Iron Man: Rise of Technovore (2013)

If it ain’t (Marvel) broke, don’t (Anime) fix it!

Sony Pictures Entertainment Japan in association with Madhouse and Marvel Entertainment present…

Based on and influenced from Marvel’s direct collaboration with Madhouse anime series of the aforementioned Golden Avenger! The Direct to DVD serves both as catalyst and a curtain raiser for the movie “Iron Man 3” which had mixed critics on the given premise but still hauled in an amassed 1.2 billion dollars worldwide!

Directed by Hiroshi Hamazaki (Highlander: The Search for Vengeance) who started as an animator with great epic anime films like “Ninja Scroll”, “X”, “Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust” and “Metropolis”. Having laid all his cards and had a near perfect run from his last projects, it is clearly shown that he was definitely green in directing! It was bearing enough to just follow the “unfortunate” fugitive on the run while planning a counter offensive to his “invincible” opponent and the Director has no idea on how to give a narrative to be spontaneous and focused.

As we go back to the main protagonist who was exactly on the run from the authorities and from S.H.I.E.L.D., Tony Stark who was voiced by Matthew Mercer (Resident Evil: Damnation) have jump started the space program that will launch his “father” in outer space (pun intended). Matthew had a little resemblance with Robert’s flair while making it grounded when the situation arises. He wanted to ensure people from around the world that there is someone (or something) “watching” over them which has come to a standstill when a megalomaniac attacks and kills everyone on site!

While his overeager opponent’s objective is to make a new world order out of his image and at the same time to make Tony Stark’s technology become obsolete, Eric Bauza (G.I. Joe: Resolute) as insane in the membrane Ezekiel Stane comes steps into the spot light! Created by Writer Matt Fraction and Artist Barry Kitson, he first appeared in “The Order” No. 8 published on April 2008. A genius level intellect who is literally a “ghost in the machine” someone who has no permanent address, no bank account, no loyalty nor respect for any creed or the law. He was the son of Obadiah Stane who worked for Stark Industries and was a former friend of Tony Stark. His penchant for superiority overcomes even his desire to get the attention of Iron Man while babbling his nonsensical, personal ideologies and showing off his “knock-off” ingenuity to the same person he stole it from!

Same grit and less the talk more on the walking away from bullet riddled criminals Norman Reedus (Walking Dead) portrays The Punisher who was actually a sight for sore-eyes seeing that he was less than expected to appear on an “only Avengers” leaned on adventure (okay Civil War junkies don’t get upset he was a member for a short period). I believe the character was only included as if it was necessary to prolong action sequences, dialogue and a little bit of diversity upon stating the obvious premise. Norman has come a long way with his career and “frankly” has the experience already working with these guys way back in 2002’s “Blade II”.

To add, keeping these two agents from the Armored Avenger’s back, Natalia Romanova aka The Black Widow is played by Clare Grant (Black Snake Moan) and her wily partner Hawkeye aka Clint Barton was portrayed by Troy Baker (Avenger’s Assemble) both talents have the same mindset on how their roles are going to played, seek out and capture the perpetrator and make use of the time so as to compensate it’s lack of intuitive and intellectual content.

To be honest I was really not aware with these people yet but James Mathis III (The Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes) who also voiced a few characters from the hit recently concluded animated series. He plays best buddy Col. James Rhodes who now wears the War Machine armor and acts as liaison with the United States and Tony’s weapon projects. While Pepper Potts really does need a vacation especially with the kind of boyfriend she has Kate Higgins (Naruto Shippuden: Inheritors of the Will of Fire) sets the tone for the affable assistant turned CEO.

The dialogue written by Brandon Auman (Dead Space: Aftermath) together with Voice Director Mary Elizabeth McGlynn (Ghost on the Shell) was absolutely boring! It was not even enough that delivery was dead pan with all its seriousness but worse was that how it syncs in with the storytelling with all the hyper activity influenced and placed by Madhouse to bring it front and center deteriorates it more. On the good part, some elements on the Marvel Cinematic Universe were injected here and there like the use of his “armor brief case” which was used in “Iron Man 2”. While a short background of Obadiah Stane as the father of the villain who was played by Jeff Bridges in the first live action film “Iron Man” was set to make it relatable to new viewers.

The film became a visually stunning which is taken already, anime has always been a chameleon by nature when needed, flamboyant or serene whatever the case may be. When east meets west dynamic had ante-up the capacity and potential of animation putting it on balls to the wall. Madhouse’s creativity with imagery has been one of the greats but only into that extent. We take a look further on its plot which was ambitious but never gotten too far in terms of content and direction. First, we always have been asserted that Iron Man has very few foes and to capacitate someone or something that can actually throw him off the ground with enough ingenuity or firepower has been an overstatement.

So it goes without saying, the film was like watching a cockroach whose antennas were cut off and does not know where to go or how will it stand up, well until it dies anyway and gets devoured by ants before its remains are swept off with the wind…or someone with “repulsor technology” passes by!

The Avengers (2012)

And there came a day, a day unlike any other when the “House of Ideas” finally synergized a monumental assemblage in film history!

Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

From the pages of Marvel Comics! It started with a sibling rivalry but even more than this, they were gods! Loki the god of Mischief and Lies seeks revenge to the god of Thunder Thor! Debuted in Avengers No. 1 on September 1963 when Loki aggravated a “very angry man-monster” known as the Hulk to cause so much destruction! Together, they thwarted the manipulative trickster and formed an ever growing alliance and from this point on, creators Stan “The Man “Lee and Jack Kirby could have not been any prouder!

Within 4 years, 5 movies and 6 superheroes comes a once in a lifetime opportunity to gather Earth’s Mightiest in one epic motion picture, let the battle cry ring forth… Avengers Assemble!

Director Joss Whedon (Serenity) was able to make this film come into sweet fruition! After his stints with different commendable shows and TV series like Angel, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Firefly and the latest Dollhouse, the main man was able to wield Marvel’s and Walt Disney’s knighthood and ante-up his status quo for the legions of fans and the audiences alike! The culmination of world renowned superheroes that were brought to life in the storylines of these films has been sealed in the Marvel Cinematic Universe! CEO Avi Arad and President Kevin Fiege who produced their comic book pages to the big screen once again pulled the best resources and helped bring in the first of its kind, truly a pioneer of ingenuity and commitment not just to enthuse entertainment but to raise  the level of cinema making to be at its finest!

So now, let’s start our roll call shall we!

THE IRONY OF BEING IRON MAN

After so much media hype while traversing the spotlight and two very successful presiding Marvel films, Robert Downey Jr. (Air America) has finally come out of his shell! He is Iron Man without a doubt, without question! Robert has successfully came back into the mainstream of doing films that sparks and invigorates the masses with his calibre performance, for instilling charisma on and off the screen defining how truly he can turn the ship around and more importantly to make things happen!

Though, there is something different with Robert’s performance on screen from his previous two films, he was the centre of attraction there but here, his interjection was for everybody to feel and enjoy especially with Steve Rogers as the main point of an on-going argument. There was friction reminding ourselves in the comic books that these team leaders do have very different ideals in the battlefield. While having a little elbow rubbing with Thor (dream on Tony) he even found a kindred spirit with Bruce Banner (nerd alert)!

His persona for being Anthony Edward Stark in the franchise has gone beyond the means to prove to everyone that in spite of his humongous ego, he is determined to protect his country and the world from domestic and foreign threats alike! So the irony is, deep down inside the “arc reactor” heart  of his lies the “greatest superhero” there is, at least in his own mind!

WHO SAYS “REALLY” GOOD GUYS FINISH LAST?

Definitely not as bulky before Captain America went into hibernation! You have heard him voice a Hockey masked outlaw in TMNT, Push his way to the limit, had more sarcastic bantering than his catch phrase “Flame on!” and he even became a Loser from the other side of town! Chris Evans (Street Kings) morphed his way to so many character driven stories you can say he’s playing in the big league right now!

Chris’s impression of the Star Spangled Avenger has been adequately profound letting a little bit of his angst glide through the surface especially with Tony Stark’s bolstering personality to whom he sees as a deterrent from the mission at hand for starters, being self-centred! With some key moments, the super soldier though tries his best to be part of a non-conforming team least to say he’s time lost conundrums made him more susceptible to the upfront clashes from people with different backgrounds! He makes it a point that objectives are followed and accomplished especially in the sense of implementing teamwork…in which case, obviously he thinks it’s up to him to knock some sense out of the group and inspire them with genuine leadership!

MARK MY WORDS MARKSMAN, MARK MY WORDS!

If you may ask I’m not threatening Jeremy Renner (S.W.A.T) it may sound condescending but it was meant to praise the guy, come on! Jeremy is everywhere and his projects will pour in just like his arrows raining down on enemy targets!

Though he did not have that instinctive wit nor humour, even being introduced as a conspirator of bigger things to come! He made it to the team and that was important enough for most people. We don’t need to exaggerate but at least give him something worth to remember especially with his costume they were so plain! Face value counts yes, but he wasn’t given any priority when it comes to his acrobatic skills and his trick arrows. Still, Jeremy gave a lot of fans hope becoming part of the team was something to look forward too!

EVEN A SPY CRIES SOMETIMES…(PSYCHE!!!)

The only rose in a bush of thorns! (well, in field duty to be precise) Scarlett Johansson (Lost in Translation) works her way around the testosterone dominated flick! Her intentions are kept under wraps seeing that she has a way to extract information without using physical contact first and it rather ends well. Instances that at least give her the spotlight in specific scenes that makes it lucrative for the team to convey her given role substantially!

Before her performance in Iron Man 2 in 2010, Emily Blunt was offered the role but turned it down, she was again approached to be the lead for Captain America: The First Avenger in 2011 but still did not see it as her “cup of tea”, I wish she had given it a chance especially for Black Widow it’s easier for her to be distinguished as European since she hails from England. Even there was a clamour for Olga Kurylenko who was actually Russian in the first place and has great potential in different genres additionally, she can do fight scenes if needed! Bottom-line, Scarlett was not plausible enough for the character being portrayed let alone her looks and delivery of mere antics!

TO SHIELD OR NOT TO SHIELD? THAT IS THE QUESTION!

Samuel Jackson (Rules of Engagement) as Director Nick Fury trying to do his best to get his “response” team” to be up and running! Sam will always be someone who adds levity to the story or drag it down with his own convenience needless to say that he was significant to the group’s formation and his Lieutenant Cobie Smulders (Walking Tall) portrays Maria Hill as a “yes woman” who even tries hard to get the jargons with ship specifications out of her mouth convincingly. But nevertheless, her presence and adamant stature towards her work and commitment to the team brings a tinge of how really important she is not just with SHIELD but with the Avengers Universe as well!

Of course, yes, we won’t forget the guy who introduced SHIELD from 2008’s Iron Man! Clark Gregg (We Were Soldiers) was a hero indeed; Agent Phil Coulson has been in most MCU films coming from the rest of the cast! Always instilling a sense of custodianship and mission briefings only he can be oriented by Commander Fury himself…if you want it done right choose the best soldier! This is where the fan service kicks in, you will need a diabolical deed in order to motivate your subordinates, it works but not too compelling just to rescue everyone from utter annihilation!

HE’S NOT HEAVY HE’S MY BROTHER!

The unofficial sparring partner of the “Green Goliath” Chris Hemsworth (Star Trek) is the distraught Thunder god, his involvement with the premise is more personal and everyone knows that his brother is the main problem that they need to deal with so that chasms from the sky won’t bring destruction to the human race! It’s like, “Bro, what’s wrong with you man?” and Loki answers “I hate you, I’m vexed, you’re despicable!” so this is how the two siblings talk, I might add that their brewing anger for one another has set the tone for making their Father to make some emergency calls just to let his son get back to Midgard and drag his little brother’s sorry ass back to Asgard!

Chris only had a few stints with TV shows in his belt before becoming recognized, he was given so through Star Trek XI! For Thor, he made his character uncontested, powerful and with a lot of conviction seeing that even if he was playing god, he knows what his duty and does not condone to any compromise when it comes to saving everyone from either his home world or for Earth!

A BRANDED MONSTER BUT A HERO WITH A HEART!

The break out performer (thunderous applause) to shut everyone up! Mark Ruffalo (My Life Without Me) I’m still laughing trying to fit in the best complimentary film to bring Mark’s gesture of the rampaging brute known throughout the country and now the cosmos! Hiding away from the military and from people, he resided at Bella Coola, Canada then recently founded at calcutta, India for a time until he got recruited!

If you can imagine that there were already 3 gifted actors who portrayed the lumbering giant, Eric Bana’s take on 2003’s Hulk (not included in the MCU) was capping the monster inside the best way that he could only to release him through his repressed anger (why won’t you love me Dada?), while Edward Norton had the means to sustain it, through practice and meditation but it was meant to get out every time he feels excited and bullied, realizing  a lot of times that he was already being hunted down incessantly by the military and finally Mark who knows that his “secret” is his power and definitely he shows to the audience that he can control it without hesitation!

Mark replaced Edward from the last film The Incredible Hulk on 2008. He and Marvel were ostracized especially by fans for taking away Edward just like that, but he was given by the film Producers and Director Joss a special part to prove them wrong and to make him memorable by making his version of the Hulk his own even to the point of personally acting him through stop motion capture technology by ILM and Weta Digital! The big guy pulled through and did not disappoint! By the way, don’t call him a Gorilla or an Ape or worst a “Dull Creature” unless you would like to be wiped literally on the pavement!

LEAST WE NOT FORGET, MR. LAUFEYSON…WOULD YOU KINDLY DEFINE A GOD?

Seriously, Tom Hiddleston (Unrelated) a very upset man-child throwing his tantrums as he wants to rule the world! Since he can’t have his hands on Asgard thus he leaned towards Midgard instead! Absolutely remarkable, actually he is a one man show coming from the left wing fascism! He wants all of the people to kneel down before him (General Zod would not be pleased) but he can’t actually do as he pleases, you see even after he stole the “Tesseract” aka “The Cosmic Cube” upon which with unlimited power will be the source of his omnipotence, it will also be the cause of his damnation!  Seeing that there was an underlying agreement between him and a conspirator just lurking in the shadows…

He became my next influential villain being portrayed in the long line of Comic Book Movies (Joker is still King, so get in line!). With Tom enjoying all the attention from these so called “mortals”, he eventually provides misdirection in order for him to capitalize in his worldly conquest! Tom did his job, everyone did but his performance rocked the Avenger’s world quite literally and he would not have it any other way!

THE SPOILS OF WAR…

The main thing that people should consider as to why this MCU worked is that by putting together a World War II time lost Super Soldier, a Deity of the Heavens, an organic Tank with a boundless temper, a Russian Spy, an American Marksman Agent and finally a Man who wears a “hi-tech prosthesis”, even with different point of views, disposition and motives they all have one thing in mind and that is to save humanity and the planet!

Their conformity to adjust in given situations bringing a superfluous argumentation on multi level story arcs was well-intended to unify the team no matter the costs! Personally, it was even more daunting for Thor to have this burden seeing that his step-brother has caused all of this chaos for the sake of vanity and power! This is where they step-up, this is where they disregard their diversity, to find a way to the core of their strength…

With minor setbacks including cheesy one liners especially in the prologue, rhetorical questions, mortal beings not having enough “extraordinary” skill sets to bring up to pace with the other “inhuman” contestants while being staged with stationary assignments plus prioritization for the cameras to work on their limited magic especially for Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow where CGI and VFX are taken to a slim chance of undertaking their supposed “awesomeness”!

As I’ve suspected, this didn’t turn out to be fundamentally “short” (so was the film) there were so many things you can discuss on how they were able to make the story easily cosmopolitan, as it encompasses the objectives Director Joss and casts supplied the right amount of laugh out loud comedic situations, spectacular fight action scenes and supplemental drama which was not overtly protruding to give away their weak points but rather to assert to themselves that if they can’t hold true in protecting Earth…rest assured they will Avenge it!

Post credits had become the norm for these films, setting up machinations that are “beyond” villainy and intent of malice! Bereft, the alien life forms called Chitauri whose sworn allegiance fall into the one who assisted in the “invasion” has been given with more questions than answers, how will they be able to subdue these species called “humans” and make them burn? While a being called “The Other” gives counsel to a so-called “Mad Titan”, as this massive demigod slyly grins, there is no doubt that “Death” will not be far behind…your move!

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

Prolific and nostalgic in its premise that needs a little more BAM, KAPOW, ZAP to bring down HYDRA!

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

“When Captain America throws his mighty shield, all those who chose to oppose his shield must yield. If he’s led to a fight and a duel is due, then the red and white and the blue’ll come through When Captain America throws his mighty shield.” – Captain America (1966)

The serum induced soldier debuted on March 1941 in Captain America Comics No. 1 which gave life to one of the most altruistic and ardent superhero characters of all time! Created by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby, the motive was to alleviate the war torn era from depression and with well intentions, to battle the forces of Nazi Germany under the iron fist of Adolf Hitler! Captain America did not disappoint as he fought his way to freedom with comrades at arms until America and the whole world was liberated from tyranny and oppression! (roger that)

Summer has just started and the box office films keep lining them up at the till that makes the ambiance exciting to the senses! I was more keen and hyped up when I was about to watch Thor and it proved me otherwise! Definitely not a fan of the Star Spangled Avenger but indeed was applaudable in its own respect!

So here it is, the end to the fill, the series of novels that reached its climax, the last piece of the puzzle is in place! What can you ask for? Still plenty of course but we’ll get there one sequence at a time!

Director Joe Johnston (The Rocketeer) brings the all American hero to the big screen with a big bang! (well there’s more actually). Set in the fields of World War 2 where the disposition for power has been catapulted to greater heights! Joe made it surreal with amazing backgrounds and sets in this action extravaganza that clearly showed the lore of the Legend! While making the dialogue work are Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (The Life and Death of Peter Sellers).

Chris Evans (The Losers) plays the titular role (who by the way declined the offer three times)…Steven “Scrawny” Rogers better known to the free world as Captain America! So Chris got tired of saying “flame on” and found himself a retardant suit. His portrayal to say the least was genuine and composed! He made us believe that even guys who are picked on and stabbed at have a chance to become someone who we can look up to (physically!) At least his portrayal of the character was not considered blasphemous and can hold his own from the need of being comedic to forlorn (don’t cry, you could always go back to Marvel to play Deadpool…ok?) Overall, Chris did a wonderful job even without trying to be a superhero…he is a hero with a heart!

Supporting casts have made more emphasis on the life of Steve since they were the ones who helped him to become something more than just a patriot with genuine proclivities but to serve as a catalyst to make him the last ace in their sleeves!

Dream girl and “the right partner” Hayley Atwell (Cassandra’s Dream) plays love interest and woman in uniform Peggy Carter, refined, full of charisma and a tough as nails soldier, she was confidently well acted and covers not just your typical damsel in distress type but rather gives more promise on her duties between her country and her love life.

Sebastian Stan (The Black Swan) is the no non-sense side kick Bucky (not puny either!) this version was way better and his dynamic with Cap was not just grounded on war camaraderie but being the best of friends through thick and thin (now I know why he was called the Winter Soldier…pun!)

Bringing in veteran actor Tommy Lee Jones (US Marshalls) hopefully could sway more audience to watch the “Stars and Stripes” flick! He plays Col. Chester Philips, reluctant for the boy and prefers his number one soldier but Dr. Erskine seemed a little more persuasive! Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones) is German scientist Dr. Abraham Erskine who actually perfected the serum for Operation: Rebirth which made him learn the truth about its power and that’s why he chose Steven Rogers for the program. He also mentioned a very important thing “You are not the perfect soldier, but a good man!” truly, he is indeed that and much more! It permeates even better from their new found friendship, Dr. Erskine is the closest thing to Steve Rogers as a father to a son and that gives him the needed distinction to not just realize his potential to win the war but to save the world as a true hero! Stanley gave his character depth and meaning keeping the story bounded by the ideal of the truth and that is humans as we know it are good in essence but so susceptible to malignant ways!

Dominic Cooper (The Duchess) is the dashing, flamboyant inventor genius Howard Stark whose expertise and financial capacity helped the flimsy man turn into a pumped up line backer! He was crucial to the program that emphasized to the connections from previous films that are part of a bigger, elaborate plan! (Dad, can I play with your city? not now Tony Daddy’s busy looking for your team mate!)

Fan favorite Hugo Weaving (The Matrix) is Johann Schmidt, turned into The Red Skull after a freak experiment (flashback…roll film!). He was defiant and at the same time defenseless, his goal was to target “everything” and yes it falls like a customer service orientation motto for McDonald’s “Serving Billions” commitment. This is for goodness sake Hugo “Freaking” Weaving one of the most notorious, unrelenting, menacing villain portrayals in the history of cinema and in here, he was bland and without compromise mediocre, he can’t pull the character together and to add insult, even with Dr. Zola was around and with his legion of “Storm Trooper” wannabees they can’t do anything right for that organization! (my apologies, HAIL HYDRA!) Maybe Joe needed him to be angrier, you know with a temper that can match his crimson facade of a face! (Baron Zemo and MODOK giggling on the sidelines) Only thing that sold me was the stand-off at the bridge in which I can say looked epic!

Toby Jones (Your Highness) is Dr. Arnim Zola the sidekick (puny!) of the mad schemer! Actually with both of them running the organisation (HAIL HYDRA!) it will be a lot of tinkering and implementation, considering that you have goons with the best weaponry and technology available in the planet who can’t even aim right and with these two alone, conquering the world will be a severe workload! (now I get it, that’s why when you cut their head off, two more will grow back in    its place) talk about tactical intelligence…

Speaking of which, actually two Invader members were introduced as well in the film, the first one of course was the android Jim Hammonds better known as the original Human Torch (screaming, let me out of here!) and the second one was in the battlefield with the Captain, J.J. Field (Centurion) his name was James Montgomery Falsworth also known as the first Union Jack of Great Britain. Wish that Sub-Mariner was there but hey, maybe there are already too many elephants in the room!

A very engaging film that exemplifies heroism and patriotism, Director Joe Johnston and crew delivered what’s true to the roots of the war hero which made it easier to digest. Though there were still a truck load of haters, we can’t please everybody right? Over rated sci-fi elements from an era that was still developing technology, mysticism, CGI and green screen effects, fast forwarded moments that I believe can still capture the essence of the story.

This is a comic book film, if anyone had their way, it will also be different but with the same “out of the box” treatment to make it more appealing (especially for the fan boys). But seriously, I hand it over to Marvel’s staff for making The First Avenger a memorable one!

With that said, Paramount Pictures have so much earning films in its belt coming from the House of Ideas, sadly Captain America will be its last since Disney acquired Marvel and will give the next films to be in their own money bank!

So, the icing on the cake it is! First it was Iron Man (with Black Widow), then the Hulk, then Thor (with Hawkeye) and now Captain America. The team is standing by and awaiting for further orders from the man himself Nick Fury who says the Avengers will be “his” turn in the spotlight! (right!) So sit back relax and enjoy the film! Just be careful with the shield’s ricochet it might… hit you!?!

Thor (2011)

A visual spectacle to behold as Thor unleashes a storm of its myth and lore that brings the film to life!

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

“Across the Rainbow Bridge of Asgard where the booming heaven’s roar, you’ll behold in breathless wonder the God of Thunder Mighty Thor!” – The Mighty Thor (1966)

Stan “The Man” Lee, Larry Lieber and Jack Kirby anointed the birth of “The Thunderer” in Journey Into Mystery No. 83 on August 1962. Another comic book film was given breath from the pages of Marvel! The creators that brought us “Blade”, “Spider-Man”, “X-Men”, “Hulk”, “Fantastic Farts”…my bad, my bad its Four (and some so called heroes which are definitely not needed to be mentioned).

A round of thunderous applause please! From Asgard, the one, the only God of Thunder…THOR!

Director Kenneth Branagh (Shakespeare in Love) had brought science and magic into one whole spectrum which made this film thundering to behold! A great chemistry, he was able to put together a cast that belonged to different realms and yet gave it credence to make it work as one cohesive unit.

Anthony Hopkins (Silence of the Lambs) is Odin whose wisdom is on par with his power as the omnipotent King of Asgard, husband to Frigga played by Rene Russo (The Thomas Crowne Affair). His obligation is to protect the sanctity of the Nine Realms and an attack in Midgard ended the war and brought forth peace to the lands…or so it seems!

He was able to confiscate the Casket of Winters from King Laufey of the Frost Giants, Colm Feore brings him to cold life as one of the antagonists of the film. There was no exaggeration for the ice dwellers that we see in the animation which I really did appreciate; it was better and more believable! Though, the war from the first part was looking more like a face-off with Orcs and Humans. In a twisted fate, Odin took even one more gift or curse that will be the undoing of all that has yet to come!

Chris Hemsworth (Star Trek XI) brings to life Thor, heir to the throne of Asgard! Arrogant and headstrong, he led his warriors and paved the way to Ragnarok! Upon returning to Asgard, he was unrepentant and was cast out to Midgard as punishment and to give him the lesson of sacrifice and humility! Crashing into Earth, he meets or should I say run over by scientist extraordinaire Jane Foster, played by Academy Award Winner Natalie Portman (Black Swan) who provides Thor the needed outlook, for him to be able to find himself and his inner strength again!

Enter Agent Coulson of SHIELD, Clark Gregg (500 Days of Summer) returns the third time in this smorgasbord of films to investigate the fallen Hammer in the desert and well…throw in a few Agents to test the mettle of the Thunderer! By the way, someone was trying to shoot an ARROW right?!?!

Awesome battle sequences and it did show how Thor easily one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe can trample hundreds in one blow!

It was a unique display of power on how Thor gave his mortal strength and force just to lift his Hammer Mjolnir where in fact it doesn’t need to be wedged on the rock at all, it was his mortal soul, his unselfish sacrifice that gave his mojo back!

The best role that I recognized was from Tom Hiddleston’s (The Gathering Storm) portrayal of the God of Lies, Loki whose life and history was always more than meets the eye! He really made an impression on how he delivered his character, subtle and yet it creeps out, lingers its tendrils to a more driven malevolent plot and purpose.

To add, at least Ray Stevenson (Punisher Warzone) more like Wastezone! Who plays Volstagg of the Warriors Three will be receiving a definitely higher pay check from this film, not bad for wearing a beard, a belly and a few lines. Idris Elba the Gatekeeper Heimdall who is also with accolades, he did very well to play his part.

Stories like this are meant to be fantastic; making it with absolute diligence is a must! The Screenplay brought forth by Ashley Miller (The Twilight Zone), Zack Stentz (Agent Cody Banks) and Don Payne (My Super Ex-Girlfriend) in collaboration with multi-platform Writer J. Michael Stracynski (Forbidden Planet) and Mark Petrosovich (Poseidon) all did their homework very well! They made a very remarkable job indeed and for the record, they even wrote another 2011 hit X-Men First Class which is under the same banner! The premise holds a grandeur capacity from a fallen god to a selfless hero with the Director’s guidance, staging each scenario was very well-paced while complimenting its dynamic storytelling and delivery from the cast!

Bo Welch (Batman Returns) heads, commands the Production Design and will always be one of the industry’s best, even coming from previous projects of WB and DC; he gave Thor the experience that is surreal to the senses! The budget given did really pay off and utilized very well. Every set intended for a specific realm and sequence has been made and supervised very promptly and with earnest demeanor! Making it as realistic and at the same time fantasy laden from Asgard, to Jotenheim and finally to Earth or in their own terms, Midgard! Cinematographer Haris Zambarloukos (Venus) cameras at work proves worthy of the breathtaking CGI and actual landscapes to encompass Yggdrasil’s (Tree of Life) domains!

The Production Team, from the Sounds Department, Visual and Special Effects from France’s BUF Compagnie and Digital Domain are all given credit and their due, a pat on the back for successfully providing the needed environment and ambiance for the worlds to co-exist and to collide! Unlike some other films there who blows out the budget way up in the stars…until it falls, crashing inevitably into the Earth!!! A Humbling experience…

Now, something bigger is coming and we all know that. It started with the Incredible Hulk, the sequel of Iron Man where pieces of the puzzle takes into shape and a bigger, clearer picture will explicably soon be given into fruition and now, Thor is now part of it…

So far, there is a plan to form THE TEAM, then the HAMMER fell from the sky and now a COSMIC conundrum will be taking place and to our next stop (ehem!) A super SOLDIER is in waiting!!!

 

 

 

Iron Man 2 (2010)

It’s good to be back and someone got his!

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

He has his technology guaranteed, but he will need more than just an armored suit to face his next nemesis and he says “bring it on!”, I’ve got my back covered!

Sequels have a knack of being better for most films and Iron Man 2 is definitely an eye candy! Story is fast paced but still maintaining the right tone of the plot and the characters to meld in with their objectives for the film’s climactic end.

Enter War Machine, created by David Michelinie, John Byrne and Bob Layton. The character debuted in Marvel Comics Iron Man No. 118 on January 1979 while he has the same features as the Iron Man armour; let’s just say his awesome firepower is less finesse and a lot noisier than the former thanks to the collaborated work of Len Kaminski and Kevin Hopgood who designed his specifications. In the sequel, we are introduced to another piece of equipment as Tony explained his armour: “It’s not a weapon; it’s more of a highly advanced prosthesis.” In other words, the suit was designed to be something more in terms of the wearer or whoever is inside and controls it to be tantamount in being “enhanced”…superhumanly that is!

Returning Director Jon Favreau (Zathura) gives both performances in front and at the back of the camera, serving as body guard, personal driver and a punching bag to whoever he pleases! Happy Hogan in the film reunites with Tony and newly appointed CEO of Stark Industries Virginia “Pepper” Potts; she is given life by the always lovely and talented Gwyneth Paltrow (Great Expectations) again in my opinion the most suitable actress who can portray the character. Jon generously made this film in his own delight reaching further in the character’s mythos and assembling a cast courtesy of Sarah Finn and Randi Miller (Crash) both had been working on projects that give credence fulfil the actual people for the right job and profile which is very commendable coming in a long line of Marvel films. To add, I also liked the way he pans in and out of the scene and close-up shots to give it the authentic feel of fight scenes, technological aspects like the armour in flight, drones and weaponry used! He and Producer Kevin Feige didn’t waste time bring out the brandish display of production sets, visually stunning CGI and of course their camaraderie!

Writer Justin Theroux (American Psycho) contributed his screenplay and brainstormed with Don Heck, Larry Lieber and comic book legends Jack Kirby and Stan Lee to provide the “modern day” hero from the pages into the big screen, amalgamating different areas of the character’s background and mixing it with right amount of action, drama, comedy and sense of morality (right).

It had a little back story and coming from Mr. Anthony Edward Stark, played by the ever contrite     Robert Downey Jr. (Kiss Kiss Bang Bang) it is not about you, or them, it is about the Legacy we leave for the people and the future. As he presents his continued effort to bring “privatized peace” into the world as guided by his father, the pioneer of the so called “energy race” Mr. Howard Stark.

The film gave direction on how or why the antagonist Ivan Vanko, played by Mickey Rourke (The Wrestler) a rogue physicist, definitely a chip of the old block who lived and hated the Starks though ironically, it was not deserved for them to be acknowledged regarding his father’s contribution with the technology shared by both inventors. His performance was a bit stale and underrated maybe it was his delivery or how the character was written that had affected the dynamic between him and Tony. To add, I remember his whip contraption being attached in the dark; did anyone notice that it has the same spine base from Dr. Octopus’s neuro control for his tentacles in Spider-Man 2 movie?

The character is there; the audience knew him and appreciated more the wittiness and most of the time egotistic, self-righteous, condescending attitude that we all love to hate. The good thing about it is he still saves everyone and gives that sense of responsibility and burden to prove that his armor is for him only to use because simply he is the only one who understands its repercussions if it’s going to be being used in the wrong way. The film was ambitious, commendable, funny with all Tony’s banters with Pepper, Happy, Nick Fury, Natasha, James and even with Justin Hammer, the self-centred, egotistic and scrupulous CEO of HAMMER Industries, actor Sam Rockwell (Moon) gives justice for the role (again doing his dance routine) chatty and someone who loves the sound of his own voice (just like his main competitor). I understand they need to change the old man from the pages to a younger version just to keep a closer interaction with the man in the iron suit and their escapades for their business rivalry!

On a side note, too many inconsistencies weigh heavily against the Director from walking and standing on Stark EXPO platform, water changes in glasses, left and right hands for a subpoena, Ivan and Tony at the race track incident in which after whipping him in a striking distance he could still “skip to my loo” while approaching him, abruptly missing fighter plane in a tarmac, moving strawberries and the most recognized of them all which I did not forget the guffaw brought by the audience in the cinema when Tony called Rhodey “Don” his real name for crying out loud in the near end of the film, what was that all about? Were they in a hurry? It was embarrassing enough for them to have these blunders getting way over their heads thinking that they were on top of the world coming from the first film…come on! Jon, I believe took more time to be part of the acting rather than doing his job in the editing room.

Nevertheless, all of the characters did their part well even for the Artificial Intelligence J.A.R.V.I.S the voice rendered by the ever compliant Paul Bettany (A Knight’s Tale). I can easily applaud Natasha Romanoff played by Scarlett Johansson (The Island) for her given role; she nailed it and every single security enforcer in the building! Lt. Col. James Rhodes the new armor owner Don Cheadle (Rwanda Hotel), now inherits (took off) an Iron Man prototype armour to incorporate it to the military as their Variable Threat Response Battle Suit (VTRBS) also known as the War Machine.

His acting is always on par with the main protagonists. Samuel Jackson’s (Shaft) Nick Fury did more talk time and more distinctness for his role in the film and the coming films ahead. Everyone did bring their part and that’s why it worked, everyone should be able to have enough time to relay what they need to bring for the audience to understand what part they are in a given film or performance.

I was watching every Easter Egg that I can to give justice to the epic movie to follow and as the ending credits is done, this new information will give more expansion for these stories to be married into one single assemblage. Everything will fall into place in time and the “Hammer” did fell in the right spot…

Iron Man (2008)

A visually stunning amalgamation of near seamless technology, epiphany and bravado heroism!

Paramount Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

 “Tony Stark makes you feel he’s a cool exec with a heart of steel. As Iron Man, all jets ablaze, He’s fighting and smiting with repulsor rays! Amazing armor! That’s Iron Man! A blazing power! That’s Iron Man!” – Iron Man (1966)

A catchy song from way back! What else can you say about this guy? He’s exuberantly rich, a genius in the fields of engineering, robotics, hi-tech weaponry and a philanthropist. But not all heroes live without flaws Tony is a playboy, a drinker and alone but these things never stopped his will to exceed and help those who are in need…and that is why he is Iron man!

From the pages of the comic book comes another superhero built to battle the forces of evil (corporate, technological, supernatural the whole nine yards)! Stan Lee and Larry Lieber debuted their character in Tales of Suspense No. 39 on March 1963. After Blade and X-Men became progenitors for Marvel Comics films for nearly a decade. Now, we are in the presence of a superhero not born with mutant powers nor being bitten by paranormal creatures!

His name is Anthony Edward Stark a flamboyant, narcissistic, self-righteous and conceited guy who knows nothing less than to make money…that is still the case initially but not without remorse and the willingness to fight for what is right and protect humankind from any oppressors that will do her harm! Robert Downey Jr. (Zodiac) embodied those qualities, he is the perfect specimen to give Tony the human and the hero attributes that he was destined to be!

When Tony’s father Howard Stark passed away, his business was left to the watchful eyes of Obadiah Stane, he is played by Academy Award Winner Jeff Bridges (Blown Away) he heads Stark Industries into its glorified commitment of making the world safe while the young prodigy grows up. Being involved with military projects and arming them to the teeth against foreign threats, these circumstances has never been an understatement and it will always bring something more on the agenda of sustaining unsolicited contracts…that’s where the fun part comes in!

Best friend and confidant Lt. Col. James Rhodes played by the dismayed Terrence Howard (Crash) he works for the United States Air Force as their Weapons Division Liaison. There was so much in store for this guy, unfortunately his part was poorly conceived and written citing him as a lesser character who goes around wiping the dirt in Tony’s face and fixing up his mess! I believe that he was not deemed for that role, he talks softly, his delivery was sub-par and there was no assertiveness with his performance as a person from a military origin standpoint…in short he’s weak!

On the other hand, who could be more accomplished to portray the ever loyal and Mr. Stark’s love interest Virginia Pepper Potts rather than Academy Award Winner Gwyneth Paltrow (Sylvia)! Now here is something you would like to emulate and talk about, Gwyneth gave the absolute objective for Pepper to stand out as Tony’s Executive, she is smart, sweet and easy on the eyes. Pepper cares for Tony even if he acts oftentimes as a jerk (with a heart) but the main point is, she always makes sure that the company and her Boss is well taken cared off!

Jon Favreau (Daredevil) gave all his might both as the film’s Director and as a supporting cast, he is Tony’s chauffeur, driver, bodyguard and friend Happy Hogan! His innate wisdom to bring in the Golden Armoured Avenger into the big screen has made it easier to perceive since he prepared very well for the project to come into fruition! Seeing all things are in perspective collaborating with Stan, the co-creators over the years and Avi Arad gives this film another success in the box office for being next in line in the coveted superhero movies.

Jon made sure that Iron Man would be given life by instilling the right foundation from the beginning! From 40 years of back stories and artwork, he chose Adi Granov’s style of the armour suit. It was military oriented, slim and actually believable to be existing in the modern world. To add, the props team who made this happen was Stan Winston’s studio, delivering true to life practical effects that helped shaped the lead character’s world of high tech weaponry, gadgets, armaments from moulded casts and replicas!

From actual effects we go to the visual aspects of the film. Industrial Light and Magic (ILM) has time and again provided the best in terms of mixing the breakdowns of the real and the extraordinary!  Ben Snow, VLX Supervisor has given inputs on how their “magic” works with his team giving emphasis on real and CG model comparisons from its movements, background, lighting and the infinite possibilities of digital mimicry. To add, Kent Seki Visual Supervisor Pixel Liberation Front and Dav Rauch HUD Supervisor of The Orphanage collaborated and made Tony’s helmet out of this world and exuberantly cool! With all these widgets coursing through the actor’s face, we can see it and feel its interface from Tony’s eyes and perspective. From a spin, a dive, target systems and a shot going up in the stratosphere keeps the audiences fixated into what he and JARVIS voiced by up and coming star Paul Bettany (A Knight’s tale) supplies back and forth.

Overall, the creators, crew and cast of the film did a fantastic job bringing together all this talent to come up with solid performances both in front and behind the camera! The combined aspects from the military to the corporate espionage thriller bring in a grounded framework that enables a reality based and fantasy sci-fi driven story completely from the pages of a comic book a fantastic journey that we would like to experience over and over again! It was on a new level of superhero grandeur, a certified blockbuster of 2010 raking in $ 585 million worldwide!

Are we done? Silly me! There was this cameo with a guy named Nick Fury at the end of the film. He’s wearing a patch and informs Tony of some initiative well, something like that! Whatever that is something is brewing…

 

The Incredible Hulk (2008)

An astounding display of brute force and moving drama that provokes “thunderous” claps with the film giving more ground in its “smashing” take from the misunderstood monster!

Universal Pictures in association with Valhalla Motion Pictures and Marvel Studios present…

“Doc Bruce Banner, belted by gamma rays turned into the Hulk. Ain’t he unglamorous! Wreckin’ the town with the power of a bull ain’t no monster clown who is as lovable. As ever-lovin’ Hulk! HULK!! HULK!!” – Hulk (1966)

Created by Stan “The Man” Lee and Jack Kirby, The Hulk debuted in May 1962 as one of Marvel Comics perennial superhero! A towering green behemoth with a strength and stamina that can be boundless once angered…and no one would want him to be angry!!!

A retroactive continuation (retcon) with a new cast and Director!

This film gave more emphasis on Dr. Bruce Banner played by Edward Norton (The Fight Club) a scientist testing gamma rays in a laboratory with a fellow scientist which turned into a freak accident resulting on the grave injuries on those who participated. On the run from the military, specifically with Gen. Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross who was portrayed by William Hurt (A History of Violence), he took over the role from Sam Elliott from the first film. He happens to be a witness and supporter of the Gamma Radiation Project that Bruce and his daughter Betty was working on which made it more complicated on their specific agenda, from a military standpoint and of a scientist. His role was a bit more stale coming from the latter’s performance seeing he had only a violent disposition in capturing the “monster” for further experimentation and imprisonment!

Now in the case of Edward, he replaced Eric Bana from the last movie which I believe he was able to give a more in-depth take on the character, making him more susceptible to his transformation seeing that he’s a fugitive dealing with repressed anger, constant bullying, seeing the love of his life with another man and with no cure yet for his dilemma…what do we get? A living engine of destruction! He even generously inputted on the character and the script which the studio and the Writers Guild of America for the lack of a better term…did not credit! (you’re making him angry, you would not like him when he’s angry!)

In Guatemala, where most of the filming was made in spite of the heavy downpours! Bruce works temporarily in a soda factory while finding a cure for his condition. Fending for himself and with the help of Tim Blake Nelson (Minority Report) he plays Mr. Blue also known as Samuel Sterns, a Cellular Biologist who perceives to be more curious than cautious! He must stay off track and lie low from any contact and from some meddlesome “gringos”! Tim is a great actor and with a lot more to offer since he is also a Director, playwright and a singer, he was able to inject the specific take on his performance which is both geeky and eccentric!

The good part was that Bruce wants to give purpose of what he is and what he is destined to be, he must get rid of the monster inside him but there are always consequences in the process. Enter pesky nemesis Emil Blonsky a veteran soldier from Russia who is determined to bring down the Hulk and hungers to also acquire his superhuman strength, he was brought to the big screen by a reputable actor Tim Roth (Reservoir Dogs). Upon understanding how this operation all started, he had discussed his eagerness to take down the monster with Gen. Ross and was given a dosage of The Serum which started the Super Soldier Program back in World War II.

After brief encounters with the Jaded Giant, Emil was seriously injured and was left crippled…but there is more to him than meets the eye! As Bruce is off again in hiding with Dr. Elizabeth “Betty” Ross on his side, Liv Tyler (Armageddon) is the actress who replaced Jennifer Connelly from the previous film, she was his lover and co-worker when the laboratory accident happened who is now having a relationship with Dr. Leonard Samson played by Ty Burrell (Evolution). They were able to find Mr. Blue who helped Bruce to contain the Hulk with the blood sample given to him earlier in the film. Not aware that they are being tracked, Emil stormed the lab and captured Bruce, along with Betty. This part was a turning point for the two main characters as they prepare for the ultimate slugfest.

Emil’s persistence and unstable personality forced Sterns to give him Bruce’s blood and the supervillain was born… enter the Abomination! Pushing Sterns aside, another thorn, another headache will soon arise! So all hell breaks loose, we do have Abomination on one side and dropping off from the sky is the Hulk on the other end. Battling in the city landscape, muscle per muscle both behemoths wrecked the city in a climactic conclusion… Hulk Smash!!!

The Hulk was able to beat the Abomination and left the rooftop of the building with Betty’s broken heart. It will soon be found if Bruce can contain the monster or will it be forever his curse! A perfect conclusion for the film which gives the studios to have more interesting inputs in its sequels!

The action was pure adrenaline coordinated by Cyril Raffaelli (The Transporter) a French Traceur, Martial Artist and Stunt Man providing one of the best fight scenes ever done in comic book film history! Image Engine worked on the screenshots and specific CGI to be incorporated while Rhythm and Hues digital visual effects key frame animation preferably chosen by the Director to actually materialize and see the flow of these elements to come to life in the story. Overseen by Visual Effects Supervisor Kurt Williams (Fantastic Four) working with a small group of specialists, they were able to give the character the desired look of a “linebacker” as opposed to Ang Lee’s “body builder” behemoth from the previous film!

The film was definitely incredible; Director Louis Letterier (The Transporter) did bring back the franchise and the fans as well. He also brought in Zack Penn (X-Men 2) coming from another Marvel project to oversee the Writing of the story, they were able to make remarkable insights dealing with multi-angle scenarios to capture the story’s premise! Edward and the cast were so genuine to give this film a new start and they were accepted with open arms! Only hoped that he was able to continue his duties for the coming films, since Marvel had to let him go!!!

We can foresee what’s next for the “green goliath” when we are directed into a bar as Tony Stark makes a cameo appearance from the ever “sophisticated” Robert Downey Jr. (Tropic Thunder) who discretely informs the General about “forming a team”!

Disney and Marvel: A Synergy of Epic Proportions

MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

Company Profile

Marvel Entertainment, Inc. began in May 1933 from a company that only had one stint to release their publication. So they merged with Toy Biz Inc. to expand their market and to use leverage to increase sales and profit.

Using its enormous library of 5000 characters, they set sailed in the different industries through publishing and licensing. They even expanded more market coverage in terms of film production, dvd, on-line series and in gaming platforms. Marvel was able to provide consumer products so massive with top of the line characters that are well known worldwide, the business includes the following markets:

They have 3 Segments in distributing their products and these were:

 Licensing

• Theme Parks
• Toys and Merchandise
• Gaming

Film Production

• Animated Television
• Direct to DVD Live Action and Animation, DVD/Blu-Ray and On-Line Series

Publishing

• Comic Books and Graphic Novels
• Interactive

Explore the background to change affecting the current organization

Change is defined as any alteration that should give the structure of an organization to be stronger and consistent. Implementing change should also be clear, guided properly, consulted and analyzed in order for it to be effective and adaptable to all affected like people, technology, economy, industry and in competition.

We must see it as something that will be continually force development and improvement in the organzsation and how it affects our daily lives. Failure to do so, will lead to further sinking of the business leading to loss in money, manpower, machinery and materials.

The recent change for Marvel was for them to merge with another entertainment business giant Disney. To meet the challenges of both internal and external sources of change, here are some of the factors that affected the organization:

Internal

Corporate strategy

In Marvel, the company has made a lasting impact on doing projects being implemented in the 3 segments mentioned earlier.

As part of a big organization, an entrepreneurial mind set has been manifested in the company’s workforce including providing bigger and better projects to capture a wider scope of audience and at the same time accepting failure and criticism especially through Films and in the Publishing sectors.

Since Kevin Feige took over Marvel Studios as President which focuses on Film Production, he and Marvel had jump started the superhero trend for the new generation of viewers! With his initiative to produce such films as X-Men Trilogy, Spider-Man trilogy, Fantastic Four films and the recently outstanding sales from movies like Iron Man and the Incredible Hulk, this undertaking even garnered corporate strategy upgrading in covering more grounds in marketing these characters. Furthermore, its films for the next few years will be leaps and bounds since they have acquired a certified box office studio house from Pixar Disney, it will be a tremendous opportunity for Marvel since it has slumped on the animated projects on both tv series and straight to dvd films. Pixar’s talent and manpower can alleviate this segment further. Also, Marvel still gains access to big studios like Paramount, Twentieth Century Fox and Universal with upcoming anticipated films like Spider-Man 4, Iron Man 2, The Avengers, Captain America and Thor in the next few years.

Its effect on Licensing and Publishing segments has manifested since there is more market recall, consumers are more inclined to buy these stories through publications and making family time more fun on purchasing merchandises and going to theme parks.

Marvel has given emphasis more on generating ideas and lives and dies by it. They  just need to make sure that a specific undertaking creates enough momentum on the market specifically to the male demographic since mature, violent, and fantasy oriented storylines are being depicted and focused on.

The Workforce & Employee Attitudes

Employees in the company have worked in teams and producing each project, has their own specific agendas and targets to meet. In every segment there is something that needs to be contributed in order to make change work.

The  most recent updates on this category is how former writers and artists are giving a huge impact on acquiring their works on Marvel mainstream of characters. To specify the people that made a huge impact, here are a rundown of names for both Marvel and Disney and how it affected the said organizations.

Marvel

Jack Kirby – was one of the premiere artists that made a huge contribution in Marvel’s roster of characters in the 1930’s. He was one who made Captain America, Thor and The Avengers, The Fantastic Four and the Silver Surfer. His genius has brought the much profit for Marvel and sadly it was a one sided situation in terms of benefits which left him underpaid in spite years of intellectual property constraints. Today, his heirs are stopping any project that has something to do with Kirby’s initial works. This only says how Marvel treats one of its pioneers in building a foundation for Marvel to grow bigger as an organization. This signifies how people can resist to change, and even they have contributed much on the organization they work with, they have been treated unfairly through a bureaucratic type of system.

Jim Lee – in the 1990’s considered as the artist of the decade, he catapulted Marvel’s X-Men comic books to new heights, he revamped the teams costumes, co-created a few more characters such as Gambit and Omega Red and even started his own series simply called X-Men. He did sold a whopping $8 M copies, still considered the best selling comic book of all time (Comicbookdb.com, 2009). But in spite the success, accolades and the good pay, Jim left Marvel to put up his own company in 1992 called Wildstorm Productions to start a new leash in life. His own genius has left him constantly in competition with co-artists and writers which favoured him more since he has accomplishments in every aspect of the business from being a penciller, writer, editor and even a Director so to keep it from declining sales, he founded a buyer from DC Comics and merged his works with the publishing giant starting January of 1999.

Disney

Steve Jobs – how can anyone not be familiar with the name? The late CEO in one of the most sought after marketing products of the century, Apple. Formerly a member of the Board of Directors of Disney’s Pixar Studios. Steve catapulted the Disney franchise into new heights and mostly well deserved success in Pixar, spanning so many films that made it into the box office. His direction and vision for the company has made one of the world’s most successful stories, enabling a buy out from Disney, it purchased Pixar for $7.4 bn and was the only biggest single shareholder of the company’s stocks by 7%.

John Lasseter – the story teller genius and makes everyone he works with excel in their own field, that is John. Considered one of the best in the business of computer animation, John has made his ideas turn into money and instant success such as Toy Story, Monster;s Inc, Finding Nemo, Cars, WALL-e and the most recent film Up. John is the Chief Creative Director for Pixar and Disney Animation Studios and for Walt Disney’s Imagineering, he is the current Principal Creative Director. These people have transcended the need for change and sometimes counter changes in the group they work with because there is a reason to do so, not just to prove a point but to help understand the capabilities and capacities they have as employees and officers of the their respective companies.

It may be reasons for money, threats to status, feasibility for the proposed change, but one thing stays the same, it’s how people can make it work whether through perseverance or resistance.

External

Market Share and Competition

The only thing that remained constant in this category is the demographics of the fans for both the Marvel and Disney. Giving emphasis on market recall Marvel has made a huge impact on young male adults and Disney’s almost 360 degrees circle covering families, young females ranging from 1-30 years of age.

Both teams have captured most of the consumers’ interests since way back then, their ability to make stories from characters have left a huge impact on the market’s imagination and surrealism.

Also, we need to consider Marvel’s biggest rival DC Entertainment which is under the wing of Warner Bros. Inc. they have recently for this new division for the company  to expand  projects as well more control on their characters as well. With the same concept of Marvel, DC Entertainment mission is to “strategically integrate the DC Comics business, brand and characters deeply into Warner Bros. Entertainment and all its content and distribution business.” (Outlaw, K, 2009)

Meaning, all types and forms of distribution licenses whether film, media, tv franchises and other interactive platforms that can be covered will be instilled to ensure market dominance. Diane Nelson, the former head of Warner Premiere will be the new President of DC Entertainment. Bringing to the post her two decades of experience in strategic marketing, creative branding and content developing and production has helped the company to pull in millions of dollars for handling Harry Potter franchises and projects.

Government laws and regulations

The government as an entity gives so much influence on how companies and businesses cope with everyday operations. With this in mind, here is a sample on how the government gives what is due to the public and consumers.

In order for Marvel and Disney to complete the merging, they need to follow by-laws implemented in the stated contract that makes Disney as the sole company and making Marvel as its subsidiary. Also, for them to understand that the agreement of payment of both in cash and stock will be agreed as $30 per share in cash and an additional 0.745 share in stock from Disney for each Marvel share they own. At the closing date on August 28, 2009, it closed out as $50 per share or $4bn in total.

This will seal and congregate the deal between the two firms and gradually make decisions onwards with regards to future projects allowing both parties to understand profitability expectations, budgeting, manpower and contracts to be signed for the joint licenses for third parties.

Economic conditions

It is given notion that change can make or break even a stable company and nothing is exempted to the rule not even Marvel, since it filed it bankruptcy in 1998.

Ike Perlmutter was able to turn the tide in merging with Disney to house their 5000 library of characters from Spider-man, Incredible Hulk, Captain America, Avengers and the X-Men to name a few.

Major highlights that affected Marvel was their Publishing house Marvel Comics, it has been finding ways to recover from on and off sales in the market. Here are some factors affecting the organization for quite some time now:

• Competition and Market share
• Redundant Storylines
• Talent Shortage

Basically recession is everywhere and it deeply impacts on how businesses manages to recover from losses like assets, profit, employees, clients, customers the lists goes on. That’s why they find ways to make the conglomerate work and survive the crisis and one significant alternative is through merging.

Marvel was bought by Disney on August 31, 2009, by a staggering $4bn (£2.5bn) enabling big house names such as Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Snow White to profitable characters such as Spider-Man, Incredible Hulk and the X-Men to name a few.

“Disney should be able to leverage its global reach, execution, and distribution capabilities to grow Marvel’s brands and business opportunities.” (DiClemente, A, 2009)

With that in mind, Disney has plans to put these characters in a joint venture on projects on television, theme parks and movies.

The two companies has the same business strategies, since the joint venture has covered all bases from both the male and female demographics which they can easily sell around the world in any type of media platform, third-party licensing agreements and other business opportunities.

Here, we will able to discuss and provide certain aspects of how Marvel have transcended into different industries that could help alleviate the third party licensees.

One example is through Hallmark, characters of Marvel can help synergize connection with people across countries and continents, with a vast global resources and locations, Hallmark’s joint venture with Marvel makes more business lucrative for both organizations, social expression products range from electronic, mobile messaging and Crayola (a subsidiary of Hallmark) arts and crafts products.

“Millions of consumers are passionate about Marvel movie and animated series characters,” said Karen Mitchell-Layton, Hallmark Vice President of Licensing.

“It’s important to Hallmark to provide meaningful products to help people celebrate and emotionally connect with each other.” (Marvel, 2009)

As defined, Bureaucracy is a type of management or administration that has a hierarchical type of implementation through offices and also having fixed procedures.

In terms of Marvel and Disney both are considered tall or boundlessness organizations that can influence the market and put up strategies that start from its Executive Officers down to the staff.

Here are the numbers:

• Disney – 150000 employees across the varying business over 3 continents with over $37.8B turnover from last year’s profit.
• Marvel – employs only 300 staff with its domestic and overseas offices with $676M turnover last year.

Basically, the peak levels of both companies is that they have generated well known characters and has standed the test of time. Who does not know Spider-Man or Mickey Mouse? With these type of cultural background, it has a staying power and market recall that is very commendable for all stakeholders.

On the other side, they are very well known that competition is very rampant and wants to take over the best in the business. Other problems include employee retention and demand for their sales are set to have high expectations.

Through Marvel and Disney’s head executives, Bob Iger and Ike Perlmutter knew that merging these two giants would create better opportunities for business growth and expansion of both entertainment based companies.

Bob Iger as Chief Executive of Disney sees these merging as covering more ground on the young male demographic which they are trying to get back since they are more inclined in the female demographic which is the target specific of these themed characters.

“There are so many opportunities to mine both characters that are known and characters that are not widely known,” (Iger, B, 2007). On the other hand, Ike Perlmutter Marvel’s Chief Executive has more concerns on saving the company from further bankruptcy since it started in 1998. He has given Marvel to become more flexible in terms of channeling various markets.

Develop systems for understanding and involving others in the process of change

Bureaucracy is the main argument her for both the organizations, while focusing on their respective developments towards change. Both parties should understand how both management and employees can overcome the old policies and procedures which keeps on pulling them back in terms of progress.

Iger is said to have fast-tracked plans to cut Disney’s corporate bureaucracy make it more friendly to creative people. This has to be a statement that needs backing up from the both ends. Now the case scenario would be handling Marvel the best computer generating geniuses from Pixar to enable market strength and dominance.

The systems and stakeholders that can be implemented in Marvel and Disney are more direct to employees and the corporate executives.

Thus by far, both have been making drastic changes that enable them to have more control over the other in terms of team development and functional and divisional system. Since a bigger organization is taking over, a lot of adjustments are being made in order to ensure corporate governance are manifested and implemented within the structures.

In Team Development, Wherein a few items were discussed earlier on how this will play out in the long run for both teams. Factors in included are high rates of redundancy, maintenance of manpower and retaining them has been a struggle since they are very well known and competition for a post within the organization is really stiff.

For Functional and a Divisional System to work, the top management should look at performance and accomplishments are being implemented carefully to ensure business competitiveness and continuance.

While the other item mentioned above focuses more on the diversity of the systems used wherein there is much focus on what specific divisions can help to uplift the whole organization. Control over one division exerts too much pressure and conflict inside the system and thus making it difficult to maintain.

The objectives of the companies involved is more on managing with a sound structure and well adept Executives that can really guide people to the right direction in order to achieve a common goal.

Unfreeze-Transition-Refreeze Model

This model signifies highly on how Marvel and Disney by joining together will be able to apply all things needed for the new company to grow and expand the business, maintain and exceed in sales, deliver the best customer service and commit to the public’s interest and the market’s continuous patronage.

The first step is Unfreeze, this means that giving people in the organization to think about their future and relatively, make more progress by taking the next step on their careers and mindset to where the company needs to go and to what direction.

The next step in Transition, in this phase, the momentum of an individual or the organization takes momentum and these elements should accept change and the progress in undertakes in order to know better how to cope up with upcoming problems the organization might face in the future.

Significant to Marvel and Disney’s merging is the question who will stay, who will be transferred to another department? Who will be the next Executive or Manager to take over the group? What are their plans? And How do we cope up with the new set up for the organization?

Lastly, Refreeze gives emphasis on when we get there we stay put and expand our roots for growth. In this case, Marvel and Disney has so many projects coming from all angles from film, tv series, merchandising. Expansion of the business in general will need people to do the brainstorming and focus group discussions on how will opportunities and threats will have to make these two companies work on it. It may take a while for it to develop and for progress to come into fruition.

But still, concentrating on the business will be the next thing to be a mind set for both employees and its upper management to pull through.

Business Process Re-Engineering

With this new concepts and target specific to computerization and new media platforms and technologies, Marvel and Disney may have been one of the best conglomeration of two media based giants.

In this model, it is stated by Davenport, to actualize BPR the following approach must be undertaken:

• Develop the business mission and process objectives
• Identify the business process to be re-designed
• Understand and measure the existing processes
• Identify IT levers
• Design and build a prototype of the new process

With both companies having large manpower, outsourced offices in and businesses in a global scale, it is imperative to use this model in order for them to understand what situation they are in considering that there is competition, conflicts in the organization, excessive use of non-structured communication and gradual improvements in each division is important for them to be recognized.

So many questions are undermining an employee and also the Top management’s minds right now. But important thing is the step has been taken and though making that journey will be a difficult one, but the focus is t will be for the best and taking it positively and with pro-activeness will get the organization through the obstacles.

Marvel and Disney merged because of these reasons:

Marvel

• To be able to revive market dominance in the publication sector. (main competitor is DC Entertainment, a subsidiary of Warner Bros).
• To be able to produce better animation based films and series both direct to dvd and in television. To add, accessing to its own studios like ABC, Walt Disney Pictures, Buena Vista International and the like.
• Lastly is Pixar, Disney’s premiere animation studio will get them through with the current slump since it has produced box office films like Cars, Toy Story, Wall-e and the most recent Up.
• To get more profit from third party licensing, since Disney is more globally inclined in terms of business opportunities, Marvel will get a chance for more shelf space for merchandise across thousands of retails stores from Disney.

Disney

• To be able to capture more from the male demographic since Marvel’s library of characters are inclined to gritty violence, fantasy and are action based.
• To generate more revenue on their slumping Theme Park rides, we can see in the near future Spider-man, Iron Man, X-Men and other characters from Marvel in Disneyland parks and other theme parks in the US, Canada, Europe and Asia.

To summarize, the given research from both organizations will need to adapt in a very competitive world and taking advantage of new resources, capabilities, capacities, manpower and pool of talent. Now at their disposal, these should give them enough contingencies to face the new challenges ahead and we believe that it’s all coming into fruition seeing the catapulted success of individual superhero films since 2008  from Iron Man 1 and 2, Incredible Hulk, Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger which will culminate into the ultimate synergy of all…The Avengers!