Tony, you should be happy today because on The Batman this morning, Green "Hal" Jordan" Lantern is supposed to be the guest hero.
Too bad I have to wait thirty minutes to see it...
LOTSH just introduced Karate Kid MINUS cool costume yet...STILL NO MON-EL! X-(
I missed it! X-( I was busy with errands all morning and by the time I got home, it had already played in my area. I saw some stills online and it looked really good. I'll have to wait for the rerun; or when they get around to releasing this 5th season on DVD I'll probably just buy that as it has a ton of great episodes.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
Here's an interview that Ray Stevenson gave Wizard Magazine on the upcoming film PUNISHER: WAR ZONE
Just in case you have trouble pulling this up, here's the article:
MEET THE NEW PUNISHER: RAY STEVENSON
In an exclusive interview, the former ‘Rome’ star talks about stepping into the ‘War Zone’
By Chris Ward
Posted December 7, 2007 5:00 PM
Screw rays of light—what comic movies need is a Ray of darkness.
2008’s “Punisher: War Zone” from Lionsgate introduces Ray Stevenson as the third—and darkest—Punisher to ever explode on the big screen.
The actor best known for playing Titus on HBO’s “Rome” hopes to bring the same bloodthirsty brutality to Marvel’s favorite one-man army, Frank Castle.
“We’re going to have him in such a dark place,” declares Stevenson in a leathery English baritone, speaking to Wizard from the Montreal set, “and exacting so many acts of violence upon the irredeemable. Not to take away from anything Tom Jane has done, and I think that [previous] movie stands up on its own, but my take will be different. It’s a newer, darker version.”
Here’s what you need to know about Ray Stevenson and the new, improved Punisher.
DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK After a bevy of script rewrites, directorial changes and the Punisher himself, Thomas Jane, dropping out of “Punisher 2,” a new direction was taken: Napalm everything and just start over. So forget all you know about Dolph Lundgren’s mumbling and John Travolta getting dragged behind a car—“War Zone” is a fresh start.
“This is in no way to be seen as ‘Punisher 2,’ or even ‘Punisher 3,’” says Stevenson. “It’s going full-on for the Garth Ennis and Tim Bradstreet take on Frank Castle. We’re staying very, very true to the authenticity of the comic books. The whole look of the film, the mise en scène, has that light and dark, harsh sodium colors. Frank Castle is definitely the predator.”
THE PLOT THICKENS “Punisher: War Zone” may start the franchise from scratch, but don’t expect yet another lengthy origin yarn—the bullets start flying before you can say, “Duck, bitches!” In “War Zone,” Frank Castle is already on the feds’ Most Wanted List, having disposed of hundreds of scumbags. So when he accidentally kills an innocent and inadvertently creates his archenemy, Jigsaw, by turning a mobster’s face into scrambled eggs, you could say Frank’s not exactly batting 1,000 at the film’s start. But with the odds on his side (in the form of unlimited ammo), Frank sets out to make things right his way.
THE JIG IS UP It looks like Jigsaw from Lionsgate’s “Saw” franchise is going to have some company on the backlot. For the first time, Punisher’s sewn-together archnemesis Jigsaw (aka Billy the Beaut, before he eats a faceful of glass) appears with brother Looney Bin Jim in tow. Baddies like the Kitchen Irish are also pulled right from Garth Ennis’ series, as well as several “amalgamations” of Punisher cretins, according to Stevenson. “Garth’s exposé of the human condition, for an actor, is phenomenal,” says Stevenson. “So we’re really going for the genius of Ennis [in this film]. We are definitely capturing the soul and the essence of it.”
KICK ARSE ARSENAL “War Zone” is a unique film, in that the Punisher lets his trusty slingshot do the talking. We’re lying, of course: Stevenson has so many weapons in the new film that even Charlton Heston might say, “Eaaasssy there, pal!”
“We’ve got a very, very specialized hand cannon—possibly the meanest piece of weaponry I’ve ever seen,” smiles Stevenson. “It’s a Smith & Wesson .50-caliber handgun. Forget your .44 Magnum, this will stop a tank.” Through working and training with members of the Marine Corps, Stevenson cites the military as being instrumental in designing new weapons for the film. “We’ve designed a very special knife for Frank, loosely based on some weaponry the boys doctored for themselves in Vietnam,” says Stevenson. “He’s not there to knife fight with people when he pulls this out. It takes people apart.”
DANGEROUS DIRECTION When you’re making a movie about an ass-kicking antihero, why not put an ass-kicking director at the helm? Director Lexi Alexander knows a thing or two about how violence should really look: She’s also a world-champion kickboxer. “She’s got the mind of a warrior, the mind of a fighter,” says Stevenson. “She knows what it’s like to stand toe-to-toe with somebody and know they’re going to try to hit you as hard as they possibly can, and you’re not there to f--- about—so she knows it when she sees it.” Still, Stevenson reiterates that “War Zone” is not a “martial arts movie,” even though Frank Castle will be forced to put his street-fightin’ skills to the test. “Frank’s not a poser. He’s not there to d----swing and threaten people,” asserts Stevenson. “When he turns up, he exacts his own brand of vengeance. He’s not there to intimidate you by saying, ‘My gun’s bigger than your gun.’ He’s just there to put you out of everyone else’s misery.”
I like the sound of this. I'm glad they've taken a step away from the last film. I think it's the right thing to do with a new leading man. I have to admit, I had no idea Lexi Alexander was a woman. ) She sounds interesting.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
Going over the last few pages of this thread it is obvious comic book movies are very popular. Last night while seeing National Treasure I saw a trailer for Hancock, which appears to be Will Smith as some sort of super hero. Is that a super hero/comic book I am unfamiliar with? My families consensus was that it didn't look too good.
Also, for some reason when I was kid the Speed racer cartoons gave me the creeps. Don't know why, but they did. I could never watch them.
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
I never got Speed Racer either, Barry. Didn't creep me out...I just could never get interested.
Thanks for 'Punisher' find, Rogue {[] Can't wait for that one B-)
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Many thanks, JD! That is one dandy trailer, and the movie looks to have what I liked about the first--incredible visuals and a great sense of humor. My oh my, 2008 looks to be a good year!
Cool. I can hear the narrator's deep monotone and the theme music playing from that one.
It would be a great homage to have that reporter guy (McGee)who was on Banner's trail in this. B-)
I'm really rooting for this film to be very good seeing that I'm one of a few who actually enjoyed the '03 version that gets ripped by naysayers at the very mention of bringing it up.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Cool. I can hear the narrator's deep monotone and the theme music playing from that one.
It would be a great homage to have that reporter guy (McGee)who was on Banner's trail in this. B-)
I'm really rooting for this film to be very good seeing that I'm one of a few who actually enjoyed the '03 version that gets ripped by naysayers at the very mention of bringing it up.
Boy that image brings back memories; definitely harkens back to the old TV show, although I guess this means we can definitely kiss the gamma ray bomb good-bye.
The opening credits narrator on the old show was none other than Ted Cassidy (aka Lurch of The Addams Family); he also did the voice of Galactus for the 60's Fantastic Four cartoons.
The reporter was played by Jack Colvin; sadly, he passed away in 2005. I'm sure they'll be able to fit Stan Lee and Lou Ferrigno in there somewhere though.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
I know that polls are never an exact science because all of the variables that can come into play as time goes along but Superherohype.com is currently asking which film/s are most viewers eager to see this year. Pretty sure this will fluctuate a little more before it's done. Here are the current results:
Out of the following 2008 movies, which are you anticipating the most?
The Dark Knight 73.3%
Iron Man 14.4%
The Incredible Hulk 4.2%
Dragonball 4.1%
Punisher: War Zone 1.8%
Hellboy II: The Golden Army 1.7%
Hancock 0.3%
Speed Racer 0.3%
Wanted 0.0%
Total votes: 662
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
Well this sort of gave me a little hope when it comes to Superman. Nothing iron-clad but...
Superman, Justice League & Batman Rumblings
Source: Variety January 3, 2008
Anne Thompson at Variety has posted some interesting things about the "Superman" franchise, new Justice League movie and third Batman pic:
Speaking of DC Comics pics, it is highly unlikely that Bryan Singer will return to shoot the next Superman movie. (The director is finishing up Tom Cruise's Nazi film Valkyrie, and prepping The Mayor of Castro Street). The next Superman we will see on the big screen will not be Brandon Routh, but a younger Superman among a cast of youthful superheroes in The Justice League. That movie will likely not be shot, however, until after the WGA strike is resolved. Warners is so happy with Dark Knight that their fondest hope is that Nolan will return to do another Batman.
While none of this is official, stay tuned for more on these projects!
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Variety is a pretty reliable source; I think you can stop having nightmares about Singer directing another Superman movie.
I also think its a pretty safe bet that we won't be hearing much about Superman Returns II or JLA until after this writers strike is resolved. Without a serviceable script to work with, there's not much they can do. If the actors union goes on strike in the spring (and that's looking more and more likely) it may be a very loooong time before we hear any more about those movies.
As to the strike itself, I think the writers union should start re-thinking their strategy and demands as nobody really seems to be missing their contributions all that much so far.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
As to the strike itself, I think the writers union should start re-thinking their strategy and demands as nobody really seems to be missing their contributions all that much so far.
Funny you should mention that since my son and I were talking recently on how much studios were going to charge for abbreiviated seasons once they become available on DVD...and if people will actually care to spend their money buying them.
With reality tv being the norm nowadays, perhaps the writers should consider going back to the drawing board...
As for Supes, as long as Singer's chances of returning are doubtful, it's positive news. B-)
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
Depending on how Iron Man will turn out (which pretty much is a shoe-in to be a hit), director Jon Favreau may want to throw his hat into another Marvel Comics venture:
Favreau Interested in Directing Avengers
Source: MTV January 3, 2008
MTV has posted a new interview with Iron Man director Jon Favreau, who says he would be interesting in helming an Avengers movie. The catch is that Marvel wants to wait until each character has their own movie first. The good news, however, is that they want to use the actors that are starring in the individual movies:
...Favreau insists that Marvel will only go ahead with the project if and when all the individual characters get their own story. It'll be worth the wait, Favreau claimed, calling this way not only more impressive and formidable – but more consistent as well.
"I wonder if the tone of 'The Incredible Hulk' is going to be similar or different than ," Favreau questioned. "And 'Captain America' is a twinkle in Marvel's eye right now. And 'Thor' and 'Ant Man.'
"[But] in the case of Marvel they're pretty clear on wanting to do it with the actors who've established the roles or to not do it at all. That's what they've said to me," he continued.
And particularly TonyDP may not like this bit of news:
Routh Out of Superman Sequel, Too?
Source: Latino Review January 4, 2008
Not long after we mentioned this article from Variety stating that Bryan Singer is highly unlikely to direct the Superman Returns sequel, Latino Review posted more possible bad news for the second film -- Brandon Routh may not return either as Clark Kent/Superman.
According to the site, the actor that lands the Superman role in George Miller's Justice League will go on to star in a separate Superman movie as well.
Again, none of this is official until the studio actually confirms or denies these rumors (about both Singer and Routh), so it will be a wait-and-see game for now.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
I think that's great news about Singer and Routh not returning for the next Superman movie. Whilst I can understand their desire to pay homage to the Richard Donner / Christopher Reeve Superman films, I felt that Superman Returnswas a poor effort, as we've already seen that kind of film. They could've done a Casino Royale and created someone brilliantly new with the character. Hopefully a new director and actor will create something watchable.
Drawn Out Dad.
Independent, one-shot comic books from the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia.
twitter.com/DrawnOutDad
LoeffelholzThe United States, With LovePosts: 8,998Quartermasters
Depending on how Iron Man will turn out (which pretty much is a shoe-in to be a hit), director Jon Favreau may want to throw his hat into another Marvel Comics venture:
Favreau Interested in Directing Avengers
Source: MTV January 3, 2008
MTV has posted a new interview with Iron Man director Jon Favreau, who says he would be interesting in helming an Avengers movie. The catch is that Marvel wants to wait until each character has their own movie first. The good news, however, is that they want to use the actors that are starring in the individual movies:
...Favreau insists that Marvel will only go ahead with the project if and when all the individual characters get their own story. It'll be worth the wait, Favreau claimed, calling this way not only more impressive and formidable – but more consistent as well.
"I wonder if the tone of 'The Incredible Hulk' is going to be similar or different than ," Favreau questioned. "And 'Captain America' is a twinkle in Marvel's eye right now. And 'Thor' and 'Ant Man.'
"[But] in the case of Marvel they're pretty clear on wanting to do it with the actors who've established the roles or to not do it at all. That's what they've said to me," he continued.
I think this is excellent news, and as usual the Marvel folks seem to have a better handle on managing the extended properties than the DC/Warner people. Imagine an Avengers movie starring Robert Downey, Edward Norton...and whomever they cast as Steve Rogers...? I'm dying to find out who lands that role...
Check out my Amazon author page!Mark Loeffelholz
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Depending on how Iron Man will turn out (which pretty much is a shoe-in to be a hit), director Jon Favreau may want to throw his hat into another Marvel Comics venture:
Favreau Interested in Directing Avengers
Source: MTV January 3, 2008
MTV has posted a new interview with Iron Man director Jon Favreau, who says he would be interesting in helming an Avengers movie. The catch is that Marvel wants to wait until each character has their own movie first. The good news, however, is that they want to use the actors that are starring in the individual movies:
...Favreau insists that Marvel will only go ahead with the project if and when all the individual characters get their own story. It'll be worth the wait, Favreau claimed, calling this way not only more impressive and formidable – but more consistent as well.
"I wonder if the tone of 'The Incredible Hulk' is going to be similar or different than ," Favreau questioned. "And 'Captain America' is a twinkle in Marvel's eye right now. And 'Thor' and 'Ant Man.'
"[But] in the case of Marvel they're pretty clear on wanting to do it with the actors who've established the roles or to not do it at all. That's what they've said to me," he continued.
You have to hand it to Marvel; they really have their ducks pretty well lined up when it comes to these comics adaptations; unlike the morons at WB, who don't seem to have a clue as to how to get their properties going.
And particularly TonyDP may not like this bit of news:
Routh Out of Superman Sequel, Too?
Source: Latino Review January 4, 2008
Not long after we mentioned this article from Variety stating that Bryan Singer is highly unlikely to direct the Superman Returns sequel, Latino Review posted more possible bad news for the second film -- Brandon Routh may not return either as Clark Kent/Superman.
According to the site, the actor that lands the Superman role in George Miller's Justice League will go on to star in a separate Superman movie as well.
Again, none of this is official until the studio actually confirms or denies these rumors (about both Singer and Routh), so it will be a wait-and-see game for now.
Well, this should all be taken with a grain of salt; after all, this is the same site that said Matt Damon was going to be Captain Kirk and Leonardo DiCaprio was going to be Aquaman.
Still, if it's true then my only disappointment is that Routh is being thrown under the bus with Singer; he's guilty by association and that's too bad. Routh did a creditable job, given how little he actually had to do on the film. Singer is the one who botched it up by dropping the ball on so many elements: the rehashed story, a lousy Lois Lane, the kid, the poorly realized love triangle, etc. If anyone should be thrown into a rocket and blasted out into outer space it's Singer.
Not that the suits at WB are any better; clearly they still don't understand why Superman Returns was a disappointment, and they seem determined to turn JLA into Metropolis 90210.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
The one thing that erks me about DC is how they seem to leave their entities seperate as if they're in their own little worlds.
I mean mentioning other characters or cities in their current formats isn't enough for me, actually seeing the crossover is how it should be done no matter how glancing. Even if there was just a Clark Kent: reporter cameo in the TDK, I would love that. I have never understood why Warner elects to take such a conservative approach when they have a wide array of variables here...
I love DC but man, Warner Brothers are stubborn! X-(
Kudos to Marvel for "getting it". Here's a probability we just might see:
How is Tony Stark in The Incredible Hulk?
Source: Ain't It Cool News January 5, 2008
Ain't It Cool News has posted a rumor about how the Iron Man/The Incredible Hulk cross-over might work (Possible Spoiler Ahead!):
So the scene that was shot was for the Hulk with General Thunderbolt who is very important to the Hulk. Anyway, Tony Stark meets with him - which of course is a straight prelude to the Avengers Movie.
Iron Man director Jon Favreau stayed mum on the subject in yesterday's interview with MTV.
This move if accurate, certainly helps The Incredible Hulk's chances of being better. B-)
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
Well...it may end up being Routh anyway in the next Supes installment. Crazy thing about rumors... I for one am hoping that the "Singer maybe not coming back" one holds firm.
Just say something and commit to it, Warner. It makes you come off as discombobulated.
Brandon Routh Still the Man of Steel?
Source: Ain't It Cool News January 5, 2008
According to this report at Ain't It Cool News, Brandon Routh will still play the Man of Steel in the stand-alone "Superman" franchise. It is still unknown whether Bryan Singer will return to direct the Superman Returns sequel.
This possibly debunks yesterday's rumor that Warner Bros. was going to cast the actor who will play Superman in Justice League in a separate movie down the line.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Well...it may end up being Routh anyway in the next Supes installment. Crazy thing about rumors... I for one am hoping that the "Singer maybe not coming back" one holds firm.
Like I said, you take these rumors with a grain of salt. Between the writers strike now going on and the potential actors strike coming in a few months, it will be a while before another Superman movie sees the light of day, regardless of who directs it.
Looks like the JLA movie is also in serious danger of being delayed or possibly even scrapped altogether as some of the suits at WB seem to be rethinking the timing of the movie given the imminent arrival of Batman: The Dark Knight. Smart move if you ask me; they really ought to look at Marvel's long term game plan for their Avengers movie.
Looks like the JLA movie is also in serious danger of being delayed or possibly even scrapped altogether as some of the suits at WB seem to be rethinking the timing of the movie given the imminent arrival of Batman: The Dark Knight. Smart move if you ask me; they really ought to look at Marvel's long term game plan for their Avengers movie.
I don't think that this project will get axed entirely but I'm glad that the suits at Warner are reassessing their options thanks to the writers' strike.
I'd rather that they took their time and get this right than sandlot it and it turns out to be complete garbage.
I have a feeling that the stike will be resolved in time for shooting so I hope that in the meantime, their ducks are properly in a row. B-)
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
Marvel has posted images of some of their merchandising for the upcoming Iron Man & Hulk movies. B-)
It pretty clear that they're targeting kids; I wonder if Burger King or McDonald's can be far behind?
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
edited January 2008
Alot of you may not care for this but I'll post it anyway for those who care about the comics. First Marvel kills off Captain America and now this; I'd better call my co-worker and make sure he hasn't killed himself over this bit of news. )
Comic fans fume as Marvel erases Spidey-MJ marriage
By David Colton, USA TODAY
Those who know Spider-Man only from Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst in the movies might be surprised to learn that in the comic book, the web-spinning hero has been married for almost 21 years.
That's why the comic world is in an uproar over Marvel Comics' decision to undo the marriage of Peter Parker and red-haired bombshell Mary Jane Watson, reversing two decades of storytelling.
In Amazing Spider-Man #545 last week, Peter and Mary Jane make a tearful deal with the devil-like character Mephisto: In exchange for saving Aunt May's life, Mephisto erases all traces of the Peter-Mary Jane marriage from memory.
In the issue out this week, subtitled Brand New Day, Peter Parker returns to his roots — young, nerdy and single. Aunt May is alive and well and Mary Jane is again just part of the cast. The marriage never happened.
"People are very upset. They erased a lot of stuff that had been set in stone," says John Newman, manager of Ultimate Comics in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Wednesday as customers came in to buy the opening chapter of Brand New Day. To help emphasize the new start, Amazing Spider-Man will go thrice-monthly.
"We knew it would be a very controversial thing to do," says Joe Quesada, Marvel's editor in chief, who believed so much in the project that he drew the crucial issues himself. "Looking into the future, this is really the right thing to do for the long-term health of the character."
Spider-Man, created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in 1962, was a hit, connecting with young readers because he was a geeky teenager, shy with girls and uncertain of how to use his powers. But in 1987, Peter and Mary Jane, by then a fashion model, got married. Marvel had instant regrets.
"I remember editors and editors in chief lamenting that a married Spider-Man was not where we want to be," Quesada says. "A married Peter Parker makes for a less interesting soap opera than a single Peter Parker going about his nerdy kind of life."
Writers tried everything: The couple separated for a while. She miscarried. And in a much-criticized story line, Marvel tried to convince readers that Peter Parker had not gotten married, but his clone. That didn't stick, either. Then Quesada took over and insisted the marriage just couldn't continue.
"Nobody wants to read about a married Spider-Man," says Craig Shutt, a columnist for Comics Buyers Guide. "But in the short run, it's a terrible idea. It disrespects the readers by saying everything they read is wrong."
At DC Comics, Superman is married to Lois Lane, disrupting that title's long-standing tensions. DC declined to comment for this story.
Quesada is steadfast that for Spider-Man, the move is the right one: "Ultimately we have to do this to keep this character fresh for this generation and generations to come."
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Alot of you may not care for this but I'll post it anyway for those who care about the comics. First Marvel kills off Captain America and now this; I'd better call my co-worker and make sure he hasn't killed himself over this bit of news. )
) ) ) The House of Bad Ideas strikes again! You'd better put your fanboy friends on suicide watch. What was their reaction to this?
For what it's worth, I never cared for the notion of Spiderman getting married in the first place. Same goes for Superman as I thought that domesticating him was a bad movie. These heros work best for me when they work alone without having to concern themselves with the more mundane tasks like fending off that alien invasion by 5:00pm so they can have dinner with the in-laws.
Still, after 21 years, it's a little late to be having second thoughts like this. The way the marriage is undone is also typically gutless, cheap and dramatically unsatisfying, pretty much negating the last 21 years of Spiderman stories - pretty much what I expect from Joe Quesadilla these days. If Marvel heroes have to deal with real life problems, why not just kill off MJ or have them get a divorce - like real people do. Much cleaner and less complicated. Of course, this way, if the sales plummet and they get cold feet, they can just have Dr. Strange cast another spell to undo the one that undoes the marriage.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
) ) ) The House of Bad Ideas strikes again! You'd better put your fanboy friends on suicide watch. What was their reaction to this?
He and the other guy, during a break, were trying to call Marvel in New York, via cellphone and complain about this as if that's going to help. I really worry for those kids. )
You didn't know that he had an Aunt May statue on his desk last month? That in itself is frightening. )
For what it's worth, I never cared for the notion of Spiderman getting married in the first place. Same goes for Superman as I thought that domesticating him was a bad movie. These heros work best for me when they work alone without having to concern themselves with the more mundane tasks like fending off that alien invasion by 5:00pm so they can have dinner with the in-laws.
Still, after 21 years, it's a little late to be having second thoughts like this. The way the marriage is undone is also typically gutless, cheap and dramatically unsatisfying, pretty much negating the last 21 years of Spiderman stories - pretty much what I expect from Joe Quesadilla these days. If Marvel heroes have to deal with real life problems, why not just kill off MJ or have them get a divorce - like real people do. Much cleaner and less complicated. Of course, this way, if the sales plummet and they get cold feet, they can just have Dr. Strange cast another spell to undo the one that undoes the marriage.
This is a very good point. I was never for any of the main staples in comics - Batman, Supes & Spidey being domesticated. It should never, ever happen but in defense of my nerd co-workers, this particularly is a dumb move. Why just have peter & MJ just split up for her having an affair or something. Much, much easier to soak in than using Mephisto in such a ridiculous plot...
...and now that I think of it...didn't that old bag die outright in Amazing Spider-Man #400? I remember buying that book. She's already re-booted in the Ultimate universe, why keep such a give-or-take character on life support? They keep throwing her into the Lazurus Pit!
Marvel, movie-wise, has made some great strides lately but some of their decisions for their periodicals bear questioning. I'm still mad that they killed off Cap and the Tony Stark that I grew up with is just too unbearable to read now. I mean I really don't like him.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
He and the other guy, during a break, were trying to call Marvel in New York, via cellphone and complain about this as if that's going to help. I really worry for those kids. )
I almost fell out of my chair when I read this. )
You didn't know that he had an Aunt May statue on his desk last month? That in itself is frightening. )
Terrifying is more like it. Who in their right minds would pay money something like that? Here's an Aunt May Action Figure I googled for your friends to invest in )
...and now that I think of it...didn't that old bag die outright in Amazing Spider-Man #400? I remember buying that book. She's already re-booted in the Ultimate universe, why keep such a give-or-take character on life support? They keep throwing her into the Lazurus Pit!
I even remember an issue of Wizard dedicated to all the reasons they wanted Aunt Mae dead. They did kill her off a while ago. No idea how she was brought back. And come to think of it, I don't want to know. After 40 years, I really don't know what she can bring to these books.
Marvel, movie-wise, has made some great strides lately but some of their decisions for their periodicals bear questioning. I'm still mad that they killed off Cap and the Tony Stark that I grew up with is just too unbearable to read now. I mean I really don't like him.
I'd say Marvel has had some really bad editors in chief for the last 20 years or so. Every time I look in on the book, I see some nonsense - Spider clones, characters being killed off left and right, good guys going bad. It sounds more like pro wrestling that the comics I grew up with. I really don't read their books anymore. It's pretty funny actually that the movies are getting it right while the books flounder. At some point, sales will fall again and they'll have to do another major cleanup. Sad thing is, its really gotten so bad that they'll need a Crisis-like reset and reboot of everything to clean this mess up.
RogueAgentSpeeding in the Tumbler...Posts: 3,676MI6 Agent
My God that's disturbing. I would not be surprised if he didn't have that already - not in the least bit. )
I have looked all over for that statue online but I remember seeing ads for it coming out on the back of boxes on some of the action figures I've bought my son some years ago.
The articulation on her wrinkles makes her look more like Silvermane than Aunt May. )
I think he took it home because he was tired of the office traffic constantly asking who she was or just snickering at it as they passed his desk. He did say that it was a Limited Edition piece.
Outright homely.
Mrs. Man Face: "You wouldn't hit a lady? Would you?"
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice isUNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Comments
I missed it! X-(
Just in case you have trouble pulling this up, here's the article:
MEET THE NEW PUNISHER: RAY STEVENSON
In an exclusive interview, the former ‘Rome’ star talks about stepping into the ‘War Zone’
By Chris Ward
Posted December 7, 2007 5:00 PM
Screw rays of light—what comic movies need is a Ray of darkness.
2008’s “Punisher: War Zone” from Lionsgate introduces Ray Stevenson as the third—and darkest—Punisher to ever explode on the big screen.
The actor best known for playing Titus on HBO’s “Rome” hopes to bring the same bloodthirsty brutality to Marvel’s favorite one-man army, Frank Castle.
“We’re going to have him in such a dark place,” declares Stevenson in a leathery English baritone, speaking to Wizard from the Montreal set, “and exacting so many acts of violence upon the irredeemable. Not to take away from anything Tom Jane has done, and I think that [previous] movie stands up on its own, but my take will be different. It’s a newer, darker version.”
Here’s what you need to know about Ray Stevenson and the new, improved Punisher.
DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK
After a bevy of script rewrites, directorial changes and the Punisher himself, Thomas Jane, dropping out of “Punisher 2,” a new direction was taken: Napalm everything and just start over. So forget all you know about Dolph Lundgren’s mumbling and John Travolta getting dragged behind a car—“War Zone” is a fresh start.
“This is in no way to be seen as ‘Punisher 2,’ or even ‘Punisher 3,’” says Stevenson. “It’s going full-on for the Garth Ennis and Tim Bradstreet take on Frank Castle. We’re staying very, very true to the authenticity of the comic books. The whole look of the film, the mise en scène, has that light and dark, harsh sodium colors. Frank Castle is definitely the predator.”
THE PLOT THICKENS
“Punisher: War Zone” may start the franchise from scratch, but don’t expect yet another lengthy origin yarn—the bullets start flying before you can say, “Duck, bitches!” In “War Zone,” Frank Castle is already on the feds’ Most Wanted List, having disposed of hundreds of scumbags. So when he accidentally kills an innocent and inadvertently creates his archenemy, Jigsaw, by turning a mobster’s face into scrambled eggs, you could say Frank’s not exactly batting 1,000 at the film’s start. But with the odds on his side (in the form of unlimited ammo), Frank sets out to make things right his way.
THE JIG IS UP
It looks like Jigsaw from Lionsgate’s “Saw” franchise is going to have some company on the backlot. For the first time, Punisher’s sewn-together archnemesis Jigsaw (aka Billy the Beaut, before he eats a faceful of glass) appears with brother Looney Bin Jim in tow. Baddies like the Kitchen Irish are also pulled right from Garth Ennis’ series, as well as several “amalgamations” of Punisher cretins, according to Stevenson. “Garth’s exposé of the human condition, for an actor, is phenomenal,” says Stevenson. “So we’re really going for the genius of Ennis [in this film]. We are definitely capturing the soul and the essence of it.”
KICK ARSE ARSENAL
“War Zone” is a unique film, in that the Punisher lets his trusty slingshot do the talking. We’re lying, of course: Stevenson has so many weapons in the new film that even Charlton Heston might say, “Eaaasssy there, pal!”
“We’ve got a very, very specialized hand cannon—possibly the meanest piece of weaponry I’ve ever seen,” smiles Stevenson. “It’s a Smith & Wesson .50-caliber handgun. Forget your .44 Magnum, this will stop a tank.” Through working and training with members of the Marine Corps, Stevenson cites the military as being instrumental in designing new weapons for the film. “We’ve designed a very special knife for Frank, loosely based on some weaponry the boys doctored for themselves in Vietnam,” says Stevenson. “He’s not there to knife fight with people when he pulls this out. It takes people apart.”
DANGEROUS DIRECTION
When you’re making a movie about an ass-kicking antihero, why not put an ass-kicking director at the helm? Director Lexi Alexander knows a thing or two about how violence should really look: She’s also a world-champion kickboxer. “She’s got the mind of a warrior, the mind of a fighter,” says Stevenson. “She knows what it’s like to stand toe-to-toe with somebody and know they’re going to try to hit you as hard as they possibly can, and you’re not there to f--- about—so she knows it when she sees it.” Still, Stevenson reiterates that “War Zone” is not a “martial arts movie,” even though Frank Castle will be forced to put his street-fightin’ skills to the test. “Frank’s not a poser. He’s not there to d----swing and threaten people,” asserts Stevenson. “When he turns up, he exacts his own brand of vengeance. He’s not there to intimidate you by saying, ‘My gun’s bigger than your gun.’ He’s just there to put you out of everyone else’s misery.”
http://www.wizarduniverse.com/magazine/wizard/006621923.cfm
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
She's pretty hot too, J.D. Also, she a black belt champion. So rest assured, the action & violence in this film won't be powdered down... B-)
Here's a pic of Ron Perlman in the new Hellyboy 2:
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
And here's the trailer Hardy. Looks very promising. {[]
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=fWvpuwatbJM
Also, for some reason when I was kid the Speed racer cartoons gave me the creeps. Don't know why, but they did. I could never watch them.
Thanks for 'Punisher' find, Rogue {[] Can't wait for that one B-)
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
Many thanks, JD! That is one dandy trailer, and the movie looks to have what I liked about the first--incredible visuals and a great sense of humor. My oh my, 2008 looks to be a good year!
http://www.superherohype.com/imageGallery/Hulk/The_Incredible_Hulk/The_Movie/Movie_Stills/Movie_Stills_2.jpg
seeing that chair makes me feel like a kid again!
www.scottacademymartialarts.co.uk
Cool. I can hear the narrator's deep monotone and the theme music playing from that one.
It would be a great homage to have that reporter guy (McGee)who was on Banner's trail in this. B-)
I'm really rooting for this film to be very good seeing that I'm one of a few who actually enjoyed the '03 version that gets ripped by naysayers at the very mention of bringing it up.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Boy that image brings back memories; definitely harkens back to the old TV show, although I guess this means we can definitely kiss the gamma ray bomb good-bye.
The opening credits narrator on the old show was none other than Ted Cassidy (aka Lurch of The Addams Family); he also did the voice of Galactus for the 60's Fantastic Four cartoons.
The reporter was played by Jack Colvin; sadly, he passed away in 2005. I'm sure they'll be able to fit Stan Lee and Lou Ferrigno in there somewhere though.
Out of the following 2008 movies, which are you anticipating the most?
The Dark Knight 73.3%
Iron Man 14.4%
The Incredible Hulk 4.2%
Dragonball 4.1%
Punisher: War Zone 1.8%
Hellboy II: The Golden Army 1.7%
Hancock 0.3%
Speed Racer 0.3%
Wanted 0.0%
Total votes: 662
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Superman, Justice League & Batman Rumblings
Source: Variety January 3, 2008
Anne Thompson at Variety has posted some interesting things about the "Superman" franchise, new Justice League movie and third Batman pic:
Speaking of DC Comics pics, it is highly unlikely that Bryan Singer will return to shoot the next Superman movie. (The director is finishing up Tom Cruise's Nazi film Valkyrie, and prepping The Mayor of Castro Street). The next Superman we will see on the big screen will not be Brandon Routh, but a younger Superman among a cast of youthful superheroes in The Justice League. That movie will likely not be shot, however, until after the WGA strike is resolved. Warners is so happy with Dark Knight that their fondest hope is that Nolan will return to do another Batman.
While none of this is official, stay tuned for more on these projects!
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
I also think its a pretty safe bet that we won't be hearing much about Superman Returns II or JLA until after this writers strike is resolved. Without a serviceable script to work with, there's not much they can do. If the actors union goes on strike in the spring (and that's looking more and more likely) it may be a very loooong time before we hear any more about those movies.
As to the strike itself, I think the writers union should start re-thinking their strategy and demands as nobody really seems to be missing their contributions all that much so far.
Funny you should mention that since my son and I were talking recently on how much studios were going to charge for abbreiviated seasons once they become available on DVD...and if people will actually care to spend their money buying them.
With reality tv being the norm nowadays, perhaps the writers should consider going back to the drawing board...
As for Supes, as long as Singer's chances of returning are doubtful, it's positive news. B-)
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Favreau Interested in Directing Avengers
Source: MTV January 3, 2008
MTV has posted a new interview with Iron Man director Jon Favreau, who says he would be interesting in helming an Avengers movie. The catch is that Marvel wants to wait until each character has their own movie first. The good news, however, is that they want to use the actors that are starring in the individual movies:
...Favreau insists that Marvel will only go ahead with the project if and when all the individual characters get their own story. It'll be worth the wait, Favreau claimed, calling this way not only more impressive and formidable – but more consistent as well.
"I wonder if the tone of 'The Incredible Hulk' is going to be similar or different than ," Favreau questioned. "And 'Captain America' is a twinkle in Marvel's eye right now. And 'Thor' and 'Ant Man.'
"[But] in the case of Marvel they're pretty clear on wanting to do it with the actors who've established the roles or to not do it at all. That's what they've said to me," he continued.
And particularly TonyDP may not like this bit of news:
Routh Out of Superman Sequel, Too?
Source: Latino Review January 4, 2008
Not long after we mentioned this article from Variety stating that Bryan Singer is highly unlikely to direct the Superman Returns sequel, Latino Review posted more possible bad news for the second film -- Brandon Routh may not return either as Clark Kent/Superman.
According to the site, the actor that lands the Superman role in George Miller's Justice League will go on to star in a separate Superman movie as well.
Again, none of this is official until the studio actually confirms or denies these rumors (about both Singer and Routh), so it will be a wait-and-see game for now.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Independent, one-shot comic books from the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia.
twitter.com/DrawnOutDad
I think this is excellent news, and as usual the Marvel folks seem to have a better handle on managing the extended properties than the DC/Warner people. Imagine an Avengers movie starring Robert Downey, Edward Norton...and whomever they cast as Steve Rogers...? I'm dying to find out who lands that role...
"I am not an entrant in the Shakespeare Stakes." - Ian Fleming
"Screw 'em." - Daniel Craig, The Best James Bond EverTM
You have to hand it to Marvel; they really have their ducks pretty well lined up when it comes to these comics adaptations; unlike the morons at WB, who don't seem to have a clue as to how to get their properties going.
Well, this should all be taken with a grain of salt; after all, this is the same site that said Matt Damon was going to be Captain Kirk and Leonardo DiCaprio was going to be Aquaman.
Still, if it's true then my only disappointment is that Routh is being thrown under the bus with Singer; he's guilty by association and that's too bad. Routh did a creditable job, given how little he actually had to do on the film. Singer is the one who botched it up by dropping the ball on so many elements: the rehashed story, a lousy Lois Lane, the kid, the poorly realized love triangle, etc. If anyone should be thrown into a rocket and blasted out into outer space it's Singer.
Not that the suits at WB are any better; clearly they still don't understand why Superman Returns was a disappointment, and they seem determined to turn JLA into Metropolis 90210.
I mean mentioning other characters or cities in their current formats isn't enough for me, actually seeing the crossover is how it should be done no matter how glancing. Even if there was just a Clark Kent: reporter cameo in the TDK, I would love that. I have never understood why Warner elects to take such a conservative approach when they have a wide array of variables here...
I love DC but man, Warner Brothers are stubborn! X-(
Kudos to Marvel for "getting it". Here's a probability we just might see:
How is Tony Stark in The Incredible Hulk?
Source: Ain't It Cool News January 5, 2008
Ain't It Cool News has posted a rumor about how the Iron Man/The Incredible Hulk cross-over might work (Possible Spoiler Ahead!):
So the scene that was shot was for the Hulk with General Thunderbolt who is very important to the Hulk. Anyway, Tony Stark meets with him - which of course is a straight prelude to the Avengers Movie.
Iron Man director Jon Favreau stayed mum on the subject in yesterday's interview with MTV.
This move if accurate, certainly helps The Incredible Hulk's chances of being better. B-)
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Just say something and commit to it, Warner. It makes you come off as discombobulated.
Brandon Routh Still the Man of Steel?
Source: Ain't It Cool News January 5, 2008
According to this report at Ain't It Cool News, Brandon Routh will still play the Man of Steel in the stand-alone "Superman" franchise. It is still unknown whether Bryan Singer will return to direct the Superman Returns sequel.
This possibly debunks yesterday's rumor that Warner Bros. was going to cast the actor who will play Superman in Justice League in a separate movie down the line.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Like I said, you take these rumors with a grain of salt. Between the writers strike now going on and the potential actors strike coming in a few months, it will be a while before another Superman movie sees the light of day, regardless of who directs it.
http://movies.ign.com/articles/844/844152p1.html
I don't think that this project will get axed entirely but I'm glad that the suits at Warner are reassessing their options thanks to the writers' strike.
I'd rather that they took their time and get this right than sandlot it and it turns out to be complete garbage.
I have a feeling that the stike will be resolved in time for shooting so I hope that in the meantime, their ducks are properly in a row. B-)
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
It pretty clear that they're targeting kids; I wonder if Burger King or McDonald's can be far behind?
http://www.superherohype.com/news/topnews.php?id=6673
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
Comic fans fume as Marvel erases Spidey-MJ marriage
By David Colton, USA TODAY
Those who know Spider-Man only from Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst in the movies might be surprised to learn that in the comic book, the web-spinning hero has been married for almost 21 years.
That's why the comic world is in an uproar over Marvel Comics' decision to undo the marriage of Peter Parker and red-haired bombshell Mary Jane Watson, reversing two decades of storytelling.
In Amazing Spider-Man #545 last week, Peter and Mary Jane make a tearful deal with the devil-like character Mephisto: In exchange for saving Aunt May's life, Mephisto erases all traces of the Peter-Mary Jane marriage from memory.
In the issue out this week, subtitled Brand New Day, Peter Parker returns to his roots — young, nerdy and single. Aunt May is alive and well and Mary Jane is again just part of the cast. The marriage never happened.
"People are very upset. They erased a lot of stuff that had been set in stone," says John Newman, manager of Ultimate Comics in Chapel Hill, N.C., on Wednesday as customers came in to buy the opening chapter of Brand New Day. To help emphasize the new start, Amazing Spider-Man will go thrice-monthly.
"We knew it would be a very controversial thing to do," says Joe Quesada, Marvel's editor in chief, who believed so much in the project that he drew the crucial issues himself. "Looking into the future, this is really the right thing to do for the long-term health of the character."
Spider-Man, created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko in 1962, was a hit, connecting with young readers because he was a geeky teenager, shy with girls and uncertain of how to use his powers. But in 1987, Peter and Mary Jane, by then a fashion model, got married. Marvel had instant regrets.
"I remember editors and editors in chief lamenting that a married Spider-Man was not where we want to be," Quesada says. "A married Peter Parker makes for a less interesting soap opera than a single Peter Parker going about his nerdy kind of life."
Writers tried everything: The couple separated for a while. She miscarried. And in a much-criticized story line, Marvel tried to convince readers that Peter Parker had not gotten married, but his clone. That didn't stick, either. Then Quesada took over and insisted the marriage just couldn't continue.
"Nobody wants to read about a married Spider-Man," says Craig Shutt, a columnist for Comics Buyers Guide. "But in the short run, it's a terrible idea. It disrespects the readers by saying everything they read is wrong."
At DC Comics, Superman is married to Lois Lane, disrupting that title's long-standing tensions. DC declined to comment for this story.
Quesada is steadfast that for Spider-Man, the move is the right one: "Ultimately we have to do this to keep this character fresh for this generation and generations to come."
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
For what it's worth, I never cared for the notion of Spiderman getting married in the first place. Same goes for Superman as I thought that domesticating him was a bad movie. These heros work best for me when they work alone without having to concern themselves with the more mundane tasks like fending off that alien invasion by 5:00pm so they can have dinner with the in-laws.
Still, after 21 years, it's a little late to be having second thoughts like this. The way the marriage is undone is also typically gutless, cheap and dramatically unsatisfying, pretty much negating the last 21 years of Spiderman stories - pretty much what I expect from Joe Quesadilla these days. If Marvel heroes have to deal with real life problems, why not just kill off MJ or have them get a divorce - like real people do. Much cleaner and less complicated. Of course, this way, if the sales plummet and they get cold feet, they can just have Dr. Strange cast another spell to undo the one that undoes the marriage.
He and the other guy, during a break, were trying to call Marvel in New York, via cellphone and complain about this as if that's going to help. I really worry for those kids.
You didn't know that he had an Aunt May statue on his desk last month? That in itself is frightening.
This is a very good point. I was never for any of the main staples in comics - Batman, Supes & Spidey being domesticated. It should never, ever happen but in defense of my nerd co-workers, this particularly is a dumb move. Why just have peter & MJ just split up for her having an affair or something. Much, much easier to soak in than using Mephisto in such a ridiculous plot...
...and now that I think of it...didn't that old bag die outright in Amazing Spider-Man #400? I remember buying that book. She's already re-booted in the Ultimate universe, why keep such a give-or-take character on life support? They keep throwing her into the Lazurus Pit!
Marvel, movie-wise, has made some great strides lately but some of their decisions for their periodicals bear questioning. I'm still mad that they killed off Cap and the Tony Stark that I grew up with is just too unbearable to read now. I mean I really don't like him.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -
I almost fell out of my chair when I read this.
Terrifying is more like it. Who in their right minds would pay money something like that? Here's an Aunt May Action Figure I googled for your friends to invest in
I even remember an issue of Wizard dedicated to all the reasons they wanted Aunt Mae dead. They did kill her off a while ago. No idea how she was brought back. And come to think of it, I don't want to know. After 40 years, I really don't know what she can bring to these books.
I'd say Marvel has had some really bad editors in chief for the last 20 years or so. Every time I look in on the book, I see some nonsense - Spider clones, characters being killed off left and right, good guys going bad. It sounds more like pro wrestling that the comics I grew up with. I really don't read their books anymore. It's pretty funny actually that the movies are getting it right while the books flounder. At some point, sales will fall again and they'll have to do another major cleanup. Sad thing is, its really gotten so bad that they'll need a Crisis-like reset and reboot of everything to clean this mess up.
My God that's disturbing. I would not be surprised if he didn't have that already - not in the least bit.
I have looked all over for that statue online but I remember seeing ads for it coming out on the back of boxes on some of the action figures I've bought my son some years ago.
The articulation on her wrinkles makes her look more like Silvermane than Aunt May.
I think he took it home because he was tired of the office traffic constantly asking who she was or just snickering at it as they passed his desk. He did say that it was a Limited Edition piece.
Outright homely.
Batman: "The Hammer Of Justice is UNISEX!"
-Batman: The Brave & The Bold -