidney Poitier delivers one of the best acting performances in a film. Period.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Dark Reign: The List – Daredevil One-Shot
Dark Reign: The List – Daredevil One-Shot
After a fairly spectacular end game for the last year by Ed Brubaker, we now have his replacement on Daredevil, Andy Diggle. However in the story proper we don’t get to see new regular artist Roberto De La Torre. So all in all this issue should serve two purposes. 1) Setting up Diggle’s new story arc. And 2) continue the story for The List storyline. So is this what we get? Not really.
To begin with while the plot all revolves around Norman Osborn sending Bullseye after Daredevil it doesn’t feel like it’s even relevant. This could have easily been, Bullseye tries to kill Daredevil story and done the exact same thing. Norman even only appears in two pages total and he’s not scripted poorly, he does feel scripted. In fact, the entire plot begs to wonder, if Norman can send his Avengers as their villain personas after people, then why bother have his Black Ops Team, Thunderbolts exist at all? It doesn’t make sense.
Other things that don’t make sense? Lady Bullseye and The Kingpin’s involvement. Now I’ll admit, I really liked how subtle the entire plot that they have laid in placed, and I think I might have missed this had it not stuck out like a sore thumb, but it is an interesting turn and gives me quite a bit of hope for Diggle’s storyline. The only flaw is the obvious questions involving Bullseye and Lady Bullseye. You would think that someone who practically worships a character, would either have reservations about manipulating them or would have tried to interact with said character. It is a small g ripe that might be a storyline that Diggle will address, but in this one shot I’m really disappointed.
The bulk of the issue however is an action sequence that doesn’t do anything too terribly original for a Daredevil Bullseye fight. The conclusion of the fight is cool and most certainly much more drastic than we’ve seen Bullseye take before, but everything else is simply inconsequential. The result of said actions only lead Daredevil to the same story point that nearly every other hero in the Marvel universe has been jumping on board to. Apparently wanting to stop Norman Osborn is this years “Who do you Trust”, “are you a skrull” editorial theme.
The best elements are the potential that Diggle establishes. He has taken the cast and supporting characters that Brubaker(and to a certain extent, Bendis before him) had established and set them up for a more involved recurring role.
Billy Tan’s art well done most the time, giving characters diverse character traits(such as head size). He even manages to frame a few sequences in a minimalistic way to improve the story. That said most of his framing feelings typical and traditional, failing to break new ground and show off the gritty world of Daredevil, instead evoking images I’d expect out of an Avengers book.
I need to give the editors their due, they give you a sneak peek of Daredevil 501 and some sketches of De La Torre’s new design for The Hand Ninjas which look like they fit the world of Daredevil.
SCORE: 6.2
After a fairly spectacular end game for the last year by Ed Brubaker, we now have his replacement on Daredevil, Andy Diggle. However in the story proper we don’t get to see new regular artist Roberto De La Torre. So all in all this issue should serve two purposes. 1) Setting up Diggle’s new story arc. And 2) continue the story for The List storyline. So is this what we get? Not really.
To begin with while the plot all revolves around Norman Osborn sending Bullseye after Daredevil it doesn’t feel like it’s even relevant. This could have easily been, Bullseye tries to kill Daredevil story and done the exact same thing. Norman even only appears in two pages total and he’s not scripted poorly, he does feel scripted. In fact, the entire plot begs to wonder, if Norman can send his Avengers as their villain personas after people, then why bother have his Black Ops Team, Thunderbolts exist at all? It doesn’t make sense.
Other things that don’t make sense? Lady Bullseye and The Kingpin’s involvement. Now I’ll admit, I really liked how subtle the entire plot that they have laid in placed, and I think I might have missed this had it not stuck out like a sore thumb, but it is an interesting turn and gives me quite a bit of hope for Diggle’s storyline. The only flaw is the obvious questions involving Bullseye and Lady Bullseye. You would think that someone who practically worships a character, would either have reservations about manipulating them or would have tried to interact with said character. It is a small g ripe that might be a storyline that Diggle will address, but in this one shot I’m really disappointed.
The bulk of the issue however is an action sequence that doesn’t do anything too terribly original for a Daredevil Bullseye fight. The conclusion of the fight is cool and most certainly much more drastic than we’ve seen Bullseye take before, but everything else is simply inconsequential. The result of said actions only lead Daredevil to the same story point that nearly every other hero in the Marvel universe has been jumping on board to. Apparently wanting to stop Norman Osborn is this years “Who do you Trust”, “are you a skrull” editorial theme.
The best elements are the potential that Diggle establishes. He has taken the cast and supporting characters that Brubaker(and to a certain extent, Bendis before him) had established and set them up for a more involved recurring role.
Billy Tan’s art well done most the time, giving characters diverse character traits(such as head size). He even manages to frame a few sequences in a minimalistic way to improve the story. That said most of his framing feelings typical and traditional, failing to break new ground and show off the gritty world of Daredevil, instead evoking images I’d expect out of an Avengers book.
I need to give the editors their due, they give you a sneak peek of Daredevil 501 and some sketches of De La Torre’s new design for The Hand Ninjas which look like they fit the world of Daredevil.
SCORE: 6.2
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
What the Hell Marvel
...
I think the picture speaks for it self(after I did some clever changes) :)
Seriously? What idiot thought Ultimatum was a masterpiece?
Guitar Hero: Van Halen
This post coming early as my schedule has required me to move the next installment of the top 100 films to Friday. (sometime Wednesday I'll also upload two of three comic reviews I did for an application, with the third showing up 4-6 weeks later after I have an idea whether I get the position I am applying for or not.
So instead for Wednesday I have to review the sneak preview copy of Guitar Hero: Van Halen.
First off I am going to say this quickly, Not a fan of Van Halen? Don't buy this game. Fan of Van Halen but afraid there will not be enough hard songs? Well the second half of the setlist is tough, I'll give it that, but only the three solos are really going to give you much trouble.
That out of the way, this is the best set list Guitar Hero has put out since Guitar Hero 3. It is quickly looking like the specialty games are going to be the games for Hardcore players and that the series proper is going to be there to accommodate more of the casual fans.
Of the setlist, only 19 songs are not by Van Halen, but many of those 19 were suggested by Wolfgang Van Halen. The rest are all Van Halen and almost all of them are classics. There are only 4-6 classic Van Halen songs I felt were missing and those are all Sammy Hagar era songs and therefore understandable that they are missing. I hope we will eventually get them as DLC for either Van Halen(which I don't think supports DLC) or for GH5 so that it can be in our collection.
The game returns to form with the return of Hyperspeed as a cheat, Tiered Career that makes sense, Money System, and great customization.
It is the Metalica engine with Van Halen Frame. The songs are fun.
The downside? There's not even 50 songs in the setlist. So unless you really really like Van Halen, I'd wait for it to go used to get it at 20-30 dollars. And then hopefully it can hold you over until the next specialty game. The menu system and graphics have sadly reverted to The Metalica graphics and when I first started playing I thought something was wrong with my game because the note chart had gone back to it's Metalica and it doesn't look nearly as polished as five.
Nitpicking aside, this game has made Guitar Hero fun again for both the hardcore player and the casual player resulting in a hit.
This score is based on my love of Van Halen and should be warned as such:
8.7
So instead for Wednesday I have to review the sneak preview copy of Guitar Hero: Van Halen.
First off I am going to say this quickly, Not a fan of Van Halen? Don't buy this game. Fan of Van Halen but afraid there will not be enough hard songs? Well the second half of the setlist is tough, I'll give it that, but only the three solos are really going to give you much trouble.
That out of the way, this is the best set list Guitar Hero has put out since Guitar Hero 3. It is quickly looking like the specialty games are going to be the games for Hardcore players and that the series proper is going to be there to accommodate more of the casual fans.
Of the setlist, only 19 songs are not by Van Halen, but many of those 19 were suggested by Wolfgang Van Halen. The rest are all Van Halen and almost all of them are classics. There are only 4-6 classic Van Halen songs I felt were missing and those are all Sammy Hagar era songs and therefore understandable that they are missing. I hope we will eventually get them as DLC for either Van Halen(which I don't think supports DLC) or for GH5 so that it can be in our collection.
The game returns to form with the return of Hyperspeed as a cheat, Tiered Career that makes sense, Money System, and great customization.
It is the Metalica engine with Van Halen Frame. The songs are fun.
The downside? There's not even 50 songs in the setlist. So unless you really really like Van Halen, I'd wait for it to go used to get it at 20-30 dollars. And then hopefully it can hold you over until the next specialty game. The menu system and graphics have sadly reverted to The Metalica graphics and when I first started playing I thought something was wrong with my game because the note chart had gone back to it's Metalica and it doesn't look nearly as polished as five.
Nitpicking aside, this game has made Guitar Hero fun again for both the hardcore player and the casual player resulting in a hit.
This score is based on my love of Van Halen and should be warned as such:
8.7
Monday, October 12, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 7
40.Blade Runner(2007,1982,1992)
Director: Ridley Scott
I really love this film. It blends my two non classic genres(Noir and Science Fiction which are both young, no more than 200 years each). Now of course there are in face quite a few different cuts, but the final cut is pretty definitive. That said this is one of those instances where you can choose how you want this film to play out. I'm going to warn you this film does not come out and tell you everything that it is happen and requires deeper study(going against what I believed for Citizen Kane) however, this film rewards you with a greater understanding on the world that Ridley Scott crafted using a Philip K. Dick novel as the blueprint.
39.Hellboy 2(2008)
Director: Guillermo Del Toro
This is another film part of the second wave of comic book movies, more importantly it takes on the genre of Fantasy. The unique thing about the second wave of comics(that began with Iron Man) was that they instead of making an action/comedy starring comic characters, they instead went about making good genre movies(Fantasy for Hellboy, TechnoScifi for IronMan, Crime Drama for Dark Knight) and you can tell this was the goal because the movies are about that. They aren't about making a quick buck off of a trend, instead it is all about tell a good story. Hellboy 2 is an amazing fantasy movie(though as a fantasy movie it is second to Del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth) but it makes up for it by offering up a great experience that while respecting the original source material it also respects it's audience to give you a good story and an original one at that.
38.Cabinent of Doctor Cagliari(1920)
Director: Robert Wiene
This is a classic expressionist film that does such a great job telling such an old story that sometimes you wonder if it really was made in the 1920's.
37.The Third Man(1949)
Director: Carol Reed
Check it out, many film fans will say its better than both Citizen Kane and Casablanca. It's noir. It's got Orson Welles. It is every hyperbole I could throw at you. Check it out.
36.Rambo(2008)
Director: Sylvester Stallone
Half an hour of talking, an hour of action and a compelling messege that is relevant to today's audiences.
35.Grave of the Fireflies(1988)
Director: Isao Takahata
This movie is really heartbreaking and it is such an amazing film, and I'll admit it, this movie makes me cry because it is both really good and really sad and will aim for your heart and not let go. It'll depict a horrible image of WWII for you from a perspective you might not have seen. It is rare right now, but if you find someone who has it, see it.
34.Jurassic Park(1993)
Director: Steven Spielberg
What kid didn't love dinosaurs at least for a little while? This film actually manages to hold up as a great movie about itself. More thriller than scifi or Horror, its message isn't necessary much anymore but it gives you a good look into where we predicted technology could take us.
33.Back to the Future(1985)
Director: Robert Zumekis
A classic comedy about time travel.
32.Fight Club(1999)
Director: David Fincher
Has someone ruined the ending for this movie for you? No? and you haven't seen it? Go see it. It's a mind puzzle on top of being a masculine awareness movie.
31.Toy Story(1995)
Director: John Lasseter
The original pixar film, this movie has everything any good family film has, which is the ability to entertain the whole family. Kudos team pixar, kudos.
Director: Ridley Scott
I really love this film. It blends my two non classic genres(Noir and Science Fiction which are both young, no more than 200 years each). Now of course there are in face quite a few different cuts, but the final cut is pretty definitive. That said this is one of those instances where you can choose how you want this film to play out. I'm going to warn you this film does not come out and tell you everything that it is happen and requires deeper study(going against what I believed for Citizen Kane) however, this film rewards you with a greater understanding on the world that Ridley Scott crafted using a Philip K. Dick novel as the blueprint.
39.Hellboy 2(2008)
Director: Guillermo Del Toro
This is another film part of the second wave of comic book movies, more importantly it takes on the genre of Fantasy. The unique thing about the second wave of comics(that began with Iron Man) was that they instead of making an action/comedy starring comic characters, they instead went about making good genre movies(Fantasy for Hellboy, TechnoScifi for IronMan, Crime Drama for Dark Knight) and you can tell this was the goal because the movies are about that. They aren't about making a quick buck off of a trend, instead it is all about tell a good story. Hellboy 2 is an amazing fantasy movie(though as a fantasy movie it is second to Del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth) but it makes up for it by offering up a great experience that while respecting the original source material it also respects it's audience to give you a good story and an original one at that.
38.Cabinent of Doctor Cagliari(1920)
Director: Robert Wiene
This is a classic expressionist film that does such a great job telling such an old story that sometimes you wonder if it really was made in the 1920's.
37.The Third Man(1949)
Director: Carol Reed
Check it out, many film fans will say its better than both Citizen Kane and Casablanca. It's noir. It's got Orson Welles. It is every hyperbole I could throw at you. Check it out.
36.Rambo(2008)
Director: Sylvester Stallone
Half an hour of talking, an hour of action and a compelling messege that is relevant to today's audiences.
35.Grave of the Fireflies(1988)
Director: Isao Takahata
This movie is really heartbreaking and it is such an amazing film, and I'll admit it, this movie makes me cry because it is both really good and really sad and will aim for your heart and not let go. It'll depict a horrible image of WWII for you from a perspective you might not have seen. It is rare right now, but if you find someone who has it, see it.
34.Jurassic Park(1993)
Director: Steven Spielberg
What kid didn't love dinosaurs at least for a little while? This film actually manages to hold up as a great movie about itself. More thriller than scifi or Horror, its message isn't necessary much anymore but it gives you a good look into where we predicted technology could take us.
33.Back to the Future(1985)
Director: Robert Zumekis
A classic comedy about time travel.
32.Fight Club(1999)
Director: David Fincher
Has someone ruined the ending for this movie for you? No? and you haven't seen it? Go see it. It's a mind puzzle on top of being a masculine awareness movie.
31.Toy Story(1995)
Director: John Lasseter
The original pixar film, this movie has everything any good family film has, which is the ability to entertain the whole family. Kudos team pixar, kudos.
Friday, October 9, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 6
50.Citizen Kane(1941)
Director: Orson Welles
Ow. Ow. I can feel you verbally yelling at me from across the internet for Kane only being number fifty on my list. But here me out, I've had to watch this film more times than I can count to STUDY it. I've stopped being to enjoy it as much as I once could. This is a list about my enjoyment of film because film shouldn't just be art, it's entertainment, which makes it far more complex. Also way smarter men
49.Terminator(1984)
Director: James Cameron
This is one of the best low budget action films ever made. This is the movie that made Arnold a star and it started a franchise. More horror than it is action, the film does a good job at setting up the world that this film is set within and telling it's story. Yes there is some over abundance of nudity at times but in it's defense almost all of the action, all of the sex(the one scene) and the nudity it all contributes to the greater narrative. There is no Roman Polanski lets have lady Macbeth run around naked while she gives her soliloquy for no reason. This is Grade A material in the world of Science Fiction and Horror and does a good job blending both genres.
48.Dedication(2007)
Director: Justin Theroux
This is not the film you expect it to be. It wasn't the film I expected to it to be. It is one of those few romantic comedies since Say anything that I felt truly deserves to exist. The three leads(Billy Crudup, Mandy Moore, and Tom Wilkinson) each knock their performances out of expectations. There are some many story elements that work well and much of the films dialogue and ideas function truly truly well. It has a dark sense of humor to it and it is a bit touching. But it's a bit true to life in a number of respects. And there is a level of complexity in the relationships of the characters that you won't generally find in most films.
47.Meet the Robinsons(2007)
Director: Stephen J. Anderson
To be honest, this is one of those animated films that completely tugs at my heart strings. This is one of those movies that will make you laugh with some of its silly little humor and then it will also also make you feel for the characters and what they go through.
46. 12 monkeys(1995)
Director: Terry Giliam
Two time travel films in a row? What? Alright This is one of Terry Gilliam's crazy out there films. It is based on the french "movie" Le Jettee, and it takes a look in the inevitability of time travel. Brad Pitt delivers one hell of a performance. This is one of those films that gets better with each viewing.
45.Apocolypse Now(1979)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Marlon Brando is amazing in this movie. Also it has such a classic story that will wondering just how f'ed up Vietnam really was.
44.V for Vendetta(2005)
Director: James McTeigue
Let Alan Moore hate on this film all he wants. The creators created a film where you can sympathize with a terrorist and even root for him. That's quite the accomplishment in it of itself.
43.Beauty and the Beast(1991)
Director: Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise
Classic fairy tale of Love and hatred of those that are different and how neither is right in either side of the hatred. A truly great and touching Fairy Tale. One of the last great solo disney projects.
42.Iron Man(2008)
Director: Jon Favreau
This film basically marks the new era in SuperHero movies. It will be remember as the film that started marvels film universe. But more importantly, you have Robert Downey Jr. playing a character he was born to play. Tony Stark was made for him and you'll be believe and care for this guy even when he's a jerk because of Downey's Performance.
41.Touch Of Evil(1958)
Director: Orson Welles
An Orson Welles Noir classic of life sprialing out of control and police wanting to cross the line even when they shouldn't. A precursor for Dirty Harry.
Director: Orson Welles
Ow. Ow. I can feel you verbally yelling at me from across the internet for Kane only being number fifty on my list. But here me out, I've had to watch this film more times than I can count to STUDY it. I've stopped being to enjoy it as much as I once could. This is a list about my enjoyment of film because film shouldn't just be art, it's entertainment, which makes it far more complex. Also way smarter men
49.Terminator(1984)
Director: James Cameron
This is one of the best low budget action films ever made. This is the movie that made Arnold a star and it started a franchise. More horror than it is action, the film does a good job at setting up the world that this film is set within and telling it's story. Yes there is some over abundance of nudity at times but in it's defense almost all of the action, all of the sex(the one scene) and the nudity it all contributes to the greater narrative. There is no Roman Polanski lets have lady Macbeth run around naked while she gives her soliloquy for no reason. This is Grade A material in the world of Science Fiction and Horror and does a good job blending both genres.
48.Dedication(2007)
Director: Justin Theroux
This is not the film you expect it to be. It wasn't the film I expected to it to be. It is one of those few romantic comedies since Say anything that I felt truly deserves to exist. The three leads(Billy Crudup, Mandy Moore, and Tom Wilkinson) each knock their performances out of expectations. There are some many story elements that work well and much of the films dialogue and ideas function truly truly well. It has a dark sense of humor to it and it is a bit touching. But it's a bit true to life in a number of respects. And there is a level of complexity in the relationships of the characters that you won't generally find in most films.
47.Meet the Robinsons(2007)
Director: Stephen J. Anderson
To be honest, this is one of those animated films that completely tugs at my heart strings. This is one of those movies that will make you laugh with some of its silly little humor and then it will also also make you feel for the characters and what they go through.
46. 12 monkeys(1995)
Director: Terry Giliam
Two time travel films in a row? What? Alright This is one of Terry Gilliam's crazy out there films. It is based on the french "movie" Le Jettee, and it takes a look in the inevitability of time travel. Brad Pitt delivers one hell of a performance. This is one of those films that gets better with each viewing.
45.Apocolypse Now(1979)
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Marlon Brando is amazing in this movie. Also it has such a classic story that will wondering just how f'ed up Vietnam really was.
44.V for Vendetta(2005)
Director: James McTeigue
Let Alan Moore hate on this film all he wants. The creators created a film where you can sympathize with a terrorist and even root for him. That's quite the accomplishment in it of itself.
43.Beauty and the Beast(1991)
Director: Gary Trousdale & Kirk Wise
Classic fairy tale of Love and hatred of those that are different and how neither is right in either side of the hatred. A truly great and touching Fairy Tale. One of the last great solo disney projects.
42.Iron Man(2008)
Director: Jon Favreau
This film basically marks the new era in SuperHero movies. It will be remember as the film that started marvels film universe. But more importantly, you have Robert Downey Jr. playing a character he was born to play. Tony Stark was made for him and you'll be believe and care for this guy even when he's a jerk because of Downey's Performance.
41.Touch Of Evil(1958)
Director: Orson Welles
An Orson Welles Noir classic of life sprialing out of control and police wanting to cross the line even when they shouldn't. A precursor for Dirty Harry.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 5
60.the Prestige(2006)
Director: Christopher Nolan
An interesting departure from Batman Begins that returns back to the style that has made this man famous. The Prestige does everything that The Illusionist had wanted to do but failed. I've found it enjoyable upon multiple viewings and suggest a second look if you weren't sure about it your first time.
59.Fantasia(1940)
Director: Various
Music? Check. Animation? Check. Together? Check check. I'm not a musical-ologist. I don't study music. But I was moved by a number of the musical numbers in conjunction with the images presented to me in a way that I'm not by either one by their lonesome.
58.Shawshank Redemption(1994)
Director: Frank Darabont
Please don't make me explain why this film has to be on this list.
57.Die Hard(1988)
Director: John McTiernan
This is the quintessential action/Comedy.
56.Rear Window(1954)
Director: Hitchcock
55.Nightmare Before Christmas(1993)
Director: Henry Selick
This comes with a caveat. I can only suggest this film if you can A) stand stop motion, B) stand musicals, and C) stand the film that basically started the Emo movement. Get past those three things and you will find yourself immersed in a great universe that is so rich and textured that after your first viewing, start watching the background for all of the colorful characters.
54.Stand By Me(1986)
Director: Rob Reiner
Not exactly what you expect out of Stephen King but the film does rock a cool story about growing up and really defines coming of age movie for me.
53.The Matrix(1999)
Director: Wachowski brothers
I am sure you have heard every thing to be said against this film. You might have heard the things in favor of this film. But there
52.Star trek Wrath of Khan(1982)
Director: Nicholas Meyer
I know I said that the 2009 film was really good and might have said it was better because it was more easily accessible. all of which is true. But if you love that classic series, and even if you don't, this is the highlight of the original time line. Khan proves to be an epic film filled with interesting characters and Ricardo Montaban's Pecks of doom.
51.Unbreakable(2000)
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
In my opinion, this is the only M. Night movie worth a dime. It is a really cool, original super hero story that's not. I know, your saying "Max, that doesn't make any sense." Well let me explain. This is a movie about a man who has a super power. But he goes about it the way many people would, which is hesitantly. Yes the twist is obvious like all M Night twists. But you get two really interesting characters out of Sam Jackson and Bruce Willis and it is one of those experiences that may not have a profound affect on you, but it does show that even before The Dark Knight, there were people out there trying to get the idea of super heroes taken seriously.
Director: Christopher Nolan
An interesting departure from Batman Begins that returns back to the style that has made this man famous. The Prestige does everything that The Illusionist had wanted to do but failed. I've found it enjoyable upon multiple viewings and suggest a second look if you weren't sure about it your first time.
59.Fantasia(1940)
Director: Various
Music? Check. Animation? Check. Together? Check check. I'm not a musical-ologist. I don't study music. But I was moved by a number of the musical numbers in conjunction with the images presented to me in a way that I'm not by either one by their lonesome.
58.Shawshank Redemption(1994)
Director: Frank Darabont
Please don't make me explain why this film has to be on this list.
57.Die Hard(1988)
Director: John McTiernan
This is the quintessential action/Comedy.
56.Rear Window(1954)
Director: Hitchcock
55.Nightmare Before Christmas(1993)
Director: Henry Selick
This comes with a caveat. I can only suggest this film if you can A) stand stop motion, B) stand musicals, and C) stand the film that basically started the Emo movement. Get past those three things and you will find yourself immersed in a great universe that is so rich and textured that after your first viewing, start watching the background for all of the colorful characters.
54.Stand By Me(1986)
Director: Rob Reiner
Not exactly what you expect out of Stephen King but the film does rock a cool story about growing up and really defines coming of age movie for me.
53.The Matrix(1999)
Director: Wachowski brothers
I am sure you have heard every thing to be said against this film. You might have heard the things in favor of this film. But there
52.Star trek Wrath of Khan(1982)
Director: Nicholas Meyer
I know I said that the 2009 film was really good and might have said it was better because it was more easily accessible. all of which is true. But if you love that classic series, and even if you don't, this is the highlight of the original time line. Khan proves to be an epic film filled with interesting characters and Ricardo Montaban's Pecks of doom.
51.Unbreakable(2000)
Director: M. Night Shyamalan
In my opinion, this is the only M. Night movie worth a dime. It is a really cool, original super hero story that's not. I know, your saying "Max, that doesn't make any sense." Well let me explain. This is a movie about a man who has a super power. But he goes about it the way many people would, which is hesitantly. Yes the twist is obvious like all M Night twists. But you get two really interesting characters out of Sam Jackson and Bruce Willis and it is one of those experiences that may not have a profound affect on you, but it does show that even before The Dark Knight, there were people out there trying to get the idea of super heroes taken seriously.
A little bit of sharing
The check out the following site:
http://stopuweboll.org/
If you know who Uwe Boll is then you already know to sign the petition.
Be clear, Uwe Boll is a German Film Maker(and sometimes boxer) who using a loophole in German technology, I mean government, is able to get his money back from making movies even if they flop. I'm fairly certain he saw the movie(or the play, or the movie based on the play) of The Producers and thought, BRILLIANT. He is a horrible horrible man who thinks everything he does is brilliant and that he is damn near infallible. He has also said that if a million people sign he will stop making movies. Oh dear god we can stop this man? Alright let us do it. Spread the word. He is going down.
http://stopuweboll.org/
If you know who Uwe Boll is then you already know to sign the petition.
Be clear, Uwe Boll is a German Film Maker(and sometimes boxer) who using a loophole in German technology, I mean government, is able to get his money back from making movies even if they flop. I'm fairly certain he saw the movie(or the play, or the movie based on the play) of The Producers and thought, BRILLIANT. He is a horrible horrible man who thinks everything he does is brilliant and that he is damn near infallible. He has also said that if a million people sign he will stop making movies. Oh dear god we can stop this man? Alright let us do it. Spread the word. He is going down.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Terra Khan- The Tester's Dilemma
Terra Khan- The Tester's Dilemma
I've been an avid Planet Eaters fan even before I knew I wanted to play. So to say my second faction out of the base six(Terrasuars) is like the red-headed Bastard Step Son is an understatement. In particular I've NEVER been able to win a game, or even make a game close, using Terra Khan.
I love Terra Khan. When I got into this game 3-4 months ago I knew that whatever monster I got out of my starter would be my secondary faction(unless I pulled a second Gorghadra, and then I'd only play one faction. So when I pulled Terra Khan, I was excited. I thought, "sweet, the Godzilla monster, I can now also grab Rodan at some point and the other three". They were always intended as my secondary faction. So in the last week after finding out the prize for this weeks tournament(mega Tyrranix) I decided, hey look, Terra Khan.
Now as I began testing I discovered this might be worse than I thought(I've even been considering playing the secondary faction for testing purposes, Rogzor). Alright so let's look at Terra Khan himself before we make any judgments.
First His Alpha, because we have no choice in this(hint hint PP, i want some alternate alphas!)
Wow, he's not bad for an TK
Speed: 6
D:6
Brawl:8 *2
Blast(long) 5*1
P; 6*2
Hp: 5
Abilities: Feeding Frenzy(brawl), Munch(Brawl), Berserk(blue), Flank, and Motivator.
Alright so clearly those abilities support two themes. 1) Unit support. With motivator, Flank, Berserk you are clearly supposed to be up in your opponents grill with units with Terra Khan standing beside them so they can just kick the monster. Also Feeding Frenzy makes TK want units next to your opponents monster so he can do that extra damage with brawl.
The other theme, though light, is unit destruction(though to be fair this more supports the idea that you want to be more defensive with TK than you do with say a destroyers monster.
Despite having a blast attack, this form does not support blasting. You really are better off using the extra dice to step or brawl a building for health and or p-dice.
Next we have Ultra Khan.
UK's stats are
S:8
D:5(ick)
Brawl: 9*4 (holy crap)
Blast(short) 7*2
p:7*2
HP: 6
abilities: Lightning attack(brawl), Disrupt blast, Explosion Blast, and Weapon master power attack.
UK is much a change in strategy. No longer do you want to hold back and use your units to support trying to beat on your opponent, this is all about rushing the gates and doing as much damage as you can. Right off the bat you can do one of two things. Brawl twice with dice in play(this should come out to two points of damage) or use a power attack with weapon master. Depending on your available a-dice(which unless you had a full p pool or just won't gain p die from power up, you power up bringing you down to 7-8 A die). at 7 or 8 A-die you really will benefit from doing a power attack since you are likely to gain building damage one way or another. Even if you just use a swat you can make sure to gain something out of it. In other words you want to be using Power attacks over brawl attacks and use the brawl attacks when you are out of P dice.
He can blast, but that's only really good for early disruption, there are easier and better ways to kill units, and if you honestly feel that dropping someone out of hyper is better than killing the hyper form, be my guest, disrupt away.
Lastly we come to my after testing least fave. Mega Khan.
Mk's stats look like this:
S:8
D:5(ick)
Brawl: 9*2
Blast(short) 6*1
p:8*3
HP: 6
something looking odd there? You just traded B die and pools in brawl and blast for a extra pool and b-die for power...
Maybe his abilities will support this idea?
Brawl chain attack, Charge, super rampage, and terrify.
Oh dear god this guy is bad. Chain attack is the single worst way to deal extra damage. this is because it doesn't use dice in play. Terrify isn't really useful either because most of the powerful abilities don't require adjacency, and there are more problematic blasting units than brawling units.
This leaves super rampage and charge as his only good abilities, and charge is only marginally good and can't be used if you are using rampage.
I hate Mega Khan because he offers no synergy within himself. At least UT uses his abilities to make up for his own shorting comings with some attacks so you actually can make a variety of strategies.
Mega Khan's best strategy is to turtle. You field five Mt. Terra's, five apartment buildings, and then an Insurance building and a Imperial state building. ISB is the best P-die production off a single building. Mt T. is No fly zone allowing you to slow down other monsters. And also fire. And then Apartment buildings are obviously Health.
If you didn't know, insurance building is the best building in the game. Shuffle and insurance do wonders for you. Buildings die left and right and this pays you for it. Then Shuffle is great if you need to take that turn where you really need that extra A-dice to take another turn. Be it monster or unit(I'm known for taking up to 7 Monster turns in a row)
Then Mega Khan does things like run( not far for this to work), punch your opponents monster and rampage back to your side of the map. Can't get to your opponents monster without 8 steps? Then make sure you have full pools or else it's not worth using chain attack. I learned with xaxor without perfect dice management, Chain attack helps no one but your opponent.
so lets assume your running ultra Khan.
I judge a defense of a monster based on its defense plus health and then a (-1) for each point bellow 7 on defense. That makes Ultra Khan a 11(-2). Alpha Khan is then a 11(-1). Therefore you either need to be really defensive with Ultra Khan(which again with his abilities does not synergize) or be very aggressive.
This is all well and good, except his Alpha clearly wants to be played defensively. And this comes to my fault with Terra Khan. he doesn't Synergize with himself. I love both Xaxor and Gorghadra because both have a plan and can be played the same. Any monster that requires you to completely change the way you play the game is going to throw you off, especially when you are knocked from one form to the other beyond your control(i.e. disrupt or death of a form) and can mess with any strategies you've built. If your playing as UK or MK and are going nuts at your opponents monster only to flop and roll and get smashed into three buildings and lose your form you are suddenly in the Unit heavy leader form but with no units prepared to support your new situation.
I will admit, there are play style issues going about for me. I'm a far more aggressive player in miniatures(I come from playing Tyranids in 40k) and this is working against me. But I'm also a power attack heavy player. I find that the most damage, control and disruption comes from performing power attacks. And yeah therefore Negation gives me trouble, but there are still ways around that.
Terra Khan, and much of the T-saurs units feel that they are built for turtling. This makes it hard to win timed games. I don't agree with fielding a monster who can't win the timed matches. Because all tournaments are going to have them. This plus his lack of synergy for me to build a unit force upon makes him a subpar monster in my book.
Therefore If you must play TK, play Ultra. But ultimately I can't recommend him.
We will see as time goes on if I finish this series and review the other four T-saurs or if I take the easy way and do an article for the Planet Eaters. I might, if I get any response for it, recommend some of the new faction monsters once I have a better idea of the field.
I've been an avid Planet Eaters fan even before I knew I wanted to play. So to say my second faction out of the base six(Terrasuars) is like the red-headed Bastard Step Son is an understatement. In particular I've NEVER been able to win a game, or even make a game close, using Terra Khan.
I love Terra Khan. When I got into this game 3-4 months ago I knew that whatever monster I got out of my starter would be my secondary faction(unless I pulled a second Gorghadra, and then I'd only play one faction. So when I pulled Terra Khan, I was excited. I thought, "sweet, the Godzilla monster, I can now also grab Rodan at some point and the other three". They were always intended as my secondary faction. So in the last week after finding out the prize for this weeks tournament(mega Tyrranix) I decided, hey look, Terra Khan.
Now as I began testing I discovered this might be worse than I thought(I've even been considering playing the secondary faction for testing purposes, Rogzor). Alright so let's look at Terra Khan himself before we make any judgments.
First His Alpha, because we have no choice in this(hint hint PP, i want some alternate alphas!)
Wow, he's not bad for an TK
Speed: 6
D:6
Brawl:8 *2
Blast(long) 5*1
P; 6*2
Hp: 5
Abilities: Feeding Frenzy(brawl), Munch(Brawl), Berserk(blue), Flank, and Motivator.
Alright so clearly those abilities support two themes. 1) Unit support. With motivator, Flank, Berserk you are clearly supposed to be up in your opponents grill with units with Terra Khan standing beside them so they can just kick the monster. Also Feeding Frenzy makes TK want units next to your opponents monster so he can do that extra damage with brawl.
The other theme, though light, is unit destruction(though to be fair this more supports the idea that you want to be more defensive with TK than you do with say a destroyers monster.
Despite having a blast attack, this form does not support blasting. You really are better off using the extra dice to step or brawl a building for health and or p-dice.
Next we have Ultra Khan.
UK's stats are
S:8
D:5(ick)
Brawl: 9*4 (holy crap)
Blast(short) 7*2
p:7*2
HP: 6
abilities: Lightning attack(brawl), Disrupt blast, Explosion Blast, and Weapon master power attack.
UK is much a change in strategy. No longer do you want to hold back and use your units to support trying to beat on your opponent, this is all about rushing the gates and doing as much damage as you can. Right off the bat you can do one of two things. Brawl twice with dice in play(this should come out to two points of damage) or use a power attack with weapon master. Depending on your available a-dice(which unless you had a full p pool or just won't gain p die from power up, you power up bringing you down to 7-8 A die). at 7 or 8 A-die you really will benefit from doing a power attack since you are likely to gain building damage one way or another. Even if you just use a swat you can make sure to gain something out of it. In other words you want to be using Power attacks over brawl attacks and use the brawl attacks when you are out of P dice.
He can blast, but that's only really good for early disruption, there are easier and better ways to kill units, and if you honestly feel that dropping someone out of hyper is better than killing the hyper form, be my guest, disrupt away.
Lastly we come to my after testing least fave. Mega Khan.
Mk's stats look like this:
S:8
D:5(ick)
Brawl: 9*2
Blast(short) 6*1
p:8*3
HP: 6
something looking odd there? You just traded B die and pools in brawl and blast for a extra pool and b-die for power...
Maybe his abilities will support this idea?
Brawl chain attack, Charge, super rampage, and terrify.
Oh dear god this guy is bad. Chain attack is the single worst way to deal extra damage. this is because it doesn't use dice in play. Terrify isn't really useful either because most of the powerful abilities don't require adjacency, and there are more problematic blasting units than brawling units.
This leaves super rampage and charge as his only good abilities, and charge is only marginally good and can't be used if you are using rampage.
I hate Mega Khan because he offers no synergy within himself. At least UT uses his abilities to make up for his own shorting comings with some attacks so you actually can make a variety of strategies.
Mega Khan's best strategy is to turtle. You field five Mt. Terra's, five apartment buildings, and then an Insurance building and a Imperial state building. ISB is the best P-die production off a single building. Mt T. is No fly zone allowing you to slow down other monsters. And also fire. And then Apartment buildings are obviously Health.
If you didn't know, insurance building is the best building in the game. Shuffle and insurance do wonders for you. Buildings die left and right and this pays you for it. Then Shuffle is great if you need to take that turn where you really need that extra A-dice to take another turn. Be it monster or unit(I'm known for taking up to 7 Monster turns in a row)
Then Mega Khan does things like run( not far for this to work), punch your opponents monster and rampage back to your side of the map. Can't get to your opponents monster without 8 steps? Then make sure you have full pools or else it's not worth using chain attack. I learned with xaxor without perfect dice management, Chain attack helps no one but your opponent.
so lets assume your running ultra Khan.
I judge a defense of a monster based on its defense plus health and then a (-1) for each point bellow 7 on defense. That makes Ultra Khan a 11(-2). Alpha Khan is then a 11(-1). Therefore you either need to be really defensive with Ultra Khan(which again with his abilities does not synergize) or be very aggressive.
This is all well and good, except his Alpha clearly wants to be played defensively. And this comes to my fault with Terra Khan. he doesn't Synergize with himself. I love both Xaxor and Gorghadra because both have a plan and can be played the same. Any monster that requires you to completely change the way you play the game is going to throw you off, especially when you are knocked from one form to the other beyond your control(i.e. disrupt or death of a form) and can mess with any strategies you've built. If your playing as UK or MK and are going nuts at your opponents monster only to flop and roll and get smashed into three buildings and lose your form you are suddenly in the Unit heavy leader form but with no units prepared to support your new situation.
I will admit, there are play style issues going about for me. I'm a far more aggressive player in miniatures(I come from playing Tyranids in 40k) and this is working against me. But I'm also a power attack heavy player. I find that the most damage, control and disruption comes from performing power attacks. And yeah therefore Negation gives me trouble, but there are still ways around that.
Terra Khan, and much of the T-saurs units feel that they are built for turtling. This makes it hard to win timed games. I don't agree with fielding a monster who can't win the timed matches. Because all tournaments are going to have them. This plus his lack of synergy for me to build a unit force upon makes him a subpar monster in my book.
Therefore If you must play TK, play Ultra. But ultimately I can't recommend him.
We will see as time goes on if I finish this series and review the other four T-saurs or if I take the easy way and do an article for the Planet Eaters. I might, if I get any response for it, recommend some of the new faction monsters once I have a better idea of the field.
Monday, October 5, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 4
70.LA Confidential(1997)
Director: Curtis Hanson
This is a well written, well executed, and well acted film. I have a few issues here and there with the direction, but there are alot of moments in the film that simply will blow you away. This is one of the film where I feel like Guy Pierce is one of our most underused actors of our generation and could use more exposure.
I can not mention this film without mentioning Kevin Spacey. He sells this movie for me. Without Kevin Spacey this film might not be on this list, his acting is top notch, and I'd almost argue it's his best performance he's given. Kim Baisinger is pretty spectacular in the film as well.
69.Say Anything(1989)
Director: Cameron Crowe
This is the be all end all of romance movies. No it's not a "chick flick". There are a number of negative conotations associated with "chick flick" that this film shouldn't be grouped in with. It does follow the age old basic romance movie formula, Girl meets boy. boy falls in love with girl. Boy gets girl. Boy loses girl. Boy wins girl back. But there are also some interesting sub plots along with a fantastic character played by John Cussack. One of things that I believe Cameron Crowe knew was that this film was going to survive solely on the quality of the actor playing Lloyd. And it is through Lloyd that we are able to witness this world that could today be easily seen as a cliche but instead it is translated into an original(okay that might be a bit of a stretch) story that breaks tradition and instead might just surprise you with how true to life these characters are portrayed. Teens have sex, drink, but they also are good people in there too and are just caricatures. The one thing I always say about this film is that it is for me the first last and best romance movie ever made. And with so few exceptions(that I can count on one hand) there has never been a reason to make another romance movie(unless your a studio trying to make money).
68.Raiders of the Lost Ark(1981)
Director: Steven Spielberg
A classic adventure of Action, Romance, and Comedy. Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones is an American Icon that also happens to be a really well done film. With great directing as was the pattern(before Spielberg slipped into his disturbing trend in the 90's/2000's) and pretty good writing on the part of George Lucas before he became the CGI hack you are taken on a ride that keeps up and who doesn't love some Nazi killing goodness?
67.Star Trek(2009)
Director: J.J. Abrams
Now I know I am going to take some flak for putting this up so high on this list(or at all) but hear me out. More than any other film in the Star Trek franchise, this film managed to take elements of science fiction and made them both interesting and unique(and not just geek porn shots of the Enterprise, I'm looking at you Motion Picture). And you would think with a film so heavily entrenched in mythology and time travel that it would be completely inaccessible to non fans, especially people who don't know a thing about The Original Series except that it had Spock in it(I'm serious, there is a large percent of people who don't know who Captain Kirk is) and they managed to introduce an incredible amount of characters who will become name brands again. The movie is not perfect, there is a chunk of material involving Nero that just isn't up to the standard of the rest of the film, but you have performances from Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, John Cho, Karl Urban(!!!), and of course, Leonard Nemoy, that just knock this film out of the park for being one the greatest science fiction films out there. And if you are a fan(unless you are a purist) you too are going to be entertained proving that you can appeal to both the fan boy and the casual viewer without bending the franchise over the counter and having your way with it.
66.In Bruges(2008)
Director: Martin McDonagh
Oh man is this movie messed up. There are so many lines crossed in this film. And it is those very line crossings that make this film such a great dark comedy. And with great acting from Colin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes you really get a sense that these are hit men who are written. But they are written to entertain(which they do) and really is going to defy your expectations. The real reason this film works is because it throws up concepts like being politically correct and instead goes for the more extreme, but it is a logical extreme that improves the film as a whole.
65.Aliens(1986)
Director: James Cameron
The horror/action movie that has been described to be as the best in both genres. The film is good, taking all of the concepts in the original Alien and toning them differently so that they work and function more to the strengths of James Cameron's strengths. But keep in mind that the directors cut adds about 20 minutes of padding to the film. It doesn't necessarily fair better or worse than the original, it simply enhances your viewing experience.
64.Ghostbusters(1984)
Director: Ivan Reitman
This is a film much like several others that has been hyped up to no end. And it meets those expectations created by such hype.
63.Casino Royale(Bond)(2006)
Director: Martin Campbell
This, I feel, is the only bond film where I don't feel like I'm watching a dumb action movie. Instead I feel like it grounds bond down and you the viewer feel more like you are watching a character than this stereotyped James Bond persona.
62.Maltese Falcon(1941)
Director: John Huston
One of the best noir films, Bogart is going to have you believing you might just get wacked at any moment. This is one of the best adaptations of a literary work. Period.
61.Toy Story 2(1999)
Director: John Lasseter & Ash Brannon
It takes what the original did, and expands the scope of it. a continuation of what had come before without weakening the resolve or power of the original. Don't believe me? For a limited time only(as of the time of this being written in the fall of 2009) a double feature is being released of Part one and Two and you can see for yourself that Toy Story 2 did for Toy Story what Godfather Part two did for Godfather.
Director: Curtis Hanson
This is a well written, well executed, and well acted film. I have a few issues here and there with the direction, but there are alot of moments in the film that simply will blow you away. This is one of the film where I feel like Guy Pierce is one of our most underused actors of our generation and could use more exposure.
I can not mention this film without mentioning Kevin Spacey. He sells this movie for me. Without Kevin Spacey this film might not be on this list, his acting is top notch, and I'd almost argue it's his best performance he's given. Kim Baisinger is pretty spectacular in the film as well.
69.Say Anything(1989)
Director: Cameron Crowe
This is the be all end all of romance movies. No it's not a "chick flick". There are a number of negative conotations associated with "chick flick" that this film shouldn't be grouped in with. It does follow the age old basic romance movie formula, Girl meets boy. boy falls in love with girl. Boy gets girl. Boy loses girl. Boy wins girl back. But there are also some interesting sub plots along with a fantastic character played by John Cussack. One of things that I believe Cameron Crowe knew was that this film was going to survive solely on the quality of the actor playing Lloyd. And it is through Lloyd that we are able to witness this world that could today be easily seen as a cliche but instead it is translated into an original(okay that might be a bit of a stretch) story that breaks tradition and instead might just surprise you with how true to life these characters are portrayed. Teens have sex, drink, but they also are good people in there too and are just caricatures. The one thing I always say about this film is that it is for me the first last and best romance movie ever made. And with so few exceptions(that I can count on one hand) there has never been a reason to make another romance movie(unless your a studio trying to make money).
68.Raiders of the Lost Ark(1981)
Director: Steven Spielberg
A classic adventure of Action, Romance, and Comedy. Harrison Ford's Indiana Jones is an American Icon that also happens to be a really well done film. With great directing as was the pattern(before Spielberg slipped into his disturbing trend in the 90's/2000's) and pretty good writing on the part of George Lucas before he became the CGI hack you are taken on a ride that keeps up and who doesn't love some Nazi killing goodness?
67.Star Trek(2009)
Director: J.J. Abrams
Now I know I am going to take some flak for putting this up so high on this list(or at all) but hear me out. More than any other film in the Star Trek franchise, this film managed to take elements of science fiction and made them both interesting and unique(and not just geek porn shots of the Enterprise, I'm looking at you Motion Picture). And you would think with a film so heavily entrenched in mythology and time travel that it would be completely inaccessible to non fans, especially people who don't know a thing about The Original Series except that it had Spock in it(I'm serious, there is a large percent of people who don't know who Captain Kirk is) and they managed to introduce an incredible amount of characters who will become name brands again. The movie is not perfect, there is a chunk of material involving Nero that just isn't up to the standard of the rest of the film, but you have performances from Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, John Cho, Karl Urban(!!!), and of course, Leonard Nemoy, that just knock this film out of the park for being one the greatest science fiction films out there. And if you are a fan(unless you are a purist) you too are going to be entertained proving that you can appeal to both the fan boy and the casual viewer without bending the franchise over the counter and having your way with it.
66.In Bruges(2008)
Director: Martin McDonagh
Oh man is this movie messed up. There are so many lines crossed in this film. And it is those very line crossings that make this film such a great dark comedy. And with great acting from Colin Farrell and Ralph Fiennes you really get a sense that these are hit men who are written. But they are written to entertain(which they do) and really is going to defy your expectations. The real reason this film works is because it throws up concepts like being politically correct and instead goes for the more extreme, but it is a logical extreme that improves the film as a whole.
65.Aliens(1986)
Director: James Cameron
The horror/action movie that has been described to be as the best in both genres. The film is good, taking all of the concepts in the original Alien and toning them differently so that they work and function more to the strengths of James Cameron's strengths. But keep in mind that the directors cut adds about 20 minutes of padding to the film. It doesn't necessarily fair better or worse than the original, it simply enhances your viewing experience.
64.Ghostbusters(1984)
Director: Ivan Reitman
This is a film much like several others that has been hyped up to no end. And it meets those expectations created by such hype.
63.Casino Royale(Bond)(2006)
Director: Martin Campbell
This, I feel, is the only bond film where I don't feel like I'm watching a dumb action movie. Instead I feel like it grounds bond down and you the viewer feel more like you are watching a character than this stereotyped James Bond persona.
62.Maltese Falcon(1941)
Director: John Huston
One of the best noir films, Bogart is going to have you believing you might just get wacked at any moment. This is one of the best adaptations of a literary work. Period.
61.Toy Story 2(1999)
Director: John Lasseter & Ash Brannon
It takes what the original did, and expands the scope of it. a continuation of what had come before without weakening the resolve or power of the original. Don't believe me? For a limited time only(as of the time of this being written in the fall of 2009) a double feature is being released of Part one and Two and you can see for yourself that Toy Story 2 did for Toy Story what Godfather Part two did for Godfather.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
The top 11 songs of 2004
This is the top 11 songs of 2004
11.Disney land by five for fighting
10.Sometimes you can't make it on your own by U2
9.All these things that I've done by The killers
See who I am by within temptation
8.Forget it by Breaking Benjamin
7.The Longest day by Full blown rose
6.Hurt by Nine inch nails
5.I don't want to know by New found glory
4.Almost by Bowling for soup
3.Broken by Seether
2.Picture perfect by Tyler Hilton
1. Polaris by Jimmy Eat World
Heres the list of songs that didn't make the cut but were considered:
The 12th day by Autopilot Off
The Geeks Get the girls by American Hi fi
Make a sound by Autopilot Off
1985 by Bowling for soup
Down for the count by bowling for soup
Somebody get my mom by bowling for soup
Rain by Breaking Benjamin
With arms wide open by Creed
Everybody's fool by Evenesence
My imortal by evenescence
My Opinion by the exies
Dear enemy by the exies
Angels and girlfriends by Five for fighting
Take me out by Franz Ferdinand
It's good to be in love by frou frou
Chariot by Gavin Degraw
I don't want to be by Gavin Degraw
The Chronicles of life and death by Good Charlotte
I just wanna live by Good Charlotte
Futures by Jimmy eat world
Kill by Jimmy eat world
Just tonight by Jimmy Eat World
Leave (get out) by Jojo
Mr. Brightside by The killers
Points of Authority/99 problems/one step closer by Jay-Z and liknin park
burn Burn by lost prophets
Blow me away by Breaking Benjamin
Float on by Modest Mouse
Untitled hidden track(sex drugs and rock and roll) by Saliva
Survival of the Sickest by Saliva
One by Simple plan
In time by marc collie
Vindicated by Dashboard confessional
Gifts and curses by yellowcard
Vertigo by U2
11.Disney land by five for fighting
10.Sometimes you can't make it on your own by U2
9.All these things that I've done by The killers
See who I am by within temptation
8.Forget it by Breaking Benjamin
7.The Longest day by Full blown rose
6.Hurt by Nine inch nails
5.I don't want to know by New found glory
4.Almost by Bowling for soup
3.Broken by Seether
2.Picture perfect by Tyler Hilton
1. Polaris by Jimmy Eat World
Heres the list of songs that didn't make the cut but were considered:
The 12th day by Autopilot Off
The Geeks Get the girls by American Hi fi
Make a sound by Autopilot Off
1985 by Bowling for soup
Down for the count by bowling for soup
Somebody get my mom by bowling for soup
Rain by Breaking Benjamin
With arms wide open by Creed
Everybody's fool by Evenesence
My imortal by evenescence
My Opinion by the exies
Dear enemy by the exies
Angels and girlfriends by Five for fighting
Take me out by Franz Ferdinand
It's good to be in love by frou frou
Chariot by Gavin Degraw
I don't want to be by Gavin Degraw
The Chronicles of life and death by Good Charlotte
I just wanna live by Good Charlotte
Futures by Jimmy eat world
Kill by Jimmy eat world
Just tonight by Jimmy Eat World
Leave (get out) by Jojo
Mr. Brightside by The killers
Points of Authority/99 problems/one step closer by Jay-Z and liknin park
burn Burn by lost prophets
Blow me away by Breaking Benjamin
Float on by Modest Mouse
Untitled hidden track(sex drugs and rock and roll) by Saliva
Survival of the Sickest by Saliva
One by Simple plan
In time by marc collie
Vindicated by Dashboard confessional
Gifts and curses by yellowcard
Vertigo by U2
Friday, October 2, 2009
Just another quick update
Quick update, I have the rest of the top 100 list scheduled. it is set. It is in Blog spot. It will be automatically posting on monday/wens/fri starting monday for another 1-2 weeks. at about 5 pm pacific.
I may post stuff between then, we shall see. it depends on if I find something I feel needs to be reviewed.
Also if you read the site, enjoy it, want more, hit the follow button up at the top.
I may post stuff between then, we shall see. it depends on if I find something I feel needs to be reviewed.
Also if you read the site, enjoy it, want more, hit the follow button up at the top.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 3
So this is going to be a list of the top 100 films in my opinion. Periodically I'll update it because other than slots 1-10, which I put an incredible amount of time and effort into devising, it is roles of 11-100 which I have more trouble with. So I'm going to start at the bottom of the list and work my way up for the next ten days, giving an idea of the films that I have enjoyed and found to be successful.
80.Juno(2007)
This is a really good movie. It's funny(even if some of it's jokes are incorrect) and its got actual heart to it. It's quite the feat.
79.Terminator 2:Judgement Day(1991)
One of the greatest action films of all time. So awesome that it made the next two movies suck because it was so good.
78. Repo:The Genetic Opera(2008)
Second best musical of the last year. True Story.
77.Gladiator(2000)
Russel Crowe. Ridley Scott. Win.
76.Spirited Away(2001)
a Miyazaki great. This film will confuse you enough where you are forced to think about it and explore it.
75.Equilibrium(2002)
I like it. So sue me.
74.Double Indemnity(1944)
Fantastic noir movie. Compelling and well acted. This is going to send you into a downward spiral of awesome.
73.Hercules(1997)
This is one of those great disney movies that brutally masacres the truth. But its well voiced and the animation and story are worth your time.
72.Cars(2006)
Director: John Lasseter & Joe Ranft
This is one of those pixar movies that you either loved it or thought it wasn't that great. It certainly has a formula, but there is a huge amount of heart and soul to this and Paul Newman knocks it out of the part.
71.The Signal(2007)
Director: Jacob Gentry & Dan Bush & David Bruckner
This movie is broken into three segments. They have a sick, dark style humor, they are scary, but overall this is a fantastic horror movie.
80.Juno(2007)
This is a really good movie. It's funny(even if some of it's jokes are incorrect) and its got actual heart to it. It's quite the feat.
79.Terminator 2:Judgement Day(1991)
One of the greatest action films of all time. So awesome that it made the next two movies suck because it was so good.
78. Repo:The Genetic Opera(2008)
Second best musical of the last year. True Story.
77.Gladiator(2000)
Russel Crowe. Ridley Scott. Win.
76.Spirited Away(2001)
a Miyazaki great. This film will confuse you enough where you are forced to think about it and explore it.
75.Equilibrium(2002)
I like it. So sue me.
74.Double Indemnity(1944)
Fantastic noir movie. Compelling and well acted. This is going to send you into a downward spiral of awesome.
73.Hercules(1997)
This is one of those great disney movies that brutally masacres the truth. But its well voiced and the animation and story are worth your time.
72.Cars(2006)
Director: John Lasseter & Joe Ranft
This is one of those pixar movies that you either loved it or thought it wasn't that great. It certainly has a formula, but there is a huge amount of heart and soul to this and Paul Newman knocks it out of the part.
71.The Signal(2007)
Director: Jacob Gentry & Dan Bush & David Bruckner
This movie is broken into three segments. They have a sick, dark style humor, they are scary, but overall this is a fantastic horror movie.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 2
So this is going to be a list of the top 100 films in my opinion. Periodically I'll update it because other than slots 1-10, which I put an incredible amount of time and effort into devising, it is roles of 11-100 which I have more trouble with. So I'm going to start at the bottom of the list and work my way up for the next ten days, giving an idea of the films that I have enjoyed and found to be successful.
Number 90 Halloween(1978)
This is one of the all time best horror films. Carpenter did things in this film that were so original and out there, but so effective for how cheap the movie was that he created magic. This is the kind of Magic that only low budget movies can create. it is this great master piece that would set the stage for slasher films to come. And for note, it manages to be a slasher film while seriously toning down the graphic violence and sex. Its mostly implied. And along with the score it creates far more tension that these horrible slasher films of today.
Number 89 First Blood(1982)
Most of you might not know what this film is, it is that first, visceral film in the Rambo series. While not nearly as strong as Sly's other franchise, Rocky, this movie manages tackle themes and thoughts that would otherwise be ignored outside of panned films such as StopLoss. On top of that its a good movie wouldn't you know it?
Number88 Pirates of the Caribbean(2003)
Johnny Depps break out, international sucsess is what sells this movie. Yeah sure Keira's not bad and a number of the supporting chracters do a good job selling the world. This is the movie before they wanted to take the franchise into Fantasy land and instead it follows a pretty simple ghost pirate story that would even baffle scooby doo.
Number 87 Dead Poet's Society(1989)
This is one of those inspirational coming of age movies that actually manages to click with it's audience. and while it isn't nearly as high art as it would like to pretend it is, the film does a good job keeping you entertained and wanting to come back to revisit these wonderful characters.
Number 86 Spider-Man 2(2004)
Until Spider-man 2, many comic fans looked at the genre of comic book movies as nothing more than cheap knock offs of the stories they loved and treasured that couldn't stand up and tell their own story. But then Spider-man peeled its way in with its sympathetic villains, its horror inspired scenes, and its epic promise of Love, Action, and Shocking twists. Plus the movie is a great deal of fun.
Number 85 Alien(1979)
This is what I like to refer to as the birth of the modern creature feature. It is a dirty, violent, gore filled opera of space that represents that other part of the horror scale that Halloween didn't give you. But it also started a movement that would be continued and preserved for years to come, the strong female badass, and for that I salute you Alien.
Number 84 The Rocky Horror Picture Show(live)
I know I know, the movie it self is pretty horrible. And they really need to get a dvd out there with fan commentaries that can at least try and emulate the experience of watching the show live. If you have a chance, this is a great comedy to see but don't see it unless you have a group of people about 60 percent rewatchers, and 40 percent newbies.
Number 83 There will be blood(2007)
Oh, what a great, long, drawn out character study of what should have been a despicable character and yet he is compelling to constantly want to know where his character is going. Day-Lewis is brilliant in the role and that earns it a place in my heart.
Number 82 The Graduate(1967)
It isn't too often that I feel a comedy manages to age well. Far too often I feel like I'm being pushed and pulled but never really have that chance to laugh. And if I do laugh it's because the story feels dated. The true kind of comedy classic should be timeless. At the same time, this is a movie out to say something. Because it is also a drama. You feel uncomfortable about the relations that occur in the story and you get invested in the characters, and while sure its a great story point to end on, you want to see more because not much gets tied up. The film is fairly bleak and it is this bleak comedy styling that we are missing now a days and can maybe one day re approach.
Number 81 Nightmare Alley(19XX)
I couldn't find the right year for this film. And yeah its a sad exscuse for an adaptation, but the story it commits to is a great one and on its own it manages to stand up and prove itself to be one of those classic noir pieces that deserves to be remembered.
keep in mind this is a list of Opinion, and merely a suggestion list. If you need a film to see, look to my list. You are likely to find something great that could very likely change your world.
Number 90 Halloween(1978)
This is one of the all time best horror films. Carpenter did things in this film that were so original and out there, but so effective for how cheap the movie was that he created magic. This is the kind of Magic that only low budget movies can create. it is this great master piece that would set the stage for slasher films to come. And for note, it manages to be a slasher film while seriously toning down the graphic violence and sex. Its mostly implied. And along with the score it creates far more tension that these horrible slasher films of today.
Number 89 First Blood(1982)
Most of you might not know what this film is, it is that first, visceral film in the Rambo series. While not nearly as strong as Sly's other franchise, Rocky, this movie manages tackle themes and thoughts that would otherwise be ignored outside of panned films such as StopLoss. On top of that its a good movie wouldn't you know it?
Number88 Pirates of the Caribbean(2003)
Johnny Depps break out, international sucsess is what sells this movie. Yeah sure Keira's not bad and a number of the supporting chracters do a good job selling the world. This is the movie before they wanted to take the franchise into Fantasy land and instead it follows a pretty simple ghost pirate story that would even baffle scooby doo.
Number 87 Dead Poet's Society(1989)
This is one of those inspirational coming of age movies that actually manages to click with it's audience. and while it isn't nearly as high art as it would like to pretend it is, the film does a good job keeping you entertained and wanting to come back to revisit these wonderful characters.
Number 86 Spider-Man 2(2004)
Until Spider-man 2, many comic fans looked at the genre of comic book movies as nothing more than cheap knock offs of the stories they loved and treasured that couldn't stand up and tell their own story. But then Spider-man peeled its way in with its sympathetic villains, its horror inspired scenes, and its epic promise of Love, Action, and Shocking twists. Plus the movie is a great deal of fun.
Number 85 Alien(1979)
This is what I like to refer to as the birth of the modern creature feature. It is a dirty, violent, gore filled opera of space that represents that other part of the horror scale that Halloween didn't give you. But it also started a movement that would be continued and preserved for years to come, the strong female badass, and for that I salute you Alien.
Number 84 The Rocky Horror Picture Show(live)
I know I know, the movie it self is pretty horrible. And they really need to get a dvd out there with fan commentaries that can at least try and emulate the experience of watching the show live. If you have a chance, this is a great comedy to see but don't see it unless you have a group of people about 60 percent rewatchers, and 40 percent newbies.
Number 83 There will be blood(2007)
Oh, what a great, long, drawn out character study of what should have been a despicable character and yet he is compelling to constantly want to know where his character is going. Day-Lewis is brilliant in the role and that earns it a place in my heart.
Number 82 The Graduate(1967)
It isn't too often that I feel a comedy manages to age well. Far too often I feel like I'm being pushed and pulled but never really have that chance to laugh. And if I do laugh it's because the story feels dated. The true kind of comedy classic should be timeless. At the same time, this is a movie out to say something. Because it is also a drama. You feel uncomfortable about the relations that occur in the story and you get invested in the characters, and while sure its a great story point to end on, you want to see more because not much gets tied up. The film is fairly bleak and it is this bleak comedy styling that we are missing now a days and can maybe one day re approach.
Number 81 Nightmare Alley(19XX)
I couldn't find the right year for this film. And yeah its a sad exscuse for an adaptation, but the story it commits to is a great one and on its own it manages to stand up and prove itself to be one of those classic noir pieces that deserves to be remembered.
keep in mind this is a list of Opinion, and merely a suggestion list. If you need a film to see, look to my list. You are likely to find something great that could very likely change your world.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
The top 100 films(Fall 2009 edition) - Part 1
So this is going to be a list of the top 100 films in my opinion. Periodically I'll update it because other than slots 1-10, which I put an incredible amount of time and effort into devising, it is roles of 11-100 which I have more trouble with. So I'm going to start at the bottom of the list and work my way up for the next ten days, giving an idea of the films that I have enjoyed and found to be successful.
Number 101: District 9
I'm including this because anyone who read my review of District 9 knows that I was head overheels for this film when I initially watched it, and while yes, I love it just as much, it finally settle as being just under Up and Drag Me to Hell, which are both instant classics of a lifetime.
Number 100: The Crow(1994)
Now I initially saw this film because a friend had mentioned it to me way back int he 1995's and told me about the story behind the film. But up until maybe a year ago, I hadn't had a chance to watch it. It's not because I didn't want to watch it, I simply didn't have access to the film. But now that I've seen it, and read the graphic novel it is based on, I find myself really enjoying it. I consider it in the same Gothic Genre as many of Tim Burton's works and in generally you are going to find that yeah there are a few logic points to be made, and some of it does need some polishing. but the fact that it's lead died 90 percent through the films filming and they were still able to piece together a cohesive film is quite the feat. There is a certain bit of eeriness to the film that might not exist without Brandon Lee's death or the haunting knowledge of how similar it was to his father's death. I honestly consider it a more Tragic accident than Heath Ledger's death for this haunting parallels of the world. No the story does not fit into the real world mechanics of our lives, but it doesn't need to, as many films on this list will prove.
99. Wanted(2008)
I went into this film not having even heard of the graphic novel, having only seen a teaser which boasted a cast(Morgan Freeman, James Macavoy, and Angilina Jolie) that had me impressed enough to go see this opening day. This movie is like a looney toons action movie. It is brutal, graphic, over the top, and has every bit of fun that Kung Fu hustle has(a film that I consider similar, but ultimately I found this story more enriching for my taste). Now, unlike everyone else that I know, I didn't find the story predictable. I found it a bit on the exaggerated side. And ultimately that gave it an Edge that I wasn't familiar with. This, like many other films on this list, isn't flawless(the loom of fate comes to mind) but this is my list damn it, and I enjoy these films. Also its action exceeds that of any of our recent resurrection sequels(I.E. Live Free or Die Hard, Indy 4, SW prequel trilogy).
Number 98. Pulp Fiction(1994)
This is one of those films that I shouldn't need to justify why it is on this list. Great Cast, great direction, great story. I'll take one Tarentino Masterpiece and a Royale with cheese to go.
Number 97. To Kill a Mocking Bird
Now many many hardcore fans of the novel will look down upon this movie, but it is Gregory Pecks performance that really grinds this movie into a place of great power. Plus I love the portrayal of Boo Radley. He acts, sounds, and is exactly as he would in this world. The only complaint I have is that the film feels more like a documentary of these events rather than this tragic story told through the eyes of a child.
Number 96. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban(2004)
Of all the films, I felt this was the best adaptation and Film. It tackles some pretty heavy themes and ideologies but isn't heavy handed about them, instead it is able to offer them to you in a manner that keeps both kids and adults entertained. Plus the film feels so much more grim than the other films as well as introducing the best thing that ever happened to Harry Potter, Gary Oldman's Sirius Black.
Number 95. Howl's Moving Castle(2004)
This was one of those magical mystery tours that Mister Miyazaki takes you on that reminds you just why we need 2D animation in the world. The film earns additional props because of it's use of good American voice casting that actually convey what the original Japaneses were able to attempt. It's quite impressive and works very efficiently for the audience. Some might consider it one of Miyazaki's weakest, but I feel more heart in this film than I do in alot of his films.
Number 94. Gold Finger(Bond) (1964)
One of the earliest Bond films, and often considered the highlight of the series. It boasts amazing performances from its stars, and set the bar for villian tropes for years to come.
number 93. Wizard of Oz(1939)
A classic visual feast that takes some great cast members and delivers a classic Campbell's Hero story that resonates with kids today as well as over 70 years ago.
Number 92. Schindler's list
Another story that will resonate with adults and kids who can pay attention. This story is haunting, and a dream like quality to it helps delude you from constantly remembering that this was a horrific time in our HISTORY and to persuade you that this is just a story. But it was constructed from true events and forms an epically tragic tale that would cement Liam Neisen as one our great actors this generation.
Number 91. Pitch Black
I know what your thinking. What the fuck is Pitch black doing ahead of Schindler's list. And it all comes down to this. I can watch Pitch Black Annually and not want to just hate the world. Instead you are offered a Anti-Hero, who is a villain forced to play nice and fight against a greater threat. The first 30-40 minutes of this movie is the Crew vs Riddick. Its not until the lights go down that Riddick is forced to change sides. This isn't a hero/Villain like Long John Silver, Riddick is a true Foe and he proves it every step of the way. and that is just how I like my horror heroes.
So there you have it, 100-91.
Tommarow you get 90-81.
Peace out yo
Number 101: District 9
I'm including this because anyone who read my review of District 9 knows that I was head overheels for this film when I initially watched it, and while yes, I love it just as much, it finally settle as being just under Up and Drag Me to Hell, which are both instant classics of a lifetime.
Number 100: The Crow(1994)
Now I initially saw this film because a friend had mentioned it to me way back int he 1995's and told me about the story behind the film. But up until maybe a year ago, I hadn't had a chance to watch it. It's not because I didn't want to watch it, I simply didn't have access to the film. But now that I've seen it, and read the graphic novel it is based on, I find myself really enjoying it. I consider it in the same Gothic Genre as many of Tim Burton's works and in generally you are going to find that yeah there are a few logic points to be made, and some of it does need some polishing. but the fact that it's lead died 90 percent through the films filming and they were still able to piece together a cohesive film is quite the feat. There is a certain bit of eeriness to the film that might not exist without Brandon Lee's death or the haunting knowledge of how similar it was to his father's death. I honestly consider it a more Tragic accident than Heath Ledger's death for this haunting parallels of the world. No the story does not fit into the real world mechanics of our lives, but it doesn't need to, as many films on this list will prove.
99. Wanted(2008)
I went into this film not having even heard of the graphic novel, having only seen a teaser which boasted a cast(Morgan Freeman, James Macavoy, and Angilina Jolie) that had me impressed enough to go see this opening day. This movie is like a looney toons action movie. It is brutal, graphic, over the top, and has every bit of fun that Kung Fu hustle has(a film that I consider similar, but ultimately I found this story more enriching for my taste). Now, unlike everyone else that I know, I didn't find the story predictable. I found it a bit on the exaggerated side. And ultimately that gave it an Edge that I wasn't familiar with. This, like many other films on this list, isn't flawless(the loom of fate comes to mind) but this is my list damn it, and I enjoy these films. Also its action exceeds that of any of our recent resurrection sequels(I.E. Live Free or Die Hard, Indy 4, SW prequel trilogy).
Number 98. Pulp Fiction(1994)
This is one of those films that I shouldn't need to justify why it is on this list. Great Cast, great direction, great story. I'll take one Tarentino Masterpiece and a Royale with cheese to go.
Number 97. To Kill a Mocking Bird
Now many many hardcore fans of the novel will look down upon this movie, but it is Gregory Pecks performance that really grinds this movie into a place of great power. Plus I love the portrayal of Boo Radley. He acts, sounds, and is exactly as he would in this world. The only complaint I have is that the film feels more like a documentary of these events rather than this tragic story told through the eyes of a child.
Number 96. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban(2004)
Of all the films, I felt this was the best adaptation and Film. It tackles some pretty heavy themes and ideologies but isn't heavy handed about them, instead it is able to offer them to you in a manner that keeps both kids and adults entertained. Plus the film feels so much more grim than the other films as well as introducing the best thing that ever happened to Harry Potter, Gary Oldman's Sirius Black.
Number 95. Howl's Moving Castle(2004)
This was one of those magical mystery tours that Mister Miyazaki takes you on that reminds you just why we need 2D animation in the world. The film earns additional props because of it's use of good American voice casting that actually convey what the original Japaneses were able to attempt. It's quite impressive and works very efficiently for the audience. Some might consider it one of Miyazaki's weakest, but I feel more heart in this film than I do in alot of his films.
Number 94. Gold Finger(Bond) (1964)
One of the earliest Bond films, and often considered the highlight of the series. It boasts amazing performances from its stars, and set the bar for villian tropes for years to come.
number 93. Wizard of Oz(1939)
A classic visual feast that takes some great cast members and delivers a classic Campbell's Hero story that resonates with kids today as well as over 70 years ago.
Number 92. Schindler's list
Another story that will resonate with adults and kids who can pay attention. This story is haunting, and a dream like quality to it helps delude you from constantly remembering that this was a horrific time in our HISTORY and to persuade you that this is just a story. But it was constructed from true events and forms an epically tragic tale that would cement Liam Neisen as one our great actors this generation.
Number 91. Pitch Black
I know what your thinking. What the fuck is Pitch black doing ahead of Schindler's list. And it all comes down to this. I can watch Pitch Black Annually and not want to just hate the world. Instead you are offered a Anti-Hero, who is a villain forced to play nice and fight against a greater threat. The first 30-40 minutes of this movie is the Crew vs Riddick. Its not until the lights go down that Riddick is forced to change sides. This isn't a hero/Villain like Long John Silver, Riddick is a true Foe and he proves it every step of the way. and that is just how I like my horror heroes.
So there you have it, 100-91.
Tommarow you get 90-81.
Peace out yo
Monday, September 21, 2009
The Quantum Problem Part 2
Just quick point, MTG has been around 16 years(17 depending on the persons facts). Legend of the Five rings, a slightly smaller, lesser known, card game has been around just as long(by a few months) and has survived this long without chase cards. Yes there are rares and uncommons that are harder to get than others, and durring kotei season prices jump astronomicly, but there hasn't ever been a chase rarity. and In fact you will typically get at least one copy of a chase rare in a box. Now granted they are non unique, but you can also get more than one depending on case distribution.
Also GW has never been collectable. I can walk into a gw store(and shoot myself in the foot to distract me from being in a GW store) or walk into into normal game store that carries GW and typcally buy the figures I need. And if they don't have the figures I need in, I can usually order them.
I think the next two longest are the yugioh card game and the Pokemon card game.
I think that every player is on some level a collector, as was pointed out. If you aren't a completist then you are a factionist. and while you may not feel the need to complete your faction, you do feel compelled to aquire the models that will improve your army, or offer you the option to build a different army. And this fact is GREAT. it lets me tempt non players into the game with the prospect of being able to aquire most everything they need for a given faction for somewhere in the range of 30-40 dollars(especially Now. THANKS TeamCovenant) And as such I can increase player base. Hell, I initially got into this game a few months ago using some extra money I had and managed to pick up 15 units, 2 monsters for 40 dollars. That is the single cheapest mini's game I've ever bought into.
Monpoc does offer a reason to collect an entire set, it calls itself a collectable Miniatures game. That makes it inherent to inspire some people into getting all of them. Sure cross faction isn't a part of the game, but PP does try hard to get you to be interested in more than one faction. I offer the agenda wheel as a point for this. I was playing Planet Eaters. But Now has caused me to be playing the Destroyers Agenda. That was very tricksy of you PP. Very tricksy indeed.
I just want to say the guy who said, and I'm paraphrasing, that your store isn't good enough if it isn't getting QKK, you sir are wrong. America is in a recession(the actual numbers regarding this are up to debate else where, but at the very least everyone is in that mindset) and because of this game stores don't just buy overstock hoping to get rid of it. They buy what is necessary in order to hopefully keep interest but not more than they need.
PP's incentive works two fold, one is to reward those who would have already bought 6 of the Mega kits, but the other is to inspire those to buy 6 mega kits to get the added bonus to draw more players in. The problem is then that the players don't have the money to support buying that much. some do, but I get the impression the average player can not, and this goes to whoever pointed out that this game caters to the factions. I think the average player, at the very least, would like to be able to complete their faction, and therefore is likely to try and complete said collection over their course of the game. So since the players can't afford it, the stores can't justify buying the cases, and now the store doesn't have the QKK. This isn't a fault of either the consumer or their store. And I think PP would like it to be available to everyone, despite what you think sir. The idea is to inspire more stores to buy more cases so that they can distribute more of the figure.
On a personal note, In most situations I've noticed that the Mega is Distinctly better than it's ultra or at the very least completely on par with its ultra.
Also GW has never been collectable. I can walk into a gw store(and shoot myself in the foot to distract me from being in a GW store) or walk into into normal game store that carries GW and typcally buy the figures I need. And if they don't have the figures I need in, I can usually order them.
I think the next two longest are the yugioh card game and the Pokemon card game.
I think that every player is on some level a collector, as was pointed out. If you aren't a completist then you are a factionist. and while you may not feel the need to complete your faction, you do feel compelled to aquire the models that will improve your army, or offer you the option to build a different army. And this fact is GREAT. it lets me tempt non players into the game with the prospect of being able to aquire most everything they need for a given faction for somewhere in the range of 30-40 dollars(especially Now. THANKS TeamCovenant) And as such I can increase player base. Hell, I initially got into this game a few months ago using some extra money I had and managed to pick up 15 units, 2 monsters for 40 dollars. That is the single cheapest mini's game I've ever bought into.
Monpoc does offer a reason to collect an entire set, it calls itself a collectable Miniatures game. That makes it inherent to inspire some people into getting all of them. Sure cross faction isn't a part of the game, but PP does try hard to get you to be interested in more than one faction. I offer the agenda wheel as a point for this. I was playing Planet Eaters. But Now has caused me to be playing the Destroyers Agenda. That was very tricksy of you PP. Very tricksy indeed.
I just want to say the guy who said, and I'm paraphrasing, that your store isn't good enough if it isn't getting QKK, you sir are wrong. America is in a recession(the actual numbers regarding this are up to debate else where, but at the very least everyone is in that mindset) and because of this game stores don't just buy overstock hoping to get rid of it. They buy what is necessary in order to hopefully keep interest but not more than they need.
PP's incentive works two fold, one is to reward those who would have already bought 6 of the Mega kits, but the other is to inspire those to buy 6 mega kits to get the added bonus to draw more players in. The problem is then that the players don't have the money to support buying that much. some do, but I get the impression the average player can not, and this goes to whoever pointed out that this game caters to the factions. I think the average player, at the very least, would like to be able to complete their faction, and therefore is likely to try and complete said collection over their course of the game. So since the players can't afford it, the stores can't justify buying the cases, and now the store doesn't have the QKK. This isn't a fault of either the consumer or their store. And I think PP would like it to be available to everyone, despite what you think sir. The idea is to inspire more stores to buy more cases so that they can distribute more of the figure.
On a personal note, In most situations I've noticed that the Mega is Distinctly better than it's ultra or at the very least completely on par with its ultra.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Outfoxed
This is an abridged review like the one for the Marvel Civil War Hardcover.
I just finished watching Outfoxed after a suggestion in a news article on Ain't it cool that talked about the Fox news networks blatant lie about the other news organizations.
The movie is effectively that news story for 80 minutes. Its on the low budget end of the me Political documentary that reveals an angle of a movie. all of the facts in the movie are true, and they do show footage to prove their point. It is interesting to see this topic being handled. But a few words of caution. It is working a Democrat/Liberal position. If this doesn't bother you, awesome. If it does, you still should know the information because it does give a good message which is skewed journalism needs to be stopped.
I just finished watching Outfoxed after a suggestion in a news article on Ain't it cool that talked about the Fox news networks blatant lie about the other news organizations.
The movie is effectively that news story for 80 minutes. Its on the low budget end of the me Political documentary that reveals an angle of a movie. all of the facts in the movie are true, and they do show footage to prove their point. It is interesting to see this topic being handled. But a few words of caution. It is working a Democrat/Liberal position. If this doesn't bother you, awesome. If it does, you still should know the information because it does give a good message which is skewed journalism needs to be stopped.
The Quantum Problem
The following is a majority excert(exercising the relation to the other board posters)
The problem is, you chase away the average joes who are kinda okay at this game, can't really afford to spend to much, who then Can't even compete with the average players because you've got what can't get.
A "chase" figure per case works best if you were doing it in case, but only as coupon or something because you could be getting the replacement hyper of the monster you bought the case for.
I think there is no solution to this problem that makes everyone happy. but anyone who thinks that status symbols or any hyper rare figure IMPROVES the community of the game is confused.
If anything is added to this game, it should increase players, not drive players away. From what I can tell, based on 4-5 different group areas across two states and two countries, this game needs to attract more players. Maybe not as much on the creator level(though I'm sure they'd appreciate it) but from the store level, I've seen many stores which other than ordering a case for you, the stores will carry at most a single case of stock.
Just out of curiosity, could people that post in this forum state whether their local store is getting a Quantum or not? I'd just like to be able to get a sampling of the area.( I personally am going to find out if the local store where I just moved is ordering any at all).
I think a lot of this topic is pure conjecture and opinion based, which is all well and good but it all sums up like this
you think either
A) Quantum's are good (see 1-)
or
B) Quantum's are Bad (see a-)
1) They make the collecting game more fun with the collecting part.
2) they allow certain players to have what other players do not
a) They detract from the available pool of monsters/create monsters that COULD tear through the tournament scene for a select few players
b)they emphasize collecting over play skill
c)they make it harder to complete a collection.
I think neither good nor bad, simply that they need to be more available than they are. Now its seems to me that some collectors disagree with this and it some how devalues the work they have done. Tournament players disagree with this because THEY think it devalues the work they have done. Casual players agree with this because they likely don't have access to these rare figures.
So I offer up the counter point that this game needs to be more clearly defined. Is it a collectible or is a miniatures game. Because those on the collectors side are going to think one way, and those on the miniatures side will think another way. I rest of the mini side. I think this is a game first and a collecting opportunity second.
Is there a solution that would make both sides happy?
Would Alternate paint schemes(or even alternate sculpts) of the megas and quantum's(that are somehow easier to obtain, like this coupon idea, do this?
Based on what I have surmised it seems like it would. It would put more of the Megas/quantum's on the market and therefore allow more players to use them. It would be something new and unique, which would give cause for the collectors to obtain them(and if your argument is that as a collector you don't want to try an obtain others, do you support quantums?), and it could give you something new and pretty to be able to play with if you already have the mega/quantum(which in some situations is an improvement, because some of those megas paint schemes just do not work).
The problem is, you chase away the average joes who are kinda okay at this game, can't really afford to spend to much, who then Can't even compete with the average players because you've got what can't get.
A "chase" figure per case works best if you were doing it in case, but only as coupon or something because you could be getting the replacement hyper of the monster you bought the case for.
I think there is no solution to this problem that makes everyone happy. but anyone who thinks that status symbols or any hyper rare figure IMPROVES the community of the game is confused.
If anything is added to this game, it should increase players, not drive players away. From what I can tell, based on 4-5 different group areas across two states and two countries, this game needs to attract more players. Maybe not as much on the creator level(though I'm sure they'd appreciate it) but from the store level, I've seen many stores which other than ordering a case for you, the stores will carry at most a single case of stock.
Just out of curiosity, could people that post in this forum state whether their local store is getting a Quantum or not? I'd just like to be able to get a sampling of the area.( I personally am going to find out if the local store where I just moved is ordering any at all).
I think a lot of this topic is pure conjecture and opinion based, which is all well and good but it all sums up like this
you think either
A) Quantum's are good (see 1-)
or
B) Quantum's are Bad (see a-)
1) They make the collecting game more fun with the collecting part.
2) they allow certain players to have what other players do not
a) They detract from the available pool of monsters/create monsters that COULD tear through the tournament scene for a select few players
b)they emphasize collecting over play skill
c)they make it harder to complete a collection.
I think neither good nor bad, simply that they need to be more available than they are. Now its seems to me that some collectors disagree with this and it some how devalues the work they have done. Tournament players disagree with this because THEY think it devalues the work they have done. Casual players agree with this because they likely don't have access to these rare figures.
So I offer up the counter point that this game needs to be more clearly defined. Is it a collectible or is a miniatures game. Because those on the collectors side are going to think one way, and those on the miniatures side will think another way. I rest of the mini side. I think this is a game first and a collecting opportunity second.
Is there a solution that would make both sides happy?
Would Alternate paint schemes(or even alternate sculpts) of the megas and quantum's(that are somehow easier to obtain, like this coupon idea, do this?
Based on what I have surmised it seems like it would. It would put more of the Megas/quantum's on the market and therefore allow more players to use them. It would be something new and unique, which would give cause for the collectors to obtain them(and if your argument is that as a collector you don't want to try an obtain others, do you support quantums?), and it could give you something new and pretty to be able to play with if you already have the mega/quantum(which in some situations is an improvement, because some of those megas paint schemes just do not work).
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
PennyArcadeExpo
So, PAX(Penny Arcade Expo) was a lot of fun. If you were going, "Man, I wonder if I should have gone?", you should have gone. PAX is best when you have friends there, but you can easily make friends. That said, if you are one of those loner gamer types, PAX is not for you. Way too much of this convention is great with other people. The only part I would say is bad for groups is the expo hall. In the expo hall you should rummage by yourself unless your Loot hunting. But if you are going to run around and play some demos, do it by yourself and just get into talking with people in line because part of your experience is going to be have fun trying out games. I'll now going into a few of the demos I've played at pax.
No more Heroes 2: It seems like it's exactly the same as No More Heroes, so its up to your opinion of No more Heroes. I loved it, I'm excited for this game and think it will be fun.
Scriblenauts. MY GODDESS. This game is amazing. It has me ready to go out and buy a DS(money available assuming). Take that as you will.
Metroid Prime Trilogy: Do you own the originals? Have you played the originals? Yes? Then skip this. It's a video game double dip.
Lego Rock Band: Kinda awesome. The game is a easier version of the game(it's going to be RB's answer to Band Hero) so the song are also slightly more mainstream. But you have The Final Countdown and Kung Fu fighting. This is going to be the game you really want at a party. even if the graphics are silly.
Wow Expansion:Cataclysm. solves one of my issues with Wow, but it still is horrible. Skip it.
OLD REPUBLIC: later in this post I'll cover this.
Assassin's Creed II: Looks just like AC1, which got borring before we finished it, so unless they introduce something amazing that hasn't been revealed yet, I'm going to skip it.
H3:ODST: It's Halo. So it's not bad. Could be better, but at least you aren't fucking master chief this time, so have fun.
Fairytale Fights: I didn't have time to demo this, but it looks entertaining so it might be worth your time.
TMNT: Smash-Up/arcade attack: These two TMNT games are TMNT games and they are worth it at 10 bucks but if they are charging any more its worth your time.
WET: This game looks like a mix between Wanted and Lara Croft. Which isn't that bad, but I've seen it before but its not horrible.
Rouge Warrior: This was kind of interesting but this wasn't that great.
Doom 2 on XBL: Its doom fucking 2. It's fun. it's old school. Hard to go wrong with a classic.
Left 4 dead 2: Did you like Left 4 dead? they didn't fix too much up, it's basically the same game. A friend who is the hardcore beat everyone at the original loved it, so take that as you will.
GOW3: hey look, a reason to own a ps3. what? You don't own a ps3? Shame on you. But it's awesome.
Uncharted 2: I didn't play enough of it to make a call on this, but it feels like the first part of uncharated(the human stuff) and its pretty fun.
Marvel ultimate allience 2: Same as the first. Interesting story. It'll be fun.
I was going to give my blow by blow experience of the Old republic footage, but because seeing is believing, here it is: http://pax.gamespot.com/video/6216995/?tag=top_stories;title;3
If your big on the Miniatures scene, Monsterpocalypse was represented by Privateer Press. The new set set to come out in October we're previewed and yeah, the new monsters look sexy.
So there it is, I had fun at PAX mostly just hanging out with people and gaming. I know, sounds like an expensive weekend of gaming, but with the previews and things going on, it is well enjoyable.
Also, the keynote wasn't that great. He was no Ron Levine or Wil Wheton. But the Penny ARcade Q and A was fantastic.
Oh one last thing, at least one ass hole went to pax with swine flu and infected at least me and 5 of my friends and beyond that there were over 100 reported cases. So fuck you guy who went to pax with the flu. For those interested me and my friends have recovered and have returned to the real world.
Alright, Have a great weekend,
that's my motto, or it would be if I started having a motto.
No more Heroes 2: It seems like it's exactly the same as No More Heroes, so its up to your opinion of No more Heroes. I loved it, I'm excited for this game and think it will be fun.
Scriblenauts. MY GODDESS. This game is amazing. It has me ready to go out and buy a DS(money available assuming). Take that as you will.
Metroid Prime Trilogy: Do you own the originals? Have you played the originals? Yes? Then skip this. It's a video game double dip.
Lego Rock Band: Kinda awesome. The game is a easier version of the game(it's going to be RB's answer to Band Hero) so the song are also slightly more mainstream. But you have The Final Countdown and Kung Fu fighting. This is going to be the game you really want at a party. even if the graphics are silly.
Wow Expansion:Cataclysm. solves one of my issues with Wow, but it still is horrible. Skip it.
OLD REPUBLIC: later in this post I'll cover this.
Assassin's Creed II: Looks just like AC1, which got borring before we finished it, so unless they introduce something amazing that hasn't been revealed yet, I'm going to skip it.
H3:ODST: It's Halo. So it's not bad. Could be better, but at least you aren't fucking master chief this time, so have fun.
Fairytale Fights: I didn't have time to demo this, but it looks entertaining so it might be worth your time.
TMNT: Smash-Up/arcade attack: These two TMNT games are TMNT games and they are worth it at 10 bucks but if they are charging any more its worth your time.
WET: This game looks like a mix between Wanted and Lara Croft. Which isn't that bad, but I've seen it before but its not horrible.
Rouge Warrior: This was kind of interesting but this wasn't that great.
Doom 2 on XBL: Its doom fucking 2. It's fun. it's old school. Hard to go wrong with a classic.
Left 4 dead 2: Did you like Left 4 dead? they didn't fix too much up, it's basically the same game. A friend who is the hardcore beat everyone at the original loved it, so take that as you will.
GOW3: hey look, a reason to own a ps3. what? You don't own a ps3? Shame on you. But it's awesome.
Uncharted 2: I didn't play enough of it to make a call on this, but it feels like the first part of uncharated(the human stuff) and its pretty fun.
Marvel ultimate allience 2: Same as the first. Interesting story. It'll be fun.
I was going to give my blow by blow experience of the Old republic footage, but because seeing is believing, here it is: http://pax.gamespot.com/video/6216995/?tag=top_stories;title;3
If your big on the Miniatures scene, Monsterpocalypse was represented by Privateer Press. The new set set to come out in October we're previewed and yeah, the new monsters look sexy.
So there it is, I had fun at PAX mostly just hanging out with people and gaming. I know, sounds like an expensive weekend of gaming, but with the previews and things going on, it is well enjoyable.
Also, the keynote wasn't that great. He was no Ron Levine or Wil Wheton. But the Penny ARcade Q and A was fantastic.
Oh one last thing, at least one ass hole went to pax with swine flu and infected at least me and 5 of my friends and beyond that there were over 100 reported cases. So fuck you guy who went to pax with the flu. For those interested me and my friends have recovered and have returned to the real world.
Alright, Have a great weekend,
that's my motto, or it would be if I started having a motto.
Fringe Season one
Fringe Season one
Alright so initially this was just going to be a review of the pilot episode of Fringe but I found that I was compelled to watch the whole season and upon its conclusion I determined that the pilot would do you the reader justice.
The show follows a fairly monster of the week formula after the pilot, even if episodes heavy in mythology. Typically you can miss a week and still be fine when it comes to the mythos of the series, you'll feel like you missed a little bit but its not like say Lost or Supernatural where the characters will end up in a completely different place an episode later than they were.
I don't suggest missing an episode, I'm just saying you can survive the first season that way. a handful(maybe 6-8) of the stand alone episodes(I'd estimate around 14 of the 20 episodes are true stand alones) aren't really worth much of your time, but they certainly try to keep you interested. There are therefore around 8 episodes of the series that are good standalones and they will give you hope for the rest of the series.
There are about 5 episodes that are Mythos episodes, and these are where this show Truly sparkles. If they focus in more on their mythology and less on the standalones(hopefully replacing half the meh stand alones with good ones and the other half with more mythology) and this show would rock.
There is also the pilot which is a beast on its own. It is worth a watch, but if it doesn't lock you in, watch the second episode for a better idea about how the fringe team will work each week and for a not horrible episode.
The basic idea of the show is that a team of an FBI agent whose past in deeply rooted in this world, a father whose basically the Tesla of our generation(along with his never seen but often talked about former partner, William Bell) and the scientists genius son as they(along with a lab assistant who becomes more and more prominent as the show goes on) and slowly you get your monster of the week, X-files clone. The problem is there if you don't like X-files, this might not do it for you. But it does use it's mythos to show it will be better than X-files at making the Mythology cool.
The real treat in the casting is Joshua Jackson as the son, along with the man Who plays the mad scientist, Walter. the other characters, especially the supporting cast of Fringe division are fantastic as well. The woman who plays Olivia isn't bad, but I wasn't ever able to care about her in the series. In fact, many of the guest stars of the week are more likable or at the very least sympathetic.
One of the biggest problems is that a great special guest appearance at the end of the season finale is ruined by A) hype and B) on screen credit. I won't ruin it for those of you who don't know, but suffice to say it is alot of awesome and to be fair was the only reason I chose to give fringe a second chance after being unimpressed with the pilot initially.
so I'll say this, its fun Scifi and its worth a peek. They go to places I wasn't expecting and the focus on these places in season 2 could turn this series around into being a new generations X-files(and hope for the greats like Dollhouse).
Alright so initially this was just going to be a review of the pilot episode of Fringe but I found that I was compelled to watch the whole season and upon its conclusion I determined that the pilot would do you the reader justice.
The show follows a fairly monster of the week formula after the pilot, even if episodes heavy in mythology. Typically you can miss a week and still be fine when it comes to the mythos of the series, you'll feel like you missed a little bit but its not like say Lost or Supernatural where the characters will end up in a completely different place an episode later than they were.
I don't suggest missing an episode, I'm just saying you can survive the first season that way. a handful(maybe 6-8) of the stand alone episodes(I'd estimate around 14 of the 20 episodes are true stand alones) aren't really worth much of your time, but they certainly try to keep you interested. There are therefore around 8 episodes of the series that are good standalones and they will give you hope for the rest of the series.
There are about 5 episodes that are Mythos episodes, and these are where this show Truly sparkles. If they focus in more on their mythology and less on the standalones(hopefully replacing half the meh stand alones with good ones and the other half with more mythology) and this show would rock.
There is also the pilot which is a beast on its own. It is worth a watch, but if it doesn't lock you in, watch the second episode for a better idea about how the fringe team will work each week and for a not horrible episode.
The basic idea of the show is that a team of an FBI agent whose past in deeply rooted in this world, a father whose basically the Tesla of our generation(along with his never seen but often talked about former partner, William Bell) and the scientists genius son as they(along with a lab assistant who becomes more and more prominent as the show goes on) and slowly you get your monster of the week, X-files clone. The problem is there if you don't like X-files, this might not do it for you. But it does use it's mythos to show it will be better than X-files at making the Mythology cool.
The real treat in the casting is Joshua Jackson as the son, along with the man Who plays the mad scientist, Walter. the other characters, especially the supporting cast of Fringe division are fantastic as well. The woman who plays Olivia isn't bad, but I wasn't ever able to care about her in the series. In fact, many of the guest stars of the week are more likable or at the very least sympathetic.
One of the biggest problems is that a great special guest appearance at the end of the season finale is ruined by A) hype and B) on screen credit. I won't ruin it for those of you who don't know, but suffice to say it is alot of awesome and to be fair was the only reason I chose to give fringe a second chance after being unimpressed with the pilot initially.
so I'll say this, its fun Scifi and its worth a peek. They go to places I wasn't expecting and the focus on these places in season 2 could turn this series around into being a new generations X-files(and hope for the greats like Dollhouse).
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Civil War, Abridged
Marvel Civil war abridged Amazon product review, a review of the sereis will come later.
I'm behind on my reviews by about another two weeks because my secondary hard drive will no longer be detected by my primary drive so le sigh.
I'll keep this brief,
The hardcover is lovely but way over priced for the content, despite being so large it only features 7 issues of content and then some really crappy bonus material, but its not bonus because you are paying 15 dollars more for this hardcover.
The biggest let down is the missing two pieces of epilogue(Captain America 25 and Civil War the Confession) that should have been included, as well the Amazing Spider-man issues that should have been included to improve the meat of the content.
Overall, skip this hard cover unless you absolutely must have a civil war hardcover.
I'm behind on my reviews by about another two weeks because my secondary hard drive will no longer be detected by my primary drive so le sigh.
I'll keep this brief,
The hardcover is lovely but way over priced for the content, despite being so large it only features 7 issues of content and then some really crappy bonus material, but its not bonus because you are paying 15 dollars more for this hardcover.
The biggest let down is the missing two pieces of epilogue(Captain America 25 and Civil War the Confession) that should have been included, as well the Amazing Spider-man issues that should have been included to improve the meat of the content.
Overall, skip this hard cover unless you absolutely must have a civil war hardcover.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Pleased to meet you, hope you guessed my name
Supernatural Season 5 review
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
NOTE: This review is written by an atheist with a deep love for the scifi elements of Christian Lore.
Episode one, season 5, "Sympathy for the Devil".
Season five kicks off with a...thunder...strike...alright whatever. The Then portion of the show opens up with Ac/Dc song ThunderStruck.
This moment is pretty epic. It's one of the weaker previously on segments. I felt like if you hadn't seen any of season 4, you'd be really confused right now. They didn't put enough push on the Angel's are real moment and continue the annoying plan of here's what you need to remember, rather than letting you be surprised.
We pick back up where season 4 left off and with a certain Fallen Angel getting his rise. I was concerned that certain mythology points might be foregone this season but they are still true to everything established and better than that they gloss over it in place of the episodes story so unless you are looking for it it's not explained, but if you've seen everything to date, it all makes sense.
Sam and Dean's relationship is just as strained as ever. This is less uncomfortable as in season 4, and for my money this makes for more watchability. I love episode 21 of season 4(when the levee breaks) but its hard for me to watch its really uncomfortable because of the places it takes characters. I really hope they bring the brothers back from this strained place quickly because their relationship is one of the key elements of this show so it makes the show harder to watch.
Bobby. Oh man, you are one awesome actor mr. Jim Beaver. I think I'd be sadder if you died then if Sam died. and thus I had a big Nooooooo moment when I thought this was going to end that way. But then I realized we were half way through the ep, and we found you in the hospital making me feel much better, But in general that was a great, earned character moment where no matter what you couldn't get Bobby to something that horrible against his will. That's not to say he didn't do his damage towards the Sam, but it was still painful to watch.
Speaking of Sam, I'm really glad they are making him tortured this season instead of trying to make him sympathetic, Last seasons attempt was a flop and resulted in me hating Sam more than anything. The show continues to push foreword the notion that Dean is running this show and that Sam happens to be there, This is an unfortunate turn the show took after a few episodes in season 3(with a couple notable exceptions) but it's clear this is far more about Dean being the Hero. So I have strong hope for redemption of Sam that the conclusion of this story will place Sam back on equal footing with Dean.
I can only wonder where this show will go post apocalypse(this is season 6.7, or 8 talk) because the show has such a foreword momentum that I'd hate to see lost ala Smallville with cool prelude, sucky overture.
The new Meg, much like the New Ruby last season, is substandard, though I am hoping she will be replaced soon based on obvious story moments.
Then I need to lastly talk about my absolutely fave stuff.
First off, Chuck is great times and the things he connects to only make our show better for it.
The return of Castiel was the single best moment of the show, it truly gives me hope for the pacing and plan for this show.
In a tangential storyline we have what I might end up considering a more brilliant character than Castiel. Lucifer. I had my doubts when I heard sympathetic devil but they brought the A game and set up a villain who is both Maleficent and Persuasive. It's easy to buy that this is a foe who has powers of pure darkness, but doesn't need them. He can talk his way out of the world. I'm curious to see what his grander and more specific plan for revenge on God is.
For those that didn't catch it, Castiel and the Brother's both Magically survived because of God's intervention.
So, stay tuned. This should be one of the few weekly tv reviews I intend to keep up on. I might try switching up the format.
As a side update: there might not be a full pax write up as I was struck by the piggy flu and most of my energy was drained to keep up a log after the fact and now my memories have faded someone. I'll at least get a write up on the MonPoc stuff and the Old Republic Demo.
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
NOTE: This review is written by an atheist with a deep love for the scifi elements of Christian Lore.
Episode one, season 5, "Sympathy for the Devil".
Season five kicks off with a...thunder...strike...alright whatever. The Then portion of the show opens up with Ac/Dc song ThunderStruck.
This moment is pretty epic. It's one of the weaker previously on segments. I felt like if you hadn't seen any of season 4, you'd be really confused right now. They didn't put enough push on the Angel's are real moment and continue the annoying plan of here's what you need to remember, rather than letting you be surprised.
We pick back up where season 4 left off and with a certain Fallen Angel getting his rise. I was concerned that certain mythology points might be foregone this season but they are still true to everything established and better than that they gloss over it in place of the episodes story so unless you are looking for it it's not explained, but if you've seen everything to date, it all makes sense.
Sam and Dean's relationship is just as strained as ever. This is less uncomfortable as in season 4, and for my money this makes for more watchability. I love episode 21 of season 4(when the levee breaks) but its hard for me to watch its really uncomfortable because of the places it takes characters. I really hope they bring the brothers back from this strained place quickly because their relationship is one of the key elements of this show so it makes the show harder to watch.
Bobby. Oh man, you are one awesome actor mr. Jim Beaver. I think I'd be sadder if you died then if Sam died. and thus I had a big Nooooooo moment when I thought this was going to end that way. But then I realized we were half way through the ep, and we found you in the hospital making me feel much better, But in general that was a great, earned character moment where no matter what you couldn't get Bobby to something that horrible against his will. That's not to say he didn't do his damage towards the Sam, but it was still painful to watch.
Speaking of Sam, I'm really glad they are making him tortured this season instead of trying to make him sympathetic, Last seasons attempt was a flop and resulted in me hating Sam more than anything. The show continues to push foreword the notion that Dean is running this show and that Sam happens to be there, This is an unfortunate turn the show took after a few episodes in season 3(with a couple notable exceptions) but it's clear this is far more about Dean being the Hero. So I have strong hope for redemption of Sam that the conclusion of this story will place Sam back on equal footing with Dean.
I can only wonder where this show will go post apocalypse(this is season 6.7, or 8 talk) because the show has such a foreword momentum that I'd hate to see lost ala Smallville with cool prelude, sucky overture.
The new Meg, much like the New Ruby last season, is substandard, though I am hoping she will be replaced soon based on obvious story moments.
Then I need to lastly talk about my absolutely fave stuff.
First off, Chuck is great times and the things he connects to only make our show better for it.
The return of Castiel was the single best moment of the show, it truly gives me hope for the pacing and plan for this show.
In a tangential storyline we have what I might end up considering a more brilliant character than Castiel. Lucifer. I had my doubts when I heard sympathetic devil but they brought the A game and set up a villain who is both Maleficent and Persuasive. It's easy to buy that this is a foe who has powers of pure darkness, but doesn't need them. He can talk his way out of the world. I'm curious to see what his grander and more specific plan for revenge on God is.
For those that didn't catch it, Castiel and the Brother's both Magically survived because of God's intervention.
So, stay tuned. This should be one of the few weekly tv reviews I intend to keep up on. I might try switching up the format.
As a side update: there might not be a full pax write up as I was struck by the piggy flu and most of my energy was drained to keep up a log after the fact and now my memories have faded someone. I'll at least get a write up on the MonPoc stuff and the Old Republic Demo.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Top 11 songs I want avaialbe via DLC
Okay so I've enjoyed Guitar hero 5 quite a bit. It's fun and requires me to work to get progresively better. but the set list is missing a few crucial songs that I want to play, so here are my top 11 songs I want available via DLC.
Honorable mention: Bleed American by Jimmy Eat World. I already have this song but I want the whole album to be available damn it,
Number 11. Sarah Yelling by Three Doors down.
10. Lights and Sounds by Yellowcard
9. The 12th day by Autopilot off.
8. 7 days till the wolves by Nightwish
7. Gimmee shelter By the rolling stones
6. The impresion that I get by Mighty mighty Bosstones
5. All my friends are Metal Heads by Less than Jake
4.Dance of the Eternity by Dream Theater
3. Juke Box Hero(live) by foreigner
2. Black Ice by AC/DC
1.Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.
check back later and I may decide to update this list with reasoning why I want said songs.
Honorable mention: Bleed American by Jimmy Eat World. I already have this song but I want the whole album to be available damn it,
Number 11. Sarah Yelling by Three Doors down.
10. Lights and Sounds by Yellowcard
9. The 12th day by Autopilot off.
8. 7 days till the wolves by Nightwish
7. Gimmee shelter By the rolling stones
6. The impresion that I get by Mighty mighty Bosstones
5. All my friends are Metal Heads by Less than Jake
4.Dance of the Eternity by Dream Theater
3. Juke Box Hero(live) by foreigner
2. Black Ice by AC/DC
1.Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen.
check back later and I may decide to update this list with reasoning why I want said songs.
Another update
So few things going on, this week, (and to an extent last week) and possibly next week there will be no updates. Sorry about that, but in trade I have some cool stuff coming up. Firstly is my PAX write up. I'll be doing each each night but won't post it till I'm ready to piece together a full article with photos and the like. and this will be huge. Pax is after all, tomorrow. Next I'll have a review for Supernatural Season 4 blu ray set(and possibly a review for some episodes in prep for the upcoming season 5.
I'll be putting together a write up for Gurren Laggan and my thoughts on the series, and a review for Guitar Hero 5.
All of this is what's planned through the 18th(the beginning of my epic move).
I'll be putting together a write up for Gurren Laggan and my thoughts on the series, and a review for Guitar Hero 5.
All of this is what's planned through the 18th(the beginning of my epic move).
Friday, August 28, 2009
World's Greatest Dad
World's Greatest Dad
Robin Williams Latest
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
Fair warning up front. This is a deranged, manic, dark comedy. Most of the movie revolves around a plot moment from around the 30 minute mark. And so I'm going to mention it here in a bit but first the topic I'm going to address is the set up of those thirty minutes. The film does what it can to try and get you to care about Robin Williams. And you do feel bad for him. This is because he has a son whose into snuff porn and Auto erotic asphyxiation. Then on top of that this is a kid whose the worlds biggest dick. He's an ass hole to everyone, including his best(only) friend. But back to Robin Williams. He's a poetry teacher at his son's school and also an aspiring writer. He's written five novel, not a one that has been published. He wants to be rich and critically accepted. He has a secret girlfriend whose one of the other teachers who keeps mysteriously canceling on him. And the one time Robin calls her on it. she gets bitchy and attacks him.
So you spend the first 30 minutes wondering if she is stepping out on Robin. There's also another teacher who is Robin's "friend". Sort of. But you can tell they are rivals more than friends and when he publishes something in a major magazine, Robin gets jealous, especially when his "girlfriend" starts spending more time with his "friend".
So at this point, you can tell that there are things going on behind the scenes but because the movie is told from just Robin's perspective you arn't entirely certain what's going to happen. And then that key moment happens. After a dinner where Robin introduces his son to his girlfriend(his son is an ass to her), his son goes home and Robin takes his girlfriend back to her place. When he gets back to his son, he minds something he didn't expect. His son is dead. This is done in a humourous fashion in that he died by trying to suffocate himself to masturbate. But having more respect for his son than that, he makes it look like he killed himself and writes him a suicide note. Well days go by and the school newspaper some how gets a hold of the police report and publishes the suicide note. This adversely affects the student population, everyone turning around and suddenly being sad he died and pretending that they used to be friends.
Things spiral out of control from there including Robin publishing his son's Diary( a new novel he wrote over the weekend) and appearing on a opera like show about this until finally in a renaming ceremony of some building does Robin reveal the charade. He then jumps into a pool naked(symbolism, or a chance to show off robin Williams naked, could go either way) and then the film ends as a musical number plays while the ripple effects of the revelation affects the school.
The humor is really dark stuff. You'd probably need a pretty dark and twisted mind to fully appreciate the humor. There are a few jokes here and there that are a real hoot, particularly the stuff involving the students in the school and their sudden affection for the Son. for any one who has seen Robert Rodriguez' family film, Spy Kids, its pretty jarring to see the lead boy from that series go on to play such a fucked up kid that really really could use some help in the world. I will admit I went into this moving not expecting much and I got some laughs and found it an interesting movie. Being a dark humor type film there are some moments where you are cringing at some of the stuff from the line being crossed, but the film is pretty good at balancing these with enough of the lighter moments in the movie to really balance the film into perspective. And in reality, you really do sympathize with Robin Williams character for just trying to do the right thing at first but being corrupted by the possibility.
So would I recommend this movie? Not necessarily as a theatrical experience, this isn't district 9 or Up where you really need that big screen effect, but it certainly would be worth your five dollars at the blockbuster truth be told you could see a lot worse movies this summer(the recent horror movies sans Drag me to Hell come to mind). So be Cautious with your dollar, because you vote with it about what you want to see in theaters during the next four years.
Robin Williams Latest
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
Fair warning up front. This is a deranged, manic, dark comedy. Most of the movie revolves around a plot moment from around the 30 minute mark. And so I'm going to mention it here in a bit but first the topic I'm going to address is the set up of those thirty minutes. The film does what it can to try and get you to care about Robin Williams. And you do feel bad for him. This is because he has a son whose into snuff porn and Auto erotic asphyxiation. Then on top of that this is a kid whose the worlds biggest dick. He's an ass hole to everyone, including his best(only) friend. But back to Robin Williams. He's a poetry teacher at his son's school and also an aspiring writer. He's written five novel, not a one that has been published. He wants to be rich and critically accepted. He has a secret girlfriend whose one of the other teachers who keeps mysteriously canceling on him. And the one time Robin calls her on it. she gets bitchy and attacks him.
So you spend the first 30 minutes wondering if she is stepping out on Robin. There's also another teacher who is Robin's "friend". Sort of. But you can tell they are rivals more than friends and when he publishes something in a major magazine, Robin gets jealous, especially when his "girlfriend" starts spending more time with his "friend".
So at this point, you can tell that there are things going on behind the scenes but because the movie is told from just Robin's perspective you arn't entirely certain what's going to happen. And then that key moment happens. After a dinner where Robin introduces his son to his girlfriend(his son is an ass to her), his son goes home and Robin takes his girlfriend back to her place. When he gets back to his son, he minds something he didn't expect. His son is dead. This is done in a humourous fashion in that he died by trying to suffocate himself to masturbate. But having more respect for his son than that, he makes it look like he killed himself and writes him a suicide note. Well days go by and the school newspaper some how gets a hold of the police report and publishes the suicide note. This adversely affects the student population, everyone turning around and suddenly being sad he died and pretending that they used to be friends.
Things spiral out of control from there including Robin publishing his son's Diary( a new novel he wrote over the weekend) and appearing on a opera like show about this until finally in a renaming ceremony of some building does Robin reveal the charade. He then jumps into a pool naked(symbolism, or a chance to show off robin Williams naked, could go either way) and then the film ends as a musical number plays while the ripple effects of the revelation affects the school.
The humor is really dark stuff. You'd probably need a pretty dark and twisted mind to fully appreciate the humor. There are a few jokes here and there that are a real hoot, particularly the stuff involving the students in the school and their sudden affection for the Son. for any one who has seen Robert Rodriguez' family film, Spy Kids, its pretty jarring to see the lead boy from that series go on to play such a fucked up kid that really really could use some help in the world. I will admit I went into this moving not expecting much and I got some laughs and found it an interesting movie. Being a dark humor type film there are some moments where you are cringing at some of the stuff from the line being crossed, but the film is pretty good at balancing these with enough of the lighter moments in the movie to really balance the film into perspective. And in reality, you really do sympathize with Robin Williams character for just trying to do the right thing at first but being corrupted by the possibility.
So would I recommend this movie? Not necessarily as a theatrical experience, this isn't district 9 or Up where you really need that big screen effect, but it certainly would be worth your five dollars at the blockbuster truth be told you could see a lot worse movies this summer(the recent horror movies sans Drag me to Hell come to mind). So be Cautious with your dollar, because you vote with it about what you want to see in theaters during the next four years.
Top 11 Moments of Yu Yu Hakusho
Top 11 Moments of Yu Yu Hakusho
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
11. Kuwabara "Dies" by Toguro.
Now no matter who you are, this moment was a big fucking deal. Either you were crying in sorrow, your were crying in joy, or your crying because I kicked you in the balls, you know that this was one hell of a moment. As far as anyone knew, Kuwabara had died. This wasn't a little death either, this was blood bursting out your back bad. And yeah it's cliche now for action animes to do this, but bear in mind that YYH comes from the early nineties. So it was pretty much this and Dragon Ball Z that were THE premiere fighting animes(and still are to this day, Mecha be damned).
Number 10
The Dragon of the Darknes Flames owns Zeru
This was the moment that gave you so much hope for the Dark Tournament, Both Hiei and Zeru had tried to give the appearance of being bad ass, but when that dragon shows up, you feel its presence. And then you stop feeling Zeru's as he is deep fried, with not even a bone left for the dog demons. Truly prolific moment.
Number 9
The doctor kills people left and right
This is just one of those straight up, holy shit moments where this series lives up to its name for being the best straight up action anime. When the doctor first slices into someone you see the blood fly and you actually feel some fear for the supporting characters lives. He pushes you into wondering what the hell is going to happen. There is no question how strong this opponent is. The best bit is that up to this point the blood as been rather understated unless its an important battle, but here we are 6 episodes into a new arc and the blood is flying, The doctor does what bullseye proposed to do to daredevil, "put the fear in him".
Number 8
they let Gamer die.
This is one of the awesome moments that is clearly fucked over by what is likely an editorial retcon. I'm referring to just a few episodes later where it turns out that Koenma saved him. coughBullshitcough. But I digress. This is by and far one of those moments where you know they have been pushed to their limits and corrupted. Especially Kurama. This is the beginning of the end for our heroes being able to be called good without some hesitation. I mean, these are supposed to be the good guys, since when do the good guys just let little kids die, Fuck you Roland the Gunslinger you be quiet.
Nummber 7(a tie)
Yomi beats Yusuke
Enki wins the Makai tournament
This was as much a two way tie as a double whammy what the fuck moment. first we find out via flashback that Yusuke lost. Which for an action anime that's impressive. And since he's the main character and this is an elimination tournament that's even more impressive that the main character LOSES. It was pretty typical up to this point that the hero wouldn't lose a major tournament that c(w)ould change the fate of the worlds. and then add on that we then suddenly find out that one of Raizens old friends and all around nice guys, Enki, went on to win the tournament. From the shows final arc, this isn't quite what is expected. But its also one of those moments where you know exactly why you love this show.
Number 6
Genkai's ruse
This is such a fun twist that I couldn't not include it. When it is revealed that these characters that had been introduced and displayed as what was going to be the arc's villains turns out to just be the flunkies of none other than Genkai, its another of those moments that says, hey this Sensui arc might be different.
Number Five
Yusuke owns Kuroda the mind reader
Now going into this list, I knew I could rely solely on the touching and the whiskey Tango Foxtrots. I knew I'd need to have moments of Comedy because that was more than half of this show. It was an action/comedy. So I thought about it and my fave moment was the "I'll throw a straight right hook and stop just before I hit his face" moment. Not only does it catch the audience off guard, it catches a guy who can read minds off balance. This is also one of those hilarious little bits that sets up this guy as an asshole, and certainly not a good guy, or at least not a hero(hence why after the doctor's bit, we never see him again despite his obvious usefulness). I'm also just going to mention a related fave moment of Kuroda's: "she's going to make out with her teacher! he have to stop her!...Or watch!"
Number four
Yuu Kaito's and Kuramas' battle of wits
this falls into a similar place as number five. It was with this awesome sequence that the creators were looking at their audience and saying, HEY, this will be both cool and different. Finally proving once and for all that Kurama really is this brilliant tactician and on top of that getting one of the most hilarious Hiei gets owned for his own stupidity moments, this section has the laughs and the tension. The other cool bit? The show decides to prove that this is equally a team show by having Yusuke sit out this sub arc.
Number three
Kurama mind fucks Elder Toguro
If you don't know what this moment is, go rewatch Kurama's anger. When Kurama loses his cool, you know shit is going to go down. And it does.
Number two
Raizen takes over Yusuke
If you didn't see this moment making this list, you weren't watching the same show, its one thing to have your main character die and come back stronger than ever. ITs quite another for even that not to be enough to kill the bad guy. So when Yusuke's Demon ancestor the Mazoku comes back to inhabit his body and just beat the snot out of of sensui, only to have yusuke take over at the last minute (and fuel a rage and empties that would drive Yusuke next arc) you've done a pretty impressive job with a moment that could have been crappy. Plus, how creepy was Yusuke as a possessed demon?
and the number one moment of Yu Yu Hakusho is....
Yusuke dies in the first 5 minutes.
Holy panda hell. that was my first reaction to seeing that first episode, not knowing what the show was about, and to watch a main character die in the first five minutes and go on to keep narating and explain things, I knew this show would be something special. It may not be much, but it is the defining moment of Yu Yu Hakusho, telling you that while death may not be permanent, the stories that can be told and the emotion from those moments will have an effect,
Here are some of the other moments that are clearly awesome too, but I had to cut down my fave 21 moments down to 11 so There it is.
The Death Of Genkai
Chu's Knife edge death Match
Yusuke vs Jin, a battle of Friends
Sniper Owns Kuroda the Mind Reader
Hiei vs Yusuke:The REmatch
Yusuke Dies again.
Yuskue and puu both evolve
Hiei cuts open Shigures head
Mukuro's a chick
Chu, Rinku, Toyua, Shikki, Jinn and The Beautiful Suzuka return!
The Kiss of Legend(Yusuke+Keiko)
So thats it, the complete top 11 awesome moments of Yu Yu Hakusho.
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
SPOILERS
11. Kuwabara "Dies" by Toguro.
Now no matter who you are, this moment was a big fucking deal. Either you were crying in sorrow, your were crying in joy, or your crying because I kicked you in the balls, you know that this was one hell of a moment. As far as anyone knew, Kuwabara had died. This wasn't a little death either, this was blood bursting out your back bad. And yeah it's cliche now for action animes to do this, but bear in mind that YYH comes from the early nineties. So it was pretty much this and Dragon Ball Z that were THE premiere fighting animes(and still are to this day, Mecha be damned).
Number 10
The Dragon of the Darknes Flames owns Zeru
This was the moment that gave you so much hope for the Dark Tournament, Both Hiei and Zeru had tried to give the appearance of being bad ass, but when that dragon shows up, you feel its presence. And then you stop feeling Zeru's as he is deep fried, with not even a bone left for the dog demons. Truly prolific moment.
Number 9
The doctor kills people left and right
This is just one of those straight up, holy shit moments where this series lives up to its name for being the best straight up action anime. When the doctor first slices into someone you see the blood fly and you actually feel some fear for the supporting characters lives. He pushes you into wondering what the hell is going to happen. There is no question how strong this opponent is. The best bit is that up to this point the blood as been rather understated unless its an important battle, but here we are 6 episodes into a new arc and the blood is flying, The doctor does what bullseye proposed to do to daredevil, "put the fear in him".
Number 8
they let Gamer die.
This is one of the awesome moments that is clearly fucked over by what is likely an editorial retcon. I'm referring to just a few episodes later where it turns out that Koenma saved him. coughBullshitcough. But I digress. This is by and far one of those moments where you know they have been pushed to their limits and corrupted. Especially Kurama. This is the beginning of the end for our heroes being able to be called good without some hesitation. I mean, these are supposed to be the good guys, since when do the good guys just let little kids die, Fuck you Roland the Gunslinger you be quiet.
Nummber 7(a tie)
Yomi beats Yusuke
Enki wins the Makai tournament
This was as much a two way tie as a double whammy what the fuck moment. first we find out via flashback that Yusuke lost. Which for an action anime that's impressive. And since he's the main character and this is an elimination tournament that's even more impressive that the main character LOSES. It was pretty typical up to this point that the hero wouldn't lose a major tournament that c(w)ould change the fate of the worlds. and then add on that we then suddenly find out that one of Raizens old friends and all around nice guys, Enki, went on to win the tournament. From the shows final arc, this isn't quite what is expected. But its also one of those moments where you know exactly why you love this show.
Number 6
Genkai's ruse
This is such a fun twist that I couldn't not include it. When it is revealed that these characters that had been introduced and displayed as what was going to be the arc's villains turns out to just be the flunkies of none other than Genkai, its another of those moments that says, hey this Sensui arc might be different.
Number Five
Yusuke owns Kuroda the mind reader
Now going into this list, I knew I could rely solely on the touching and the whiskey Tango Foxtrots. I knew I'd need to have moments of Comedy because that was more than half of this show. It was an action/comedy. So I thought about it and my fave moment was the "I'll throw a straight right hook and stop just before I hit his face" moment. Not only does it catch the audience off guard, it catches a guy who can read minds off balance. This is also one of those hilarious little bits that sets up this guy as an asshole, and certainly not a good guy, or at least not a hero(hence why after the doctor's bit, we never see him again despite his obvious usefulness). I'm also just going to mention a related fave moment of Kuroda's: "she's going to make out with her teacher! he have to stop her!...Or watch!"
Number four
Yuu Kaito's and Kuramas' battle of wits
this falls into a similar place as number five. It was with this awesome sequence that the creators were looking at their audience and saying, HEY, this will be both cool and different. Finally proving once and for all that Kurama really is this brilliant tactician and on top of that getting one of the most hilarious Hiei gets owned for his own stupidity moments, this section has the laughs and the tension. The other cool bit? The show decides to prove that this is equally a team show by having Yusuke sit out this sub arc.
Number three
Kurama mind fucks Elder Toguro
If you don't know what this moment is, go rewatch Kurama's anger. When Kurama loses his cool, you know shit is going to go down. And it does.
Number two
Raizen takes over Yusuke
If you didn't see this moment making this list, you weren't watching the same show, its one thing to have your main character die and come back stronger than ever. ITs quite another for even that not to be enough to kill the bad guy. So when Yusuke's Demon ancestor the Mazoku comes back to inhabit his body and just beat the snot out of of sensui, only to have yusuke take over at the last minute (and fuel a rage and empties that would drive Yusuke next arc) you've done a pretty impressive job with a moment that could have been crappy. Plus, how creepy was Yusuke as a possessed demon?
and the number one moment of Yu Yu Hakusho is....
Yusuke dies in the first 5 minutes.
Holy panda hell. that was my first reaction to seeing that first episode, not knowing what the show was about, and to watch a main character die in the first five minutes and go on to keep narating and explain things, I knew this show would be something special. It may not be much, but it is the defining moment of Yu Yu Hakusho, telling you that while death may not be permanent, the stories that can be told and the emotion from those moments will have an effect,
Here are some of the other moments that are clearly awesome too, but I had to cut down my fave 21 moments down to 11 so There it is.
The Death Of Genkai
Chu's Knife edge death Match
Yusuke vs Jin, a battle of Friends
Sniper Owns Kuroda the Mind Reader
Hiei vs Yusuke:The REmatch
Yusuke Dies again.
Yuskue and puu both evolve
Hiei cuts open Shigures head
Mukuro's a chick
Chu, Rinku, Toyua, Shikki, Jinn and The Beautiful Suzuka return!
The Kiss of Legend(Yusuke+Keiko)
So thats it, the complete top 11 awesome moments of Yu Yu Hakusho.
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