Welcome to the Movie Show, today is a pretty awesome show Tom Cruise’s ‘American Made’ comes out this week, ‘The Hero’ starring Sam Elliott is on iTunes, and Managing Editor of Monkeys Fighting Robots Larry Taylor has some movie news for us.
Strap yourself in buckaroos! Episode 133 of the MOVIE SHOW by Monkeys Fighting Robots is here.
Episode Breakdown:
02:48 – ‘American Made’ Review
16:07 – ‘The Hero’ Review
28:24 – Movie News with LarryTaylor
Thank you for listening!
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Do you have a question that you would like answered during the show? Email your questions to matt@popaxiom.com.
Never heard of Matt Sardo? For starters, he made the Kessel Run in less than 11 parsecs. Prior to that, he gave Doc Brown the idea for the flux capacitor and led the Resistance to victory over SkyNet – all while sipping a finely crafted IPA. As a radio host, he’s interviewed celebrities, athletes and everyone in between. He’s covered everything from the Super Bowl to Comic-Con.
Denis Villeneuve is arguably the hottest director going right now. At least for a certain cross section of film geekdom. His long-gap sequel Blade Runner 2049 will be here in a week, and is getting rave reviews. Now, he might have his next project lined up, a remake of Cleopatra.
Deadline has the report that Sony is circling the filmmaker to remake the infamous Elizabeth Taylor classic, which has just as a rich history behind the scenes as it does on the screen. It was a dull, big-budget flop in 1963, despite the fact it was domestically the highest-grossing film of that year. The film was more popular because of the affair between Taylor and Richard Burton, which broke up their other marriages. Cleopatra deserves a remake, and even though a female director would probably be a better move here, Denis Villeneuve is just too hot a commodity to ignore at the moment.
A who’s who of directors have been circling this new Cleopatra for several years, and at one time Angelina Jolie was in discussion to play the titular queen. It will be interesting to see if Jolie comes on board, and what sort of magic her and Villeneuve can work.
Cartoons and Anime are for everyone, but some think they are only for children – why is this?
Recently, a notable user on Twitter made some incredibly discourteous comments regarding people who like these mediums. I’m not going to attack them; To fight this battle, one has to look at the content of the argument.
Essentially, the point being presented is that, if one has a passion for animation like cartoons and Anime, that they’re a “loser.” No logical or rational argument is presented, it’s simply an attack on those who find interest in those things. To small minds that can’t fathom attraction to things outside of their own, no information is needed. Thankfully, however, a majority of the normal population doesn’t agree with this. That said, to those that do listen to people like that – stop it. Negativity isn’t necessary, especially in the context of things we love!
It’s evident that children are into things with vibrant colors and easy to understand messages, but that doesn’t mean every cartoon or Anime follows this trend. If anything, Anime is a medium directed at an older audience, as it tackles darker, heavier themes not seen in your typical American cartoon. To understand where I’m coming from, here are a few examples.
Let’s look at director Hayao Miyazaki’s work; he is most famous for films like Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke, and both of these motion pictures have themes that successfully transcend the screen and can be applied to everyday life. Mononoke specifically tackles issues regarding the environment and its preservation. At a time when the debate surrounding climate change is at an all-time high, this film is perfect for watching for fantastical perspectives on what we are dealing with today. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying a movie like this, no matter what any pathetic figures on Twitter say.
Stepping away from Anime for a bit, let’s look at something like Superman: The Animated Series. Everyone wants to be Superman, literally everyone. If you don’t, you’re lying to yourself. This program from the 1990s is one of the greatest on-screen interpretations of the character audiences have ever seen. The Man of Steel is a role model for millions of people around the world, as he is, to some, the person they strive to be like. It’s impossible to be Kal-El, no one denies that. However, it’s completely possible to derive messages from the show and act upon them in your daily life: help others, do the right thing, and treat people how you’d like to be treated are some of the prominent messages that Superman tries to follow. If someone who’s battling a form of depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness finds hope within a show like this, why should someone else see the need to bring them down?
Ultimately, what we find pleasure in is on us. If you’re not harming others, no one’s opinion on your methods of relaxation should impact how you feel about yourself. If Anime and cartoons are your thing, keep enjoying them. There’s nothing wrong with anybody enjoying the mediums, and there never will be.
Whenever I think of my favorite films of all time, I have trouble with it. I always end up thinking of movies that either came before or after the year of my birth. I can’t be blamed for such thoughts, it’s hard to find flicks that top the likes of Jurassic Park or Toy Story. However, when I began to think about it more, some of the movies that really stuck with me over the years just so happened to end up being released the same year I was born. While these films may not push through cinematic barriers, these are stories that inspire faith, hope, redemption, and family.
Forrest Gump
FORREST GUMP 1994
The titular character’s adventures of this comedy-drama have always fascinated me, even after watching it several times in my life. This simple man was told that he wasn’t going to amount to much after tests show he was below average intelligence. As his stories unfold, we see this simple man end up at the center of some critical historical moments. We even watch him set the path for how this history plays out. This journey, while fictional, is something to be inspired by.
Angels in the Outfield
Continuing on the theme of inspiration, this film showed me what the power of faith has over people, both figuratively and literally. Angels in the Outfield might not have the highest score on Rotten Tomatoes, but it has something that I don’t see often with the live action movies of Disney nowadays: Heart. While some might see the movie as a cheesy flick to distract the kids, I see it as a story that can transcend any generation to bring the message of faith.
The Shawshank Redemption
This film was my first step into the world of Stephen King. While it might not be as horrific as other adaptations, this struck a chord with me. Despite all the torment and tragedy that Andy Dufresne had to go through, it was his will and hope that kept him sane in his years at Shawshank. The film shows that the human spirit will always be the strongest element in anyone, both real or fictional. It’s something we can all hope to achieve.
The Santa Clause
I don’t think it’s a stretch to say that people have that one Christmas film that defines the holiday season for them. For me, it’s this famous Disney movie. The film shows that the greatest part of the holidays is the bond of family. Along with the messages the performances of the entire cast, including the fantastic Tim Allen, are fantastic. It’s a film I’m always ready to pop in during the Christmas season.
The Lion King
Even the mention of the title returns my mind to the opening of this phenomenal piece of animation. The beautiful colors, the crisp art, the compelling story; there are many reasons to love this film. Watching it I experienced my first heartbreaking moment, my first comedic side characters, and the first time I ever considered f the concept of good versus evil. It’s a film that still stands over other Disney flicks to this day.
Gary Oldman has, tragically, never won an Oscar. It’s not the biggest of deals, but the guy has been incredible for so many years and a chameleon in so many genres and roles, you would think he’d have gotten closer. Darkest Hour, his new Winston Churchill biopic, might push him across that line.
Darkest Hour could be seen as a sort of companion piece to Dunkirk, especially since the siege itself is mentioned in this trailer. Check it out:
A thrilling and inspiring true story begins on the eve of World War II as, within days of becoming Prime Minister of Great Britain, Winston Churchill (Academy Award-nominee Gary Oldman) must face one of his most turbulent and defining trials: exploring a negotiated peace treaty with Nazi Germany, or standing firm to fight for the ideals, liberty and freedom of a nation. As the unstoppable Nazi forces roll across Western Europe and the threat of invasion is imminent, and with an unprepared public, a skeptical King, and his own party plotting against him, Churchill must withstand his darkest hour, rally a nation, and attempt to change the course of world history.
It looks thrilling and Oldman looks and sounds terrific as Churchill. Early buzz is solid, so we’ll see what happens when Darkest Hour opens November 22.
Keanu Reeves is gearing up for John Wick 3, which will undoubtedly be called John Wick: Chapter Three, and People magazine had a terrific idea that Reeves wholeheartedly agreed with: bring Tilda Swinton on board.
In the People interview, Kara Warner brought up the idea of having the Oscar winner and newly minted genre master join the already tremendous cast of talent. Reeves thought the idea was as great as literally everyone else in the world:
“You know, I had the chance to work with her — I was in two films with her but had the chance to work with her once — I’m onboard with that. We run into each other once in a while socially out there in the world. She’s a remarkable person and actress, so I’m all aboard with that!”
If there’s anyone who can make this happen, it would certainly be John Wick himself. Adding Swinton as some sort of supreme villain or, hell, any kind of eccentric character somewhere in this world is nothing but a positive idea.
This is dream casting hopefully coming to fruition right before our eyes. John Wick 3 will hit theaters and conclude Reeves’ best trilogy (yup) on May 17, 2019. You gonna check it out or nah?
Marvel Legacy is finally here! The “rebirth” of the entire line of Marvel comics, bringing us into a new era that is supposed to return the line to its former glory. There’s a lot to unpack, so let’s dive in!
***SPOILERS LIE AHEAD***
Writer Jason Aaron takes us from one million years ago to today, all to examine what a hero’s legacy is. First introducing us to the Avengers of the Stone Age, we take a journey throughout all of the 616 as the entire universe gets a course correction.
One thing Legacy managed to do immediately was finally make Robbie Reyes cool. He’s a character I’ve tried many times to like but just never clicked with me. Seeing him here made me realize it was the art that never sold me before. If Robbie’s Ghost Rider always looked this badass, I would’ve long been a fan.
Where DC Rebirth felt like it’s main effort was to erase a lot of history and revert back to the old days, Legacy feels it’s pushing forward unashamed of where it’s been. Not to take anything away from the triumph that was DC Rebirth, but Marvel managed to do something different when we all assumed it would be almost a carbon copy.
This book heavily benefits by having Jason Aaron at the helm. The world of Thor is very much at the center of Legacy, as it should be, and there’s no writer with a better handle on Asgard than Aaron.
One thing that was important in separating this event from the yearly Marvel relaunches is that it is deeply entrenched in and focused on Marvel Comics. That may sound stupid but ever since the MCU’s massive success, there has been a focus on blending fans of the movies with the comics and it never panned out.
To have the 616 Universe focused on itself and not tying into the next movie release is a major factor in getting fans to buy in.
For all the mixed reception that Secret Empire received, you can’t deny what it does for Captain America going forward. This is completely uncharted territory for Steve Rogers. Having always been the heart of every hero, as well as the nation, for the first time ever Cap is going to have to earn the world’s trust back. We may have our Steve back but he doesn’t have his world back. This new era we’re entering for the character is an exciting one.
All the little seeds planted were well executed, from Norman Osborn’s thirst for power to the subtle newscast about how well Wilson Fisk is polling for NYC mayor. The tiny previews of stories to come across all of Marvel’s line, while setting up the status quo, didn’t read like a cheap plug. This is another key element that sets it apart from the Civil War II failures in recent memory.
Now for the big return, I successfully avoided every spoiler heading into this. I know it’s weird to do that, who likes to naturally react to things anymore? Having no clue what to expect coming in, the reveal of James Howlett in all his Wolverine glory was stupendous. I pity those that didn’t get to experience the inner-squealing and massive smile that engulfed my face when he stepped out of that beer truck. That sequence will no doubt go down in history as one of the most Logan things to have ever happened.
Some of the strongest moments in Marvel, and comics history as a whole, have revolved around the infinity stones. Having them not only be at the heart of all things Marvel cosmic right now, but also at the heart of Legacy is a sign of relief. Marvel operates best when it’s sci-fi cosmic world is intertwined with both the world of gods and the mortals on Earth.
The other reveal at the end, of Valeria Richards having been the narrator, was another rich comic book moment that made my heart full. The Fantastic Four’s absence from Marvel is something that has been plaguing them more than they’ll admit. To finally see some semblance of them, and a tease for the possible future, is joyous for every Marvel fan.
I appreciate that all the cards Marvel have weren’t played immediately. The eventual return of the “First Family” is something to look forward to in the future. It’s similar to how DC Rebirth has been toying with readers over introducing the Watchmen into their universe. Letting things breathe and build is a smart strategy, having our Wolverine back is monumental in itself, we can wait some more for the FF.
Marvel Legacy on the whole, was a well crafted and epic experience. It established what was necessary without giving the future map away really at all. Jason Aaron crafted each moment precisely the way it needed to be done. We didn’t linger too long on anyone, the right pieces are in place for big roles, and Robbie Reyes is finally cool. Aaron was clearly the right choice to handle such a tremendous task, I wouldn’t mind him becoming the Geoff Johns of Marvel Comics.
I’m proud of both Jason Aaron and Marvel for not giving in to the people who opposed the diversity in our heroes throughout the 616. This wasn’t an apology or hostage negotiation, it was a realignment. They were ambitious, they saw what worked and what didn’t, and are now ready to move forward with the best of both the old and new casts of characters.
Esad Ribic and Steve McNiven deliver an epic on the grandest scale possible. The art alone warrants multiple reads of Marvel Legacy #1. The transition from artist to artist were smooth, which is no easy task in a comics world littered with too many artists on single books. The key player is Matthew Wilson having colored the entire issue, keeping a steady flow and consistency despite there being so many different visionaries on one issue.
Marvel Legacy is officially upon us. We now enter a new era for Marvel Comics, it’s shaping up to be an exciting and quite healthy one if this issue is any indication.
MMA fighter Andrew Tate has gone on the offensive. In a blatant and opinion oriented tweet, he slammed Anime and the fans who enjoy it. It read as the following:
If you are over 15 and like cartoons you are a loser. Anime dragon ball Z etc. No excuse. Plus ANY woman loses respect for you. Grow up.
This comment was met with lots of negative feedback. Most notable was a follow up by Funimation replying to him with Dragonball Z’s character Son Goku giving a response:
Additional comments justifying the love of anime came as Ben Nguyen one of the top 10 UFC fighters in the world chimed in and expressed his love for the media.
Damn. sucks being top 10 in the world for @UFC and enjoying anime. I'm such a loser
Andrew Tate has been living up to his Twitter description of “toxic masculinity” lately. He has often been using his account to spread his unique philosophies on life. Considering the fighter’s accusation of depression simply being a state of mind and not an actual mental disease his most recent comments seem to be almost timid nature. Hopefully, this most recent comment is just another misguided and ill informed statement will finally help Mr. Tate see things and in less broad terms.
Nevermind. After the initial release of his tweet against Anime and its fans, Mr. Tate has continued to be offensive. Apparently this situation is not going to be resolved anytime soon. Luckily, Funimation hasn’t let up themselves and still continues to make an effort to prove the fighter wrong.
MegaCon Tampa Bayis a three-day pop culture event that runs from September 29 through October 1, and Monkeys Fighting Robots will be there to give away some great prizes to our fans. One lucky winner will win the IDW John Romita’s The Amazing Spider-Man Artist Edition signed by Stan Lee and John Romita (John even sketched in the book too).
Eager to maintain a relative peace from Rita Repulsa’s alien hordes and seek a new path to heroism, the Rangers look to Grace’s organization, Promethea, for help.
Writing/Story
At its core, the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers TV series was often formulaic. A monster of the week shows up, causes trouble, the Power Rangers appear, summon a giant robot, and the day is saved. The previous comics series made the mistake of simply presenting this formula in a drawn form without adding anything new. So, when this book decides to replicate the formula, why does it feel fresh and entertaining? Simply, because it hasn’t been played to death.
As the new story arc slowly builds it is apparent writer Kyle Higgins is showcasing how familiar aspects can be shown in a fresh light. The team fights monsters who have the ability to disguise themselves as humans and blend in easily with the rest of society. It is a simple concept but has great delivery. At the same time, there is great human drama as Billy’s mom finds herself unable to feel safe when her son leaves the house and Kimberly deals with her father getting remarried. It’s these simple elements which help to add heart to the story and make you wish the kids could deal with these problems instead of having to go off to fight monsters. This is when you know the writing has reached an impressive level.
Artwork
Hendry Prasetya tackles the pencils and inks for the issue. It features some great monster designs which really look like they could be part of the series. Impressive work to say the least.
The coloring is left between Matt Herms and Joana Lafuente. Herms works to show the daily drama sections of the characters. This softer style helps to make it feel light and let the drama take center stage. Lafuente works with the action scenes. This darker technique allows for the monsters to feel more destructive as they tear up the city. Together the pair seems to deliver an impressive product.
Lettering is handled by Ed Dukeshire. There is noticeable changes throughout the different monsters and how various characters speak. Lots of emphasis is employed on empowering when characters are shouting, trying to sound menacing, and when they are trying to make a point.
Conclusion
It’s always good to go back to what made a series entertaining in the first place. Power Rangers may be formulaic but if handled properly the stories will always be enriching and keep the audience around. Given the final pages of this issue, it already looks like there is a lot of great setup for wonderful things to come in the future.
