Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Come, comic book fanatics, the viewing public, studio execs! Come, kneel before Zack!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Ratpac Entertainment, Cruel and Unusual Films, Atlas Entertainment and DC Entertainment present…

DC Comics and Warner Bros. have been figuring things out of the “mother box” and give their main competitors Marvel along with Disney to bring together their own “superteam” and by branding their own “justice”! It has been too long and the wait is finally over!

So, as the title implies its two fold machinations that allow these comic book icons initially clash through fixated indignancy and about how the beginning of an age for the DC Extended Universe has finally come into fruition where a collective group of super heroes composed of a sober alien, a warrior demigoddess, a half-breed King, a time travelling speedster, a hybrid man-machine and a gothic urban legend are brought to life in the big screen!

PROLOGUE

The same formulaic threshold has been manifested where bits and pieces of comic book lore (and screenplay) are mashed up cohesively to pave way to the “yellow brick road” upon which goes down to who has the bigger ego rather than giving way to moral dictum! For after thousands have perished and damage has been done, it has been nothing short of compared to an ICBM hitting main cities like cannon fodder!

DISCOMBOBULATED DIRECTOR!

Zack Snyder (300) cannot tell a story (original or adapted)! He has given a statement in Comic Con that the film will have a very different approach and they have been think tanking about the plot from Frank Miller’s “The Dark Knight Returns” on how it’s going to work and we have seen how he placed these super heroes in their respective pedestals! Also giving emphasis on certain elements being recognized of what is supposed to be significant in order to put a pin on a plot or just by using these moments in time and pages as well (“Death in the Family” and “Death of Superman”) to actually bring some sense of justification to make the jump from one film to the amalgamated franchise which is the DC Extended Universe!

While adding he also mentioned that he thought “long and hard about who needs to belong in this line-up”.  Frankly, he does not need to “carry too much his own chair” implying simply that these whole project comes with the actual propaganda of DC Comics and with its Executives blessing, that is inclusive of their recent restructuring of the DC Universe, comic books being sold, television programs and  animation and so on!

He has been backpedaling of sorts with trying to entice more patronage by roughly editing and writing  the film together with Chris Terrio (What Dreams May Come) plus David Goyer (Blade) while taking away parts that can at least secure better sales (in his own mind) from the post-theatrical release. Obviously, this is just a coy plan that could help him maneuver DC Comic’s fan base to give their very own inputs of how this smorgasbord of superheroes can survive the comic book war!

Basically, it’s not a hard sell to entice the movie going public, fans and enthusiasts to come and explore the world of the so called “World’s Finest” and this genre but there should always be a caveat on how they are offered for consumption, one thing is how can it be made to be more interesting? How does it fit to societal norms of an era where consumerism is like a domino effect by letting competitors haggle miserably to win the hearts and minds of the people?

Speaking of which I was looking ahead most of the time of who can join the bandwagon to be part of these films and Zack did collaborated with former stars except he placed these thespians with forgettable characters that either died or will have no major impact on the series. Michael Cassidy (Argo) plays Jimmy Olsen as a CIA Spook (friends no more with the Big Blue) while Patrick Wilson (The A-Team) is just the voice of President of the United States. Along with fellow Watchmen Jeffrey Dean Morgan (The Losers) is father shot dead from an alley Thomas Wayne, Carla Gugino (Sucker Punch) as the A.I. Kelor and with “Sucker Punch” alumni Jena Malone (Hunger Games: Mocking Jay Part 1) who portrays a menial scientist in Star Labs, she was cut from the film and will be included in the Blu-Ray R-Rated and Ultimate Editions instead! (what a waste of talent).

THE POKER FACED SAVIOR

What is purpose? Henry Cavill (The Man from U.N.C.L.E.) is Kal-El far flung from the destroyed planet Krypton. Now publicly known as Clark Kent a headstrong journalist is having a life, a flat and a girlfriend (but don’t look her way or you’ll be in trouble)! Amy Adams (American Hustle) is intrepid reporter Lois Lane who happens to be at the wrong place while he’s always at the right time (same old tricks from MOS). They work for head honcho Editor-in-Chief Perry White of the Daily Planet Laurence Fishburne (Standoff) who calls the shots but nobody listens to him!

Clark is meant to survive and serve as a beacon of hope (to whoever lives anyway) which makes it much more difficult to allow his acceptance on our planet. Instances like instead of someone who is willing to look for survivors, casualties or just even smile as a gesture that it’s going to be alright for those he’d saved anyway was not emphasized except for that young woman, the rocket and of course Lois!

Henry’s version of Superman (by contract) has left him literally floating on one corner where in fact this film should really be titled “Man of Steel 2: The Buzzer Beater”. He was like playing all around the court miserably for three quarters then finally took his best shot in the last second to win the game! Seriously, the way his character was given life was actually the other way around and his acting did not help both since he just frowns and flies away without saying much! Just like what he did while having fisticuffs with the blood hungry bat stating that he should have told in the first place that his mother Martha “Kent” starred by Diane Lane (Inside Out) was fish bait! (shaking my head)

“DARING” TO BE A HERO AGAIN

Ben Affleck (Gone Girl) is still suave billionaire Bruce Wayne however a disgruntled, semi-retired vigilante of Gotham City. What do you expect from the man who lost almost everything from his parents, his manor, friends caught in burning building and a partner in crime fighting. A long list you might say but eventually it’s just the tip of the iceberg considering his resentment for criminals and to a certain alien (and others) who decimated  the city!

Ben was hesitant at first to take the role but was later intrigued on how his character is played out differently from other precedents specifically with Nolan’s take from “The Dark Knight Trilogy”. Bruce is now in his forties, has been around for twenty years, uses guns, a hand held bat branding (Zorro goes dibs) and yes, he does run you over with his raging (cool) car or probably through his fist until you no longer breathe!

Basically Batman does not take anyone’s lives in his earlier years but the hero has been damaged for so long and eventually snapped when losing so many as it took a toll on him. But we’ll never know if this will be his trademark in the films moving forward or can he still have a change of heart when he finally unites the “Samurai Seven”!

This is the Batman that really looks the part considering Christian Bale’s absolute performance! But Ben used the said approach to be menacing, cold, intellectually resourceful and can surely fight with the costume with both hands and feet!

Same goes with Jeremy Irons (Kingdom of Heaven) as the revamped butler Alfred Pennyworth who is now a former government operative, techno savvy and a body guard to the Wayne Family! Probably one of the rare good points that was used here, still serving his Master with utmost loyalty but he does actually provide more than being a surrogate father, he personally trained Bruce and instilled mental toughness while teaching him to never let go of his humanity even when the world has succumbed to evil!

I AM WOMAN, HEAR ME ROAR!

With Gal Gadot (Triple 9) getting the role of Wonder Woman has raised a lot of brows seeing that she can’t act or was too skinny. All were proven wrong since she was introduced to the world as Diana Prince! Daughter of Zeus and Hippolyta living secluded for thousands of years in a remote island named Themyscira! I really applauded on how she brought her ferocity it really brought down the house and whole lot more literally.

She was there for eye candy but did so well in the given few minutes with not much to say! Considering her charisma, the interactions with Bruce and how she helped saved the day in spite of questioning man’s disconcerting and eccentric ways that leave them on separate poles!

DEVILS DON’T COME FROM THE SKIES …THEY ARE HERE WITH US!

There is reason to believe that there was more retaliation to Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network) role as Lex Luthor to portray the arch-nemesis of “The Son of Krypton”. Nevertheless, he got the job to unleash hell for our heroes. Jesse was the least expected to have this role since people were clamoring for Bryan Cranston or someone else but you can still have to give him credit for what he has done to make the villain work. He was manipulative, has sociopathic tendencies, morally corrupt surging through his veins and annoying while playing god to destroy a false one!

Within his grasps is United States Junior Senator June Finch played by Holly Hunter (The Big White). She serves as a conduit for his malevolent plan to eradicate the alien while truth of the matter is he also wants the power that is held in the scout ship for personal means! Not only that he also jumpstarted the metahuman program and guess what he already have names and logos for our heroes! (genius isn’t he?)

 THE GOOD, THE BAD  AND THE UGLY!

From a world of pundits, this is nothing new to DC stories since they were extrapolated in their animated featured films from the beginning by giving society’s experts to “condone or condemn” these beings.

While in another end of the spectrum, praise to the actors who have been wooed to give their best with the different department assignments and the technical people as well providing the motion capture, CGI, designing and making the film truly possible! I just wish that the Director would have the ability to at least make a film with intellectual storytelling. The experience was all the same with “Man of Steel” where we were left hanging in one scene then when it is about to climax somebody edited it and turn the camera on another set. Again, it’s a dragging montage where the first half of the film was very convoluted until all three heroes needs to rise up from a greater threat!

Fans appreciated some aspects like a “big bad” is just on the horizon, the parademons he will further unleash to humanity, cameos from Ezra Miller (The Perks of Being a Wallflower) as Barry Allen also known as the Flash, Jason Momoa (Conan The Barbarian) is King of Atlantis Arthur Curry, The Aquaman and Ray Fisher (Muhammad Ali) Victor Stone is the name, Cyborg is what I’ve become after I was in pain!

Also, expanding on how they used those scenes for Superman’s death was not even contrite in the first place! The essence of him to die this way with Doomsday courtesy of Robin Atkin Downes (Prometheus) as the culprit has not been riped at the right time neither that is for people to at least forgive him for what he has done in his first outtake then making him a scapegoat just to place something in the end worth watching rather than making it significant to those who have perished, at least a sort of retribution for what he has done with Metropolis and its residents!

So in conclusion, there are no post credit scenes since the whole film was an easter egg waiting to explode! As two comrades at arms plan for their intended targets while somebody “rested in peace” showing that this is not the end but the beginning of “hopefully” greater things to come! Forget about Darkseid coming…Zack Snyder was here first!

Man of Steel (2013)

A blitzkrieg tale of an adopted alien with utmost pure intentions until he helped decimated the populace implying it’s all for the glory of your salvation!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures, Syncopy Films, Cruel and Unusual Films and DC Entertainment present…

After tireless years of researching, developing and brainstorming to energize the so-called epic that is Superman it has “sort of” come into fruition with the triumvirate efforts of Director Zack Snyder (Watchmen), produced and “questionably” mentored by Christopher Nolan (The Dark Knight Rises) and “mediocrely” written by David Goyer (Dark City). They took this film as a reboot including all Superman stories’ and previous incarnations since the dawn of superhero films in the 1970’s even further was in the comic books more significantly synchronizing it with DC’s “New 52” where the “Man of Steel” has been given a different look, a pragmatic costume and a more youthful persona as a foothold and countermeasure in their never ending battle with his creators’ family in the court of law!

Modern filmmaking does give its time to actually see what can be the outcome when it’s used in its full capacity and Zack revved it as far as he can until it explodes destroying the whole fictional staging grounds! As the SFX and VFX were definitely coherent and superior while it was to amalgamate its intensity with “modified” storytelling combining with its melancholic aura that is still being captured from very talented people encompassing the mythic universe of Kal-El! With companies like Weta Digital (Prometheus), The Moving Company (Life of Pi) and Double Negative (Children of Men) at the forefront, their work never fails to impress especially with fictionalized characters as phenomenal as this! With an “almost assured” proper guidance by DC Comics, the actual powers inhibited by Big Blue was given emphasis straight to the dot, from feats of strength, super speed, invulnerability, heat vision and the most obvious the gift of flight!

Composer Hans Zimmer (Batman Begins) had said that is was a “daunting task” to follow through with the musical score applied by John Williams since the 1978 film which was absolutely moving and majestic! But his work was made less elaborate of his “repetitive” flow of tunes even more copying the type of aura from the score in the film “Gladiator”. Probably we have been harboring on his work for the last couple of years which makes it tip over the line already.

IF THE “S” FITS WEAR IT!

From all these considered heroes, comes Superman! The mere mention of his name can be recognized from all over the world and that’s how universal he can be! As Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster’s answer to their prayers, the alien infant from the planet Krypton was sent here for a reason and a purpose. With so many changes all these years since his debut in Action Comics No. 1 on April 18, 1938, the orphaned boy thrived and at best surrogated by a farmer and his wife known as Jonathan and Martha Kent.

In his highly anticipated and long overdued starring role, Henry Cavill (Immortals) after being set aside by Bryan Singer from his 2006 film “Superman Returns”, the actor comes back with a vengeance; faster, stronger and “smarter?” to legitimately  redeem DC Comics and take the power back in the superhero blockbuster race! Running from his true nature, Joseph Clark Kent who was raised by simple townsfolk in Smallville has been trying to search himself all his life and find a way to fulfill his destiny since he was brought on Earth to be its savior!

He has this innate capacity to have a passive nature while not being hesitant to be hungry for humanity which is often underrated by his standards. The fascinating part was how they were able to compensate the true meaning of manifesting his inner strength growing up and knowing despite of being an alien, being an orphan and being alone in the universe even so with his ability to forcibly move mountains literally was not even conceived to be his way to compliment the love he had with his adopted parents and for this planet! To make things simpler, he is stronger than grief, pain, greed or even with lust for power and that what makes him a hero in everyone’s eyes!

This is what DC Comics have sired for humanity and being a primordial force that lived through the expectations of so many generations of children and fans, he had always instilled the meaning of hope and inspired others to follow as he leads by example. But not until he used his vented up anger all those years just to get the adrenaline running.

Seeing from the Donner films a flag was clothed as his memento, a remembrance of his origins and now an armor was handed down by his father seems poetic justice! The House of El secures its legacy not just from their Kryptonian race but also to forge a new kind of beginning that will take a ripple effect with their son.

“HOODS AND FATHERS” – FROM LEGENDS TO LEGACIES

While Russell Crowe (Gladiator) and Ayelet Zurer (Vantage Point) taking the initial spotlight from all this madness, the biological father Jor-El was trying to convince the council until they were interrupted. As he risk everything to save his kind, he informs his wife Lara Lor-Van to initiate the launching sequence. With a sub-plot of a highly advanced civilization especially in terms of space exploration and technology, he chose Earth as an intended trajectory to save their only son naturally born to forge his own destiny rather than be succumbed into their genetically engineered race of individuals.

Another set of talent walking down the line, Kevin Costner (The Guardian) and Diane Lane (A Walk in the Moon) portrays Kal-El’s surrogate parents as Jonathan and Martha Kent. Their involvement with Clark’s upbringing was the most fundamental aspect on how he came to be the person today. Their words and love inspire him to be better more so to be the best of what he can be and considering the sacrifices made in order for him to fully understand his intentions before diving head first and find the right time to introduce himself as this planet’s adopted alien…can you say I come in peace?

The main focus from a conversive standpoint was how the emotion is being captured and relayed to the audience it was very profound but in the essence of being human and the bond we form with other people especially with family and of course our parents. This is the main difference between Singer’s “Superman Returns” where the character was too sentimental centric through its screenplay which did not went very well with the critics and fans. While the conjecture on this premise was the feeling of being bounced around too much for too long literally affecting the already muddled “Nolanesque” non-linear treatment and it never gave any comfort whatsoever in all the smoke combined with the shaky camera tandem which makes the robots fighting in Michael Bay’s films look less spectacular (throwing up and all that nausea).

CODENAME:  “SCULLY” – MORE THAN YOUR TYPICAL REPORTER

To be honest, I was hesitant with Amy Adams (The Fighter) to portray someone like Lois Lane seeing that she has the looks only made for romantic comedies she soon found a way to prove that she was worth it! Her role was refined seeing that she is capable by herself to accomplish her work without being dumbed down. Although, still a camera hog, she was so conveniently at the right place and at the right time whenever her personal savior is also on screen just to compliment their chemistry and to at least say that even super powered beings needs some assistance along the way.

While the other guy whom she sees now and then as well just to justify her actions is Daily Planet’s own Editor-in-Chief Perry White. Laurence Fishburne (The Matrix) does his fair share in the movie with not just verbal quips or cheesy dialogues while having a think tank with his employees. They converse, they relay the message clearly that a situation out there is happening or is just happenstance that the world is not ready to accept and contemplate on.

THE WAR MONGERING PATRIOT OR THE DESPERATE DESPOT

Finally, we have another villain that could at least belong in the highly regarded adaptation from comic books to film. Michael Shannon (Take Shelter) I have seen how he can resort to his impatience and temper in the film “Premium Rush” where he was racing after “Robin”. Michael defined his portrayal with absolute resonating force, he can really make you feel his betrayal and his vision for a new Krypton, not evil as many would imply but he was only doing his best (or worst) to save his people from extinction the only concern is he wants us all annihilated. This slight reference to the Justice League animated movie “Starcrossed” where Thanagarians invaded Earth just to construct a massive space jump machine that would help them destroy their enemies but in our demise.

MONTAGE OF A SHARED UNIVERSE

Speculations suggest that the arch-rivalry of Superman and Lex Luthor has been given instances through subliminal messages just like what they did to Norman Osborn in “The Amazing Spider-Man”. It would be farfetched but still while the villain resort hiding in the shadows developing his so-called A.I. technology that will gain him the upper hand against the last son of krypton. It could be merely just robots or Amazo that was developed by Dr. Irving Ivo, Metallo can be another option or by far the best anticipated scenario would be the super computer, information assimilating Braniac!

Enough said, Lex was always the main villain in all the Superman movies and it just gives a little to moot over on how can he be a benefactor after the catastrophic and decimated landscape that happened in Smallville and Metropolis. He will help to rebuild with his infinite resources and use it to campaign against the unwanted alien, it is justifiable to say that the devil is in the details and you know his name…

There are still plenty of easter eggs laying around to get the pieces together which could be enough to elaborate future stories and can be treated as prequels or sequels. An open pod in the explorer ship which Lois and a handful of government personnel was investigating, a prequel comic was made to explain this further and suggest that it belonged to  Kara Zor-El the cousin of Superman and also known as Super Girl. Also related to the latter, a brief mention of a council member of Thanagar the homeworld of other Justice League members Hawkman and Hawkgirl was also iterated while saving the best for last…

One major player is also thrown in the pit as the two freaks of nature destroyed  tons of military hardware on both ends, they still lambasted another expensive property and one billionaire is not going to be happy. Bruce Wayne’s orbiting satellite was pulverized as it heads back to the planet’s atmosphere. (I’ll send you the check Clark!)

THE AFTERMATH OF SNYDER’S WRATH

Zack, to be honest I would literally praise your efforts to bring this iconic super hero a new perspective from looks, available technology, the media, the marketing which makes it sound so easy but I’ll still if I can refund our money because it was not substantial to the movie going public.

A few more things that can be asked here, how or even better, why did you make Krypton so beautifully aesthetic even though it was on a brink of war so highly advanced in terms of technology have spaceships spew out so much smoke? Space travel for these people has surpassed the rocket fuel science and has made warp travel the very means of getting to another galaxy the quickest way possible. I could understand and seen even that their beasts were fashioned to their vessels and ships which was commendable while Earth based machinery like blue tooth and a computer’s external device resembles some of Krypton’s way of communicating and to launch someone into orbit.

In another angle, there was no more crystals that formed the Fortress of Solitude which was acceptable, setting in place the gargantuan ship that can suit Kal-El’s new home away from home. But how come there was already a tailor made suit that obviously came from his Father making it unclear how did it actually fit him perfectly? Speaking of the suit and the shield, was it just me or did you also copied Tim Burton’s “Batman” opening sequence while the camera was traversing the curves and lines of the emblem it was also the same technique used to commence the film…

On the side of religion, it was clearly manifested on how Clark was conceived to be like Jesus Christ, sent here to save the world he embodied the same type of mind set that separated him from others being godly at the same time humanistic as possible. Seen directly from the church scenes and to how he disembarks from the orbiting ship to save Lois from plummeting back to Earth.

It definitely had its moments but was suddenly washed away with the ever ricocheting of story panels which was like bringing your laptop to use a Power Point but when you were using your laser pen it was all over the place at once and we can’t keep up with what your trying to sell! (have your heard of pre-visualization?)

To make it short, it was over the top, too much destruction and what hurts more, there was no relatable story that was instilled to make it worthwhile. Fans were clamoring for a more action oriented super hero film but it does not permit you to deride the importance of the character especially with this guy who is very well known to be without content, it is just being able to focus on the main plot then work on and narrow down on  your sub-topics plain and simple. It was convoluted with special effects which actually work but it really, more so literally gave us only headaches which is not what we’ve expected. We want to enjoy these types of films and make sure it’s worth are patronage. But hey, I’m still a fan and still hoping for a much better delivery on the next installments.

So lastly before parting, the Man of Steel gives his Mother a peace of mind that he has found a job that will enable him to help even further while he tries to hide his facade from everyone but not to the Investigative Reporter who gave him a smile or a smirk which she implies cautiously and welcomes him to the planet…please feel free to drop in any time!

Superman Returns (2006)

“The son becomes the father, the father becomes the son!”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures and Bad Hat Harry Productions present…

Joe Shuster and Jerry Siegel were Jews surviving the harsh life of World War II, imprinted in them a given hope that someone would be able to lift them out of their misery!  That is why they were inspired to create Superman, the Last Son of Krypton! Raised by his foster parents Jonathan and Martha Kent, he developed his gifts and powers to protect mankind from all oppression and injustice! He became the savior they were looking for, resembling our Lord, Jesus Christ! A timeless, honest and genuine character; he graced the pages of DC publications in Action Comics No. 1 on June 1938. Over the years, he has been known in the free world fighting for justice, truth and the American way!

It was summer of 2006 and after work; I watched this long awaited CBM with great friends and in another time with my siblings, a treat for the birthday boy the “Flash” and with our eldest “Superman”! I remembered the cinema packed with parents and overzealous kids it was surreal thinking that I just used to watch this on TV back in the day and imagining what it feels like to experience it in a bigger screen and in color! But since the start of comic books being made into films took its turn, it was indeed a lucrative opportunity in converting these well published stories to another level of continuity and medium. Finally, after two long decades of waiting…Superman Returns!

On the side note, since there was a recent major overhaul for DC comics, the newly revamped 52 titles covers origins, storylines and twists which I think would be better suited as an introduction for the upcoming rebooted movie in 2013.

A new path is being made (sort of), from the Director of “The Usual Suspects” and “X-Men” crossing over from the other side of Marvel’s pond together with cast members’ former “vampire” Parker and former “mutant” James was all part of the plan. Bryan Singer gave his best to signify the previous works of Richard Donner and with respect to Christopher Reeve and Dana Reeve (God bless their souls). The film technically is an integration of stories that focuses more on the relationship of Lois and Clark (don’t forget the munchkin) Tristan Lake Leabu (While the Children Sleep) is “scene stealer” Jason White although he’s having asthma the kid sure knows how to play the piano!

The project landed on so many hands already but Bryan was the one able to take the helm coming from WB blessings! Many bashed and gave mixed criticisms on the film’s premise and take on the character, especially for fan boys who wanted this to be action oriented film; yet, it was taken into an emotional standpoint instead and people waited a long time for the boy in blue to swayed more on the red spectrum (his aggressive side)!

The onset of choosing the talent to bring in the qualities of Superman into the big screen was instantaneous coming from a former fashion model! Brandon Routh (Dylan Dog) is the Earth bound alien Kal-El also known as Clark Joseph Kent a Reporter from the Daily Planet. The actor was given the huge task of filling the shoes of the superhero icon! His uncanny resemblance and stature with the late precursor gave his portrayal an easier take on the role seeing it was more inclined to the direction of continuing the story of Superman II leaving a gap of five years from where he and the rest of the cast stands right now!

He did a great job in my honest opinion watching the film was reminiscent of the original take on the Last Kryptonian a man who came back from his search of his native planet Krypton. Brandon gives more in depth take of the orphan who longs for acceptance and the need to belong in his new home! Relationship wise, you could see his envy, his pain for the man who now holds the love of his life. Here she is, Kate Bosworth (Blue Crush) is still correcting her spelling in her reports; she is the unwavering Lois Lane part time mother, part time lover, full time co-worker on the same newspaper!

On the other hand, I was not impressed on the CGI aspect covered by Sony Pictures Imageworks Inc. where they took care of the Visual Effects and Animation, it was not how much of it was on screen time but I just wished it was generated efficiently especially in the technology available today! Also, Kate was not able to give the character enough justice as it falls so easily out of place, the same as with James Marsden (X-Men) is Richard White, a pilot and nephew to the Daily Planet Editor-in-Chief Perry White portrayed by Frank Langella (Junior). He seems to get a knack of being the third wheel in a love triangle, step up the plate man!

The same concept, same malevolent scheming Lex Luthor is portrayed by Kevin Spacey (K-Pax). One of the prolific actors of his generation, you will definitely hate his portrayal being the nemesis of the eternal boy scout! Delivery of his lines and how he incessantly schemes shows both intelligence and his ego come into fruition (or not). His partner in crime Parker Posey (Blade Trinity) Kitty Kowalski brings her dual take on the villain conspiring with the mad genius and having a conscience that will later prove undeserved for any rescuing!

Great moments like these are worth mentioning: One of the most epic, breath taking scenes in this film or in any other is how Superman was able to get to work after releasing the shuttle for orbital flight he was able to overtake, slam on wing debris a couple of times and with enough stopping power land the plane to safety! Another aspect was with regards to his developed speed, he covered more cities (fiction and non-fiction) like never before from Metropolis, Manila, Cairo, Houston, Gotham, Shanghai, Paris and even hints on Europe as well!

Not being overrated coming from an alien who has big time immigration issues! There is a reason why he is called Superman not “Superalien”, a Man who represents both the instilled gifts of humanity while having our flaws as well. It sounds condescending from his point seeing that he was alone and even if there is so much prejudice coming from every angle, he will still give, try the best of his capacity to save his new home and his “new” family! I’m a fan and if we try to understand, to look deeper on what he represents, what he can do then it would be an easier pill to swallow!

Bryan was able to emphasize his feats of strength, combination of abilities; selflessness and courage while finding his reasons to be the protector that he was meant for in which case were predominantly present in his endeavor to rescue Metropolis City from collapsing and to have enough time to rescue the people he loves!

Overall, the film was good with some idle (redundant) moments but was fun watching nevertheless! After it only garnered $200 million in the box office, WB was not pleased with the outtake and finally decided to reboot the franchise and give it a fresh take! A new Director Zack Snyder is in charge now, with a background emphasized on Special effects the film inclined to provide plenty of action and the end result on everything and everyone was they were all over the place literally!

The “Man of Steel” ponders hmmm…

Green Lantern (2011)

The ring intended to rule them all! Sadly, it did not have enough will power!

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with DC Entertainment and De Line Pictures present…

Created by Writer John Broome and Artist Gil Kane on October 1959 from the comic book Showcase #22, the second Green Lantern to wield the power of the emerald light! The era was called the Silver Age since a previous character with the same alias was inducted, but Hal Jordan was the first one to join the Corps and at the same time was a founding member of the Justice League of America!

Born from Martin Jordan, Captain Harold “Hal” Jordan a test pilot for ASAF was branded as the “most fearless and expensive” by his comrades. Following his father’s footsteps after he died, Hal made sure to continue his father’s legacy and was gifted indeed…

On a given mission, he saw a wreckage from a fallen starship and as he cradled the alien passenger, he said that he was Abin Sur. Before he died, the ring that he had was looking for someone that was “utterly honest and born without fear” and so Hal was given the ring and a lantern that transformed his life forever. With this new power, he learned that the alien was a member of Green Lantern Corps formed by The Guardians in the planet Oa. Also, here the Central Battery is found charging every lantern in the cosmos. Now, he is to protect and serve Sector 2814 where Earth is also located.

This was comic books next in line for Superman and Batman, the highly awaited main event to at least put more muscle in DC’s line-up of superstars and yet every star collapses leaving an empty vacuum of darkness…sadly it wasn’t its time!

I told myself and kept on repeating: this is a movie, not a comic book; this is a movie not a comic book and tried so hard to embrace the film’s own point of view. Let alone to even grasp on what they did to the film since it was blown way out of proportion, the canon, the history and the characters.

The prologue for me was epic until I heard him say things that were not in line and expected. From here, people will have to; need to understand that there will be different ways and means to present something to the market. I took it upon myself that this is only part of the process where you try to inculcate something and let it gust in the wind. Frankly, I did admire their efforts in making this film to make it the best thing that they can especially with the CGI and Green screen, it has helped give more levity to magnificent backgrounds while inputting digital imagery to flow with its intended environment.

I did even remember a few other films that made headway or not with regards to available technology in their respective time, Spawn was a good example, another was Batman of Tim Burton and of course Richard Donner’s Superman.

WILL POWER

From the time it was announced, following news and casting for the film was a riot! This film was really expected to be great. For the fact that Ryan Gosling was being courted to be their Hal Jordan and from the likes of Justin Timberlake and rising star Bradley Cooper as runner-ups for the contested title. With all the energy built into one goal, to make this film stand out, rock and light more films from DC to come!

Director Martin Campbell is highly regarded and I loved his work in Casino Royale but I believe he does not know anything about comic books! Even the action sequences were abysmal, the training in Oa, the people running and screaming, the helicopter crash party to name a few. For the music and soundtrack it still holds its own. I can listen to the space saga infused collaborations that fit perfectly to the sequences of the film.

The cast was not even to blame Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal), Blake Lively (Simon Says), Mark Strong and the rest meant well and did their parts to make things work, to be honest I even find Peter Sarsgaard’s (Jarhead) portrayal as a villain to be innately creepy, it was good but did not have that charisma to make it linger more as a character. In another curve, the love dynamic between the two main protagonists were inert, stressful and without any consideration. Still, we can call it a relationship even if it was flawed.

The bitter performances were Tim Robbins (War of the Worlds) and Angela Bassett (Nothing but the Truth), it was terrible, short and inadequate! Especially for the latter who plays Dr. Amanda Waller who is a pivotal character in the DC Universe.

When you read this review is looks like a reprimand on a losing team which breaks my heart in spite of all that was done, it was a huge disappointment and we do hope that there will be a little more light of will power to shine for a next Green Lantern!

INSTILLED FEAR

The fear that will need to die is how they indoctrinated the Green Lantern Corps and yes, many did lost their lives for the common goal and that is to protect the universe from all evil… but what are they all doing in Oa most of the time?

Out of those 3600 Lanterns who seem always on the planet don’t they have patrol duty or something?!?! Not just raising their arms, a gung-ho here and there being led by Sinestro as their Corp Commander! I was even ecstatic to know that Mark Strong (Sunshine) will play the role of the villain; this is one talented actor who can do this over a million times and that’s how much I respect the guy.

To the main character, I believe he did his part but to make a side note, Ryan is technically a comedian he only did Amityville Horror and Buried as another way to expand his horizons. But to point out clearly, come on! He’s always jumpy, yes I too laughed in his antics and that’s what he brought to the screen but speaking of Hal Jordan as who he is…he will be better off with another person to handle the ring.

The CGI charade had eaten up all the possible story telling of the film. There were only a few moments that Green Lanterns were shown or used specifically Kilowag voiced by Michael Clarke Duncan (Daredevil) and to Geoffrey Rush (The Tailor of Panama) to give life to Tomar-Re. Even other reputable Lanterns were just screen shots.

To the tent pole character the Cinematography of Dion Beebe (Memoirs of a Geisha) and the Film Editing of Stuart Baird (Superman). You’re kidding right? Both these men help made films that were phenomenal, how on Earth or space for that matter did this film turn out this way?

To Greg Berlanti (Arrow), Marc Guggenheim (Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters), Michael Goldenburg (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix) and Michael Green (Heroes) all did the Screenplay and the Story itself. This montage was actually, literally built on bits and pieces that just needed to be welded up to make the whole picture, it became lame and without focus from jumping into scenes that were all just mixed up!

All these things culminate and thus instill fear. It’s about how the story and pacing went it was so bombarded by Special Effects and there was no room to let the actors shine or even redeem themselves.

REDEMPTION OVER RAGE

One thing that should be questioned here is the involvement of a Guardian to be Parallax! He turned into a space spanning demonic squid that can even be compared to Hellboy’s Ogdru Jahad and Fantastic Four’s massive clod…I mean cloud Galactus!

Of course anyone would say that it’s how the story should go… fine but it only proves shallow disposition on how a certain entity that made this universe tremble with fear has to be one of Oa’s Guardians!

Another factor was, why did the Guardians had the power to forge a Yellow Ring? Ok it was given to Sinestro, but the story dictates it was the Weaponers of Qward who found the Yellow Energy in the anti-matter universe, forged the rings and helped Sinestro build his own Corps. You did not just kill the movie but the possibility of a very good sequel or sequels!

Speaking of which, why can they just have the origins and have the Manhunters serve as villains? Then follow through with Sinestro Corps and then the Blackest Night Saga? Just my two cents.

To Geoff Johns, are you happy? Because you don’t’ deserve it! You let this film crumble down like the inhabitants of Sector 666, you of all mentors of this project has a lot of explaining to do especially to the fans who at least were trying to see a film that involves the trustworthiness of a comic book for a long period of time.

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

“A hero can be anyone. Even a man doing something as simple and reassuring as putting a coat around a little boy’s shoulders to let him know that the world hadn’t ended.“

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures, Syncopy Films and DC Comics present…

The die is cast…and so has fate that took the fire but its ember remains burning in our hearts and minds!

This generation’s most awe inspiring Director, Christopher Nolan (Memento) together with his brother Jonathan Nolan (The Dark Knight) laboring on Screenplay and helping him create this epic story is none other than David Goyer (Blade 2). As they set their sights to reinvigorate the masses with their own take of the best crime fighter of all time from hereon they never looked back! It was a pure standout, flat out, smart take on the “greatest superhero” to be recognized for the past 73 years since his inception in May 1939 courtesy of Bob Kane and Bill Finger through DC Comics!

Their collaboration has defined certain set pieces in the comic book arena. Fanboys and to some aficionados can relate to what stories influenced the Dark Knight Rises. First, there was a prison escape but not from Arkham Asylum which was iterated in Batman Begins but rather from Blackgate Prison where the most vile criminals of the city finds haven. This concept came from the “No Man’s Land” series where Bane actually spearheaded the escape to make his ends meet. Secondly, it was pretty obvious that the breaking of the bat has taken place in “Knightfall” another series which comes right after NML where Bane finds our over fatigued hero in his Batcave (don’t get me wrong, the wrestler look alike is intellectually gifted as well) who deduced the identity of Batman and with a shattering blow, broke his spine! Lastly, though not related from the former two stories, the hero comes back to retake his city, in this best selling tale of Frank Miller “The Dark Knight Returns”, it was created in an unspecified year in the near future where gangs called Mutants run amok in the city wherein a 55 year old Bruce Wayne sets out to put an end with their tyranny and oppression but the only question is…can he do it alone especially when there is no more room for vigilantism?

People will always rise up no matter how hard they fall…

THE PLEDGE

A tragic loss that led into a journey that no one has ever come back from. Training while on recluse to sharpen his mind, make his body perfectly fit and his will to be incorruptible, Bruce set-out on different lands searching for a way to destroy evil! While broken pieces of the past still emanate from his memories that consummates pain, suffering and anger! This is where his other persona was born, from the darkness and from his dread! People will see how one man dedicate his whole being to be a hero in protecting Gotham City and its residents or will they see him as a “monster” imposing to rule with fear!

And so it begins!

THE TURN

As escalating organized crime has come to its peak, whispers in the dark alleys by both common thugs to the big time gangsters has been going around and they don’t have the mentality of cooperating nor backing down from this terrifying figure, so when push came to shove…

Here’s Joker and his wacky pal Two-Face!!!

For the sake of argument, I could say that Heath Ledger’s performance amplified the success of The Dark Knight! First, his comic book counterpart has more legions of fans compared to the muscle bound tactician!  Second, the film was gripping and compelling in a sense that it got the audience stuck to where he wants them to, as the story implied to be a villain centric theme thus it was more entertaining to watch!

While they created a one two punch for the Dark Knight, actually both of them got counter punched and fell but the only concern was…the latter never got up! Thus the hero takes the blame and found his life into seclusion! From this point, people though brilliantly swept by the said installment crave for a conclusion, to see where this spectacular series will run its course!

And now, the show must go on…

THE PRESTIGE

The relation and the comparison between the films and these magic tricks is that it was never meant just to entertain, to keep you guessing or even to astound you! But rather, it will make you realize on how one man can pursue the cause of justice, to safeguard his city, his people with his own life without anything in return! Finding the elements that connect the story from the two previous films was how Mr. Nolan and crew started to deliver the first 2 acts of the show!

Certain inputs that form the logic of how Christopher manages to instill key points in the story he is presenting will still be the case in point by the audience but they will follow on through once the curtain rises! While his leading actor threw off the public in another direction on how he feels about having Robin the progenitor of sidekicks in the comic books to the big screen and he even gave a statement in an interview that it was not his decision in the first place to what he want or not want to be included in the film (laughing). Well done Mr. Bale!

The man of the hour, Christian Bale (Harsh Times) is billionaire, philanthropist and former caped crusader Bruce Wayne! He returns from his exile, battered and broken which was given has come to terms with another madman taking over his territory! Sadly, he was not given enough time on screen since there were too many of them to share the story although his voice improved it still sounded like a “cat got his tongue”! Still, a great undertaking for the actor to comply the comic book icon’s sense of justice and to give his best representation to one of the “World’s Finest”!

Straight away into the premise, 8 years have passed since the “White Knight” of Gotham has enacted a Law that halted criminality in the city. People moved on and life moved on for everyone except for the very few who actually knew what really happened the night that left Harvey Dent lying on his back after falling from grace!

A brief statement for the departed, Gary Oldman (Romeo is Bleeding) reprising the role of the ever dedicated Commissioner James Gordon, still working in the field to do his job with his troops. While a rookie police officer by the name of John Blake is portrayed by Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Uncertainty) who was never been actually part of the bigger picture in the last two installments, he was taken in and promoted by Gordon to help him investigate the origins of this Bane. Speaking of investigating, Officer Blake was given by the Director an identity that actually comprises 3 pivotal characters while combining these facets of being an orphan, headstrong and the insight of deduction that actually makes him susceptible and yet adamant moral undertakings is only given proof to his cause to protect the people no matter the cost and that makes him a hero in my book!

While allies that support the Batman both physically and mentally, Morgan Freeman (Along Came a Spider) still employed while walking away last time, is very eager to show his Boss his new toys! Why the Butler did left his Master in his most desperate hours? Michael Caine (Fire Down Below) never gave up with his surrogate since son he was still trying to inculcate the values of his parents and for being a Wayne but we believe that there was a reason why he needed to go away.

Because the main antagonist is about to make his grand entrance of course! He came out of nowhere just like from the previous films where the first one was discrete, the second crazy chaotic now, this new menace that was spitted out by hell has crawled out of it to impose dominance through terror! His counterpart Bane from the might of Tom Hardy (Warrior) gives emphasis on control, authority and destruction showing his disposition on how he can be a cold blooded killer who takes lives without any remorse, he even sounded like Sean Connery in a Darth Vader helmet at times or was it just me?  While the other side of the coin is Batman who serves as a light, a beacon, a glimmer of hope, a bastion for the people and the city! A side story was given (it compliments it, seeing that Mr. Nolan is a Master of non-linear filming) on how Bane rose to power coming from the same League of Shadows that Ra’s Al Ghul built to eradicate society and trample governments!

The corporate people yes, scrupulous and corrupt like Max Shreck and John Daggett, can anyone also compare their intentions in both stories on how they became indirectly or directly part in the femme fatale’s involvement in the plot? Even certain hints from giant alligators (Killer Croc), a member of the board (cough, Roland Dagett’s origins in the animated series) being implicated in the comic books for creating the shape shifting chameleon (Clayface) was inclusive in the film!

While wild women on the back door coming from seemingly timid maid turned sophisticated in mere seconds! A Charity ball where Mr. Wayne and Ms. Kyle dances as synonymous to Batman Returns “strange” couple coming from Michael Keaton’s aforementioned statement! Anne Hathaway (Havoc) presents her version of Selina Kyle also known as the thief, Catwoman! She did a wonderful job considering how she can be genuinely atune to her character’s intriguing relationship with the Bat at the same time being a loner who just needs to eat as well!  Not crazy about her fight scenes but acting wise, it was sublime!

Another lady in waiting have said that bringing balance into the world was also weighing on her own revenge as for Bruce’s assets to be used wisely and investing on her would be to die for! Miranda Tate shows her love for her protector, as another Inception alumnus Marion Cotillard (Little White Lies) does make sure she is not left behind when all things crumble down! A fine actress who has a knack of playing women who falls in love with men who have sociopathic issues (Taxi, Public Enemies, Inception). Nevertheless, she was worth to watch but not this time!

Don’t forget the recurring villains left and right like a brief cameo by Liam Neeson (Darkman) as the immortal Ra’s Al Ghul aka the Demon’s Head, seemingly a delusion, a figment of Bruce imagination or his fears that has come back to haunt him! I even can’t help but laugh when Cillian Murphy (28 Days Later) who really needs a straightjacket, Dr. Jonathan Crane was shown on top of some sort of debris playing “Queen of Hearts” to Gotham’s wealthiest and bravest, frankly there were too many characters and I have completely forgotten about him and yet Scarecrow though even given only a few minutes in the spotlight made it memorable and funny! (now, Christopher exiles you).

Outstandingly delivered performances and casts that were very into character which tribute these actors and actresses to play the part, as they were phenomenal! I give the Director and Casting by John Papsidera (The Crazies) and Toby Whale (3 Blind Mice) a pat on the back for a job well done in choosing roles carefully coming from this menagerie of talent!

Cinematographer Wally Pfister (Insomnia) has been collaborating with Christopher since Memento in 2000 and it was a long road for these two! He made great shots on the city landscape as it provides the enormity of chaos brought forth in this hostile take-over! Executive Producers as usual behind the real financing of the Bat are Michael Uslan (Batman & Robin) and Benjamin Melniker (The Spirit) who gave their life to see the hero properly presented to the masses that have spanned for decades!

On the downside, there were so many elements that comprised the film that left gaps which I concur were necessary to keep pace with the interaction between the characters in order to convey the story and still try to make it work, but unfortunately it didn’t! Instances like (1) the girl named Jen, a close friend of Selina who was nowhere to be found, got forgotten when Gotham is on a brink of civil war and a bomb that is about to go off; (2) how did a leg brace helped Bruce kick a brick wall when actually he was still recuperating more so from the pain?; (3) how did Bruce Wayne coming out from the pit got back in Gotham just in time to save the city?; (4) how did the Commissioner survived unscathed  when the truck carrying the bomb when he was actually at the back while Miranda just expired her last breath without any visible injuries? And the most queried of all (5) how does Batman, bleeding internally more even escaped a nuclear blast…in the middle of the ocean?!? to name a few! Although it was kind of lengthy, yes, but it needs to have purpose with clear intent not to give it shortcuts just to get on with the timeframe, the editing department should need to explain this (same concerns with the wall crawler film)! Though I still regard it as an epic scale in cinema making in spite of its flaws! It was grittier, had a wider scoped storytelling and was emotionally driven! A monumental film which deserves another shot at the Oscars including in my humblest opinion for Best Director, Cinematography, Casting and Ensemble Cast!

EPILOGUE

So it goes, his purpose defeats the whim of any man, for his dedication never backs down, it never fails to pave his goals, seeing this was his destiny as his life will be seen by many and more so with his legacy! In another place and time, someone sips a cup of coffee while eyeing a familiar couple was just a fantasy at first. While another explores and learns what it means to practice “spelunking”, as he tries to get his balance from his swing entry…he RISES!

Superhero films tend to be clichéd with aesthetic content due to its fantasy laden elements, but not with this trilogy. It was grounded to reality as Christopher envisioned it, he gave an absolutely humanistic approach that inspires people to have courage, honor and integrity, that’s what it means to ante-up the given genre even if it was based on science fiction! Films like these will forever be marked in each and one of us, as the cinema crowd stood for an ovation, powerfully moving indeed! We thank you Director Christopher Nolan to your staff, crew and the cast that made this a truly unforgettable experience! But least we not forget, for those who have died and were injured in Colorado, our prayers are with you and may you all heal in time!  To Heath, you will be missed!

So it ends…people have seen it, witnessed it! The film permeates the series with a bang and then a whimper (pun intended). Show is over folks, it is finally revealed! So until the cape and cowl is worn once again, don’t let the fire stop burning since every ending is a new beginning…

The Dark Knight (2008)

“Oh, you. You just couldn’t let me go, could you? This is what happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object. You truly are incorruptible, aren’t you? You won’t kill me out of some misplaced sense of self-righteousness. And I won’t kill you because you’re just too much fun. I think you and I are destined to do this forever.”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures, Syncopy Films and DC Comics present…

Batman was created by Bob Kane in the late 1930’s; never did he imagine his debuted superhero would become a cult phenomenon for the next 70 years! Based on DC Comics, the gritty crime fighter has been regarded as the greatest character in comic book history!

In this sequel from Batman Begins, the story encompassed a wider perspective of Gotham City’s notorious mobs and crime lords! Directed by Christopher Nolan (The Prestige) and from a Screenplay of his brother Jonathan Nolan (Memento) and Story of David Goyer (Blade) unprecedented and highly praised, superbly crafted to mesmerize the senses that provided not just entertainment but also with mind blowing performances! This film made history and considered brilliantly made, ranked as one of the highest grossing films amassing more than $ 1 B worldwide in ticket sales not just in the comic book genre but of all time!

The charismatic chameleon Christian Bale (The Machinist) redefines the meaning of a “hero” as he makes another standstill struggle of wits and blood in the much talked about sequel! The Dark Knight gave more emphasis on how he places himself at the forefront and does everything in his capacity to save Gotham City from tyranny and corruption. Now, without a home Bruce must come into terms with the realization of being able to sacrifice one’s life and yet not to be taken as a hero which is just an understatement for the Batman. As inferred, Bruce Wayne is the real mask of the character wherein it only gives him more instigation to have a personality that keeps him sane and to hide away his pain!

The opening shot was incredible, it gave a surreal feeling coming from a higher ground where the “Clowns” is gathering up for a heist with The Joker, a psychopathic maniac portrayed by the irreplaceable late Heath Ledger (A Knight’s Tale), a superb feat indeed! He provided a pivotal role not just for being a character that is already well known but, also took villainy into his own likeness. Heath gave this most vile lunatic the ante-up from the campy Jack Nicholson version in 1989, though both have their unique take, the current villain makes it so disturbingly fun to watch. The delivery of his performance proves it’s worth deserving his posthumous Academy’s Best Supporting Actor Award!

Another well casted talent is the hard working Harvey Dent, portrayed by Aaron Eckhart (The Black Dahlia) he took a big bite out of the mob and can’t chew it no longer (not with that jaw!) pun intended. He was the White Knight, a shining beacon for Gotham City but it was too much for him even the collective efforts with Commissioner Gordon and Batman. Every little thing is made clearer to him than what he knows and how he perceives it.

As the Joker said “it’s all part of the plan” which surmounted a persona born out of anger and madness! Aaron gave a surreal take on the temperamental District Attorney encompassing both his relations with the justice system and the dark qualities that he fails to hide away especially when Rachel is in the picture!

James Gordon, the always steadfast and commendable Gary Oldman (Air Force One), from Sergeant, as head of a special task force and now Commissioner not because he was the only option in a corrupted police force but he knows what’s going on and for him to clean up the city from its rotting core is his primary objective. As Commissioner Loeb was poisoned by the Joker, the city’s Mayor promoted him from his valued work and to help maintain control in all the chaos Gotham City is in now! Gary doesn’t need to prove anything; he is a very remarkable actor that every Director would like to work with. He makes a very inspiring turnaround from the usual villainy he portrays on screen like “Dracula”, “The 5^th Element”, “Air Force One”, “The Professional” and the most recent “Book of Eli”!

Technology is not an issue with the Dark Knight, but sometimes someone needs to purchase them in order to be able to keep his schedule intact. Enter Lucius Fox the trusted friend and ally, he is given life by Morgan Freeman (Along Came a Spider) the ever supportive logistics person for the Batman. He is one of the very few people that know Batman’s true identity and has been helping him in running his company, coordinating targets and supplying armaments, weaponry and the latest technological advancements available considering his last provision The Tumbler which is now customized with another new vehicle inside it simply named The Pod, not your typical motorcycle with monster wheels! One thing had left me questioning though, will his last assignment be the end of their partnership? Morgan is the quintessential talent for Lucius, smart, has integrity, calm demeanor and as always, a versatile actor tested over and over again!

The torn between two lovers Rachel Dawes is played by Maggie Gyllenhaal (The Secretary), replacing Katie Holmes from the first film, she is a city prosecutor in the crossroads with her affection for Bruce and her intimacy with hotshot Lawyer Harvey Dent have been proven fatal not just for her but for her suitors as well and only time will tell whether she will have to live with her decision before everything is too late!

What can you say about Alfred Pennyworth?  The ever loyal confidant, surrogate father Michael Caine (Harry Brown) he’s the Butler who stood by Bruce Wayne even since before he was born having served the Wayne family for many years and still up to now by his side. I admired their dynamic from bantering to brooding as well as condoning the man he still calls Master! More importantly, he provides that sense of right direction and morals in which Bruce will learn to understand how much more pain he can endure and embrace it not just with his mind but also with his heart!

Even the Mob was well casted technically there were three gangs involved in the movie, from Gamble acted by Michael Jai White (Spawn), Chechen portrayed by Ritchie Coster (American Gangster) (derived from the Russian) and Salvatore Maroni from the talent of Eric Roberts (Crimes of the Past) who all made life miserable…for themselves with the heartfelt and genuine assistance of the “Ace of Knaves”!

The Dark Knight was a film that invigorated the populace with intrigue, smart scriptwriting and a whole lot of lip service! Shot in IMAX cameras, (a very lucrative decision indeed), Christopher was able to execute fantastic angles and capture elements of the film that gave it more horizon and depth like the Prologue bank robbery, the towering cityscape of Hong Kong and its ICF Tower shots, the Gotham General Hospital scene and the final face off to name a few. It certainly gives not just wider detailed backgrounds but to support further its real intention as He keeps the right pace of storytelling in check to really capture the audiences’ imagination by letting them feel what it’s like living in this mundane world where corruption is a circus and the Joker as the center of attraction!

To add, his consistent partner in crime Hans Zimmer (The Last Samurai) and James Newton Howard (Unbreakable) gave an original sound to fully capture the noir and palpable world of Batman! Mixing erratic high pitches with bass undertones as it infinitely conveys terror and unpredictability while incorporating it with fluid machinations in perfect sequences that will either give you a sinister grin or a smile in concurring proclivities!

The performance was genuinely phenomenal; the chaotic premise grows irreversibly coherent as it made more significant undertakings on how the story was able to evolve into something more transparent, more disturbing and malevolent for the backdrop of the film!

On a lighter side, I noticed that there were three recurring scenes that were somewhat referenced to the 1989 Batman film:

1. The first take was when Heath gave a memorable entrance to implement his plan to kill the Dark Knight and aggravating Michael Jai one of the crime boss in the gathering while not forgetting his “hurtful” words, the former kills the latter at his own joint. In the 1989 film, after turning into the Joker, Jack held a meeting for all the gangsters in Gotham and one of them did not agree so, he electrocuted the guy in a “handshake” that burned him to death!

2. The second occurrence was the Pod being shot at by the Heath while instigating Christian to hit him as the latter swerves to avoid his nemesis and crashes his bike while in the original take the Batwing was also shot at by Jack while cursing to make Michael hit him before he crash lands into the streets.

3. The third instance was the climactic fight scene in the abandoned building looking over Gotham Bay. Heath got Christian pinned down and the latter releases his blades from his armored shin guards sending Heath plummeting down the side of the building, he is then tagged by his feet by Christian’s grapple gun. On the other hand, the Tim Burton version was at the Cathedral with the same final scene with the two main actors, Jack was dancing while Michael and Kim hang for dear life, while the former was climbing the ladder of his getaway Copter, he was ensnared by the grapple gun that Michael shot at him but the only difference was Jack fell into his death.

The only downturn for me was Batman’s voice…which I believe can be somewhat irritating and slurred especially when he’s aggravated. Overall, the film was a magna opus and juxtaposed fluidity of sequences that takes you to different heights of suspense and excitement! Speaking of heights, at least this time he “jumped” from the parking lot and not throwing a “chainsaw” to his escaping victim (psyche!!!).

To the cast and crew, a job well done! To Heath, re-imagining the Joker will always be etched in our minds! It takes all the strength you can muster to conceive and put into play his insanity and menacing wickedness to come to life in the big screen for all of us to experience and enjoy!

Rest in peace Heath Ledger!

Now, the third and last installment of the franchise where “Every Journey has a beginning.” will come into fruition. The media hype is unprecedented as we await remorseless Villains and unlikely Allies to finally bring the “Bat” into full circle while putting his back into it!

Batman Begins (2005)

“They told me there was nothing out there, nothing to fear. But the night my parents were murdered I caught a glimpse of something. I’ve looked for it ever since. I went around the world, searched in all the shadows. And there is something out there in the darkness, something terrifying, something that will not stop until it gets revenge… Me.”

Warner Bros. Pictures in association with Legendary Pictures, Syncopy Films and DC Comics present…

Visionary creators Artist Bob Kane and Writer Bill Finger gave debut to the fictional superhero in Detective Comics No. 27 in May 1939. The development of the most popular character in the history of comic books was given headway by drawing inspiration on the like of The Phantom, Doc Savage, Zorro, The Shadow and the “Worlds’ Greatest Detective” Sherlock Holmes. Over the years, Batman has given insurmountable access on wealth, resources and state of the art technology to fight criminals not just in Gotham City but in the world over!

Director Christopher Nolan (Memento) breathes new life in the epic story of one of the world’s most famous fictional characters transpired endlessly in history in any medium from books, graphic novels, TV series and films! Anchoring on the “origin” of fear, his vision for the reboot of the “Dark Knight” has made it comes across in the real world bringing urban warfare, criminality and corruption at its very core! Since the previous failure of 1990’s film series (we are talking about the third and fourth installments), Christopher and acclaimed Writer David Goyer (Blade) worked on the script in 2003 to give it a more gritty take and realism!

Their combined work helped the actualization of the film, with comic book origins Batman: The Man Who Falls deals with Bruce as a boy who fell from the well and started to gain these fears of bats. While Batman: The Long Halloween from Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale gave inspiration to the gang lord Carmine “The Roman“ Falcone who controls the underbelly of the city’s rotting state and lastly, Batman: Year One which encompasses the premise of the film in terms of Bruce’s recluse from life serving as a catalyst from his hiatus and coming back to Gotham to be its protector with the help of an old friend Police Officer Jim Gordon!

Music was brought to us by the tandem of Hans Zimmer (Renaissance Man) and James Newton Howard (The Fugitive) where it brings a gritty and monumental take on the film’s soundtrack, their inputs and timing synchronizes flawlessly with the background and situation the characters play in! While Director of Photography, Wally Pfister (Insomnia) captured breathe taking shots from the mountains of Iceland to cover the “journey” and going back to in the gritty cityscapes Chicago and London to represent the hero’s city! Casting by John Papsidera (Catwoman) and Lucinda Syson (The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen) was fantastic, citing not just Award Winners but also remarkable actors and actresses to give full meaning on the Director’s take on the film!

Executive Producers as usual is Michael Uslan (Batman) and Benjamin Melniker (Shoot) always gives their full support on any Batman projects that would enable a much given recognition not just for the fans but for readers and audiences as well!

Rising star and fan favorite Christian Bale (American Psycho) is Gotham’s son, Bruce Wayne! / Batman! I can even see his resemblance to Mr. Kane; with a long starkly face that would become the icon that everyone would remember! He was chosen from a long list of actors ranging from Jake Gyllenhaal, Hugh Dancy, Billy Cruddup, Joshua Jackson and even Cillian Murphy was included in the line-up. Christian gave the Director what was actually needed to portray the different facets of Bruce’s and Batman’s character giving emphasis on his playboy persona, the angry young student and the emotional and yet mature man! These became his masks as the crime fighter took over his disposition in life!

Michael Caine (Cider House Rules) is the ageless Butler Alfred pennyworth who served the Wayne Family for generations; his unrelinquishing care and support for the Master has given the focal point of being a surrogate father figure for the troubled and lonely man.  Together with Jim Gordon who was one of the first few people who console the orphan! Gary Oldman (Criminal Law) on the other hand, engages the honest cop who works for a corrupt police department! He is one of the very few people that Batman trusts and by doing so; help each other to save the city!

DA Rachel Dawes is portrayed by petite Katie Holmes (Disturbing Behavior) a childhood friend and confidant for Bruce; they were even given a sort of “love” back story but was  never really explored and given depth making Katie just a filler for the film to come into full circle! On the other end, her main “affection” was given to Carmine Falcone is the city’s main gangster he is played by Tom Wilkinson (Jilting Joe) their dynamic as prosecutor and a main figure in crime gives it susceptibility to keep the story going to work in the background! Tom as always provides a commendable performance his straightforward wickedness combined with brutality makes him more fun to watch!

International mainstay Ken Watanabe (The Last Samurai) is Rah’s Al Ghul (consequently) the Head of the League of Shadows and Liam Neeson (Gangs of New York) is man-hunter and The League’s “front man” Henri Ducard, they the one-two punch of the group seeking to impose “justice” as they see it fit and destroy everything that comes in their way! Their loyal supporters such as Dr. Jonathan Crane also known as the Scarecrow, Cillian Murphy (On the Edge) brings his creepiness and ante-up the game of cat and mouse seeking to poison the water pipelines, he’s undertakings can be attributed for his loyalty to his Masters agenda!

More supporting casts which brings the film full circle is none other than Morgan Freeman (Bruce Almighty), who was perfectly casted, an ally to Batman’s cause he is Lucius Fox serving as weapons and transportation supplier!  Mark Boone Junior (Lonesome Jim) is the bulking bully Police Officer Det. Arnold John Flass who also came from the Year One storyline as Gordon’s partner. Linus Roache (Beyond Borders) is Dr. Thomas Wayne and the passive Sara Stewart (3 Blind Mice) is Martha Wayne, the father had clearly shown his love for his son, from his fall until the time of their demise!

The film was given high praises seeing on how Bruce’s need to become the hero that he was meant to be is absolutely taken genuinely from its comic books and graphic novels. His will and motivation to be the living symbol of justice as a precursor to his city has made it even more fascinating to experience! Truly an outstanding piece that will forever be etched not just in this generation but in the next century as well!

Now, a newly promoted Lt. Jim Gordon awaits for his ally to arrive, he needs help on a “psychopath” running around in the city, he left a calling card…I bet Batman will definitely have a ”smile on his face” when he meets this guy!

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (2013)

The follow-up adaptation from Frank Miller’s arsenal, it’ll kick the teeth out of you and you’ll still end up smiling!

Warner Bros. Animation in association with DC Entertainment and Warner Home Video present…

We now give you the second installment from the direct to DVD animated feature film! As winter grows colder by the day, the story became more revealing compared to the first part of the series seeing how officials run their state while the upper echelon gets greedier wanting to own more lands and provoke war no matter how many lives are at stake!

Gaining the authority from the Mutants broken down leader, Batman has now become the battle cry of a new congregation “The Sons of Batman”! From here, it does not get any better when James Gordon from the talent of David Selby (The Super Cops) steps down and hands over his duties to upcoming Commissioner, Ellen Yindel who was voiced by Maria Canals Barrera (Cop and A Half).

A profound speech was given by the former Chief, contrite but with all honesty that the work he has done for his city was not meant for the faint of heart and in times of uncertainty, panic and chaos you will need an ally who will help you to restore order! In spite of the handing over ceremony, the Batman was condemned for his vigilantism and notoriety went up another notch while being ostracized by the media, civilians and the police department and to makes things worse, the newly appointed officer announced a warrant of arrest!

So goes the manhunt…

There were multiple fronts that were relayed in the premise considering that countries and people vies to be the best and to be the strongest and with this arrogance, it has never been antiquated by our lust for power and destruction! In this era, superheroes are mere puppets by the government, controlling them to bid their own will. But the Batman does not overlook these permutations and believes that human rights are vigilant especially in Gotham City; a strong leader does not need to show force as a way to convince the populace that peace and order is still a choice!

While one man and a sidekick continually contests the law with their own bare hands! Another man watches quietly the television and gains an epiphany on how he was always been so hated and becomes sober. While a trusting soul who offers him solace, a chance for retribution and for everyone’s salvation commences! Enter… (don’t forget your lipstick) The Joker! Dumbfounded at first he soon realized that Batsy’s the only one getting the attention, why not try me for size he says? He was voiced by the eccentric and exceptional Michael Emerson (Straight Jacket) who has given the “Clown Prince of Crime” a remarkable comeback after being humiliated for so many years. While making for his grand entrance for a public television show with his very reputable “shrink”, Batman and the new Robin voiced once more by Ariel Winter (Life is Hot in Cracktown) gets some playtime with the Police Department (not too rough guys).

This is where all hell breaks loose… (but wait, that’s just the first round!)

As the war goes on in Corto Maltese between the UnIted States and Russia, in retaliation the latter sends a nuclear war head only to be thwarted but without a price as it left a country wide blackout in which chaos reigned, but not in his city not in this vulnerable time!

This is absolutely brilliant coming from the mind of Frank Miller (Sin City) who sends everyone down to their knees with its gripping storytelling. A future where outlaws rule and shoot to kill is bequeathed to be enforced! One of the few animated films that consent mature audiences seeing the conspiracy, betrayal, violence, cursing, murder and societal poverty conditions which runs amok among the communities! Another aspect I liked was that it did not just focus on Batman’s universe with Alfred Pennyworth and Selina Kyle on the onset but extending the context even further to other characters like Sarah Essen, Lana Lang, Jimmy Olsen and Star City’s very own Oliver Queen better known as the Green Arrow!

Directed by Jay Oliva (The Next Avengers) his background on being a Storyboard Artist helped him provide a fantastic story amalgamating it with the best in the business from voice work to Producers Michael Uslan and Benjamin Melniker with Bruce Timm and Andrea Romano serving as Lieutenants to get the job done.

Christopher Drake (Superman/Batman: Public Enemies) still provides the sound of dread and danger at the same time courage and the adamant will to survive the odds. So far we have introduced the villain and now we give you the hero of heroes, the champion of champions, the summit of strength and here he is the “Man of Steel” Superman! Mark Valley is the man and he is no stranger to DC Comics and their projects seeing that he contributed already in the hit series “Human Target” as the assassin Christopher Chance. Well diverse who fits perfectly with his given character, though you would not want to cross paths with him seeing that he has very close friends from high places. While an inevitable battle is looming in the horizon, one thing is for sure someone will die in the process! In Sun Tzu’s the “Art of War” it says that “keep your friends close and your enemies closer.” and as his sparring partner The Dark Knight prepares for the boxing main event, let us reintroduce the man behind the cape, Peter Weller (Robocop) who believes that brains always trumps brawn but of course with a little help…

All in all, another great work from the minds and hearts of DC Comics very well written though too many scenarios at a given time but it all blended well at the end. With this chapter closing its book, some friends and foes have died while others live to fight another day! I just hope they will still consider making the sequel from this graphic novel adapted screenplay. From the same Writer and Artist “The Dark Knight Strikes Again” is much darker, sicker and grittier but with mediocre ratings from fanboys and readers I think they can push on with other projects as long as it does not stay dead…or someone “super” will hear it!

 Until death do us part…or one of us dies trying!

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 (2012)

You just can’t keep an “old superhero” down!

Warner Bros. Animation in association with DC Entertainment and Warner Home Video present…

The direct to DVD animated feature film was another collaboration with an exemplary Writer and Artist, Frank Miller (Sin City) together with Klaus Janson. An absolute genius and he does it again! Not only did he provide dynamic stories he’s also never coy with human nature’s hunger for power and lust for vengeance!

Based on the groundbreaking 3 part series (for now) of the same title, the continuing saga of The Batman has never been succumbed to a halt, be it regardless of injury, old age or even death! The crime fighter does what he needs to do in order to keep his city from rotting, “Never again”!

A hero lost in time and not in his prime…

His quest, his thirst for the thrill flows in his veins like an adrenaline rush! Trying to recede from a boring life (a decade to be exact) Bruce embarks on a race trying to escape his fate as he met an accident while setting his car into overdrive which led to an inevitable loss and self loathing!

While subliminal memories that triggered an epiphany has met discernment of certain elements of his past and some pains never goes away! Peter Weller (Robocop) leads the cast with a new voice to compliment the aging Dark Knight! Old and has stopped crime fighting for a long time, Bruce in his mid 50’s has been seeking the right moment to rise again in this god forsaken city! Having a drink with Commissioner Jim Gordon voiced by David Shelby (The Super Cops) they go a long way back. Seems like they were not celebrating the latter’s impending resignation while making Bruce hold on to his identity and his sanity.

Actor and history lecturer, Peter did not get the best projects in his time but when opportunity knocked, he took the part of an iconic hero known as “Robocop” wherein a cult following for a number of fans made his film an instant classic! His influence into the character compliments it so well for it was grounded, sober and gritty.

They say that keeping it real will get you here to Sunday more ways than one! The Batman always finds a way to circumvent his machinations to display what is prim and proper in the public but for all these years, he still cannot escape the blood shot eyes of the monster that made him what he was destined to be…

Enter his ally (besides Alfred of course) Ariel Winter (Life is Hot in Cracktown) as Carrie Kelley the girl who would become Robin! You can’t compete with the enthusiasm of children and with role models like Batman who needs discipline? She is tough, smart and eager to help the Caped Crusader finish the job before it does finish them off first!

After a former friend and foe was released from custody he contemplates further with regards to his release Wade Williams (Collateral) lends his voice as Harvey Dent. History will always repeat by itself as a man seemingly cured was only skin deep but inside the former District Attorney turned criminal still lurks a madman so twisted and torn in half who does not want to live as if he was a normal again to everyone’s eyes furthermore of his own…

The use of media and pundits from Gotham’s masked vigilante have spurred endless debates even from Lana Lang of Daily Planet from Paget Brewster (My Big Fat Independent Movie) located in Metropolis home to another superhero the Man of Steel and Dr. Bartholomew Wolper played by Michael McKean (Memoirs of an Invisible Man) to attract viewers to raise awareness while shoving it down to the viewers throats. The violence and apathy looms while hope laid to waste by condescending principles that leads to crime and corruption from the youth. Society led in fear from kidnapping, extortion, robbery, terrorism and murder as Gary Anthony Williams (Soul Plane) The Mutant Leader leads the charge for Gotham City’s domination through fear!

Standing up for others while trying to get back on his own two feet quite ironic you would say? In spite his physical predicament, Batman does not condone violence in his city and he will always be its protector until his last dying breath! A city that respects him, that longs for his protection especially in these dark times. Frank Miller dissolves any convictions to the Dark Knight’s hiatus while amalgamating what remains to be seen in his never ending fight for justice!

Directed by Jay Oliva (Next Avengers: Heroes of Tomorrow) he had experience working with Marvel Comics as well and being a Storyboard Artist has helped him propel to do a Directorial duties since 2000 in TV Series such as Starship Troopers, Jackie Chan Adventures and most recently with Young Justice.

This is what I admire with DC Comics their works are further incorporated with their line of animated projects. It’s coherent and transparent even with the actual work of the artist is rendered almost perfectly to give it the surrealism it needs especially for the fans who experienced reading these published pages! There are so many titles I look forward for them to bring in the small and big screen. But hoping they would give emphasis already to other stars in their superhero line-up.

The only question here is how come they cannot instill the same competency when it comes to their live actions films? While we are still waiting for that to happen, a word (or two) from our very old dear friend who is in capable hands of Michael Emerson (Straight-Jacket) as The Joker! (“Batman, Darling!”)

Justice League: Gods and Monsters (2015)

In another world where they succumb to cruel ambiguous fate but it’s what makes them “heroes” by embracing and enduring their destiny may they be gods or monsters!

Warner Bros. Animation in association with DC Entertainment and Warner Home Video present…

The 24^th release of the straight to DVD animated feature which is directed by Sam Liu (Batman/Superman: Public Enemies) and Written by Allan Burnett and Bruce Timm takes us to alternate place and time where the three flag carriers of the DC comic universe have been given another façade but with a “not so fancy that” reaction if you will!

As the long-time Producer together with Sam Register and Writer, Bruce clearly emphasized that this is a creative story it was not taken from the lore of the comic books although same characters were still being placed to find social revenue, to adjust and interact in this brave new world! Take a peek, have a seat and get ready for their twisted fates and origins!

AN OFFSPRING OF A MEGALOMANIAC GENERAL

 The son from another father…

The timeline given for Superman was given significance in the introduction of the film heralding the escape and forging a new hope but with dire consequences. Krypton is about to explode and all it will need to have is a precursor. Jor-El together with his Wife Lara voice acted by Yuri Lowenthal (Legion of Superheroes) and Lauren Tom (The Joy Luck Club) respectively were trying to send off their supposed child to be a herald for peace and justice until General Zod played by Bruce Thomas (Babysitter Wanted) barges in and imposes the needed imprint for the last son of krypton.

His name would become Hernan Guerra raised by Mexican folks on the run from ground zero of the ship that crash landed. I even like the upbeat music that made the actual birth of the “hero” more intense thanks to Frederik Wiedmann (Beware The Batman)! Benjamin Bratt (Catwoman) gives voice of reason to the “Man of Steel” and his egotistic tendencies since he has to restrain himself (not for the lack of trying) to hurt or blast someone or something that stands in his way. The actor connects with Superman’s reform with his dilemma to seek the best means for humanity to co-exist with patented “gods” and the likes of him.

FOR HONOR, FOR PEACE AND SELF-PRESERVATION

Love and sacrifice…

Wonder Woman did not come from the mythical gods of Olympus nor was she the daughter of Zeus! Instead, a granddaughter of High Father and soon to be married with the son of Apocalypse’s Overlord Darkseid and his name was Orion. Their marriage was arranged as a peace treaty between the two worlds having been at war for so long, this may be genuine compromise or grave conquest!

A plot that coincides with both families embittered like the Capulets and the Montagues that ended with tragedy but on this end, it was only for one side and believe me it’s not the clan you think it is! Tamara Taylor (Diary of a Mad Black Woman) is Bekka daughter of Himon. Her character felt betrayal for her own brethren and the only thing she could do is escape only to realize that the guilt never leaves you but only the pain can make her stronger!

BORN BY BLOOD AND BAD INTENTIONS

The cure for cancer…

Dying of a disease, Kirk Langstrom voiced by Michael C. Hall (Dexter) makes all things possible to provide a cure for his predicament. We can see his character being held on long nights with his work specifically fixated from bats and blood and when you combine them both, there will be hell to pay!

Besides being forlorn on his journey, he is not alone given that he has the best friends anyone can ask for and by the help of Dr. William Magnus nano-technology portrayed by C. Thomas Howell (The Amazing Spider-Man) and Tina’s played by Grey DeLisle (The Fairly Odd Parents) so-called misdirected affection he will have what he needs, or so it seems…

Michael has an undertone that makes the Batman mysterious and a man of a few words, seeing how they can ante-up someone who is nocturnal but nature (and career) he breathes life to the undead and becomes a vampire! His voice blends well for the bat, it is deep sort of monotone and distinct with impassiveness. Although his actions are tangent with his intellect seeing that he is still the team’s resident strategist, he may not be as gifted in martial arts but who needs it when you’re a creature of the night, a blood sucking parasite!

PRAISE OR BE DAMNED!

This is absolutely a unique take on the “Trinity” as perceived by the DC comics universe. Now, in an alternate reality the three super beings have been making a rebellious, uneasy alliance with the government of the United States with President Amanda Waller by Penny Johnson Jerald (Castle) in the new world they live in. Perceived by the people to be cold blooded murderers who still make ends meet in spite of their procedures considering that Steve Trevor played by Tahmoh Penikett (Dollhouse) a high ranking soldier who liaises or better yet babysits the super powered trio! While Metropolis very own intrepid reporter Lois Lane voiced by Paget Brewster (Modern Family) does not make things any better while she exposes them more to be feared by the populace.

As scientists are being hunted down one by one by anonymous assailants, it was clear to see that they were in the same class of a frail and limping Dr. Lex Luthor voiced by Jason Isaacs (The Patriot) who were pioneers in different fields of technological advancements from applied physics, robotics, bio-engineering, nano-tech and the like! They include Victor Fries, Ray Palmer, Silas Stone, Pat Dugan, Ryan Choi, Karen Beecher, Emil Hamilton, Thaddeus Sivana, Michael Holt, T.O. Morrow, Stephen Shin and Kimiyo Hoshi. The collective names were either serves on neutral ground, heroes or villains in the current Earth 616 but unfortunately became cannon fodder in this film making the plot a lot less stereotyped which is easier to grasp.

Some points to ponder though, The inclusion of so many supporting characters and finding a script to read to make it tangible was a plus for me. While the idea of Luthor being Metron after tapping Krypton’s science to gain infinite knowledge was a nice direction considering the aforementioned to be a genius and becoming a pseudo-god himself was never a detriment considering his condition. By the way, it was awkward to see Darkseid smiling for all its worth!

I immensely enjoyed the earlier television animated series of “Batman”, “Justice League” and the “Justice League Unlimited”. It has heart, a smart story and a wonderful creator as Bruce Timm again leads the way to bring in this exciting take of the animated film considering its length to be adequately shorter than the previous projects. The story gives light to how melancholic all their stories transpired and evolved, seeing how they lost so many things from friends, a home world, a parent’s love, a husband and family! Nevertheless, they still have to fight for what is right and make the world safe once more even if it means to use force if necessary! I get the idea on how the title works and it may be Gods and Monsters but it does not mean that they can’t be vindicated given their actions, to change and still embrace their destiny as heroes!