Green Lantern: DC Retrenchment or Revolution?

15 Jun

By Guest Author-Comic Relief

Because 3D CGI has returned as a subject of concern on LIH there was interest that one of the most CGI necessary movies since “Alice in Wonderland” be discussed.  If you like Comic book cinema, Blockbuster films, and enormous tent poll franchises in the making then you’ll probably want to consider this Bruce Campbell directed film.  Regarding the Thursday, June 16th, 2011 opening date, most American audiences are familiar with the film’s star Ryan Reynolds, yet most are not familiar with the character Green Lantern.  Yet the character’s name has been around as long as DC mainstays Batman and Superman.

Please watch trailer below.

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-GO9fo9DtM

I am attempting to tread lightly on the comic history for this article, yet that is extremely difficult given how significant the character is and how significantly it may impact future feature films production. As we have discussed both Green Lantern and Marvel comics (the other most prolific comic book cinema producing company) it’s good idea to understand what events actually influenced the current development of these films.

 When the character name Green Lantern was invented 1939, it belonged to Alan Scott1.  This character had a ring like the later expression of the character Hal Jordan, yet his ring had more of a magical origin.  Scott’s adventures were widely collected throughout the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s until a popular political shift nearly completely eliminated comics from American popular culture.

 German-American psychiatrist Fredric Wertham’s book “Seduction of the Innocent”2 claimed comics were a negative form of popular culture.  He claimed they provoked juvenile delinquency and determined to corrupt morals,  were laced with all forms of atheistic, deviant anti-American, and pseudo sexual content. His book was such a huge influence it all but brought the production of comic books to a complete halt.  If you’ve noticed a similarity between these events and those of Republican U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy’s red scares3 of the same period, you would not be wrong.  America in those days was so terrified of a Communist threat that anything with the slightest hint of controversial subject matter could set off a wave of censorship that could end careers and close businesses.  Other than the big three, (Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman) few comic’s characters survived this period, and comics from that period forth needed to carry the self-instated Comics Code Authority4  seal to be distributed in the United States.  In the politically conservative late 1980’s the music industry would eventually adopt a similar ratings system.  Yet in recent years, after that comics Armageddon, DC and Marvel would stop adhering to this form of content evaluation.

 In the sixties, when DC decided to resurrect many of the characters that it decided to force into hiding, the character Green Lantern was recreated as Hal Jordan5.  Yet this time as the feature film will detail, he was found by the Guardians of Oa and drafted in the intergalactic Green Lantern Corps.  Yet he was only one of many who received this “retcon” or retroactive continuity treatment.6  DC’s arch rival Marvel came into its own in the same period and in many ways we may see that war erupt for feature film audiences (even though Marvel is the current undisputed standard bearer). Including the current feature film explosion, a sub cultural product of the pulp fiction literary movement, comics would have many influences on American culture, but in no way would comic books ever be as popular as they were in the post-world war two period.

 Though some reviews have already been positive, is Green Lantern DC’s a retrenchment (similar to cultural down-sizing or the first step in a planned feature film revolution or renaissance).  Like anything else I believe it will depend on the quality of the movie.  But these are the other films including Green Lantern 2 that DC already has in the pipe line:

 The Flash: 

Like Green Lantern, the original Flash7 went into hiding as well.  He would return in the 1960’s and has had one of strongest publishing histories of anyone besides DC’s big three. The writing team:  Greg Berlanti. Michael Green, Marc Guggenheim, and Michael Goldenberg responsible for Green Lantern are also the one attached to this film.  Many believe Berlanti may direct.

 Hawkman:

Also resurrected from the forties, Hawkman8 found himself rebooted in a new book in the 1960’s.  Though not the best record in terms of retaining his series, one should remember that with many false starts and stops many consider Ironman, Thor, and Captain America second string characters at Marvel.  Producers Adrian Askarieh, Gregory Novack and production executive Will Hackner is best associated with this film and the character has a new comic book beginning in September.

 Aquaman:

Frequently the butt of jokes on TV shows like “Entourage”, Aquaman has had a pretty significant renaissance in recent comic books9.  Also receiving a new comic book, of the big three he’s the only “Super friend” who has neither had his own ongoing TV series or feature film. Sunrise Entertainment’s Alan Riche and Peter Riche were planning an Aquaman film yet Leonardo DiCaprio‘s Appian Way Production Company was the last company to be associated with the character.

 Of course the Justice League Movie may occur first instead of single films for these characters.

Please join us for a discussion Thursday: 6/16/2011@7pEST and 12UTC

1. http://dc.wikia.com/wiki/Alan_Scott_(New_Earth)

 2. http://www.panelology.info/Wertham1940s.html

 3. http://www.spartacus.schoolnet.co.uk/USAmccarthy.htm

 4. http://www.comicartville.com/comicscode.htm

 5. http://dc.wikia.com/wiki/Green_Lantern_(Hal_Jordan)

 6. http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/Retcon

 7. http://screenrant.com/batman-3-superman-reboot-flash-movie-updates-kofi-62182/

 8. http://splashpage.mtv.com/2011/06/01/hawkman-movie/

 9. http://robot6.comicbookresources.com/2011/03/geoff-johns-to-write-new-aquaman-series/

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135 Responses to “Green Lantern: DC Retrenchment or Revolution?”

  1. Littlebells June 15, 2011 at 6:25 PM #

    Why IS Aquaman the most picked on Super hero?

  2. Open Book June 15, 2011 at 7:16 PM #

    LOL! I know I was thinking the same thing LB!

    CR! Will have to explain that one.

    Have u seen this sketch?

    http://www.247comedy.com/blog/hawkman-the-movie-sketch-05-24-2011

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 10:59 AM #

      OB, THAT IS AWESOME!!! Oh my gosh! hahahahaha!!! 🙂 “Dickens!”, “Specialty metals!” “Clint Eastwood Voice!” LOL!!!

  3. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 11:00 AM #

    Hello?

  4. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 11:01 AM #

    Ok, apparently I can’t “reply” to your message directly OB. This is my fourth attempt to tell you what I think of that sketch:

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! Oh my gosh!!!! “Dickens!” “Specialty Metals!” “Clint Eastwood Voice!” HAHAHAHAHA! All the Super heros looked horrible and I loved SMs plastic hair!! LOL! 🙂

  5. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 11:03 AM #

    OB, that sketch is AWESOME!! If you see a ton of posts that repeat themselves, just deleter. I’m having a hard time with half my posts going through.

    SMs plastic hair was superb! LOL!!!! 🙂

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 11:25 AM #

      LB,

      I’m not really sure. Probably because he appears to be useless when he’s fighting on land with other super heroes.

      That hasn’t stopped DC from continuing to invest in him. Speaking of a joke, you should see the reviews for Green Lantern (Rotten tomatoes). So far they are absolutely terrible…..

      HAHAHAHAHAHA HAHA HAHAHA HAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!

      What a disaster. I’m trying to laugh with, not at. I have no idea what DC will do?

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 12:03 PM #

        OH my gosh, those are hilarious! Especially the funky bong comment. That is second hand embarrassing for the film and Ryan. Geeeeeeez, may DC should come over here and read for a bit. 🙂

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 12:48 PM #

          I guess anything would help…

  6. Francesa June 16, 2011 at 5:05 PM #

    Comic Relief you beat me to the bad reviews card on Green Lantern. Didn’t this movie cost some were in the range of $200m to make? Why? If CGI films are so considerably less expensive to make. I find it interesting that they seem to want to do the film versions of the “boy” superheros, but not the female. Why is that?? Never understood the allure of comic books, but with the history that comic relief has given us, it was obviously very taboo and I find that kind of fascinating. Will need to do some research and see if I can find a book to read about it. Will try to join the discussion tonight. On my way to Toronto. Ugh! Hopefully home soon or close to it anyway.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:02 PM #

      Francesa,

      Great, it is to speak to you again.

      So many questions and statements where should I start, well I will just dive in.

      But if you want somewhere to start, the Wertham and McCarthy references were really long and extremely informative. Some of the horror, detective, and romance comics of that period were extremely seedy. Much like many video games of today, so some could say they may have earned the distress they caused the general public.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:29 PM #

      Francesca,

      In terms of the equal time for Girl super hero’s topic that’s a tough nut to crack. In the last few months we started a petition here on LIH for Wonder Woman; but reluctantly boys/men tended to be the biggest signers. Girls/women were largely MIA.

      I tried to place petition prompts on Oprah’s site, Ms. Magazine Online, and some other sites. I guess until one of us has time to sit at a booth at a women’s convention this issue may not be finished or resolved by us.

  7. Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 5:38 PM #

    Hi Everyone!

    CR, Great Article. Do you think Leo’s company will give AquaMan a film? Love the Green Lantern trailer, I will be seeing it in theaters. Do you think that there was a power struggle going on between people like joseph mccarthy,frederic wertham and the general public? Do you think they were men with inflated egos that saw things that were not there? What gave them the right to say this is wrong/right for you and your children? Do you think today’s society is still as scared?

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:06 PM #

      I think Aquaman would be good if involved some modern day pirates or warship/submarines. Other than that, why the heck would Aquaman have a movie? There could be some amazing sea creatures used! What do you think CR?

      (Thanks for overlooking my stupid posts. They weren’t posting until much later and now I look ridiculous!)

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:16 PM #

        LB,

        Fantastic ideas, we should send Leo a note. I think addressing relevelant issues makes this fantasy subject matter all the more interesting to watch.

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:20 PM #

          Hey everyone,

          At LIH we’ve talked about this trend before; more film makers are using fantasy to remark about real world history. We’ll see more of this in the Transformers yet we already saw this in X-men: First Class.

          The only problem with this is this trend is it has a bit of an nihilist edge because frequently real world history is trivialized in favor fantasy plots and content.

          Did Green Lantern need to flirt with this comparison to be contemporary, or can directors (using comic book content) be comfortable to solely transfer comic content to the screen?

          • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:30 PM #

            Hi CR!

            Nice to see u. I see u already begun.

            I have quite a few Q’s for u about GL! Be prepared!! LOL!

            • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:32 PM #

              Oh crap. Let rip when your ready.

              • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:38 PM #

                No worries! I will go easy on u. LOL!

                • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:43 PM #

                  Thank you.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:13 PM #

      Paris,
      Hi.

      Concerning Mr. DiCaprio, I don’t know. I assume he will be working on Akira first, I heard that’s supposed to begin filming in August. He’s been associated with an Aquaman movie for a long time.

      Regarding Wertham and McCarthy, these zealots seem to come and go. It was Tipper Gore, Al Gore’s (of an Inconvenient Truth fame) former wife who led the censorship trials that enforced the ratings labels against music in the late eighties.

      I’ll try to get to the other statements soon…

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:41 PM #

        Paris,

        Again, I dont know but tenative reports about Aquaman suggested 2013 or 2014, or after the Justice League movie.

  8. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:27 PM #

    Hi Everyone-

    Welcome new and returning visitors. I hope u will join us for our discussion tonight @7pm. Please jump in if u have any Q.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:30 PM #

      Hi Open Book.

      • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:35 PM #

        Hi CR!

        My 1st. Q is why the need to over produce this film? I find when a film is over produced it’s a sign of a poor script.

        2nd. What’s with the Director was he not grilled by the fanboys during production?

  9. comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:38 PM #

    OB,

    first question:

    To be honest with you, I really do not believe that distinct or powerful production design equals bad movie. If that were the case The Wizard of Oz, Star Wars, Tim Burton’s Batman, or Christopher Nolan’s Batman’s Begins would have been stinkers; which they were not.

    I agree there has to be a balance. And that’s hard to tell that without seeing the movie. Trailers tell you little or nothing about the Directors vision.

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:43 PM #

      Well I remember last year the fans were all up in arms about how bad the trailer was. Then they went back and changed some things. It seems Marvel has a better relationship or process for developing and marketing their films IMO!

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:47 PM #

        That’s extremely hard to argue with.

        Branaugh (Thor’s Director) did amuch better job of handling the fan boys, (and if reviews can be taken seriously this may be true in other departments as well).

        • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:50 PM #

          I just saw on IMDB, that Quentin Tarantino was considered to direct. How do you think the film would have been different? Do you think it would have been better?

  10. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:44 PM #

    Hi everyone!!! 🙂

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:47 PM #

      Hi, Littlebells.

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:53 PM #

      Hi LB!

      Nice to see u.

  11. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:45 PM #

    CR, did you see the film? What was your overall opinion of the movie?

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:49 PM #

      No, I have not seen the movie yet I still want to see it.

      Actually a lot in the comic’s community are declaring their allegiance to the film anyway. I guess we’ll see if committed fans will beat casual fans in making this movie a hit or a flop.

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:51 PM #

        If you, OB, Paris, or anyone else I trust say I should see it, I will. Other than that, I’m skeptic. Especially now with the reviews.

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:01 PM #

          LB,

          You have a great sense of your own preferences. Make your own decision, but if this will help the Green Lantern corps is all cops; won’t Mr. Belles be interested???????

          I’m more likely to take the critics concerns seriously, but a lot of movies keep getting great reviews at theatres because they have packaged the same content as previous movies. X-men: First Class being the worst case of this trend.

          So I can’t always follow the critics….

          • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:15 PM #

            Mmm….I will have to check with Mr. Bells. 🙂 He enjoys super hero movies but definitely rolls his eye balls at stunts or destruction that no matter how sci-fi the movie is, would NEVER EVER happen. (See my loooong review on Super 8:) )

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:52 PM #

        As an aside…

        Though I have been far sterner about his in the past, critics have a lot of political considerations to respond to when writing a review.So knowing some of their motivations may be a key in understanding their decision.

  12. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:50 PM #

    I’ve never got into comic books. But I do like the passion and commitment of the comic book fans. I guess my big issue is how women are treated. I have discussed this before about my displeasure in how DC handled Wonder Woman. I find it ridiculous they spent all this money on Green Lantern and it sucks. No one really cared about this character like Wonder Woman. Am I right? O.k. my venting session is over.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:54 PM #

      IMHO, I don’t believe the jury is out until the audience has spoken. I don’t believe critics end the discussion.

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 6:56 PM #

        You are absolutely correct about Wonder Woman; hopefully we are not done with this struggle.

        • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:13 PM #

          Well your dedication to WW has really been nice to see.

          Just to let everyone know. CR has been campaigning for WW to get her own film sense early last year. He has also gone to many comic sites and the fanboys have come out in droves to support WW. I was shocked to see this given how much women complain about unequal treatment in HW.

          • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:21 PM #

            *cheers* Thanks CR! Count me in as a supporter (although I know you already do!)! If she gets a movie and it makes it to the big screen, I will find some part of a WW costume to wear to the theater!! LOL!! 🙂

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 6:56 PM #

      ITA with everything, especially your rant! 🙂

      • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:03 PM #

        Thanks LB! But don’t encourage me. LOL!

        • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:08 PM #

          Totally getting off topic, but do you think they are having a hard time with WW because they can’t think of a great story line? Or afraid women will think she’s too strong or too weak or not enough this or that?

  13. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:55 PM #

    I’m sorry! Hello Paris & Francesa. I got caught up in ranting to CR. LOL!

  14. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 6:58 PM #

    LB!

    I plan on seeing it early next week when I have a little time. I will let u know what I think if u want to wait…..

  15. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:02 PM #

    So according to my little sketch up above. Why is GL so highly respected by his peers? Where did he earn the right to sit at the table and be celebrated and not WW?

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:05 PM #

      I actually thought they were going to start poking fun at her as well. I was surprised when they didn’t, only because I REALLY want her to have a movie!!!!

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:09 PM #

      I did not tell them to make th Green Lantern movie first.
      You posted the skit, not me.

  16. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:03 PM #

    Thanks OB! Definitely.

    CR, I think this got lost in our mass posts, but I wanted to ask again:
    I just saw on IMDB, that Quentin Tarantino was considered to direct. How do you think the film would have been different? Do you think it would have been better?

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:13 PM #

      I have no idea but, I think Campbell should still be given a chance. I can say while I still have not seen the film.

      Campbell did a great job on the first James bond movie, Daniel Craig actually seemed happy about it…

      (That may be my last shameless plug)

  17. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:07 PM #

    QT Really? That would have been interesting.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:15 PM #

      OB,

      I’m having a hard time believing you’re actually taking up for the Deadline.comers….but then least you intend to see the film.

      • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:19 PM #

        LOL! Well I will reserve my judgment until after I see the film. But if it SUCKS look out. LOL!

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:50 PM #

          LOL.

  18. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:09 PM #

    Do you think there is a fine line with making super heros too campy as opposed to individuals with extraordinary powers?

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:16 PM #

      Well I will let CR handle this one. But I think the desire to have superheros submerged in real world events is a way of combating the campy factor. Would u agree CR?

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:16 PM #

      I’m not sure campy was a problem with this film.

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:24 PM #

        I think for me, I want to be able to think that someone like me has the possibilities of super powers. If it’s too campy, I can’t connect. And I didn’t mean GL specifically. I’ve just noticed some super heros are more tongue-in-cheek and others take it more seriously. I’m kind of confused like Francesa said in her post below.

        (I’m sorry I’ve been spelling your name wrong too! I apologize!!!!)

  19. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:12 PM #

    I’m reading on IMDB that there are a lot of complaints about the lack of character development. Some poster said Superman: The movie, Dark Knight, and X-Men are the best because of their character development. I think I have to agree. When I feel invested in a character and really know them, it makes their role of a super hero more real. I think what I’m trying to say is the purpose behind their super hero powers make sense and have a mission.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:28 PM #

      I’m read reviews that wsay the character development was fine.

      Though I will give the Supes and Bats movies their props,
      most of the character development from “X-men:First class” was from the previously movies.

      – Boohoo, no one likes this fake minority.
      – We were already grossed out by Mystique?
      – I’m not taking anything away from McAvoy or Fassbender, but the Charles/Eric bromance was explored in the earlier movies as well.

      It’s easy to get a movie right when the content was completely borrowed from the previous trilogy.

      Green lantern took a chnace on new territory and may have failed; I’m likely to give them a view because they had more guts for trying something new.

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:32 PM #

        I applaud GL for taking a chance as well. Hopefully if it doesn’t do well, they can get an idea of what can be done differently with future super hero films and incorporate that knowledge.

      • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:35 PM #

        I guess u are right. It was a gamble. They get a high five for trying.

  20. Francesa June 16, 2011 at 7:18 PM #

    Not that I have read a lot of comic books, but on a whole most superheros campy? I mean really superheros, superpowers, maybe I just don’t get it. I find that whole subculture of “fanboys” for “fangirls” for that matter, just like ob said very passionate.

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:27 PM #

      Hi Francesa-

      Do u like sci-fi? If so did anyone see Limitless? I really like the premise of this film and how Bradley Cooper became super human. It was an original screenplay as well.

      Here’s the trailer.

      • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:30 PM #

        I’m sorry let me correct myself this was an adaptation of the book “The Dark Fields.”

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:33 PM #

        I agree, Limitless was fantastic.

        • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:45 PM #

          Well I only brought up Limitless because it’s great if superheros were rooted in some bit of reality. I think the way Spiderman powers were explained was great. But everything went down hill when he put on that suit. It’s really hard to take anyone seriously in tights? For example what special material did he get to become bullet proof? LB’s hubby could easily take him out? On top of that. In the comic book I thought Peter Parker was suppose to be some wizz kid scientist? Anyway, I can rationalize GL suit more so than Spidermans. But I think the costumes really need to be explored more with all these superheros from DC and Marvel.

          • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:51 PM #

            hahahahaha!!!! I will have to tell Mr. Bells about that! Kevlar is not stretchy like that and I’m pretty sure Peter would have had to pay a good fortune for his unitard. (it’s not a costume, it’s a UNITARD!) haha!

          • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:55 PM #

            Speaking of real world tie-ins….

            How many of you thought or wished the green in Green Lantern, was a reference to sustainability or some form of environmentalism?

            Too bad Campbell did not figure out a way to tie that in. Actually DC has a green character Swamp thing that does a much better job of that.

            • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:57 PM #

              Swamp thing and the environment….that could be extremely interesting!

              • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:08 PM #

                the comics were great, the movies or tv show were not so hot. I’m sorry I remember this.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:32 PM #

      Hi Francesa,

      I don’t think there was much campy about Dark Knight or Heath Ledger’s performance,(and Francesa that’s not my opinion, that’s Oscar’s opinion).

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:34 PM #

        (and that’s why I absolutely loved this film so much. Mr. bells would not stop talking about how spectacular it was and how Heath was brilliant)

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:42 PM #

          I still wouldn’t encourage method acting, obviously it can be very dangerous….

          • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:53 PM #

            Yes, there definitely needs to be a balance between reality and fantasy.

      • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:39 PM #

        Ultimately, IMO what ever film genre it is (horror, romance, sci fi, etc.) has to set out it’s own quality standards and then try to hit it out of the park.

        I don’t know whether GL achieves this, it may not, I just think I’m likely to waste my money and give it a chance.

  21. Francesa June 16, 2011 at 7:41 PM #

    Yes i did see limitless, not so much for the story line, but for bradley cooper. But with that said i did really like the movie because maybe it is possible?? I did feel they could have explored the concept a little more. Also, I believe the same director did fight club and you could see some similarities between the 2. Both main characters giving narrative and find themselves in awkward situations with both having their persons under stress or maybe it could be considered duress? Both characters understand what is happening to them and both movies are satirical city with the same in regards to socioeconomic enviroments. I truly loved both movies.

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:43 PM #

      OMG, you like Sci Fi? I guess I misinterpretted your previous posts.

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:58 PM #

      I did not know the same director who did Fight Club did Limitless? That’s why I liked this film. O.k. I’m off to do some searching. Will be right back CR!

  22. Francesa June 16, 2011 at 7:42 PM #

    I did not realize it was an original screenplay. Wow what a concept for studios!

  23. Francesa June 16, 2011 at 7:43 PM #

    Am needed for work. will try to come back. Otherwise have a great night and will be back to read comments. Once again thanks

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:45 PM #

      Bye Francesa, hope to see you again soon.

    • Open Book June 16, 2011 at 7:48 PM #

      See u later Francesa!

      Take Care!

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:52 PM #

      By Francesa! 🙂

  24. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 7:54 PM #

    What’s the next super hero film to come out?

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 7:59 PM #

      This summer, Captain America, but of course that’s a Marvel production.

      July 22nd, 2011.

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:04 PM #

        Ok, duh, I keep seeing trailers for it! And Fight Club is one of my favorites. I will rent Limitless for sure now!!!!

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:05 PM #

          You probably will not regret it.

  25. Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:08 PM #

    Hi Everyone!

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:09 PM #

      Hi Paris.

  26. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 8:17 PM #

    Francesa-

    I have to agree with u the concept of Limitless needed to be explored more. ITA there were similarities between Fight Club and Limitless I had not thought about until u mentioned it. Now, unless IMDB is wrong which it may be LOL! According to them David Fincher did Fight Club and Neil Berger did Limitless. However, I would not doubt Berger was influenced by Fincher because I do see some similarities. Do u think it adds more weight to a superhero if they can justify scientifically their super powers?

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:25 PM #

      Since Francesa stepped out, I’ll say absolutely.

      Contrary to what it may sound like I used to love the X-men. But the idea that a person can suddenly be born with a fully functional set of wings (or control the weather) really tests my (or any one’s capacity to believe).

      I love when the scientific aspect of super heroes is fully flushed out. All the old pulp novels used to do that and the better silver age comics did that as well.
      In fact here’s a book on the subject.

      http://www.ebook3000.com/artbooks/The-Science-of-Superheroes_45984.html

    • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:27 PM #

      Contrary to what it may sound like I used to love the X-men. But the idea that a person can suddenly be born with a fully functional set of wings (or control the weather) really tests my or any one’s capacity to believe.

      I love when the scientific aspect of super heroes is fully flushed out. All the old pulp novels used to do that and the better silver age comics did that as well.
      In fact here’s a book on the subject.

      http://www.ebook3000.com/artbooks/The-Science-of-Superheroes_45984.html

  27. Open Book June 16, 2011 at 8:18 PM #

    Everyone-

    I have to run. But CR! Great article and great discussion.

    Take Care!

    Paris Sorry I missed U.

    Lurker I hope u are doing well.

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:22 PM #

      Bye OB!

  28. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:21 PM #

    Hey, sorry, I got involved in my 3 year olds thank you card for her babysitter. 🙂

    Hi Paris!

    • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:22 PM #

      Hi LB!

      Open Book, Sorry I missed you too. We’ll catch up sometime. 🙂

  29. Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:21 PM #

    How much reality should superheros be based in? I haven’t seen Limitless yet but I mean to. I think they should only be based in reality as long as there is some type of message to go along with it. Whether that message is moral/social/economical one is up to the writer.

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:25 PM #

      Yes, I agree Paris! I think when stories are set in reality, people start thinking more and taking the message and applying it to their own life. Not all, but I’m one of those people. I like finding messages even if there doesn’t appear to be one in the film.

      It also gets some really great discussions going!

      • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:28 PM #

        Not to get off topic with comics but I just saw Midnight in Paris. It had a great message and is an excellent film.

        • comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:29 PM #

          I tried to see that (missed the time)and hope I see it soon.

          • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:30 PM #

            Its an excellent film. Woody Allen did an excellent job. 🙂

            • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:31 PM #

              Grr! They still don’t have it in my parts!!! What message did you get?

              • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:33 PM #

                That you should be happy with what you have right now and not look to the past to solve your problems because the people in the past were not happy with their present. I hope that makes sense.

        • Open Book June 17, 2011 at 4:20 PM #

          Paris-

          I’m going to go seeMidnight in Paris again next week as soon as I get a chance. ITA this is an excellent film.

  30. comic relief June 16, 2011 at 8:31 PM #

    I have to go also. This was fun hope to speak to you all soon.

    • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:31 PM #

      bye CR!

      • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:32 PM #

        bye CR! Thanks for the info and answers. I hope you enjoy GL!

  31. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:31 PM #

    CR:,regarding your comments about Swamp thing: That is when you need a great script writer who can take a great comic and give it the movie characterization and story it needs to succeed. It can’t be campy and somewhat realistic. Swamp thing could have a story line similar to Peter Parker’s. He gets trapped in an environmental biohazard, changes, and uses his power to get the world to save the planet. yeah, it sounded better in my brain. 🙂

    • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:32 PM #

      🙂 It always sounds better in someone’s head but it could work. 🙂

  32. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:32 PM #

    How was your day, Paris?

    • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:35 PM #

      Great! how was yours? I meant to get up really early and get alot done but that didn’t happen so i’m making the best of the rest of my day. 🙂

  33. Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:38 PM #

    LB,

    I have to go for a few min. you can e-mail me if you like but i’ll try back here in a few.

    • Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:39 PM #

      No worries, I have to go make dinner! I’ll be in and out all evening. 🙂

  34. Littlebells June 16, 2011 at 8:38 PM #

    Oh good! Sometimes you just need a day to not get as much done as you’d like. 🙂 We’ve pretty much stayed inside but did manage to go swim for a bit. My little guy will be getting up soon, so I better start making dinner. I had a hilarious time in the chat thread talking to myself. haha!

    Have a great night!

    • Parisienne June 16, 2011 at 8:39 PM #

      you too.

  35. Francesa June 17, 2011 at 9:54 AM #

    Open Book i agree with cr with respects to adding more weight if super powers can be justified. I as well have a hard time believing one is “born with” powers etc. Maybe it goes back to “black and white” no grey area? If it cannot be explained, it therefore cannot be plausible.

    CR i do like some sci-fi movies. Am not a real horror movie fan. Today’s movies are just blood and guts, yuck. But give me Hitchcocks The Birds or the orginal Exorcist and I am all over it. I guess i really do not have one genre of movie that draws me or actor/actress for that matter. I usually see a trailer or read about a movie and decide to go see/rent it.

    • Open Book June 17, 2011 at 2:10 PM #

      Hi Francesa-

      Hitchcocks The Birds? We are going to be good friends.

  36. Open Book June 17, 2011 at 2:13 PM #

    CR-

    I saw GL is expected to beat out Thor and X-Men at the Box Office this weekend. What are the fanboys saying about the film given they are the main ones going to see it?

    • comic relief June 17, 2011 at 3:28 PM #

      OB,

      Their reviews are mixed on both ends of the scale.

      Many are Marvel fans and are either celebrating or wishing condolences. Many are DC fans and are either celebrating or pledging their allegiances. Many who are not committed to either side are determined not to let the genre disappear.

      They’re calling establishment critic’s stuffy, old, out-of-it, pathetic, politically compromised and they’re neither professionally capable of reviewing the work nor are they able to offer any productive notions about Hollywood’s future.

      • Open Book June 17, 2011 at 4:15 PM #

        Well I guess this turned out good for DC. They will be laughing all the way to the bank thanks to the film critics. Thanks CR!

  37. Littlebells June 18, 2011 at 12:13 PM #

    CR (and everyone): I just watched Superman: The movie and all I can say is that this new SM better live up to it’s predecessor! The theme (marvelously composed by the Great John Williams) is so uplifting and inspiring and Reeve’s portrayal of both Clark and Superman is untouchable (IMO).

    I felt like a kid again watching the film and when the film ended, I honest to goodness threw a fist pump, while shouting “yes!”!!! LOL!!! My husband looked at me like I was nuts (and apparently he has NEVER seen the movie–yeah. I KNOW!!!!!!)

    Anyway, that’s how one should feel leaving a super hero movie. We should be so enthused, our inner 10 year old wants to rush home, throw on our towel cape and jump off couches while we attempt to fly around the house!

    CR, I have a lot of questions for you, now that I watched this in a different mindset, but I think I will just send OB the list and forward them on to you. I don’t want to congest the thread. 🙂

    If you haven’t watched Superman in a while, find the time and do it. Off to go find my cape!

    • comic relief June 19, 2011 at 3:59 PM #

      I responded to all of your questions. OB should be sending you everything soon. Maybe we can discuss that and other pertinent issues soon.

      • comic relief June 19, 2011 at 4:04 PM #

        Maybe we can do this in the chat area the next time. Of course sending pictures might be a little more of a challenge but I don’t know.

        • comic relief June 19, 2011 at 4:43 PM #

          LB,

          We were just talking about this.

          http://www.comicbookmovie.com/fansites/Superhero9/news/?a=39788

          • Littlebells June 19, 2011 at 6:35 PM #

            THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!!!!

          • Littlebells June 19, 2011 at 11:43 PM #

            Thanks for the site. You know it makes me feel good that I’m not the only one who thinks about this stuff. Sometimes my brain goes wandering without me and I think too much.

            Um, yeah, GL’s does nothing. It’s not catchy and I can’t find the repeating melody. That’s what I loved about John William’s composition. It was catchy, it was thrilling, and it was easy to remember.

            Speaking of GL, check out some of the comments on this article:
            http://movies.yahoo.com/news/movies.reuters.com/green-lantern-falls-short-box-office-reuters
            (I”m sure you’ve already seen it)

            Thanks again, CR. I promise not to bug you too often. 🙂

            • comic relief June 20, 2011 at 9:29 AM #

              It wasn’t bugging, bothering, or anything of the sort. It’s just a giant entertainment topic, that no ever expected to surface. We’re all in this together.

              You probably saw it, but here’s another gnarly article:

              http://movies.yahoo.com/news/yahoo-contributor-network/why-green-lantern-important-dcs-future-cinematic-success

              • Littlebells June 20, 2011 at 11:19 AM #

                I love that you used the word “gnarly”. You must have been an 80s kid! 🙂

              • Littlebells June 20, 2011 at 11:23 AM #

                Whoaaaa!! Thanks for the article. Yes, DC seems to be having a much harder time. Eek!

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