2008 Summer @ The Cinema

Iron Man
When I first heard that Jon Favreau would be directing this movie I wasn't sure if he could make it work. Boy, was I wrong! While I am a fan of Favreau, I didn't know if he could successfully direct a super hero movie. But from the moment I saw the trailer I knew that this would be a good one indeed. Robert Downey Jr's performance as Tony Stark/Iron Man is both excellent and hilarious. Within the first 30 seconds of the movie you realize he's going to be the "asshole that you gotta love." His sarcasm and wit keep you entertained throughout, and the flying and fighting sequences with Iron Man made me feel like a little kid again. Downey is backed up with great performances by Jeff Bridges and Terrence Howard. This would be the first of many super hero films released this summer, and this movie was a really fine start. If you are looking for an entertaining, hilarious, and intense movie then you should check out Iron Man.

Indiana Jones & The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull
It had been a long wait for Indy fans, and people were wondering if the final result would be worth the wait. But even after the movie was released there wasn't a definite answer. The reviews for this film were mixed, and even though I enjoyed the movie I must admit that it felt much different than the other Indiana Jones movies. The film delivers the classic over-the-top action sequences that the other films have, and Harrison Ford's portrayal of Indiana Jones fits perfectly with his previous performances. Several scenes felt out of place, but it was fun to have Shia LaBeouf and Cate Blanchett along for the ride. And it was great to bring Karen Allen back for another Indy movie. All in all this was a fun movie that gives you another chance to go on an adventure with Indiana Jones. And we all know that nostalgia is America's favorite pastime.

The Incredible Hulk
After the monstrosity that was HULK, Marvel decided to give this super hero franchise another shot. Would they have better luck the second time around? I wouldn't have allowed them to give it another go, beacuse I am not a fan of the Hulk. But its a good thing they did try again, because The Incredible Hulk was so much more "incredible" than its predecessor in every way. Edward Norton is the perfect Bruce Banner, and the CGI used for the new Hulk design is so much more detailed and believable. Liv Tyler's portrayal of Betty Ross was adequate, but she looked beautiful as she always does. The fight scenes with Hulk are very exciting, and the final battle with Abomination was so intense that I was gripping the arm rests on my seat. The final surprise at the end of the movie ties it in with Iron Man and helps build towards the Avengers movie that is on its way. If you like super hero movies, please check this one out.

Kung Fu Panda
I went into this movie with very low expectations, even though it features the voice of one of my favorite actors in Jack Black. And I was fairly pleased with what I received. Much of the dialogue in the film is very much JB influenced, and that was probably the best part of the movie. The story is pretty standard in that it focuses on Panda (Jack Black) having to overcome the odds and prove that he is the Dragon Warrior, despite nobody believing in him. Nothing too creative here. But children will love this movie, and adults won't mind it either. This movie brought about my favorite word of the summer with "Sca-doosh".

Wall-E
This was another movie I went to with low expectations. I guess I just have a grudge against CGI childrens movies. But I was pleasantly surprised with how adorable and loveable this movie and this character are. Wall-E is the last robot of his kind, and his mission is to clean up the filth left on earth by people who have gone to live in space. Wall-E falls in love with a robot from space named Eva, and it becomes their goal to show to the human race that earth is habitable again. The relationship between Wall-E and Eva is very cute, and Wall-E's human-like qualities are very humorous. It had the typical Disney movie feel to it, but it was a refreshing feeling. This is another film that is fun for children and adults alike. If you want to relax and enjoy a heartwarming story, please do yourself a favor and watch Wall-E.

Hancock
I was pretty sure I was going to like this movie from the moment I heard the concept behind it. I was told this movie was about a drunken bum who was also a super hero. 'Nuff said. The movie gave me exactly what I wanted, and Will Smith got me to like him again. It had been a while since I had seen a really good Will Smith movie, and his portrayal of a homeless asshole is hilarious. When the character of Hancock becomes more serious about his super hero role in society the film loses some of its charm. But you don't forget who Hancock was and who he is inside, so that helps to carry you through. The film also feature the gorgeous Charlize Theron and the funny Jason Bateman. The plot is somewhat questionable, but the focus of this film is on the character of Hancock. And he is going to be remembered for years to come. This is a fun spin on the super hero film genre, and I highly recommend it.

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army
If you weren't a fan of the first Hellboy, there is no reason to believe that you will like this sequel. But if you did enjoy the first Hellboy, then I believe you will find this movie to be even better. Ron Perlman returns as the bulky red hero Hellboy, and he's bringing a lot of great action sequences with him. There aren't many fun "creature" movies made anymore, but Hellboy delivers to people looking for that kind of entertainment. The movie focuses more on Hellboy's relationship with his girlfriend Liz (Selma Blair) and how he can possibly fit in with society. As stated before, the action sequences are amazing and the movie is one of the most visually stimulating films I have seen in a long time. Don't come to this film looking for a realistic portrayal of the world, because you will be outrageously dissappointed. But this is supposed to be a fun cinematic ride, and it is very entertaining indeed.

The Dark Knight
I had been looking forward to this movie for three long years, so needless to say my expectations were very high. And director Christopher Nolan blew me away with this film. All of my expectations were surpassed. Christian Bale reprises his role as Bruce Wayne/Batman alongside other Batman Begins actors Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, and Morgan Freeman. But the three new additions to this cast were the ones that stole the show. Maggie Gyllenhaal picks up the role of Rachel Dawes, and she outperforms Katie Holmes ten times over. Aaron Eckhart plays the role of Harvey Dent and does a spectacular job of making him lovable, despite his grim future. And the main star of this film is the late Heath Ledger. Ledger's portrayal of the Joker is immaculate. He is creepy, funny, lovable, and hateable all at the same time. Sorry Mr. Nicholson, you are no longer deserving of your reputation as the best Joker. Heath Ledger is the man now, and it is such a shame that we will not get to see him perform anymore. The Dark Knight is THE movie to see this summer. This is not only the best super hero movie I have ever seen, it is one of the best movies I have ever seen period. GO SEE IT!

Cool Comics

Hey all,

I don't remember if you remember the Nietzsche Family Circus (link on the previous blog), but I think this is on par with it - mediocre comics turned into a commentary on the existential angst of postmodern society. It's called Garfield minus Garfield, and you can find it here. Basically, they're just Garfield comic strips from which every character has been removed except Jon, Garfield's loser-owner. I thought some were pretty brilliant, some of which are shown above. I hope everyone's having a good summer.

Eureka!

It is said that Archimedes experienced a revelation in the bathtub. This morning, I experienced one in the shower. Although Archimedes was so excited about his revelation that he jumped out of the tub and ran through the streets naked, I decided to blog about mine. Here it is:

Over Christmas break, we will have Papermania 2008.

Yes, it's been too long since paper met table. I long to again hold that wide-ruled triangle of destiny between my fingers. The characters, the trademark moves, the frustrations, the rivalries, and the coveted trophy. It is time to revive the greatest game to come out of the PHS band room, time to revive the past...time to relive the glory.

Here are my proposals:

1. I propose that we host the tournament at the Pike County Farm Bureau auditorium (alternatives would be Crossroads Center, Methodist Church perhaps). It would be hassle-free and perhaps money-free. We could all chip in a few bucks for food and refreshments too.

2. It should be a double-elimination tournament so that you can have the chance to battle back and win the championship.

3. We need as many of the original players as possible and invite new players as well- I think we should get as many people as possible.

4. In order to finish the tournament in one day, we should end each game at first player to reach 20 points or 30 minutes- whichever comes first.

5. We should arrange at least one practice day for players to come down to the tables and practice so we all don't show up to the tournament cold.

How does everyone feel about these proposals? Please share your thoughts as well as any memories you have about paper football. To be honest, I have forgotten most of our character names (even my own :( ) and many of the moves. I think that Kyle "The Champion" Frere still holds the title, but I'm not positive. Where is the trophy currently? Someone in Pittsfield needs to hit up Adam Johnson, because I think he has the last tournament bracket, and he can help set up the new one. I'm going to make a facebook group for this- feel free to invite others.

Needless to say, I'm very excited about this, and I think we can make this a big event. Let's hear your thoughts.

Roderick, out