The New Reviewed Renewed - Black Widow

Copyright owned by Disney/Marvel

The New Review

Black Widow

Starring Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh

Directed by Cate Shortland

Concept: The Avengers' resident Femme Fatale got her own movie. Explaining what she went through between Civil War and Infinity War.

Some spoilers ahead...

Execution

Cast: ScarJo is back, being her Black-Widowy self. Florence Pugh went from being a relative unknown, to being a powerhouse actress, she is the perfect counterpoint to ScarJo's Natasha. It is as much her movie as it is ScarJo's. And it works. David Harbour is pretty funny, Rachel Weiss is stoic... but both seem wasted. Explanation coming. And a great villain, and not the one you are thinking from the trailers. They needed more... but still had enough.

Score: 15/20

Presentation: The Typical MCU fanfare is what this movie was. And it likes to jump around to different locations, we don't spend enough time in any location long enough to matter. The prison break was a fun sequence, but it reminded me quite a bit of the House Party Protocol in Iron Man 3, with the scaffolding and quick cuts... just in the snow. The soundtrack... was boring, but it starts with a cover of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit", if it was written by a depressed teenage girl...... and it sounded pretty damn good. Not enough to save the soundtrack.

Score: 15/20

Chronicle: The MCU has developed an amazingly complex spy thriller. It was called "Captain America: The Winter Soldier". Black Widow was NOT that level. Because it wasn't that complex. It was a straightforward spy thriller with extra extra action... with a bit of a broken family reunion story mixed it... and there wasn't enough of it. Definitely made to set up Yelena as the new Black Widow, and they did just that. The villain had a face(Ivan Dreykov), but the real villain was the Red Room itself. It didn't dumb down the child trafficking, and remembered the pheromone angle from the comics. But the story didn't feel like it had enough solid footing. It's a fun film, but it won't make or break any major story line. It was a spy movie... an action movie... a broken family movie... a sister film... but doesn't want to superhero. And it just doesn't do enough in any direction aside from the sister film.

Score: 19/30

Impact: The MCU BIG female character finally getting her own solo film. It will effect the MCU going forward, but the movie could've been so much better. It's nice what happened with Nat between Civil War and Infinity War... but it didn't feel like it was an important as it was made out to be. And that made up for the hype. It was self-contained, and aside from poking fun at Natasha being an Avengers, it was quite separated from the overall MCU. You knew it was MCU, but no other Avengers make an appearance. If was released when it was supposed to, it would be a much better fit. But no fault from Disney on that. So I will be lenient on that. So... recap... it will affect the MCU going forward, but still not affected by the MCU as a whole. Got it?

Score: 17/20

Extra Oomph: This is your spoiler section. First up... Red Guardian definitely wasn't a hero. Not...a...hero. And he had NO redemption in the movie. None. And I love that idea. It wasn't his movie. He doesn't need it. The mission he had making the fake family with Natasha and Yelena to cover for his real mission. Then basically giving those girls up to the Red Room, knowing what Dreykov was going to do to them...... Alexei is no hero. And they never pretended he was. Second... The Taskmaster. I went into the movie hoping it WASN'T Tony Masters like in the comics. I was hoping for a different payoff: the seemingly throw away comment with about Dreykov's Daughter from the first Avengers movie. The thought I had was... Nat tried to kill Dreykov and thought she killed his daughter as collateral damage. And... dammit... that is EXACTLY what they did. And I LOVE it. He got off unscathed, but his daughter was burned. He turned his daughter into the Taskmaster, complete with mimic skill the character is known for. And it FIT the narrative. Tony Masters wouldn't have fit... there was enough exposition, we didn't need this too. So this was the direction it was supposed to go. Even covered in clichés... this was the right call. So... it gets bonus points for that.

Score: 13/10

FINAL SCORE: 79/100

FINAL GRADE: C+

Conclusion: It's an MCU movie. So, at minimum it had to be good. But... that's it. It was good. Not mind blowing... not even great. Just... good. Happy that Natasha finally got her solo movie, but it ended up not being just her movie. It was a shared experience to "pass the torch" to her "sister" Yelena Belova. So I guess they still makes it a Black Widow movie regardless. The official start of Phase 4. But... only the post credit scene. And... it didn't do Nat justice. It should've been a much strong film...... and it wasn't.

It's all a matter of opinion: I cannot stress enough that THIS is MY opinion, you can either agree with me or not. I don't have to justify my opinion, because *clears throat* that's what this blog is about. Whether I like it or not doesn't mean you have to or not...... I'ts just my justification behind MY recommendation... Which leads me to my FINAL JUDGMENT...

FINAL JUDGMENT: If you love the MCU movies, you need to see this movie. And I'm a fan. I want to watch it again. It was a good spy action film. But not good enough. I want to love it. But I can't. I can at least say I liked it. And will watch it again. And I think you all should to. Up to you if you want to do that in theater or on Disney+, I recommend it.

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So Black Widow is finally out. And it gets an 79.

Worth the wait from Covid? I'm... still not sure on that. Not the worst MCU movie. But not the best. It needed to be a mini series. More time on the individual aspects. But it was still a good enough movie to watch.

Tell what you thought. Did you see it? Gonna see it? What could they have done better? What did they do just right? Leave a comment. Share this review on social media.

And don't forget...

We Are The Audience.

No idea what the next review will be, but stay tuned for more lists and some new concept posts coming through.

Thank you for any support!

Renewed Top 10 - Indie Comic Book Works

Here is yet ANOTHER Part getting us to the BIG lists.

This time, we are looking at Movies and TV Shows that would be considered Indie. My only real criteria for that will be it can't be DC or Marvel. That is really it.

And there are some really good ones on this list.

How about it?

Top 10 Indie Comic Book Works

Here we Go!!!

Honorable Mention 1: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(franchise): This one was a rough one. Why? Because this franchise has produced some amazing content. The original movie, the 80s cartoon, the first of the Nickelodeon TMNT Cartoons(the CGI one). But it has also produced some mediocre(Secret of the Ooze, TMNT animated movie)... and some TERRIBLE ones(TMNT 3...... and Michael Bay, I'm looking at you). Because of the inconsistency of the franchise as a whole, it needed to be talked about, but it couldn't make the list proper.

Honorable Mention 2: Sky High: Disney's attempt at an original superhero movie. And it was a good idea. But even though the movie feels like a Disney Channel original(was it one, I can't remember)... we got some Kurt Russell... we got some Bruce Campbell... and we got some Danielle Panabaker action going on.

Honorable Mention 3: Bloodshot: I got to see this one in the theater right before my local one shut down for Covid(the same day actually). And I'm glad I got to see it. A great action film, and a wonderful job acting from Vin Diesel. So much so, it feels like a Riddick movie(high praise for Vin Diesel). A great introduction to the Valiant Comics Universe, and I need there to be more.

10: Mystery Men: The most mismatched group of superheroes with a star studded cast. Need a Bowler? What a dude that gets pissed off, but doesn't turn green? What about The Shoveler? Ben Stiller, William H. Macy, Hank Azaria, and Paul Reubens!!!

9: Hellboy 1& 2: This belongs to the Ron Perlman movies. Nothing against the David Harbour portrayal... but Ron Perlman IS Hellboy. His snarkiness, mixed with humor, and a great story. Sad we never got a Hellboy 3.

8: The Unbreakable Trilogy: M. Night Shyamalan created a unique idea. Using his "I have to have a twist" mentality, he created a Superhero movie that COULD work in reality. Built a phenomenal hero and villain with David and Mr. Glass. Along with one of James McAvoy's BEST roles in "Split". And bringing them together in "Glass" with a another twist playing a part. It was a well built trilogy...... I just wished it ended better... and we could get more.

7: Dredd: Ah... Dredd. The Stallone Judge Dredd movie was a sack of fetted shit. It was. But Karl Urban was playing him in this reboot. It is gory, violent, and self-contained. It feels like a Judge Dredd movie. And I cannot wait for more.

6: Invincible: The newest entry on this list. Amazon Prime adapted this wonderful comic series into a VERY adult level animated series from Robert Kirkman(The Walking Dead). Superb voice cast, great storytelling, and so damn violent. Even knowing the Omni-Man twist, I was so hooked. One season so far... but already renewed for 2 and 3. NOT for kiddos.

5: A History of Violence: Did you know this was based on a graphic novel? I didn't at first. But yes... it is. A story about a family man who owns a diner in Indiana... defends his store in a robbery in spectacular fashion. Only to find out... he wasn't always a nice family man. Viggo Mortensen is one of the best, and this is one of his best works. Watch it if you haven't yet.

4: Spawn the animated series: I loved the live action Spawn movie. But even I know it is a terrible movie. But this animated series from HBO was amazing. Dark, gritty, violent, with some animated boobs. But the storytelling was ripped straight from the comics themselves. Oh... not to mention, Keith David providing the voice for our Hellspawn. Yes, Keith David... the voice of Goliath from Gargoyles. That Keith David. So much a part of this show's success, that when Mortal Kombat players FINALLY got Spawn as a playable fighter in MK11, Ed Boon had Keith David come back as the voice...... 20+ years after this series. Just like the comics... not for the faint of heart of stomach. NOT for kiddos.

3: The Crow: The death of Brandon Lee sets this movie apart for so many people. But for me, it is the whole package overall. Story is solid. Dark, gritty, beautiful. Quotable. And one of the best Soundtracks in the business. Sure, they changed some of the elements from the novels, but it just... worked. I watch this movie every year on October 30th. Devil's Night. It can't rain all the time. Right?

2: Sin City: The Eponymous comic book movie. It comics just like a comic book. How so? Images feeling like they were ripped straight from the pages of those noir style novels. All black and white except one color per scene to follow. Multiple separate stories all crossing in one setting(including one the movie created for it). Memorable for the style, stellar cast including Bruce Willis, Mickey Rourke, Jessica Alba, Rutger Hauer, Carla Gugino, Clive Owen, Powers Boothe, Rosario Dawson, Michael Clarke Duncan... and Elijah Woods as a CANNIBAL! Star studded. Packed. But not overwhelming. Too bad the sequel wasn't as good.

And the Number 1 Indie Comic Book Work...

1: The Boys: Clearly. Was it gonna be anything else? This Amazon original series is not only one of the best Comic book shows, but one if the best shows I've ever seen. Period. No competition. And that is really strong praise. The show is engaging... gory and violent... funny at times... with some of the best casting. Karl Urban is on this list again, and there is no other that could be Billy Butcher. Jack Quaid showing that he is his father's son. So much RAW emotion coming from Karen Fukahara... and she doesn't speak any English thus far. And Anthony Starr killing it(literally and figuratively) as Homelander, making a villain that is both warm AND vicious. And only getting bigger, with the addition of Jensen Ackles for Season 3. Nothing comes close to this. And I've watched alot. Oh... and simple premise... what if the Justice League were glory seeking assholes worried about PR and endorsement deals instead of saving people? Did I say simple? I mean complicated. You'll see. Oh...... one last important detail... NOT for kiddos.

There you go! Top 10 Indie Comic Book Works. Tell me if I missed any good ones? Leave a Comment. Share this thing!

Renewed Top 10 - Fictional TV and Movie Presidents

It's the 4th of July! At least the Weekend of... The celebrations! The Fireworks! The alcohol! The Flags!!!

So in honor of the United States' Independence Day, here is my top 10 list of Fictional Presidents. As always, we are looking at Presidents in movies and TV shows... being awesome.

So let's get to it.

Top 10 Fictional TV and Movie Presidents

Honorable Mention 1: Robert Wisdon as Richard Nixon in "Watchmen": So, yes... I know Richard Nixon was a real President. Looking back he sure feels fictional, but he was real. But this version of Nixon was President for more than 2 terms due to the US and Russia never leaving the Cold War.

Honorable Mention 2: Robin Willians as Tom Dobbs in "Man Of The Year": It's Robin Williams. A huge what if type story. A Jon Stewart type character farsely runs for President. Due to a voting machine malfunction, he is elected President. The reason, this doesn't go on the list...... if he doesn't get to really BE President. He gives up his victory due to finding out about the machine error.

10: Peter Sellers as Merkin Muffley in "Dr. Strangelove": This wonderful STANLEY KUBRICK Cold War satire is made that more brilliant with the legendary Peter Sellers trying to figure out a plan against the titular character's Doomsday Device.

9. Jeff Daniels as Jackson Evans in "The Contender": A story about a President having to deal with the sudden death of his VP. He must choose a replacement. He goes against the recommendations, and decides on a Woman for his VP. This movie showed me that as goofy as Jeff Daniels can be, he can be JUST as composed and serious. Presidential, if you will.

8. Morgan Freeman as Tom Beck in "Deep Impact": The ONLY thing you need to know about why this is on the list is it is Morgan Freeman as President. Just like in the Almighty movies, he played God. It is that kind of fit.

7. Michael Douglas as Andrew Shepherd in "The American President": Douglas plays a good person Presidential widower who is just trying to get back into world. Falling in love AND trying to be President. One of the best Romantic movies I've seen. It's worth a watch.

6. Dennis Haysbert as David Palmer in "24": The first TV Series on this list and is part of the reason this list includes TV series. Jack Bauer is the hero to the "24" series, but if there was a number 2 protagonist, it is David Palmer. He is as much a hero on his front as Jack is on his.

5: Jack Nicholson as James Dale in "Mars Attacks": Goofy Tim Burton alien invasion movie. But dammit, he had to ask Jack Nicholson to play his President. And he played it as himself. This is Jack playing Jack as President. Like the Morgan Freeman entry... that speaks for itself.

4. Luke Wilson as Joe Bauers in "Idiocracy": Average American soldier Frozen for 500 years. Wakes up in a society of idiots. Easily becomes President. Think Mr. Smith goes To Washington Meets Futurama. And even that is still gonna make this movie more weird for you.

3. Martin Sheen as Josiah Barlett in "The West Wing": One of the GREATEST TV series of the modern era. And 100% because of Martin Sheen in this role. Smart every man feel to his character. With some of the best Presidential speeches I've seen. So much so, I would vote for Josiah Bartlett.

2. Harrison Ford as James Marshall in "Air Force One": Harrison Ford plays badasses. It is what he does. And here he is playing a President who decided to fight against hijackers on HIS plane. Air Force One is a decent action thriller, but Harrison Ford elevates it because he is Harrison Ford. And this was Ford during his stride.

And the Number 1 Fictional TV or Movie President...

1. Bill Pullman as Thomas Whitmore in "Independence Day": Ha... list for Independence Day... and this one is number one!? Seriously though, I love Bill Pullman. He is an underestimated actor. He really is. And this one... contrast to Jack Nicholson in "Mars Attacks", here we have a more serious alien invasion movie with a President who was able to be badass and calm under pressure. And Pullman pulls this off smoothly, with one of the BEST fictional Presidential speeches in film/tv history...

Which you can watch here -> Whitmore Speech

There you go. Any fictional Presidents I might've missed that you love? Tell me in the comments.

Renewed Top 10 - Non-MCU Marvel Works

The next part of the Superhero lists through out this Summer.

If you read the the title, you may wonder what it means to be a Non-MCU work? Well, it could a Fox movie... it could be an animated series... it could be from BEFORE there was an MCU. So there are quite a bit of stuffs to pick a list from.

So... how about it?

Top 10 Non-MCU Works

Here we go...

Honorable Mention 1: Ghost Rider: So... yes, this movie. It is cheesy. There is plenty of awkward Nic Cage craziness. And some forced attempts at horror. And introduced us to Rebel Wilson. But overall, the movie is entertaining AND Peter Fonda makes a great Mephisto. I stand by this movie. Just... don't watch the sequel. Don't do it.

Honorable Mention 2: The New Mutants: New Mutants was wonderful. It really was. An attempt to make a superhero universe horror film. And it worked. It would've been on the list proper if it were a completed story. It was planned for a Trilogy. It was planned to have a HUGE X-Men villain. But due to the acquisition of 20th Century Fox by Disney, this ended up being the FINAL Fox Marvel movie instead. Unrealized potential is why it didn't make the list proper.

10: X-Men 2 X-Men United: The first X-Men movie was the catalyst for the modern superhero craze. But it was only finding its footing. The sequel, however, stood firm. A man plotline for the story, but seemlessly wove in the subplots. Starting from one of the best opening scenes I've ever seen. Sequels are usually worse. This one is one of the greatest examples of why that isn't always true.

9: The Punisher (2004): Frank Castle will show up more than once here. This time around, he have Thomas Jane at the titular character. Instead of killing his wife and kids, this time around JOHN TRAVOLTA has his entire family murdered. And a few hand to hand fight scene that are fun AND brutal. Not to mention this movie introduced me to the late great stand-up comedian John Pinette. And it was also shot in half the time of a normal action flick. That... is impressive.

8: Spider-Man 2: Tobey... Tobey... Tobey. Engaging story about Peter's PTSD... mixed with a plot revolving around a wonderfully written Doc Ock. Another example of the sequel being better. And... fixed an aesthetic issue I had with the first movie...... ever notice the buildings don't reflect like the should in the windows in the first movie? Yeah......

7: X-Men & Spider-Man Animated Series: So no, this isn't the same show. It is 2 different shows. But I put them together for a reason. Fox was on fire with 90s animated series. And these two had a unique formula... with multi episode arcs, like the comics and outfits ripped straight from the comics as well. They also belong together because they were part of the same animated universe. Comics came to life in these 2 shows.

6: Big Hero 6: Baymax is on this list. Yes, this is a kid-friendly adaption of a Marvel comic. And I... keep forgetting that. It could be because the comics are much less kid-friendly... and this movie is tons better. Unique. Smart. Cute. Makes me cry EVERY time.

5: X-Men Days of Future Past: This was a risky movie. Taking the original X-Men Trilogy and the First Class stories combine. Seemingly natural. Dynamic between the future dystopia and the old school feel. With a great story showing us how branching through time should work. This also had the first Quicksilver slo-mo scene, and THAT alone was a masterpiece.

4: Punisher (Netflix)(Bonus: Daredevil season 2): If I had finished this series yet, I would put it higher. But the fact it is HERE without it being done yet speaks volumes. The BEST live action version of Frank Castle in Jon Bernthal(like Matt Ryan is to DC's Constantine... no one else can play him now). Now... why include Season 3 of Daredevil? Specifically, that is when they debuted this Punisher. And the graveyard scene is by far one of the most emotional scenes Non-MCU or MCU combined(one of...).

3: Logan: The final outing for Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. It felt like a Clint Eastwood epic. Dark, gritty, sad, gory, fun. And it made me cry. Twice. Like a baby. So well written. With an unexpected villain... Logan's own health. And it is responsible to introducing Dafne Keen, the young actress who played Laura. One role is all it took to see she has a bright future(and now she has her own series on HBO called His Dark Materials). Hard R Rating... and it needed it. Logan finally got to be the feral beast we know and love.

2: Deadpool 1 & 2: If there was ever a labor of love in comicbook movies, it is Deadpool. Ryan Reynolds IS Wade Wilson. Even if you don't like comic book movies, this is Van Wilder in Spandex. Gory, funny, 4th Wall Breaking. And 2 DIFFERENT movies. Different writers... different crews. And somehow, it makes BOTH movies better. I don't know what else I can say about Deadpool that you can't hear from Ryan Reynolds himself... so... do that. And watch those movies. Unless you are a kid. Then no. These movies have a HARDER R than Logan. Yes... I mean it. Not for kiddos.

And the Number 1 Non-MCU Work...

(After that last one, WHAT could be better?!?!)

1: Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse: From the people who brought us Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, this is a MASTERCLASS in animation. So much so... it won an Oscar for it. Beautiful colors, glitchy twitches that told the story, and speaking of story... it focuses on Miles Morales and not Peter Parker. Juggled a coming of age story with an origin story with a multiverse story. And... never dropped one of them. Introduced multiple versions of Spider-Man... making a unique origin for each, without throwing up all over Miles' story. Including voices from Nicholas Cage, Hailee Steinfeld, Jake Johnson, Mahershala Ali, Kathryn Hahn, Liev Schreiber, and a BREAKOUT performance from Shameik Moore... this is one of the BEST animated movies I've ever seen... and a surprise Oscar Issac alluding to his involvement with the sequel. It stands out. Watch it.

And there it is. The Top 10 Non-MCU Works.

Any you think I missed? What do think about the ones that made it? Comment and Share...... and above all else... watch them if you haven't.

Part 3 of many is down.

Renewed Top 10 - DC Animated Works

The counterpart to the Previous Top 10. I felt animated needed to be separated, because as mentioned before... Marvel might beat DC in Live Action, but DC kills it in animation overall.

So how about a list for that?

Top 10 DC Animated Works

Here we go...

Honorable Mention 1: WildCATS: A different team, now a part of the DC Universe. It was during the wave of meaningless animated adaptations. Many people missed this. Something that felt familiar but felt different. And it was a great one.

Honorable Mention 2: Static Shock: DC Morning animation gave us this gem. Set in the Justice League shared Universe. This was DC's Spider-Man series. It was. Teenager who ends uo with powers now has to juggle that with high school life. They even tackled a school gun violence episode.

10: Justice League Dark: Animated DCAU movie centered around Matt Ryan as Constantine forming a magical team... with Batman. Animation on point. Story was well done. And Boston Brand being funny. It was a pretty good introduction to the magical portion of the DC Universe.

9: Batman The Brave and the Bold: Cartoon Network gave us this series that was as cheesy as the Adam West 1966 series. With Diedrich Bader as the voice of Batman. It was episodic, each one being its own story. And entertaining as it was goofy.

8: The Death and Return of Superman: Technically called "The Death of Superman" and "The Reign of the Supermen", buying them together in a set, it is called that. They did the truncated version in the infancy of this studio, and it was... okay. So we had a version in DCAU. And it is wonderful. Of the comic stories, this is near the top of the crop. Iconic story... done beautifully through animation.

7: Superman the Animated Series: When this series came out, I had one HUGE hang up about it. Clark Kent was way too solid. He LOOKED like Superman in a business suit. And it worried me. But one iconic theme later, and we have the definitive Superman animated series... that ended up leading to the definitive Justice League series(which makes this list too). Besides... Clancy Brown as Lex Luthor was SPOT ON.

6: The Dark Knight Returns Parts 1 & 2: This is the Frank Miller Batman story of Frank Miller Batman stories. Set in the future, Batman comes out of retirement... and attacts the attention of the US Government. Peter Weller gives Bruce that weathered, but still bad ass in his old age. Besides... killing Conan O'Brien is satisfying. If you've seen it, you get it.

5: Flashpoint Paradox: So this movie in the DCAU presents us with the first Flash story I gave any damn about. Heartbreaking, ingenious, and a surprise Michael B. Jordan. It was brilliantly adapted. Also... it introduced audiences to the team that USED to be the WildCATS, complete with Grifter. Give me a movie centered around them... now please.

4: Batman Beyond: Many people are going to moan that this should be higher on the list. And maybe for you... but wait until you see the top 3. This was futurist take on Batman, set in the future of the Batman the Animated series. Some of the stories were weak... sure. But the overall feeling of this series is truly timeless. Different takes on old Batman villains(like the Jokerz gang), new villains. And tech galore. It was a different series. A different Batman. And it felt good.

3: Justice League/Justice League Unlimited: These are essential the same series from the people that brought us Batman: the Animated Series, Superman: the Animated Series, Static Shock, and Batman Beyond. The ultimate team up facing universal threats. What is the difference? Justice League focused on the main seven: Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash, Jon Stewart Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, and Martian Manhunter. The Unlimited series made the audience realize there were other heroes in the DC Universe. The main seven are there, but more focus was put on the others.

2: The Killing Joke: The FIRST Rated R movie in the DCAU, it adapted one of the best Batman graphic novels off all time. Some people were pissed that the first part was there. For those not aware, we had an intro with Batgirl. It was necessary. Batgirl hadn't been in ANY other DCAU movie... and she is integral to the Killing Joke story... anyway... I digress. This story centers around the now confirmed origin story for the Joker, and the One Bad Day. With a bonus of Kevin Conroy and Mark Hamill from Batman TAS doing their voices for Batman and Joker respectively.

And the Number One DC Animated Work is...

1: Batman the Animated Series: What else was it going to be? The definitive Batman animated series. Led to Superman TAS and Justice League. In the same "mood" as the Tim Burton movies. Dark, noir, moody, episodic. With the Batman/Joker duo of Kevin Conroy/Mark Hamill... that is STILL relevant today, even through the whole Arkham games trilogy. Even AFTER the weird animation switch, it was still entertaining. Plenty of guest voices, including Ron Perlman, Melissa Gilbert, and Roddy McDowell. Also... this series changed the COMICS forever in two HUGE ways: the debut of Harley Quinn AND changing Mr. Freeze into an antagonist that we can feel for. Plus that theme/intro... it is playing through my head right now... this spot also includes the movies "Mask of the Phantasm" and "Batman/Mr. Freeze: Sub-Zero".

There is the list. Did I miss any that you loved? I know a few I love didn't make the list. So I'm open to it. Tell me in the comments other DC animated series you love or DCAU movies you thought were awesome!

Share the post.

Share it.

Part 2 if this journey is down. Stay tuned for the next one.

Renewed Top 10 - DC Live Action Works

I have this big plan for some lists, and you all get to go on this journey with me.

This is the first of a series of lists, leading up to the Top 10 and Bottom 10 overall Comic Book movies toward the end of the Summer. So look forward to that, if you would.

The only way to get there is to take the first step.

So here... we... go...

This Top 10 list is going took at live action DC properties. Movies AND TV Shows. When it comes to DC vs Marvel, DC tend to have the animation down, but falters in the live action department. Even with that fact, DC HAS put out some wonderful live action stuff.

So I'm going to share with you my favorites.

Enjoy...

Top 10 DC Live Action Works

Here we go...

Honorable Mention 1: Batman (1966): The classic series made during the Silver Age of comics. Not violent if could help it. Overly cheesy. BIFF! BAM! SMACK! And it gave us the icon known as Adam West. That makes it great. RIP Mayor West.

Honorable Mention 2: Constantine (2014): This NBC series depicted John Constantine almost perfectly. Solidly paced... but some how it got cancelled after 1 season. Maybe because it was in a horrible TV spot(Dracula was put in the same spot... 1 season). But it made enough of an impact, at least Matt Ryan did, that this Constantine got an animated spin off, he was added to Legends of Tomorrow, AND Matt Ryan is the voice in the DC Animated Universe.

Honorable Mention 3: Superman & Lois (2021): The newest of the CW DC Series, it is a Superman game changer. Not an origin story for Superman. Set after Clark and Lois have teenage sons. Good story so far with so much potential. We will see if they don't screw that up.

10: Swamp Thing the Movie (1982): Directed by the Legendary Wes Craven(yes, THAT Wes Craven) pre-Freddy Krueger. This was campy... very campy. But it took a character that wasn't well known in the comics and turned it into a cult hit B movie series. I have very fond memories of watching this movie AND the series that followed. My uncle and I watched this. And... Dick Durock made it creepy.

9: Smallville: The DC CW series BEFORE The Arrowverse took shape. Follows Clark Kent through the formative teenage years. It had some low points, but Tom Welling and Michael Rosenbaum have the best Clark Kent/Lex Luthor dynamic I've seen in any Superman property. It also had a wonderfully fresh take on Doomsday... even if the suit they used sucked. I enjoyed the first 8 of the 10 seasons. Go check it out.

8: Batman (1989)/ Batman Returns: Tim Burton is famous for making dark moody movies. So here comes his take on Batman... who was dark and moody. But he had this idea. He took an actor famous for comedies and put him in the suit. Critics chided him for it. And... it worked. Still one of the most iconic Batman actors to this day. And I put both of his movies here because as awesome as Jack Nicholson was as The Joker, the Penguin/Catwoman dynamic was epic in the same ways.

7: The Flash series(2014): Here we have the show that turned CW's Arrow into the Arrowverse. I didn't know what to think about this show at first, but it turned out to be entertaining. Grant Gustin just... worked. And bringing in such a great actor like Tom Cavanaugh as Harrison Wells, a character they have molded into whatever they need to steal the show. I admit, I tapered off the show and I WANT to go back and catch up. But... the first 2 seasons were gold... so much so, I need to say this. The Flash Season 2 is my favorite season of any superhero TV show of all time. The villain Zoom is so well written, I'm glad I got to experience it.

6: Watchmen: Who Watches The Watchmen? I do. My favorite graphic novel of all time. Changed my way of thinking. It really did. So when I saw Zack Snyder was tackling it, I got excited. Perfectly cast across the board. Shot for shot ripped from the novel. But... in the graphic novel has 2-3 panels of Dr. Manhattan penis. Somehow, we got roughly 30 minutes of electric blue penis. Electric... blue... penis. Kudos to Billy Crudup... for... that.

5: Swamp Thing series (2019): I don't want to say too much, because this pissed me off. It was such a good series. Cut short due to money mismanagement. It was scary, the storytelling was better than solid. Perfect homage to the originals... but an even better homage to the comics. Worth the watch. I hope the CW experiement saves it.

4: Superman II Richard Donner Cut: Before pining for the Synder Cut was a thing, the Donner Cut was a reality. Christopher Reeve is an icon. And Superman made everyone believe a man could fly. But this sequel took everything that made the first movie great and made it all legendary. All because of a truly terrifying villain. General Zod. Terrence Stamp aggressively declaring "KNEEL BEFORE ZOD" is ingrained in our minds.

3: Joker: A artistic film representation of a man shit kicked by society's ascension into the Clown Prince of Crime. Noir without being noir. Smart without being too smart. And it doesn't hold your hand through exposition. Hints at something bigger, while still being VERY contained. Capped off by a performance by Joaquin Phoenix that got his that well deserved Oscar. This was a masterpiece of filmmaking. Watch it. But not for the kiddos.

2: The Dark Knight: The Nolan trilogy. Christopher Nolan, famous for his over the top fantasy style of film making decided to flip it... and make a Batman Trilogy that was very grounded in reality. Nearly everything in the trilogy was designed to make the viewer think it was possible in real life. Giving very real explanations for the tech. And of these movies, The Dark Knight was special. As amazing as the Joker movie was, this movie here gave us the definitive live action Joker performance. The movie is overall amazing, but Heath Ledger's Joker is THE reason to watch the movie(getting the Oscar for Supporting Actor for it)...... and even then, I would put Aaron Eckhart's performance at Harvey Dent/Two-Face over that. Yeah. I said it. That is how good those two were in this movie. And a testament to how great the movie was overall.

And the Number One DC Live Action Work is......

1: Zack Snyder's Justice League: So before anyone accuses me of being a Zack Snyder fanboy, he isn't even in my top 5 for directors. He is responsible for one of my least favorite movies of all time: Sucker Punch. But this... this was a cinematic masterpiece. The culmination of his vision, his hard work, the dedication of the fans wanting to see this come to fruition after the piss-poor Whedon Cut failed to satisfy us. We knew it could be more than it was. Then Warner announced it, gave extra money to Snyder to make it however. And what we got was 4 hours of a weaved story, doubling down on Ben Affleck being the best Live Action Batman... while introducing us to The Flash and Cyborg, making them MAJOR players... equals to the Trinity and Aquaman. Along with building a ferocious villain, and more than a glimpse of the end-all villain this one bends to knee to. Solid pace. Good story. And action sequences worth the wait. This is the pinnacle of what DC could be.

There is the list. Tell me what you think. Share it so others can tell me what they think. Any I might've missed? Have you own? Let me know in the comments.

Part 1 of many. So stay tuned.

2021 Preview - Pandemic Screwed It All Edition

Credit goes to the Late LEGENDARY Dave Fleischer, co-owner of Fleischer Studios, along with his older brother the even MORE LEGENDARY Max Fleischer. If you don't know who they are, look them up... you might find a piece of your childhood...

ON TO THE CONTENT!!!

Those of you who followed the old blog will remember that I used to do a preview post at the beginning of the year. Well, surprise... COVID... and the fact that I was still on "hiatus". But I restarted this blog due to wanting to perosnally... and that it feels like the movie theaters are starting to go back to normal. Finally. So I decided it was the perfect time to do a preview post. I kinna like the format of the Top/Bottom 10 lists, so this will be my Top 10 list for movies that I'm wanting to see for the remainder of this year.

Before we get to this list, I want to share something with all of you. I have been missing the feeling of going to the movies. I'm so glad I've been able to go again. But why did we have to get to this point? COVID...

Please. If you haven't gotten your Covid shots, go do so. If you aren't going to due religious reasons, health reasons, or personal reason... at least wear a mask. And if you can't or you refuse to do even that... please stay home until it is safe... and if you are petulant enough to whine about do this because you don't care about your fellow human being, bring it on!!! Meet you in the theater parking lot, bitch!!!!!

This isn't a political matter. This is a Protect our People matter. Democrat. Republican. White. Black. Latino. Straight. LGBT.(if there is anyone I missed, I'm sorry... trying to be inclusive) We are all a part of one of the greatest groups in the world... the audience. A light smattering of people? Cool. A packed theater? I miss those. My people. Our people. Don't ruin the experience for anyone else... or We the Audience will shank you...

Masks work. If you don't think they work, find one that works for you. That is what I had to do, took a few different ones to get the right one for function, comfort, and safety... and it will now be a part of my winter attire from now on(keeps my face so warm when it is cold outside!!!!!)

Sorry... I Digress...

Be safe. Play safe. Go the movies and stay safe. Be mindful of your movie neighbor... they better be mindful of you. And let's have safe trips to the movies!!!!! WATCH ALL DA MOVIES!!!

And Let's All Go To The Lobby!!!!

We are so close to getting things back. Don't screw it up...

Still with me? Good... let's get to it!!!

There is the "PSA". Now... for the list...

Enjoy.

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Here it is... the Preview Post for the rest of 2021. Any dates posted will be considered Tentative, just in case the stupidity spreads again(don't screw it up).

Honorable Mention 1: Black Widow - July 9th: Solo film starring the MCU's hot ginger assassin. This would go in the list, but pushing it back cause it to lose its luster for me. I still wanna see it. But it doesn't matter as much as it did.

Honorable Mention 2: The Matrix 4 - December 22nd: The 4th movie in a franchise that redefined what action should be. This doesn't make the list for a couple reasons. One, not sure if the date is staying in 2021. Two, not sure I wanted a 4th one. The last 2 were hot garbage... but they closed the story. But more of Keanu Reeves kicking ass? Okay... I will watch it.

Honorable Mention 3: No Time To Die - October 8th: What is supposed to be Daniel Craig's last James Bond movie. Honestly... I don't really care. Bond is beloved by so many, but I've never been a dedicated fan. There have been more stylised Agents/Assassin types in recent years... Jason Bourne and John Wick come to mind... but I am interested because Rami Malek is the Bond Villain, and Rami is one of my absolute favorite young actors. So... we will see.

10: Free Guy - August 18th: If you read my list about Movies Inspired by Video Games, I have higher hopes for this one. But I got all the synopsis wrong. Go watch the newest trailer. Oh... Ryan Reynolds.

9: Candyman - August 27th: One of the greatest horror/slasher franchises has come back from the dead. And this time, it looks like a better twist is coming(go watch the trailer). Also... bonus... Tony Todd is back. One of the creepiest voices in horror!!!

8: Spider-Man: No Way Home - December 17th: The 3rd of the MCU Spidey movies, this one is looking to be a greatest hits of sorts. Alfred Molina, Jamie Foxx, and Willem DaFoe are all back for this one. Villains from the others Spidey franchises. Hopefully this works out.

7: Halloween Kills - October 15th: Anticipated sequel of the long removed sequel of the original Halloween. This last one was so damn good, it was a nice surprise to find out we were getting TWO more. Well, one more after this one.

6: The Addams Family 2 - October 1st: Sequel to the amazing animated movie from a few years ago. Animation honoring Charles Addams work, voice cast filled with LEGENDS. The only issue I had with the first one was run time. It should've been longer. Here's to hoping this one is.

5: Venom: Let There Be Carnage - September 24th: Sequel to the unexpect hit featuring everyone's favorite black sludge... but without the Spidey connection. It was corny, cheesy, and funny. A welcome addition to the superhero genre. Tom Hardy nailed it... now... we add Woody Harrelson to the mix. I'm just hoping that Woody calls Tom "Dad" just one time. I NEED to hear it. If it happens... that movie instantly gets bonus points.

4. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings - September 3rd: Crounching Tony, Hidden Bucky!! The MCU is finally doing an Asian Martial arts film. Using a character with one of the weirdest(but unusable) origins. And we finally get the REAL Mandarin! Only downer is... Awkwafina. I know I had HIGH praise from her work in Raya and the Last Dragon. But... voice work. This isn't animated. So let's home she doesn't over do it.

3: The Suicide Squad - August 6th: The Non-Sequel, Non-Reboot directed by James Gunn. I love James Gunn. And this has a cast of characters that are even larger than life than the first movie. And with the spin off mini series coming, this could be a HUGE opportunity for John Cena. I really liked the first movie... even have respect for Leto's Joker. But this one looks like it will blow us all away.

2: Ghostbusters: Afterlife - November 11th: Loooooooooooong awaited sequel to the originals. No Egon, but we get his grandkids. And a Paul Rudd. Looking forward to this due to Ghostbusters being an AWESOME franchise, including two animated series AND one if the greatest movie tie-in games off time. Hopefully it doesn't break my heart. Another bonus... more Finn Wolfhard. He has a promising career left to go!

And my most anticipated movie for the rest of 2021......

1: Dune - October 1st: Technically, this a part one. But they haven't said that yet. But it is. Based off one of my favorite sci-fi book series. AND a remake of a LEGENDARY Sci-fi movie classic(with Sting too... the musician, not the wrestler). I honestly thought it would never get remade. But here we are. And I know alot of people are angry at the thought of movies getting remade("Why can't they come up with anything original?"). Hollywood comes up original movies. They still do. But sometimes... a remake is worth it. Maybe a movie would've been better with more polish special effects, for example. Our technology is MUCH different than it was when the original Dune movie was made. A remake takes NOTHING from the original and fans of the original. But a remake can introduce the stories to a new generation. A remake is a good thing about 98% of the time. And this one... will take the spice... because...

He who controls the spice controls the Universe!!!!!

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There is my list for movies I'm most looking forward to the rest of this year. There are a few more, but this is the list. Hopefully the dates stay the same...(don't screw it up).

Are there any I omitted that you want to see? Are there any on this list you are looking forward to? Please leave a comment. Share your thoughts. And Share this post.

There will be more content soon, so please stay tuned.

Hope to see you AT THE MOOOOOVIES!!!!!

P.S. Don't screw this up. Be safe. And enjoy the show...