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Wonder Woman

Zack Snyder’s Justice League: Reborn Film Finally Does Justice to the Franchise

September 7, 2021 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

You could forgive me if I doubted.

After years of hearing about the mythological ‘Snyder Cut’, there was simply no way that this film could meet expectations. After all, the original film was such a tepid piece of fodder that there was simply no way that a few tweaks or additional scenes could self-correct a franchise that had fallen so far off the rails. Now, with a refreshed budget and a new home on HBOMax and Blu-ray, Zack Snyder’s Justice League has finally arrived. 

And I admit that I was stunned by the results.

The details of the Snyder Cut’s resurgence has been well-documented. Determined not to copy Marvel’s roadmap to success, DC chartered their own path that rushed the process. By the time that The Avengers came around, standalone films had charted a path that allowed audiences to connect with the characters before they attempted to work together. Falling behind in the box office, the release of Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice gave DC the chance to try and regain some traction in the pop culture world. In their attempt to speed up the process, they threw their characters into films without any proper introductions. Whether they were attempting to ‘catch up’ to Marvel or simply afraid of being accused of ‘copying’ Disney’s juggernaut franchise, the result was a middling mess of confusion that left no time to create something special. 

After Joss Whedon’s cut of the Justice League failed to catch on with audiences, WB may have thought they were free of the franchise with a chance to reboot things once again. However, they underestimated their fans. After an unprecedented fan campaign that lasted three years and a hashtag (#ReleaseTheSnyderCut) that simply wouldn’t die, WB found themselves portrayed as the villains of a fiendish plot to suppress a director’s vision. Even so, they held firm to their comment that any other version for the film simply did not exist.

All that changed with the creation of HBOMax. Even if Snyder had been able to complete the film initially, there’s simply no way that the WB would have allowed a four-hour cut to be released in theatres, especially for a franchise that had been viewed as flailing. Although, with the move to streaming, Snyder suddenly had the opportunity to lean in to his longer take on the film. All of a sudden, he had the time (and freedom) to tell the story his way. Given more space in the world of digital media, Snyder’s League feels less like a theatrical release and more like the first chapter of a mega mini-series event. At a time when binge-watching has taken over the ‘theatrical experience’, Zack Snyder’s Justice League leans into our current obsession with long-form storytelling, complete with ‘chapters’ marking breaks within the film. 

Most importantly though, what about the quality of the film itself? 

The truth is that it’s good. Very, very good. 

Shockingly good, really.

In the new cut, Zack Snyder’s Justice League picks up immediately following the events of Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice. After Superman’s (Henry Cavill) death, the world is left with a need for heroes. As such, Batman (Ben Affleck) and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) begin building a team of super-humans who will stand together against an ancient evil that is preparing to return and exact revenge on humanity. 

Although I have never considered myself a ‘Snyder-apologist’, one can’t help but recognize the quality of his epic saga. The ‘director’s cut’ is far from a new concept in our culture. Even so, the extent of these re-edits usually amounts to a few additional scenes or some updated special effects. In the case of the new League, Snyder offers an almost entirely different story with new subplots and expanded character beats.

In fact, it’s not an exaggeration to suggest that it improves on the original theatrical cut in virtually every way.

While Whedon’s original film attempted to ‘lighten’ the tone with more quips and less exposition, that vision never truly fit with the world that Snyder had already created. Marked by rushed character arcs that never satisfy and a bland villain, the original film rarely works. Nevertheless, with the move to HBOMax, Snyder’s version has the proper time to explore the stories of new characters without betraying the larger superhero story. Though this saga would obviously have benefited from prior stand-alone films, Snyder’s League does its very best to compensate by giving meaningful backstories to its new additions, especially Ray Fisher’s Cyborg. Once a side character with little relevance, Cyborg has suddenly become the film’s emotional core with an arc that has a significant impact on the outcome of the story.

In addition, the most notable change comes through a more fully realized villain in Steppenwolf. Whereas Whedon trimmed the brute’s story down to almost nothing, Snyder’s new footage offers a meaningful role to the character. Instead of a standard ‘big bad’ who’s forgettable (at best), the new League highlights his motivation and relationship to the larger impending force of nature in Darkseid. As a result, not only does Steppenwolf become more interesting to the viewer but his actions simply make more sense. (What’s more, new special effects give the character a much more menacing look, a factor that was lacking in the original cut.) 

Of course, it’s also important to know that the film ends on an enormous cliff-hanger. Originally conceived to be the first of three films, League operates in grand strokes but never fully concludes. (For the record, Snyder has currently stated he has no intention of returning to the world.)

What’s more, despite its overall quality, this League will not likely win any new converts from those who struggle to connect with Snyder’s vision. Although it goes without saying that this a vastly improved version of the film, all the Snyder-isms that will cause derision remain front and centre. Off-putting to some for his showmanship, there’s little question that his visual polish drives his work. Featuring a litany of stylized effects, slow-motion action and dark, gritty story-telling, League is Snyder is at his free-wheeling best yet he will still likely alienate viewers who are looking for something more along the lines of Marvel’s lighter, more humorous tone.

However, these vast differences are all very intentional. Whereas Marvel has taken a much more scientific or ‘human-centred’ approach to their content, Snyder’s vision for the DC Universe has always included viewing these heroes as modern gods. Though Marvel seems to create heroes on par with mankind, Snyder views characters like Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman as super beings who have been sent as examples to inspire humanity to greatness. (One need not look further than the giant monument to Superman to see that this is true.) There’s a deep admiration for his characters within Snyder’s work that hints at the spiritual longings of a culture looking for heroes. As such, his vision for the League meets every superhuman act with a grand crescendo. Bursts of electricity, clangs of metal and a bombastic soundtrack give the film an epic scale that highlights his vision. To Snyder, the DC Universe is an example of our modern mythology and, as such, he is unapologetic in his reverence for the material.

With the release of his ambitious superhero opus, Snyder truly does come out as the winner here. With grandiose storytelling and vastly improved character arcs, Zack Snyder’s Justice League shows what the director can do when given the time (and money) to bring his vision to life. As a result, this reborn League certainly feels like the unexpectedly epic conclusion that this chapter of the DCEU (and Snyder himself) needed.

That is, until #RestoreTheSnyderVerse takes effect.

Zack Snyder’s Justice League is available to stream on HBOMax and on Blu-ray. The special feature included is “Road to Justice League” as Snyder reflects on the three DC films he made for Warner Bros.

Filed Under: Featured, Film, HBO Max, Premieres, Reviews, Television, VOD Tagged With: Amy Adams, Ben Affleck, Ciarin Hinds, DC, DCEU, Ezra Miller, Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill, J.K. Simmons, Jared Leto, Jason Mamoa, Jesse Eisenberg, Ray Fisher, ReleaseTheSnyderCut, superheroes, Superman, Wonder Woman, Zack Snyder, Zack Snyder's Justice League

Wonder Woman 1984: Be Careful What You Wish For

March 30, 2021 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

What’s your greatest wish?

Whether it’s world peace, romance or even just ‘more wishes’, everyone has something that they would ask for if given the chance. But what are you willing to sacrifice to get it? 

This is the primary question behind Wonder Woman 1984 (or WW84), the follow-up to Patty Jenkin’s 2017 blockbuster that revived a flagging DC cinematic universe. Once again directed and co-written by Jenkins, WW84 is bombastic blast of colour that never loses the character moments that gives this franchise its heart. While it isn’t as ground-breaking as its predecessor, WW84 is still a thoroughly enjoyable follow-up that continues the journey of the Amazonian princess and solidifies her as one of the great cinematic superheroes of the modern age.

Set amidst the vibrant and sleek 1980s, Wonder Woman 1984 finds Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) keeping a low profile amongst the mortals that she loves so dearly. Working as a museum curator, she only steps into the heroic limelight if she can do so without public acclaim. However, when an ancient artifact with magical abilities draws the attention of the smarmy businessman Maxwell Lord (Pedro Pascal), Diana must not only face off against a growing evil but her own battle with temptation as well.

Though this is a film that truly does deserve the big screen treatment, it is significant that WW84 followed through with its 2020 release date, even if it must be on demand instead of its planned theatrical rollout. (Honestly, who could’ve expected that this would be the only superhero epic that we got to see this year?) With its bright colours, infectious energy and positive messages, it’s fair to say that this may be the blockbuster that we have been waiting for in 2020. (No offense, Tenet.) While one would be hard pressed to say that this film were gritty or self-reflective in any way (again, read: Nolan, Christopher), WW84 still proves poignant as it emphasizes the importance of living in the truth of the moment as opposed to clinging to false dreams or ‘what-if’ scenarios.

For her second time leading the franchise, Jenkins’ work in WW84 continues to impress. As only her third feature (!!), she understands the sort of character development required to engage the audience without losing the impact of the action sequences. Given the setting, this is a film that leans heavily into nostalgia, even in its set pieces. (In fact, even an early fight scene in the mall feels like a campy throwback to the very earliest of superhero films like Superman: The Movie) Keeping the tone light throughout the film, Jenkins allows the fun to shine brightly yet still manages to give the drama some real emotional stakes. (Heck, she even manages to bring back the deceased Steve Trevor in a way that feels justified within the film.)

With every turn as the character, Gadot grows more confident and comfortable in the role of Diana Prince. What’s more, her onscreen chemistry with co-star Chris Pine continues to ground their characters, as they support and challenge one another in various moments. (In fact, in an interesting twist, WW84 actually flips the dynamic between the two characters from the first film, with Pine’s Trevor as the somewhat naïve soul learning from the more confident and self-aware Diana.) However, the real surprise of the film is Wiig who clearly relishes the opportunity to take on the role of villain. Known for her comedic work, Wiig’s performance feels familiar at the film’s outset as the awkward and self-conscious Barbara Minerva. However, as the film progresses, Wiig truly settles into the role, imbuing Barbara with a dark ambition that makes her a suitable foil for Gadot’s Diana.

Whereas the film’s ‘period setting’ admittedly felt gimmicky when details of the sequel were first announced, it’s extremely appropriate for the film. Set at the height of the ‘Me Generation’, WW84 makes good use of the psychology of self-improvement and selfishness that defined the 80s. Drenching the film in golden colours throughout much of the film, Jenkins leans into this notion of self-indulgence by creating a visual world of luxury that would make King Midas jealous. At a time of financial excess and an obsession with the ‘image’, this was an era that sought to teach us that who we were was never enough and to always reach for more. (“Life is good, but it could be better,” Lord repeats.) 

However, without giving away any spoilers, it’s worth noting that WW84 recognizes the damage of this greediness and its effect on others. For every wish that’s fulfilled, there comes a cost to be paid by the person who makes the request. The more one leans into their own selfishness, the greater the impact on those around them. As such, the film calls for global humility in order to survive and serves as a reminder that self-sacrifice is required by all in order to heal the world. (Again, a much-needed commentary during the current pandemic.)

Fun and enthusiastic, Wonder Woman 1984 sparkles with joy. Rather than use the sequel to create a ‘darker’ entry into the franchise, Jenkins continues to allows heart, love and reason to win the day. In essence, WW84 is a film about finding contentment in the moment despite our circumstances and working together to build a brighter future.

And, in 2020, what more could you want?

“Wonder Woman 1984” 4K UHD Combo Pack and Blu-ray includes special features “The Making of Wonder Woman 1984: Expanding the Wonder,” “Gal & Kristen: Friends Forever” and “Gal & Krissy Having Fun” about its two stars; “Small But Mighty,” two scene studies, “Meet the Amazons,” the “Black Gold” commercial; a gag reel; and the WW1984 retro remix.

Filed Under: Featured, Film, HBO Max, Reviews Tagged With: Cheetah, Chris Pine, DC, DCEU, Gal Gadot, Kristen Wiig, Patty Jenkins, Pedro Pascal, Steve Trevor, Wonder Woman, Wonder Woman 1984, WW84

7.15 Restoring the Universe in ZACK SNYDER’S JUSTICE LEAGUE

March 28, 2021 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

After Joss Whedon’s Justice League failed to catch on with audiences, those committed to seeing Zack Snyder’s original vision brought to completion began the most extensive fan campaign that Hollywood has ever seen. Featuring hashtags, billboards and even renting a plane, #ReleaseTheSnyderCut seemed like a passionate but empty pursuit. However, after four years and an additional $100M, Warner Bros. has finally released the Snyder Cut onto HBOMax. Clocking in at over four hours long, Zack Snyder’s Justice League has new effects, new characters and a more fully-developed script… but does that truly make it any better? This week, Victor Stiff (host of YouTube’s Dope Black Movies) and Dave Voigt (podcaster and founder of InTheSeats.ca) stop by to debate the value of the Snyderverse, the nature of heroism and the differences between Marvel and DC.

You can stream the episode on podomatic, Alexa (via Stitcher), Spotify or Amazon Podcasts! Or, you can download the ep on Apple Podcasts!

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

7.15 Zack Snyder’s Justice LeagueDownload

Filed Under: Featured, Film, HBO Max, Podcast Tagged With: Batman, Ben Affleck, DC, DCEU, Ezra Miller, Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill, Jason Mamoa, Justice League, Ray Fisher, Superman, Wonder Woman, Zack Snyder, Zack Snyder's Justice League

5.15 The Power of SHAZAM!

April 28, 2019 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

As an orphan, 14-year old Billy Batson struggles to connect with foster families as he bounces from home to home, searching for his mother. When he suddenly receives the limitless power of Shazam, he finds a new calling as a superhero… but can a broken teenager handle this sort of responsibility? What makes him worthy of the challenge? This week, Derek Wong and Mira Ibrahim join us to talk about what sets Billy apart, the dangers of deadly sins and the meaning of power.

You can also stream the episode above on podomatic, Alexa (via Stitcher), Spotify or Soundcloud! Or, you can download the ep on Apple Podcasts or Google Play!

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

5.15 Shazam!Download

Thanks Derek and Mira for joining us!

Filed Under: Film, Podcast, Reviews Tagged With: Aquaman, Avengers Endgame, Batman, Billy Batson, DCEU, Dr. Sivana, Mark Strong, shazam, superhero, Superman, Wonder Woman, Zachary Levi

4.06 a JUSTICE LEAGUE of our own

November 26, 2017 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

http://screenfish.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/4.06-Justice-League.mp3

Grab your batarang and 5-pronged trident, because, in this episode, ScreenFish Radio wraps the lasso of truth around JUSTICE LEAGUE, the culminating film of DC cinematic universe. Back from his vacation, Steve is joined by super friends Arnaldo Reyes and Pastor James Harleman (Cinemagogue) to decide if the film leaps tall buildings in a single bound… or falls face first in the kryptonite.

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

4.06 Justice League

A very special thanks to Arnaldo and James for joining us!

Filed Under: Film, Podcast Tagged With: Aquaman, Batman, Ben Affleck, Cyborg, DC, DC Comics, DCEU, Ezra Miller, Gal Gadot, Henry Cavill, Jason Momoa, Justice League, Steppenwolf, Superman, The Flash, Warner Bros., WB, Wonder Woman

Justice League: Finding Hope in the Darkness

November 17, 2017 by Arnaldo Reyes 25 Comments

Justice League is one of the most anticipated movies of the year, but not because you get a DC team-up film. The anticipation comes because most people were wondering, “Will they finally get these characters right?” That, of course, was the big question going in–so much so that Rotten Tomatoes delayed their Tomatometer for the film because they claimed they wanted to debut a new show and get more in-depth. In reality, they received heat from the studios, complaining that they were ruining the box office numbers (umm, bad films do that–not a Tomatometer). The DCEU has only one good film in its four-film roster, and that one came out earlier this year. They hitched their wagon to Zach Snyder to create this universe; the problem has been that Snyder wanted to make it in his own vision and that doesn’t always work with established characters.

So, with all that said, is Justice League a good film? Well, it’s not bad, but it isn’t great. It is a generically okay film that is hurt by its short run time and average plot. Everything felt rushed and incomplete, so it was hard to actually believe that the team came together so flawlessly. Outside of an argument over an unethical (it really was if you think of it) decision, there was no real tension of strangers who are flawed coming together. However, when the film took its time to slow down (I will assume those were the Whedon reshoots), it gave us a glimpse of what a fleshed out story could give us. Action-wise, it’s nothing new we haven’t seen from Snyder. I do have some problems with the CGI and some other things that will be discussed in a future spoiler-filled podcast.

Ben Affleck is probably on his way out of playing Batman, but I will say that he is a good Bruce Wayne and an above average Batman. He moves slow for the Dark Knight, but then again, he’s portraying a much older and seasoned character, so that could be the reason. What he nails a little is the strategist Batman who is a reluctant leader. Even with a team, he thinks about himself as a solo act, all the while pushing team members to discover themselves.

Gal Gadot is the showstopper once again. Her Wonder Woman is most definitely a beacon of light. She’s the first character in the DCEU that was nailed perfectly first time through. In this film we see her grow as a heroine and see how great she really is. There is one complaint I have…but I won’t spoil it here.

Ezra Miller is the bright humor that the DCEU has been lacking. Besides the flaws in CGI (when they slow down, his running looks very abnormal at times) Flash was well done. If you grew up watching Justice League the Animated Series, Miller personifies this version of Flash.

Jason Mamoa as Aquaman was just meh. In an attempt to make Aquaman look cool and badass, he surprisingly came out very flat. I really didn’t think he meshed well and when he was off-screen, I didn’t miss him.

Ray Fisher as Victor Stone/Cyborg was an interesting character. He and Flash were my two favorites (besides WW, of course), only because they showed the most growth. Even though mostly cybernetic, the human element in him shined and he grew to be the hero of the story.

Ciaran Hinds, as Steppenwolf, was your generic bad guy. Like almost all of Marvel’s villains, he is forgettable. We’ve actually seen him and his story arc before…in Guardians of the Galaxy baddy Ronan the Accuser. They are literally the same character bent on doing the same thing, albeit for different reasons.

As I said above, when Justice League slowed down and gave us meaningful moments, the theme of the film shined: basically, just get over it! It’s a bit harsh to say it like that, but it is a hard truth. We can’t avoid hurt and pain and loss in this world and in our lives. However, we can’t let those things control our present and future. In the midst of all the darkness, we have to search for that glimmer of light, grab it, and let our strength be renewed. Hope isn’t found in a person. It is an ever flowing river that can guide us to be better, do better, and love better. Love and Hope snuffs out darkness, and in the world we live in, Justice League does get that right.

Justice League is definitely better than the 40% rating the Tomatometer shows. I give it a 6/10. It could and should be epic, but it falls short in time, story, and villain but makes up for it in message and some of the characters.

Filed Under: Film, Reviews Tagged With: Aquaman, Batman, Cyborg, DC Comics, DCEU, Flash, Justice League, Superman, Wonder Woman

Wonder Woman: 2017’s Best Film?

September 19, 2017 by Jacob Sahms 2 Comments

Wonder Woman is the film that we need. In fact, in the midst of a depressed box office (good films are harder and harder to find), Wonder Woman stands out as my favorite film of the year with only three months left to go.

Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) is raised by her mother, Queen of the Amazons Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen), in the cloaked, royal confines of Themyscira (or Paradise Island). Taught to fight by her aunt and the general of the Amazonian forces, General Antiope (Robin Wright), Diana longs to do battle in the ways her legendary mother did. Lured by the legends of the Greek gods, Diana wants to be a warrior, even while her mother tries to protect her from the “world of men” that exists outside. With these childhood stories, Diana learns about the long-ago defeat of the God of War, Ares, and the ancient battle between the gods that founded the Amazons as defenders of the world of men.

When Captain Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) crashes his plane in the waters of Paradise Island, Diana and the Amazons are drawn into the events of World War I as it is drawing toward a peaceful armistice. But in Europe, General Ludendorff (Danny Huston) and his henchwoman, Doctor Poison (Elena Anaya), are developing a poison that would swing the force of the war back into Germany’s favor. Dreading that Diana’s involvement in the affairs of men would attract the attention of Ares who she assumes is involved, Hippolyta forbids Diana from leaving; certain that her training has prepared her for a moment such as this, Diana leaves Themyscira, headed for London and beyond.

Directed by Patty Jenkins with cinematography by Matthew Jensen, the film is lavishly shot – in Italy for the first third of the film taking place on Themyscira and in London’s King’s Cross Station and Trafalgar Square for various scenes in the second and third segments. Painted beautifully in bright colors on Themyscira, the drab grays and greens of London and the battlefield stand in even harsher contrast to the peace the Amazons maintain. These visuals only serve to reinforce the Diana-in-the-world-of-men experience: she’s as much a fish out of water as Captain America post-deep freeze in the present.

By comparison, this is DC’s best superhero film in nearly a decade, with Batman Begins as its most recent DC counterpart, because Wonder Woman is the best superhero film, the best origin story, that DC has told since then. But Captain America: The First Avenger is its closest counterpart because of the tones in which WW and CA paint their heroes as stalwarts of virtue and principle in a world threatening to implode due to violence and hubris.

Into this world rides the naive Diana, bent on fulfilling her people’s obligation to defend the world of men, and Trevor, deeply affected by the evil and violence he has seen as a spy. Together, apparently at first as an aside, Jenkins moves them in closer and closer concentric circles as their love and admiration for each other grows, even as they develop a romance that crosses cultural categories. In the main frame, Trevor recruits the diverse ‘crew’ of Sameer (Said Taghmaoui), Charlie (Ewen Bremner), and Chief (Eugene Brave Rock), to assist Diana in her quest to track down the heart of World War I. [She’s sure that Ares is masquerading as a man, namely Ludendorff.]

Together, this “crack” team of misfits and warriors will stand against the German war machine. It’s incredibly telling in its perspective of mission, justice, peace, and virtue – in a way that too many superhero films have gone away from. Rather than ‘muddying up’ Diana’s virtue, her principles become inspirational – and powerful – because she is true to who she is. In that way, Wonder Woman is the first superhero movie film that truly inspires, because Diana/Wonder Woman is the hero of old, and probably the one that we need. She’s the embodiment of “good” and the bridge between gods and the world of men. It’s what makes Wonder Woman a must-see film, with power and responsibility to inspire.

Wonder Woman is an epic film, building mythos and theology, full of spirit and heart, with lessons for today about heroism, sacrifice, belief, and responsibility. Finally, DC has delivered its first win in a decade, while pushing a woman to the front of the pantheon and crowning her queen.

****For more …. read below the break… but be aware SPOILERS ENSUE!****

Wonder Woman presents a Greek mythology, tinted by the Judeo-Christian worldview. While she grows up believing she is an “Adam,” shaped by Hippolyta out of clay, she is in fact incarnational – god among people. In that twist, from ‘old school’ comics to New 52 stuff, Diana’s purpose, responsibility, and connection to the divine/greater universe, broadens with that knowledge, instantaneously. In the process, she’s wrestling with Trevor, a man who wants to know he can be redeemed but who wonders if he’s lied, killed, and stolen his way into judgment. Diana becomes the physical embodiment of grace – because of who she is and because of what she does.

The innate goodness Diana possesses – leaving the island because it’s her duty to concern herself with the lives of men, tackling a trench worth of German snipers to save a village, refusing to bow to the presence and lures of Ares – permeates and inspires Trevor in his final mission. But his love, sacrifice, and desire for redemption proves the love that ultimately serves as the thesis for the film. The two of them ultimately end up believing in each other. In the final articulated argument between Ares and Diana, Diana “chooses love,” believing in the innate goodness of people to choose justice and sacrifice, when she is tempted to use her powers to obliterate men for their inclination to war.

The gods’ argument over the souls of man proves to be a conversation about TULIP and creation in the image of God discussion worthy of contemporary-ish theologians Johns Calvin and Wesley. Is man truly evil, destined by the fall to be fully corrupted? Or is man created good and perfect in the image of God the father, corrupted by original sin, and waiting to be redeemed? Ares wants one to be true, while Diana believes the other; her belief stems from her experience of one such man, Steve Trevor, who proves both saved and savior in his own way.

While Ares is “Satan” to Zeus’ Father God, proposing that people are twisted and evil, Diana comes as the Christ figure who is willing to set aside her place at the god table in Themyscira and serve the very humans who should worship her. By her example, she proves worthy to be worshipped – in the praise of those below the church steeple after she disarms the sniper in the village and again at the end, as the soldiers from both sides praise her – and one even takes a knee.

On the Blu-ray Combo Pack, Warner Bros.’ special features include the extra scene, “Epilogue – Etta’s Mission,” commentary by director Patty Jenkins, extended scenes, and a blooper reel.  The mission to take Wonder Woman back to the screen, the big screen for the first time, gets a look in “Crafting the Wonder” while Jenkins also shows her view of the material in the series of featurettes on Themyscira, the battle between the Amazons and the Nazis on the beach, and more.  There’s also a look at the Amazon army in “Warriors of Wonder Woman” and the stature of Diana next to Superman and Batman in “The Trinity.” There’s also a celebration of the decades of Wonder Woman’s character through the eyes of notable public figures in “Finding the Wonder Woman Within.”

Filed Under: Current Events, Editorial, Featured, Film, Reviews Tagged With: Batman Begins, Chris Pine, DC, Gal Gadot, Hippolyta, Paradise Island, Steve Trevor, Themyscira, Wonder Woman

Justice League Trailer – Who is Alfred Talking To?

July 24, 2017 by Arnaldo Reyes 2 Comments

On the heels of another Comic-Con come and gone, one of the biggest trailers revealed was the trailer for Justice League. Hoping to keep the momentum of Wonder Woman, the trailer showed a ton of action and, of course, our first look at the villain, Steppenwolf. Still, truth be told, all the action made it look like everything they’ve released before and yet another road down Batman v Superman (with an added humor of the Flash).

The first thing worth noting is thehope that Wonder Woman will continue to be front and center and not cast off to the side among the boys club. With the addition of Joss Whedon to finish the film, hopefully his touch of strong female characters will shines through in this film.

However, as I watched the trailer again, I couldn’t help but start pondering as to who Alfred is talking to at the end. The obvious person is the much anticipated return of Superman. It’s no secret that he plays a pivotal role in the last arc of the film.  But, if that’s the case, why hint in a secretive way? Does Whedon think we haven’t figured out that Superman will be in it, or maybe it is someone else?

Here’s my theory:

The secret character is Green Lantern (which one we won’t find out till then) and the reason to keep him secret is simple, they messed up with him the first time around. The question you may ask is why do I think it is?

  1. Whedon made sure to include the Lanterns in the narration of Steppenwolf. “No Lanterns, no Kryptonian” I don’t believe it is a simple easter egg to promote the Lantern Corps movie they will be working on. This was done with a purpose.
  2. One of the biggest mistakes Snyder did with BvS is that he failed to make Batman the great detective that we know he is. His lack of knowledge on Clark and Krypton (in the comics, Batman would have figured that out on his own) leads us to believe that it doesn’t make sense that Batman would know that Superman would come back. Now he could have done some work, but the fact that the only other dead Kryptonian they had as evidence needed to be resurrected into some monster would leave us to believe that there is nothing in what Lex discovered about Kryptonians (Batman’s source to kryptonite) would have yielded him the information to know that Superman wasn’t dead.
  3. We know that Batman discovered and did is research on the upcoming threat from Darkseid and Apokolips. In that research, it is safe to assume that he came across information about the Lanterns as strong opponents to Darkseid’s forces. In that research, he may have also discovered of a recent dead alien and kept in a government research facility with a lantern symbol. Through this, he could find a way to send a message to Oa and alert the Lanterns of the danger coming to Earth.
  4. Lastly, the early promotions for Justice League was “Unite the Seven” and we only see five in the trailer. We know Superman is for sure number six….so who’s number seven? The obvious choice is a Lantern.

Obviously, this is just a theory, but it is one to make you think. Hopefully, the reveal remains hidden until the actual film comes out.

Here’s the trailer again, give it a look and let us know if you agree, disagree or what theories you may have?

Filed Under: Editorial, Film, News Tagged With: Aquaman, Batman, Cyborg, Flash, Green Lantern, Justice League, Superman, Wonder Woman

3.22 Celebrating WONDER WOMAN

June 11, 2017 by Steve Norton Leave a Comment

http://screenfish.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/3.22-Wonder-Woman.mp3

This week, Steve welcomes actor Amanda Jane Smith and pastor Judith McCartney to enter into the battle with Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman.  While the film has scored with both critics and fans, there seems to be something much more significant about this particular moment.  Is it true that Diana’s story provides a proper role model for young women?  Does the strength of her character really create something unique or is there a veiled sexism at the hands of the male gaze?  In a lively discussion, they dialogue about equality, feminine identity and the nature of evil.

Want to continue to conversation at home?  Click the link below to download ‘Fishing for More’ — some small group questions for you to bring to those in your area.

3.22 Wonder Woman

A special thanks to Amanda and Judith for joining us on the show!

Filed Under: Current Events, Film, Podcast Tagged With: Batman, Chris Pine, DCEU, empowerment, equality, equity, feminism, Gal Gadot, Patty Jenkins, superhero, superhero film, Superman, women, women's rights, Wonder Woman

Comic-Con International

July 21, 2016 by Arnaldo Reyes Leave a Comment

comic-con-2016It used to be that when you mentioned Comic-Con, it was only referencing San Diego. However, in the past decade, pop culture has evolved and, with so many “comic-con’s”, one has to be more specific.

Comic-Con International is THE Comic-Con.

There isn’t any that actually comes close to the massive convention that takes over San Diego, CA every year. As the gaming industry and Hollywood have jumped on board, the Con has developed and now focuses on more than just comics making it a behomoth of a convention. In fact, Comic-Con International has grown so large that the San Diego Convention Center can no longer contain it, spilling into the streets and nearby hotels in downtown San Diego (even the San Diego Public Library has panels this year!).

Since we all know how big it’s become, let’s get to what we can expect this year. Due to personal reasons, I can’t make it to the event this time (my nice Walking Dead press badge is sitting on my kitchen table), but I am more than happy to share what I know and what to expect each day.

Outside of Twitter and Facebook, you can follow live from Comic-Con from the likes of ScreenJunkies Central (YouTube), Marvel.com/sdcc2016, twitch.tv/skybound, and comic-conhq.com. Some will be comics related, others movies and shows, and some breaking news as they come.

Whether you are attending Comic-Con, or following from afar, here is what you can keep an eye out for this weekend when it comes to movies and TV.

Thursday:

luke-cageExpect news and chatter from CBS Tevlevision presentation early in the day. However, even with Dreamworks presenting on the first day, I expect most of the news and conversation will be from Netflix/Marvel Luke Cage series. That panel is near the end of the day, so expect news, descriptions of footage and how the series can stack up next to Daredevil and Jessica Jones.

Friday:

Marvel’s Agents of Shield will be on hand discussing what happened in Season 3 and also what to expect in Season 4 (perhaps a fiery skull faced motorcycle rider?)

As great as that news might be, the big guns of TV will take center stage on Friday as The Walking Dead and Game of Thrones will be the talk of Hall H.

Also, Friday evening is the world premiere of WB/DC Animated Batman: The Killing Joke that sees the return of Mark Hamill as The Joker, Kevin Conroy as Batman, and Tara Strong as Batgirl/Barbara Gordon. This title remains a very popular comic book that many fans have been clamoring for, and one of the few Joker origin stories that many refer back to. Batman: The Killing Joke will also have a one-time theatrical debut on Monday July 25 or, if you don’t have tickets, you can also wait until it comes out on digital or Blu-ray.

Saturday:

wwssAs the biggest day of the event. If you are in San Diego, this has to be the one day where you looked at the schedule and channeled your inner Luke Skywalker “NOOOOOOOOOO”. For TV shows, the day features: Once Upon a Time; Supergirl; Flash; Arrow; Vampire Diaries; Grimm; DC’s Legends of Tomorrow. That is one heck of a lineup all in Ballroom 20. So expect announcements and confirmations all throughout the day. One thing I’m looking out for with these, are the rumors true that Batwoman and Oracle will be debuting on season 2 of Supergirl? We shall see!

Well, the TV shows are just the appetizer. Saturday is the big Hall H day as well. Warner Bros. will start the day off with a monstrous 3 hour slot that includes Wonder Woman, Suicide Squad, Lego Batman, King Arthur and Kong: Skull Island. One film that’s surprisingly missing though is Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. One would think that bringing back the world of Harry Potter would be a no brainer, but the film does not appear on their schedule. Either way, Wonder Bros. is sure to have the talk of the day.

Star Trek, which had their premiere Wednesday evening, has the unfortunate task of following Warner Bros. After them, it’s a 30th anniversay panel of Aliens, and one of the most recent popular additions is Entertainment Weekly’s Women who Kick Ass.

strange-1However, the final big presentation of the day belongs to Marvel Studios. We are for certain that Dr. Strange and Guardians of the Galaxy 2 will be shown. Fans can also expect something from Thor: Ragnarok, as well as possible details on Black Panther film and of course, Spiderman: Homecoming. Marvel never dissappoints, so stay tuned Saturday night as I’m sure social media will be on a frenzy over what happened at the Marvel Studios presentation.

Sunday:

This is the “Get the last deals before you leave” day… but contrary to popular belief, there are still panels.

Hungover from his Marvel Studios Dr. Strange panel the night before, Benedict Cumberbatch will be on hand for Sherlock, followed by Supernatural. And well, actually, that’s it, so maybe Sunday is deals day!

Well, there you have it, what to expect this weekend. Follow ScreenFish on Facebook as we will try to share any breaking news we hear.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Current Events, Film, News, Television Tagged With: Arrow, Black Panther, Comic-Con, Comic-Con 2016, Dr. Strange, Marvel, San Diego, Supergirl, The Flash, Thor, Warner Bros., Wonder Woman

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