Breaking news from Lucasfilm today announcing that Phil Lord and Christopher Miller have left the ‘Untitled Han Solo’ film due to creative differences, according to Deadline.
Their post reads:
The Untitled Han Solo film will move forward with a directorial change.
“Phil Lord and Christopher Miller are talented filmmakers who have assembled an incredible cast and crew, but it’s become clear that we had different creative visions on this film, and we’ve decided to part ways. A new director will be announced soon,” said Kathleen Kennedy, president of Lucasfilm.
“Unfortunately, our vision and process weren’t aligned with our partners on this project. We normally aren’t fans of the phrase ‘creative differences’ but for once this cliché is true. We are really proud of the amazing and world-class work of our cast and crew,” stated Phil Lord and Christopher Miller.
The untitled Han Solo film remains scheduled for a May 2018 release.
The film has a screenplay by Lawrence and Jon Kasdan, and is produced by Lucasfilm and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures. It will be the second installment of the Star Wars Anthology series, following 2016’s Rogue One. Alden Ehrenreich is starring as Solo, along with Woody Harrelson, Emilia Clarke, Donald Glover, Thandie Newton, Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Joonas Suotamo.
Transformers: The Last Knight‘s laughable narrative mixed with putrid performances by the entire cast make this film the worst of the 2017 summer movie season.
Summary
What’s sad about this release is that even after sitting for two and half hours of the latest Transformers film, it’s hard to make sense of the most convoluted narratives of the summer. It shouldn’t be this hard to unwrap the 5th Transformers movie but Micheal Bay really “Bay’d” this whole movie. From what I could gather, Transformers: The Last Knight centers around the idea of reframing. The writers, director, producers, and anyone who is involved in the film want audiences to forget any background knowledge that we may have on the Autobots and the Decepticons. Now we are to believe that Transformers have roamed the earth for centuries, dating back to the time King Arthur, the knights of the round table, and Merlin. Transformer and Human formed an alliance over history to help each other against the forces of evil. This secret history has been entrusted to a particular bloodline which I guess is supposed to be similar to the Knights of the Templar but now falls on the shoulders of Sir Edmund Burton (Anthony Hopkins). Now if the film were just about protecting the hidden history of the Transformers then at least this movie would somewhat make sense, but alas we are talking about a Micheal Bay production.
So apparently, Optimus Prime is gone to seek out his creator on his home planet of Cybertron only to realize that their maker (a robot named Quintessa) has become twisted and can turn our hero into a villain. Now his home planet is on a collision course with Earth and Quintessa has every intention of allowing Cybertron to absorb Earth and become one mega planet. The only people who have the power to save mankind are Cade Yerger (Mark Wahlberg), Colonel William Lennox (Josh Duhamel), and Vivian Wembley (Laura Haddox). Vivian is apparently a secret weapon in this fight because not only is she an Oxford Professor but is also a decedent of Merlin (sigh). The film becomes this crazy as hell confusing mess as they race against the clock to save the planet from extinction.
What Worked
Well, at least what we were looking at on the screen was beautiful. What was taking place on the screen may have been utter garbage, but Michael Bay sure does know how to make trash look beautiful.
Stanley Tucci playing Merlin because at least he can deny his involvement in the project because he’s unrecognizable in the film.
What Didn’t Work
Did Anthony Hopkins even read the script for the film? Did he agree to do this just for the novelty of it all? While I understand that his purpose was to launch this new cinematic universe, his role was so inconsequential and confusing that it could have easily been cut from the film. Why even have a character to usher in this new world? No one on this movie seems to care at all about coherent narratives or continuity.
The only reason why Mark Wahlberg has to be still doing these films must be because he’s locked into a multi-picture deal. That’s the only logical reason why anyone would agree to be part of this. However, there has to come to the point where even Mr. Wahlberg is over it all. Not even the mountain of cash that he makes doing these films can fill the void of doing an action film that clearly should have never been made to start with. His performance was a textbook example of “going through the motions.”
So you get rid of Megan Fox and replace her with what can only be described as her British doppelganger?
How many times are we supposed to find John Turturro’s role as a conspiracy nut job entertaining?
Can someone please explain to Michael Bay that there’s no need to use slow motion in what appears to be every 4th scene of the film. It was distracting and took the audience out the moment even if that moment was ridiculously bad.
Overall
Transformers: The Last Knight only exists because people still are willing to pay to see a bad film based on nostalgia. I grew up playing with Transformers just like most little boys and girls did during the 1980’s, and this movie is an insult to their legacy. Some might argue that this is just a simple movie with cool explosions that’s meant for kids. When exactly did children start to enjoy films that were lacking in originality and dreadfully dull?
Others might argue that this film wasn’t made for the critics and only fans would appreciate the final product. Do you think critics do this job because we somehow aren’t fans of cinema? We are fans just like anyone else who longs only to be entertained. I realize that Transformers isn’t Shakespeare, but that doesn’t mean Michael Bay should just be allowed to pass off any final product as being good. There has to be some element of quality or even portions of the film that are at least redeemable.
Once upon a time, Micheal Bay may have cared, but he certainly doesn’t anymore. That’s the only way to justify how awful this film is. This was the closest I’ve ever come to walking out of a screening. The latest Transformers filmwas made with merchandise sales in mind, and ticket sales are just secondary. If Transformers: The Last Knight makes back its budget then they’ll be pleased, but if the film doesn’t it won’t matter. They already have plans for multiple sequels and even a Bumblebee spinoff film. The only to stop these types movies from ever coming to light is to stop buying tickets for them. Demand better! Expect more from your director! Unfortunately, if we don’t take this hardline stance, we can just expect more of the same in the coming years ahead.
There is no way to make ‘Transformers: The Last Knight’ a good film, so EJ and Matt have to work extra hard this week to entertain you. We hope you appreciate the effort.
Strap yourself in buckaroos! Episode 127 of the MOVIE SHOW by Monkeys Fighting Robots is here.
Do you want to be our SUPER-FAN of the week? All you have to do is comment on this podcast to be eligible.
Do you have a question that you would like answered during the show? Email your questions to matt@popaxiom.com.
About the Monkeys Fighting Robots Podcast:
A Gen Xer and a Millennial debate the latest topics in pop culture. One guy is a filmmaker and the other is a journalist, but both are nerds. We make your slowest days at work better. Hosts, Matthew Sardo and EJ Moreno.
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.
Who’s EJ Moreno? Is he a trained physician? No. Is he a former Miss Universe contestant? Possibly. But what we know for sure is he’s a writer, filmmaker, and pop culture enthusiast. Since film school, EJ has written & directed several short films. He’s used his passion of filmmaking to become a movie critic for MonkeysFightingRobots.com.
Hop City Brewing Company, previously the Niagara Falls Brewing Company until it was purchased in 2004 by Moosehead, has won a few awards since its re-branding. This year, Hop City Brewing won gold in the amber lager category for their Barking Squirrel Lager. And, although I’ve drunk a few Barking Squirrel Lagers over the years — and previously reviewed Hop City’s 8th Sin Black Lager — today I’m reviewing another of Hop City’s brews. Now, enabling my love of pale ales, I’m reviewing Hop City’s HopBot IPA. And, although I’m firmly a member of Team Monkey, I have a feeling that this is one robot I’m going to like.
HopBot IPA: Hop City Brewing Company – First Sip
HopBot IPA pours a transparent copper colour with a thick layer of foam. The foam gradually dissipates, leaving lots of thick lacing as it goes. I smell grapefruit as I take my first sip and enjoy the subtle malt flavours that quickly give way to HopBot’s dry finish. Its high alcohol content (7.1% ABV) sets off this brew’s malty backbone, creating a unique taste. All in all, HopBot’s blend of malt and hops balances quite well. Despite the thick layer of foam that forms when poured, HopBot has a relatively low carbonation level. Even so, this IPA-lover could do with even less fizz. As it is, HopBot’s has a smooth mouthfeel, but it could be smoother.
HopBot IPA: Hop City Brewing Company – Last Sip
Robotic efficiency never tasted so good. This is a beer that demands the imbiber’s attention. Unlike a crisp lager that someone chugs and forgets about, HopBot is a strong-tasting brew with lots of character, especially for a robot. With its strong taste and only slightly fizzy mouthfeel, this brew goes great with deep-fried and salty foods alike. This beer’s aroma is a great preface to its flavour, so make sure you enjoy it from a glass rather than from the can or bottle.
It’s starting to look like Keanu Reeves might have some competition for the most badass character award. CBS and Lionsgate just released a new red-band trailer for American Assassin. Based on the bestselling novels by Vince Flynn, this action-packed trailer delves more into the action thriller element of the movie and makes it extremely clear that Dylan O’Brien has what it takes to be an action hero.
It’s hard not to see the parallels between American Assassin and other franchises such as Bond, Jack Ryan, and John Wick. Hopefully, using these films as a template American Assassin will be able to create a great action franchise and boost Dylan O’Brien as our latest action hero.
American Assassin follows the rise of Mitch Rapp (Dylan O’Brien), a CIA black ops recruit under the instruction of Cold War veteran Stan Hurley (Michael Keaton). The pair is then enlisted by CIA Deputy Director Irene Kennedy (Sanaa Lathan) to investigate a wave of apparently random attacks on both military and civilian targets. Together the three discover a pattern in the violence leading them to a joint mission with a lethal Turkish agent (Shiva Negar) to stop a mysterious operative (Taylor Kitsch) intent on starting a World War in the Middle East.
American Assassin Will In Theaters September 2017!
You shouldn’t need an article to tell you how good American Gods is. Honestly, one need only look at the IMDB page for the Starz original series. The show’s co-creators are Bryan Fuller (Hannibal) and Michael Green (Logan). American Gods is based off the hugely successful novel by legendary writer Neil Gaiman. The pool of acting talent includes powerhouses like Ian McShane, Gillian Anderson, and Crispin Glover. If those names didn’t signify “greatness” before, they certainly should now.
American Gods’ debut season is a triumph of television. The series even landed a spot in our dream Emmy nominations list. American Gods has a loud, dynamic style that is continuously exciting. It’s a series that packs a punch with great, well-paced storytelling. Fuller & Green’s talent and experience as writers shines through. The scale and rich mythology of American Gods could make it the next Game of Thrones.
The series follows Shadow Moon, a recent widower returning home from prison. Shadow runs into Mr. Wednesday, a mysterious grifter, who hires Shadow as his bodyguard. Shadow is then thrust into a world of magic he can’t begin to understand. Along the way, Shadow meets an angry leprechaun (Schreiber), Lucille Ball (Anderson) – even his dead wife (Emily Browning). Shadow Moon’s story of finding his faith makes for an intense, powerful viewing experience.
The performances of all the actors are fantastic. Ricky Whittle’s portrayal of Shadow is equal parts brooding and powerful. Ian McShane was born to play Wednesday, personifying the clever swagger of the ancient god. Emily Browning’s portrayal of Laura Moon is dynamic and entertaining. Pablo Schreiber’s non-stereotypical leprechaun, Mad Sweeney, is a fantastically foil for the characters. Not to mention the fantastic deities that are introduced throughout the series. American Gods builds out a fantastic roster of characters in its first season.
Along with the performances and writing, the show excels with its visuals. The way American Gods utilizes special effects and CGI for certain scenes is incredibly unique. In some instances, the visuals highlight the insane violence in the series. The first scene of the show contains an insane amount of bloodshed. However, the special effects can also highlight real intimacy. The scene with Salim and the Jinn is wonderfully tender, and the visuals make it even more beautiful. The visuals are just as intense and crazy as the characters, and that’s why it works so well. Each part of the show lines up perfectly with the tone of the show.
American Gods also does a great job including vignettes on immigration. Each episode contains a ‘Coming to America’ story for the many gods of the show. In many cases, it gives the series a great chance to further build up its lore. There are moments, however, where it feels a bit excessive. This is most notable in ‘A Prayer for Mad Sweeney,’ the penultimate episode. It’s an interesting story, but dedicating a whole episode to Sweeney’s sort-of origin feels unnecessary. When the contained, vignette-style stories accompanies the main plot, they make for great introductions to each episode.
If anything, the weakest element of American Gods is how short it is. This is partially because it’s a bummer to be done with the season. However, part of the issue is that it feels incomplete. The season ends on a big note, but it doesn’t feel big enough. Many similarly big shows tend to have 10 or 12 episodes per season. Upon finishing ‘Come to Jesus,’ American Gods feels like it’s missing a few episodes. Especially considering the scale of the show, the finale feels one beat off.
As far as weak points go, ‘being too short’ is not too shabby. American Gods is an incredibly well constructed season of television. The show builds its world up very well, and the way characters interact is fantastic. American Gods has a lot to say on American society, and the way it explores such issues is powerful. For a show all about faith and deities, American Gods never comes off as “preachy.” That’s why it’s such a fantastic show, and worthy of worship.
STAND-OUT PERFORMANCES: Ian McShane, Ricky Whittle, Emily Browning, Pablo Schreiber, Bruce Langley
STAND-OUT EPISODES: “The Bone Orchard;” “A Murder of Gods;” “Head Full of Snow;” “Lemon Scented You”
I’m ecstatic to see the positive reaction, but what worries me is the fact that he claims the villain is “meh”. Given that legendary actor Michael Keaton is playing such an important character like Vulture, he needs to deliver a solid performance and the role must be written well.
Are you looking forward to Spider-Man: Homecoming? Sound off in the comments below!
Spider-Man: Homecoming features Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Donald Glover, Zendaya, Marisa Tomei, Robert Downey Jr., Jon Favreau, Tyne Daly, Tony Revolori, Bokeem Woodbine, and Hannibal Buress.
“A young Peter Parker/Spider-Man (Tom Holland), who made his sensational debut in Captain America: Civil War, begins to navigate his newfound identity as the web-slinging super hero in Spider-Man: Homecoming. Thrilled by his experience with the Avengers, Peter returns home, where he lives with his Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), under the watchful eye of his new mentor Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.). Peter tries to fall back into his normal daily routine – distracted by thoughts of proving himself to be more than just your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man – but when the Vulture (Michael Keaton) emerges as a new villain, everything that Peter holds most important will be threatened.”
Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, the brilliant minds who gave us Sherlock,are bringing the same treatment to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The project is in the very early stages of development, as Moffat wraps up his tenure on Doctor Who. Gatiss has also served as a writer on Doctor Who.
Dracula is a Gothic horror novel written by Bram Stoker in 1897. It tells the story of the eponymous vampire who makes his way from Transylvania to England with plans to spread his undead curse. The novel has been adapted and interpreted countless times for the theater, film, and television.
More recently, Count Draculawas unsuccessfully brought to the big screen in the 2014 flick Dracula Untold. The movie was meant to pave the way for a Universal Monster cinematic universe. Universal Studios is going at it again with the ‘Dark Universe,’ recently announcing Dracula as part of their roster once more.
This new Dracula will use the same format as Sherlock, releasing as a miniseries-length run of feature-length episodes. Whether this version will bring the iconic bloodsucker to modern times or remain in the Victorian era remains to be seen. The former seems likely, however, as Moffat famously adapted two 19th century literary characters (Sherlock Holmes and Henry Jekyll) for the present day.
Sherlock, which aired its fourth series earlier this year, was a huge success around the globe. It also propelled its leads, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, to international stardom.
There are no plans for the fifth series of Sherlock at the moment, as both Cumberbatch and Freeman’s slates are a bit full. However, Moffat and Gatiss have not ruled out the possibility of eventually returning to the show.
Are you excited to see a Steven Moffat/Mark Gatiss adaptation of Dracula? Let’s discuss in the comments!
The first set photo from X-Men: Dark Phoenix has been released on Twitter by JenLawFilms.
The image seemingly shows a build of Charles Xavier’s Danger Room, which is in the X-Mansion.
X-Men: Dark Phoenix stars Sophie Turner as the lead and also includes James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Tye Sheridan, Nicholas Hoult, Jennifer Lawrence, Alexandra Shipp, and Kodi Smit-McPhee. The release date is November 2, 2018.
Are you looking forward to the movie? Comment below, let us know.
Batman: Mask Of The Phantasm is being released on Blu-Ray soon.
The critically acclaimed Batman animated flick will be re-released on the platform in both the original aspect ratio, 16×9 (1.78:1) and open matte 4×3 (1.37:1).
“When the city’s most feared gangsters are systematically eliminated, the Caped Crusader is blamed. But prowling the Gotham night is a shadowy new villain, the Phantasm, a sinister figure with some link to Batman’s past. Can the Dark Knight elude the police, capture the Phantasm and clear his own name?
Unmasking the Phantasm is just one of the twists in this dazzling animated feature. Discover revelations about Batman’s past, his archrival the Joker and Batman’s most grueling battle ever — the choice between his love for a beautiful woman and his vow to be the defender of right.”
No specific release date was given.
Will you be picking this up on Blu-Ray? What is your favorite animated Batman movie? Sound off in the comments below!
What Worked
