Podcast A Little Late

For the two of you who care, the podcast is going to be a little late this weekend, but I'm still planning to get it out! I'm, just not finished absorbing all the ComiCon coverage that I want to before talking about it on the podcast! Sorry for the delay!

Green Lantern: First Flight (DVD Movie Review)

After Lauren Montgomery's excellent "Wonder Woman" animated movie, I was excited to learn that she would be directing "Green Lantern: First Flight", which was released on Tuesday. Green Lantern is, without question, my favorite superhero of all time. Always has been. So I entered into my viewing experience with some "fanboy baggage", making every effort possible to have an open mind. I tried not be either too easily pleased or too easily offended by the choices made in this movie's production. But I'm still a Green Lantern geek, so bear that in mind however you wish.

The basic story revolves around Hal Jordan, a test pilot chosen to join an intergalactic peace-keeping force known as the Green Lantern Corps. Each Green Lantern is given a ring that allows them to create solid constructs made of green energy, formed by their imagination and given strength and substance by their force of will. Jordan proves to be a natural and even uncovers a plot to destroy the Green Lantern Corps.

The character designs (including the changes to the GL uniforms) were excellent with just the right amount of detail. The animation was great, combining traditional cell animation and computer animation with great effect. The energy constructs created by the rings were both cool and sometimes humorous. And Hal's first transformation into Green Lantern almost made me wet my pants. Visually, this movie is extremely enjoyable to watch.

The score contained a grand flavor with a hint of electronic edge. I do, however, wish they had used the Green Lantern musical theme from the Superman and Justice League animated shows. It was perfect for the mythos and they missed an opportunity to use it here. I don't recall the sound effects being anything special, though the movie sounds great in 5.1 with a good subwoofer!

As a fan of the tv show "Alias" (at least the first two seasons) I was thrilled to learn that Victor Garber would be voicing Sinestro. He brings a cold sophisticated quality to the role that couldn't be more appropriate. Though one or two lines of dialogue didn't seem to support this interpetation of the character. Still, a wonderful take on Sinestro. Garber brought to life the voice I've had in my mind for years of comic book reading. Christopher Meloni does a nice job with Hal Jordan, though this character could be voiced by any number of actors and come out fine. Tricia Helfer also did well, though didn't stand out as Boodikka. Part of the reason for this is because this version of the character had little resemblance to her comic book counterpart. Michael Madsen delivered a Kilowog that brought the comic character to life almost perfectly, though I wish we could have seen the character in his role of GL trainer in this film.

The story held my interest throughout and though the runtime clocks in at 77 minutes, I felt like I'd had a full feature experience by the end. The scripting and plotting is so tight. Nothing feels rushed, but no time is wasted. Very efficient storytelling. The "origin story" is dealt with almost completely before the opening credits even start, so the bulk of the movie is out in space with Hal as a newly established member of the corps. Though fans are familiar with Sinestro and his character development, they will see a take on the story that is both faithful and fresh. I was very pleased at the story elements that surprised me!

The extras on the 2-disc DVD were pretty good, though not the best I've seen on DC animated movies. Geoff Johns, current writer of Green Lantern and fanboy favorite, is featured in a few documentaries. The first is about "Blackest Night", a big event story currently running in DC comics. A nice feature, but not very informative. It's there mainly to get people to buy comics. Another feature on Sinestro was kinda cool, but what the set was missing was a historical documentary on the origin and development of Green Lantern. And given that Green Lantern has had very different incarnations between the Golden Age and Silver Age in comics, his origins and evolution would have made a very interesting documentary in my opinion. Add to that the fact that similar documentaries have been on the last three DC animated movie releases and I'm left feeling just a little let down.

In terms of relevance, this movie doesn't break any new ground. Themes of fascism and justice are present along with the age old question of "ends justifying the means", but none of these themes are presented in a way that will likely lead to meaningful conversation.

At the end of the day, this is an action packed, visually arresting flick that excites the imagination and leaves you feeling good at the end. For those not familiar with the concept of Green Lantern, this is a fun introduction to the mythos. For longtime fans it will likely scratch an itch they've had for years.



Quality: 8.5/10

Relevance: 6.0/10



Note: Since publishing this review, time and perspective have led me to reduce the Quality score from 9.0 to 8.5. The written review as it appears above still stands, but I believe a half point was added out of my nerdy enthusiasm for the Green Lantern property. Still a GREAT movie worth checking out!

Dan Didio Apologizes?

Between G4 and various online sources, I've been taking in as much SanDiego ComiCon coverage as possible. But so far, as a huge DC fan and one who hated "Final Crisis", the most interesting bit has been a near apology from Dan Didio for Grant Morrison's confusing, directionless "masterpiece".

He didn't actually come out and apologize for it, but considering that Dan Didio seems to be a ball of energy dedicated to living in denial of negative feedback (at least at convention panels) he came about as close to one as he ever has. (The exception being his admission to "Countdown's" less than stellar performance.)

But you be the judge. Check out this link and listen to an interesting, somewhat heated exchange he has with a fan and tell me what you hear... (listen from 26:00-29:40)

http://www.dccomics.com/media/podcasts/DCComics_2009-07-24_DC_Nation_Panel_at_SDCC_2009.mp3

Weirdness Review!

Over the last two years I've done my share of ranting, raving and reviewing. I'm featuring some of my more "lively" moments on the 100th episode of my podcast this weekend. So if you've enjoyed anything you've read here on a semi-regular basis, check it out this weekend at www.spiritblade.net/podcast!

Trying To Trick Me?

I think Warner Brothers is trying to milk me for cash. The director's cut of Watchmen came out yesterday. Knowing that the Ultimate Collector's Edition will arrive "in the fall", I was planning to avoid making a purchase now. The last season of Battlestar Galactica and the Green Lantern Animated movie are coming out next week, and I'm trying to save up for some other stuff in October.

But today I learned that a flyer inside copies of the director's cut gives 10 bucks off the price of the Ultimate Collection, which arrives not in "the fall" as stated earlier, but December! And based on the description given in the flyer, there seems to be no assurance that the director's cut will be included in that set, which means I may end up buying the director's cut eventually anyway.

To add to the whole mess, I can't find any rental stores that are renting out the director's cut. Just the theatrical version. It would seem that WB really wants to sell the director's cut to normal folks rather than video stores.

The first week sale price of the director's cut at Best Buy will vanish in a few more days. I have a decision to make. But will it be the right one...

"Harry Potter And The Obnoxious American"

So last night I dreamed I was hanging out with Harry, Hermione, Ron and some other students of Hogwarts. I had a burning question in mind and couldn't help but ask it.

"Okay, so I know you guys are having a great time playing with 'invisible cloaks' and funny 'magic potions'..."

I grabbed a wand from the kid next to me.

"And I know you're all probably just gonna think I'm an abnoxious American for asking this, but...Does anyone know the Latin for 'I am invincible, bwahahahaaa?' Seems like we could fix your problems a lot easier with a spell like that."

I was met with blank stares.

So I walked off with the wand taking various stabs at figuring out the Latin for my brilliant idea. (Yes, "Potter" fans, I'm sure it's more complicated than that.) I finally got it right and marched straight into Voldemort's middle eastern terrorist camp where he had kidnapped some baby. Bullet's and spells all bounced off me for a bit and then I grabbed the baby and walked out.

Tadaah! How's that for a magic trick?

Harry Potter And The Half-blood Prince (Movie Review)

Although I read and enjoyed the Harry Potter books, I'm not a fan by any means and ultimately have found the stories forgettable. Still, whenever a "Potter" movie comes out, I make it a priority to see it, as a fan of the fantasy genre. As the books and movies advanced, I've appreciated the darker, more mature themes and story elements and this movie was no exception.

Character performances were some of the best yet, as Harry, Ron and Hermione continue to grow, along with the actors portraying them. Though I'd imagine these actors would not be cast in their roles if the studio decided to find all new actor's today, their lack of the usual Hollywood polish almost serves as a reminder of what real kids are like at this age: A little awkward and lacking that artificial charm that embodies far too many characters in American films.

Since my memories of the book ar dim at best, I feel I can basically review this flick as a fresh observer. It had some wonderful effects put to good use and each scene held my attention. But the whole is somewhat less than the sum of it's parts. When the movie is over, I feel as though I really only needed to see the last 30 minutes or so. Though the love triangle subplots were carried out charmingly, they served no purpose in advances the overall "Potter Mythos". And despite the title of the film, the revelation of the identity of the "Half Blood Prince" seemed irrelevant. If the title were based on the events given focus in the film, I would rename it "Harry Potter And The Teenage Love Triangles Plus Somethin' Bad Happens Near The End".

Action was sparse in this flick, especially compared to the last two films in the series. Magic was also lacking. In many ways, this story could have been about normal kids. For a "fantasy" movie, it could have been much more "fantastic".

Virtually nothing of social, moral or cosmic relevance jumped out at me in this movie. I'd be surprised if viewing it led to any meaningful conversation afterward. From a "love potion theme in the film, someone might pull out a brief reference to love and it's difference from infatuation (which Hollywood and pop culture confuse a lot) but you'd have to work pretty hard to arrive at that topic after this movie is done.

In the end, I greatly hope for some deleted scenes on the DVD that focus on plot elements serving the greater narrative of the franchise. This movie does not stand well on its own. It starts in the aftermath of the last film and leans heavily into the next film. At least in the last 30 minutes or so.


Quality: 8.0/10

Relevance: 5.5/10

I'm A Black Lantern!!

Either because I'm a "boxholder", or because the guys at my comic shop have a little crush on me, I was given a replica Black Lantern ring with my issue of Blackest Night #1 today. Whatever the reason, I am now cosmically scary and all Lanterns must officially fear my power!!

Free Cool Online Stuff!!

An "e-buddy" of mine shared some cool free stuff to do/watch online and was kind enough to contribute them to my "Summer Of Free". I'd be a fool not to share these with you if you've never heard of them!

Chad Vader (The online series of Darth Vader's less charismatic brother, Chad, and his struggles as a day-shift manager) http://www.blamesociety.net/chadvader/index.php

Homestar Runner Hours upon hours of original and frequently updated cartoons . . . for those with quirky senses of humorhttp://www.homestarrunner.com/

Wowio Free books and comics online! There's some pretty terrible stuff, but in the comics section I recommend the following:-Of Bitter Souls (Dark Christian superheroes)-Lexian Chronicles-The Imaginaries-Pakkins' Land-Shadowmancer (Unfinished story!)-Smoke and Mirrorhttp://www.wowio.com

DC vs. Marvel An action figure parody series pitting DC characters against Marvel heroes.http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=ItsJustSomeRandomGuy&view=videos

UR Comics A free collection of online Christian comics. Including Archangels, Archangels: The Fall, and ArmorQuest.http://www.urcomic.com

Nathan James Norman (My "e-buddy's" personal website.) It includes a free comic blog, as well as an ongoing fantasy web-series of short stories called THE SHADE. (The first season is already completed.)http://www.nathanjamesnorman.com

No Blood!!

I was REALLY hoping to do a review of the live action "Blood: The Last Vampire" movie today, but it isn't playing in a single theater within a 200 mile radius of me! (Seriously, I checked.)

So although it opens today, it would appear it will be a very limited release unless the movie really takes off. Major bummer because the trailer looks awesome!

Knowing (DVD Movie Review)

I feel I need to formally apologize to any who might enjoy my reviews for having not seen this movie when it came out. When I saw previews for “Knowing” it looked interesting, but with “Push” in theaters at the same time, I only had so much time on my hands and chose to make room for the movie that looked more “sci-fi” oriented. I wish now I had seen this film instead of Push.

First, it’s directed by Alex Proyas (The Crow, Dark City) which would have put me in the theater on opening day if I had known that in advance. Second, it deals with so many relevant philosophical issues that I would have loved discussing it with others at the time of its release.

The movie is about a widower and his son who come across a page of numbers that signify future events. Throughout the movie they are on a race to solve the mystery of these numbers before the final “prophecy” is fulfilled. That’s the non-spoiler version and I greatly hesitate to say much more.

Nicholas Cage, an acquired taste for many, turns out a very good performance as a father and scientist. The child actor playing his son does a decent job, though not remarkable. The remaining cast is filled out by relative unknowns who all do adequate work, though Cage and the story are the true co-stars of this flick.

Though not an action movie, “Knowing” moves forward at a great pace and includes some of the best sequences of destruction I’ve ever seen. A particular airplane crash is incredible to watch and I’m sure my mouth was open most of the time.

Be forewarned that this movie does not end in the way you think it might. Like “Dark City”, this movie starts out as one kind of movie, and ends as something very different from what you may have rented it for. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it may be helpful to know that going in.

In terms of relevance to the important issues in life, this movie tackles, or at least references several. Is there a heaven? Does life have any purpose? Were we created by design or random chance? This movie not only implies these questions, it includes them in actual dialogue!

Although in a few lines, rational thinking is inappropriately contrasted with belief in the supernatural, the movie largely marries logical thinking and exploring the supernatural.

Cage’s character is the son of a pastor and has a strained relationship with his dad. Although the portrayal of his presumably Christian family gives off a somewhat traditional, stereotypical vibe, to the movie’s credit it did not go so far as to make Cage’s dad a clichéd cruel legalistic preacher. He seemed to genuinely want reconciliation with his son and the rift seemed to be the fault of Cage’s character. I found this genuinely loving, non-hypocritical example of a Christian family to be a nice change of pace in mainstream cinema.

Before I get into the philosophical/theological issues this movies plays with, I’ll sum up my review by saying that the movie is very enjoyable, though some may be disappointed with the ending. I’d recommend renting it, however, as it provokes a lot of thought on some of the most vital issues for humanity to ponder.

Quality: 8.5/10

Relevance: 9.0/10

Now, on to some of the thought-provoking issues in this movie. If you have not yet seen the movie, DO NOT read any further until you’ve have watched the entire film.


SPOILER WARNING--- SPOILER WARNING--- SPOILER WARNING



Although the movie ends with a somewhat clichéd use of aliens, I’m not confident we should see the “strangers” in that light. Based on the commentary for the DVD, Alex Proyas viewed the strangers not as necessarily as Aliens, but as possibly literal angels. He aimed to make the strangers natural forms look somewhere between alien and angelic so that the audience could make up their own mind.

So, although the film SEEMS to follow the old cliché of turning angels and biblical visions into descriptions of aliens that would falsify biblical claims, Proyas was not specifically aiming for this. Instead, he was actually trying to challenge our mental picture of what angels LOOK like, while not necessarily challenging what they truly are. His level of success depends on the viewer, but knowing this does put the movie in a different light.

A few quick theological/philosophical references:

According to Proyas, the strangers are based on the creatures in Ezekiel 1 and Revelation 4:7, though in these passages, the creatures serve the role of attendants to God’s throne and don’t necessarily have a connection to the end of the world.

The movie suggests a judgment on humanity. Near the end of the film, people everywhere are panicking, looting and behaving like animals, and the film seems to hint that it is just this kind of behavior that keeps any adults from being saved from the planet’s destruction.

In the final shot, there is a clear reference to the Garden of Eden and the Tree of Knowledge.

Despite several biblical references throughout the film, Proyas states in the commentary: “I was trying for a universal symbolic spirituality rather than anything specific.” He used Christian imagery because he believed that western audiences would immediately feel what he wanted them to, given that these ideas are “so ingrained in our minds”.

There’s a problem with this approach, however. The story makes the assumption that what it presents is compatible with the Bible, while it really isn’t. While there are several views on how the biblical “end times” play out, a complete, instant and global holocaust without any warning is not compatible with any well-supported scholarly view of the Apocalypse.

The writers have fallen into a typical mode when it comes to using biblical end-times prophecy or symbolic vision as a basis for storytelling. They’ve assumed that because prophecy is described in symbolic language, that any number of wild interpretations are equally valid or likely. However, by doing just a little research into ancient Jewish culture we can see what most prophetic symbols mean literally. Only in ignorance can we make biblical prophecies mean whatever we want. But this is usually the road that fiction writers take and “Knowing” is no exception.

I’m no expert in biblical prophecy, by any means, but even knowing the little I do makes the basis for fiction like this very flimsy and oddly unbelievable compared to the more researched elements of the film.

I might compare it to a musician watching a drama about musicians and in the movie it is explained that all musicians can play the piano. I suppose that the piano is a very common instrument that many musicians do play, so I can understand how someone might make that leap if they didn’t get out much, but…um…huh? Really? That’s a bit what these kinds of stories feel like to me.

Proyas touches on this some in the commentary. He acknowledges that he pulled a lot from Christian “mythology”, but he sees the “end-times” ideas conveyed in Christianity as “symbolic rather than specific” and drawing from a larger archetype.

The idea that all religions point to the same “higher truth” is a popular one, but it’s not an idea that supports itself with viable evidence. And arbitrarily viewing the Bible as symbolic and incomprehensible is a choice that makes no sense. But apparently it makes for good fiction. Still, can modern Americans tell the difference between an interesting, creative idea and an idea that is likely to be true? I’ve got my doubts.

Proyas makes it clear on several occasions that he wants his audience to interpret the movie how they would like to. He even says that he doesn’t absolutely know what’s happening at the climax of the film. (Really? Then why are you trying to tell me this story?) While there is room for this device in storytelling, and it does often make for thought-provoking fiction, it also caters to our desire to construct our own reality and pretend the world is whatever we want it to be. It’s one thing to enjoy this mental exercise in fictional entertainment, but it’s another to apply this kind of mentality to our view of reality, which we too often are guilty of doing.

“Knowing” is a fun ride and a cool flick, but it will likely be thought of as logically inconsistent by those with an interest in studying the Bible.

Off To Vacation!

Boy, it is really hard for me to "vacate". Especially when my vision for the future keeps expanding and I have so many plates to spin. My deadlines are all self-imposed, but that doesn't make them any less motivating. I hate to run off for a long weekend when my target release date for "Pilgrim's Progress" (September 1st) looms in front of me.

I'm also working on the page of our main site that will host the audio projects produced by The Spirit Blade Underground Alliance! (spiritblade.net/allianceinfo) Not to mention the Spirit Blade enhanced audiobook I'm more than halfway through recording and the upcoming 100th episode of the Spirit Blade Underground Podcast that I'm making preparations for. (spiritblade.net/podcast)

This is almost the worst time to be taking a vacation, but also probably the best. I'm no good for anything if I burn out. And I certainly need my play time. That's where I get all my ideas!

All that to say that we'll be leaving Friday morning and returning sometime on Monday. There will be no posts here Friday or Monday and I'm also taking this week off from the podcast.

Have a great 4th of July weekend and I'll catcha later!

-Paeter Frandsen

Prophecy Of The Heir

Prophecy of The Heir: Spec Book Trailer
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