QUEENS OF THE STONE AGE Are Back, Prepare Your Hips For Shaking!

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June 15, 2017

The triumphant desert gods of modern rock n’ roll have returned. After torturing and teasing diehard fans for a few months, the band releases their first new song since 2013. Queens Of The Stone Age are back in full force.

QOTSA.com was updated this week, giving fans an interactive television set full of album teases. The most notable being a hilarious video in which Liam Lynch gives Josh Homme a polygraph test, revealing album details and teasing the opening track.

Today was the big day, the band released their single “The Way You Used To Do.” Along with an August 25 release date for Villains.

Homme has always been about hip twisting and tail shaking, this new song is the deepest into “dancy” the band has ever gone. The Way You Used To Do is an infectious and groovy number, QOTSA is once again headed into uncharted territory.

The previous six installments in their prestigious discography are all very different from each other. The band evolves in every sense from one era to the next. If this single is any indication, Villains will be the light and loose response to the dark and heavy themes of …Like Clockwork.

Josh’s vocals and consistent hand claps are the driving force of the track. It’s a strange direction for the band, but not an unwelcome one.

Personally, I don’t like that the rest of the band takes a back seat, sitting further back in the mix. Initially, it sounded like drummer John Theodore had been reduced to a snare and bass drum. Upon multiple listens, and a drastic increase in volume, the full band is exposed.

Mark Ronson is producing the album, perhaps this was a decision he made. His most notable producer credits are pop singers and not necessarily rock bands.

I’m not crazy about the mix, but the instrumentation is a lot more interesting than I originally thought when I dove deeper into the background. Queens have always been a band that reveals its brilliance through the layers of sound they present, rewarding fans the more attention they pay.

Regardless of my initial impression, it’s undeniably infectious and I can’t stop listening to it. The best in the business are back, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for more content as the August 25 release date for Villains approaches.

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Colin Trevorrow Gives ‘Episode IX’ Script Update, Plus How He Plans To Scare You In ‘Jurassic World 2’

By

Matthew Sardo

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June 15, 2017

Filmmaker Colin Trevorrow is out promoting his latest film ‘Book of Henry,’ and we caught up with the director to ask him how the script for Star Wars Episode IX was coming along.

“We’re working and we’re designing and you know there’s so many elements that go into these movies and the script is obviously the most important one but we have a lot of people who are brilliant at their jobs who are engaged in this right now so it’s an exciting time,” said Trevorrow.

That was almost Trump-like in his non-answer!

Trevorrow also explained his unique take on introducing fear in a film and how he would apply it to the Jurassic World sequel.

“I feel like oftentimes something that helps is being able to see fear through the mind of a child. So I think that we remember what it was like to be afraid then. There are only brief moments in adulthood where you relive that kind of fear. I don’t think we sit in our beds and wonder if something is going to come out of the closet as adults. To be able to tap into that with a movie like Jurassic World, certainly with Jurassic World 2 is something we talk about and think about a lot of that. In a case like this (‘Book of Henry’) you know being afraid of what’s beyond your neighbor’s front door about if there’s evil that close to you I think is a really universal idea,” said Trevorrow.

The complete Colin Trevorrow interview will be posted shortly, check back for more behind-the-scenes insight from the director.

‘Jurassic World 2’ will crush the box office on June 22, 2018, and ‘Star Wars: Episode IX’ has an expected released date of May 24, 2019.

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A Standing Ovation For ‘Jem’ #26

By

Anthony Wendel

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Truly Outrageous Part Three! It all comes down to this oversized final issue! As the Holograms try to come together in paradise, their secrets (and their rivalries) continue to threaten to tear them apart.

Writing

All good things must come to an end. But why? This series became a great example of what IDW has been able to accomplish. Thanks to the writing of Kelly Thompson, the series was a must read with little to no dip in the quality of its storytelling or its art. Few others comics can claim such an honor. Sure, there is still a miniseries coming out after but it still seems like a finale just in case the next series doesn’t help things moving forward.

This “final” issue of Jem was filled with a lot of great moments. A search for Kimber, the Holograms playing a benefit concert, and a brief confrontation with the Stingers all occur in this book. The issue also features a really intense moment for Jerrica and Rio which gives fans the heart to heart talk they have always wanted these two characters to have. It’s almost too much of a good thing but the bitter reminder its supposed to be a send off does keep it from reaching perfection.

Artwork

The art by Gisele Lagace with color work by M. Victoria Robado is the ideal send off to this series. The characters are drawn with the right mix of emotion for the given situations which play out in the panels. The concert scene is drawn with a special attention to the detail work. It’s as if the team wanted everyone to know just how intense this concert was supposed to be to the readers. Solid work to say the least.

Conclusion

Buy this book. In fact, buy all of the Jem comics so this series keeps going. Jem was a testament to what happens when a nostalgic property is updated to modern times and the great stories which come from it. Hopefully whatever happens in Jem: Infinite will ensure the series continued longevity. For now, all fans can hope for something truly outrageous to happen in the future.

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Here’s a Pulse-Pounding New Trailer for Kathryn Bigelow’s ‘Detroit’

By

Larry Taylor - Managing Editor

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June 15, 2017

If the Detroit teaser trailer wasn’t enough to whet your appetite for Kathryn Bigelow’s new riot drama, this new trailer should do the trick.

Detroit, based on the 1967 race riots in the city, stars John Boyega as the cultist for the entire picture, and the way this trailer is shot and scored, the tension here could not be any higher. Check it out:

A police raid in Detroit in 1967 results in one of the largest and most intense riots in United States history, leading to the federalization of the Michigan National Guard and the involvement of two Airborne Divisons of the United States Army.

Kathryn Bigelow has spent a great deal of time on wars overseas, and it appears she may be turning her attention back on wars at home. Her scope looks like it’s coming with her as well. This looks pretty incredible however you slice it, and it should definitely be on the lips and minds of awards-season voters.

Aside from Boyega, Detroit stars Will Poulter, John Krasinski, Anthony Mackie, and is written by frequent Bigelow collaborator Mark Boal. And here’s the best part… we don’t have to wait until November or some limited Christmas rollout to see this. Detroit will be here in under two months, August 4.

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Japan’s Idol Obsession and The Consequences

By

David Harada

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June 15, 2017

Japan, known for its kinky quirks beginning at anime/manga and ending with its adult industry. However, in between these two lies a middle ground that is almost endless with the wrong possibilities. One of such lies the idol industry. Within the recent years, we have begun to see how its effects in the States, but its effects can be even more consequential.

From Akihabara to Anime

Akihabara, the town of lights and electronics. Many know the city as an anime haven for all otaku alike, non-discriminatory based on one’s obsession. However, this city is also considered home to AKB48 where almost nightly mini concerts occur for hopeful new recruits. It is almost fitting that where one of the biggest, if not the biggest idol group, has become home to a new type of idol. Anime has begun to embrace the money-making machine as well. Shipping off younger girls to become fantasized by all ages of people. With Love-Live and other anime titles taking hold of the genre is this what we have come to expect? Whether it’s from anime or reality, Japan is slowly being defined by another weird fetish.

Idol Hell

Even one of the most controversial images in Japanese Television, Matsuko Deluxe, is completely opposed to the idea. Japan was debating on possible musical acts to introduce at the upcoming 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. A possible JPN48, know as Japan 48 made up from these various idol groups, was to be considered. Matsuko stood against the idea stating that he absolutely did not want the group in the opening ceremony.

While some in Japan want to show the world of this “Idol Culture” many still believe it to be a negative aspect. Japan has enough negative stereotypes surrounding it and idol groups should not be the next one. I do agree that it has a profitable market, but when marketing younger girls (ages 15-25 usually on the younger side) for entertainment some reservation should occur.

Anime Expo 2017

Quite possibly one of the bigger talking points in America this year in regards to idols is their appearance at AX. This year a few idol groups have been making their way over due to its overseas popularity. Over the past few years, idol groups have consistently made their mark here. Yet with their constant exposure, it feels like anime has become defined by two major categories. Either the hot new Shonen Jump anime or whichever Idol Anime has made a debut.

Verdict

Idol Groups will stay a prevailing factor in Japan and probably in various other countries as well. Despite this, the concept has been taken to extremes with various groups popping up across Japan. Yet with these new groups causing for more idol otakus both in Japan and overseas I find it detrimental in general. If you disagree or agree please comment below. I’d love to hear your opinions on the matter.

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E3 2017: Marvel vs Capcom Infinite demo impressions

By

Jahmssen Ruiz Castaneda

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June 15, 2017

Marvel vs Capcom Infinite

A few days ago, a trailer for Marvel vs Capcom Infinite came out at E3 and revealed a release date for the demo. I downloaded it last night and gave it a spin on my Xbox One. If you’re new to the MVC series, you might enjoy this, but as someone who’s played a ton of 2 and 3, this was subpar. Let me explain.

[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8seeZsWZ1CI[/embedyt]

Characters

The playable characters have gone down from 3 to 2 in a single match. This might not be a big deal, but part of what made the previous two games so good was the ability to mix and match a trio. I’m also not a fan of the cool characters like Black Panther being DLC. This is Marvel vs Capcom isn’t it?

All of the characters we were given to play feel extremely slow. This means that the combat goes by faster while feeling like it doesn’t. It’s a complicated feeling to put into words but it’s a bit like watching two turtles fight and then one of them randomly faints with no signs of it happening.

Infinity stones

New additions to the game are the infinity stones which act like load outs of sorts. You equip one and then the LB button has a set move that carries your team. In the demo, we were given the time and power stones. The time stone gives us a teleport while the power stone gives us an uppercut. Ultron-Sigma were given the reality stone which shoots a little red projectile.

Story mode

The demo dealt with the story mode which sees a bunch of Marvel and Capcom characters joining forces to fight a fusion of Ultron and Sigma that took over a merging of Asgard and the city Megaman X is from. The new city is called Xgard. The story looked solid if not for the constant switch between perspective and the characters’ insistence on calling each other’s names so much.

Obviously, all of this is no indication of the final product, but I thought it needed mentioning.

A real standout scene was when Megaman X used Captain America’s shield. It looked really cool.

The verdict?

All in all, you should download the demo and see it for yourself. Maybe you’ll like it, maybe you won’t but the point is to try a new game right? It runs at about 30 minutes so you’ll get plenty of gameplay to start forming an idea.

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‘Optimus Prime’ #8 Is All That Jazz And More

By

Anthony Wendel

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Jazz confronts his past-and the Autobot’s future-in front of millions of television viewers. But will he make the people of Earth understand Optimus Prime’s mission… or turn against it?

Writing

This issue had a lot of going for it thanks to great build up from previous issues. Jazz has been one of the most interesting characters since the Optimus Prime series started. He has a lot of history with the planet and is very recognized by humans thanks to an incident in earlier issues where he had no choice but to kill a human he thought would harm his friends. In an effort to try and change the mind of world and show not every Transformer is bad, he agrees to sit down for an interview. It’s these elements of Jazz telling about his past, his love of music, and about Optimus’ mission where the issue truly stands out.

Writer John Barber truly delivered a great issue filled with emotion, drama, and intrigue. The issue helps to give a great character a chance to shine while perfectly showcasing what is happening in the world. With any luck he will continue this level of impressive writing as this series movies into its next arc.

Artwork

The artwork by Art by Casey W. Coller with color work by John-Paul Bove is phenomenal. The best part of this issue the flashback panels which help to convey Jazz and his love of music so perfectly. With very little action in the issue, the art needed to be at a superior level to ensure the emotion resonated through the page. Luckily the art team succeeded above and beyond in this aspect.

Conclusion

This issue was everything we could hope for and more. A truly heartfelt piece showcase a character trying to do all they can to make up for their past and at the same time work towards moving forward for the greater good. It will be hard to top an issue this good but there is a good chance the creative team behind this book is going to try.

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E3 2017: ‘FIFA 18’ On Switch Is Mediocre To The Core

By

Aric Sweeny

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June 15, 2017

FIFA 18 is a solid 3rd party title on Nintendo Switch. Although it’s missing some features that are on the Xbox One and Playstation 4 version, the game’s portability makes up for it.

I’m not shy about the fact that I’m not a FIFA fan. I’ve never played a game in the series, and probably never will. With that said, however, I understand the appeal of these games. The quick demo I tried at E3 was fun, but not something that I could see myself playing on a regular basis.

Fundamentally, soccer bores me. The game that often ends in 0-0 is just something that I don’t enjoy watching – FIFA is a bit different. By actually controlling the players, like in any other sports game, you’re carving your own path and possibly allowing for a high scoring game.

Visually, FIFA 18 on Switch is…fine? It’s not up to snuff when compared to its modern console counterparts, but it’s also not terrible.

This is a brief review because I truly don’t have much to say about the title. If you’re a Switch owner that enjoys the FIFA series, absolutely pick up this new version. If you’re like me and couldn’t care less about the franchise, don’t bother.

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‘Cars 3’ Review: Pixar Pits Generation X vs Millennials

By

EJ Moreno

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June 15, 2017

‘Cars 3’ Feels Like An Older Generation’s Fear of the Future

I’m seeing this debate a lot within various sports communities. An older generation fears the new style. The new generation is brash and cocky, trying to match the ones before. This basically happens in any industry. ‘Cars 3‘ offers a candid look at old vs new in sports. It’s buried deep within this film and doesn’t touch on it enough to be thought-provoking. When it does, that’s when the movie is the most confusing.

Lightning McQueen represents Generation X. This is a group raised by Baby Boomers but rubs shoulders with a younger generation. Gex X is on the cusp of two worlds. Jackson Storm is the new breed of athlete that’s driven by science and swag. Jackson Storm is how an entire generation views Millennials. Lightning McQueen leans more towards Baby Boomers with the whole “Damn these kids and their new attitude” mentality.

“I can’t go out on the track and do the same old thing; it won’t work!”
– Lightning McQueen (before he goes out and does the same old thing)

These two ideologies clash in the film like they do in real life. But why push this narrative?It comes off like a stubborn person refusing to see another side because they aren’t familiar with it. Yes, characters like Jackson Storm comes off condescending towards Lightning McQueen. He has a few jabs about McQueen being an “old-timer”. Jackson Storm even says many times that he respect McQueen’s legend status but just wants to be the new legend. His whole villain arc is based around this. I originally hoped this would go the ‘Rocky IV‘ route and craft a young antagonist but with dark motives. Sadly, it just made the antagonist young and left it at that.

Even the secondary antagonist has no real villain motivation other than promoting his business. Sterling, the car who buys out Rust-Eze, wants to make Lightning McQueen into a brand. He sees McQueen nearing the end of his career so he jumps at the chance to make him a rich legend. There’s no evil scheme to buy-out other teams, no one is cheating…it’s just about becoming a brand. That’s enough for this movie to make someone a villain. This feels like the condescending mindset of someone who rejects the notion of “selling out” and becoming a brand. More of the old vs new mentality.

I’m not denying both antagonistic characters aren’t nice but I seriously question their motives. ‘Cars 3‘ is another example of trying too hard to build a hero’s journey. When you do that, the rest of the characters suffer. Fleshing out Storm & Sterling out with proper arcs or actual villainous moments makes it easier to cheer for Lightning McQueen. Instead, I find myself questioning why I hate these guys. Hell, I almost like them!

Final Thoughts:

Feels weird that ‘Cars 3‘ would get so preachy. I’m sure it’s enough for this film’s nostalgic middle America demographic but leaves much to be desired. This is a movie made by Baby Boomers trying to tell Gen X parents that Millennials are bad. You expect this from a meme on your odd uncle’s Facebook but not a Disney/Pixar movie.

Check out ‘Cars 3‘, in theaters on June 16th and let me know if you agree!

“Lightning McQueen sets out to prove to a new generation of racers that he’s still the best race car in the world.”

Starring Owen Wilson, Cristela Alonzo, Armie Hammer, Larry the Cable Guy, Bonnie Hunt, Nathan Fillion, Kerry Washington and Lea DeLaria.

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E3 2017: ‘Super Mario Odyssey’ Is Everything I Want & Much, Much More

By

Aric Sweeny

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June 14, 2017

Super Mario Odyssey is nothing short of amazing. The beautiful visuals, robust gameplay mechanics, and classic 3D Mario vibe make it my favorite game demo from this year’s E3.

Heavily inspired by Super Mario 64, Odyssey threw me into New Donk City and said, “explore”. Whether it be using Cappy to interact with the world or triple jumping onto a rooftop, the game is a huge step forward for the Super Mario franchise.

The demo I played at E3 ran for 10 minutes. Although there was a mission involved, I neglected to take it on and instead explored the city. In it were NPCs jamming to Jazz music, a jump rope mini game, and vehicles to ride; yes, Mario can ride a motorcycle in this game. And yes, it’s incredible.

The graphics were great, especially for the franchise; 60 frames-per-second was a definite, with 1080P seemingly the resolution. However, I did see some chatter on Twitter that said the game was running at 720P. As the game comes out in late October, Nintendo still has time to polish the title’s weak points, where they may lie.

What surprised me about this game is its use of motion controls. The immediate reaction upon hearing those two controvertial words is negative, but Odyssey uses this scheme to its advantage. Rather than in the Wii days, when motion controls were forced, the Swich’s games give it to fans as an option. Mario’s cap can be thrown in different directions by waving the Joy-Con. Thankfully, it works like a charm.

Super Mario Odyssey is this holiday season’s gem, no doubt. If you’re still looking to pick up a Switch, this alone is reason to make the purchase (assuming you can find one on the market, of course). Nothing about the title’s demo build put me off, which leads me to believe that we might be looking at the best Mario game yet.

Are you looking forward to Super Mario Odyssey? Sound off in the comments below. The release date for this Switch exclusive title is October 27.

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Writing

Artwork

Conclusion

From Akihabara to Anime

Idol Hell

Anime Expo 2017

Verdict

Marvel vs Capcom Infinite

Characters

Infinity stones

Story mode

The verdict?

Writing

Artwork

Conclusion

‘Cars 3’ Feels Like An Older Generation’s Fear of the Future

“I can’t go out on the track and do the same old thing; it won’t work!” – Lightning McQueen (before he goes out and does the same old thing)

Final Thoughts:

“Lightning McQueen sets out to prove to a new generation of racers that he’s still the best race car in the world.”

“I can’t go out on the track and do the same old thing; it won’t work!”
– Lightning McQueen (before he goes out and does the same old thing)