As expected the San Diego Comic-Con has been the place to be for the latest scoop on any and all fan anticipated projects! Naturally
that means – Superhero Films!
There’s been a lot of Captain America promotion here. This concept art was released to wet fans appetites even more to see the shield
tossers big screen film (thanks to mikailusmaximus for giving me a heads up on it!). Here we see Cap in all his glory, standing tall in a
WWII battle.
Thoughts – I am very pleasantly surprised! You know, Cap can be such a hokey hero. Patriotic, Red, White, Blue, USA, USA, USA!
It can so easily come off looking so…..square. It might have worked during the 40’s where the American ideal was being fought for
and patriotism was something that kept people going, but obviously nowadays it’s not as prominent as back then. Don’t get me wrong
it’s still present, but in a time when most Americans are suspicious of its leaders and their own government is viewed as an enemy…..
well it’s a different world now.
So seeing a guy essentially wearing the American flag and fighting the good fight can seem hard to swallow.
With that said if this concept art is any indication, I think the film is headed in the right direction. I think starting the story during
WWII, if done right, can generate that enthusiasm for what the character represents and audiences will gladly be taken for the ride
thru the rest
of the film. The seemingly old-fashioned attitude will be understood and perhaps open up the idea that it’s still needed.
I’m starting to ramble here, so back to the picture – it looks cool. I like how Cap’s outfit looks. It’s not the typical straight translation
of the costume, but more a mashup with army fatigues. It’s still got all the trademarks to the character, the colors, the shield (there’s no
way they could ever change that!) and I like how even his mask looks to be a helmet with a strap. Plus, they’re not shying away from
him using a gun. It’s all looking good.
This potentially can be a truly epic origin story, similar to the original Superman film. Huge battles scenes in Europe, a story spanning
half a century and a character that will eventually become a lost soul out of his own time. It’s a great story to tell, I just hope that the
filmmakers take the time and energy to tell it the right way and not get ahead of themselves making a half-ass action film with the
simple goal of selling toys, setting up the already scheduled sequels and the big Avengers film. Right now all that is moot as far as
I’m concerned and will be all worthless unless the first film warrants returning to Cap’s story and getting us to want to see him again.
Sure Cap has already been decided to become a blockbuster series in the making, but I hope the filmmakers take the lesson of
Spielberg’s WWII classic Saving Private Ryan and – “earn this”.
OK Speaking Of Getting Ahead Of Ourselves...... AVENGERS ASSEMBLE!
Comic Con brought out the cast of The Avengers, due May 4, 2012. It's a long ways away, but this appearance by the cast sure does
gear you up in anticipation for it, which pretty much was the point of this.
So who do we have here - Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Clark Gregg (Agent Coulson of S.H.I.E.L.D.), Scarlett Johansson (Black
Widow),Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Chris Evans (Captain America), Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury), Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye), Mark
Ruffalo (Bruce Banner/Hulk), Joss Whedon (co-writer/director. Kevin Feige (Marvel Studios' President)
It's a pretty impressive cast. My only concern is that with all these characters running around will they be able to strike a balance to
give them each enough time to be more than just fleeting appearances, a quick action scene and recite a one liner. With Whedon
guiding the ship I have a optimistic feeling he will be able to juggle the large group in a way to show they are indeed a team with
their own personalrelationships between each other and they won't get all lost in the large scale action, which will surely be there.
Again, this isn't happening anytime soon, but it certainly gets you wondering what the film will be like when it's finally released. With
all the projects Marvel have been doing with their characters and the buildup that has slowly been leading to this all-star film, it makes
you wonder what the folks at DC are thinking and if this is finally going to get them motivated enought to say "hey we have our own
superheroestoo! Maybe we'll start making our own movies for them now and do something like this for a a Justice League of America
movie! Yeah, that sounds like a good idea!"
Our First Look At Ryan Reynolds As....
GREEN LANTERN!
The first long-awaited image of our big screen Green Lantern has finally
been released. Ryan Reynolds is goin’ green on the cover of Entertainment
Weekly. Fans are finally getting an idea of what the all-CGI Lantern suit will
look like. This is coinciding with some a first look at the film Green Lantern:
First Flight at San Diego’s Comic Con.
As predicted, all this Lantern news have sent fans into a frenzy. Discussing,
arguing and dissecting every image is now being done. Of course you didn’t
need to be the Amazing Kreskin to see that coming. Everyone has an opinion
and thoughts milling in their heads about what will surely be one of the most
anticipated superhero films next year.
So, personal reaction to this first image – honestly, I’m not sure. I am still not completely sold on the casting of Ryan Reynolds
for the role. My first reaction when I heard he was going to star I automatically thought ‘oh, so he’ll be Kyle Rayner….that might
work’. But when I learned he would be playing Hal Jordan I had to pause and got a feeling of uneasiness about it. I was never a
big fan of his and his past film performances haven’t exactly wowed me. I’m really hoping he’ll rise to the challenge for this one.
I’m trying to get used to the idea of Reynolds as Jordan and staying optimistic about everything, but so far him playing Kyle would
have been much easier for me to go along with.
Anyway, as for this CGI suit I’m feeling somewhat indifferent about it. I don’t hate, but I don’t love it either. It’s definitely got a
sci-fi look about it, which could work considering the Lantern will not be taking on your local bank robbers, but battling in outer
space with beings that are not from our universe and all that.
The classic white and green costume that the character wore in the comics would have unlikely worked as a direct translation for
film. So an update was probably necessary and it does accomplish the current trend of having our superheroes in darker attire then
their comic book counterparts. Let's face it - colorful spandex is not in vogue anymore and this design certainly seems to try to get
away from that and looks to be trying something new in that regard. It could be a lot of fun getting to see the green energy surge
through Hal's body everytime he uses his ring. Plus, this could be the first time we'll actually get to see a superhero put on his mask
and he'll have white colorless eyes just like in the comics!
I don’t like how the suit is looking like a one single piece….a green leotard.
Of course we’re only getting to see Ryan from just the waist up, but I hope he
has some boots and the uniform has more defined separations for pants, gloves
and all that. But it’s really difficult to see how this will work without seeing it in
motion. Worst case scenario is he could potentially look more appropriate to be in Tron.
Along with the Lantern image, we see Hal posing with his leading lady Carol
Ferris (played by Blake Lively). They’re in a very Superman-eque kind of pose.
Lively is looking pretty good here. I would definitely save her from distress!
I’m sure there will be more chatter regarding the film coming out of the Con in the
next few days. Hopefully, it will be encouraging and the wait fans have until the film’s
release on June 17, 2011 will be all worth it.
Meet Our New Spidey!
Well, Spidey fans finally got the official announcement of who will be
taking over the role of Peter Parker in Sony’s Spider-Man reboot –
Andrew Garfield.
I, like most fans probably, had the reaction of a question mark over my head,
a perplexed look and muttering, “Who?”
After a quick Google search on this guy I have to say I don’t know anything
about him at all. Apparently the one film he’s appeared in that I’m most
familiar with is The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus and I never even saw it.
So basically he’s going to be an unknown to most moviegoers. I don’t think
that’s necessarily a bad thing though. It could help Spidey fans accept him
as Peter in the film much easier than if he was better known and bringing
more baggage to the part. This could be a positive thing.
Christopher Reeve was barely known when he stepped into the role of Superman and we all know how he did.
As for acting, like I said I don’t know anything about him so I don’t have any thoughts about it. I would hope the filmmakers wouldn’t
have cast him if they didn’t think he could pull it off. The director Marc Webb commented, “Though his name may be new to many,
those who know this young actor’s work understand his extraordinary talents. He has a rare combination of intelligence, wit and
humanity. Mark my words, you will love Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker.”
We’ll get an early glance at his acting chops this fall when Garfield appears in David Fincher’s latest film The Social Network.
The one thing that surprises me about this announcement is that I would have predicted a younger actor would have been cast. This
reboot is supposed to explore Spidey’s early years, i.e. High school. Garfield is 27, the same age as Tobey Maguire was when he
was cast. Halfway through the first film Tobey had already graduated high school, so I’m wondering how long Garfield can look
convincing as a teenager. These films take a long time to make, so unless he maintains a youngish look, walking the cafeteria line
might get to be too big of a stretch to accept before too long. Let’s wait and see.
The Spider-Man Reboot, that will be in 3-D (no big surprise there, practically every film now uses that as an additional selling point)
is set for release in 2012.
Dark Knight Sequel News!
It's going to be a long wait, but the recent announcement of the
date of July 20, 2012
has given Bat Fans time to clear their schedules.
Christopher Nolan's followup to the Dark Knight has reserved
the date and will give audiences the answer to the big question
- will it come close to topping the satisfaction and business of
the 2008 mega-hit?
You know the anticipation and interest is high for a film when a
simple release date with no other piece of information is offered
and it still generates talk amongst superhero fans.
All we do know for now is that Christopher Nolan will be
returningto the directors chair. No news on the cast or story yet.
The summer of 2012 looks to be shaping up as a pretty superhero heavy film season. Along with Bats returning, fans will be treated to
seeing Marvels all-star, 'Avengers' film and Spider-Man in his new rebooted
franchise. Just those three entries alone make it look like a
much more interesting summer movie season than what we're getting this year.
SUPERHEROES!
They have become our modern day mythology. Characters with unique gifts who
embark onextraordinary adventures. They have become the stories of legend and
admiration. Devotion to them can border on obsession. Some fans know every
facet of information and piece of trivia about them, adorning themselves with tattoos,
t-shirts with logos, and costumes of their favorites. The ancient Greeks might have
been in awe of the worship we bestow on our Superhero Gods.
Fans follow the evolution of superheroes through comics, cartoons and now films.
Once upon a time motion pictures starring superheroes were the stuff of B-Movies;
silly pieces of tripe entertainment for children. Now these films have become their own genre. Superhero
Films have become tent pole events for studios and are anxiously awaited by fans.
They are no longer cheap productions with cardboard sets, but instead are big-budget extravaganzas starring respected actors and featuring talented directors at the helm.
Fans voice an opinion on everything from casting, costume design, to the story.
Everything is scrutinized with highexpectations. Comic Con, which was once a
handful of fans getting together to share their affection for comic books and the
characters, is now a Hollywood-wide industry event. Comic fans are now seen
as important audience members whose opinions matter and whose approval is
sought after, to generate positive buzz for the movies.
Since their inception in the late 30’S, early 40’s superheroes have dazzled fans.
Wowing themwith super cool ideas like how can someone possibly be able to
pick up car, bend steel or fly! Since then, with each passing generation, they have
recruited new followers and don't seem to begoing anywhere.
We’re now in the age of the Superhero Film. It took them awhile to catch up,
but Hollywood finally got it through their heads that if done right these characters
will draw audiences into the theater to marvel at their stories. If filmmakers do it
right, their reward is truckloads of cash and endless accolades for the filmmakers.
Done wrong…..well let’s just say Joel Schumacher might not be the most honored guest at a comic convention anytime soon.
So, here is an examination of the Superhero Film Genre, starting from its early beginnings. Consider
this an ongoing review series with thoughts and observations from a fellow Superhero Fan that will
examine ‘The Great’, ‘The Good’, ‘The Forgettable’and ‘The Downright Embarassing’.And maybe
even highlight some obscure film that most haven't even heard of.
Also examined will be superhero ventures into the world of television. Live action superhero
adventures were not only contained on the big screen, but for periods of time could be seen on a
weekly basis on the tube. While they may not technically qualify as 'films' I still think they're worth talking about and in some cases have become known as the quintessential presentation of some
characters.
The criteria of films/television covered is strictly at my discretion. Films that get bypassed could
easily be regarded as automatic inclusions in the list and vice versa, but everyone has an opinion
and fortunately for this series I get to make up the rules as to what gets covered and what doesn't.
Some might just get covered simply because it's close enough to be qualified as a Superhero Film
in my mind and it would just be fun to take a look at them, even if it might really be stretching things.
While others just didn't make the cut for various reasons.
Also, this project series is going in chronological order. I'm trying my best to keep things
somewhat consistent as to the release dates of the featured projects, along with any
information or trivia that is mentioned. I would like to be as accurate as possible, but if
there's a mistake anywhere along the lines, let me know. Plus, I'm not going to lie, there
is no timeframe as to when the next entry will be completed. These do take a bit of time
to put together and although I would like to finish them on a more consistent basis it's just not possible. It would be much easier if I had a Superhero Research Team to call upon.
So basically whenever I have some free time and get motivated is when the latest entry
will be done.
The most patriotic superhero makes it to the small screen in not one, but TWO television movies!
Steve Rodgers is given a real funky experimental serum and before he knows it he's the ultimate soldier. he rides his tricked out motorcycle stopping bad guys and saving the girls.
With Len Birman, Connie Selleca, Christopher Lee and Reb Brown in the starring role, how does 'Captain America' and 'Captain America II: Death Too Soon' hold up? Is all the criticism the films have gotten from fans warranted or are they simply misunderstood gems that were great for their time?
SUPERHERO FILMS
CHAPTER 11: 'Captain America'
CHAPTER 11: Part 2
CHAPTER 11: Part 3
SUPERHERO FILMS
CHAPTER 12: 'Legends of the Superheroes'
Whoa! Look who we have here - Batman, Robin, Green Lantern, Black Canary, Captain Marvel, Flash, Huntress, Hawkman all under one roof! No, it's not a movie. Nope, not even a television film, but......a variety speical....?
In 1979 Legends of the Superheroes showcases the most superheroes and super villians you could hope to find in one place! Produced by Hanna-Barbara, two one hour variety specials feature our heroes trying to stop a doomsday device and being the guests of honor at their very own suphero roast hosted by none other than Ed McMahon!
Heralding the return of Adam West and Burt Ward as the Dynamic Duo, along with Frank Gorshin as The Riddler, along with Mordru, Sinestro, Solomon Grundy and Giganta, I just have got to take a look at this thing!
Since starting this Superhero Series of mine it's been an ever expanding project that when I get the time a new entry is added. Entries are left up to me and I decide whether they qualify or not for the distinction to be included in this series.
CHAPTER 1 - SUPERMAN AND THE MOLE MEN (1951)- George Reeves stars as the Man of Steel in his first theatrical film. Well, it was technically a pilot movie to kick off the famous Superman television series. Reeves, along with Phyllis Coates stumble onto a story of a deep oil well with some really odd creatures making their way to the surface. Can Superman save the panic that is blanketing the small town?
CHAPTER 2 - BATMAN (1966) - Adam West and Burt Ward bring their popular dynamic duo to the big screen to stop the Joker, Riddler, Penguin and Catwoman from turning members of the United Nations to dust! Can this possibly be more serious and less camp than the television show.....not very likely.
CHAPTER 3 - RAT PFINK AND BOO (1966) - Practically no budget, heroes wearing pajamas, a dash of rock and roll songs and backyard sets equals this oddball entry into the superhero series.
CHAPTER 4 - DANGER DIABOLIK (1968) - Mario Bava's take an ultra cool look at the famous French comic book criminal. With very little money, a ton of creativity and the sexy Marissa Mell, John Phillip Law slips on the skin tight costume of Diabolik. Can a film that was roasted by Mystery Science Theater 3000 actually be any good?
CHAPTER 5 - BARBARELLA (1968)- Dino DeLaurentis attempts to bring the sci-fi sex vixen to the big screen. The era of psychedelic substances is on display and was guaranteed to give audienes a wild trip. Does angels, sex machines, killer dolls and a weightless striptease by Jane Fonda hold up or did you just have to be there?
CHAPTER 6 -WONDER WOMAN (1975) - Lynda Carter is given the golden lasso to the most famous female superhero ever. With Lyle Waggoner by her side she's ready to take television audiences on an adventure every week. While also accumulating a legion of young male fans and remain infatuated with her.
CHAPTER 7 - THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN (1977)- Marvel Comic's famous wall crawler gets his own television series. Nicholas Hammond stars as Peter Parker who after getting his radioactive spider bite takes on bad guys and wows the kids.
CHAPTER 8 - THE INCREDIBLE HULK (1978) - Marvel's big, angry, green guy is here in the form of Lou Ferringo and his alter-ego Bill Bixby. Dr. David Banner hits the road to search for a cure while helping guest stars every week.
CHAPTER 9 - DR. STRANGE (1978) - The Sorcerer Supreme gets a television pilot of his own to lead off his own series. Ooops nope, no series. So fans are just left with the pilot that recounts how Dr. Stephen Strange is introduced to the weird world that he's destined for.
CHAPTER 10 - SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE (1978) - An attempted big budget film about the Man of Steel hits theaters on his 40th anniversary. With a supporting cast that consists of Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman, Ned Beatty, Jackie Cooper, Glenn Ford and Valerie Perrine, the marketing for it assures us that we "will believe a man can fly". So, who do they have playing the leads? Apparently that actress from 'Sisters', Margot Kidder will be the Daily Planet reporter who always needs saving. And as for Clark Kent aka Superman, they got some guy by the name of Christopher Reeve.
CHAPTER 11 - CAPTAIN AMERICA (1979)-The most patriotic superhero makes it to the small screen in not one, but TWO television movies! Steve Rodgers is given a real funky experimental serum and before he knows it he's the ultimate soldier. With Len Birman, Connie Selleca, Christopher Lee and Reb Brown in the starring role, how does 'Captain America' and 'Captain America II: Death Too Soon' hold up? Is all the criticism the films have gotten from fans warranted or are they simply misunderstood gems that were great for their time?
CHAPTER 12 - LEGENDS OF THE SUPERHEROES (1979) - Hanna Barbera attempt to adapt their popular Super Friends cartoon to a live action format. The result has been probably the most bizarre, awkard and unsettling superhero projects ever. Which might explain why it's been hidden away since it first aired. Watching the two one hour episodes that were produced I try to make sense of it all while trying to hold onto my sanity.
CHAPTER 13 - HERO AT LARGE (1980) - Being an out of work New York City actor in 1980 isn't easy. You'll find yourself taking any job that will help pay the bills. Even standing outside movie theaters dressed as a superhero to help promote his latest big screen adventure.That's the setup to 1980's ' Hero At Large'. John Ritter stars as Steve Nichols the struggling actor who soon takes his role as the fictional superhero Captain Avenger a bit too far and who's antics will eventually create headlines and produce a wave of hope all over the city. Co-starring Anne Archer, Burt Convey and Kevin McCarthy, I take a look at what is still remembered as a favorite childhood film by the ones who saw it at the time.
What's happens to a rookie cop when he's accidently bombarded with a dose of red plutonium? Well, he gains superpowers of course! Which is exactly what happens to Officer Dave Speed. Unfortunately, there is a downside to his new abilities. Anytime he sees the color red his powers disappear. Seems logical right and the perfect setup for some comedy hijinks!
Starring Terence Hill and Ernest Borgnine, this low-budget, extremely odd film became a recurring fixture on HBO in the early 80's and eventually carved a place in the subconscious of the young viewers who ended up watching it during its hundreds of broadcasts.
I put on my nostaliga hat and revisit it to see if there is anything special about this little film or was it just a bargain basement deal HBO was able to get to fill airtime and subject their viewers to watch. Is it possible to ever get its theme song out of your head? What exactly are Dave's super powers? And how did Ernest Borgnine end up in this anyway??? There are so many questions......
