Building a Case for a Remake: Spotlight on “The Shadow”

My first exposure to the mysterious superhero was in Alec Baldwin’s take on the character in the 1994 film, “The Shadow”.  Although I was only ten years old upon seeing it, it will forever have a special place in my heart. Call it nostalgia, or whatever you like. I can’t help but get pulled into a character whose powers are mainly telepathy and hypnosis. 

A Little History

“The Shadow” isn’t anything new. In fact, the character is older than Superman. The character began as a narrator for the radio program titled “Detective Story Hour” in 1930. Once people became enthralled by the character, he was later depicted in “The Shadow Magazine” in 1931. The character was created and conceptualized by Walter B. Gibson (in 1931) and went on to have its own radio series in 1937. 

Note: Superman made his debut in comics in June 1939.

Note: The Shadow made his debut in comic in 1940.

Fun Fact: Orson Welles actually voiced The Shadow in the radio series from 1937 to 1938. 

 

Okay, so who’s The Shadow Now?

The character with the black hat and crimson scarf is a hero that obtained his powers while traveling East Asia. It is in his travels that he uncovered the power to cloud men’s minds. The Shadow has many aliases – Lamont Cranston, Henry Arnaud, Fritz and others. At least in comic print, The Shadow’s real name is Kent Allard and takes upon these other identities (some are actual other people – that have left the country for a long period of time) to conceal his existence. We are never really told too much on the origin of The Shadow (the 1994 film did elaborate on this).

He’s also a lot like Batman in that he is a rich playboy (Lamont Cranston) and he has a working relationship with New York City’s Commissioner. He’s a lot NOT like Bats in that he has a network of people that assist him. These people are mostly those that owe The Shadow for saving their lives or believe in his cause.  These people range from a newspaper reporter, a physician, a cab driver, and the socialite, Margo Lane. 

 

“Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of men? The Shadow knows!” – The introduction in “The Shadow” radio series.

 

The popular character has gone on to appear in mostly short films and B-movie features that were predominantly made from the late 1930s to the late 1950s. It wasn’t until 1994 that the character got a big budget feature film.

 

What’s so Great about the 1994 Movie Anyway?

Say what you will about the film. Some will lambast the over the top cheesiness or the illogical hula hoops the characters make, but I bet you a pink slip to my car (not really but I’m trying to stay relevant with my “Fast and Furious” references) that upon revisiting the movie today, it will be met with much delight. There are many reasons to see a movie but above all, it’s an escape of self and the everyday. “The Shadow” showcases what it means to simply have fun with a character that is part Batman and part Doctor Strange. 

In the beginning, Lamont Cranston (Alex Baldwin) loses himself after World War I and becomes a warlord and drug kingpin (under the name Ying-Ko) while in Tibet. It isn’t until he is captured by the holy man known as The Tulku (who has supernatural powers) that he is offered a means to redeem himself. Although initially refusing and threatened by a sentient dagger (not kidding), Cranston is taught the mystical ways for seven years before returning to 1930s New York City. 

Check out the trailer!

Filling in where he left off as the millionaire playboy Lamont Cranston, he takes to the streets handing out vigilante justice. Of course, he also has a vast network of assistants to help him. Oh, and his other weapons of choice? Two wicked grizzly pistols. 

The film takes a bite of cheese when the descendant of Genghis Kahn, Shiwan Kahn (John Lone), awakes from his tomb and hell bent on world domination (because that’s what his family wanted). Shiwan is also seemingly more powerful than The Shadow. We come to find out that he was trained by the same master (The Tulku). 

Shiwan is written as one of the most one-dimensional on-screen villains but actor John Lone has a lot of fun with the role. You know that whole thing about world domination or whatever? Well, he recruits/mind controls a nuclear scientist (played by a young (er) Ian McKellen) to build an atomic bomb.  McKellen really hams it up as a scientist and father to Margot Lane (Penelope Ann Miller).

Even with a solid musical score (thanks Jerry Goldsmith) and production values, the best part of the film is the concept of mind control. How The Shadow clouds everyone’s minds at will is awesome. With such a power, The Shadow has a leg up on most every other hero. 

Even the supporting cast is of note. It is highlighted by performances from  Peter Boyle (who plays a cab driver) and Tim Curry as a neurotic, sycophantic villain.

For all its flaws, “The Shadow” is highly re-watchable. It also harkens back to a time where action movies were absorbed at their face value instead of the high scrutiny most movies are met with today (which is a downfall of review aggregator websites like Rotten Tomatoes).

The film was directed by Russell Mulcahy. That name may sound familiar to you as he’s done “Highlander” (and its horrific sequel), “The Real McCoy” and most recently many TV episodes of “Teen Wolf”. I can’t argue that Mulcahy is a particularly good director but I do believe that his type of films are alluring in their own right. Let’s not forget that “Highlander” is one of the coolest movies!

Note: “The Shadow” opened in theaters right around the time of “Lion King” and Jim Carrey’s “The Mask”.

 

The Shadow in Comics

After appearing as a comic book strip in newspapers (from 1940-1942), the character was published by Archie Comics in the 1960s and met with outcry by fans as The Shadow was reinvented with gadgets and the like.

In the 1970s, DC Comics gave The Shadow a 12 issue run and brought the character back to its true form (its 1940s roots). The character would actually make special appearances in the Batman comics — #253 and #259.

“The Shadow: Year One #4”

The character was also modernized (mistakingly at the expense of purists) in 1986 in a 4 part run by Howard Chaykin titled “Blood and Judgement”, which was published by Marvel.  In that run, it put The Shadow in the present day and even explained his past.

Dark Horse Comics even did a couple story arcs that ran from 1993 to 1995. However, It wasn’t until 2012, that the character was resurrected by Garth Ennis and publisher Dynamite Entertainment.

Note: The last run on the character came from popular comic book writer Cullen Bunn in 2015. 

 

So, Why Another Remake?

Outside of the above reasons, The Shadow can exist on many different fronts. I can’t help but gravitate towards the character, especially in a time where superhero blockbuster movies are the norm. Moreover, we need a hero that hasn’t been ‘Nolan-ified’. Yes, ever since “Batman Begins”, there has been a sort of gravitas and plausibility injected into darker heroes. The Shadow can exist to entice its viewers with elaborate adventures and a sense of ‘unawareness’ outside of the confines of our present day. This notion helped the 1994 movie and is best suited when thinking of the superhero.

Amongst the plethora of remakes and reboots (and the many to come), I’d like to nominate “The Shadow”.

 

 

 

 

Warner Bros. Looks to Change Course and Inject Hope in their DC Movies

Ever since Geoff Johns has been announced as President of DC Entertainment in July 2016 (while also retaining his Chief Creative Officer position), there has been a big shake up with the current slate of DC films that have yet to come out. Johns is already working on writing the next solo “Batman” film and did a rewrite of the upcoming “Wonder Woman” film. Johns, along with WB executive Jon Berg, are now in charge of the rest of DC films which include: “Justice League”, “Wonder Woman”, “Flash”, and “Aquaman”.

Johns and Berg admitted that the take with ‘gritty superheroes’ was a mistake and look to inject hope into their films. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Johns elaborated,

[I]n the past, I think the studio has said, ‘Oh, DC films are gritty and dark and that’s what makes them different.’ That couldn’t be more wrong. It’s a hopeful and optimistic view of life. Even Batman has a glimmer of that in him. If he didn’t think he’d make tomorrow better, he’d stop. (Wall Street Journal)

Johns also stated that “Justice League” will address Batman’s extreme actions in “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” — the torture tactics and almost killing the best superhero ever, Superman, with kryptonite.

I have the utmost faith in Geoff Johns. He is an excellent comic book writer that really understands the characters. He really is the answer to Marvel’s cinematic universe (which is being spearheaded by Kevin Feige). Not only that but Johns has yet to write a dismal comic book story arc (that I know of). He literally brought Green Lantern back from the dead and reinvigorated the Justice Society of America. Oh, let us not forget that DC Comics’ Rebirth event spurred from Johns’ event book, which has led to huge sales for DC (yes, DC Comics is now beating Marvel in comic book sales).  As an unruly nerd, I will sleep well at night knowing Johns is at the helm of DC’s movies.

Although Zack Snyder is still attached to direct “Justice League”, you can bet that the director will be under a watchful eye, especially with this new angle. You know, actually depicting these characters the way most people relate to them? With hope. 

“Wonder Woman” – release date: June 2, 2017
“Justice League” – release date: November 16, 2017
“Flash” – release date: March 16, 2018
“Aquaman” – release date: July 27, 2018

 

Notes:

No, the “Suicide Squad” film does not count as a reworking of DC’s movies as Johns wasn’t brought in to save it. “Suicide Squad” failed because it was a tonal and narrative misfire with much blame being directed towards studio influence reacting to the negative reviews of “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” and a preconceived notion of the “Suicide Squad” trailer not matching to the much darker adaptation that director, David Ayer, had in mind.

Yes, Geoff Johns was a creative consultant on the terribly received “Green Lantern” (2011) and executive producer on the disastrous “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”.

 

“Green Lantern” was written by four people – Greg Berlanti, Michael Green, Marc Guggenheim, and Michael Goldenberg. When you have this many credited writers, it’s usually a telltale sign of a film being thrown together without much pure creative inspiration. Johns should’ve been the sole writer on GL as he was the one largely responsible for reinvigorating the character in the comics circa 2008.

 

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” – Johns was executive producer which doesn’t really mean sh*t other than his name appealing to die hard comic book fans. The writers of this are Chris Terrio and David S. Goyer.

“Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders” animated film brings back 1960s TV Batman & Robin!!!

Holy Mackerel Batman! Yup, that’s right. The actors, Adam West and Burt Ward, are back portraying the characters that made them famous all those decades ago. Even Julie Newmar (who played Catwoman) will be providing her voice in the upcoming animated feature. The story will look to pit the ‘caped crusaders’ against campy villains like the Joker, the Penguin, the Riddler and Catwoman. Let’s hope Bats finds good use of his shark repellent!

Check out the trailer below!
 

 

The film will be released digitally on October 11th and on DVD/Blu-Ray on November 1st. The 1960s TV series ran from 1966 to 1968 on ABC. For those feeling nostalgic or just want to embellish in a goofy Batman, this will certainly be a treat!

“All Star Batman #1” puts Batman between a Rock and a Hard Place

In what begins in a local diner with townsfolk enjoying their meals while having playful banter ends when two bounty hunters and Batman come crashing through the window. As Batman makes quick work of them, the onlookers begin to blame the caped crusader for ‘having brought him here’. Of course, we have no idea what they are referring to and then the story gives us a flashback detailing how things got to this point.

We come to find out that Two Face is the main villain in Gotham (usurping the Joker), especially after unleashing acidic rain on its citizens. Batman receives a video recording that was made by an ‘in control’ Two Face (aka Harvey Dent) letting him know that he can really only be ‘saved’ if he is brought to an undisclosed location (that the two know about exclusively).

We then flash forward a bit and see Batman transporting Two Face to this location but come to find out that the bad side of Two Face has a devious plan – he broadcasts to the public that he has everyone’s secrets through advanced computer software (that was actually built by Dent as an anti-crime measure) and threatens to release all of this information should Batman reach his ultimate destination with Two Face in tow. Moreover, Two Face also states that the citizen that stops them from reaching their destination and killing Batman will be given an extremely large sum of money.

During their flight, Two Face tries to rationalize his stance in that people can be ‘bad’ and all they really need is a little push. Batman seems to be confident that no one can really locate them since they are in a stealth mode until something shoots them out of the sky. This brings us up to speed – the diner scene. As Batman narrowly escapes with Two Face, he now faces a long road ahead of him where everyone is out to get him, including some unfamiliar villains.

The ‘twist’ at the end of the issue was a nice cherry on top of this richly crafted comic. I do not want to spoil anything but suffice it to say that someone’s secret is too much for them to risk getting out. We are all curious as to what this secret actually is.  

Scott Snyder really knows how to tell a gripping, in your face story that not only dignifies the bada$$ Batman but always raises ethical issues as well as how easily people can turn on each other for their own greed. Two Face exists to exploit this very issue.

The only thing that bothered me during the issue was John Romita Jr’s artwork. His clunky, almost square-ish take on superheroes is aggravating to me. This is doubly true when there have been much better artists that have worked on Bats – Jim Lee, Greg Capullo, Lee Bermejo, etc.

All in all, this is an excellent debut for “All Star Batman”. The narrative was original with a blend of insightful understated ideology and action packed sequences. Be sure to pick this one up!
 

Grade: A- (only because I have such a disdain for Romita Jr. as an artist)

“Suicide Squad” is Basically a Two Hour Long Movie Trailer

In what was likely the most anticipated movie of the year ends up being one of the worst I’ve seen in theaters. How bad do you say? It is worse than the 2003 stinker, “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” (which made Sean Connery retire from acting). With ‘League’ there was at least an effort to tell a linear story, which also managed to be grounded by a main character.

How did we get here?

With the disappointing “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” film, fans at least had solace with the fact that “Suicide Squad” would come out and alleviate any concerns to be had about the DC Cinematic Universe. If you remember correctly, after the negative critical response of “B v S”, Warner Bros. was so concerned about their ‘universe’ that they forced the cast and crew of “Suicide Squad” to do reshoots so that fans’ expectations of the film matched more so with its movie trailers (and also to get away from the ‘grim’ and ‘gritty’ take on their superheroes). With that, there were more jokes and pop music injected into the film (annoyingly).

Story & Characters

The first twenty five minutes of the film gives a small introduction to many of the ‘squad’ (certainly not all) and a short dossier explaining why they’re perfect material for the ‘worst of the worst’ team. These ‘introductions’ are supposed to give audiences a sense of understanding, beyond their ‘villain’. This is simply not the case when all we see is them doing bad things without any such remorse whatsoever. Oddly enough, the only one that seems to have a weak spot is Deadshot (Will Smith), who loves his daughter but is okay with continuing to lie to her that he isn’t a ‘bad guy’. As Amanda Waller (played by Viola Davis) relays her sales pitch to a gov’t official, she reiterates that should anything go wrong, there’s already a built in deniability because they’re criminals (just as you saw a thousand times in the trailers).

After all the seemingly random inserted pop songs introducing each unredeemable character, a threat rises for them to take on. As the team assembles and prepares for an unknown terrorist threat (yup, they aren’t even specifically told what they’re up against), we get some playful banter between Deadshot and Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman) as well as a few extra squad members – Slipknot and Katana (with a stupid subplot about how her sword holds souls).

I should mention that this ‘squad’ does not know each other at all. They have all been in separate cells yet act like a dysfunctional family when it comes to their first (and hopefully last) mission as the ‘Suicide Squad’. The only time we really see this team interact is before the lack luster third act. In this bar scene, we get a glimpse of everyone’s morality. Much of this stems from El Diablo (Jay Hernandez), a gangster who can create/manipulate fire. In his story we learn that he killed his wife and children. The reaction of the group was like, “hey, you can’t kill women and children”! I thought to myself, “that’s the line we are drawing here”? Anyways, this scene was meant to invigorate these characters and give them an opportunity of redemption not because they were forced to (by Waller et al) but because they wanted to.

After all is said and done, the only characters that seemed to get an ‘ending’ were Deadshot, Harley Quinn and Rick Flag. You can forget why you have Captain Boomerang (played by Jai Courtney in a role he actually excels in), Killer Croc (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agnaje), Katana (Karen Fukuhara) or Slipknot (Adam Beach) in this movie. None of these secondary characters are given any depth whatsoever and only reside to fill out the rest of the squad.

                You can’t expect audiences to care for these characters when you don’t know what they are all about, where they’ve been, etc. This is exactly the reason why “Avengers” was a film that worked. You know what the Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, and Captain America are all about. They’ve each had their own stories, leaving the larger scale movie, “Avengers”, to focus on how everyone relates, especially in times of conflict.

My Biggest Complaint (s)

The biggest problem with the film is with the surface level subplots of its main characters –Deadshot (Will Smith), Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), and Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman) and the complete lack of subplot for the devious Amanda Waller.

Deadshot is essentially a serial killer (for hire) who really has one thing going for him – the love of his daughter (which Amanda Waller exploits).

 
Harley Quinn probably has the most interesting subplot with her relationship with the Joker (Jared Leto) but the whole idea is ill-conceived when there isn’t any explanation as to why she really fell in love with the Joker in the first place. If only this subplot was expanded it would provide an anchor on which other characters can exist. This is the strongest plot point to the entire film but is squandered for attempted punches of comedy (one liners), pop music and a villain that’ll remind many more of “Ghostbusters” (the original) than anything inventive.
Rick Flag is an Army Special Forces officer tasked with leading the squad but is at odds with his orders because of his strange relationship with Dr. June Moone (Cara Delevingne), who is possessed by a really old, evil witch named Enchantress.

 
Amanda Waller rounds up a group of murderers with extraordinary abilities and gets the gov’t to okay her Task Force X team to save the world. All we know is that she’ll do anything to ensure everyone plays ball. She’ll also kill innocent bystanders if it’ll mean the secrecy of the task force is kept. We have no idea what drives her as a character and she exists only to prove her ruthlessness.

In other words, what we know of these characters does not justify how we should feel about them. It is very difficult to sympathize with any of these characters. The only character I was made to feel the most about was Harley Quinn and her toxic relationship with the Joker (I wanted an entire movie focusing on this) yet we barely scratch the surface with their dynamic.
 

Action & Special Effects

For as much money the studios are pumping into the marketing of this film, you’d think the same would be true for its special effects and action scenes. The effects designed for Enchantress and her witchcraft were borderline laughable as her costume seemed to be completely CGI. Even Enchantress’ voice was a reminder that Zuul (from “Ghostbusters”) was a better villain.

The action scenes were very run of the mill. There was nothing new to really show other than Captain Boomerang throwing a boomerang, Slipknot scaling a wall (sort of), Harley Quinn wielding a bat, and Deadshot shooting his guns. What I’m trying to say is that no one really stood out except El Diablo and Killer Croc.
 

Takeaway
 

“When does it end”? – Deadshot to Flag
 

I was thinking the same thing while watching the movie. This dreadful film, which tried to disguise itself as DC’s answer to “Guardians of the Galaxy”, is one of the biggest disappointments of the year. The marketing (the flashy colors and fun pop music) behind the film is brilliant but it stands in front of a tone imbalanced movie that horrifically tries to execute rather interesting characters.

The film is actually directed by the talented David Ayer, who, up until this point, was known for making good films. Ayer’s previous directing efforts include “Training Day” and “End of Watch”. “Suicide Squad” currently sits with a 26% on Rotten Tomatoes but still managed to have the biggest August opening weekend ever with $135 million. It’ll be interesting to see the film’s numbers come its second week (given all the negative press after the film’s release). As of writing this, the film has garnered $146 million domestically and $133 million in foreign sales (worldwide total: $280 million).

Grade: F

 What’s upsetting is that this movie should have exceeded. It has a wonderful cast, a more than capable director and a rich universe of characters to base itself on. 
I’m a giant DC Comics fan and to see their films continue to suffer is highly frustrating. When will they learn?
Should I give up on DC films? “Wonder Woman” isn’t coming out until June 2017.

Where does it stand in the plethora of Superhero movies (or should I say super villains)?

“The Punisher” (2004) > “Suicide Squad” > “Fantastic Four” (2015)

The Killing Joke…a Bad Joke

Much talk has been going wild around the release of the animated movie rendition of the graphic novel “The Killing Joke“.  “The Killing Joke” was written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland and released in 1988 by DC Publishing. The movie adaptation is directed by Sam Liu (Justice League vs Teen Titans), and returns voice actors Mark Hamil (Joker) and Kevin Conroy (Batman). A short synopsis of the book deals with a one shot story that has recently become continuity of Barbara Gordon/Batgirl becoming, victimized, sexually exploited and ultimately paralyzed by the Joker. The book itself is iconic to Batman readers worldwide, so it comes to no surprise DC opted to make an animated move rendition. The movie was released in select theaters on July 25, digitally July 26th and hard copy release set for August 2nd.

With much excitement and fanboy anticipation I opted for the digital copy and sat down this weekend to watch the film.  The movie starts with a new beginning or extra story that has been added in order to make a longer film. The extra material added fails to support Batgirl as a valid crime fighter and actuality stains the personification of who she is. The new material makes her out to be a character that has no superhero like qualities, gullible, and demeaning. It reminded me of Dabney Coleman’s character role of Franklin Hart in “9 to 5” and how he saw women. Batgirl in the first section of the film falls into a love/hate relationship of sorts for a mob villain, Paris Franz, who objectifies her only as a sexual conquest.  The movie further fails in embracing Bargirl when she confronts Batman wanting her off the case to find Paris. Which stirs a battle between Batgirl and Batman and ends up with a one night stand hookup between Batman and Batgirl. Now, I had heard rumor of this from the San Diego Comic Con. I wanted to believe maybe Batman was Dick Grayson, which would support the idea of Barabra and Dick hooking up. BUT…..No. Yes, (insert heavy sigh) the movie went there and has crapped on not only Batgirl but Bruce Wayne as well.

I cannot figure out why this approach was approved by DC or any of the executives. Never in my reading of Batman have I found where Batman would act in this manner with someone in the family. Its seriously a big flop on DC’s part and they should feel shamed.

Now as the movie continues, it does finally start to get to the book source material. Its in this back half of the film where I finally found some enjoyment. Mark Hamil absolutely is the best Joker voice actor and this film is perfect for anyone who loves Hamil’s Joker.

Kevin Conroy….we all know he’s the best as Batman. Some viewers might see the back half of the movie as a direct book copy with nothing new added. I leave that up to the individual viewer to determine for themselves if they like that approach. Personally I loved it and thought it was done well. So as a whole I cannot hate the film, but I cannot get behind it and say it added to the great history of Batgirl.  Truthfully this movie should have had an approach of Batman looking out for the Bat family, especially since there was an Easter Egg to Jason Todd’s death in the movie. The idea of further creating an exploitation of Batgirl is not needed.

Is this film a must see? No. Is it a renter? Yes. Maybe its best as a borrow from a friend. This could have been a ballpark home run for DC but it ends up being just a let down especially for those who love the graphic novel. Which leads me to believe maybe some stories should be just that, a great graphic novel and nothing more.

Red Hood & The Outlaws Rebirth

One of the coolest comics to come out yesterday I have to say is the new Red Hood & The Outlaws Rebirth issue.  Out of all the Robin’s, Jason Todd has always been my favorite. His background has been uniquely different from the other Robins. A dead mother, a father in prison, and nothing but the streets as a means of upbringing, Jason Todd is indeed a complex character. Scott Lobdell (Writer) and Dexter Soy (Artist) have created an issue that embraces that troubled past of Jason, before becoming a Robin. Opening page is down right funny in where you see Jason taking the wheels off the Batmobile. As funny as that may seem, the real focus of the issue gets the reader to also empathize with Jason and how his relationship with Batman has evolved. All the major background points get touched on in this issue, the distrust, criminal activity, and the infamous Joker death scene. More importantly you get the real setup towards the end of the book of how Jason Todd as the Red Hood views himself in relation to Batman and the boundaries he can go that Batman won’t cross.

The issue that really hit home with me, is that I felt Batman is harder on Jason Todd than any of the other Robin’s. That’s just my interpretation of the writing in this issue. I could be wrong, nonetheless the writing and art are on point for this book. I am truly impressed with this issue as a whole and happy to see Jason Todd continue to get his own title. If your a fan of Batman and want to explore the other characters in the Gotham world I strongly suggest picking up this book.

Could August be one of the best months for Pop Culture?

Sure, this is more of a subjective statement but I can’t help but ‘gush’ about all the upcoming things to look forward to. After all, there has been a major shortage of pop cultural news ever since the end of the San Diego Comic Con last weekend. Many studios waited until SDCC to release major announcements and their movie trailers. 

So, this ‘list’ isn’t in any particular order. The sole purpose is to simply make those aware of what’s to come in August and boy it’s gonna be great!

Sidenote: I’m leaving out the 2016 Summer Olympics (in Rio) for the fact that it’s more sports related and with all the controversy surrounding the event: Zika virus, hostile gangs, Russians being disqualified, many professional athletes withdrawing, etc. that it doesn’t look like it’ll live up to the event it should be.

 
Movies

“Suicide Squad”

What is it? A big budget movie (with an all-star cast) that looks to better develop the DC cinematic universe. Let’s not talk about “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”.

What’s it about? A team of criminals are rounded up for a secret mission. Together they must ward off a powerful entity while also dealing with the Joker.

Thoughts: This is one of the most buzzed about movies on the internet and for good reason. You saw Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and Jared Leto’s crazy Joker right? That’s what really sells it for me. I wish this movie would come out already!

Release date: 8/5/2016
 

“Ben-Hur”

What is it? A big budget remake of the two classics that came before (note: there was a silent film in 1907 as well). Most notably, the Charlton Heston 1959 classic that was a sweeping epic and an achievement in cinema (especially at the time).

What’s it about? A prince (Judah Ben-Hur) is falsely accused by his own brother of treason and is sentenced to years of slavery. Judah plots his revenge while forever being changed by his encounters with Jesus of Nazareth.

Thoughts: I absolutely love the 1959 film (it’s better than “The Ten Commandments”) although I remain only intrigued by the film. The promos up until this point aren’t exactly selling me and the ubiquitous Morgan Freeman is becoming too much. Moreover, the director, Timur Bekmambetov, isn’t exactly known for ‘great’ movies. He previously did “Wanted” and “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter”. However, the co-screen writer for this is John Ridley, who won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for “12 Years a Slave”(2013).

There’s also the fact that the overall story kicks major a$$. I love me a revenge story, particularly amidst the backdrop of the swords and sandals era.

Release date: 8/19/2016
 

Video Games

“Abzu”

What is it? An indie video game coming from the art director (Matt Nava) of the wildly popular “Journey” video game. Re-cap of the video game here.

What’s it about? You are an underwater diver exploring the depths of the oceans.

Which platforms? Playstation 4 and Microsoft Windows platforms

Thoughts: Would you look at those visuals? That music! This definitely harkens back to what made “Journey” such an excellent game. Be sure to check out the trailer!

Release date: 8/2/2016
 

“No Man’s Sky”

What is it? One of the most anticipated video games out there. It is the most open world video game ever to come into existence. Players can explore, combat, trade and survive in a seemingly endless amount of environments — 18 quintillion different planets (all with different fauna and flora).

What’s it about? It’s about whatever you want it to be! Sounds daunting but after checking out the promos for this, this surely seems the case. You can gain materials and blueprints to upgrade your equipment and purchase other ships (which can allow you to travel further to the center of the galaxy) or combat on hostile environments.

Thoughts: Just check out the trailer for crying out loud! The game was developed by Hello Games Studios (by Sean Murray and Grant Duncan). It is games like this that will help spearhead the potential in Virtual Reality video games.

Release date: 8/9/2016
 

TV

“Halt and Catch Fire” season 3

What is it? An acclaimed AMC TV series about the early stages of computing (early 1980s).

What’s it about? The show carefully weaves how technological innovation helped propel ideas of how we connect/interact with the world. Within this notion, we follow three different people that are integral to each other. One is an engineer, one a brilliant coder and the other is the ‘visionary’. There are obvious parallels that exist in the series – like the relationship between Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.

Thoughts: This is one of those TV shows that I cannot seem to shut up about. Although the first season was uneven, the second was a critical darling. With this ‘critical’ momentum, AMC decided to green light a third season. As the first season focused on the idea of mobile computing and the second season about video gaming, this upcoming will see the group head to Silicon Valley where it’s do or die in the competitive computer world.

Release date: 8/23/2016
 
 

Comic Books

DC’s Rebirth Event continues!

What is it? Yeah, Detective Comics is still in the process of ‘rebirthing’ all of its core characters. With new takes on already famous characters – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, the Flash, the Green Lantern Corps, etc. With the onset of August, we still have to look forward to new iterations of other characters and ‘super’ teams.

*Still have to wait until September 21st for “Trinity” #1.
 

“All Star Batman”

Written by: Scott Snyder (one of the best writers)

Art by: John Romita, Jr. (one of the worst artists)

In the first story, Batman must team up with Two-Face as they go on a mission while every assassin is hot on their trails with one goal in mind – ‘killing Batman’.

Release date: 8/10/2016
 

“Blue Beetle: Rebirth”

Written by: Keith Giffen

Art by: Scott Kolins

The little known hero known as Blue Beetle (Jaime Reyes) is put to the test when he loses his memory and, upon reaching his hometown, finds that he must contend with gov’t officials that want the scarab that gives Jaime Reyes his superpowers.

Release date: 8/24/2016
 

“Deathstroke: Rebirth” #1

Written by: Christopher Priest

Art by: Carlo Pagulayan and Jason Paz

Slade Wilson, aka Deathstroke, is the world’s greatest assassin but is challenged by someone he can’t see. Wilson is challenged to change himself and his addiction to violence. Will he lose everyone in his life due to his addictions?

Release date: 8/10/2016
 

“Supergirl: Rebirth” #1

Written by: Steve Orlando

Art by: Emanuela Lupacchino and Ray McCarthy

Supergirl looks to restore her powers when something goes terribly wrong in the form of the lost Kryptonian werewolf, Lar-On. I guess Krypton is full of mysteries!

Release date: 8/17/2016
 

“Suicide Squad: Rebirth” #1
Written by: Rob Williams

Art by: Philip Tan and Jonathan Glapion

Captain Flag has been named a war hero and a traitor before he was banished to a secret military prison. After years spent serving time, Flag is given an opportunity by Amanda Waller – command the Suicide Squad!

Release date: 8/3/2016
 

“Superwoman” #1

Written by: Phil Jimenez

Art by: Phil Jimenez and Matt Santorelli

Lois Lane is now Superwoman (thanks to new superpowers) and continues on the ‘super legacy’. Things go awry when Lois comes to find out that her powers are killing her. Will she or her friend, Lana Lang, be able to figure things out while trying to uncover the secret of Ultra Woman?

Release date: 8/10/2016

 

There’s a lot to keep the nerd in me busy this August (and I hope you too!). I do not have a reason to really leave the house (except for those upcoming movies). What do you think about my anticipated list? Think I missed anything?

“Justice League” trailer drops over SDCC weekend!!!

No one really expected to get any footage of the upcoming “Justice League” movie so soon but no complaints here!
Check it out! Definitely looks more fun than the doom and gloomy “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice”.

The film will be directed by Zack Snyder and produced by Geoff Johns and Deborah Snyder. We have to wait until November 17, 2017 for the film’s release!

Could the “Wonder Woman” movie be doomed?

I don’t usually write ‘speculative’ pieces but in this case will make an exception. Now, why do I think the upcoming film (set for June 2, 2017 release) may be worrisome? Well, because one of the writers of the film is Zack Snyder. Yes, the director of “Man of Steel” and “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice” has his claws in the iconic female character’s first solo live action feature film. Now, before you get out of your seat and start throwing things, this is the full press release from Warner Brothers:

   “Wonder Woman” hits movie theaters around the world next summer when Gal Gadot returns as the title character in the epic action adventure from director Patty Jenkins. Before she was Wonder Woman, she was Diana, princess of the Amazons, trained to be an unconquerable warrior. Raised on a sheltered island paradise, when an American pilot crashes on their shores and tells of a massive conflict raging in the outside world, Diana leaves her home, convinced she can stop the threat. Fighting alongside man in a war to end all wars, Diana will discover her full powers…and her true destiny.
 

Joining Gadot in the international cast are Chris Pine, Connie Nielsen, Robin Wright, David Thewlis, Danny Huston, Elena Anaya, Ewen Bremner and Saïd Taghmaoui. Jenkins directs the film from a screenplay by Allan Heinberg and Geoff Johns, story by Zack Snyder & Allan Heinberg, based on characters from DC Entertainment. Wonder Woman was created by William Moulton Marston. The film is produced by Charles Roven, Zack Snyder, Deborah Snyder and Richard Suckle, with Rebecca Roven, Stephen Jones, Wesley Coller and Geoff Johns serving as executive producers. Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with RatPac-Dune Entertainment, an Atlas Entertainment/Cruel and Unusual production, “Wonder Woman.” The film is scheduled for release on June 2, 2017, and will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
 

Critically acclaimed comic book series, “Legend of Wonder Woman”

So, Snyder didn’t necessarily write the screenplay but he wrote the story upon which it is based. The other strong fact is that the guy is not directing this but rather Patty Jenkins (that “Monster” movie with an ugly Charlize Theron). So, hopefully the entire tone of this film will be different, especially after how receptive Warner Bros. has been to fan reactions of ‘Dawn of Justice’.

The other credited writers seem to be a solid move in the right direction – Allan Heinberg and Geoff Johns.

Geoff Johns is DC Comic’s all-star. Johns wrote numerous fan favorite books – “Green Lantern: Rebirth”, “Justice Society”; wrote for hit TV shows – “Smallville”, “Arrow”; and will co-write the upcoming “Batman” solo movie with Ben Affleck.

Allan Heinberg is known for writing and producing “Sex and the City”, “OC” and “Gilmore Girls”.

 
With Geoff Johns on this I can sleep a little easier. I can totally ‘get’ the reason Heinberg has been brought in. Just look at the intended target audience here. It shouldn’t come as much surprise.

Does Snyder’s involvement worry me? Yes, but I must say that his involvement likely came before “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice” was released into theaters last March. This leaves rooms to iron out some of the kinks.

The film is currently in post-production whereas “Justice League” continues filming in London with Zack Snyder still at the helm.

Wonder Woman is one of my favorite heroes and I just want desperately for her to the movie I know she deserves.