Good morning everyone! I felt compelled to write today after reading THIS article on CNN and watching the corresponding video. I nearly had an anxiety attack after learning about this.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for charity. I'm more than happy to help out with a fundraiser, or collecting food, or donating where I can, or participating in different charity walks. Wherever I'm needed, I can totally help out. But as a comic book lover and collector, ARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!
It's obvious when I'm watching the video that whomever the books once belonged to, they took good care of them, which is even more infuriating to me. I don't think that the donor was the person who owned the books. I'm going to go ahead and say that someone passed away, and the comics were donated because whoever donated them had no idea what they were worth.
I guess this is just a good ol' Carly style rant. I'm not pissed or anything, because like I said, charity is a good thing, but in my mind, the donation would have been better served had the books gone to a professional auction, and the money was donated rather than the books themselves. Not to sound like a real shit, but I've seen the way things are taken care of at Goodwill and it's not with a whole lot of love and care. I've also known some people who have worked there, and I wouldn't be surprised of some of the books were "misplaced".
The Editor and I were at a Goodwill recently to get some articles of clothing for a party we were attending, and there were three or four boxes of comics on one of the tables. Of course, it was a big jumble of this and that, some with some worth behind it, and some so beat up and shitty that they wouldn't be fit for the quarter box. When we inquired about the price we were told that all comics were $1 regardless of condition, which tells me that they are ill equipped to deal with something like a $42k donation of books. But what do I know?
Again, charity is a good thing, by no means am I saying it's not, I just think that you should put in some effort to see what you're giving away before you do. Especially if that collection was loved by someone who passed. I just think that the collection would have been better off being auctioned off privately, and then have the money donated to a good cause. But that is just the collector in me...
If you want to see what was in the "generously donated lot" you can check out www.goodwillonline.com to bid. The bidding starts at $3.
Carly on Comics is a blog about all things nerdy. Carly is a 20 something chick who loves all things geeky, nerdy, dweeby and overall awesome.
Showing posts with label Rant. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rant. Show all posts
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Saturday, June 4, 2011
The Editor and Carly Go to the Movies (and Then Realize They've Made a Huge Mistake)
Hey kiddies! Sorry for being so neglectful with the posting lately. It's Summer, and it's beautiful, and we're having one of those "baby things" in six weeks, so I'm trying to pack in as many projects as I can before D-day. All that means is that I won't be posting as frequently, I will however try and stick to at LEAST an every other day schedule. I think between Evan T. and myself, we can pull that off.
So, there is a reason that Evan T. is my "just released" movie critic, and last night I was reminded why. Evan T. has this unique ability to not mind being anchovied into a movie theater with a bunch of idiots, whereas I just end up losing a little bit of humanity every time I decide to venture outside of my house to see a movie. The Editor and I had a free movie ticket that expired yesterday, and that is about the ONLY reason we went out on a Friday night to see a movie.
The movie we went to see was "Bridesmaids", which was very good. However, the people that a movie like "Bridesmaids" attracts, are the worst. We were surrounded by a bunch of chicks who didn't seem to know that they were in public, because they felt that they needed to A) constantly check their cell phone for the time, and B) explain the onscreen jokes to the other members of their party (eg: "OMG! There are NO lights on her car AT ALL!"). No shit Sherlock. That was the joke.
I hate being sandwiched in next to strangers as well. I believe I have expressed this displeasure in the past. I don't understand why, if I'm paying nearly $11 for a ticket, I have to be subjected to other people's ridiculousness. The guy I was next to wasn't bad last night, but it was amazing trying to watch him and his wife (who showed up just as the show was starting, so she she had to sit diagonally in front of him to make sure they could fill the theater to max capacity) try and communicate. It was like he was trying to land a plane. Outstanding.
Also, going to the movies makes me realize how shitty Hollywood is. It makes me realize that they make shitty movies, and they think that the public is a bunch of morons. I swear to God, two of the movie trailers we saw last night were for the same movie.
The first shitty movie we watched a preview was for a glorious turd called "Bad Teacher" starring Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake. If when you read those names, you said "OMG! I LOVE Justin Timberlake and/or Cameron Diaz!!!!", you should really not be on this website, and you should probably think about killing yourself.
Cameron Diaz is looking OLLLLLLLD. I realize that people do that. They age, but I feel like if you're doing it gracefully, you can pull it off. Ol' busted face Diaz is still trying to be a sex symbol, and it's just not working for me. Like, at all. And don't even get me started on Timberlake. I liked him in "The Social Network", but mainly because I feel like he didn't need to act. I sincerely feel that in real life, JT is probably an egotistical, narcissistic, asshole who thinks he's funny, and because he's so successful, everyone around him encourages his douchebaggery. I mean, you have to be a total shithead to be in a long term relationship with Jessica Biel, right?
This movie looks terrible. BUT people will go see it. And that makes me so sad. I made a bet with The Editor that it even makes #1 at the box office the week it comes out. It's coming out between "X-Men: First Class" and "Captain America", so that could very well happen.
The next shitty movie up for grabs is "Larry Crowne", which just basically looks like "Bad Teacher", only with people who used to be huge stars, and now just need a paycheck. I'm talking about Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks.
I know what you're thinking. "Carly, didn't I just watch a younger version of that trailer in the trailer above?". Answer: yes. Tom Hanks is the bumbling dork who can't catch a break. Julia Roberts is his hot professor. And guess what guys? THEY FALL IN LOOOOOOVEEEEE! *Barf* Really? Do you REALLY need to see this movie? I mean, how many times in a lifetime do you need to watch the same thing before you realize that Hollywood is just taking your money? *sigh*
BUT WAIT! It gets BETTER! *Sarcasm* The next steaming pile is called "The Change Up" starring Ryan Reynolds as a man whore, and Jason Bateman as a married guy. The two of them go out one night, drink a lot and then Jason Bateman wishes he were Ryan Reynolds and THEY SWITCH PLACES!! OMG! TOATZ ORIGINAL! Ugh, remember when they made this movie the first three times, and it was called "Freaky Friday"? I love Ryan Reynolds, and I have since "Two Guys and a Girl", but he's fast approaching on Anee Hathaway and Natalie Portman territory where it's like "How can I have time to miss you if you never go away?". I'm happy for these people because they're successful, but when they're cast in EVERY movie EVER made, it makes me tire of them rather quickly.
Yes! Finally! Another movie that shits all over marriage and having kids! OMG! It's the WORST! Amiright?! Sleeping around like a manwhore when you're well into your thirties is so cool. The STD's alone are A-MAZ-ING! It's like playing Russian roulette with your dick! There are no redeeming qualities to having a partner and kids. I mean, your life ends when you get married, right? UGH. Movies like this piss me off to no end.
The last movie trailer we was was for a movie called "The Help" (based off of the book by the same name) starring Emma Stone. This is the only movie of the bunch that I'd actually go see. The tagline on IMDB is the following:
"A look at what happens when a southern town's unspoken code of rules and behavior is shattered by three courageous women who strike up an unlikely friendship."
It's set in the 1960's in Mississippi, where African-American women were good enough to raise the rich white folks kids, but not good enough to use the same bathroom. Of all of the trailers I saw, this was the only one that made me want to see it. The Editor thinks that Emma Stone is going for the Oscar on this one too, because it's a period piece and she's uglied up in it.
This is fast becoming my longest rant ever, so I'll try and wrap it up. To summarize:
*I will not go to another movie past 3 PM because I refuse to pay $11 to share an armrest with a stranger.
*If you are in a movie, you do NOT need to check your cell phone, so don't be an asshole and do it.
*I do not require a running commentary of the movie, so shut your fucking mouth.
*Any candy that is in a crinkly bag needs to be opened before the movie starts.
*Don't clap and cheer for the movie. They can't hear you. It's a movie.
*Respect the people sitting next to you. Just because you're a teenager (which generally makes you the most obnoxious person in the room) and your parents gave you money to go to the movies and get out of their house for two hours, respect the fact that some people work for a living, and $11 is a lot of money to spend wanting to punch you in the face.
I hope everyone has a great weekend! I'll catch you when I can. xoxo
So, there is a reason that Evan T. is my "just released" movie critic, and last night I was reminded why. Evan T. has this unique ability to not mind being anchovied into a movie theater with a bunch of idiots, whereas I just end up losing a little bit of humanity every time I decide to venture outside of my house to see a movie. The Editor and I had a free movie ticket that expired yesterday, and that is about the ONLY reason we went out on a Friday night to see a movie.
The movie we went to see was "Bridesmaids", which was very good. However, the people that a movie like "Bridesmaids" attracts, are the worst. We were surrounded by a bunch of chicks who didn't seem to know that they were in public, because they felt that they needed to A) constantly check their cell phone for the time, and B) explain the onscreen jokes to the other members of their party (eg: "OMG! There are NO lights on her car AT ALL!"). No shit Sherlock. That was the joke.
I hate being sandwiched in next to strangers as well. I believe I have expressed this displeasure in the past. I don't understand why, if I'm paying nearly $11 for a ticket, I have to be subjected to other people's ridiculousness. The guy I was next to wasn't bad last night, but it was amazing trying to watch him and his wife (who showed up just as the show was starting, so she she had to sit diagonally in front of him to make sure they could fill the theater to max capacity) try and communicate. It was like he was trying to land a plane. Outstanding.
Also, going to the movies makes me realize how shitty Hollywood is. It makes me realize that they make shitty movies, and they think that the public is a bunch of morons. I swear to God, two of the movie trailers we saw last night were for the same movie.
The first shitty movie we watched a preview was for a glorious turd called "Bad Teacher" starring Cameron Diaz and Justin Timberlake. If when you read those names, you said "OMG! I LOVE Justin Timberlake and/or Cameron Diaz!!!!", you should really not be on this website, and you should probably think about killing yourself.
Cameron Diaz is looking OLLLLLLLD. I realize that people do that. They age, but I feel like if you're doing it gracefully, you can pull it off. Ol' busted face Diaz is still trying to be a sex symbol, and it's just not working for me. Like, at all. And don't even get me started on Timberlake. I liked him in "The Social Network", but mainly because I feel like he didn't need to act. I sincerely feel that in real life, JT is probably an egotistical, narcissistic, asshole who thinks he's funny, and because he's so successful, everyone around him encourages his douchebaggery. I mean, you have to be a total shithead to be in a long term relationship with Jessica Biel, right?
This movie looks terrible. BUT people will go see it. And that makes me so sad. I made a bet with The Editor that it even makes #1 at the box office the week it comes out. It's coming out between "X-Men: First Class" and "Captain America", so that could very well happen.
The next shitty movie up for grabs is "Larry Crowne", which just basically looks like "Bad Teacher", only with people who used to be huge stars, and now just need a paycheck. I'm talking about Julia Roberts and Tom Hanks.
I know what you're thinking. "Carly, didn't I just watch a younger version of that trailer in the trailer above?". Answer: yes. Tom Hanks is the bumbling dork who can't catch a break. Julia Roberts is his hot professor. And guess what guys? THEY FALL IN LOOOOOOVEEEEE! *Barf* Really? Do you REALLY need to see this movie? I mean, how many times in a lifetime do you need to watch the same thing before you realize that Hollywood is just taking your money? *sigh*
BUT WAIT! It gets BETTER! *Sarcasm* The next steaming pile is called "The Change Up" starring Ryan Reynolds as a man whore, and Jason Bateman as a married guy. The two of them go out one night, drink a lot and then Jason Bateman wishes he were Ryan Reynolds and THEY SWITCH PLACES!! OMG! TOATZ ORIGINAL! Ugh, remember when they made this movie the first three times, and it was called "Freaky Friday"? I love Ryan Reynolds, and I have since "Two Guys and a Girl", but he's fast approaching on Anee Hathaway and Natalie Portman territory where it's like "How can I have time to miss you if you never go away?". I'm happy for these people because they're successful, but when they're cast in EVERY movie EVER made, it makes me tire of them rather quickly.
Yes! Finally! Another movie that shits all over marriage and having kids! OMG! It's the WORST! Amiright?! Sleeping around like a manwhore when you're well into your thirties is so cool. The STD's alone are A-MAZ-ING! It's like playing Russian roulette with your dick! There are no redeeming qualities to having a partner and kids. I mean, your life ends when you get married, right? UGH. Movies like this piss me off to no end.
The last movie trailer we was was for a movie called "The Help" (based off of the book by the same name) starring Emma Stone. This is the only movie of the bunch that I'd actually go see. The tagline on IMDB is the following:
"A look at what happens when a southern town's unspoken code of rules and behavior is shattered by three courageous women who strike up an unlikely friendship."
It's set in the 1960's in Mississippi, where African-American women were good enough to raise the rich white folks kids, but not good enough to use the same bathroom. Of all of the trailers I saw, this was the only one that made me want to see it. The Editor thinks that Emma Stone is going for the Oscar on this one too, because it's a period piece and she's uglied up in it.
This is fast becoming my longest rant ever, so I'll try and wrap it up. To summarize:
*I will not go to another movie past 3 PM because I refuse to pay $11 to share an armrest with a stranger.
*If you are in a movie, you do NOT need to check your cell phone, so don't be an asshole and do it.
*I do not require a running commentary of the movie, so shut your fucking mouth.
*Any candy that is in a crinkly bag needs to be opened before the movie starts.
*Don't clap and cheer for the movie. They can't hear you. It's a movie.
*Respect the people sitting next to you. Just because you're a teenager (which generally makes you the most obnoxious person in the room) and your parents gave you money to go to the movies and get out of their house for two hours, respect the fact that some people work for a living, and $11 is a lot of money to spend wanting to punch you in the face.
I hope everyone has a great weekend! I'll catch you when I can. xoxo
Thursday, May 19, 2011
CEA + RPG = WTF?
Okay, so. Last night we began playing the "Star Wars" role playing game after taking, like, a two month hiatus. After returning to the game, I think I may have been the only person enjoying the hiatus. I don't know what is wrong with me when it comes to RPG's. I've tried D&D, Abberrant, and the "Star Wars" game, and I just don't think I was cut out for the world of role playing games.
It's certainly not a lack of imagination. I think it may be lack of attention span. For some reason I have the ability to imagine what my character looks like, imagine what the area (or ship) looks like, and imagine what my adventuring team looks like, I just can't find that place inside of me that BECOMES that character. Often times I'll be found in my own little world, with a sketch pad and some sharpies creating my vision of the world, meanwhile, my actual gaming character has no idea what is going on, and remains the mute of the group.
The only time I ever open my mouth is when I want to get in a scuffle. I'm truly beginning to believe that there are two types of gamers; those who kick-ass at RPG's, and those who kick-ass at first person shooter type stuff. I'm of the latter group. I like things to go fast, and hard, and intense. RPG games are a lot of discussion, without a lot of actual ass kicking, so I tend to lose interest.
It just makes me kinda sad because I see everyone else having such a great time, and I wish I could do that too. Meanwhile, I'm in the corner doodling, and secretly hoping we'll start up another game of "Give Me the Brain".
I will continue to play because I love my friends. They have been super great about accepting my shortfalls when it comes to RPG's, and they usually take it pretty easy on me. I may not love the game we're playing right now, but my Wednesday night nerds are the best people in the world, and I wouldn't trade my Wednesdays for anything. :-)
Gallery of Carly's RPG Artwork
I have decided to share a couple of pieces of artwork from my RPG gallery with all of you. I hope you enjoy!
Programming note: The parental units are coming into town this evening, which means I'm going to be maintaining somewhat of a radio silence until Sunday. Evan T. promised me some articles last night, so hopefully, it'll be enough content to get us through the next 2-3 days. I'll be talking to y'all on Monday!
It's certainly not a lack of imagination. I think it may be lack of attention span. For some reason I have the ability to imagine what my character looks like, imagine what the area (or ship) looks like, and imagine what my adventuring team looks like, I just can't find that place inside of me that BECOMES that character. Often times I'll be found in my own little world, with a sketch pad and some sharpies creating my vision of the world, meanwhile, my actual gaming character has no idea what is going on, and remains the mute of the group.
The only time I ever open my mouth is when I want to get in a scuffle. I'm truly beginning to believe that there are two types of gamers; those who kick-ass at RPG's, and those who kick-ass at first person shooter type stuff. I'm of the latter group. I like things to go fast, and hard, and intense. RPG games are a lot of discussion, without a lot of actual ass kicking, so I tend to lose interest.
It just makes me kinda sad because I see everyone else having such a great time, and I wish I could do that too. Meanwhile, I'm in the corner doodling, and secretly hoping we'll start up another game of "Give Me the Brain".
I will continue to play because I love my friends. They have been super great about accepting my shortfalls when it comes to RPG's, and they usually take it pretty easy on me. I may not love the game we're playing right now, but my Wednesday night nerds are the best people in the world, and I wouldn't trade my Wednesdays for anything. :-)
Gallery of Carly's RPG Artwork
I have decided to share a couple of pieces of artwork from my RPG gallery with all of you. I hope you enjoy!
 |
| DODA. My "Star Wars" character |
 |
| Mer-lady. Doodled this one up out of nowhere. |
Programming note: The parental units are coming into town this evening, which means I'm going to be maintaining somewhat of a radio silence until Sunday. Evan T. promised me some articles last night, so hopefully, it'll be enough content to get us through the next 2-3 days. I'll be talking to y'all on Monday!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Rant of the Week...
Hey guys! I was going to throw up our next installment of "Super Heroes from Other Countries", but then the following articles found their way into my life. THIS followed by THIS were posted on Facebook today. Please give them a quick read, and then find your way back here.
As a true fan, these articles really, really bummed me out. Adam Hughes is one of my most favorite artists ever, and J. Scott Campbell is one of The Editors favorites. I just don't understand for the life of me why someone would take advantage of an artists goodwill the way that this scumbag did. I can tell you, he wasn't the only one doing it though.
Remember the article that I wrote Monday about the Boston Con wrap up, and the guy with STACKS of the same comic books for J. Scott Campbell to sign? That guy is right up there with sketch guy. Hell, for all I know, it could be the same person.
It's completely disrespectful to the artist, and the fans who came out to see the artist to behave in this manner. The worst part is that this person (and I'm SURE he's not the first), blatantly LIED to Hughes and Campbell about their love of the work they do.
Later in the week, I'll be posting more info on the campaign that my friend Andy, of Downtown Comics, will be doing in the Fall. That ties in with these articles, because essentially, we will be accepting donations of artwork, comics, action figures, etc. all to raise money for a WONDERFUL cause. Now how are we supposed to approach people about donating to our cause without them being completely skeptical of what we're doing?
When you read the above articles, especially the one written by Adam's partner, you can tell that not doing commissions is not something that Adam really wants to give up, and he knows he's letting his fans down, but at the end of the day, can you blame him? I mean, if everyone could just try a little bit harder to adhere to the golden rule, the world really would be a better place, and shitheads like this wouldn't exist.
As a true fan, these articles really, really bummed me out. Adam Hughes is one of my most favorite artists ever, and J. Scott Campbell is one of The Editors favorites. I just don't understand for the life of me why someone would take advantage of an artists goodwill the way that this scumbag did. I can tell you, he wasn't the only one doing it though.
Remember the article that I wrote Monday about the Boston Con wrap up, and the guy with STACKS of the same comic books for J. Scott Campbell to sign? That guy is right up there with sketch guy. Hell, for all I know, it could be the same person.
It's completely disrespectful to the artist, and the fans who came out to see the artist to behave in this manner. The worst part is that this person (and I'm SURE he's not the first), blatantly LIED to Hughes and Campbell about their love of the work they do.
Later in the week, I'll be posting more info on the campaign that my friend Andy, of Downtown Comics, will be doing in the Fall. That ties in with these articles, because essentially, we will be accepting donations of artwork, comics, action figures, etc. all to raise money for a WONDERFUL cause. Now how are we supposed to approach people about donating to our cause without them being completely skeptical of what we're doing?
When you read the above articles, especially the one written by Adam's partner, you can tell that not doing commissions is not something that Adam really wants to give up, and he knows he's letting his fans down, but at the end of the day, can you blame him? I mean, if everyone could just try a little bit harder to adhere to the golden rule, the world really would be a better place, and shitheads like this wouldn't exist.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Summer Movie Meltdown
So The Editor, Evan T., myself and a couple of other nerds got into a heated discussion last Nerd Night regarding the upcoming Summer superhero movies. The question posed was "Which movie will do awesome, and which one(s) will flop?". I really need to invest in some sort of audio recorder, because the conversation was so dorky and got so much nerd rage going, that I feel I need to share it with the world. Anyhoo, here were our findings...
The movies that were worthy of making this list were; X-Men: first Class, Thor, Captain America and Green Lantern. The boys all picked their pony and the findings were very interesting.
The movies ended up basically in two categories, top of the list and bottom of the list. We were all in agreement that Thor and Cap would be in the top 2, and X-Men and Green Lantern would be in the bottom two. My personal thoughts top grossing to least grossing are as follows: Captain America, Thor, Green Lantern, X-Men.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a HUGE fan of Ryan Reynolds, and also a HUGE fan of DC, but lets face it, besides the Dark Knight franchise, DC isn't exactly making the best superhero movies. I mean, I LOVED Watchmen, but I can totally understand why people didn't. It was marketed as something it wasn't, and it was too smart for a lot of moviegoers. The story should have been told on screen 20 years ago when it had more relevance. Also, just watching the Green Lantern trailer makes me cringe a little. I think that the hokey factor is through the roof, and anyone who isn't familiar with the source material is going to be sitting there going "Why the 'ef did I just pay $10 to see a talking squirrel, and a bunch of dudes who can be killed by the color yellow?".
Again, DC misses the mark. They have every opportunity to make some kick ass stuff, but they don't listen to their audience. For the 1,000,000th time I ask, "Why no Wonder Woman movie?". Dudes would TOTALLY go out to watch a hot chick in tight clothes kicking ass, and girls would watch because, hell, it's friggen' Wonder Woman! I mean, lets look at the new upcoming Superman movie for a second. Once again, from what I understand, we will be told Clark Kent's origin story. Ew. I mean, really? Can't we just do it Superman:Earth One style and just address it in flashbacks? Or maybe take a cue from the newest Hulk movie, and do the origin in the opening credits? Until DC starts listening to its fans, they're not going to be able to beat Marvel at the box office. Plain and simple.
Next up on the chopping block is X-Men: First Class. I'm a HUGE X-Men fan, but *YAAAAAAAWN*. I really don't care. I mean, literally I could. Not. Give. A. Shit. I like my X-Men, I like their stories, I don't really give a rats ass about their origin. I think it being set in the 60's is a bad move because the plot is going to be lost on a lot of their core audience. You think that a 10 to 18 year old is going to understand the historical ramifications of what is going on in that time period? Try and ask a 14 year old who Celine Dion is, and they'll look at you like "Who the 'ef is that?". It's nice that they feel that we need a whole movie explaining Eric and Xavior's history, but I think the vast majority of people just want to see the X-Men kicking ass and taking names. Also, as pretty as she is, I've watched "Mad Men" and I'm reeeeeeally wondering in January Jones has the acting chops to pull off Emma Frost. I just hope we don't turn this into another "X-Men 3"...
Which brings me to Thor. Hmmmmm.... Evan T. seems to think that this will be the movie to win big at the box office. I disagree because at the end of the day, who really gives a shit about Thor? I mean that in the nicest way possible. I have NEVER been tempted to pick up a Thor comic. Not ever. I like Norse gods and fantasy and medieval, mythical settings, I just am not in the least bit excited to see this. I think it will do well at the box office because Thor is an Avenger and when they make the Avengers movie, I have a feeling that we'll be seeing him again, so we'll want to learn what we can about him and how it ties to the franchise. I think kids will like this movie because it seems like fun. There's a hammer and a god of thunder, and all sorts of cool fantasy type backgrounds, so I think it allows your imagination to run away with you a little more since it is not necessarily completely grounded in reality. One last little sidenote about the casting in this one: I honestly used to LOVE Natalie Portman, but she has now reached Zoe Saldana territory for me. I'm soooo tired of seeing her in every movie I watch. I'm hoping that she pops this kid out and disappears for a while, so I can miss her and begin to mend my love for her again.
Last but not least, there is Captain America. Love him or hate him, Cap has always been an A-lister in the Marvel world. His story is fantastic, albeit a little "Austin-Powers"ish, but at the end of the day Cap is a mans man. He is one of the leaders of the Avengers, and he has old timey values, just like one of the most beloved DC figureheads, Superman. He believes in truth, justice and the American way. I think the combination of story, likable actors, and the fact that he has the word "America" in his title, will make this the blockbuster. Also, if you watch the trailer, you see Steve Rogers as a weak, dorky looking guy who wants to fight for his country, and gets rejected because he's too small. He volunteers for the super soldier project and becomes a powerhouse! It's the classic "ugly duckling to swan" scenario, and who doesn't want to see that? Of all of the trailers I watched, this one was the only one that gave me goosebumps. Also, three words "Tommy Lee Jones".
I'll have to ask my authority on comic book movies what he thinks about all of these movies to really be able to see where the cards will most likely fall. My authority is my 9 year old nerd buddy, Clark, who lives across the street and he's awesome.Anyhoo, I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! I'm sorry for dumping a huge post on you this early in the week, but I've been storing all of these thoughts since last Wednesday, so I had a lot to say. Have a super week, and I'll blog ya back here tomorrow!
The movies that were worthy of making this list were; X-Men: first Class, Thor, Captain America and Green Lantern. The boys all picked their pony and the findings were very interesting.
The movies ended up basically in two categories, top of the list and bottom of the list. We were all in agreement that Thor and Cap would be in the top 2, and X-Men and Green Lantern would be in the bottom two. My personal thoughts top grossing to least grossing are as follows: Captain America, Thor, Green Lantern, X-Men.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a HUGE fan of Ryan Reynolds, and also a HUGE fan of DC, but lets face it, besides the Dark Knight franchise, DC isn't exactly making the best superhero movies. I mean, I LOVED Watchmen, but I can totally understand why people didn't. It was marketed as something it wasn't, and it was too smart for a lot of moviegoers. The story should have been told on screen 20 years ago when it had more relevance. Also, just watching the Green Lantern trailer makes me cringe a little. I think that the hokey factor is through the roof, and anyone who isn't familiar with the source material is going to be sitting there going "Why the 'ef did I just pay $10 to see a talking squirrel, and a bunch of dudes who can be killed by the color yellow?".
Again, DC misses the mark. They have every opportunity to make some kick ass stuff, but they don't listen to their audience. For the 1,000,000th time I ask, "Why no Wonder Woman movie?". Dudes would TOTALLY go out to watch a hot chick in tight clothes kicking ass, and girls would watch because, hell, it's friggen' Wonder Woman! I mean, lets look at the new upcoming Superman movie for a second. Once again, from what I understand, we will be told Clark Kent's origin story. Ew. I mean, really? Can't we just do it Superman:Earth One style and just address it in flashbacks? Or maybe take a cue from the newest Hulk movie, and do the origin in the opening credits? Until DC starts listening to its fans, they're not going to be able to beat Marvel at the box office. Plain and simple.
Next up on the chopping block is X-Men: First Class. I'm a HUGE X-Men fan, but *YAAAAAAAWN*. I really don't care. I mean, literally I could. Not. Give. A. Shit. I like my X-Men, I like their stories, I don't really give a rats ass about their origin. I think it being set in the 60's is a bad move because the plot is going to be lost on a lot of their core audience. You think that a 10 to 18 year old is going to understand the historical ramifications of what is going on in that time period? Try and ask a 14 year old who Celine Dion is, and they'll look at you like "Who the 'ef is that?". It's nice that they feel that we need a whole movie explaining Eric and Xavior's history, but I think the vast majority of people just want to see the X-Men kicking ass and taking names. Also, as pretty as she is, I've watched "Mad Men" and I'm reeeeeeally wondering in January Jones has the acting chops to pull off Emma Frost. I just hope we don't turn this into another "X-Men 3"...
Which brings me to Thor. Hmmmmm.... Evan T. seems to think that this will be the movie to win big at the box office. I disagree because at the end of the day, who really gives a shit about Thor? I mean that in the nicest way possible. I have NEVER been tempted to pick up a Thor comic. Not ever. I like Norse gods and fantasy and medieval, mythical settings, I just am not in the least bit excited to see this. I think it will do well at the box office because Thor is an Avenger and when they make the Avengers movie, I have a feeling that we'll be seeing him again, so we'll want to learn what we can about him and how it ties to the franchise. I think kids will like this movie because it seems like fun. There's a hammer and a god of thunder, and all sorts of cool fantasy type backgrounds, so I think it allows your imagination to run away with you a little more since it is not necessarily completely grounded in reality. One last little sidenote about the casting in this one: I honestly used to LOVE Natalie Portman, but she has now reached Zoe Saldana territory for me. I'm soooo tired of seeing her in every movie I watch. I'm hoping that she pops this kid out and disappears for a while, so I can miss her and begin to mend my love for her again.
Last but not least, there is Captain America. Love him or hate him, Cap has always been an A-lister in the Marvel world. His story is fantastic, albeit a little "Austin-Powers"ish, but at the end of the day Cap is a mans man. He is one of the leaders of the Avengers, and he has old timey values, just like one of the most beloved DC figureheads, Superman. He believes in truth, justice and the American way. I think the combination of story, likable actors, and the fact that he has the word "America" in his title, will make this the blockbuster. Also, if you watch the trailer, you see Steve Rogers as a weak, dorky looking guy who wants to fight for his country, and gets rejected because he's too small. He volunteers for the super soldier project and becomes a powerhouse! It's the classic "ugly duckling to swan" scenario, and who doesn't want to see that? Of all of the trailers I watched, this one was the only one that gave me goosebumps. Also, three words "Tommy Lee Jones".
I'll have to ask my authority on comic book movies what he thinks about all of these movies to really be able to see where the cards will most likely fall. My authority is my 9 year old nerd buddy, Clark, who lives across the street and he's awesome.Anyhoo, I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! I'm sorry for dumping a huge post on you this early in the week, but I've been storing all of these thoughts since last Wednesday, so I had a lot to say. Have a super week, and I'll blog ya back here tomorrow!
Friday, April 1, 2011
WTF Rant of the Week: Snooki
Okay, so earlier in the week, I found THIS blog post. I was skeptical at first, but when I actually sat down and read it, it made a lot of sense. JWoww actually does have a pretty good outlook on life, and at her core seems to be a pretty good person. I watched "The Jersey Shore" for the first season, and it got old pretty quick to me, but JWoww was definitely the least abrasive of the group. She is pretty, and she's likable, unlike a certain troll on the show.
It's a tie between Snooki and The Situation for me as to who is the most irritating person on the show. The Situation is a total moron, who I feel gets a lot more credit than he deserves. I'm always listening to The Editor and Evan T. talk about how his idiocy is just an act, and he's actually way smarter than we all think. Yeah, I'm calling bullshit on that one. Sure, he likes to stir the pot, I have guy friends who do that too. Sure, he likes to watch chicks fight, but usually boys like to watch that too, in anticipation that an article of clothing may get torn off. But at his core, I truly believe that the gel in his hair, and the chemicals in the spray tan have caused some mild retardation.
Did anyone happen to watch the Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump? It was unreal. The Editor and Evan T. were very uncomfortable and even felt bad for The Situation when he failed to deliver any sort of comedy, and was booed off stage. It was at that moment that I realized that true celebrities saw what I saw, a douchebag reality star who wanted to pretend he was famous by making fun of famous people who are always going to A) be more talented and B) have more money than him. I couldn't have been happier that he was finally being put in his place.
But I digress... This article is about the troll. In all of the time that the boys have been watching "The Jersey Shore", I have never heard a single intelligent thought come out of her mouth. Listening to her speak is like being awoken by the sound of a fire truck's siren at 3 AM when I'm sleeping, and looking at her is like watching a drunk hippo trying to hump another drunk hippo. At first it's funny to look at because you're trying to figure out what's going on, then the red rocket comes out and you realize what you're looking at, and you're like "Eeeeewwwwwww.....".
This all has a point to it, and here it is. Rutgers University hired Snooki to come and speak at their school. The kick in the ass? They paid her $32,000 to do it. $32,000. Let that sink in for a minute. Okay, lets say that you have a kid. You live in the state of New Jersey where Rutgers is located. Your kid is a freshmen. You and your significant other have been saving to send this kid to college since the time it was born. You've sacrificed. You've skipped vacations, and you decided to get the used car instead of the new car, all so that little nameless can go to a good school and get a good job someday. How THRILLED are you that not only do they hire a person who tells your kid "Study hard, but party harder!", but they also pay her as much as a FUCKING YEAR OF TUITION?! I mean, sure, you hire Maya Angelou, or some sort of Nobel-peace prize winning author, but SNOOKI?! For the LOVE OF GOD, you hire someone who is well on her way to dying from liver disease, an STD, or skin cancer by the time she's 40? I mean, seriously?
From what I understand, it was a student fund that put all of this together. To that I say, shame on you. It's so impossibly sad to me that the upcoming generation of people see her as a role model. It's sad that the upcoming generation looks up to ANY of them as role models. As well meaning as JWoww is, the words "role model" are not the first words I can think of when I think of her. The Editor and I are expecting a baby girl who is due in July, and honestly, the sheer lack of role models of today's society scares the shit out of me. We need more Biz Stones, Jack Dorseys and Chris Weltys and way less Snooki's and Teen Moms and Bachelors. I understand the need for entertainment, but since when did we decide that in our society, any behavior goes, and the worst behavior you have the bigger your star rises (Lindsey Lohan, I'm looking at you)? It's all just very sad to me.
HERE is the link to the biggest bullshit I've ever heard
It's a tie between Snooki and The Situation for me as to who is the most irritating person on the show. The Situation is a total moron, who I feel gets a lot more credit than he deserves. I'm always listening to The Editor and Evan T. talk about how his idiocy is just an act, and he's actually way smarter than we all think. Yeah, I'm calling bullshit on that one. Sure, he likes to stir the pot, I have guy friends who do that too. Sure, he likes to watch chicks fight, but usually boys like to watch that too, in anticipation that an article of clothing may get torn off. But at his core, I truly believe that the gel in his hair, and the chemicals in the spray tan have caused some mild retardation.
Did anyone happen to watch the Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump? It was unreal. The Editor and Evan T. were very uncomfortable and even felt bad for The Situation when he failed to deliver any sort of comedy, and was booed off stage. It was at that moment that I realized that true celebrities saw what I saw, a douchebag reality star who wanted to pretend he was famous by making fun of famous people who are always going to A) be more talented and B) have more money than him. I couldn't have been happier that he was finally being put in his place.
But I digress... This article is about the troll. In all of the time that the boys have been watching "The Jersey Shore", I have never heard a single intelligent thought come out of her mouth. Listening to her speak is like being awoken by the sound of a fire truck's siren at 3 AM when I'm sleeping, and looking at her is like watching a drunk hippo trying to hump another drunk hippo. At first it's funny to look at because you're trying to figure out what's going on, then the red rocket comes out and you realize what you're looking at, and you're like "Eeeeewwwwwww.....".
This all has a point to it, and here it is. Rutgers University hired Snooki to come and speak at their school. The kick in the ass? They paid her $32,000 to do it. $32,000. Let that sink in for a minute. Okay, lets say that you have a kid. You live in the state of New Jersey where Rutgers is located. Your kid is a freshmen. You and your significant other have been saving to send this kid to college since the time it was born. You've sacrificed. You've skipped vacations, and you decided to get the used car instead of the new car, all so that little nameless can go to a good school and get a good job someday. How THRILLED are you that not only do they hire a person who tells your kid "Study hard, but party harder!", but they also pay her as much as a FUCKING YEAR OF TUITION?! I mean, sure, you hire Maya Angelou, or some sort of Nobel-peace prize winning author, but SNOOKI?! For the LOVE OF GOD, you hire someone who is well on her way to dying from liver disease, an STD, or skin cancer by the time she's 40? I mean, seriously?
From what I understand, it was a student fund that put all of this together. To that I say, shame on you. It's so impossibly sad to me that the upcoming generation of people see her as a role model. It's sad that the upcoming generation looks up to ANY of them as role models. As well meaning as JWoww is, the words "role model" are not the first words I can think of when I think of her. The Editor and I are expecting a baby girl who is due in July, and honestly, the sheer lack of role models of today's society scares the shit out of me. We need more Biz Stones, Jack Dorseys and Chris Weltys and way less Snooki's and Teen Moms and Bachelors. I understand the need for entertainment, but since when did we decide that in our society, any behavior goes, and the worst behavior you have the bigger your star rises (Lindsey Lohan, I'm looking at you)? It's all just very sad to me.
HERE is the link to the biggest bullshit I've ever heard
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Wacky Wednesday: Wonder Woman Edition!
Here comes another rant! Lets start with this article. How many times have I expressed my disgust with Marvel and DC's portrayal of women? I think about 3,000. As you all probably know, NBC has gone to pilot with a new Wonder Woman TV series by David E. Kelly. Here's the picture of the new costume.
Adrianne Palicki looks like a total asshole. Let's overlook the fact that she appears to be holding in the worlds largest fart, and focus on the WTF? pants. Yeah, lets give her pants so tight she'll have to wear Camelflage to "hide" a few things, but what the hell happens if she has to run fast? Either she's going to melt her pants, or she's going to fall because her legs get stuck together! And forget sneaking up on someone... *squeak, squeak, squeak*
I like that Davis E. Kelly says that they're going to portray Diana as "a real complex woman and not just a superhero." Grrrrrrreat. So, we're going to have to deal with "Melrose Place" Wonder Woman? I don't especially care about her feuds with other people, or her many man-loves and trying to balance her work with her super human-ness. I just want a kick ass lady who is confident, and down to earth.
In the new series, she is a CEO of some sort of pharmaceutical company. Why? What's wrong with her being in the military? Or even a boutique owner like the Mod 70's version? Oh, I know, because that would be too releatable for a real woman to understand. You know us women can't think straight, with our hormones and periods getting in the way all the time. Also, the main villain is another female CEO of a rival pharmaceutical company. Wow. That is original. Way to shoot for the moon jackasses at NBC, no wonder your television ratings suck.
I guess I shouldn't be too upset though, because NBC has a track record of making shitty superhero shows. Whether they kill it after one season (like "The Cape"), or drag it's dying carcass around for four seasons (like "Heroes") it will eventually be put out of its misery. If NBC wants a story that real people will like, try asking real people what they would like to see. Don't just throw shit against the wall and see what sticks, because by doing that, you're doing everyone a diservice.
For a *cough cough* FASCINATING interview with Warner Brothers on this show click here. After you read it, take a moment to let it sink in and realize how unintelligent television executives think we are (OMG! Srsly guys! Katy Perry will be on an episode! We HAVE to watch!!). After that just remember, with any luck, it will be canceled after one season (if it makes it that far).
Adrianne Palicki looks like a total asshole. Let's overlook the fact that she appears to be holding in the worlds largest fart, and focus on the WTF? pants. Yeah, lets give her pants so tight she'll have to wear Camelflage to "hide" a few things, but what the hell happens if she has to run fast? Either she's going to melt her pants, or she's going to fall because her legs get stuck together! And forget sneaking up on someone... *squeak, squeak, squeak*
I like that Davis E. Kelly says that they're going to portray Diana as "a real complex woman and not just a superhero." Grrrrrrreat. So, we're going to have to deal with "Melrose Place" Wonder Woman? I don't especially care about her feuds with other people, or her many man-loves and trying to balance her work with her super human-ness. I just want a kick ass lady who is confident, and down to earth.
In the new series, she is a CEO of some sort of pharmaceutical company. Why? What's wrong with her being in the military? Or even a boutique owner like the Mod 70's version? Oh, I know, because that would be too releatable for a real woman to understand. You know us women can't think straight, with our hormones and periods getting in the way all the time. Also, the main villain is another female CEO of a rival pharmaceutical company. Wow. That is original. Way to shoot for the moon jackasses at NBC, no wonder your television ratings suck.
I guess I shouldn't be too upset though, because NBC has a track record of making shitty superhero shows. Whether they kill it after one season (like "The Cape"), or drag it's dying carcass around for four seasons (like "Heroes") it will eventually be put out of its misery. If NBC wants a story that real people will like, try asking real people what they would like to see. Don't just throw shit against the wall and see what sticks, because by doing that, you're doing everyone a diservice.
For a *cough cough* FASCINATING interview with Warner Brothers on this show click here. After you read it, take a moment to let it sink in and realize how unintelligent television executives think we are (OMG! Srsly guys! Katy Perry will be on an episode! We HAVE to watch!!). After that just remember, with any luck, it will be canceled after one season (if it makes it that far).
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Happy St. Patty's Day!
Today will be a rant, I'm going preface with that. Let me start off by saying that I don't get St. Patrick's Day. I really really don't. In my mind, all I see when I see a bunch of drunks together is a really really bad idea. Drunk people (boys especially) have a tendency to want to show off, and they want to fight when they've had too much to drink. Add in the fact that they've probably been up drinking since at LEAST 7 AM (Who wants to miss kegs and eggs? ewwww.....), and it's a recipe for disaster. Evan T. and the other Nerds were telling me of such a story that happened right here in Albany this past weekend involving a bunch of drunk college aged asshats, and way too much alcohol consumption.
Apparently, some of the kids attempted to start some sort of mini-riot in the student ghetto last weekend. The best part about it is that they really suck at trying to do it. I don't know what planet these jack-holes were raised on that they think it is okay to act like a bunch of coked up idiots and destroy property that doesn't belong to them. I take that back, because from what I understand coke-heads are in a generally better mood than drunks, so in the previous sentence replace the words "coked up idiots" with the words HUGE DOUCHEBAGS.
There was a huge article written by the local newspaper that was expressing it's concern about this incident giving the annual parade a black eye, and making Albany look bad. Hate to break it to you Times Union, but if the city had been doing a better job and keeping the order, it wouldn't happen. Also, thanks to the huge amount of drunk students downtown on a daily basis (walk Pearl Street on a Saturday night) and the fact that SUNY Albany is one of the top party schools in the country, you've already got a bit of a black eye. There are several times a year where there are "street fairs" and other occasions which street is closed down for essentially what becomes a big party. Here's an idea: ticket people for open containers. Or how about arresting people for fighting? A ticket for pissing in public perhaps?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for celebrating your heritage and whatnot, but I don't understand why it has to become "Wreck Other Peoples Shit Day". I'm not saying at ALL that we should suspend the activities that allow people to drink in the streets, all I'm saying is that a little personal responsibility would be nice. I mean, yaaaaaay, SUNY Albany has a rep for being one of the top party schools in the nation, but why do you need to carry that out into a public forum?
Bottom line is: have a good time. Shoot, have an alcohol fuled GREAT time, but be responsible. You are an adult, and if you want to get out of line, you should be treated like an adult. You know how to behave like a normal functioning member of society, so do it.
Below is a video from last weekend, showing theses jackasses trying and failing to flip a car. I mean, if you're going to get charged with trying to incite a riot, at least be able to flip a car. I'm just sayin'.... My personal favorite part is when they start chanting "assholes" at the cops. I think when you take a closer look at the video, you'll see that it is not, in fact, the cops who are the ones who are the assholes.
Apparently, some of the kids attempted to start some sort of mini-riot in the student ghetto last weekend. The best part about it is that they really suck at trying to do it. I don't know what planet these jack-holes were raised on that they think it is okay to act like a bunch of coked up idiots and destroy property that doesn't belong to them. I take that back, because from what I understand coke-heads are in a generally better mood than drunks, so in the previous sentence replace the words "coked up idiots" with the words HUGE DOUCHEBAGS.
There was a huge article written by the local newspaper that was expressing it's concern about this incident giving the annual parade a black eye, and making Albany look bad. Hate to break it to you Times Union, but if the city had been doing a better job and keeping the order, it wouldn't happen. Also, thanks to the huge amount of drunk students downtown on a daily basis (walk Pearl Street on a Saturday night) and the fact that SUNY Albany is one of the top party schools in the country, you've already got a bit of a black eye. There are several times a year where there are "street fairs" and other occasions which street is closed down for essentially what becomes a big party. Here's an idea: ticket people for open containers. Or how about arresting people for fighting? A ticket for pissing in public perhaps?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for celebrating your heritage and whatnot, but I don't understand why it has to become "Wreck Other Peoples Shit Day". I'm not saying at ALL that we should suspend the activities that allow people to drink in the streets, all I'm saying is that a little personal responsibility would be nice. I mean, yaaaaaay, SUNY Albany has a rep for being one of the top party schools in the nation, but why do you need to carry that out into a public forum?
Bottom line is: have a good time. Shoot, have an alcohol fuled GREAT time, but be responsible. You are an adult, and if you want to get out of line, you should be treated like an adult. You know how to behave like a normal functioning member of society, so do it.
Below is a video from last weekend, showing theses jackasses trying and failing to flip a car. I mean, if you're going to get charged with trying to incite a riot, at least be able to flip a car. I'm just sayin'.... My personal favorite part is when they start chanting "assholes" at the cops. I think when you take a closer look at the video, you'll see that it is not, in fact, the cops who are the ones who are the assholes.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Crazy Carly's Weekly Rant...
Hello everyone! I hope you are having a better day than we are here in Upstate New York! I spent the first 20 minutes of my day trying to pry The Editors car door open with no success. After the warm, but rainy day yesterday, of course Mother Nature feels the need to squash any feelings about nice weather we might have but dumping like, an inch of ice and 3 inches of snow on us. YUCK. I've decided that once The Editor and I need to upgrade house size, we are sooooo moving this show to California. Sure, they may have a crap economy just like New York, but at least they have nice weather there, so it doesn't make you feel quite as bad about it. And I know, you're like "But Caaaaarly, they have EARTHQUAKES in California!". To that I say, at least I don't have to own a snow brush.
As you can see, I'm on quite the ranting roll already this morning. The past two days I've just woken up crabby as all heck, and it hasn't gotten better. I blame it on cabin fever and progesterone. Today, we're going to talk about the movies, and why I prefer staying at home to going out to a movie 100 to 1.
Saturday night The Editor, Cara M., Evan T. and myself went to see a movie. We're kind-of nerds, so we thought we'd start watching all of the Oscar nominated films of the past year, starting with the winner: The Kings Speech. My review of the movie is as such: It was wonderful. I love British things, I LOVE Helena Bonham Carter and Colin Firth, and they has Corgis in it. Corgis are the best dog ever, so I was happy. The movie centers around King George IV and overcoming his speech impediment before he becomes king. It's a fantastic movie, that in my opinion deserved the Oscars it won. If you're a history geek like me, you'll like it even more.
There were a few things I didn't like. Not about the movie, but about the movie going experience. There are reasons that the "old way" of Hollywood trying to make money is failing, and I would like to touch on those reasons just a little.
1) Limited Seating- Okay, so , we show up at the movie about 20 minutes in advance for the 6:10 show. I think that is a perfectly reasonable time to show up for a movie that has been out for give-or-take 2 months now. Anyhoo, we show up, and of course, there is like, no seating. We quietly take our seats in the lower section closer to the screen, and get ready to be King's-speeched. Well, riiiiiight about the time the movie starts, an usher announces that they've sold out the show, so we're all going to have to squish together. Yeah, $12.50 for a ticket where I have to sit right next to a dude who not only picks his face, and bites his nails through the movie, but also feels a need to crack his knuckles and take up all of the arm room too. I. Hate. Awful. People.
2) Commercials- Ugh. I don't have to deal with these at home, why the 'ef do I have to deal with them at the movies? I don't even pay for cable, yet, I pay to watch commercials before a movie. Remember the good ol' days when they just ran trailers for like, 45 minutes before the show started? That was awesome.
3) Movie Placement- Please, for the love of God, don't ever put an action movie next to a drama. The Adjustment Bureau was playing in the theatre next to us, and it was suuuuper hard to concentrate on a dialogue based movie when you could hear the explosions happening in the theater next to you.
4) Children in Inappropriate Aged Group Movies- You run into this ALL the time. The worst offender I can remember is when a man trotted his toddlers into The Dark Knight and they proceeded to scream and cry the whole time. For real? You couldn't get a babysitter? You couldn't just wait the two months for the Bluray? As cute as you think your kids are, there is a time and a place for kids. If they're under 10, that place is at a PG movie. No exceptions. I don't care if you think your kids can be "intellectually challenged" by this movie, the rest of us just put up half a tanks worth of gas to see this movie, and your child should not have to be tolerated. Furthermore, The Kings Speech received an R rating?! WTF?! There was no nudity, no violence, and the only cussing was done in a way that was part of his therapy. I love our puritanical society...
Don't get me wrong, I love going to the movies for the most part. To me, it's less about the commercials, and the ticket prices, and more about the people around me that can totally ruin the experience. I love being able to get out of the house with my friends, and seeing something on the big screen and all of that. However, with ticket prices through the roof, and the fact that I have an 55 inch LCD TV in my living room, I've decided that my house is a much more desirable location to watch a movie. No screaming kids, no commercials, and no gross strangers sitting next to me. Just me, some reasonably priced snacks and the people I love. Oh, and I can pause the movie if I need to pee.
As you can see, I'm on quite the ranting roll already this morning. The past two days I've just woken up crabby as all heck, and it hasn't gotten better. I blame it on cabin fever and progesterone. Today, we're going to talk about the movies, and why I prefer staying at home to going out to a movie 100 to 1.
Saturday night The Editor, Cara M., Evan T. and myself went to see a movie. We're kind-of nerds, so we thought we'd start watching all of the Oscar nominated films of the past year, starting with the winner: The Kings Speech. My review of the movie is as such: It was wonderful. I love British things, I LOVE Helena Bonham Carter and Colin Firth, and they has Corgis in it. Corgis are the best dog ever, so I was happy. The movie centers around King George IV and overcoming his speech impediment before he becomes king. It's a fantastic movie, that in my opinion deserved the Oscars it won. If you're a history geek like me, you'll like it even more.
There were a few things I didn't like. Not about the movie, but about the movie going experience. There are reasons that the "old way" of Hollywood trying to make money is failing, and I would like to touch on those reasons just a little.
1) Limited Seating- Okay, so , we show up at the movie about 20 minutes in advance for the 6:10 show. I think that is a perfectly reasonable time to show up for a movie that has been out for give-or-take 2 months now. Anyhoo, we show up, and of course, there is like, no seating. We quietly take our seats in the lower section closer to the screen, and get ready to be King's-speeched. Well, riiiiiight about the time the movie starts, an usher announces that they've sold out the show, so we're all going to have to squish together. Yeah, $12.50 for a ticket where I have to sit right next to a dude who not only picks his face, and bites his nails through the movie, but also feels a need to crack his knuckles and take up all of the arm room too. I. Hate. Awful. People.
2) Commercials- Ugh. I don't have to deal with these at home, why the 'ef do I have to deal with them at the movies? I don't even pay for cable, yet, I pay to watch commercials before a movie. Remember the good ol' days when they just ran trailers for like, 45 minutes before the show started? That was awesome.
3) Movie Placement- Please, for the love of God, don't ever put an action movie next to a drama. The Adjustment Bureau was playing in the theatre next to us, and it was suuuuper hard to concentrate on a dialogue based movie when you could hear the explosions happening in the theater next to you.
4) Children in Inappropriate Aged Group Movies- You run into this ALL the time. The worst offender I can remember is when a man trotted his toddlers into The Dark Knight and they proceeded to scream and cry the whole time. For real? You couldn't get a babysitter? You couldn't just wait the two months for the Bluray? As cute as you think your kids are, there is a time and a place for kids. If they're under 10, that place is at a PG movie. No exceptions. I don't care if you think your kids can be "intellectually challenged" by this movie, the rest of us just put up half a tanks worth of gas to see this movie, and your child should not have to be tolerated. Furthermore, The Kings Speech received an R rating?! WTF?! There was no nudity, no violence, and the only cussing was done in a way that was part of his therapy. I love our puritanical society...
Don't get me wrong, I love going to the movies for the most part. To me, it's less about the commercials, and the ticket prices, and more about the people around me that can totally ruin the experience. I love being able to get out of the house with my friends, and seeing something on the big screen and all of that. However, with ticket prices through the roof, and the fact that I have an 55 inch LCD TV in my living room, I've decided that my house is a much more desirable location to watch a movie. No screaming kids, no commercials, and no gross strangers sitting next to me. Just me, some reasonably priced snacks and the people I love. Oh, and I can pause the movie if I need to pee.
Monday, February 7, 2011
Can't We All Just Get Along?!
Hello again! Today should be "Nerding 101", however, I'm going to take a week off to discuss something that is really bothering me: pretentious nerds. Now, I know that nerds, geeks and dweebs come in all shapes colors and sizes, and I just assume that everyone knows that. Some nerds are hot, some nerds are not, but in the end, as a whole, are all nerds about something. Whether that thing be "Star Trek", or comic books, or video games, or sports, people always have SOMETHING that they are passionate about. What I find completely uncool is when a nerd makes fun of someone else for something they like.
This comes completely from the Super Bowl last night. I was very sad to see so many of my fellow nerds have statuses like "Ugh, can't wait for stupid football to be over so I can watch Glee" and, "Do I have all of "The Maxx" comic books? Then of course I won't be watching the Super Bowl.". It bothers me so much because it's like saying "Hey, I'm a cool nerd, and I don't like football, so it's lame". When you do that it doesn't make you any better than the people who pick on you for what you like. You may not be a sports nerd (because most likely it was "the jocks" who picked on you 10+ years ago in high school), but there are people who feel the way you feel about the Super Bowl the same way they feel about "Star Wars". It doesn't make anyone wrong or right, it just makes you sound like a jerk who likes to pick on people who aren't like you.
I'm a nerd of all trades. I really like to try and consume myself with something before I decide if I like it or not. I used to not like football, because I didn't understand it, so I joined a fantasy football team. I thought D&D was totally dorky, until I tried it, now I hold the weekly "Nerd Night" at my house. My point is, at the end of the day, we should all try to be a little bit nicer to one and other. By shutting yourself out of something, and making fun of people for liking the things you don't understand all you're doing is limiting yourself. I have made some of the best friends in the world just by expanding my horizons. I challenge you all to do the same.
*Hugs and kisses*
This comes completely from the Super Bowl last night. I was very sad to see so many of my fellow nerds have statuses like "Ugh, can't wait for stupid football to be over so I can watch Glee" and, "Do I have all of "The Maxx" comic books? Then of course I won't be watching the Super Bowl.". It bothers me so much because it's like saying "Hey, I'm a cool nerd, and I don't like football, so it's lame". When you do that it doesn't make you any better than the people who pick on you for what you like. You may not be a sports nerd (because most likely it was "the jocks" who picked on you 10+ years ago in high school), but there are people who feel the way you feel about the Super Bowl the same way they feel about "Star Wars". It doesn't make anyone wrong or right, it just makes you sound like a jerk who likes to pick on people who aren't like you.
I'm a nerd of all trades. I really like to try and consume myself with something before I decide if I like it or not. I used to not like football, because I didn't understand it, so I joined a fantasy football team. I thought D&D was totally dorky, until I tried it, now I hold the weekly "Nerd Night" at my house. My point is, at the end of the day, we should all try to be a little bit nicer to one and other. By shutting yourself out of something, and making fun of people for liking the things you don't understand all you're doing is limiting yourself. I have made some of the best friends in the world just by expanding my horizons. I challenge you all to do the same.
*Hugs and kisses*
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Watchmen: The Failure by Evan T.
I have just re-watched Watchmen and man, that is some good movie. It is easily the most true to source material comic movie I have ever seen. I'm looking at panels in the book and seeing them on screen, listening to the words that I have read. I really think Zach Snyder's love of this material is what kept it so close to the source. This movie failed in theaters.
Why? Well let me tell you.
This movie was 2 hours and 40 minutes long. Most people have an attention span that cannot follow one minute commercials. Who thought people would be able to sit still for that long? I know what you are saying, Avatar is the highest grossing movie of forever and that movie was 2 hours 40 minutes. Yeah. No disrespect to that movie, I liked it a whole lot and am sure the Chief would call me an Ava-tard. That movie flows a little better and is not handling nearly the story load Watchmen does. It really gets heady.
The thing I blame most for the failure is the source itself. Watchmen is oft sighted as the greatest graphic novel. A creation that changed comics. Which it did. In 1986. The world of comics was very different back then. Hell, the world itself was very different back then. I really feel like people were slightly unimpressed with the movie because things have come since then and been more popular, really diluting the message and themes the book portrayed. I would like to know what the Chief and the Editor think about this subject.
Oh, and even though I did love the movie I didn't care very much for the book. It was hyped up beyond belief to me and I really was not impressed. I think, because, of all the comics and books and movies I had seen before reading it.
Why? Well let me tell you.
This movie was 2 hours and 40 minutes long. Most people have an attention span that cannot follow one minute commercials. Who thought people would be able to sit still for that long? I know what you are saying, Avatar is the highest grossing movie of forever and that movie was 2 hours 40 minutes. Yeah. No disrespect to that movie, I liked it a whole lot and am sure the Chief would call me an Ava-tard. That movie flows a little better and is not handling nearly the story load Watchmen does. It really gets heady.
The thing I blame most for the failure is the source itself. Watchmen is oft sighted as the greatest graphic novel. A creation that changed comics. Which it did. In 1986. The world of comics was very different back then. Hell, the world itself was very different back then. I really feel like people were slightly unimpressed with the movie because things have come since then and been more popular, really diluting the message and themes the book portrayed. I would like to know what the Chief and the Editor think about this subject.
Oh, and even though I did love the movie I didn't care very much for the book. It was hyped up beyond belief to me and I really was not impressed. I think, because, of all the comics and books and movies I had seen before reading it.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
300 and The Break Up
Four years ago, I saw the movie "300". The following is my immediate reaction to seeing that movie after having it highly recommended to me. Bear in mind I have NOT seen "300" since, so my views may have changed. That being said, my views on "The Break Up" remain the same. Jennifer Aniston is the worst. Please enjoy.
I have to get something off my chest, and I may come away from this having a couple less friends, but I have to put it out there. ..
There has been something happening more and more frequently to me lately. People keep telling me about these "awesome" and "amazing" movies that I just "absolutely HAVE to see, because it is the best piece of cinematic gold ever created". So what happens? I get REALLY excited to see these movies, and then I spend $10 to go and see this "life changing film", and it ends up being the cheesiest piece of crap I've ever seen.
In the past month I have encountered this twice. The two movies I speak of are "The Break Up", which I think was quite possibly the shittiest movie I have ever seen, and "300". I just don't get it. I went to see "300" with 3 other people, and they all were as disappointed as I was. Not one person warned us that it wasn't that good, so I feel that I have to take a stand, and let everyone know that "300" is nothing more than "Braveheart: Roman Edition". I actually got bored. When we were 25 minutes into the 3rd fight scene, I could have fallen asleep, not going to lie. Also, I found the movie to be a little...how do I put this?...gay. Jamie and I decided that this was possibly the gayest movie we had ever seen. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but there were definitely certain parts of the movie where we were uncontrollably laughing about the blatantly homoerotic undertones.
 |
| Just a little gay? |
And briefly touching on "The Break Up"...I didn't get it. I just didn't. I couldn't understand how two people in an adult relationship could be as daft as these two. The whole movie was about Jennifer Aniston being a total bitch, to get Vince Vaugn to love her, which he already did. Aw, "baby wanted 12 lemons", tough shit, he's a guy, he forgot, you should have done it yourself. I would drink lots of beer and play playstation if she was bitching in my ear too. Its more exciting than listening to her speak. Friends of mine actually get offended when I tell them how much I HATE this movie.
 |
| The WORST movie I have ever seen. |
All I'm asking is that if you are going to make a big fuss about a movie, make sure that you warn someone, that they may not feel the same way. All that needs to be said is "I thought this movie was great, however, there are parts of this movie (possibly the entire thing) that you may not like. I am simply telling you this because you are my friend, and I don't want you to waste $10, and two hours of your life to come out of this movie and want to kick me in the balls."
That's all I'm asking.
Sidenote: After putting the finishing touches on this post, I found THIS Wired article supporting my argument about 300.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Things That Make No Sense...
This might as well be titled "Things I Don't Get: The Jersey Shore Part 2", because both clips I'm about to share with you feature someone from that show. I was recently given this article to explain why we love that stupid show so much. It's actually a pretty good read.
Now presenting....
The WORST PSA Ever Made
Okay... I'll give you a moment to process what you've just seen..... Yes, that was a teen mother and a STD infected jack ass pretending to act. My personal favorite is that "The Situation" refers to Bristol Palin as "B-Palin". Am I REALLY to believe that Ms. Bristol is being abstinent? Not a chance. With a mom as hot as hers, she definitely has something to prove. Also, "The Situation" wraps it every time? Psssssshhhht. Bullsit. Guaranteed that his doctor took one look at his disease ridden penis and that was where "The Situation" came from.
Without further adieu, I give you...
The Worst Song Ever Sung
WHO THE F**K GAVE HER STUDIO SPACE?!?!?! I mean seriously, I am ENRAGED right now. Lets forget for a minute that she has no talent, didn't she LEAVE the show TWICE?! Does anyone even like her? I mean, the others have SOME redeeming qualities, what does she have besides a trashy accent and a bad attitude? I don't get it.
Now presenting....
The WORST PSA Ever Made
Okay... I'll give you a moment to process what you've just seen..... Yes, that was a teen mother and a STD infected jack ass pretending to act. My personal favorite is that "The Situation" refers to Bristol Palin as "B-Palin". Am I REALLY to believe that Ms. Bristol is being abstinent? Not a chance. With a mom as hot as hers, she definitely has something to prove. Also, "The Situation" wraps it every time? Psssssshhhht. Bullsit. Guaranteed that his doctor took one look at his disease ridden penis and that was where "The Situation" came from.
Without further adieu, I give you...
The Worst Song Ever Sung
WHO THE F**K GAVE HER STUDIO SPACE?!?!?! I mean seriously, I am ENRAGED right now. Lets forget for a minute that she has no talent, didn't she LEAVE the show TWICE?! Does anyone even like her? I mean, the others have SOME redeeming qualities, what does she have besides a trashy accent and a bad attitude? I don't get it.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Just to Clear the Air About the Whole "Marvel Thing"....
*Sigh*
Let me begin by saying that I never said I didn't like Marvel. Never ever did I say that. I do have some feminist issues with things over at both Marvel and DC, but at no point did I say I didn't like Marvel. I prefer DC to Marvel for the most part, but I also prefer Image to DC, but that doesn't mean I don't like DC. I'm open to anything in the comic world, really. When it really comes down to it, I do like the more independent stories (Fables, Y the Last Man, The Walking Dead, Air, The Unwritten, Sweet Tooth) more and I don't know why. I've never been a big "capes" girl. The X-Men were my first exposure to comics, and they hold a big place in my heart, and I guess part of the reason I get so "razzed up" about Marvel, it's that when they make a movie, I don't think they don't do the characters or the stories justice (up until Iron Man). The Editor thinks I'm getting upset, and I assure you I'm not. I just want it to be known that I never said I didn't like Marvel.
There seems to be some confusion in what I said about Marvel movies. If you go back and read the post "More DC/Marvel BS" all I say is basically that I PERSONALLY feel like DC movies have more drama and Marvel movies have more explosions. Yeah, I slam Stan Lee, but that's only because I think he's a dick. At the end of the day, I think they're both just fine. What it came down to for me was I PERSONALLY preferred one over the other. I also finished that post by saying how disappointed I was that both companies were throwing away characters that would be appealing to me, personally. If you did happen to take notice of the Halloween and Comic Con Pictures, you'll also notice that I was dressed up as a Marvel character for both.
In the post that opened the floodgates (I <3 DC Comics) the only place I can see people thinking I was "slamming" Marvel is when I compared "Marvel Divas" to "Gotham City Sirens". As far as that goes, all I have to say is this: I own the first issue of both comics. You read them and tell me which one is the bigger piece of shit.
In closing, when it comes to comics I am an equal opportunity employer. I love Rogue, Emma Frost and Ms. Marvel just as much as I love Batgirl, Catwoman and Harley Quinn. When it comes to ensembles, I actually prefer the X-Men to the JLA. That does in no way mean that I don't like DC. Content is content, and if I like your story, I like your story, if I don't I don't. End of story.
Below is further photographic proof that I have no beef with Marvel.
Let me begin by saying that I never said I didn't like Marvel. Never ever did I say that. I do have some feminist issues with things over at both Marvel and DC, but at no point did I say I didn't like Marvel. I prefer DC to Marvel for the most part, but I also prefer Image to DC, but that doesn't mean I don't like DC. I'm open to anything in the comic world, really. When it really comes down to it, I do like the more independent stories (Fables, Y the Last Man, The Walking Dead, Air, The Unwritten, Sweet Tooth) more and I don't know why. I've never been a big "capes" girl. The X-Men were my first exposure to comics, and they hold a big place in my heart, and I guess part of the reason I get so "razzed up" about Marvel, it's that when they make a movie, I don't think they don't do the characters or the stories justice (up until Iron Man). The Editor thinks I'm getting upset, and I assure you I'm not. I just want it to be known that I never said I didn't like Marvel.
There seems to be some confusion in what I said about Marvel movies. If you go back and read the post "More DC/Marvel BS" all I say is basically that I PERSONALLY feel like DC movies have more drama and Marvel movies have more explosions. Yeah, I slam Stan Lee, but that's only because I think he's a dick. At the end of the day, I think they're both just fine. What it came down to for me was I PERSONALLY preferred one over the other. I also finished that post by saying how disappointed I was that both companies were throwing away characters that would be appealing to me, personally. If you did happen to take notice of the Halloween and Comic Con Pictures, you'll also notice that I was dressed up as a Marvel character for both.
 |
| I hated her so much that I HAD to BE her!!! |
In closing, when it comes to comics I am an equal opportunity employer. I love Rogue, Emma Frost and Ms. Marvel just as much as I love Batgirl, Catwoman and Harley Quinn. When it comes to ensembles, I actually prefer the X-Men to the JLA. That does in no way mean that I don't like DC. Content is content, and if I like your story, I like your story, if I don't I don't. End of story.
Below is further photographic proof that I have no beef with Marvel.
 |
| A series of pics of Marvel characters proudly displayed in the Nerdatorium. |
 |
| The lunchbox I keep my spare derby wheels in. |
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Thursday Throwdown feat. Evan T.!
Hot Nerd Thursday is being pushed off this evening, because we have more pressing issues over here at Carly on Comics. Evan T. has finally decided to rebuttal my Marvel/DC post from last week. Below is a series of e-mails passed back and forth between he and I this morning. YOU can tell US who the winner is... Please do enjoy.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Carly
From: Evan
Subject: :-P
Sent November 11, 2010 at 10:13 AM
Listen. I have stood by as the main writer for this site has slandered the good name of marvel for too long. No more. The glorious company that I have loved for going on twenty plus years now has been demeaned and I will stand for it no longer. It is time. Marvel Rebuttal.
The first post that Carly had mentioned how she likes DC (Stands for Douchey Comics) more than Marvel. Don't get her wrong, she is a pretentious indy comic reader, for sure, but if she does read those silly mainstream books she reads mostly DC. First of all, let me just drop a bomb of truth on you boss: If Marvel and DC didn't have the mainstream juggernauts like they do they independent scene would not exist. So, yeah.
Secondly, Carl says she enjoys the stronger, more stand alone female characters. Then references that Ms. Marvel, Emma Frost and Rogue are members of groups. Hmm, introducing female characters in mainstream, popular comic teams is bad? To have these characters reach a larger reading group? Oh, that's bad? Ok. I started picking Ms. Marvel after having seen her in an Avengers story and loved her book. What about She-Hulk? She's not a good female character. She is a secretary. Oh wait, she's a lawyer and one of the more powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe? Oh. Elektra has always been a strong character and risen in popularity and prestige the last couple of years. I wont mention Jewel, Mokingbird, Spider-Woman, Scarlet Witch, Maria Hill, Firestar, Jocasta, Wasp, Black Widow, Sharon Carter, Valkyrie, Stature, Hawkeye (Kate Bishop), Karolina Dean, Nico Minoru, Gertrude Yorkes, Molly Hayes, Songbird, Moonstone, Colleen Wing, Misty Knight, Photon, Lyja, Invisible Woman, Namorita, She-Thing, Mudusa, Ronin/Echo, Vindicator or ANY of the about 30 mutant female characters because they are a part of a group.
Then Carlifornia sites Catwoman (Batman's Rogues Gallery and only got her own book due to the "Bad Girls" craze of the ninties), Zatanna (Long time JLA member) and Supergirl (Long time mess in the DC universe. Clone? Angel? Actual Kryptonian? Who knows). The only one I would have coincided is Wonder Woman. Easily the strongest female character in either universe.
I don't know what a female reader is looking for and I am sure it is difficult to relate. Neither of these companies have flawless records with integrating in Female, African American, Latino, Native American or disabled super characters. I will say they have made huge steps over the last couple of years, though. To say DC does it better offended the Marvel Zombie in me. Make mine Marvel.
P.S. - The majority of DC characters are super idealistic humans who then have every super power ever. As if they were created by the kid on the playground who always had the anti-bullet shield when playing guns. Marvel's characters are flawed from jumpstreet and not everyone of them could reverse the rotation of the Earth to go back in time (REALLY DC???). :) Hugs Chief.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Evan
From Carly
Subject: :-P
Sent: November 11, 2010 at 10:53 AM
Superman is flawed. Sure, he may be bulletproof, but he is left with the burden of being the savior of mankind. He is the last of his kind as far as he knows. He's an orphan who was sent to save the world. Like that isn't pressure? What about Batman? Batman watched his parents get murdered in front of him, which has left him an emotional retard. He also has the burden of knowing that anyone who has contact with the batman is putting themselves in harm (remember "The Killing Joke"?). Elektra wouldn't be around if it weren't for Daredevil. Namorita wouldn't be around if not for Namor. She-Thing? Same thing. She-Hulk? Exactly. These women are not "unique" characters. Same as X-23 being the female counterpart to Wolverine. Just because you put a vagina on it doesn't make it all better. I'm just defending myself because I feel like I'm getting unfairly attacked. Not to go all feminist on you, but you're not a girl, so you don't know what it's like to love something the way I love comics, and then come to the conclusion that the two biggest companies (Marvel and DC) really don't give a shit what the female audience thinks. I mean, not to bash on "kids today", but who the hell do girls have to look up to these days? Kim Kardashian? Paris Hilton? Girls are being told that its okay to be airheaded assholes and exploit their bodies because it may lead to them being famous someday. Famous for doing nothing. What it comes down to for me is not Marvel/DC, it comes down to sexism and role models. I understand that Marvel has created some female characters who are original (Rogue, Storm), and don't have a male counterpart, but the majority of them don't. I'm not saying that being a vigilante is a great idea, because teamwork is great too, but for crying out loud, girls should have more than one comic book role model that they can name. I'm not giving DC a whole lot of leeway here either. I mean, even if they do have stand alone women characters, they still objectify the hell out of them. I'm not saying that introducing characters as part of a team is bad, but even my beloved Ms. Marvel is the counterpart of Captain Marvel. I'm fully aware of this. I didn't go on a killing spree and attack anyone personally. In my mind (and it could be different for everyone on the planet, and I understand that) DC movies are more dramatic, Marvel movies are more action packed. Yee haw. They both have something to offer the audience. I'm simply saying that my PERSONAL taste is in DC movies. That is all. I don't think that my personal opinion warrants being called an elitist. Yeah, I do like independent comics. So fucking what? At the end of the day, all I'm saying is that as a girl, I think we could use more Wonder Woman in the world.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Carly
From: Evan
Subject: :-P
Sent: November 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Are you angry? Because we are talking about comics. And i don't want you yo be angry. It seems like your main argument so much about strong female role models which is an entirely different thing which I agree about and am not happy about. I want my nieces to have more strong female role models. But then I can give them a comic and they can see there are more to female characters than being Batmans girlfriend. Much love chief. Also female super heroes are useless one week a month.
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Thoughts and comments are welcome. End communication
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Carly
From: Evan
Subject: :-P
Sent November 11, 2010 at 10:13 AM
Listen. I have stood by as the main writer for this site has slandered the good name of marvel for too long. No more. The glorious company that I have loved for going on twenty plus years now has been demeaned and I will stand for it no longer. It is time. Marvel Rebuttal.
The first post that Carly had mentioned how she likes DC (Stands for Douchey Comics) more than Marvel. Don't get her wrong, she is a pretentious indy comic reader, for sure, but if she does read those silly mainstream books she reads mostly DC. First of all, let me just drop a bomb of truth on you boss: If Marvel and DC didn't have the mainstream juggernauts like they do they independent scene would not exist. So, yeah.
Secondly, Carl says she enjoys the stronger, more stand alone female characters. Then references that Ms. Marvel, Emma Frost and Rogue are members of groups. Hmm, introducing female characters in mainstream, popular comic teams is bad? To have these characters reach a larger reading group? Oh, that's bad? Ok. I started picking Ms. Marvel after having seen her in an Avengers story and loved her book. What about She-Hulk? She's not a good female character. She is a secretary. Oh wait, she's a lawyer and one of the more powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe? Oh. Elektra has always been a strong character and risen in popularity and prestige the last couple of years. I wont mention Jewel, Mokingbird, Spider-Woman, Scarlet Witch, Maria Hill, Firestar, Jocasta, Wasp, Black Widow, Sharon Carter, Valkyrie, Stature, Hawkeye (Kate Bishop), Karolina Dean, Nico Minoru, Gertrude Yorkes, Molly Hayes, Songbird, Moonstone, Colleen Wing, Misty Knight, Photon, Lyja, Invisible Woman, Namorita, She-Thing, Mudusa, Ronin/Echo, Vindicator or ANY of the about 30 mutant female characters because they are a part of a group.
Then Carlifornia sites Catwoman (Batman's Rogues Gallery and only got her own book due to the "Bad Girls" craze of the ninties), Zatanna (Long time JLA member) and Supergirl (Long time mess in the DC universe. Clone? Angel? Actual Kryptonian? Who knows). The only one I would have coincided is Wonder Woman. Easily the strongest female character in either universe.
I don't know what a female reader is looking for and I am sure it is difficult to relate. Neither of these companies have flawless records with integrating in Female, African American, Latino, Native American or disabled super characters. I will say they have made huge steps over the last couple of years, though. To say DC does it better offended the Marvel Zombie in me. Make mine Marvel.
P.S. - The majority of DC characters are super idealistic humans who then have every super power ever. As if they were created by the kid on the playground who always had the anti-bullet shield when playing guns. Marvel's characters are flawed from jumpstreet and not everyone of them could reverse the rotation of the Earth to go back in time (REALLY DC???). :) Hugs Chief.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To Evan
From Carly
Subject: :-P
Sent: November 11, 2010 at 10:53 AM
Superman is flawed. Sure, he may be bulletproof, but he is left with the burden of being the savior of mankind. He is the last of his kind as far as he knows. He's an orphan who was sent to save the world. Like that isn't pressure? What about Batman? Batman watched his parents get murdered in front of him, which has left him an emotional retard. He also has the burden of knowing that anyone who has contact with the batman is putting themselves in harm (remember "The Killing Joke"?). Elektra wouldn't be around if it weren't for Daredevil. Namorita wouldn't be around if not for Namor. She-Thing? Same thing. She-Hulk? Exactly. These women are not "unique" characters. Same as X-23 being the female counterpart to Wolverine. Just because you put a vagina on it doesn't make it all better. I'm just defending myself because I feel like I'm getting unfairly attacked. Not to go all feminist on you, but you're not a girl, so you don't know what it's like to love something the way I love comics, and then come to the conclusion that the two biggest companies (Marvel and DC) really don't give a shit what the female audience thinks. I mean, not to bash on "kids today", but who the hell do girls have to look up to these days? Kim Kardashian? Paris Hilton? Girls are being told that its okay to be airheaded assholes and exploit their bodies because it may lead to them being famous someday. Famous for doing nothing. What it comes down to for me is not Marvel/DC, it comes down to sexism and role models. I understand that Marvel has created some female characters who are original (Rogue, Storm), and don't have a male counterpart, but the majority of them don't. I'm not saying that being a vigilante is a great idea, because teamwork is great too, but for crying out loud, girls should have more than one comic book role model that they can name. I'm not giving DC a whole lot of leeway here either. I mean, even if they do have stand alone women characters, they still objectify the hell out of them. I'm not saying that introducing characters as part of a team is bad, but even my beloved Ms. Marvel is the counterpart of Captain Marvel. I'm fully aware of this. I didn't go on a killing spree and attack anyone personally. In my mind (and it could be different for everyone on the planet, and I understand that) DC movies are more dramatic, Marvel movies are more action packed. Yee haw. They both have something to offer the audience. I'm simply saying that my PERSONAL taste is in DC movies. That is all. I don't think that my personal opinion warrants being called an elitist. Yeah, I do like independent comics. So fucking what? At the end of the day, all I'm saying is that as a girl, I think we could use more Wonder Woman in the world.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To: Carly
From: Evan
Subject: :-P
Sent: November 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM
Are you angry? Because we are talking about comics. And i don't want you yo be angry. It seems like your main argument so much about strong female role models which is an entirely different thing which I agree about and am not happy about. I want my nieces to have more strong female role models. But then I can give them a comic and they can see there are more to female characters than being Batmans girlfriend. Much love chief. Also female super heroes are useless one week a month.
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Thoughts and comments are welcome. End communication
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Things I Don't Get: Jersey Shore Edition
Happy Sunday! On this day of our lord The Editor, Russel H. and Tiffany W. have decided to have a "Jersey Shore" season 2 marathon. When The Editor announced this to me yesterday, my response was to immediately find something else to do. I've been hold up in my bedroom watching"Smallville" for the past 5 hours.
I don't get it. I really really don't. I watched the first season and, not going to lie, I enjoyed it. I like to be entertained. I got it the first season. It was new and exciting and something for people to laugh about at the water cooler. What I want to know is why the hell do we still think this is funny? The same thing happens every episode. Ronnie and Sammy fight. Snooki is irritating. JWow plays with her boobs. Angelina looks like a muppet. And "The Situation", Vinnie, and DJ Pauly D manage to stay in neutral territory, all while collecting as many STD's as possible These people are not interesting, and they certainly don't have anything to add to society, so why does everyone still tune in? When the point comes that I can't even turn on non-cable stations without seeing these people, we have a problem. Nay, an epidemic. It's disgusting that people look up to these idiots as role models. I mean, really? It's totally okay to have people promoting alcohol poisoning, skin cancer, STD's and generally inane behavior? The girls refer to a man who likes to work out, and is obviously on steroids as a "Juicehead". Yeah, that's exactly what I hope my daughter comes home with some day. Maybe my son will meet a nice stripper too.
I'm not scrutinizing people for watching it. I myself watch some sub-par programming too. All I'm asking is why do these people belong on a pedestal? What exactly have they done to deserve it except for drink, smoke, tan, and "smoosh"? When you're watching the show, thinking about how white trash these people are just remember, they're probably earning at LEAST 3 times as much as you do annually, just by being total assholes. Sleep tight!
I don't get it. I really really don't. I watched the first season and, not going to lie, I enjoyed it. I like to be entertained. I got it the first season. It was new and exciting and something for people to laugh about at the water cooler. What I want to know is why the hell do we still think this is funny? The same thing happens every episode. Ronnie and Sammy fight. Snooki is irritating. JWow plays with her boobs. Angelina looks like a muppet. And "The Situation", Vinnie, and DJ Pauly D manage to stay in neutral territory, all while collecting as many STD's as possible These people are not interesting, and they certainly don't have anything to add to society, so why does everyone still tune in? When the point comes that I can't even turn on non-cable stations without seeing these people, we have a problem. Nay, an epidemic. It's disgusting that people look up to these idiots as role models. I mean, really? It's totally okay to have people promoting alcohol poisoning, skin cancer, STD's and generally inane behavior? The girls refer to a man who likes to work out, and is obviously on steroids as a "Juicehead". Yeah, that's exactly what I hope my daughter comes home with some day. Maybe my son will meet a nice stripper too.
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| How many STD's can you count in this picture? |
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
More DC/Marvel B.S.
Good afternoon kiddies! As you remember Tuesdays are Carly's "rant" days. We were off to a good start with the "I <3 DC" post from last week, and I'm going to continue that this week while we discuss movies! There is a large majority of people who believe that DC movies don't come close in comparison to Marvel movies. I tend to disagree. Maybe in the last 10 years Marvel has put out some decent stuff, but DC is better long term (lest we forget the super campy, super awesome Tim Burton and Joel Schumacker "Batman" movies). I'm not trying to massage the ego's of anyone at DC, I personally think that they are sitting on a treasure trove of characters that they are downright stupid not to use, and they have made some insanely crappy movies ("Superman Returns", anyone?), but as far as drama and content go, I think that DC beats Marvel hands down. I went and saw "Iron Man 2" this past Summer, and I did enjoy it. I also saw "X-Men Origins: Wolverine", the previous year, which I thought was nowhere as good as it's predecessors (X-Men I-III). Marvel movies are great because you don't have to think. Like, at all. Why do you think that "Watchmen" failed at the movie theater? I'll tell you why. Because people went into the movie thinking it was going to be all explosions and shoot em' up style superheroes. Sorry, there was a plot. Also, people in the United States would much rather see someone cut off someone else's head than god forbid, see a penis, in a non-sexual manner, on the big screen. That is one thing that just blows my mind about us as a country. We are more than happy to see murder or torture than to see a naked human being. But I digress...
When you stack "Iron Man" against "The Dark Knight", to me there is no comparison. In "The Dark Knight" you are emotionally involved with the characters. You see Bruce Wayne go through traumas and express emotions. Which is why, as an adult, I enjoy "The Dark Knight" so much more. If I were a little kid and all I had to do was stare at the screen while 90 minutes of explosions hit me in the face, it would be a different story. Both companies make movies that are fun to go to, I just think content wise, in the past 10 years one has much more to offer emotionally than the other. My irritation of Marvel may also come from my disdain for Stan Lee and the fact that he has taken credit for much more than he deserves over the years, but that's just me.
Any way you slice it, Marvel and DC owned by huge corporations. Marvel being owned by Disney and DC being owned by Time/Warner. Both companies have a ton of characters that they could be doing things with, but instead choose to sit on them and do nothing. I'm not particularly happy that DC has seemingly put the kibosh on a "Wonder Woman" movie, but I'm also not particularly happy that Ms. Marvel isn't being included in the "Avengers" movie. I mean, for crying out loud, we put that no talent ass clown Scarlett Johanssen in "Iron Man", can't we find someone else to play the hot blond Skrull infected Carol Danvers? Of course not, because if we start having female lead characters in a superhero movie, who are they going to save?
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| There's no reason to fear the dong! |
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| Nice dye job. At least your boobs have talent... |
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