Fond Memories of a Sheikh

Fond Memories of A Sheikh

He might not have been a royal elder in Arabian tribes and cultures, but Farooq Sheikh in the sense of his world was definitely veteran acting royalty. 

A face and champion of Indian Independent Cinema. 

Sheikh recently passed away, due to a heart attack in Dubai at the age of 65 on the 28th of December 2013. 

A man who truly alongside countless others of course, too Hindi cinema by storm during its mainstream lull (the 80's) and gave meaning to the 'act' in actor. 

Most people wont know him, he wasn't your run of the mill superstar rather he was that coal among fake shining gems, who worked himself hard and turned into a bright Diamond. Shining, flawless and unbeatable in whatever it is he did. 

Farroq Sheikh will be really missed on my side. So lets take a trip through (my) memory lane to celebrate...

The Actor, The Legend and The Sheikh

Tintin's Top Ten: Bollywood Movies to Watch out for in 2014

TinTin's Top Ten

Bollywood Movies to Watch out for in 2014

I really liked doing last years top ten feature on the best of Bollywood in 2012. So I decided to expand this so called feature this year with different grouping relating to both the best, the worst and the most anticipated.

2013 is the 100th year of Bollywood, its been a good year but couldn't really live to the expectations that the movies of 2012 had generated. Lets hope that 2014 knocks it out of the park as the beginner for the next century of Hindi cinema. So on that note, here are my ten anticipated films for next year. 

100 years of Hindi Cinema, 100 best Modern Bollywood Performances

 

100 Years of Bollywood

100 Best Modern Performances

So this one's a lazy blog post...I felt like just putting out the Top 100 Bollywood performances of modern times (2000-2012) over here...this is just a list, if I do ever analyze any of these roles then I will make a link here. So for now its just a list, even then I would compel you to check out these films just because of these performances. 

It was hard to get 100 out of this list but I tried so if you find that I might have missed something out feel free to comment. Remember this list is just from 2000-2012 performances. 

Reel Reviews: Hobbit size Analysis

Magneto's Movies

Reel Reviews

So I'm feeling a bit lazy, so I've decided that I will just do short reviews for both of the Hobbit films that have released. 

So why am I reviewing the first Hobbit film?

Well the first Hobbit film was the first film that reviewed on my blog, of course I had reviewed films previously. In fact I watch a lot of films and critically analyze them in my head (I wish I could switch that off), for some special films like adaptations of lovable things (The Hobbit and Peter Jackson's LOTR trilogy) I may end up reviewing in a biased or sold by hype frame. Plus I cannot seem to easily put my thoughts into words. Not to mention that I've gotten slightly better at doing that in the past year.

These big factors influenced me to try review the Hobbit Unexpected Journey after I re-watched it. Obviously I've also been exposed to a lot of criticism for the movie ever since its release, as such some influences of that might seep in. Take this re-review with a grain of salt, but even then it's definitely not a 9/10 like I said last time

So onwards we go...

100 years, 100 Movies: My favorite Bollywood films Part 1

100 Years, 100 Movies: My Favorite Bollywood Films

Part 1

With Bollywood completing its 100 years of cinema this year, I thought my blog should celebrate this milestone achievement of the second most popular cinematic industry in the world (it might even be the most popular in some cases). Of course I celebrate this as my 100th post on the first year anniversary of my blog.

So with that I decided to write up a post on my favorite Hindi films numbering to of course a hundred. Before I do that though let me lay out a few ground rules;

1) The selection process for my favorite 100 was very difficult, I may not have gotten it perfectly right for myself but still this is the 100 I ended up with. In this case I also decided not to fully rank these hundred. Meaning while they will be numbered 100-1, the films are not in ranking order and are just grouped randomly as such.

2) These are my favorite 100 films, not anybody else. This means that the selections are of my opinion and in no way should deter or disgust anyone else. These are also not the 'Best' 100 films in Bollywood, I haven't watched every Bollywood film to rank the best. While I  adore the likes of Guru Dutt's 'Pyaasa' and 'Kaggaz ke Phool', they list on best films but I don't enjoy them that much.

3) I haven't included films from the year 2013 as it is still in progress. At the end of the year the films from 2013 will have their own feature, still they will not be updated to this list. 

Once again fair warning, these films are not ranked in any order from least to most favorite or vice versa. These films are just numbered 100-1 for the sake of it. But they are my 100 favorite films.  Enjoy!

Reel Reviews: Thor-The Dark World

Magneto's Movies

Reel Reviews

 

Movie: Thor-The Dark World

 

Release Date: 8th November 2013

Director: Alan Taylor

Cast: Chris Hemsworth as Thor Odinson, Natalie Portman as Jane Foster, Tom Hiddleston as Loki, Christopher Eccleston as Malekith, Adewale Akinnuoye Agbaje as Algrim the Strong/Kurse,  Kat Dennings as Darcy Lewis, Stellan Skarsgard as Eric Selvig, Idris Elba as Heimdall, Ray Stevenson as Volstagg, Tadanobu Asano as Hogun, Zachary Levi as Fandral, Jamie Alexander as Sif, Clive Russell as Tyr, Alice Krige as Eir, Rene Russo as Frigga, Chris Evans as Captain America with Benicio Del Toro as The Collector and Anthony Hopkins as Odin

Genre: Comic Book

Score: 7.6/10

Pros:-An out and out hilarious second act weaved in with great dramatic development and action, the third act has a uniquely odd climatic fight scene

          -The writers utilize the Marvel brand of comedy to terrific effect         

          -Dialogue tries its best not to feed information to the audience when need be

          -Loki's redemption character arc is played out terrifically, the ambiguous twist at the end just makes It that much better

          -Alan Taylor brings a certain amount of his flavor to the film, he directs it with interesting and thoughtful visual aesthetic

          -Most of the performances are great, however Tom Hiddleston is head and shoulders above the rest

          -The VFX is stunning, the costume and set design's blend well with the VFX aspects of the film

Cons:-The first act takes a while to get going

           -The film has a by the numbers plot, with certain plot points and characters just dropped due to this it isn't particularly memorable

           -Character writing in the film seems sloppy, where Thor begins with some depth he ends up just being the bland hero with no character arc. Jane has same traits, but for most of it is a damsel in distress . Malekith is a bland villain, he isn't explored enough.  

           -While the comedy is great, the film is tonally all over the place 

           -Even though it has that gritty Taylor vibe, eventually the film feels like a factory made production. Alan Taylor doesn't seem to have been allowed a clear artistic vision of his own

 

Best Scene: The extended sequence on Svartalfheim, Thor and Loki pull a fast one on the villains and audience but fail. Eventually a massive fight ensues with Loki redeeming himself by 'sacrificing' himself for Thor.  

Best Performance: Tom Hiddleston as Loki

Best Dialogue: "You must be truly desperate to come to me for help. What makes you think you can trust me?"-Loki
"I don't. Mother did. You should know that when we fought each other in the past, I did so with a glimmer of hope that my brother was still in there somewhere. That hope no longer exists to protect you. You betray me, and I will kill you."-Thor

Coolest Comic Book Reference:The Aether along with the Tesseract is revealed to be an Infinity Stone. In the comics there are the Infinity Gems, which when placed on the Infinity Gauntlet gives the wielder unlimited power. This is the object Thanos (big purple guy) seeks.

Reel Reviews: Thor

Magneto's Movies

Reel Reviews

The release of Thor: The Dark World means that its time to review the first film in the Thor franchise, Directed by Kenneth Branagh; Thor was probably the most riskiest property that Marvel Studios brought out on its road to The Avengers. The film however went onto become a blockbuster, and made stars out of talented actors Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston. 

Movie: Thor

 

Release Date: 6th May 2011

Director: Kenneth Branagh

Cast: Chris Hemsworth as Thor Odinson, Natalie Portman as Jane Foster, Tom Hiddleston as Loki, Kat Dennings as Darcy Lewis, Stellan Skarsgard as Eric Selvig, Colm Feore as Laufey, Idris Elba as Heimdall, Ray Stevenson as Volstagg, Tadanobu Asano as Hogun, Joshua Dallas as Fandral, Jamie Alexander as Sif, Rene Russo as Frigga, Clark Gregg as Agent Coulson, Maximiliano Hernandez as Agent Sitwell, Dakota Goyo as Young Thor, Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton/Hawkeye with Samuel L Jackson as Nick Fury and Anthony Hopkins as Odin

Genre: Comic Book

Score: 7.5/10

Pros:-The scripts fish out of water type comedy is hilarious and makes the slow first and second acts entertaining

          -Loki's descent to villainy is written good

          -Branagh brings a terrific Shakespearean flare to his work, it sits perfectly alongside the comic book elements as well as the Norse Mythology

          -The multiple references to the universe, cohesively ties the film well

          -All round the performances are spectacular, Hemsworth handles himself well as a lead where as Hiddleston is a revelation far outshining his more accomplished co-stars

          -The visualized concept of Asgard, Jotunheim and characters is great

Cons:-The film follows some base tropes for an origin hero, just the situation is tad different

           -Thor humility character arc is developed too fast, where as his romance with Jane and the two actors chemistry is non existent

           -Supporting fan favorite comic book characters aren't developed enough and are generically wasted

           -The action sequences apart from Thor's hammer aren't really special, the final fight is a bit off a disappointment

Best Scene: When Loki finds about his true parentage, his confrontation with Odin is spectacular. Hiddleston brings his A game against a talented thespian like Hopkins, and far outshines him. 

Best Performance: Tom Hiddleston as Loki

Best Dialogue: "Loki, this is madness?"-Thor

"Is it madness? Is it? IS IT? I don't know what happened on Earth to make you so soft! Don't tell me it was that woman?... Oh, it was. Well maybe, when we're done here, I'll pay her a visit myself"-Loki

Coolest Comic Book Reference: Thor is given the alias of Doctor Donald Blake when he is one Earth, in the comics when he is banished to Earth Thor adopts the identity of Donald Blake. 

Marvel Cinematic Universe: The Masters of Evil Part 1

MCU

Golden Rogues

Masters of Evil AKA B-list villains who make a good team to face B-List heroes

It seems like the past few weeks have had a villainous impact on me. 

With DC comics New 52 going through their villains month phase and Iron Man 3 releasing on dvd reminding fans the destruction of the Mandarin as a formidable force (although I have gotten over it, but we'll talk about that later), not to mention Oliver vowing not to kill anyone and in turn building his own Rogues gallery (Arrow Season 2). I have also gotten fixated with the darker side, and in turn beginning to build the rogues galleries for my own created superheroes in my Heroverse (ya I know, lame name). 

All this coupled together with the unofficial release of Avengers: Age of Ultron teaser, reminded me that I never really lived up to the promise of an article regarding the robotic menace that is Ultron. 

While we were teased with Thanos (purple gorilla) at the end of Avengers, it seemed Whedon pulled a swerve and added Ultron to threaten our favorite heroes in their second outing as a team. 

At first I was confused, but it makes sense after all. Thanos is nigh powerful and a major threat to not just the Avengers but the whole Marvel Universe, he should be kept at the back for a trilogy finale in Avengers 3 (hopefully though not a franchise last). 

Ultron on the other hand makes sense because of the sequel look. Most comic book movie franchises have always had their second installment as the best and sometimes most personal, it also most of the time includes the arch nemesis of the hero. 

Lets look at some modern day examples; Spider-Man 2 had Dr. Octopus, yes most people would claim that the Green Goblin is Spider-Man's true nemesis but they couldn't be anywhere far from the truth. 

Dr. Octopus is an image of who Peter Parker could have become had he not learned his lesson of responsibility early in his youth, he would have grown up to be as spiteful of the world as Otto Octavius even prior to the accident that made him Doc Ock. Not to forget that in the past few years Goblin has eclipsed Spider-Man and has become an Avengers villain (including one time leader) in his own right. Also there's the thing about Octopus taking over Peter's body in current continuity. 

Back to topic...another example would be The Dark Knight, it brought Batman in the film to his knees and only because he was up against his most hated foe; The Joker. 

All in all, the superhero sequel is one that includes the heroes greatest villain, biggest mistakes and most emotionally tormenting time. 

This for a team of heroes like the Avengers clearly spells as Ultron. 

Now onto a bit off Ultron...

Man of Steel: Kingdom Come Review

Man of Steel

Kingdom Come Review

While I understand that Man of Steel month is over, I couldn't help but giving Superman another go. Prior to my Man of Steel review I promised a look at where to start with reading Superman comics like I did with Iron Man.  

Unfortunately, once I sat down to put this list together, I realized that my Superman knowledge was limited and that complimented my own article regarding my non existent interest in the big blue boy scout. 

Then I got a chance to grab a bunch of Superman books, Man of Steel's release jogged a new ambition in me and now I hold seven special books on the first superhero in the world. 

These are the seven books, by the end of the year I will hopefully have reviewed all of them

So I've been on a kind of Superman binge this past month, any time I can catch break from work I pull out one of these bad boys and start reading. 

As you may have noticed my review format has changed. I'm tired of doing the formulaic method, instead I insist on just reviewing the book in a free style method. Its much more fun. 

Also from now on my reviews will reflect the format of the book I have; such as my Kingdom Come is a trade paperback edition, though you can get it in hardcover and Absolute editions. This is because, I've stopped reading comics from a illegally downloaded digital format (its the reason I actually stopped my weekly reviews), so as to save me from a guilty concious. 

Now onto the review...

My 5 Minute Cinematic Experience in the Theater

My 5 minute cinematic experience in the theater

As I sit here writing to you, it has been a couple of minutes since I reached home to vent my fury out on this blog. My boiling rage is targeted at the general public, what now I truly believe as the not so smart film-goer. 

For those people it seems cinema is a way to have some dumb fun with the family or friends. 

Yes, yes I know films are supposed to be for the entertainment of the crowd. But cinema itself was created as an art form, it is meant to be for a Director and his team as a painting is for a painter, especially for those with true creative vision. 

Just cause a few movies don't include crass jokes, spoon feeding amounts of exposition or high profile 'actors' (in quotes for obvious reasons...they can't fucking act!).

Ok so back to the point; I went today to watch a relatively low key Bollywood film by the name of Prague. Don't bother searching for showtimes in your areas, your bound not to find them easily.

Prague a true indie film in Bollywood may not have got overtly great reviews, but it did get some good recognition this past week. Unfortunately box office numbers would say otherwise, and thats where my experience comes in.

Prague would have been great to watch. Especially with it starring one of the most under-appreciated young actors working today; Chandan Roy Sanyal (D-Day, Kaminey)


I set out to watch the film close to a nearby theater, as I reached the ticket counter I was informed that the showtime had been cancelled and I was the first in three days to come watch this film. That angered me to ungodly proportions. I get that the movies showing is a business, and if a film doesn't run it needs to be removed.

But shouldn't it be fair, that any film be given a chance to survive through the weekend? After all it was a small film with only one showtime through the day. That means in a weekend there would be only three shows, and as far as I'm concerned in three shows one customer is better than none. In the end it seems from the timings I read, there was not other show set to replace Prague through the weekend. So clearly this theatre doesn't seem to want my money.

Maybe I'm looking at this from a selfish perspective, maybe this huge rant isn't justified but I still want to write (not that you have to read it).

All I know is that today I wasted 5 minutes and 80 rupees of my life just to catch a glimpse of what could have been a great intellectual cinematic experience.

What I feel sad for is the makers who decided to go ahead and distribute something as different as Prague knowing that they might not make their money back, what I feel sad for is the people who worked in making this film because they potentially lost at least four-five customers more that could appreciate their hard work.

Instead all those mindless fucking Indians can go watch the misogynist piece of crap that is Grand Masti (currently earning money that it isn't even worthy of).

Truly in some smaller way I have just seen a part of a smaller but greater class of Indian cinema die. I might be a bit bias, Prague might not be that great; but as I said it still deserved a chance to be seen.


Aneesh Raikundalia  

Justice will Prevail

Justice Will Prevail

 

 

For those not in the know, yesterday a devastating attack occurred at the premier Kenyan shopping mall Westgate by the terrorist forces known as the Al-Shabaab. As of yet it is day two in a stand off between Kenyan forces and a part of this terrorist organization at the mall, in the crossfire till now there are multiple innocents stuck. 

There is no knowing how many they are or how hurt they are, some could also be unfortunately dead. 

By yesterday many innocent shoppers have either found their way out or been rescued, some have succumbed to their wounds others still battle for life in countless hospitals around the city.

To those suffering, to those hurting and to those victims of this cowardly attack, I say; I am not a godly man, but I pray for you today in hopes that if there is a god may you get well and may you prove to these spineless people (who sought to destroy our great nation by this heinous crime) that the spirit of humanity and the spirit of our beautiful nation remains intact. 

To those who we call our leaders, no matter who you are or what position you work in; it is to you our country looks for strength and hope in such crises. It will be you who will help rebuild this nation to a better position than it ever was after this destruction.

To those lined up hour after hour in hopes to help give blood to our fellow man, I say; Thank You. You prove that above all humanity prevails, your bravery and kindness shows the unity this country is bound by. 

To those fighting the evil outside Westgate.  We cheer you on, we know that those passed away cannot be brought back, but your fighting will at least save those that can be brought back. 

To those whose families are safe, cherish these moments but don't forget the one's we lost. As a country we are a family, don't forget the ones passed away are not just nameless faces but also they were Fathers, Mothers, Brothers, Sisters, Daughters and Sons.

And finally to the attackers, I weep for you. I weep for you, knowing of your closed mindedness against accepting those of a different cast, race or religion because it doesn't matter. After all we are all human. I know one thing, your crimes will never be washed away. You will fall and Justice will prevail. 

Once again may god bless those in trouble. Kenya stand strong, stand unified, stand proud, we will not lose this fight. 

Aneesh Raikundalia 

Writing Comics: Playing With Others Toys

Writing Comics

Playing with others toys

 

Sorry for a late post, my net has been iffy at best and even now it isn't top notch. I still have a post pending on Grant Morrison's beautiful Batman run that ended quite a while ago. This seems appropriate with the latest news hitting us that Ben Affleck will be our new Batman, another post on that also in the works. 

Anyways onto this post.

As an aspiring comic book writer its fun to come up with my own ideas for both lengthy graphic novels and monthly series. I already have a major plan revolving around my own type of Marvel/DC superhero universe called the Hero-Verse (I know, I know).

However for some few months now it seems I am interested in playing with the preverbal second hand toys. What this means is, I'm getting focused on writing about existing characters such as Batman and etc.

It might be the over abundance of reading comics or constantly watching Batman: TAS and Superman: TAS, but the fact is writing characters from the big two has started becoming appealing.

Some ideas have been streaming through my head for these character particularly and ironically those from the DC side of things. These ideas are  strictly formed as out of continuity for the characters, so as it can be easier for me to write. Most importantly though, most of these stories form up as lengthy graphic novels rather than long runs or one-shot issues. Although there is one idea for a long running series but still out of continuity.

The characters/stories I have been thinking about include;

The Specter (In a novel called The Specter: Last Vengeance)

Jor-El( El of Krypton)

Batman/Bane (Batman: Bane's Reckoning, which I have already started writing)

Batman/Mr. Freeze (Batman: The Long Winter)

Batman: Tales of the Asylum (A lengthy series detailing the life among the Arkham inmates)

Dr. Fate (No title yet, just want to write the character)

Justice Society of America (Really want to write these characters)

Hopefully in the near future, you may see some of these ideas bear fruit. It would be great to know that I can leave a stamp (even if it's a bad one) on some of my favorite characters.

These are just some characters I wish to write now, I can see that getting my own characters out of the ground will be difficult.

I myself seem to aspire too high and think it will be to establish my own ideas, there's nothing wrong with that. But to accomplish such a thing, playing with other creators isn't necessary but it can help a lot.

Just my own thoughts.

'Nuff Said

Aneesh Raikundalia

 

Breaking Bad: Better Call Saul...Cause He Deserves A Spinoff

Breaking Bad

Better Call Saul

First of all this will be a relatively short post.

Now onto the post, unlike many a viewers (such as you BB faithfuls) I haven't been quick in my following of what could become one of the greatest TV shows; Breaking Bad.

At this point I am half way through Season 3, in hopes to catch up to the finale that takes place this Fall TV season. 

So with that out, this news might be old.

Show creator Vince Gilligan has hinted and now confirmed that they are fast tracking a spin-off on the eccentric and morally wrong attorney that is Saul Goodman. 

This spin-off better be good!

Now I understand TV spinoffs don't have a healthy track record (who remembers Joey?), but still if you're a regular watcher (or in my case catch upper) or a die hard fan of the show than you know there's no one better to call up (see what I did there) for a spinoff than Saul Goodman.

And here's why...

Don't worry I won't give any lengthy lecture-type reasons

a) Cause its Saul Goodman

Forget Jesse and forget Walter, Saul is actually the most interesting/fun character on the show to watch. 

Now I understand, such characters like Saul are fun in spades but when you give them a spin-off something bad happens (I will once again refer you to Joey). 

Still I believe Saul can handle his own show and this is why...

b) Better Call Saul

If you haven't checked out the minisodes yet I suggest you do, the Better Call Saul shorts on the Season 3 extras are a riot to watch.

These accompanied by his job as a criminal lawyer for gangsters and crooks within the Breaking Bad universe, could cause on fusion of the thrills provided by the Breaking Bad in a twisted comedic sit-com starring the character. 

But the comedy in such a situation has only held weight because of one man...

c) Bob Odenkirk

Odenkirk who portrays Saul has been by far one of the most funniest men in modern television history. His regular appearances on HIMYM's latter seasons has made dull episodes bearable. His work plus writing in Tim and Eric's Awesome Show is damn hilarious. 

More so his performance as Saul has that right touch of wickedness and eccentricity among splendid comic timing. 

So I would suggest to whatever network handling the spin-off (if it isn't AMC), you

Better Call Saul

and...cause I know you most likely will...

...S'all good, man!

Aneesh Raikundalia 

Top Secret: Sketch-Motion

Top Secret

Sketch Motion

 

Welcome to the second edition of Top Secret

This post relates to my College project regarding stop-motion animation

First, What's Stop-Motion?

This is animation using photography, a certain object is taken photographs of after being moved slightly between frames thus creating the illusion of movement whence viewed all together. 

It can be done using any objects or live with yourself, any action can be done as long as there is only slight movements between frames.

My project ran for 1 week, discounting mine and my friends previous failed attempt, check out our Stop-Motion process below...

Magneto's Movies: Movie Mania

Magneto's Movies

Movie Mania

Short Reviews

Welcome to another edition of movie mania, here I will post a few short reviews of movies I have had the chance of watching or re-watching in the past few months or so. Since a long time has gone into some of these reviews they might be inconsistent, the score also applies from full reviews where I have considered story, directing etc. and then calculated the overall. Enjoy!
 

Reel Reviews: The Wolverine (2013)

Magneto's Movies

Reel Reviews

 

I re reviewed this film after watching the ten minute longer and r-rated extended cut. The cut is much more worth it especially for its extras including a special alternate ending that introduces the Wolverine costume to the film franchise

Movie: The Wolverine

Release Date:

Director: James Mangold

Cast: Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine, Hiroyuki Sanada as Shingen Yashida, Tao Okamoto as Mariko Yashida, Rila Fukushima as Yukio, Will Yun Lee as Kenuichio Harada, Haruhiko Yamanouchi as Ichiro Yashida, Brian Tee as Noburo Mori, Svetlana Kodchenkova as  Dr. Green/Viper, Famke Janssen as Jean Grey/White Phoenix with Patrick Stewart as Professor Xavier and Ian McKellen as Magneto

Genre: Comicbook

Score: 8.1/10 re-reviewed score

Pros:-A splendid first two acts which while utilize similar CBM tones really have a different style and deeper elements to it

        -Explores a very interesting angle regarding Logan's character not seen in his prior films

        -Character development for the female supporting characters is unique and they aren't stereotypical or characters closely similar to each other

        -There are some memorable dialogues that explore inner characteristic demons for Logan and ones that are bad-ass coming from him

        -Direction and cinematography is stunning, it helps shine on the brilliant Japanese culture and aesthetic

        -The VFX is much better than any other X-Film

        -It really understands the base elements of its source and character, especially Wolverine as a Ronin

Cons:-The third act mostly the climatic battle is a bit generic superhero fare 

         -The villains are a bit underdeveloped and the film uses recent shock value style for a less impact-full main villain 

         -The Silver Samurai VFX is shoddy

         -Run-time for the film is a bit overlong

Best Scene: The bullet train fight is swiftly edited and savage

Best Performance: Hugh Jackman as Logan/Wolverine and Svetlana Kodchenkova as Dr. Green/Viper

Best Dialogue: "What kind of monster are you?!"-Shingen Yashida

                         "I'm The Wolverine"-Wolverine 

Coolest Comic Book Reference: Once Wolverine tells Jean he has more to live for, Jean walks away all alone into a white light and then you realize she has been in the White Hot Room.

Mild Spoilers Below!

SDCC: Tin-tin's Top Ten Movie Announcements

San-Diego Comic Con

 

Tin-tin's Top Ten Movie Announcements

It was a big moment for every comic book geek this weekend with the annual San-Diego Comic Con taking center stage. The convention may have dilute it's Comic book roots, but theirs no denying fans have been enamored by the unveiling of the latest Geek movies on the horizon. 

There's a certain mouth watering aspect brought about by announcements on certain movies and footage shown for others. I wish to go to SDCC one day but till then I can be satisfied with the current news on everything movie and everything geek.

This Comic Con may just live up to be huge with some awesome announcements regarding some upcoming projects.

See what was in the top ten...

Pacific Rim: Pure Spectacle!!!...and a FUCK You to Adam Sandler

Pacific Rim

No Review...

Just Fun and One Big FUCK YOU!!!

 

Seriously this looks so awesome, and it is!

 This past Friday saw the release of one of the most hotly anticipated blockbuster movies of the Summer that *Gasp!* actually had an original story not tied down by any source material. This Friday also saw the release of another LAZY comedy by Adam Sandler and his Happy Madison production house.

And guess what?!

Fucking Grow Up already!!!

Adam Sandler's latest comedy Grown Ups 2 (did we need a sequel to the horrendous 1st film) beat out the very slick and stylish Pacific Rim by a whopping 4 Million Dollars. Now that might not be much when in terms of how much movies usually end up earning, but Pacific Rim hit third spot on the box office with only 38 Million and could well go on to fail at the box office considering its 200+ Million budget.

Okay so globally however Pacific Rim made a 53 Million collection, but even then it's a steep climb for this thoroughly entertaining film. Which brings me to this decision...

Tintin's Top Thirty: Game of Thrones S03 Moments

Tintin's Top Ten Thirty

Game of Thrones Season 3 Moments

 

Since it's the third season of the seminal fantasy series Game of Thrones, I thought ten wasn't enough, instead why not countdown the top thirty moments of the Season.

Okay, so I know the season ended quite a while back but you can still enjoy the memories of what has been an entertaining but bit inconsistent journey through Westeros and the other Kingdoms for the third time round. There were a lot of moments to cherish, and here they are; 

Snap! Crackle! Pop Culture!: Man of Steel Edition

Snap! Crackle! Pop Culture!

Man of Steel Edition

Here's this times edition, since it's...

Man of Steel: The Father/Son Dynamic

Man of Steel

The Father/Son Dynamic

First of all, I would like to note that today's post is dedicated to the greatest guy I know in this world; My Dad. I understand that a blog is a sort of online diary, but I wont lay my self bare here, instead all I will say is that truly I am lucky and proud to have my dad support me in each step of my life. I love my dad and this post (yes I know it sounds cheap) is a way of saying how. 

Onto my post...

Reel Reviews: Man of Steel

Magneto's Movies

Reel Reviews

Movie: Man of Steel

Release Date: June 14th 2013

Director: Zack Snyder

Cast: Henry Cavill as Clark Kent/Kal-El/Superman, Amy Adams as Lois Lane, Michael Shannon as General Zod, Diane Lane as Martha Kent, Laurence Fishburne as Perry White, Antje Traue as Faora, Ayelet Zurer as Lara Lor-Van, Christopher Meloni as Colonel Hardy, Harry Lennix as General Swanwick, Richard Schiff as Doctor Emil Hamilton, Dylan Sprayberry as Clark Kent (age 13), Cooper Timberline as Clark Kent (age 9) with Kevin Costner as Jonathan Kent and Russell Crowe as Jor-El

Genre: Comic Book

Score: 8.7/10 (without VFX: 8.7/10)

Pros: -Splendid acting including some interesting surprises from unknown cast members

         -A Superman film with the kind of action fan boys dream of

         -Realistic implications and threats with unknown civilians/soldiers actually dying on camera

         -Mind Blowing visual effects and use of 3D

         -Develops a modern origin for Superman and establishes Clark Kent

         -Respects its source material, including even Smallville TV Show

         -Lots of fun Easter eggs that don't burden the film

Cons: -Henry Cavill as the titular lead is actually the weak link among performances

          -A bit too much of heavy violence, not a Superman movie for children

          -Underdeveloped supporting characters

          -The Narrative flow is a bit shaky in the start
          -Superman does not kill!

Best Scene: Jonathan Kent (Kevin Costner) reveals to Clark (Dylan Sprayberry) his origins and gives him a choice to be what he needs/wants or must be. An emotional moment that dissects the most important relationship in the Superman comics.

Best Performance: Russell Crowe as Jor-El

Best Dialogue: "You will give the people an ideal to strive towards. They will race behind you, they will stumble, they will fall. But in time, they will join you in the sun. In time, you will help them accomplish wonders"-Jor-El, straight out of Grant Morrison's All-Star Superman. All-Star Superman is one of the most acclaimed comics on the Man of Steel.

Coolest Comic Book Reference: Watch out for the sattelite that Zod and Superman destroy during their big fight, the satellite belongs to a certain Mr. Bruce Wayne of Wayne Industries.

Mild Spoilers Below!

Man of Steel: Movie Marathon with Michael Shannon

Movie Marathon

...With Michael Shannon

 

 

Whenever I wasn't taxed by hard work or too much studying I had peaceful times of entertainment for myself. Whether it be alone or with family, on TV, DVD or from Torrents (yes, I have been to the dark side), I would take the time to watch at most 3 movies on relaxing days. 

This was fun to do, as it kicked in my reviewing mind and allowed me to process some real gems I would find playing on TV, or in my Uncles DVD collection or mostly from the seedy (see what I did there) underbelly of Torrent piracy.

Enough of guilty confessions...Onto what I like to call a Movie Marathon, recently I got the time to take a break and I decided to finally watch some movies for a change (from everything else). 

Keeping in mind with the tagline of;

 

Man of Steel: Not A Big Fan Of The S Man

Not A Big Fan of The S Man

There's still 8 days left to the most hotly anticipated movie of the year, and I'm practically losing my mind!!!

Man of Steel looks so freaking awesome, don't believe me?! Then check this;

Right! I cannot believe how I excited I am for this movie. If Dark Knight began the peak of comic book movies then Man of Steel could forever change the sub-genre.

Man of Steel if it gains the critical acclaim and commercial success could become the movie that not only defines Superman and CBM's, but also makes any other comic book movie redundant (let's face it Comic Book Movies are a phase like Cheesy Action Blockbusters). 

With the possible slow burning extinction of Superhero movies, why am I still excited? 

I've never been a...Superman fan!!!

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Thor The Dark World

Marvel Cinematic Universe

Assembling Thor: The Dark World

 

As my blog has hit more than 3000 views, I continue onwards from my most viewed post with a prediction (not a full original idea/script) on what Thor: The Dark World will entail. Here is a Synopsis released by Marvel Studios for the movie;

Set one year after The Avengers, Thor battles to save all the Nine Realms from a mysterious enemy older than the universe itself. A primeval race led by Malekith, who is out for revenge, intends to plunge the universe into darkness. Confronted by an enemy that even Odin and Asgard cannot overcome, Thor must reunite with Jane Foster and set out on a dangerous journey that will force him to make the ultimate sacrifice.

With the release of Iron Man 3, MCU's Phase 2 has been underway and we also got to see a trailer for the second installment in the Thor franchise;

 

Snap! Crackle! Pop Culture!: Arrested Development Edition

Snap! Crackle! Pop Culture!

Arrested Development Edition

Today Netflix releases a full fourth season of cult comedy show; Arrested Development. Across the past two weeks I have been busy...watching this show from Season1-3. I had heard so much about it but never got the chance until I finally decided to take the chance and have since become enamored with the freaking insane Bluth Family and their mad antics. 

So what better way to give ode to the now released 15 episode 4th season, than by giving them a SCPC post of their own. Enjoy!

My Memes

Fair warning some of these aren't really memes, and there are too many I just couldn't resist putting.

Just Enjoy, More memes next (since I have no artwork today)...

GTCB: Course Completed!

Gender Through Comic Books

Course Completed!

As I'm sure some of you are aware (you're not!), I had joined an Massive Open Online Course for the study of Gender Through Comics. After six weeks of enjoying reading, drawing and learning about comics I also got an insightful perspective of Gender and everything that encompasses it such as stereotypes, roles and how gender is portrayed in comics.

I'm not here to talk in length about the course, all I wanted for this page was to say...

...Thank You!

Thank You Ms Christy Blanch for teaching us (me and my fellow students) this amazing course, Thank You to Ball State University for allowing Ms Blanch to go through with this endeavor and of course Thank You to my peers for doing this course with me and in the process creating a community (of sorts). Of course also a special mention/Thank You to my sister; Dibeshree Raikundalia, for helping me pursue this course by affording to buy the necessary texts required. 

This course has given me a greater knowledge of how to write characters and a nice insight into the minds of some of the greatest writers in comics today, so Thank You to them for taking their time to teach us as well.

And now here's a look at the dazzling certificate students were awarded at the completion of the six week studies;

Not to forget Thank You to Peter Krause for this splendidly drawn cetificate! :)

'Nuff Said

Aneesh Raikundalia