Nolan and BATMAN 3: FAR From a Done Deal?

I found this article online. This worries me!!!!........

When I got the chance to visit with David Goyer and Jonathan Nolan a year ago, one of the things I heard them tell us media folk was that they had to lobby and “convince” Chris Nolan to do THE DARK KNIGHT and they’d probably have to do the same thing for there to be a Nolan-helmed BATMAN 3.

Maybe the sale-job on Chris for a third BATMAN is going to be a really tough one this time.

Despite the fact that BOF has had some unofficial assurances that Chris would indeed return and direct a third BATMAN, industry scuttlebutt says – and has been saying – differently.

I’ve been told that while they desperately want another Chris Nolan BATMAN, Warner Bros. does have a shortlist of directors (Zack Snyder's reps told BOF that he wasn't interested) they’d consider and ultimately turn to if (and when) Nolan’s done with The Caped Crusader. And frankly, it certainly wouldn’t be prudent of them not to have such a list.

Several (and unrelated) industry friends of BOF have been telling me over the last year that it’s far from a given that Chris will do another one. And alarmingly, this one’s starting to pick up steam.

Case it point, a report I received from an old friend of the site overnight via email. This cat works in the business behind the camera and has proved to me long ago to be legit. With that said, this again is what I term “Industry Scuttlebutt,” so keep that in mind. Also, if any of my friends at Warner Bros. or reps of Mr. Nolan want to refute the following, you’ve got an open forum here. Anyway, according to our source…

* The death of Heath Ledger in January of 2008 rocked Mr. Nolan hard. So hard that Chris was convinced that TDK was going to be it for him and Batman on film.

* The Joker was going to return in BATMAN 3.

* “You are correct in reporting that he is developing story

ideas with [Jonathan Nolan] and David Goyer, but it will be until AT LEAST 2012 before we see the Caped Crusader back [in theaters]. And that is only an EARLY ESTIMATE at best right now. They are even saying it might not be until 2013.”

* Basically, the BATMAN film franchise is back to square one. As far as a story or a BATMAN 3, “Right now, there is none,” says our guy.

Now, there was some other stuff that was off the record (mainly to protect our guy's identity), but really, it doesn’t affect the jest of this story. The bottom line here is that we may be a ways away from a BATMAN 3 -- with or without Chris Nolan.

Look, I want Mr. Nolan to return as much as anyone else and have TONS of respect for him, Emma Thomas, Charles Roven, David Goyer, Jonathan Nolan, and the rest of the folks who’ve given us the BEST two BATMAN films ever. But if Chris is done, then he’s done and I’m sure as hell not going to begrudge the guy. Despite the fact that I am a “Batman Fan” first and foremost, I’ve also grown to be a big Chris Nolan fan as well. BUT…

As a Batman fan, I certainly hope that Warner Bros. has a contingent plan in place – and one much better than the one they had back in the early 90s.

Despite the bummer vibe that permeates this report, let me remind you of the positives. One, Warner Bros. has not officially announced that Chris is done and the search is underway for a new Bat-director. Secondly, Nolan himself has admitted to “musing” with David Goyer about the storyline of a third film. Third, back in February, IGN reported that Chris is the only screenwriter attached to B3 per the WGA. And finally, the same industry scuttlebutt that produced today’s story also says that Chris’ deal with WB for INCEPTION included at least a handshake agreement for BATMAN 3.

Keep those fingers crossed Bat-Fans!

(For all "on the record" and "official" info regarding BATMAN 3, CLICK HERE.)

Now Im not sure how reliable of a source this is. From what I've been hearing, it sounded as if plans were being made already for a 3rd installment of the Batman films and Nolan without a doubt in for a third go round.

But if this is true and Nolan decides not to go for the 3rd Batman film, I can't help but wonder, will a new director meet the standards that Nolan has set in the Batman film franchise. It worries me just a little.

Lois Lane Statue Put On Hold Due To Economy

I found this article online and found it incredibly interesting......

Metropolis, Illinois (CNN) -- Superman will not be saving Lois Lane this time, but the residents of Metropolis are hopeful his fans will.

Metropolis, Illinois wants a companion statue for Superman, but the economy may block its efforts.

The villain is the economy. Despite being about $70,000 shy of the funding needed to cast a figure in the image of the fictional "Daily Planet" reporter, this town of 6,000 residents says it's going forward with a ground breaking. Metropolis wants its Lois Lane statue.

There are no skyscrapers here. If you search the local telephone book you won't find any familiar names. There's no Lex Luthor or Perry White. The closest Jimmy Olsen lives in Aledo, Illinois. If you call the nearby nuclear plant and ask about kryptonite they won't take you seriously. Most days of the year you can walk about town without seeing anyone in a cape or leotard.

Very little about Metropolis, Illinois, resembles the metroplex made famous in "Action Comics," except for the constant presence of Superman. His statue stands 15-feet tall outside the Massac County Courthouse and 50 yards away is the county justice center.

In 1972, DC Comics, the current owner of the character, declared the town the official home for Superman. Since then, it's residents have fashioned a monument, a museum, and an annual festival around the superhero.

"We've had groups from as far away as Japan and Australia," said Karla Ogle, one of the festival organizers. "There's a family that comes every year from Canada."

And each year Noel Neill is honored. She's the original Lois Lane. Neill starred opposite George Reeves in the 1950s "Adventures of Superman" television series and it's her image the local chamber of commerce wants to immortalize in a statue.

The town first came up with the idea of a companion statue for Superman in 2005. A lot has changed since then, primarily the economy.

"We've been affected pretty heavily because most of our revenue comes from the casino," said Mayor Billy McDaniel. The Harrah's Casino is the closest thing this little burgh has to a tall building. "Their revenue has been down as much as 30 percent," noted McDaniel.

And the Metropolis budget is not bulletproof either. The town has not been replacing some workers as they retire, because of the lower tax receipts.

What about the prospects for Lois Lane? "If there's any money out there we're going to find it," said the mayor.

Metropolis has agreed to foot half the statue's bill, if the Illinois Board of Tourism provides a matching grant. Private donations have raised only $9,000 in four years, not even enough to pay for the monument's base.

"They were good initially, but slowed down to a trickle," said Clyde Wills with the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce. "We're committed to the project," despite the economy.

The city plans to break ground for the statue on June 11, during the opening night of their annual Superman festival, even though the state is months away from a decision on their grant request.

Lois Lane's fate, like in most issues of the comic, is "to be continued ..."

To find out more about Metropolis, Illinois, click here ----> Roadside America Website

Movie Trailer: 9

Movie Website

So there is this new movie coming out by Tim Burton on September 9, 2009. (9/9/9, get it?) It looks interesting. From the look of the preview, it seems to be getting away from Burton's typical form of animation.

Since the film debut is a ways off, information on this film is very limited. However, from the looks of it, it seems that "9" was among several little creations during a time of human extinction. I'm assuming that the creator was a scientist who died before completion of his creations. Which means little number "9" will be saving the day from some type of world shattering catastrophe.

I'm quite intrigued by the story concept and the look of the film. However, since the release date is less than 4 months away, I'm wondering when more information will be out about the films plot. But who knows, maybe Burton wants to keep most of the information about the film under wraps until it's theatrical release.

Batman #687

When it was first discovered that Dick Grayson was to become the next Batman, I thought to myself, "who else could do it?" Dick was the obvious choice, no one else has the experience, nor the capabilities of continuing the Batman legacy. One thing, however, I wasn't sure about was how the transition from his Nightwing persona to his new role as Batman would affect Dick. Moving on is, for some people, an incredibly hard thing to do, and not so hard for others. This issue of Batman displays how Dick, and everyone else within and outside the Batman family deals with the death of Bruce Wayne.

It's interesting to see Dick Grayson only wearing the cape and cowl on the last page of this issue. The rest of the book we see him wearing either regular everyday clothing, or his Nightwing costume. The very beginning of the book shows a car chase scene with Grayson in the Batmobille, but he has the Nightwing costume on. This is quite intriguing for it displays how difficult it is for Dick to accept the role of Batman. As strong willed and fearless as Dick was as Nightwing, we find him exceptionally vulnerable and hesitant in putting on the Cape and Cowl. We even find Dick, in one panel, breaking down into tears because he "wasn't ready to loose him." [Bruce]

Now this is not to say Dick is the only one grieving. Without a doubt, the scene where Alfred is asked if he is ok, and he responds "No, sir, I am not. I have just lost my son," is the most touching scene in the whole book. This visualization, done incredibly well by artist Ed Benes, of Alfred crying for the loss of Bruce is brilliant. And why not? Someone who has been with Bruce since he was a boy, who has taken care of him and fed him from a young age until he grew to be a man is the most accurate depiction of Mr. Pennyworth as a father figure to Bruce. Showing Alfred in this light is spot on. Alfred is essentially the father of Bruce Wayne. It of course doesn't help anyone that Damian Wayne is being a complete nuisance and having a terrible attitude about he whole situation. The funny thing is, the one who doesn't seem to be sad about Bruce Wayne's death, is his own son.

This was a dark and depressing issue of Batman. Scenes like Superman and Wonder Woman bringing Dick the cape and cowl, Alfred and Dick crying, Commissioner Gordon seemingly depressed because he has no idea if Batman is coming, Villains running a muck because they believe Batman to be dead, all of this and more gives this issue a sense of being in the dull drums and darkness of life. Of course this is due to the efforts of Judd Winick, but we must also give an increasing amount of credit to this issues artist, Ed Benes. I'm a huge fan of Benes' artwork and hope he continues to stay with Batman for a while longer.

So what we have thus far is the story of a returning character that we all know and love putting his Nightwing persona away, and taking up a new mantle. Right now, I still haven't fully accepted Grayson as Batman. Not because I don't think he would be astounding as the Caped Crusader, rather because Dick hasn't accepted himself as worthy of taking up this hero role. So all I can do is see how Dick handles this transition. And from the last page, it's looks pretty optimistic.

Top Ten Best Selling Graphic Novels....

Rankings reflect sales of graphic novels, for the week ending April 11, at many thousands of venues where a wide range of books are sold nationwide. These include hundreds of independent book retailers (statistically weighted to represent all such outlets); national, regional and local chains; online and multimedia entertainment retailers; university, gift, supermarket, discount department stores and newsstands. In addition, these rankings also include unit sales reported by retailers nationwide that specialize in graphic novels and comic books. An asterisk (*) indicates that a book’s sales are barely distinguishable from those of the book above. A dagger (†) indicates that some bookstores report receiving bulk orders.

You can also read my personal opinion of each graphic novel listed. Except for the Manga, I don't read those. My thoughts will be in Italics right next to the books description.

Hardcover Bestsellers

1 BATMAN: R.I.P., by Grant Morrison and Tony Daniel. (DC Comics, $24.99.) Thomas Wayne, the father of the caped crusader, is cast in a sinister light. I personally think this whole story arc was the biggest waste of time. Grant Morrison seemed to be going somewhere with the story, but it ended up being a complete flop. However, to understand all that went on with Batman's death, you might need to pick it up.

2 BATMAN: HEART OF HUSH, by Paul Dini and Dustin Nguyen. (DC Comics, $19.99.) A childhood friend of Bruce Wayne returns to plague the caped crusader anew – and Catwoman is caught in the middle. Paul Dini does not disappoint. Hush is an exceptionally interesting character and this story makes the tension between the two so much greater.

3 WATCHMEN, by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. (DC Comics, $39.99 and $75.) This epic tale from 1986 signaled a new maturity in comic books. As you all know, this is my favorite book. So if it were up to me, I'd have put this at the top. But sadly, people feel that the awful writing of Grant Morrison is better than the genius that is Alan Moore.

4 BATMAN: THE KILLING JOKE, by Alan Moore and Brian Bolland. (DC Comics, $17.99.) This critically acclaimed story from 1988 offers a possible origin for the Joker. You might recognize some of this story from the film, The Dark Knight. This was a great take on the Joker origin story. Definitely worth buying!

5 JOKER, by Brian Azzarello and Lee Bermejo. (DC Comics, $19.99.) The Joker, newly released from Arkham Asylum, deals with the rivals who have carved into his territory. This is an amazing read. You'll be dropping your jaw at every paged turn!

6 ANGEL: AFTER THE FALL, Vol. 3, by Joss Whedon, Brian Lynch, Nick Runge and David Messina. (IDW Publishing, $24.99.) Los Angeles is overrun with demons, but Angel’s struggles are just beginning. Never read it...

7 ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, Vol. 2, by Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely. (DC Comics, $19.99.) These stories, free of the barnacles of continuity, include an encounter with Zibarro, the only sane resident of the Bizarro world. Completely over rated. Morrison again brings us a pretty worthless story that would have been better left written by someone capable, or not written at all.

8 SUPERMAN: BRAINIAC, by Geoff Johns and Gary Frank. (DC Comics, $19.99.) The Man of Steel’s arch foe returns tougher than ever and is a responsible for a death in the family. i have this story arc in single issues. This was a great story arc. I was on the edge of my seat with each issue! Geoff Johns really knows how to grab you.

9 THE DRESDEN FILES: WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE, by Jim Butcher and Ardian Syaf. (Random House, $19.95.) This comic book collection is a prequel to the Dresden Files series of novels, which are part fantasy and part noir. Never read it.

10 SAGA OF SWAMP THING: BOOK 1, by Steve R. Bissette and Alan Moore. (Vertigo, $24.99.) The inspired reinvention of the classic horror character gets a new printing. Such a weird and twisted story. I love it!


Softcover Bestsellers

1 WATCHMEN, by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. (DC Comics, $39.99 and $75.) This epic tale from 1986 signaled a new maturity in comic books. This is where it should be, at the top!

2 WOLVERINE: ORIGIN, by Paul Jenkins and Andy Kubert. (Marvel Comics, $16.99.) Revealed at last: the secret history of the mutant known as Wolverine. Funny thing is, I have read this. It's surprising I know, because I'm not a marvel person. but I did enjoy this story. Paul Jenkins and Andy Kubert do amazing work.

3 V FOR VENDETTA, by Alan Moore, K. C. Carlson and David Lloyd. (Vertigo, $19.99.) A vigilante tries to free London in a world where Germany won World War II. This is always worth reading. This is probably Alan Moore's most poetic story he's ever written. the use of language is just stunning. The story is fantastically written.

4 BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, Vol. 3, by Drew Goddard and others. (Dark Horse, $15.95.) “Season eight” of Buffy continue in Tokyo where she investigates a new threat. Never read it, Buffy is more of a TV show for me than a comic.

5 THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY: APOCALYPSE SUITE, by Gerard Way and Gabriel Ba. (Dark Horse, $17.95.) A team of heroic children reunite as dysfunctional adults and are forced to join forces against a threat that is very close to home. I checked this out at the library. It's a lot of fun and worth reading.

6 BATMAN: THE DARK KNIGHT RETURNS, by Frank Miller. (DC Comics, $14.99.) Another classic from 1986: The caped crusader comes out of retirement to save Gotham City from a depraved street gang that are more monsters than man. you know, I have never really understood what people like about Frank Miller. His stories are all the same. The writing for me jumps up and down. This book was nothing special to me. but I guess if I had read it when it was first published I might have thought differently. But the story seems to be just one big gun fight. yeah, batman carrying a gun around? Sorry, I don't but it.

7 WALKING DEAD, Vol. 9, by Robert Kirkman and Charlie Adlard. (Image Comics, $14.99.) The gripping story of the human survivors in a world overrun by zombies continues. Never read it...

8 WALKING DEAD, Vol. 1, by Robert Kirkman and Tony Moore. (Image Comics, $14.99.) The gripping story of the human survivors in a world overrun by zombies continues. Never read it...

9 THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, Vol. 1, by Alan Moore and Kevin O’Neil. (America’s Best Comics, $14.99.) The gifted Mr. Moore plucks characters from classic literature (including Captain Nemo, Dr. Jekyll and the Invisible Man) to combat a criminal mastermind. this is such a fun story! The classic Victorian story characters form a team of to fight evil, who wouldn't want to read that??

10 Y THE LAST MAN: UNMANNED, Vol. 1, by Brian K. Vaughan and Pia Guerra. (Vertigo, $12.99.) The first installment of this brilliant series follows Yorick Brown, the only male survivor of a plaque that kills every other man, in his quest to find his girlfriend and the cause of the catastrophe. I've heard this and need to find time to rent it from my library. But I've heard that this Graphic Novel is worth reading.


Manga Bestsellers - sorry, I didn't include links for these. not sure where to find them. go to Amazon, I'm sure you can find everything you want there.

1 NARUTO, Vol. 43, by Masashi Kishimoto. (VIZ Media, $7.95.) Naruto’s former teammate, Sasuke, learns vital detail about his family’s past.

2 NARUTO, Vol. 44, by Masashi Kishimoto. (Viz Media, $7.95.) The secret history of Sasuke’’s family continues to be revealed.

3 NARUTO, Vol. 42, by Masashi Kishimoto. (VIZ Media, $7.95.) Naruto’s teacher Jiraiya must delve deep into the past to uncover the secret of Pain’s origin.

4 VAMPIRE KNIGHT, Vol. 6, by Matsuri Hino. (VIZ Media, $8.99.) Cross Academy has day and evening students, but the latter have a secret: they are vampires.

5 NARUTO, Vol. 41, by Masashi Kishimoto. (VIZ Media, $7.95.) A secret from the past comes back to haunt Naruto’s teacher, Jiraiya.

6 NARUTO, Vol. 40, by Masashi Kishimoto. (VIZ Media, $7.95.) A journey to the Land of Rain unveils a secret.

7 FRUITS BASKET, Vol. 22, by Natsuki Takaya. (TokyoPop, $10.99.) This series is about humans who are possessed by the animals of the Chinese zodiac.

8 GANTZ, Vol. 4, by Hiroya Oku. (Dark Horse, $12.95.) Kei Kurono died in a train accident. Or did he? He’s now stuck in a never-ending battle against alien forces, along with other human who have recently met their demise. But will the second death prove more fatal?

9 ROSARIO + VAMPIRE, Vol. 6, by Akihisa Ikeda. (VIZ Media, $7.99.) Tsukune Aono’s new school is filled with vampires and werewolves. How is a human teenager to survive?

10 NARUTO, Vol. 39, by Masashi Kishimoto. (VIZ Media, $7.95.) The ninja world of Naruto is threatened by an old enemy.



My Response:
So it really makes me off that Geoff Johns only has one book in this list, where as Grant Morrison has three. I also don't like the fact that Grant Morrison's story arc "Batman R.I.P" hit the top of the seller list when the entire story was really bad and made no sense.

Maybe I should blog about how much I hate Grant Morrison....

My Justice League

It's always talked about, who would you put in the Justice League if it were up to you? It's the ultimate fun topic to discuss. And why not, it's YOU who are in charge of deciding the ultimate super hero team. You have a say in the perfect assembly of hero's that will save the world from the evil threats of the world. How cool is that?!?!

What I have done is carefully examined possible candidates for my league, weighed their powers and the character traits against being able to work within the constraints of a team. I understand that a lot of characters are brought in to the league to help create a sense of angst and tension, but I think with a good writer on board, that can happen no matter whose on the team. So I'm going purely based on the compatibility of the league.

With that being said, I would now like to announce to the blogging world who, if it were up to me, would be in the Justice League! Please, if you have weak constitutions, I suggest bracing yourself for one heck of a line up.....


Black Canary
She has proven herself to be a valuable leader in the current league (or lack there of) and is not afraid to put teammates in their place when out of line. Thanks Brad Meltzer, I don't think I'll ever be able to see the Justice League without This powerful female ever again.








Red Tornado
This hero has been beaten up, torn apart, mangled, battered and pummeled...Yet he keeps coming back just as strong as before. Along with his interesting storyline, this hero has made a mark for himself in the Justice League history books. And being an android allows him that special ability to calculate things logically better and more intelligently than humans can typically do.







Wonder Woman
An indisputable member for the Justice League. This famous hero is an essential part of the history of the league and it would not be the same without her. She is great at being a team player, working with those who disagree with her, and has no fear. She is the strongest and most intelligent member on my league line up.









BloodWynd
I have always said it, the brief time that Bloodwynd was in the league was incredible! And he for some strange reason disappeared. his magical abilities are a crucial element for the league in those strange times where the unexplained threats need the mysterious hero figure. And even though he was very much a loner, he still acted as a team player and did what he could to assist the league.





Green Arrow
He may be old, but he sure packs one hell of a punch. If there was ever a hero who was the central core of a strike force, Green Arrow is that hero. Along with his light hearted, sarcastic nature, he provides a sharp shooters eyes that can pin point a centipede 400 miles away. It's nice to have an accurate archer on your team, don't you think?









The Atom
My answer for not having Batman in the league. The Atom is an even better scientist than the Caped Crusader. But not only that, He is able to shrink himself down to the size of an atom...maybe even smaller! Very helpful for those tiny, tiny, TINY situations in which a man who can change his size could be invaluable.



Plastic Man
Someone who can stretch his body out as far and long as he wants, into any shape he can imagine, seems to be a no brainer as a member of the league. And because of his elastic form, there isn't a whole lot out there that can hurt him. He provides a very needed comic relief for the team.









Vixen
With the ability to call upon the strength, power, speed, agility, endurance, character traits and stamina of any animal or insect in the world, I find Vixen to be a much needed addition to the league. Many times, the league requires an individual who has the ability to quickly change abilities in order to achieve a victorious outcome.






Power Girl
I have as much respect for Power Girl as I do Wonder Woman. She is not someone you want to push around. With most of the abilities of Superman, she would be this version of the leagues power house.















Nightwing
Even though Dick Grayson has taken up the Batman Mantle, this is definatly someone I could see in the league. He is not as independent as Batman, nor as stubborn. Every team needs a detective, and Dick Grayson is definitely that. Trained by Batman, Nightwing would be a great addition to the league.










Now I realize that there are two hero's that I'm sure you are wondering why I didn't put in my league line up. Superman and Batman. Well, to be perfectly honest, I don't feel that they belong in the League.

Superman, even though I can see him in the league, Is better left out. His ideals and set of principles is something the league can benefit from, however, Superman is very much a "attack now, ask questions later" type of guy. And even though I like having Superman in the league, I just don't think he is a good JLA material.

Batman, above everyone should NEVER be in the league. Batman is as stubborn as a mule and should never be allowed to be apart of a team like the Justice League. He goes behind team mates backs, he has his own way of doing things, and is much more of an independent hero than a team player. Batman's part in the league has and always will be the defiant hero who goes against the team on almost every occasion.

Anyways, that's my league. any thoughts? Comments? Disagreements? Let them be known.

Best Pixar Films

So, like my top ten greatest comic book films, im now doing my own list of the best Pixar films. but I'm not ranking them, I've thought about what made each film good and giving my own specific award to the different films. And of course I'll give a "Best Pixar Film" award. so go through the list, comment if you agree or disagree. So here is the first "Heretic Movie Awards."


Funniest Character: Dori
Everything that Dori does, even the sad parts, are hilarious! I don't think I can watch Find Nemo without busting out laughing every time Dori comes on scene.



Most "EVIL" Character: Randall Boggs
Our of all the Pixar Villians, this is the only one who shows how evil he is by his willingness to do harm to children. Oh man, I just want to punch him in the face! Way to go Boo for kicking his butt!!




Best Character That Tried To Be Evil: Chick Hicks
Yeah, he just couldn't win a race but did everything in his power to do harm to Lightning McQueen. But all of his efforts failed miserably and he ended up just embarrassing himself.



Most Ridiculous Character: Needleman and Smitty
If there were two characters that truly served no purpose in the grand scheme of a film story in the history of film making, it would be these two. But wow am I glad they are in Monsters Inc. They are absolutely hilarious.




Most Heroic Character: Wall-E
For such a little guy, he truly has a big heart and is willing to go to great lengths to save the ones he cares about. Even holding onto a rocket ship flying into outer space.



Cutest Character: Boo/Mary
I think we can all agree that Pixar animates the cutest children ever. Boo is without a doubt the most adorable little girl in the world.






Most Scandalous Character:Lizzie
The one thing any young guy in his late 20's, early 30's does not want to have happen to him above all else is have a horny grandma putting the moves on him. Yuck! But it is certainly hilarious!




Most Lovable Character:Wall-E
Yup, he wins again. Because of his kind of lovable personality, he definatly wins the most lovable award.




Best Minor Character:Edna 'E' Mode
The Incredibles just would not have been the same without Edna. She was such a creative addition to the cast of characters. But I definitely would not want to get in her way. WHEW!






Most Passionate Character: Remy
He's as passionate about food as my wife is! He invested himself into the world of cooking and overcame the obstacles that laid before him. Remy is someone everyone could look up to.





Best Character Team Up: Woody and Buzz
Yes, they were meant for each other. These two are an inseparable duo. The models of what true friendship is all about. They have issues with each other, but they stick together like it doesn't matter.





Best Male Character: Woody
He conflicted, big headed, cocky, good natured, strong willed, kind, mean, etc etc. He's everything that you and I are. Woody is the best developed character in the Pixar universe.




Best Female Character: Elastigirl
Yeah, you push around the ones she loves, she will hand you your butt in a zip lock baggie. She has no fear, exceptionally loving, and true to herself. The most impressive female in Pixar.





Funniest Film: Monsters Inc.
It's as if the laughs never stop with this movie! I never find myself not smiling or laughing with this film.






Best Action Film: The Incredibles
Oh what? Im sure you saw this one coming! Explosions, ramps made of ice, running on water, flying contraptions, karate at it's finest, you just don't get better action out of an animated film!





Best Soundtrack: Monsters Inc.
What can I say, I love jazz! This is the soundtrack I could listen to while driving on the road, while working in the house, while reading a good book, while hanging out with friends...it's just an amazing soundtrack!





Most Detail Oriented Film: Ratatouille
I left the threatre hungry. Whenever I watch this movie I need to eat. If this film pops into my head my stomach grumbles. The detail made in making the animated food look delicious was incredible. Pixar paid close attention to the craft that is cooking and brought every aspect of that craft into this film.





Most Creative: Monsters Inc.
Yup, it wins again. It is such an interesting idea. take one of the worlds biggest myths, that there are monster in our closets, and give an explanation of why that is. And what makes it even better, is that these monsters are mean! (well, for the most part) And all they are doing is trying to earn a living. Such a nice, pleasant take on the myth, and making it great for kids and parents.



Best Character Development Film: Cars
This film did a superb job at bring two worlds together. The high class uppity meets the low down desert country folks. It makes us ask the question "why can't we stop putting ourselves in different classes and just live together as people?" It did a great job at allowing each side of the characters story to be heard and understood.




Best Animated Film: Monsters Inc.
yo have hairy monsters, scaly monsters, slithery monsters, giant monsters, small monsters, firery monsters, slimy monsters, etc etc. they were so many different details to this film im surprised Pixar made it through! Plus, the backgrounds in this film were quality. The snow, the tropics, the bedrooms, the millions of different doors, the factory, etc etc. this film had to animate so many different things, i give it the best animated Pixar Film award.


Best Written Film: Up!
Without a doubt the most complex storyline in Pixars history. This film addresses infertility, death, single parenting, loss of childhood illusions, and the necessities of respecting nature. This was a mature film in it's writing aspects. I would dare say that this was probably the most difficult script for Pixar to write. I certainly hope we see more Pixar films come out with this type of writing in it.

And now
Pixars Best Overall Film:

Monsters Inc.

yes, I did give it the "Best Pixar Film" award. Why? Because it deserves it. I know everyone will have there own personal favorite but in terms of detail, writting, editing, voice talent, direction, transitions, animation, story quality, etc etc etc, it's just without a doubt the best Pixar film to date.

The story is a typical Pixar story (which is in no way a bad thing mind you) where we have a the myth that there is always something out there to get you! But what has been done is taking the stuff children stories are made of and turned them into our worst nightmare! For example, Stephen Kings "IT" takes a clown and makes it a terryfying figure that goes around and kills children. Just think back at hoe many stories your read or seen on the big screen or TV where Childrens tales have been bastardized and made into horror stories.

Monsters Inc. tears away that fear. but not only that, it breaks the myth that Evil is powered by fear. The more you fear it, the more powerful IT becomes. It takes that and shows there is something more powerful than fear and that thing can overcome the evil you fear. It's the best Myth Breaking film ive ever seen! A film for both adults and kids that tells us we don't need to live in fear all the time. I think adults can benefit from this message even more than children can, don't you think?

This film is one I never tire of watching. I think I've watched it 10 times in the last 4 months. It's honestly that good! The casting was superb, Billy Crystal teamed with John Goodman was a match made in heaven. The animation was incredible, how detailed they were about making Sully's hair flow as correctly as possibly with his movements, and how detailed they were about every unrealistic aspect of the movie is just astounding. The Music for the film is my favorite out of all the Pixar films, so much fun to listen to and move to. This and so much more. If I were told I had to get rid of all my Pixar films (because I own them that have come out on DVD) except one, Monsters Inc. would be the one I keep.

Comic Review: Batman and Robin #1 (6/4/09)

Ok, so if you read my blog, the writer I can't stand the most would be Grant Morrison. And i would avoid anything he writes if I could. Sadly, most the world seems to enjoy his stuff, therefore he gets to write the titles I read every once in a while. But I have never intentionally picked up a new comic book title that I knew he was going to be writing because I always knew it would be a disapointing read.....until now!

As I opened the open I would mutter three words repeatedly as if it were one big long word, "grantmorrisonsucksgrantmorrisonsucksgrantmorrisonsucks." This is how strongly I feel about how much Grant Morrison sucks!

I open to the first page and low and behold, there is a car chase! A carload of criminals is being chased by a flying Batmobille! (cool!) As I continually read through the pages, I was becoming more and more interested in the story. In fact, I wasn't able to put the book down. Never once did I raise an eyebrow, laugh at the story in negative ways, or throw my head back and let our a cuss word to show my disapproval in the crappiness that Grant Morrison.

The only gripe I have is, after seeing Damien Wayne in the Robin outfit, I'm not so sure Im excited about to see Damien as Robin. I honestly wish Tim Drake had stayed on with Dick Grayson as Robin. Damien is such a brat he's probably going to threaten to leave and fight crime on his own, Tell Dick off because he isn't doing the job like his dad would, or become so pissy and moody that it gets annoying....every issue! I hope Damien matures some in this new crime fighter role.

The art was fantastic. Frank Quietly has alot of critics because his art work isn't good enough for comics, but quite frankly (No pun on his name intended) I really enjoy his art work. I love how he's made it look very much like the classic Batman. Especially how the sound effects were clerverly drawn into the panels during the action sequences. Frank Quietly is one of the more artistic and clever artists in comics right now. It may not be conventional, or the way you the art to look, but he definatly brings his own unique style and cleverness to his artwork, and I greatly appriciate that.

Surprisingly overall, I very pleased with this first issue. It wasn't exceptionally well written, (he's no Alan moore or Geoff Johns) but it was definatly one of his better pieces of literature. It's worth reading. However, I am still a hater of Frank Miller! And he will have to continue to do good work this this title while he's on it before I can ever start to THINK about forgiving him for all the crap his written in the past. But I will say this, it is nice to finally see the worst comic book writer actually do something decent for a change.

Movie Review: UP!

Once again, Pixar brings another fantastic film to the big screen.

Up! is all about Carl Fredricksen, a 78 year old curmudgeonly balloon salesman, is not your average hero. When he ties thousands of balloons to his house and flies away to the wilds of South Africa, he finally fulfills his life long dream of adventure. But after discovering an 8-year-old stowaway named Russell, this unlikely duo soon find themselves on a hilarious journey in a lost world filled with danger and surprises.

I find myself always conflicted with ranking the Pixar films from year to year. Finding Nemo was fantastic, But monsters Inc was better. Wall-E was nothing but fun and cleverness, and the Incredibles was every comic Book fans dream film. Toy Story of course will always be on top because it was the first, the start, the film that put Pixar on the film making map. Pixar, in my own humble opinion has never given us a bad film.
And one thing I think that most of us can agree on is that whenever Pixar comes out with a new film, it's always a delight and worth the money to go see. I would also like to add that I personally believe Pixar makes the best animated films year after year.

for anyone who thinks this is just a goofy story about an old man and a kid and a talking dog, know that this PG-rated children's movie addresses infertility, death, single parenting, loss of childhood illusions, and the necessities of respecting nature. this is deserving of a PG rating because it deals with issues on a much more mature level and there is a lot to be learned from this film, even by your most "mature" adults.

On another level, this film had some very nostalgic issues within it. It's very much like Toy Story in the fact that it was all about wanting to continue with "what once was." Carl was unable to let go of his house, wanted to go on the adventure he and his deceased wife always dreamed of, etc etc etc. Not only that, but on the adventure he meets up with his boyhood hero! This film is nothing but nostalgia at it's best!

This film could arguable be the best Pixar film purely based on it's story telling aspect. I believe Carl is the most complex character that we have ever seen in any Pixar film to date. He starts the movie hellbent on recapturing a dream, literally burdened by his past, but ends up somewhere quite different. It's not just that the adventure opens him up to the world, but Carl makes the choice. He's the ultimate an anti-hero realizing the time has come for him to step up. This story is something I think most young children might have trouble grasping because of the complexity of the story. Even I didn't quite get it once the film was done, at least not entirely. But the message is clear in the end, that none of us want to abandon what is familar to us, but if the time comes where we must, then we must. Carl is my hero!

I also felt is if I was watching a classic film. You know, like films from the early 1940's your parents had you watch as children. I was reminded of The Wizard of Oz or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Films like these that were not concerned with being realistic, rather they were focused on telling a beautiful story built in and around a fantasy world. Films today don;t so this anymore. Yeah you have you're Harry Potter films, Lord of the Rings films, but they are all so dark and over the top. Where are the films that aren't pushing through story so fast that we, the movie watchers, have nothing to grasp onto? The only film I can think of that come close to this is The Purple Rose of Cairo. Up! is the best shout out to all of the classic films that wanted to tell the ultimate fantasy story that I have ever seen.

So don't go to Up! and expect your typical animated family film, because this is far from it. And even though I will always have a special place in my heart of Toy Story and the Incredibles, I would have to say that Up!, in terms of it's story telling aspect, is without a doubt is the best Pixar film, and arguable the best animated film ever made.

5 out of 5 stars

Green Lantern: First Flight Trailor

Green Lantern: First Flight finds test pilot Hal Jordan recruited to join the Green Lantern Corps after the death of his predecessor Abin Sur and placed under the supervision of respected senior officer Sinestro. The newly recruited officer of sector 2814 soon discovers his mentor is actually the central figure in a secret conspiracy that threatens the philosophies, traditions and hierarchy of the entire Green Lantern Corps. Hal must quickly hone his newfound powers and combat the treasonous Lanterns within the ranks to maintain order in the universe.

According to director Montgomery, the film will not focus on Jordan's origin story as that was previously covered in the Justice League: The New Frontier film: "...we really didn't want to spend a whole lot of time telling that same story over again. So in Green Lantern: First Flight, the origin story is over and done before the opening credits."

Directed by Lauren Montgomery and written by Alan Burnett. The DVD is scheduled to be released on July 28 of 2009.

My Response:

I'm completely and utterly excited for this DVD to come out. Green lantern is without a doubt the best comic DC has going right now and that's all thanks to writer Geoff Johns.

So it's a smart move in DC's part right now to release a DVD based on DC's best selling book right now. This will also get people very excited for the Green Lantern film which will released in 2011.

Here's the DVD trailor for the DVD....

Parodies of Lost

Wow, these videos are hilarious. Lost is my favorite show right now, but I find these parodies hilarious!! there are some that drag a bit, but they have some pretty hilarious parts in them. Keep in mind, if you haven't seen Lost at all, you probably wont get these videos. but for those of you who have, it'll all make sense.

If the videos don't load, just go to the youtube site and view them there.

Comic Book Convention At Living History Farms!!

Well, not exactly at Living History Farms, but right next door!

When: Sunday June 7
Where: Comfort Suites on 11167 Hickman Rd. in Urbandale, IA
Time: 10 AM to 4 PM

This guys comes to Comfort suites hotel a few times a year. it's basically his travel comic book store. If you go, don't forget your cash or check because he doesn't accept credit or debit cards. This guy typically has ALOT of stuff old and new. It's a pretty good little mini-con he puts on.

He will also be going to Iowa City on June 13th at the Travelodge on 2216 N Dodge St. (just south of I-80, exit 246) and it will run from 10AM to 4PM as well.

To get more information about where he will be, click here--->Midwest Comic Book Conventions and you will be directed to his website.


And this posting was made on Craigslist by the guy running the convention....

I am one of the sellers at the comic book convention in Urbandale on Sunday June 7! It had previously been scheduled for the 17th Not all the comics at these things are high priced collectors items!

I will be bringing over 10,000 comics that will be priced as follows: when you buy 10 or less they are $.1.oo each, if you buy more than 10 but less than 50 they are 50c each and if you buy more than 50 they are 40c each. This means you can get 50 comic books of your choice for $20! There will also be deals if you buy them by the box full!

There will be a wide variety of comics ranging in age from the 1970s to earlier this year, most will be from the major publishers (Marvel & DC) although second tier publishers (such as Dark Horse, Image, Crossgen & IDW) and also including youth oriented comics (such as Archie & Disney) will be represented. These are not all over printed comics from the 1990s, although there will be some from this time period.

Chances are you won't find any comics worth more than $50 here such as Hulk 181, Transformers 80, MiracleMan 15 or the first print of the Spider-Man Obama cover. You will however find plenty of comics that have price guid "values" in the $5 to $10 range. Since new comic books are now going for at least $2.99 each, you can buy 50 comics of your choice from me for less than 7 new ones would be at a comic book shop!

I will be set up in the center of the room.

The date of the convention is June 7 it is open from 10 AM until 4 PM. !

The Location of the event is at the Comfort Suites At Living History Farms 11167 Hickman Rd , Urbandale ( I-80 / I-35 EXIT 125)

Wonder Woman And Sexuality

So I went to half priced books and came across an issue of Wonder Woman (#219) published back in September of 1975! I went crazy! I mean, how many times will you find a comic book that old just in the racks of a second hand bookstore? And it was only $3! I didn't by it, however I did notice something on the cover that made my head tilt to the right a little bit. take a look at the cover to the right. I know it may be difficult to read what Wonder Woman is saying so I'll type it out for you.

"What are you waiting for? I've made myself HELPLESS! Now KILL ME"

As I read that, and look at Wonder Woman's demeanor, The sociologist starts to come out in me analyzing every aspect of of this cover.

Here she is the strongest comic book woman to ever be created, and she tied up, with a sexy smile and look on her face, with men huddled around and guns pointing directly at her. And of course, there's Elongated Man making a guest appearance in this issue who so suspiciously is stretched out (or erect) with a video camera taping the whole scenario. Everything about this cover screams of bondage and sexual tension. However, I wanted to make sure I wasn't just being a horny male and assuming something that isn't there. So I did a little research! Yeah for that huh?

Wonder Woman was created by a man named William Marston. He modeled Wonder Woman after to women, his wife Elizabeth Holloway Marston and Olive Byrne. These three apparently lived together in a polyamorous reletionship. These two women he believed were incredible beautiful and strong women.

Another interesting fact about this man is, he is the inventor and creator of the Lie Detector Test or the Polygraph. So I find this interesting since he did start everything with lie detection, and the only item that Wonder Woman carries is the famous "Lasso of Truth."

According to Boston University alumni magazine, Wonder Woman was created to help bring women into the mix of male dominated superhero comics. (Superman, batman, Green Lantern) It was an attempt to show that Women can be strong characters in a leading role of comics, and not just a weak, lesser "damsel in distress" type of role. When I discovered this, I it made me happy to learn that at least some people were trying to change the image of woman during World War II.

However, what I learned next maybe me say to myself "oh, nevermind."

According to wikipedia.com, Marston wrote a book called "Emotions of Normal People" back in 1928. in this book he claims that people behave on two separate axes, active or passive. the results of his findings came out this way.

• Dominance produces activity in an antagonistic environment
• Inducement produces activity in a favorable environment
• Steadiness produces passivity in a favorable environment
• Compliance produces passivity in an antagonistic environment.

His findings were as follows, Men have a notion of freedom which is very anarchic and violent, where as Women is more focused on love. This in essence makes Wonder Women the ideal sex symbol for many men.

Marston later made a statement in and issue of the American Scholar back in 1943....

"Not even girls want to be girls so long as our feminine archetype lacks force, strength, and power. Not wanting to be girls, they don't want to be tender, submissive, peace-loving as good women are. Women's strong qualities have become despised because of their weakness. The obvious remedy is to create a feminine character with all the strength of Superman plus all the allure of a good and beautiful woman."

I then learned something I did not know, although I should have known! Wonder Woman, in her early years was known most popularly by her "bondage" moments. In the case of the cover of issue 219 shown above, she is being tied up by her own lasso. Yes, the ultimate male sexual dream!

Marston was one of the few people in the early years of the super hero genre of comics that view it as an educational medium. He felt he could use Wonder Woman as a way of helping every embrace parts of themselves they never had before. In the book Men of Tomorrow by Gerard Jones, Marston is quoted saying,

"The only hope for peace is to teach people who are full of pep and unbound force to enjoy being bound ... Only when the control of self by others is more pleasant than the unbound assertion of self in human relationships can we hope for a stable, peaceful human society. ... Giving to others, being controlled by them, submitting to other people cannot possibly be enjoyable without a strong erotic element".

So William Marston, even though he lived a very much polygamous reletionship, understood that stupidity of men and women and created a female super hero who was both a symbol for men and women. Men because they enjoyed the thought of a female who could kick their royal ass, and for women because she was a strong women in a time where the woman's place was in the kitchen.

It's interesting to me because the intention of the creation of Wonder Woman was something I had never thought of. But now that I think about the history of women, especially in art, and how women were portrayed during WWII, it all makes perfect sense. But it makes me wonder, what do men get more excited over, the fantasy or the reality. Especially now when I hear alot of my friends get more excited over the animated, strong females then they do with thier own wives or girlfriends.

"That Pocahontas is a babe." "Laura Croft could kick my ass! that sounds like a hell of a time!"

So what does this imply for comics today? Now, more and more, the women are becoming younger and younger looking. Back when Justice League: Europe started back in 1989, Powergirl Girl looked like a mature adult, who looked like she was in her early 40's with the body and muscle structure of a women that age. (who took steroids of course.) Now, she looks like she's barely 20. The only thing that makes her seem older is her attitude and the way she carries hersel. But even the way her entire body is drawn, she still seems much more slendor and danty than she did in the late 80's. Has Marston's idea for the comic book heroine dwindle away into something meaningless? Or are comics now just enhancing on the concept of strong beutiful women? it seems to me that comic book women have become incredibly strong women, who look underage. is this the ultimare male fantasy, or is it something else? I dont know, im just ranting.

DC Comic Book Releases For June 2009

Click on a title that looks interesting and you will be directed to a synopsis of the storyline contained in that issue.
6/3/2009

• BATGIRL: REDEMPTION
• BATMAN AND ROBIN #1
• CARTOON NETWORK ACTION PACK #38
• DEAD ROMEO #3 (OF 6)
• FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: ESCAPE #2 (OF 6)
• FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: RUN! #2 (OF 6)
• GREEN LANTERN CORPS: SINS OF THE STAR SAPPHIRE
• GREEN LANTERN CORPS: THROUGH THE AGES
• JONAH HEX #44
• JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA: INJUSTICE LEAGUE
• LOONEY TUNES #175
• THE MIGHTY #5
• SECRET SIX #10
• SOLOMON GRUNDY #4 (OF 6)
• STRANGE ADVENTURES #4 (OF 8)
• SUPERMAN/BATMAN: FINEST WORLDS
• SUPERMAN: WORLD OF NEW KRYPTON #4 (OF 12)
• THE WARLORD #3

6/10/2009

• ACTION COMICS #878
• BATMAN #687
• BATMAN CONFIDENTIAL #30
• BILLY BATSON AND THE MAGIC OF SHAZAM! #5
• FINAL CRISIS
• FINAL CRISIS COMPANION
• THE FLASH: REBIRTH #3 (OF 5)
• FLASH: THE HUMAN RACE
• GREEN LANTERN CORPS #37
• JSA VS. KOBRA: ENGINES OF FAITH #1 (OF 6)
• R.E.B.E.L.S. #5
• RED ROBIN #1
• SCOOBY-DOO #145
• SHOWCASE PRESENTS: GREEN LANTERN VOL. 4
• THE SPIRIT #29
• SUPER FRIENDS #16
• SUPERMAN: LAST SON
• TITANS #14

6/17/2009

• ACTION COMICS ANNUAL #12
• BATMAN: STREETS OF GOTHAM #1
• BATMAN: THE BLACK CASEBOOK
• BOOSTER GOLD #21
• THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #24
• CARTOON NETWORK BLOCK PARTY #58
• FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: DANCE #2 (OF 6)
• GREEN ARROW/BLACK CANARY #21
• GREEN LANTERN: SINESTRO CORPS WAR VOL. 2
• HITMAN VOL. 1: A RAGE IN ARKHAM - NEW PRINTING
• THE OUTSIDERS #19
• POWER GIRL #2
• THE QUESTION: THE FIVE BOOKS OF BLOOD
• THE SPIRIT #30
• THE STARMAN OMNIBUS VOL. 3
• SUPERGIRL #42
• SUPERMAN/BATMAN #61
• TINY TITANS #17
• VIGILANTE #7
• WILL EISNER'S THE SPIRIT ARCHIVES VOL. 26

6/24/2009

• ALL-STAR BATMAN AND ROBIN, THE BOY WONDER VOL. 1
• BATMAN: THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #6
• DETECTIVE COMICS #854
• FINAL CRISIS AFTERMATH: INK #2 (OF 6)
• GOLDEN AGE STARMAN VOL. 2
• GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1
• GREEN LANTERN #42
• GREEN LANTERN: TALES OF THE SINESTRO CORPS
• JLA: DELUXE EDITION VOL. 2
• JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #34
• JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #28
• THE LAST DAYS OF ANIMAL MAN #2 (OF 6)
• SGT. ROCK: THE LOST BATTALION #6 (OF 6)
• SUPERMAN #689
• SUPERMAN: TALES FROM THE PHANTOM ZONE
• TEEN TITANS #72
• WONDER WOMAN #33