Last night, I was bored and tired - a long Wednesday drive to deep Jefferson County (with a meeting in north St. Louis that was canceled with no notice to me) left me drained - so much so that I spent Thursday at the office, just barely getting through my paperwork. So I rifled through my graphic novel collection, and reacquained myself with an old friend...and a work that is proving almost timely and timeless in the same moment.
Ladies and gentlemen, I give you V for Vendetta.
It was written in the late 70's (finally completed in the '80s by DC), and talks about the frightening world of 1997 - England is a fascist state; people scramble to survive, and a mysterious figure, dressed like British legend Guy Fawkes engages in acts designed to shake up the system.
However, this post isn't going to be a typical review - if you want a much clearer, more extensive exploration of the Alan Moore/David Lloyd work, click here. However, not only do I think of this as an excellent work, I'm going to go out on a limb and make the following statement:
V for Vendetta is the graphic novel equivalent of The Prisoner.
Both works deal with big issues - freedom, the individual vs. society, the way power is used and abused. Both works deal with relatively anonymous figures - Number 6 and V, aka "The Man From Room Five" about whom we know little, if anything. Both men take drastic actions against their situations, and aggressively pursue their agendas. Both works are also visually distinctive, and are products of their time visually and thematically. We also see that both protagonists do things that are not necessarily the most positive (V's cruel treatment of Evey to "free" her, Number 6's questionable attitude towards women, "especially the four-legged kind".) Both even assert that being true to oneself is the greatest freedom, and both works were done "on the fly" as it were - no big plan, no critical outline, etc.
However, there are some crucial differences - The Prisoner ends on a curve, suggesting that one can never be free, while V for Vendetta suggests a less cynical end. Number 6 has almost severe contempt for his fellow "inmates", whereas V can demonstrate some compassion, at times.
However, ultimately the difference is the approach of both authors. With Patrick McGoohan, he was coming from Secret Agent, a show which had made him a star. Alan Moore and David Lloyd were relative unknowns, writing a strip that appeared on a weekly basis.
However, both works have a timelessness and speak on themes that, today, seem more fresh than ever. Both are well worth your time.
October 29, 2004
October 28, 2004
October 27, 2004
Sandman Mystery Theater
I had read the news last night on Yet Another Comics Blog - there would actually be a volume 2 trade paperback of Sandman Mystery Theater, to follow the initial volume 1 which came out (seemingly) ages ago.
Sandman Mystery Theater came out around the same time as James Robinson's Starman (in fact, the two characters had a crossover), and was soon followed by Matt Wagner's take on Dr. Mid-Nite. Of course, this book took the original character of the Golden Age Sandman and simultaneously tweaked it, adding the Neil Gaiman mythos and stripping it to its pulp roots. In the Sandman's world, there were no other costumed heroes (one of the few benefits of DC's rebooting was that, in the "new" history, Sandman was the one who started it all), and the Sandman moved in a world that seemed written in collaboration between Lewis Carroll and Raymond Chandler - a world where dreams, corruption, and moral decay all intermixed, and where the boundary between dreams and reality often blurred.
Each story arc began with a black-and-white dream sequence (after all, Wesley Dodds has an aspect of the Dreaming inside of him, and actually met his supernatural counterpart), and then went into great, 1930's-era tales, either re-telling stories for the first time (The Tarantula, the Crimson Avenger/World's Fair Encounter), creating new stories, or even great spins on classic Golden Age characters. For example, the "Man of the Hour" arc introduced Hourman, but without the classic hood-and-cape costume; here, he was a pulp-style troubleshooter with Miraclo. In "The Mist", we met Ted Knight (the first Starman) and the Mist for the first time, but without the usual trappings or cliches. It was as if a straight line was drawn between Doc Savage, the Shadow, straight through the Sandman.
This was also one of the first books that provided a sense of history and context to the DC Universe. At a time where teams with long histories can be "reintroduced" for the first time at the whim of editors and creators, this was one of the few books (along with James Robinson's Starman) that showed a genuine respect for the characters and history - that treated continuity not as a restriction on creativity, but as a springboard from which greater, stronger stories could be told. In fact, SMT played with continuity, introducing a pudgy, bespectacled Wesley Dodds in the infamous purple-and-gold suit, had a "comic" version in their annual (within the context of a pulp writer's murder), with a knowing wink that said, "We care about these characters, and we know you do too."
Another refreshing aspect of this series - the characterizations. Wesley Dodds wasn't a handsome man about town, but a pudgy, bespectacled intellectual. His relationship with Dian Belmont grows throughout the series, and it is one of the most honest, adult portrayals of male/female relationships ever presented in comics. We see both of them struggle with their growing attraction to each other, and in atypical comics form, not only does Dian figure out Wes' double life, but she becomes an active partner in his life. Some comic writers dealing with, say, arachnid-based powers could learn a lesson or two from this series.
Unfortunately, the series did end abruptly in the middle of an arc, and is not one of the more "popular" DC series. It should only be right that, instead of 2 volumes, the entire series is republished, much like James Robinson's Starman.
This comic is a near-masterpiece, and deserves greater attention. Please don't deny yourself the chance to experience a true hidden gem...at least, until some comics creator decides that he or she can do better.
Sandman Mystery Theater came out around the same time as James Robinson's Starman (in fact, the two characters had a crossover), and was soon followed by Matt Wagner's take on Dr. Mid-Nite. Of course, this book took the original character of the Golden Age Sandman and simultaneously tweaked it, adding the Neil Gaiman mythos and stripping it to its pulp roots. In the Sandman's world, there were no other costumed heroes (one of the few benefits of DC's rebooting was that, in the "new" history, Sandman was the one who started it all), and the Sandman moved in a world that seemed written in collaboration between Lewis Carroll and Raymond Chandler - a world where dreams, corruption, and moral decay all intermixed, and where the boundary between dreams and reality often blurred.
Each story arc began with a black-and-white dream sequence (after all, Wesley Dodds has an aspect of the Dreaming inside of him, and actually met his supernatural counterpart), and then went into great, 1930's-era tales, either re-telling stories for the first time (The Tarantula, the Crimson Avenger/World's Fair Encounter), creating new stories, or even great spins on classic Golden Age characters. For example, the "Man of the Hour" arc introduced Hourman, but without the classic hood-and-cape costume; here, he was a pulp-style troubleshooter with Miraclo. In "The Mist", we met Ted Knight (the first Starman) and the Mist for the first time, but without the usual trappings or cliches. It was as if a straight line was drawn between Doc Savage, the Shadow, straight through the Sandman.
This was also one of the first books that provided a sense of history and context to the DC Universe. At a time where teams with long histories can be "reintroduced" for the first time at the whim of editors and creators, this was one of the few books (along with James Robinson's Starman) that showed a genuine respect for the characters and history - that treated continuity not as a restriction on creativity, but as a springboard from which greater, stronger stories could be told. In fact, SMT played with continuity, introducing a pudgy, bespectacled Wesley Dodds in the infamous purple-and-gold suit, had a "comic" version in their annual (within the context of a pulp writer's murder), with a knowing wink that said, "We care about these characters, and we know you do too."
Another refreshing aspect of this series - the characterizations. Wesley Dodds wasn't a handsome man about town, but a pudgy, bespectacled intellectual. His relationship with Dian Belmont grows throughout the series, and it is one of the most honest, adult portrayals of male/female relationships ever presented in comics. We see both of them struggle with their growing attraction to each other, and in atypical comics form, not only does Dian figure out Wes' double life, but she becomes an active partner in his life. Some comic writers dealing with, say, arachnid-based powers could learn a lesson or two from this series.
Unfortunately, the series did end abruptly in the middle of an arc, and is not one of the more "popular" DC series. It should only be right that, instead of 2 volumes, the entire series is republished, much like James Robinson's Starman.
This comic is a near-masterpiece, and deserves greater attention. Please don't deny yourself the chance to experience a true hidden gem...at least, until some comics creator decides that he or she can do better.
October 26, 2004
True Lies (Not What You Think)...
First, in a blatant attempt to electioneer to my STL City pals and readers, please support the charter amendments and the Proposition K initiatives. This has nothing to do with the title; just a blatant political plug.
Anyway, yesterday we had our monthly staff meeting - mostly, it tends to be more operational, boring staff meeting kind of stuff, but we watched a very interesting video called True Lies.
No, it's not the Arnold Schwartzenegger/Jamie Lee Curtis/James Cameron movie - it was a tape which highlighted how the media lies to teenagers about sex and drugs. Wow, the media actually lies? What a surprise.
Enough sarcasm - this tape made some very interesting, yet almost pointed, insights, including
Basically, he tells parents to go to theaters and, well, encourage them not to show certain movies. Well within their rights, but one of my coworkers made a better point - when his then 11 year-old son wanted to buy a CD that was "questionable", the two of them went and listened to the disc together. The father then agreed to buy the CD if the son would skip over certain tracks.
Just some food for thought...at the very least, some interesting discussion.
Anyway, yesterday we had our monthly staff meeting - mostly, it tends to be more operational, boring staff meeting kind of stuff, but we watched a very interesting video called True Lies.
No, it's not the Arnold Schwartzenegger/Jamie Lee Curtis/James Cameron movie - it was a tape which highlighted how the media lies to teenagers about sex and drugs. Wow, the media actually lies? What a surprise.
Enough sarcasm - this tape made some very interesting, yet almost pointed, insights, including
- Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and other artists promote premarital sex as being all right
- Rap groups promote drug use in their music
- Most movies aimed at teens glorify drug and alcohol use and premarital sex.
Basically, he tells parents to go to theaters and, well, encourage them not to show certain movies. Well within their rights, but one of my coworkers made a better point - when his then 11 year-old son wanted to buy a CD that was "questionable", the two of them went and listened to the disc together. The father then agreed to buy the CD if the son would skip over certain tracks.
Just some food for thought...at the very least, some interesting discussion.
October 25, 2004
October 24, 2004
More Identity Crisis Speculation (satire)
OK, I know I've done this before, but after issue 5....actually, this is more of a comment than speculation.
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So Captain Boomerang's son has super-speed, huh? This can either go one of several ways:
Gee, kids, ain't comics fun?
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So Captain Boomerang's son has super-speed, huh? This can either go one of several ways:
- The Captain and Iris West had a fling, and resulting pregnancy;
- The Captain had a passionate affair with Joan Garrick;
- Boomerang Jr. loved playing with chemicals in thunderstorms;
- Boomerang Jr. is Wally West's Long-Lost Twin Brother; or
- Barry Allen fooled around with Boomerang's sister.
Gee, kids, ain't comics fun?
This Week's Blog Reading
Never one to have an original idea myself, here are some highlights from the blogosphere...
My friend Brian is looking for costume ideas - please help! (BTW, since I couldn't find a cheap gas mask, I'm going as animated Batman!)
Scott at Polite Dissent encourages you to vote Voodoo!
Psychbloke finds a very interesting piece of 1960s-era England
The best political blog in STL talks about a really dumb plan to handle meth. Even though I'm a warm-and-fuzzy prevention guy, even I have my limits.
Thanks to Ian's Talkin' Chaykin series, I have a much better appreciation for Chaykin's work...and will be checking out a back issue bin near me!
Thanks to Boing Boing for information on L. Ron Hubbard: The School Play Version
Laura's comment on Superman: True Brit pretty much sums up my feeling about this particular artist's work
A shout-out to Screen Rant, my favorite entertainment blog, for this devastating insight as to a possible reason why Paris Hilton got famous. (My conclusion, not his, folks)
Will Pfeifer has given me one more reason to respect him.
Dave at Yet Another Comics Blog gives some other highlights in the blogosphere as well.
My friend Brian is looking for costume ideas - please help! (BTW, since I couldn't find a cheap gas mask, I'm going as animated Batman!)
Scott at Polite Dissent encourages you to vote Voodoo!
Psychbloke finds a very interesting piece of 1960s-era England
The best political blog in STL talks about a really dumb plan to handle meth. Even though I'm a warm-and-fuzzy prevention guy, even I have my limits.
Thanks to Ian's Talkin' Chaykin series, I have a much better appreciation for Chaykin's work...and will be checking out a back issue bin near me!
Thanks to Boing Boing for information on L. Ron Hubbard: The School Play Version
Laura's comment on Superman: True Brit pretty much sums up my feeling about this particular artist's work
A shout-out to Screen Rant, my favorite entertainment blog, for this devastating insight as to a possible reason why Paris Hilton got famous. (My conclusion, not his, folks)
Will Pfeifer has given me one more reason to respect him.
Dave at Yet Another Comics Blog gives some other highlights in the blogosphere as well.
October 23, 2004
National Novel Writing Month
I'm seriously considering this idea..., although I have no idea what I would write about.
Any and all suggestions welcome.
Any and all suggestions welcome.
America, F**** Yeah!
Ok, so I'm getting over a really bad flu, I spent most of yesterday evening sleeping, I had a quick errand to run this morning, and I'm bored at 1:00 pm on a sunny Saturday afternoon. What's a boy to do?
Well, I went to see Team America: World Police, the latest cinematic offering from Trey Parker & Matt Stone, aka the South Park guys. In the words of Stan Marsh, dude, you have got to see this movie.
For a non-spoilerish review of the plot, click here - in my humble opinion, this is their best, all-out funny comedy since Orgazmo (when is this coming out on domestic DVD? Huh? ). It's a puppet-driven take-off of every lame action picture (and, by token, comic book movie) ever made.
The puppets, in a way, help give the movie a much sharper satirical edge than either real actors or animation - they are simultaneous real and phony, and allow the movie to take pot shots at such matters as terrorism, American imperialism, and liberal Hollywood sanctimoniousness. (There's even a vomit scene that rivals the Mr. Creosote sketch in Monty Python's Meaning of Life). Everything is over-the-top and offensive - including the skewering of such figures who have been friendly to Parker and Stone, such as George Clooney and Michael Moore - but that's half the fun of this movie. Much of it, like in earlier Parker/Stone efforts, is the music, which parodies every single musical form, from the hard rock anthem to - I kid you not - a song that simultaneously insults the Ben Affleck abomination Pearl Harbor and declares undying love to another person.
The Bush administration has publicly scolded this movie for not taking terrorism seriously - I suggest that, before you go to vote, you see this movie. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will see two puppets do obscene things to each other onscreen.
Well, I went to see Team America: World Police, the latest cinematic offering from Trey Parker & Matt Stone, aka the South Park guys. In the words of Stan Marsh, dude, you have got to see this movie.
For a non-spoilerish review of the plot, click here - in my humble opinion, this is their best, all-out funny comedy since Orgazmo (when is this coming out on domestic DVD? Huh? ). It's a puppet-driven take-off of every lame action picture (and, by token, comic book movie) ever made.
The puppets, in a way, help give the movie a much sharper satirical edge than either real actors or animation - they are simultaneous real and phony, and allow the movie to take pot shots at such matters as terrorism, American imperialism, and liberal Hollywood sanctimoniousness. (There's even a vomit scene that rivals the Mr. Creosote sketch in Monty Python's Meaning of Life). Everything is over-the-top and offensive - including the skewering of such figures who have been friendly to Parker and Stone, such as George Clooney and Michael Moore - but that's half the fun of this movie. Much of it, like in earlier Parker/Stone efforts, is the music, which parodies every single musical form, from the hard rock anthem to - I kid you not - a song that simultaneously insults the Ben Affleck abomination Pearl Harbor and declares undying love to another person.
The Bush administration has publicly scolded this movie for not taking terrorism seriously - I suggest that, before you go to vote, you see this movie. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will see two puppets do obscene things to each other onscreen.
October 22, 2004
October 21, 2004
Sick Thoughts
These are thoughts that I am having while I am sick, i.e., not feeling well. (I know, I know, the title is misleading...)
Thank God I only have a full day today and a half-day training tomorrow - this weekend is going to be mostly rest, relaxation, soup, and Marx Brothers.
- After reading Identity Crisis # 5, all I have to say is...huh?
- Thanks to Mike at Progressive Ruin, interest in one of my
favorite characters has been revived - I think a quote from Cat in Red Dwarf summarizes how I feel physically:
"I don't wanna live...somebody shoot me in the head
Thank God I only have a full day today and a half-day training tomorrow - this weekend is going to be mostly rest, relaxation, soup, and Marx Brothers.
October 20, 2004
Farenheit 9/11 on DVD
I really did not want to like this movie.
After all the release-era hype, the endless mugging and egotistical preening by Michael Moore, the spirit of "ya gotta see this", the back-and-forth as to whether it's completely accurate...I had gotten sick of the movie before I actually saw it. If it weren't for the fact that I called in sick (I believe I have the cold/flu bug which my co-workers are passing around), I probably would have not even bothered to watch it in one sitting. I wanted so hard to despise this movie, to fling it out of my DVD player and say, "It's just like E.T. - overrated, overamped juvenile crap." (And I had that opinion of E.T. when it first came out)
But I did...and I enjoyed it. To paraphrase Public Enemy, you should believe the hype - this is a movie that asks some very uncomfortable questions, and does so in an unusual way. In fact, the typical Moore antics presented in this movie (reading the Patriot Act in an ice cream truck, soliciting Congressmen to send their children to Iraq) seem out-of-place, and I mean that as a compliment. (And Brent, I'm sorry, but I disagree about Moore being the new Groucho Marx - not only is Moore not as funny, but Groucho was never as partisan as Moore).
This is a movie that moves from alleged business misdealings of our current president to soldiers on the front line in Iraq to increased business opportunities, and moves seamlessly. (Tarantino was right - this gained the prize due to its craft, not its content). This movie makes some unsavory parallels, and suggests that our current "war on terror" is nothing more than a massive cover-up and opportunity for money-making by friends of the current administration. The extra materials on the DVD help support this, including the infamous "post-conference" interview after Bush & Cheney met with the 9/11 Commission.
One scene close to the end of the movie - which Moore could not have staged if he tried - helps encapsulate the current mood of the country. Two mothers from opposite ends of the globe meet, and while they make a connection, a third woman yells, "This is staged, this isn't true." When one of the women - who has suffered greatly due to the "war" - confronts the disruptive woman, she receives a response of "Blame the Al-Quaeda."
Reminds me of "The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street" episode of The Twilight Zone
If you are a liberal, you should see this film if only to confirm your worst fears
If you are a conservative, even if you think this film is full of lies, at least you will know what the opposition is thinking.
If you are undecided, this film will help you decide one way or another.
And please - no flames about how I'm a commie pinko liberal; I've known that for years.
After all the release-era hype, the endless mugging and egotistical preening by Michael Moore, the spirit of "ya gotta see this", the back-and-forth as to whether it's completely accurate...I had gotten sick of the movie before I actually saw it. If it weren't for the fact that I called in sick (I believe I have the cold/flu bug which my co-workers are passing around), I probably would have not even bothered to watch it in one sitting. I wanted so hard to despise this movie, to fling it out of my DVD player and say, "It's just like E.T. - overrated, overamped juvenile crap." (And I had that opinion of E.T. when it first came out)
But I did...and I enjoyed it. To paraphrase Public Enemy, you should believe the hype - this is a movie that asks some very uncomfortable questions, and does so in an unusual way. In fact, the typical Moore antics presented in this movie (reading the Patriot Act in an ice cream truck, soliciting Congressmen to send their children to Iraq) seem out-of-place, and I mean that as a compliment. (And Brent, I'm sorry, but I disagree about Moore being the new Groucho Marx - not only is Moore not as funny, but Groucho was never as partisan as Moore).
This is a movie that moves from alleged business misdealings of our current president to soldiers on the front line in Iraq to increased business opportunities, and moves seamlessly. (Tarantino was right - this gained the prize due to its craft, not its content). This movie makes some unsavory parallels, and suggests that our current "war on terror" is nothing more than a massive cover-up and opportunity for money-making by friends of the current administration. The extra materials on the DVD help support this, including the infamous "post-conference" interview after Bush & Cheney met with the 9/11 Commission.
One scene close to the end of the movie - which Moore could not have staged if he tried - helps encapsulate the current mood of the country. Two mothers from opposite ends of the globe meet, and while they make a connection, a third woman yells, "This is staged, this isn't true." When one of the women - who has suffered greatly due to the "war" - confronts the disruptive woman, she receives a response of "Blame the Al-Quaeda."
Reminds me of "The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street" episode of The Twilight Zone
If you are a liberal, you should see this film if only to confirm your worst fears
If you are a conservative, even if you think this film is full of lies, at least you will know what the opposition is thinking.
If you are undecided, this film will help you decide one way or another.
And please - no flames about how I'm a commie pinko liberal; I've known that for years.
October 19, 2004
Decisions, Decisions....
Since IE ate my previous, long-winded post (which I'll have to redo from scratch), here's my shorter, to-the-point question:
What should I dress up for this Halloween? My choices include
Thanks!
What should I dress up for this Halloween? My choices include
- Batman (either beyond or current - I have the cowl)
- Triumph, the Insult Comic Dog
- Golden Age Sandman
Thanks!
October 17, 2004
Iron Bladder Joe
This is strictly "for a laugh" - the ignition on my car gave out, and I spent half the day waiting for AAA to arrive. (Unfortunately, I thought it was a key problem - don't blame them).
However, rather than rehashing the whole Green Arrow/Judd Winnick hubbub, I hereby present a piece first written for the Prodigy Comedy Community - it's a cheap laugh, and funnier than anything John Byrne has written.
Thanks for reading!
------------------------------------------
The Ballad of Iron Bladder Joe
Here's a story you may not know well
About a super tough guy who was really swell
He was a person you might call a hero
Let me tell you the legend of Iron Bladder Joe
To tell you his talent, well, I could not spoil it,
He could go for days without needing to use the toilet
He drove a train non-stop from Tampa to Juneau
His engineer friends nicknamed him....Iron Bladder Joe
Well he drove that train for miles in places spotty
Yet never once would he need a potty
He had a pet monkey which he named Geraldo
Who was fed his bananas...by Iron Bladder Joe
He loved a woman named Betty Sue Crapper
His talents, as such, well, they did not flap her
She was his woman and he was her beau
There were no lonely weekends for Iron Bladder Joe
On the Rocky Mountain Line he was the ultimate chief
But come bathroom time, he would feel great relief
For hours and hours he'd let his wee wee flow
Then a smile came quickly for Iron Bladder Joe
Joe once went so long in the heat of the son,
And also went so hard he formed the Grand Canyon
Many men tried to beat him, but all could not do so
So no one really challenged Iron Bladder Joe
I'm finishing up on this really neat story,
As we say around these parts, "No Guts, No Glory"
We thank you for coming and enjoying our brief show
Now go and tell your friends about...Iron Bladder Joe
However, rather than rehashing the whole Green Arrow/Judd Winnick hubbub, I hereby present a piece first written for the Prodigy Comedy Community - it's a cheap laugh, and funnier than anything John Byrne has written.
Thanks for reading!
------------------------------------------
The Ballad of Iron Bladder Joe
Here's a story you may not know well
About a super tough guy who was really swell
He was a person you might call a hero
Let me tell you the legend of Iron Bladder Joe
To tell you his talent, well, I could not spoil it,
He could go for days without needing to use the toilet
He drove a train non-stop from Tampa to Juneau
His engineer friends nicknamed him....Iron Bladder Joe
Well he drove that train for miles in places spotty
Yet never once would he need a potty
He had a pet monkey which he named Geraldo
Who was fed his bananas...by Iron Bladder Joe
He loved a woman named Betty Sue Crapper
His talents, as such, well, they did not flap her
She was his woman and he was her beau
There were no lonely weekends for Iron Bladder Joe
On the Rocky Mountain Line he was the ultimate chief
But come bathroom time, he would feel great relief
For hours and hours he'd let his wee wee flow
Then a smile came quickly for Iron Bladder Joe
Joe once went so long in the heat of the son,
And also went so hard he formed the Grand Canyon
Many men tried to beat him, but all could not do so
So no one really challenged Iron Bladder Joe
I'm finishing up on this really neat story,
As we say around these parts, "No Guts, No Glory"
We thank you for coming and enjoying our brief show
Now go and tell your friends about...Iron Bladder Joe
October 15, 2004
Comic Twists
Yes, friends, I've picked up my comic stash for this week (that and my semi-regular copy of Doctor Who Monthly), and I have to say that three comics this week provided some twists...two of which came out of nowhere, and which I heartily recommend.
Powers # 5 - why is it the writing on this is so great, yet on Bendis' other books, is incredibly lame? (The only non-Powers work that did it for me was the late, lamented Alias). Maybe it's because these are Bendis' creations, and he may feel more protective of them...I don't know. But I swear, the last few pages are sheer brilliance...
JSA # 66 - Even in ending an arc, there's a 3/4-of-an-issue twist that, quite frankly, I wouldn't expect...but makes a heck of a lot of sense. It's great that least one continuity mistake was cleared up, another arc is being set up...and Jakeem Thunder proves that it's not cool to cheat.
Sentimental favorite, obviously, but one nonetheless.
Green Arrow # 43 - Yes, this is the issue getting the media coverage (couldn't find the Yahoo link - sorry). It might have been more of a shocker if it hadn't come after a relatively by-the-numbers story. (Hey, it's my opinion).
I will definitely have to post on all the rhubard (although my sentiments lay in what Dorian concluded), but here's a little preview:
I would like to thank many individuals for their responses, and to make it easier for them, I will mail them my blog on Winnick written on big paper in crayon, in words of less than one syllable.
Hoo, boy, I am not finished with this one, folks.
Powers # 5 - why is it the writing on this is so great, yet on Bendis' other books, is incredibly lame? (The only non-Powers work that did it for me was the late, lamented Alias). Maybe it's because these are Bendis' creations, and he may feel more protective of them...I don't know. But I swear, the last few pages are sheer brilliance...
JSA # 66 - Even in ending an arc, there's a 3/4-of-an-issue twist that, quite frankly, I wouldn't expect...but makes a heck of a lot of sense. It's great that least one continuity mistake was cleared up, another arc is being set up...and Jakeem Thunder proves that it's not cool to cheat.
Sentimental favorite, obviously, but one nonetheless.
Green Arrow # 43 - Yes, this is the issue getting the media coverage (couldn't find the Yahoo link - sorry). It might have been more of a shocker if it hadn't come after a relatively by-the-numbers story. (Hey, it's my opinion).
I will definitely have to post on all the rhubard (although my sentiments lay in what Dorian concluded), but here's a little preview:
I would like to thank many individuals for their responses, and to make it easier for them, I will mail them my blog on Winnick written on big paper in crayon, in words of less than one syllable.
Hoo, boy, I am not finished with this one, folks.
October 14, 2004
Wacky Schtick Up the Yin-Yang
Cable Access in Chicago in the late 1990's was...well, unique. Programming ranged from the sublime (Comics Explored, a Siskel-and-Ebert-esque take on comics with a guy who looked suspiciously like Mike Sterling) to the ridiculous (Models on Parade, which featured attractive, scantily clad young women dancing. That's it).
And then, there's We're Geniuses in France, which is a sketch comedy show unlike any other. Imagine Ernie Kovacs doing a show for HBO on an SCTV-esque budget, and you'll get a slight taste of this half-hour comedy. I had written about it previously, both on my now relatively out-of-date fanboy page, as well as when I was grand poobah for the now-defunct SBC Prodigy Comedy Community. It's the brainchild of Dale Chapman and Tim Baker, two guys who are kind of like Ponch and Jon of CHiPS, only neither one of them is as obnoxious as Erik Estrada. (Their closest STL counterpart is Matt Sinople, only WGIF's humor is definitely R-rated, in a good way)
Recently, while browsing online, I not only came across their now-moved home page, but also read that they have - gasp - two Best of videos available. Like Pavlov's cocaine-addicted monkey, I sent my check in, hoping for the best (after all, I miss Chicago television) and expecting...at the very least, one or two nostalgic chuckles.
I popped Volume One in, and wondered...where was "Kafkaville"? The infamous George Bush/James Bond parody? Andrew Dice Hitler? Sister Mary Margaret Charo singing, "Someone's doing it doggy style, Lord, kumbaya?" But I realized...what I got was two solid hours of edgy, exciting sketch comedy...the kind of stuff that SNL used to do, that the Kids in the Hall perfected, and that Comedy Central will never, ever show on their channel.
Highlights from both tapes include - "Pulp Hasidim" (pretty much a one-joke take on a Tarantino classic); "Scared Straight - Out of Marriage"; frequent visits from Dr. Francois Cicerelli & the Snakeman of Love; "The Ball Hawk"; vicious parodies of Radio Shack commercials, only featuring Angelina Jolie & Ryan Sandberg; and, as always, wacky shtick up the yin-yang. Volume 1 even features an "uncensored" clip, which is explained on the web site - but even uncensored, it's funny...and features footage from the Models on Parade show.
In short, for $35, you get four - count 'em, four - hours of stuff that you normally wouldn't see in the mainstream. Even for cable access, there's a polish and tightness to the sketches that helps them lose a little Ed Wood-iness. In short, Chicago's best-kept secret shouldn't be kept secret much longer. Head to their web site, purchase the videos, and encourage your kids to do the same. (Steal your kid brother's lunch money, if you have to).
You owe it to yourselves to do this. Trust me.
And then, there's We're Geniuses in France, which is a sketch comedy show unlike any other. Imagine Ernie Kovacs doing a show for HBO on an SCTV-esque budget, and you'll get a slight taste of this half-hour comedy. I had written about it previously, both on my now relatively out-of-date fanboy page, as well as when I was grand poobah for the now-defunct SBC Prodigy Comedy Community. It's the brainchild of Dale Chapman and Tim Baker, two guys who are kind of like Ponch and Jon of CHiPS, only neither one of them is as obnoxious as Erik Estrada. (Their closest STL counterpart is Matt Sinople, only WGIF's humor is definitely R-rated, in a good way)
Recently, while browsing online, I not only came across their now-moved home page, but also read that they have - gasp - two Best of videos available. Like Pavlov's cocaine-addicted monkey, I sent my check in, hoping for the best (after all, I miss Chicago television) and expecting...at the very least, one or two nostalgic chuckles.
I popped Volume One in, and wondered...where was "Kafkaville"? The infamous George Bush/James Bond parody? Andrew Dice Hitler? Sister Mary Margaret Charo singing, "Someone's doing it doggy style, Lord, kumbaya?" But I realized...what I got was two solid hours of edgy, exciting sketch comedy...the kind of stuff that SNL used to do, that the Kids in the Hall perfected, and that Comedy Central will never, ever show on their channel.
Highlights from both tapes include - "Pulp Hasidim" (pretty much a one-joke take on a Tarantino classic); "Scared Straight - Out of Marriage"; frequent visits from Dr. Francois Cicerelli & the Snakeman of Love; "The Ball Hawk"; vicious parodies of Radio Shack commercials, only featuring Angelina Jolie & Ryan Sandberg; and, as always, wacky shtick up the yin-yang. Volume 1 even features an "uncensored" clip, which is explained on the web site - but even uncensored, it's funny...and features footage from the Models on Parade show.
In short, for $35, you get four - count 'em, four - hours of stuff that you normally wouldn't see in the mainstream. Even for cable access, there's a polish and tightness to the sketches that helps them lose a little Ed Wood-iness. In short, Chicago's best-kept secret shouldn't be kept secret much longer. Head to their web site, purchase the videos, and encourage your kids to do the same. (Steal your kid brother's lunch money, if you have to).
You owe it to yourselves to do this. Trust me.
October 12, 2004
Happy Birthday Lester Dent!
Today is the birthday of Lester Dent, although he's probably better known for his creation,which is the wellspring from which most 20th century pop culture has sprung.
(Aside to my STL Homies - who's up for a road trip to LaPlata?)
(Aside to my STL Homies - who's up for a road trip to LaPlata?)
Hard for Me to Say I'm Sorry
Hey, this is what I got when I took this quiz...
(or, as Dorian might ask, "Subtext, What Subtext?")
You're a sap. Either that or it's all just a way
for you to get some ass. You might have an
illegitimate child somewhere.
What band from the 80s are you?
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(or, as Dorian might ask, "Subtext, What Subtext?")
You're a sap. Either that or it's all just a way
for you to get some ass. You might have an
illegitimate child somewhere.
What band from the 80s are you?
brought to you by Quizilla
October 11, 2004
October 10, 2004
Sliders & Spikes
They've been a staple of contemporary culture (especially in the Midwest) since 1954. They are often derided, but seem to have some nutritional value. They have been featured in a major Hollywood movie, and like their biggest competitor, have been the target of a really frivolous lawsuit. The only thing they lack is William Shatner's campy spoken word-esque treatment. I'm talking about, of course, sliders.
That's right - White Castle Sliders. Those little 45 cent hamburgers in the little cardboard boxes. They are, in my opinion, one of the highlights of American dining.
Eating one is, in itself, an experience - the slightly crumbly burger, the tangy crunch of the pickle, the crackle of onion, the soggy bun - gives it a unique texture in one's mouth. It's a mixing of flavors, and is an unconventional presentation. In a time when Hardee's has created the "Six Dollar Burger", when McDonald's is the subject of an unflattering documentary, the slider's presentation - small, affordable, in a cardboard box - remains extraordinary. (Plus, the fries are also in an long, rectangular box - no messy paper bags! According to WC, they are known as "spikes")
Affordability is also key - from enjoying them as a quick pick-me-up meal (thanks to coupons in the Chicago Sun-Times) when I was a child, to late post-party dining in college, to enjoying "crave cases" at my friends' parties, sliders have been a staple of my diet. (My slightly doughy figure serves as confirmation of this). Although I wouldn't advocate them as a regular diet staple, as far as "fast foods" go, they are great value for the money.
Finally, they are very simple - White Castle is to fast food what the Ramones were to rock music. Taking the basic ingredients, adding a slight pinch of creativity and hard work, and voila - the Platonic ideal of convenient dining. The fact that there is a White Castle cook-off confirms the versatility of the slider, and for these, we shouldn't make fun of White Castle, but praise it as a highlight of American ingenuity.
Of course, this is strictly my opinion, and am not doing this to either gain free food or even be nominated for the White Castle Hall of Fame, but if either happened...I wouldn't complain.
That's right - White Castle Sliders. Those little 45 cent hamburgers in the little cardboard boxes. They are, in my opinion, one of the highlights of American dining.
Eating one is, in itself, an experience - the slightly crumbly burger, the tangy crunch of the pickle, the crackle of onion, the soggy bun - gives it a unique texture in one's mouth. It's a mixing of flavors, and is an unconventional presentation. In a time when Hardee's has created the "Six Dollar Burger", when McDonald's is the subject of an unflattering documentary, the slider's presentation - small, affordable, in a cardboard box - remains extraordinary. (Plus, the fries are also in an long, rectangular box - no messy paper bags! According to WC, they are known as "spikes")
Affordability is also key - from enjoying them as a quick pick-me-up meal (thanks to coupons in the Chicago Sun-Times) when I was a child, to late post-party dining in college, to enjoying "crave cases" at my friends' parties, sliders have been a staple of my diet. (My slightly doughy figure serves as confirmation of this). Although I wouldn't advocate them as a regular diet staple, as far as "fast foods" go, they are great value for the money.
Finally, they are very simple - White Castle is to fast food what the Ramones were to rock music. Taking the basic ingredients, adding a slight pinch of creativity and hard work, and voila - the Platonic ideal of convenient dining. The fact that there is a White Castle cook-off confirms the versatility of the slider, and for these, we shouldn't make fun of White Castle, but praise it as a highlight of American ingenuity.
Of course, this is strictly my opinion, and am not doing this to either gain free food or even be nominated for the White Castle Hall of Fame, but if either happened...I wouldn't complain.
October 9, 2004
Whadda Week!
This week has been a real blur - a trip to Jefferson City for a mandatory meeting, tons of work catch-up/project maintanence...sometimes, I wish that I were cloned. Might help me get things done...so, in that spirit, some random unconnected thoughts...
Tonight, it's MCing a fundraiser, then heading to a friend's birthday party. My mojo's fully working, and I'm digging the down time.
- I enjoyed New Frontier # 6 - indeed, I dug the whole series...but did it have to be so frickin' long? It doesn't live up to all the hype (what can?), and it's mostly an Elseworlds series (since it lies outside of continuity), but couldn't it have been two issues shorter?
- Thanks to this article on the Doom Patrol, not only was I reminded of why I dug the series so much in my younger days, but it also helps explain why John Byrne's "reboot" leaves me cold. (Thank God for DC's Archive series).
- You know, if I weren't a counselor/community dude, I would to be one of those CSI/forensic guys, if only because I know way too much useless information...
- Why is it that I find every episode of The Office extremely funny, yet all but one episode of Sealab 2021 extremely lame?
- Thankfully, I'm all signed up to volunteer for the St. Louis International Film Festival through Cinema St. Louis Prepare for some massive bloggin' on some cool films, people.
- Added a few blogs in my blogroller, including one from a woman who really likes falafel and another from a semi-Internet celebrity.
- Re: the infamous Amazing Spider-Man # 512...I'm come to expect that from a guy who, in an episode of Babylon 5, posited that the only reason we go into space is that our icons will be forgotten and that we want to be remembered. (And to be completely fair, I like JMS' work when it's really good; when it's bad, it's...mediocre).
Tonight, it's MCing a fundraiser, then heading to a friend's birthday party. My mojo's fully working, and I'm digging the down time.
October 5, 2004
Linking Policy & Huge Favor
First, in the spirit of Boing Boing's linking policy, you can only link if you send me your credit card and PIN numbers, a pint of blood, and all the Marx Brothers' movies on DVD.
(Actually, link to your heart's connect - all these people did! And they suffered no ill effects!
Also, if you know of anyone who lives in Ballwin, MO, please let me know ASAP. We're doing some legislative work, and need constituents!
(Actually, link to your heart's connect - all these people did! And they suffered no ill effects!
Also, if you know of anyone who lives in Ballwin, MO, please let me know ASAP. We're doing some legislative work, and need constituents!
Office Under Siege: Part Deux
My office has been held under siege for the past week...all due to new carpeting.
That's right - the landlords at our office looked kindly upon us, and allowed my employer the opportunity to redo the carpeting in our "common areas" (hallway, reception area, and lunch room). Which has meant that, for the past few weeks, I have been "Fetch and Carry Boy". Yes, being the only strapping male in the building, I get stuck with the heavy lifting. But enough self-pity.
One of the interesting things that happened was, in one of our libraries, asbestos tile was located. That's right - asbestos, which upon inhaling, causes one potential harmful side effects, including an unhealthy obsession with Gilbert Gottfried. Our executive director made his rounds last week, informing everyone that we were well below the safety thresholds, and that, at most, we would suffer under the delusion that we were Paul Lynde.
Anyway, the vacuums are a blazin', and they're laying down new carpeting, which is a nice, dark, gray-and-magenta number. However, it also means dust (which bothers my allergies), loud noises, a lack of privacy (my door's been removed - bloody peasants!), and all-out wackiness.
Thank God I am out of the office most of this week anyway...but I'm grateful. I have one of the nicer offices in the building, my computer's OK, and I saw End of the Century, the Citizen Kane of documentaries about the Ramones. I mean, let's face it, any film that mentions that Dee Dee lost the singer gig because "he couldn't sing and play bass at the same time" is an instant classic.
Later, dudes (and dudettes!)
That's right - the landlords at our office looked kindly upon us, and allowed my employer the opportunity to redo the carpeting in our "common areas" (hallway, reception area, and lunch room). Which has meant that, for the past few weeks, I have been "Fetch and Carry Boy". Yes, being the only strapping male in the building, I get stuck with the heavy lifting. But enough self-pity.
One of the interesting things that happened was, in one of our libraries, asbestos tile was located. That's right - asbestos, which upon inhaling, causes one potential harmful side effects, including an unhealthy obsession with Gilbert Gottfried. Our executive director made his rounds last week, informing everyone that we were well below the safety thresholds, and that, at most, we would suffer under the delusion that we were Paul Lynde.
Anyway, the vacuums are a blazin', and they're laying down new carpeting, which is a nice, dark, gray-and-magenta number. However, it also means dust (which bothers my allergies), loud noises, a lack of privacy (my door's been removed - bloody peasants!), and all-out wackiness.
Thank God I am out of the office most of this week anyway...but I'm grateful. I have one of the nicer offices in the building, my computer's OK, and I saw End of the Century, the Citizen Kane of documentaries about the Ramones. I mean, let's face it, any film that mentions that Dee Dee lost the singer gig because "he couldn't sing and play bass at the same time" is an instant classic.
Later, dudes (and dudettes!)
October 4, 2004
Not From Miss Cleo
Why am I not surprised?
You are the Hermit card. The Hermit has chosen a solitary spiritual path. He shines light on his inner self and, by this means, gains wisdom. The Hermit's home is the natural world and it is by being in tune with that world that he learns the laws of nature and learn how they operate within himself. His path is a lonely one as he lives in silence and has for companionship only his own internal rhythms.
But those crossing his path are touched by his light and wisdom. Though often alone, he manages nevertheless to instruct those who meet him and guides those who chose to follow him on a path towards enlightenment. Image from The Aleister Crowley Tarot deck.
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/thoth/
Which Tarot Card Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
You are the Hermit card. The Hermit has chosen a solitary spiritual path. He shines light on his inner self and, by this means, gains wisdom. The Hermit's home is the natural world and it is by being in tune with that world that he learns the laws of nature and learn how they operate within himself. His path is a lonely one as he lives in silence and has for companionship only his own internal rhythms.
But those crossing his path are touched by his light and wisdom. Though often alone, he manages nevertheless to instruct those who meet him and guides those who chose to follow him on a path towards enlightenment. Image from The Aleister Crowley Tarot deck.
http://www.aeclectic.net/tarot/thoth/
Which Tarot Card Are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
October 3, 2004
Welcome Home, Mom!
Just a post for my mother, who is getting back from the hospital on Monday. She had gastro-something which I can't spell.
Anyway, just for her, pictures of kitties from one of my favorite blogs.
Enjoy!
Anyway, just for her, pictures of kitties from one of my favorite blogs.
Enjoy!
October 2, 2004
Random Thoughts on A Saturday Night
Long day - had to work late in Chesterfield last night (luckily, it was proof positive the kids aren't into the whole "loud-guitar-and-headbanging" music scene); got a call that my mom's in the hospital with some gastrointestinal something-or-other; then, had to work an event in northern Jefferson County. Tomorrow will be calling Mom to make sure she's all right, another call to my cousin, and seeing Ramones: End of the Century at the Tivoli (where I recently saw Shaun of the Dead)
Anyway, onto some random thoughts before bedtime...
Right now, In Search of the Trojan War is playing on my DVD - being the mythology/history geek that I am (which resulted from my being a comic geek), it is six hours of sheer heaven.
Is it just me, or is DC: The New Frontier the mini-series that seemed suggested at the end of James Robinson's Golden Age?
OK, Mike's obsession with Swamp Thing is one thing; however, Comic Treadmill has gone too far. I mean, cheesy sixties tunes about the Justice League? I mean, OK, they sent me a kewl invite for Gmail...but guys, you need rehab, quick. I'll have to consult with Polite Dissent, so that I don't make any mistakes.
Just read Mike Waid's "Unthinkable" arc in Fantastic Four: loved the "take" on Dr. Doom, but why was I so...underwhelmed at the end?
Thank God for small favors - you can buy the Marx Brothers' A Night at the Opera and A Day At the Races outside of the Warners' boxed set. Why waste money when those two movies are their MGM masterpieces?
Also caught that the newest Doctor Who DVDs - for Earthshock and Pyramids of Mars - were just released. You know, if my landlord wasn't so particular about me paying rent....
I may have mentioned this before - my favorite Chicago cable access show, We're Geniuses in France, has released two best-of tapes. Now, if only episodes of Svengoolie were commercially available...(and to my St. Louis homies - no, I ain't planning on moving anytime soon)
This week - more meetings, a pal's birthday, and I begin a cool pop culture class. Stay tuned, kids!
Anyway, onto some random thoughts before bedtime...
Right now, In Search of the Trojan War is playing on my DVD - being the mythology/history geek that I am (which resulted from my being a comic geek), it is six hours of sheer heaven.
Is it just me, or is DC: The New Frontier the mini-series that seemed suggested at the end of James Robinson's Golden Age?
OK, Mike's obsession with Swamp Thing is one thing; however, Comic Treadmill has gone too far. I mean, cheesy sixties tunes about the Justice League? I mean, OK, they sent me a kewl invite for Gmail...but guys, you need rehab, quick. I'll have to consult with Polite Dissent, so that I don't make any mistakes.
Just read Mike Waid's "Unthinkable" arc in Fantastic Four: loved the "take" on Dr. Doom, but why was I so...underwhelmed at the end?
Thank God for small favors - you can buy the Marx Brothers' A Night at the Opera and A Day At the Races outside of the Warners' boxed set. Why waste money when those two movies are their MGM masterpieces?
Also caught that the newest Doctor Who DVDs - for Earthshock and Pyramids of Mars - were just released. You know, if my landlord wasn't so particular about me paying rent....
I may have mentioned this before - my favorite Chicago cable access show, We're Geniuses in France, has released two best-of tapes. Now, if only episodes of Svengoolie were commercially available...(and to my St. Louis homies - no, I ain't planning on moving anytime soon)
This week - more meetings, a pal's birthday, and I begin a cool pop culture class. Stay tuned, kids!
October 1, 2004
Bad Movies Galore
I'm crashing right now - a one-day trip to Jefferson City, followed by a run-in with my pal Brian (who was at my comic shop trying to find the infamous Cherry Poptart/Strawberry Shortcake crossover hardcover, plus trying to deal with a one-day rally for middle school students this morning (including a futile attempt to sway two bus drivers from moving their buses)...at times, it felt like a bad movie, so I thought, hey, why not write about bad movies.
First, I think we owe Joel Schumacher a small apology - even though he's blamed for "ruining" the Batman movie franchise, the seeds were sown (in my opinion) by Tim Burton in Batman Returns Yes, it has its strengths - basically Michelle Pfeiffer and Michael Keaton's performances - but all-in-all, Mr. Burton gave the ingredients for Mr. Schumaker to exploit. It's all there: over-the-top performances (both Christopher Walken as William Hartnell's Doctor Who and Danny DeVito, who allegedly gained 50 pounds from chewing so much scenery); out-of-nowhere plot twists (just how did Penguin get the plans for the Batmobile - from the Internet?); and some less-than-stellar psychobabble about masks and duality...hoo, boy, and you thought the Batman comics were incomprehensible?
It's not as bad, however, as 8 Mile, the film which both started and ended rapper Eminem's career. OK, "Lose Yourself" is a great song, but that is the only good thing about this movie. Eminem stars as himself, with Brittany Murphy as the skanky love interest (and has Ms. Murphy ever starred as anything other than a skanky love interest? If not, she might want to consider changing agents) and Kim Basinger as the alcoholic mother (because every bad movie needs a dysfunctional mother figure). It's all there - the outsider who wants to get into the "predominant" culture, the good guys vs. bad guys motif...this movie is sheer cliche, from beginning to end. It also seems that Eminem has two looks - serious and the near-psychotic look, which would make him the Generation X version of Anthony Perkins. Of course, that is an insult to Mr. Perkins, and I hereby apologize to the late actor.
(And if any of Mr. Eminem's "posse" wants to "throw down", think of this - the guy was scared publicly by a frickin' rubber dog puppet. Yeah, he's somebody who intimidates me).
So, if you're tempted to rent/watch any of these movies, please don't. See something worthwhile, like Shaun of the Dead. You'll thank me for it later.
First, I think we owe Joel Schumacher a small apology - even though he's blamed for "ruining" the Batman movie franchise, the seeds were sown (in my opinion) by Tim Burton in Batman Returns Yes, it has its strengths - basically Michelle Pfeiffer and Michael Keaton's performances - but all-in-all, Mr. Burton gave the ingredients for Mr. Schumaker to exploit. It's all there: over-the-top performances (both Christopher Walken as William Hartnell's Doctor Who and Danny DeVito, who allegedly gained 50 pounds from chewing so much scenery); out-of-nowhere plot twists (just how did Penguin get the plans for the Batmobile - from the Internet?); and some less-than-stellar psychobabble about masks and duality...hoo, boy, and you thought the Batman comics were incomprehensible?
It's not as bad, however, as 8 Mile, the film which both started and ended rapper Eminem's career. OK, "Lose Yourself" is a great song, but that is the only good thing about this movie. Eminem stars as himself, with Brittany Murphy as the skanky love interest (and has Ms. Murphy ever starred as anything other than a skanky love interest? If not, she might want to consider changing agents) and Kim Basinger as the alcoholic mother (because every bad movie needs a dysfunctional mother figure). It's all there - the outsider who wants to get into the "predominant" culture, the good guys vs. bad guys motif...this movie is sheer cliche, from beginning to end. It also seems that Eminem has two looks - serious and the near-psychotic look, which would make him the Generation X version of Anthony Perkins. Of course, that is an insult to Mr. Perkins, and I hereby apologize to the late actor.
(And if any of Mr. Eminem's "posse" wants to "throw down", think of this - the guy was scared publicly by a frickin' rubber dog puppet. Yeah, he's somebody who intimidates me).
So, if you're tempted to rent/watch any of these movies, please don't. See something worthwhile, like Shaun of the Dead. You'll thank me for it later.
Political Bowling
Based on this news item, I'm going to do my best for democracy and invite my good friend Mark to a bowling match.
More news forthcoming!
More news forthcoming!
September 28, 2004
Identity Crisis - Speculation (Possible Spoilers)
Right now, I am mega-tired; lost a battle for some legislation in Ballwin that I was working on (I'll probably post more when I'm not being such a sore loser; right now, I'm wishing that I was back in Chicago to watch my all-time favorite cable access show, We're Geniuses in France), so please excuse the heavy tone. In light of Comic Treadmill's theory (and this article on locked-room comic mysteries), I would give my own personal "take" on the murderer's identity. (And no, it's not Ambush Bug, despite my previous posts to the contrary
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
P
A
C
E
Anyway, what we have, on the face of it, is
Although some people may suggest Captain Boomerang, I think he's being set up. By whom? I'm opting for a "conspiracy" between the Calculator and Merlyn.
Both of them have the most to gain - Calculator by becoming the Oracle of the criminal world; Merlyn by gaining the reputation as the "world's greatest assassin", or some title. (Calculator was pushing Boomerang to "meet" his son, if you will - I will have to reread issue 1, but Boomerang seems extremely reluctant to connect with his flesh and blood). In addition, keeping the criminal set "on edge" would allow them to gain superiority - after all, the best way to solve a crisis is to start it yourself. Here's how I'm seeing this work:
Calculator - gains information about various security systems (as Mr. Miracle stated, there are 17 ways to break in without a Mother Box); could put critical personal information together (like a UFO landing with a birth notice following); has pretty much set himself up as the go-to person for information (see issue # 1 - he had sent Bolt for the shipment in Opal City); could have set up surveillance in JL headquarters they same way it was set up (and countered) in the old Injustice League satellite; could possibly find information in hard-to-locate areas, and anti-hacking laws would not stop him (for Suicide Squad information).
Merlyn - has the "real" expertise in assassination; would be able to make it "look" like another criminal performed the murders; is telling his compatriots to "tone it down" (see # 4) yet benefits (a three grand job with the Fiddler); was present when Dr. Light "appeared" in issue 2; although primarily an archer, might be willing to "diversify".
Is this a perfect theory? Heck, no, and I'm more than willing to hear others' comments. (And just for the record - I am not related, nor have a relationship with Brad Meltzer, so if I'm right, it's purely through my own thinking). At the very least, it's a fun little distraction for me...at least, until I drive down to lovely, scenic Jefferson City MO tomorrow for a training.
S
P
O
I
L
E
R
S
P
A
C
E
Anyway, what we have, on the face of it, is
- an indiviual who can bypass security systems;
- someone with the ability to access information about our heroes (hence the ending of # 4)
- Someone with a perceived "grudge" against the Satellite era JL
- someone who has/can gain access to classified info on the Suicide Squad; and
- someone we've seen in the series so far (so no surprise Despero moves(
Although some people may suggest Captain Boomerang, I think he's being set up. By whom? I'm opting for a "conspiracy" between the Calculator and Merlyn.
Both of them have the most to gain - Calculator by becoming the Oracle of the criminal world; Merlyn by gaining the reputation as the "world's greatest assassin", or some title. (Calculator was pushing Boomerang to "meet" his son, if you will - I will have to reread issue 1, but Boomerang seems extremely reluctant to connect with his flesh and blood). In addition, keeping the criminal set "on edge" would allow them to gain superiority - after all, the best way to solve a crisis is to start it yourself. Here's how I'm seeing this work:
Calculator - gains information about various security systems (as Mr. Miracle stated, there are 17 ways to break in without a Mother Box); could put critical personal information together (like a UFO landing with a birth notice following); has pretty much set himself up as the go-to person for information (see issue # 1 - he had sent Bolt for the shipment in Opal City); could have set up surveillance in JL headquarters they same way it was set up (and countered) in the old Injustice League satellite; could possibly find information in hard-to-locate areas, and anti-hacking laws would not stop him (for Suicide Squad information).
Merlyn - has the "real" expertise in assassination; would be able to make it "look" like another criminal performed the murders; is telling his compatriots to "tone it down" (see # 4) yet benefits (a three grand job with the Fiddler); was present when Dr. Light "appeared" in issue 2; although primarily an archer, might be willing to "diversify".
Is this a perfect theory? Heck, no, and I'm more than willing to hear others' comments. (And just for the record - I am not related, nor have a relationship with Brad Meltzer, so if I'm right, it's purely through my own thinking). At the very least, it's a fun little distraction for me...at least, until I drive down to lovely, scenic Jefferson City MO tomorrow for a training.
September 25, 2004
Question Memes & Holy Clues
First, it's the blogging sensation sweeping the nation - it's all about the memes, kids. Ask me five questions - any five questions - and I will answer them. (Thanks to Yet Another Comics Blog for letting me plagiarize this idea).
Also, if you're looking for a great, easy, thought-provoking non comic-book to read, try Holy Clues by Stephen Kendrick. The subtitle is "The Gospel According to Sherlock Holmes". It's a very easy read (under 200 pages!), is extremely insightful, and makes all that time I spent reading "The Boys' Sherlock Holmes" as a kid worthwhile. (It's also tempting me to crack open the "Complete Sherlock Holmes" set an ex-girlfriend game me one Christmas to revisit those stories). Highly recommended.
Also, if you're looking for a great, easy, thought-provoking non comic-book to read, try Holy Clues by Stephen Kendrick. The subtitle is "The Gospel According to Sherlock Holmes". It's a very easy read (under 200 pages!), is extremely insightful, and makes all that time I spent reading "The Boys' Sherlock Holmes" as a kid worthwhile. (It's also tempting me to crack open the "Complete Sherlock Holmes" set an ex-girlfriend game me one Christmas to revisit those stories). Highly recommended.
September 24, 2004
New Blogroll Entries!
Just look along the right side of this blog - you'll find that I'm always adding and subtracting blogs, mostly to highlight stuff I enjoy reading, but mostly because I'm too lazy to bookmark stuff. Recent entries include:
Psychbloke - actually came across this site by accident; it's some really good reading, and is probably the closest I will find to a British version of me.
Yet Another Comics Blog - This has some excellent comics-related writing.
Tom The Dog's You Know What I Like - Yes, we do, thanks to this blog.
Brill Building - I love this guy's sense of humor. Plus, he posted a really sexy picture of Diana Rigg, so he deserves something for his efforts.
Something Old Nothing New - A strong mixture of pop and high culture. You owe it to yourself to read this.
But hey, just click on one of the links of the blogroll - you'll thank me for it later.
Psychbloke - actually came across this site by accident; it's some really good reading, and is probably the closest I will find to a British version of me.
Yet Another Comics Blog - This has some excellent comics-related writing.
Tom The Dog's You Know What I Like - Yes, we do, thanks to this blog.
Brill Building - I love this guy's sense of humor. Plus, he posted a really sexy picture of Diana Rigg, so he deserves something for his efforts.
Something Old Nothing New - A strong mixture of pop and high culture. You owe it to yourself to read this.
But hey, just click on one of the links of the blogroll - you'll thank me for it later.
Comp Day Thoughts
Today is comp day - my employer allows us to take time off if we work over a certain amount of time; luckily, today I can sit, drink a lot of coffee, and just blog some random thoughts, mostly comic related:
Yeah, it's cool being me - so what?
- If I didn't know better, I would swear that Avengers Disassembled was a parody of Bendis' writing...which is sad, because Bendis is writing it.
- Mike at Progressive Ruin noticed an in-continuity reference to a pre John Byrne Doom Patrol story. Here's something even better - check out Identity Crisis # 4, page 1, panel 2 - check the smaller headline in Persons magazine.
I suspect that the John Byrne Doom Patrol is nothing more than a tax write-off for DC. - Speaking of DC, why do I have the sneaking suspicion that the ending of the JSA: Strange Adventures storyline will suggest that the whole thing is a "story" by Johnny Thunder...which is then rejected by the pulps as being too "far-fetched". Or am I being needlessly cynical?
- Finally caught the Busiek CSA story in JLA Secret Files & Origins, and for some reason, really want to see the Crime Sydicate version of Aquaman. Now that would totally rock!
- Random thought - after seeing 8 Mile with Eminem, I can only conclude...that if Mystery Science Theater 3000 was still on the air, it would feature that film within five years
- After checking out the reviews on Laura's blog, I bit the bullet and downloaded Firefox. Finally, a browser that combines the best of Internet Explorer (namely, the menus) with the tabbing of Mozilla without the security problems of the former or the bloat of the latter. It's now my new default browser, and I can do more silly stuff online in less time. I'm sold!
Yeah, it's cool being me - so what?
September 22, 2004
Byrne-d Himself
You know, I didn't realize how ironic my last post was until...
I always liked John Byrne - his runs on X-Men, Fantasic Four, Superman...heck, I even dug his Generations Elseworlds series. Sure, I think his recent writing is lacking (although his art still rocks), but like many other comic bloggers (including Dorian, Mike, and Ian), I found Mr. Byrne's recent comments about my future ex-wife, Jessica Alba, a little disconcerting.
(Ok, the "ex-wife" crack was in poor taste - my apologies. I just think she's gorgeous, regardless of her hair color)
Never mind the controversy about pulled posts from his message boards - there are just some times when you have to back away from the keyboard, think about what you are going to say, and consider whether it's worth putting out there. It's not PC to expect some intelligence and thought to go into comments - it's just good sense, especially in a debate.
My personal opinion - hey, if I don't like the idea of a multi-racial Fantastic Four movie, I can opt not to see it. I can always turn to the original comics(like James M. Cain once said, Hollywood hasn't ruined his books - they'll always be on the shelf, ready for the next reader), but don't modern times almost require a little outside-of-the-box thinking? It's not PC for our movies to push for diverse casting - it's just smart marketing sense.
Although the first idiot to suggest Pauly Shore as Willy Lumpkin will get a major - I mean major - pounding. Free of charge.
I always liked John Byrne - his runs on X-Men, Fantasic Four, Superman...heck, I even dug his Generations Elseworlds series. Sure, I think his recent writing is lacking (although his art still rocks), but like many other comic bloggers (including Dorian, Mike, and Ian), I found Mr. Byrne's recent comments about my future ex-wife, Jessica Alba, a little disconcerting.
(Ok, the "ex-wife" crack was in poor taste - my apologies. I just think she's gorgeous, regardless of her hair color)
Never mind the controversy about pulled posts from his message boards - there are just some times when you have to back away from the keyboard, think about what you are going to say, and consider whether it's worth putting out there. It's not PC to expect some intelligence and thought to go into comments - it's just good sense, especially in a debate.
My personal opinion - hey, if I don't like the idea of a multi-racial Fantastic Four movie, I can opt not to see it. I can always turn to the original comics(like James M. Cain once said, Hollywood hasn't ruined his books - they'll always be on the shelf, ready for the next reader), but don't modern times almost require a little outside-of-the-box thinking? It's not PC for our movies to push for diverse casting - it's just smart marketing sense.
Although the first idiot to suggest Pauly Shore as Willy Lumpkin will get a major - I mean major - pounding. Free of charge.
Cue Maniacal Laughter
Maybe it's the kind of week I've had - I've been going non-stop for the last eight days, including:
- Two, count 'em, two city council meetings (about 50 miles apart from each other);
- A two-day trip to Jefferson city for a training (where I saw Shrek 2 for free and caught the infamous "I'm Rick James, Bitch" episode of Chapelle Show;
- Last Wednesday's Cardinals game against the Astros (for work);
- A last-minute trek to Lincoln County;
- Various meetings;
- Winning second place at a Trivia Night;
- Working the beverage cart at a golf tournament for Boys & Girls Town;
- Attending a baseline training in Jefferson County; and
- Developing and writing workplans for my employer
However, today...something snapped. It was whilst online doing research (to break up the non-stop writing I've done) where a problem I've been dealing with...I found a solution.
It's clever - it may bring me ultimate power and success in one of my endeavors. I ran it past several colleagues, who gave me plenty of supporting evidence for it.
I'm psyched...and unfortunately, I won't be able to use the solution until Monday. I'll definitely blog in between, but Monday...if I pull this off, I will be more "da man" than I am now. I kid you not.
BWAH-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA-HA!
That felt really good.
September 20, 2004
Public Service Intervention
Dear Mike,
Recently, I caught your posts on Progressive Ruin - you know the ones, featuring Swamp Thing Merchandise.
Now, many addictions start small - the bargain DVD, the old computer games, but it builds to crisis proportions, and you soon become out of control...
Well, Mike, as a trained substance abuse counselor/community prevention specialist, I've noticed that you've sunk to pencil sharpeners and chalk...this, as we say in the biz, is "crossing the line."
There is help. There are 12 Step groups to help you break the habit. Just say the word, take the first step, and I can help.
Thanks for readin',
Gordon
(P.S. I am a trained professional, kids - don't try this at home. Drink lots of high-sugar, high caffeine cola instead)
(P.P.S. For those who are humor-challenged, please do not flame me. This is, as we say in the biz, a joke, kind of like my theory about the killer in Identity Crisis
Recently, I caught your posts on Progressive Ruin - you know the ones, featuring Swamp Thing Merchandise.
Now, many addictions start small - the bargain DVD, the old computer games, but it builds to crisis proportions, and you soon become out of control...
Well, Mike, as a trained substance abuse counselor/community prevention specialist, I've noticed that you've sunk to pencil sharpeners and chalk...this, as we say in the biz, is "crossing the line."
There is help. There are 12 Step groups to help you break the habit. Just say the word, take the first step, and I can help.
Thanks for readin',
Gordon
(P.S. I am a trained professional, kids - don't try this at home. Drink lots of high-sugar, high caffeine cola instead)
(P.P.S. For those who are humor-challenged, please do not flame me. This is, as we say in the biz, a joke, kind of like my theory about the killer in Identity Crisis
Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze?
Sometimes, a movie comes along that looks like it will follow one track, you hear some positive word-of-mouth, and then when you see it, you are knocked back by its charm, its grace, and...well, you're surprised how good it is.
Admittedly, I only saw The Girl Next Door for one reason, and one reason alone - Elisha Cuthbert. However, my expectations about this movie, especially its premise - "good guy falls in love with porn star next door" - were raised when it quickly became the Risky Business for the Generation Y set. I kid you not.
It hits all of the same points - good guy, bad girl with a heart of gold, well-meaning friends, seedy guy with interest in bad girl, questionable business venture - but instead of taking these and turning them into another teen comedy, Luke Greenfield turns it into a solid coming-of-age film.
Granted, it does have its cheap laughs - for example, Mitchell's two friends are porn-loving Eli and a guy named "Klitz". (I am not making that up, folks) However, this movie very cleverly straddles the line between comedy and drama. There are serious consequences, and there's no last minute reprises. (A crucial scene late in the movie - and the aftereffects - were extremely convincing). This movie ultimately asks whether taking huge interpersonal risks - mostly for love, but mainly in general - is worth the ultimate rewards. In other words, is the juice worth the squeeze?
A somewhat sentimental proposition in this time of moral relativism, but it does suggest that great risks are worth great rewards.
In other words, squeeze this, pal, and see for yourself.
Admittedly, I only saw The Girl Next Door for one reason, and one reason alone - Elisha Cuthbert. However, my expectations about this movie, especially its premise - "good guy falls in love with porn star next door" - were raised when it quickly became the Risky Business for the Generation Y set. I kid you not.
It hits all of the same points - good guy, bad girl with a heart of gold, well-meaning friends, seedy guy with interest in bad girl, questionable business venture - but instead of taking these and turning them into another teen comedy, Luke Greenfield turns it into a solid coming-of-age film.
Granted, it does have its cheap laughs - for example, Mitchell's two friends are porn-loving Eli and a guy named "Klitz". (I am not making that up, folks) However, this movie very cleverly straddles the line between comedy and drama. There are serious consequences, and there's no last minute reprises. (A crucial scene late in the movie - and the aftereffects - were extremely convincing). This movie ultimately asks whether taking huge interpersonal risks - mostly for love, but mainly in general - is worth the ultimate rewards. In other words, is the juice worth the squeeze?
A somewhat sentimental proposition in this time of moral relativism, but it does suggest that great risks are worth great rewards.
In other words, squeeze this, pal, and see for yourself.
September 17, 2004
Teenage Kicks
It starts off with guitars simultaneously grungy and gorgeous, over a seemingly easy-to-play riff. Then, a voice, shimmering and boyish, begins singing,
The Undertones are probably one of the greatest pop-punk bands you never heard of - their first single was released in 1978, followed by three (or four) albums of sheer brilliance: The Undertones, Hypnotized, Positive Touch, and The Sin of Pride. (I own the first three albums, but have never heard # 4). Teenage Kicks, the documentary, follows the band from their modest roots in Ireland to pop stardom to their recent semi-reunion. It seems almost like a bad version of VH-1's Behind the Music.
However, thanks to the band members' down-to-earth attitudes (and slightly tongue-in-cheek humor), it comes across as an excellent good-band-does-great story).
Documentaries should serve several purposes: education, enlightenment, entertainment, or even just showing perspectives in a new light. This documentary does that - admittedly, I came across the Undertones via their Rykodisc reissues (thanks to The Big Takeover fanzine), so I had missed them "the first time around". However, once I purchased the greatest hits (What was the Bruce McCullough line about greatest hits albums - anyone?), I immersed myself into the three albums (I didn't like the Sin of Pride tracks, but, thanks to this DVD, will give it a listen).
The Undertones' albums provide excellent nuggets (or, in their terms, "rocking humdingers") - from the all-out sound of "Teenage Kicks" (the favorite of BBC DJ John Peel to the rockin' romance of "Here Comes the Summer"; from pure pop brilliance ("Here Comes the Summer", "Jimmy Jimmy", "Tearproof", "Wednesday Week", "It's Going to Happen") to aggressive-yet-sweet songs ("Mars Bar", "You've Got My Number", "Family Entertainment", "When Saturday Comes"), the Undertones proved themselves more than just "dumb entertainment".
The biggest compliment I can give this documentary (which contains a half hour of "extended interviews" - mostly stuff they cut out, as well as videos) is that I'm planning on listening to all three albums this weekend, just to revisit and recapture the magic.
Teenage kicks all through the night, indeed.
"Are teenage dreams so hard to beat?That's how Teenage Kicks - the song by and the DVD documentary about the Undertones begins.
Every time she walks down the street,
Another girl in the neighborhood,
Wish she was mine - she looks so good"
The Undertones are probably one of the greatest pop-punk bands you never heard of - their first single was released in 1978, followed by three (or four) albums of sheer brilliance: The Undertones, Hypnotized, Positive Touch, and The Sin of Pride. (I own the first three albums, but have never heard # 4). Teenage Kicks, the documentary, follows the band from their modest roots in Ireland to pop stardom to their recent semi-reunion. It seems almost like a bad version of VH-1's Behind the Music.
However, thanks to the band members' down-to-earth attitudes (and slightly tongue-in-cheek humor), it comes across as an excellent good-band-does-great story).
Documentaries should serve several purposes: education, enlightenment, entertainment, or even just showing perspectives in a new light. This documentary does that - admittedly, I came across the Undertones via their Rykodisc reissues (thanks to The Big Takeover fanzine), so I had missed them "the first time around". However, once I purchased the greatest hits (What was the Bruce McCullough line about greatest hits albums - anyone?), I immersed myself into the three albums (I didn't like the Sin of Pride tracks, but, thanks to this DVD, will give it a listen).
The Undertones' albums provide excellent nuggets (or, in their terms, "rocking humdingers") - from the all-out sound of "Teenage Kicks" (the favorite of BBC DJ John Peel to the rockin' romance of "Here Comes the Summer"; from pure pop brilliance ("Here Comes the Summer", "Jimmy Jimmy", "Tearproof", "Wednesday Week", "It's Going to Happen") to aggressive-yet-sweet songs ("Mars Bar", "You've Got My Number", "Family Entertainment", "When Saturday Comes"), the Undertones proved themselves more than just "dumb entertainment".
The biggest compliment I can give this documentary (which contains a half hour of "extended interviews" - mostly stuff they cut out, as well as videos) is that I'm planning on listening to all three albums this weekend, just to revisit and recapture the magic.
Teenage kicks all through the night, indeed.
September 12, 2004
What Peanuts Character Are You?
Yeah, I like quizzes, so what?
You are Charlie Brown!
Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
You are Charlie Brown!
Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla
September 11, 2004
Three Years Ago Today
I was working for the Salvation Army, heading a program that provided substance abuse assessments for homeless residents in St. Louis County. It was promising to be an uneventful Tuesday - paperwork, then sponsor a training on substance abuse, followed by attending a history of pop culture in St. Louis sponsored by the (now defunct) Metropolis Forum. Nothing to suggest anything other than another ordinary day.
At about 9:45 am, it all changed. Our administrative assistant announced that she had heard over the radio that a plane crashed into the World Trade Center. Thinking that it was (most likely) a Buddy Holly special crashing into the roof, I went onto my work.
Soon afterward, the assistant returned, informing me that a plane had crashed into the Pentagon. That grabbed my attention - my cousin Rick and his (then) 4 year old daughter lived shortly outside Washington, DC. Immediately, I went to our administrator's office - partly to make copies, but mostly to hear the news over the radio.
It had a sense of unreality about it - passenger planes used to crash the World Trade Center? A crash near the Pentagon? Another crash nowhere near civilization, due to heroic efforts on the part of the passengers? I didn't want to hear the news, didn't want to believe what was happening...but it did happen. Our country was attacked in the worst, ugliest possible way. The Forum event was canceled, no one attended the training, I went home at 3:00 pm and called my family. My aunt had died two months earlier, and we were already sharing grief; this was our way to begin building anew, in the light of further tragedy.
In the days that followed, it was almost impossible to avoid the coverage on television, so I stopped watching television. Thankfully, the newspaper was my way of gathering details - a nice, digestible version of trauma that allowed me to process while proceeding. In the days that followed, the one image that sticks in my mind is Paul Simon singing "Bridge Over Troubled Waters", his voice cracking, trying to find strength in what happened to his city, his home, reminding everyone that the only real strength we have is in our common struggle. After that special, I consistently played "Peace, Love, and Understanding" by Elvis Costello. Although slightly pessimistic in tone, this verse somehow struck a chord:
Smash cut to the present: we are now in the midst of a presidential campaign that is venomous, destructive, and vindictive on both sides. Gradually, we have had our freedoms eroded in the name of "security". Everything from banning smoking in restaurants to pop culture have become life-and-death struggles - it's not enough to disagree, somebody has to win. Hate of a specific religion - and region - have asserted themselves in insidious ways. Instead of living up to the promise, America is degenerating into its own worst nightmare. That verse seems even more, not less despondent.
In these times of fragmentation and despair, of divisivness and bitterness, there is only one frightening conclusion I have, and I desperately hope that I am wrong:
"Maybe, just maybe, the terrorists have won after all..."
At about 9:45 am, it all changed. Our administrative assistant announced that she had heard over the radio that a plane crashed into the World Trade Center. Thinking that it was (most likely) a Buddy Holly special crashing into the roof, I went onto my work.
Soon afterward, the assistant returned, informing me that a plane had crashed into the Pentagon. That grabbed my attention - my cousin Rick and his (then) 4 year old daughter lived shortly outside Washington, DC. Immediately, I went to our administrator's office - partly to make copies, but mostly to hear the news over the radio.
It had a sense of unreality about it - passenger planes used to crash the World Trade Center? A crash near the Pentagon? Another crash nowhere near civilization, due to heroic efforts on the part of the passengers? I didn't want to hear the news, didn't want to believe what was happening...but it did happen. Our country was attacked in the worst, ugliest possible way. The Forum event was canceled, no one attended the training, I went home at 3:00 pm and called my family. My aunt had died two months earlier, and we were already sharing grief; this was our way to begin building anew, in the light of further tragedy.
In the days that followed, it was almost impossible to avoid the coverage on television, so I stopped watching television. Thankfully, the newspaper was my way of gathering details - a nice, digestible version of trauma that allowed me to process while proceeding. In the days that followed, the one image that sticks in my mind is Paul Simon singing "Bridge Over Troubled Waters", his voice cracking, trying to find strength in what happened to his city, his home, reminding everyone that the only real strength we have is in our common struggle. After that special, I consistently played "Peace, Love, and Understanding" by Elvis Costello. Although slightly pessimistic in tone, this verse somehow struck a chord:
And as I walked on,As time progressed, it seemed like we, as a country, were coming together with a renewed promise, the same promise that brought my ancestors to this country, a promise of inclusion, warmth, and hope. (I had lived in Springfield, OR during a series of school shootings, so I wasn't a stranger to such things). Regardless of the struggle, we would prevail, and become a stronger nation as a result. Naive, perhaps, but hopeful.
Through troubled times,
My spirit gets so downhearted, sometimes,
So where are the strong?
And who are the trusted?
And where is the harmony, sweet harmony?
Smash cut to the present: we are now in the midst of a presidential campaign that is venomous, destructive, and vindictive on both sides. Gradually, we have had our freedoms eroded in the name of "security". Everything from banning smoking in restaurants to pop culture have become life-and-death struggles - it's not enough to disagree, somebody has to win. Hate of a specific religion - and region - have asserted themselves in insidious ways. Instead of living up to the promise, America is degenerating into its own worst nightmare. That verse seems even more, not less despondent.
In these times of fragmentation and despair, of divisivness and bitterness, there is only one frightening conclusion I have, and I desperately hope that I am wrong:
"Maybe, just maybe, the terrorists have won after all..."
September 10, 2004
Be A Coffee Achiever!
This has been a very accelerated week - even in thinking about this blog, it was tempting to focus on one or two separate mini-blogs, but hey, what's a little ranting/stream-of-consciousness between friends?
First, things that I'm thinking about include:
Now, this week has been a challenge - a regular coalition meeting Tuesday night, attending a Ballwin working committee meeting Wednesday night, and St. Peters Thursday night. The latter two were, as you may know, job-related; part of my job is policy development. It's one of the few times where I feel like a geniune Superfriend, only I don't have to share a plate with Matter-Eater Lad. (I was going to make an Aquaman joke, but it might be offensive to some people). Yes, when you need to legislate, just call Gordon, Advocacy Boy!
Of course, it was the same event - people claiming that their constitutional rights were being denied, (Leading to the conclusion that "They Who Freely Quote Their Constitutional Rights Have Probably Never Read It"); portrayals of activitists as being "crusaders" or "zealots"...it reminds me of a conversation I had with a friend Monday night, who said, "Why don't some people get it?"
It's easy to demonize or insult people who do not agree with your beliefs - ranging from comics to television to politics, there are feelings on various issues. The hardest thing (which I had to do Wednesday night) was to let an opponent spew venom and not spew back, but to listen, and gently agree to disagree.
Is "my" side going to win? I don't know, and quite frankly, if we didn't, all it means is that we have learned our lesson and can move on. If we don't learn from history, we won't have history.
My agenda for this afternoon: take some comp time from work, pick up my comics from the Fantasy Shop, go home, and take a nap. Maybe even catch Trekkies 2 from Netflix.
I realize this may sound hurried - hopefully, I've made sense somewhere.
First, things that I'm thinking about include:
- Like Mike at Progressive Ruin, I wonder if we really need a Superman movie;
- Does Paris Hilton exist only to help Pauly Shore feel better about being at the bottom of the celebrity chain?; and
- Thank god the first season of Columbo is on DVD.
Now, this week has been a challenge - a regular coalition meeting Tuesday night, attending a Ballwin working committee meeting Wednesday night, and St. Peters Thursday night. The latter two were, as you may know, job-related; part of my job is policy development. It's one of the few times where I feel like a geniune Superfriend, only I don't have to share a plate with Matter-Eater Lad. (I was going to make an Aquaman joke, but it might be offensive to some people). Yes, when you need to legislate, just call Gordon, Advocacy Boy!
Of course, it was the same event - people claiming that their constitutional rights were being denied, (Leading to the conclusion that "They Who Freely Quote Their Constitutional Rights Have Probably Never Read It"); portrayals of activitists as being "crusaders" or "zealots"...it reminds me of a conversation I had with a friend Monday night, who said, "Why don't some people get it?"
It's easy to demonize or insult people who do not agree with your beliefs - ranging from comics to television to politics, there are feelings on various issues. The hardest thing (which I had to do Wednesday night) was to let an opponent spew venom and not spew back, but to listen, and gently agree to disagree.
Is "my" side going to win? I don't know, and quite frankly, if we didn't, all it means is that we have learned our lesson and can move on. If we don't learn from history, we won't have history.
My agenda for this afternoon: take some comp time from work, pick up my comics from the Fantasy Shop, go home, and take a nap. Maybe even catch Trekkies 2 from Netflix.
I realize this may sound hurried - hopefully, I've made sense somewhere.
September 7, 2004
Identity Crisis Covers & Theories
First, Brad Meltzer has posted the covers for all of the issues of Identity Crisis.
I'm not going to publicly speculate - I have some theories about the killer; however, I would rather not spoil the plot for anyone, including myself. However, in the interests of a cheap laugh, I will post the following theory:
The Identity Crisis Killer's identity can be found here
I'm not going to publicly speculate - I have some theories about the killer; however, I would rather not spoil the plot for anyone, including myself. However, in the interests of a cheap laugh, I will post the following theory:
The Identity Crisis Killer's identity can be found here
September 6, 2004
The Best Kept Secret(s) In the West
Like many others, I spent this Labor Day...getting some well-earned rest and relaxation. It was also one of those days where I wanted to do something really unnecessary. Maybe, for academic interest, watch Animal House and Old School and compare and contrast. Not wanting to exert myself that much, I decided to just chill with some old favorites...and some new ones.
First, the new - in terms of comic blogs, check out Polite Dissent and Brill Building. Although neither one is the greatest comics blog in the multiverse, they come rather close. Polite Dissent (which I had featured in a previous post) is a medically-oriented blog, alternating between comics reviews and demystifying medical matters in comics. (Just the way my uncle John took all the romance out of ER, since he is a real-life emergency room specialist). Brill Building has a slightly humorous tone, and you gotta read it if only for Ian's suggested post-Avengers 500 lineup.
Anyway, the first thing I did was crank up Passion is No Ordinary Word, Rhino's 1991 Graham Parker anthology. It's funny - I can't remember how I got into his music in high school, but I was amazed at how well his music stands up. Alternatively angry, biting, yet with an intelligence that surpasses many of his contemporaries (and, in all fairness, the last album I heard was Acid Bubblegum. In an age where Joe Jackson's hitting the oldies circuit, and Elvis Costello has become an "artiste", it's nice to hear from a man who may have lost his youth, but has regained a much sharper bark and bite.
Lunch was reading time, and I chose a book which I was first introduced to at the bargain in at the old Kroch's & Brentano's bookstore on Wabash in Chicago. (It's now a pair of high-priced perfume and soap stores). The Killer Inside Me is Jim Thompson's masterpiece - a gripping tale about a sociopathic sherrif. It's one of those books that you just can't put down once you begin - kind of like Mickey Spillane's books. Trust me, you'll dig this book.
Finally, I ended the day on a much lighthearted note - season one of the Kids in the Hall on DVD. I am a rabid KITH fan - so much so that I went to Toronto with a friend of mine to see some of their final tapings. (Be sure to head to her blog and annoy her for me). Anyway, it's great to see a young troupe begin to stretch themselves - within five years, they would have reshaped tv comedy. For now, enjoy them gradually bending the rules.
By the way, if you have never sampled anything listed above, please do. These are not the most popular, nor do they get the most attention (although, thankfully, there will be a season two KITH DVD boxed set). Dive on in - you won't be disappointed.
First, the new - in terms of comic blogs, check out Polite Dissent and Brill Building. Although neither one is the greatest comics blog in the multiverse, they come rather close. Polite Dissent (which I had featured in a previous post) is a medically-oriented blog, alternating between comics reviews and demystifying medical matters in comics. (Just the way my uncle John took all the romance out of ER, since he is a real-life emergency room specialist). Brill Building has a slightly humorous tone, and you gotta read it if only for Ian's suggested post-Avengers 500 lineup.
Anyway, the first thing I did was crank up Passion is No Ordinary Word, Rhino's 1991 Graham Parker anthology. It's funny - I can't remember how I got into his music in high school, but I was amazed at how well his music stands up. Alternatively angry, biting, yet with an intelligence that surpasses many of his contemporaries (and, in all fairness, the last album I heard was Acid Bubblegum. In an age where Joe Jackson's hitting the oldies circuit, and Elvis Costello has become an "artiste", it's nice to hear from a man who may have lost his youth, but has regained a much sharper bark and bite.
Lunch was reading time, and I chose a book which I was first introduced to at the bargain in at the old Kroch's & Brentano's bookstore on Wabash in Chicago. (It's now a pair of high-priced perfume and soap stores). The Killer Inside Me is Jim Thompson's masterpiece - a gripping tale about a sociopathic sherrif. It's one of those books that you just can't put down once you begin - kind of like Mickey Spillane's books. Trust me, you'll dig this book.
Finally, I ended the day on a much lighthearted note - season one of the Kids in the Hall on DVD. I am a rabid KITH fan - so much so that I went to Toronto with a friend of mine to see some of their final tapings. (Be sure to head to her blog and annoy her for me). Anyway, it's great to see a young troupe begin to stretch themselves - within five years, they would have reshaped tv comedy. For now, enjoy them gradually bending the rules.
By the way, if you have never sampled anything listed above, please do. These are not the most popular, nor do they get the most attention (although, thankfully, there will be a season two KITH DVD boxed set). Dive on in - you won't be disappointed.
September 5, 2004
September 4, 2004
The Love of the Fans...
Ok, now that I have a little free time before jumping back into real life....
Fan fiction is always a hit-or-miss deal, and I speak from experience. (Just Google my name and you can see real evidence). At worst, it's non-creative, slavish, and not worth the time and effort; at best, it can be creative, provide fresh insights, and allow new talent to develop.
Two great examples are from Sandy Collora, a filmmaker who made a World's Finest trailer and Batman: Dead End. The only bad thing about these films...is that they're trailers. If there was any justice in this world, Mr. Collora would be handed either franchise (although, rumor has it he has received a directoral assignment, although I could be reading Screen Rant incorrectly).
Another one is Star Trek - even in the midst of doubts about the franchise, some of the best work is done by fans. My personal favorite - Star Trek: Renaissance, which takes place in the Federation's "future". Written as teleplays, provided in PDF form, this is Trek at its finest.
Case in point: after a really rough few weeks, I came home to "read" the episode Shadows of a New Dawn. (They even have a primer for newbies). This is probably one of the best pieces of writing (never mind television writing - or Trek Writing) that I have come across in a long time:
Fan fiction is always a hit-or-miss deal, and I speak from experience. (Just Google my name and you can see real evidence). At worst, it's non-creative, slavish, and not worth the time and effort; at best, it can be creative, provide fresh insights, and allow new talent to develop.
Two great examples are from Sandy Collora, a filmmaker who made a World's Finest trailer and Batman: Dead End. The only bad thing about these films...is that they're trailers. If there was any justice in this world, Mr. Collora would be handed either franchise (although, rumor has it he has received a directoral assignment, although I could be reading Screen Rant incorrectly).
Another one is Star Trek - even in the midst of doubts about the franchise, some of the best work is done by fans. My personal favorite - Star Trek: Renaissance, which takes place in the Federation's "future". Written as teleplays, provided in PDF form, this is Trek at its finest.
Case in point: after a really rough few weeks, I came home to "read" the episode Shadows of a New Dawn. (They even have a primer for newbies). This is probably one of the best pieces of writing (never mind television writing - or Trek Writing) that I have come across in a long time:
the only thing we truly know about the undiscovered countryAll in all, several conclusions come to mind:
is that we know nothing at all. And the worst of those dangers we face, the ones that in the end are the only ones to have the power to destroy us, are those that we face within ourselves, our own personal demons. The hardest fought battles that lie ahead are those for our hearts, and for our souls. It is how we face up to these challenges, and whether we can dig deep within ourselves and find the courage and resolve needed to overcome them, that will ultimately decide our destiny. (By Rob Jelley & James Sampson)
- You know you're in trouble when any body of work is called a franchise;
- Someone who loves a body of work should be encouraged to add to that work; and
- I really need to finish that Doctor Who/Marx Brothers/Dark Shadows crossover novel...
September 1, 2004
Spider Man Reviews Crayons
I found this link at Bloggity-Bloggity-Blog
Just had my performance review, spent yesterday in lovely Jefferson County (with my keys locked in the car!), and am heading to Wentzville and Chesterfield this afternoon (work related). My head is spinnin', folks.
Lata, playas....
Just had my performance review, spent yesterday in lovely Jefferson County (with my keys locked in the car!), and am heading to Wentzville and Chesterfield this afternoon (work related). My head is spinnin', folks.
Lata, playas....
August 30, 2004
Corrupted by the Jesuits!
Found out about this site from my pal Brian, and all I can say is...my parents sent me to Jesuit schools.
My results are:
In the words of Monty Python, Immanuel Kant was a real pissant who was very, rarely stable...
My results are:
| 1. | Aquinas (100%) Click here for info |
| 2. | Aristotle (80%) Click here for info |
| 3. | St. Augustine (78%) Click here for info |
| 4. | Spinoza (69%) Click here for info |
| 5. | Plato (63%) Click here for info |
| 6. | Jean-Paul Sartre (54%) Click here for info |
| 7. | Epicureans (52%) Click here for info |
| 8. | Jeremy Bentham (50%) Click here for info |
| 9. | John Stuart Mill (45%) Click here for info |
| 10. | Nel Noddings (39%) Click here for info |
| 11. | Ockham (38%) Click here for info |
| 12. | Thomas Hobbes (36%) Click here for info |
| 13. | Nietzsche (31%) Click here for info |
| 14. | Stoics (31%) Click here for info |
| 15. | David Hume (20%) Click here for info |
| 16. | Prescriptivism (20%) Click here for info |
| 17. | Ayn Rand (19%) Click here for info |
| 18. | Kant (15%) Click here for info |
| 19. | Cynics (10%) Click here for info |
August 29, 2004
Carry That Weight
As I had blogged earlier this week, the family of one of my colleagues suffered a tremendous loss - a man, his wife, and their 14 year-old daughter were killed in a fiery crash. When I attended the memorial service (out of professional and personal respect), I really didn't expect to be super-emotional; after all, I was several levels removed.
Of course, it turns out the man (my colleague's brother-in-law) was a major, I mean major Beatles fan...and they played their music. And that hit me hard.
First, I love the Beatles - my mother owned all of their records (including a Vee-Jay album!) up until Sgt. Pepper I have no animus towards them - heck, I wanted to be John Lennon when I grew up, and can remember where I was when Lennon was shot. (In the back seat of my aunt Bette's car, having picked Mom up from work, and having a glass Pepsi bottle clunking against my foot as the news came over the radio).
Cut to July 8, 2001 - my aunt Bette had just died of a swift, sudden bout of ovarian cancer. (Just that Christmas Eve, she had suffered a heart attack, and I drove my mom in a car with no working odometer, speedometer, or fuel gauge, and I believe the headlights were powered by Duracells). I had just come back from Chicago (I had arranged to visit my aunt, and she died four hours before my flight), and was preparing to fly back out for the funeral. Most of the time, I was the calm, good son, the strong man who helped his family through a tough time.
Driving down Union to Lindell, I was listening to the local oldies station, which began playing the last two songs on Abbey Road. The lyrics, which I probably have heard umpteen times, now seemed to take on a new meaning:
Just then, I couldn't keep up the wall - as I drove to (presumably) some
Metropolis meeting, I broke down and cried.
Cut back to yesterday: hearing all that Beatle music (and I don't normally associate it with my aunt) brought the grief, the sorrow, flooding back. Although the rest of the congregation mourned the lost family (and I have to admit, I readily empathized), I also felt the loss of my aunt in a way which I hadn't in years.
There was a lot of talk about getting back in touch with people you missed, of "hugging the ones you love a little more tightly". Although I can do that with some of my friends, I know several others whom I cannot get in touch with. (One of them - someone I care about - would be hurt by my attempt. Most of the others are a case of needing more time and room).
After that, I had made plans to meet friends and do The Lot, but somehow, I just didn't have the energy or the will.
Maybe this is the lesson - that even the most negative of experiences have the power to remind us of what we have, and that even in our hour of darkness, there will be someone standing next to us, speaking words of wisdom...let it be.
Of course, it turns out the man (my colleague's brother-in-law) was a major, I mean major Beatles fan...and they played their music. And that hit me hard.
First, I love the Beatles - my mother owned all of their records (including a Vee-Jay album!) up until Sgt. Pepper I have no animus towards them - heck, I wanted to be John Lennon when I grew up, and can remember where I was when Lennon was shot. (In the back seat of my aunt Bette's car, having picked Mom up from work, and having a glass Pepsi bottle clunking against my foot as the news came over the radio).
Cut to July 8, 2001 - my aunt Bette had just died of a swift, sudden bout of ovarian cancer. (Just that Christmas Eve, she had suffered a heart attack, and I drove my mom in a car with no working odometer, speedometer, or fuel gauge, and I believe the headlights were powered by Duracells). I had just come back from Chicago (I had arranged to visit my aunt, and she died four hours before my flight), and was preparing to fly back out for the funeral. Most of the time, I was the calm, good son, the strong man who helped his family through a tough time.
Driving down Union to Lindell, I was listening to the local oldies station, which began playing the last two songs on Abbey Road. The lyrics, which I probably have heard umpteen times, now seemed to take on a new meaning:
Once there was a way to get back homeward
Once there was a way to get back home
Sleep pretty darling do not cry
And I will sing a lullabye
Golden slumbers fill your eyes
Smiles awake you when you rise
Sleep pretty darling do not cry
And I will sing a lullabye
Once there was a way to get back homeward
Once there was a way to get back home
Sleep pretty darling do not cry
And I will sing a lullabye
Boy, you gonna carry that weight
Carry that weight a long time
Boy, you gonna carry that weight
Carry that weight a long time
I never give you my pillow
I only send you my invitation
And in the middle of the celebrations
I break down
Boy, you gonna carry that weight
Carry that weight a long time
Boy, you gonna carry that weight
Carry that weight a long time
Just then, I couldn't keep up the wall - as I drove to (presumably) some
Metropolis meeting, I broke down and cried.
Cut back to yesterday: hearing all that Beatle music (and I don't normally associate it with my aunt) brought the grief, the sorrow, flooding back. Although the rest of the congregation mourned the lost family (and I have to admit, I readily empathized), I also felt the loss of my aunt in a way which I hadn't in years.
There was a lot of talk about getting back in touch with people you missed, of "hugging the ones you love a little more tightly". Although I can do that with some of my friends, I know several others whom I cannot get in touch with. (One of them - someone I care about - would be hurt by my attempt. Most of the others are a case of needing more time and room).
After that, I had made plans to meet friends and do The Lot, but somehow, I just didn't have the energy or the will.
Maybe this is the lesson - that even the most negative of experiences have the power to remind us of what we have, and that even in our hour of darkness, there will be someone standing next to us, speaking words of wisdom...let it be.
August 27, 2004
All the Poop Money Can Buy
This has been one heckuva week - a colleague's family tragedy, a meeting in Ballwin, a board meeting where nobody showed up, a rendevous with a friend that turns into a game of "my problems are bigger than yours", a meeting last night in St. Peters, and basically trying to catch up and get settled in my new office. So, what's the cure for the blues that ail me?
The Best of Triumph, The Insult Comic Dog on DVD. I admit, most of my exposure to Triumph have been files shared through LimeWire...but only because Conan O'Brien is one scary lookin' dude. Anyway, I love my humor coarse, off-color, and clever (hey, I grew up on Monty Python - who wouldn't suspect?), so this is a natural for me. It's pretty much every Triumph sketch ever performed on one DVD.
First, the "Classic Poop" - includes two appearances at the Westminster Dog Show (my personal favorite is # 2, where Triumph appears as both Ed Bradley and Barbara Walters), the "Star Wars" Premiere (my all time favorite), Hollywood Squares, Bon Jovi (wherein Triumph modifies one of their hits), the 2002 "altercation" with Eminem at the MTV Music Awards, and Quebec. Admittedly, the Quebec piece falls a little short (due to language problems), but every one of these is full-out, laugh out loud funny.
Much of the humor is due to the fact that Triumph is a puppet. From Bob on F/X's old Breakfast Time series to Mystery Science Theater 3000, puppets have been use to say things that human beings would be arrested for saying. Let's face it, Triumph asking a nerd, "Have you ever talked to a woman without leaving your credit card number?" would seem unnecessarily cruel coming from a regular human being. (Plus, since many of the jokes are dog-related...it makes more sense).
But wait - there's more, he says in his best Ron Popeil voice. There is "Extra Poop" and "More Poop than is Necessary". This includes other Triumph sketches, including the infamous Pets.com press conference, a montage of celebrity insult sketches (highlight: Triumph calling Pauly Shore a "human wee wee pad"), and Triumph's music video "I Keed" from Come Poop With Me. This is the kind of DVD where you don't need Easter Eggs - there's plenty of material. Heck, Triumph's first appearance on Conan is included, a tribute to the anal expulsivity (the opposite of anal retention) of the producers.
[One note: three of the sketches - the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards, the Triumph Christmas Special, and the Pets.com Press Conference - all suffer severe and dramatic cuts. I only hope it's due to music clearances, and not because J-Lo, Kathie Lee Gifford, and Sting have no senses of humor. I mean, really, if John Tesh could appear in two Triumph sketches, they could cut us a break. Especially Sting, who should know better. But I digress]
This is a fine, fine DVD. Play it for all your friends, invite your family over, and share it with your pets. You will do yourself - and your loved ones - a valued public service.
The Best of Triumph, The Insult Comic Dog on DVD. I admit, most of my exposure to Triumph have been files shared through LimeWire...but only because Conan O'Brien is one scary lookin' dude. Anyway, I love my humor coarse, off-color, and clever (hey, I grew up on Monty Python - who wouldn't suspect?), so this is a natural for me. It's pretty much every Triumph sketch ever performed on one DVD.
First, the "Classic Poop" - includes two appearances at the Westminster Dog Show (my personal favorite is # 2, where Triumph appears as both Ed Bradley and Barbara Walters), the "Star Wars" Premiere (my all time favorite), Hollywood Squares, Bon Jovi (wherein Triumph modifies one of their hits), the 2002 "altercation" with Eminem at the MTV Music Awards, and Quebec. Admittedly, the Quebec piece falls a little short (due to language problems), but every one of these is full-out, laugh out loud funny.
Much of the humor is due to the fact that Triumph is a puppet. From Bob on F/X's old Breakfast Time series to Mystery Science Theater 3000, puppets have been use to say things that human beings would be arrested for saying. Let's face it, Triumph asking a nerd, "Have you ever talked to a woman without leaving your credit card number?" would seem unnecessarily cruel coming from a regular human being. (Plus, since many of the jokes are dog-related...it makes more sense).
But wait - there's more, he says in his best Ron Popeil voice. There is "Extra Poop" and "More Poop than is Necessary". This includes other Triumph sketches, including the infamous Pets.com press conference, a montage of celebrity insult sketches (highlight: Triumph calling Pauly Shore a "human wee wee pad"), and Triumph's music video "I Keed" from Come Poop With Me. This is the kind of DVD where you don't need Easter Eggs - there's plenty of material. Heck, Triumph's first appearance on Conan is included, a tribute to the anal expulsivity (the opposite of anal retention) of the producers.
[One note: three of the sketches - the 2001 MTV Video Music Awards, the Triumph Christmas Special, and the Pets.com Press Conference - all suffer severe and dramatic cuts. I only hope it's due to music clearances, and not because J-Lo, Kathie Lee Gifford, and Sting have no senses of humor. I mean, really, if John Tesh could appear in two Triumph sketches, they could cut us a break. Especially Sting, who should know better. But I digress]
This is a fine, fine DVD. Play it for all your friends, invite your family over, and share it with your pets. You will do yourself - and your loved ones - a valued public service.
August 26, 2004
My Favorite Blog Post....
This post alone makes me glad I'm a social service/psychology/substance abuse/comic geek.
I defy you not to laugh out loud at this one...
I defy you not to laugh out loud at this one...
August 25, 2004
Ghost World
There are two kinds of comic book movies - one is the straight-ahead, action-adventure film that takes its protagonist straight from the four-color tomes of our day. Stuff like Spider-Man, Daredevil, Batman Begins, etc...
Then there are comic book films that take graphic novels as their source material, and attempt to do something unique with them. Ghost World, based on the graphic novel by Daniel Clowes, is one of those movies. Admittedly, I haven't read the graphic novel, but this movie has done what few have - actually made me want to see out the source material.
The film concerns two teenagers just out of high school: Enid (Thora Birch) and Rebecca (Scarlett Johansenn). Enid is cynical enough to see through the gradual mall-ization (and general interpersonal BS), and keeps a cold, critical eye on life. Rebecca is the same way, only a little bit more practical. Gradually, they float around, following strange people, until they spot a personal ad from a rather interesting gentleman (Steve Buscemi)...and then, the movie moves forward.
Admittedly, this is not a perfect movie...but these are not perfect people. This is not a typical, sunny, Hollywood "teen" movie, but a reflection on the connections we make, the connections we don't make, and the connections we seem to find on accident. (Oh, sure, it's "about" the mall-ization of America, according to Clowes, and it's "about" two teenage girls). It's slow at a few points, has a few Syd Field-esque screenplay moments (i.e., you see the cliche coming), and OK, note to Terry Zwigoff: We know you did a film about Robert Crumb. Did you have to use the Crumb in-jokes? However, David Cross' "appearance" at a record collector's shindig is priceless.
[Also, there is a brilliant use of an old India film clip at the beginning - you have to appreciate that. Although the film sometimes threatens to wallow in its own quirkiness, it never crosses that line]
Admittedly, I've been ruminating over my own life - lost connections, lost opportunities, and the friendships that I have right now. Right now, my mind keeps coming back to this movie - it's definitely not Saturday afternoon throwaway fare, but one that you will probably want to watch more than once.
Then there are comic book films that take graphic novels as their source material, and attempt to do something unique with them. Ghost World, based on the graphic novel by Daniel Clowes, is one of those movies. Admittedly, I haven't read the graphic novel, but this movie has done what few have - actually made me want to see out the source material.
The film concerns two teenagers just out of high school: Enid (Thora Birch) and Rebecca (Scarlett Johansenn). Enid is cynical enough to see through the gradual mall-ization (and general interpersonal BS), and keeps a cold, critical eye on life. Rebecca is the same way, only a little bit more practical. Gradually, they float around, following strange people, until they spot a personal ad from a rather interesting gentleman (Steve Buscemi)...and then, the movie moves forward.
Admittedly, this is not a perfect movie...but these are not perfect people. This is not a typical, sunny, Hollywood "teen" movie, but a reflection on the connections we make, the connections we don't make, and the connections we seem to find on accident. (Oh, sure, it's "about" the mall-ization of America, according to Clowes, and it's "about" two teenage girls). It's slow at a few points, has a few Syd Field-esque screenplay moments (i.e., you see the cliche coming), and OK, note to Terry Zwigoff: We know you did a film about Robert Crumb. Did you have to use the Crumb in-jokes? However, David Cross' "appearance" at a record collector's shindig is priceless.
[Also, there is a brilliant use of an old India film clip at the beginning - you have to appreciate that. Although the film sometimes threatens to wallow in its own quirkiness, it never crosses that line]
Admittedly, I've been ruminating over my own life - lost connections, lost opportunities, and the friendships that I have right now. Right now, my mind keeps coming back to this movie - it's definitely not Saturday afternoon throwaway fare, but one that you will probably want to watch more than once.
August 24, 2004
Will Be Away For Awhile
Yesterday morning, I received an e-mail from one of my colleagues - her husband's brother, sister-in-law, and 14 year old niece were in a fatal car crash. Right now, blogging doesn't feel like much of a priority...but I will be back. Just need to take care of myself for a few days.
August 20, 2004
Blog Reviews!
A former coworker once claimed I had a Superman complex because I had an Alex Ross-painted poster when Superman "returned" to his original costume.
However, she has probably never seen Fortress of Soliloquies, which is an all-Superman blog. I highly recommend it for the fan and non-fan alike; this blog is just brimming with enthusiasm, energy, and just plain fun! (And thanks for the link, pal)
And taking a cue from Nuance, I also highly recommend Tequila Mockingbird, a more personal blog. Some of the pieces, I have to admit, I wish I had written - imagine sitting over drinks with someone you barely know, and you have the kind of conversation that two people who barely know each other have. You know, where you discuss your innermost feelings and thoughts, knowing that you may not see each other again. The kind of conversations where you say to yourself, "I can't believe I'm saying this out loud." That's the kind of blog this is, and worth your time.
However, she has probably never seen Fortress of Soliloquies, which is an all-Superman blog. I highly recommend it for the fan and non-fan alike; this blog is just brimming with enthusiasm, energy, and just plain fun! (And thanks for the link, pal)
And taking a cue from Nuance, I also highly recommend Tequila Mockingbird, a more personal blog. Some of the pieces, I have to admit, I wish I had written - imagine sitting over drinks with someone you barely know, and you have the kind of conversation that two people who barely know each other have. You know, where you discuss your innermost feelings and thoughts, knowing that you may not see each other again. The kind of conversations where you say to yourself, "I can't believe I'm saying this out loud." That's the kind of blog this is, and worth your time.
O Captain, My Captain Spaulding...
I don't remember when I first saw him - whether it was watching reruns of You Bet Your Life on a faded UHF station, or a New Year's Eve showing of Duck Soup, but somehow, as a child, Groucho Marx insinuated himself in my psyche.
It's been 27 years since Groucho passed, but I remember it almost like it was yesterday. After seeing Animal Crackers for the first time, staying up late at night to catch it (in those pre-VCR, pre-Tivo days), I was shocked...and thought it highly unfair that Elvis Presley received more coverage. After all, Presley was just a rock-and-roll singer...Groucho was, well, Groucho. He was an icon, and how can you ignore an icon?
What effect have the Marx Brothers' had on me? The question is, more like, what haven't they done for me? Part of my wit comes straight from Groucho's mouth, and I was lucky to learn from a master. For example: in fifth grade, while waiting in line to use the bathroom, I was goofing around with a pal. My teacher announced loudly, "Gordon, you're a space cadet," to which I responded, "At least I qualify."
In camp, I earned the nickname "Groucho" for an entire day in response to a charge in Kangaroo Court. They got into my blood, into my very DNA...and it's been hard to shake since that time.
They appealed on many levels - a child can appreciate the anarchic humor, the spirit, the overall playfulness of the Marx Brothers. (Especially Harpo - one of the few scenes that will have me rolling with laughter is the "lemonade" scene in Duck Soup). As an adult, the verbal wit, the very anti-establishment sense still rings true, and strikes a critical chord. I must also admit that, once they switched to MGM (and Zeppo left the group), they lost a certain whimsy and spirit. I'll grant you A Night At the Opera and A Day At The Races (both films cool enough to become titles of Queen Album), but as they made their way through the MGM filmmaking machine, they became more scripted, less spirited, less alive than their Paramount films.
But that isn't the point of this entry - it's to mourn the passing of a man who, in these times, we so desperately need. In an age of political correctness, and where humor has become less and less clever, we need a man who will fight for our honor, which is more than we will ever do. (We also need Chico's ability to deal with the less-than-savory, and Harpo's willingness to have other's hold his leg).
There are some who claim that the Marxes are out-of-date, but I disagree: wherever there is a high schooler who gives his teachers a hard time; wherever someone dares to bring the high-and-mighty down to earth; wherever someone tries to make someone else laugh, the Marxes live on.
Rent one of their movies, and let them work their magic.
Groucho, you're missed. Terribly.
It's been 27 years since Groucho passed, but I remember it almost like it was yesterday. After seeing Animal Crackers for the first time, staying up late at night to catch it (in those pre-VCR, pre-Tivo days), I was shocked...and thought it highly unfair that Elvis Presley received more coverage. After all, Presley was just a rock-and-roll singer...Groucho was, well, Groucho. He was an icon, and how can you ignore an icon?
What effect have the Marx Brothers' had on me? The question is, more like, what haven't they done for me? Part of my wit comes straight from Groucho's mouth, and I was lucky to learn from a master. For example: in fifth grade, while waiting in line to use the bathroom, I was goofing around with a pal. My teacher announced loudly, "Gordon, you're a space cadet," to which I responded, "At least I qualify."
In camp, I earned the nickname "Groucho" for an entire day in response to a charge in Kangaroo Court. They got into my blood, into my very DNA...and it's been hard to shake since that time.
They appealed on many levels - a child can appreciate the anarchic humor, the spirit, the overall playfulness of the Marx Brothers. (Especially Harpo - one of the few scenes that will have me rolling with laughter is the "lemonade" scene in Duck Soup). As an adult, the verbal wit, the very anti-establishment sense still rings true, and strikes a critical chord. I must also admit that, once they switched to MGM (and Zeppo left the group), they lost a certain whimsy and spirit. I'll grant you A Night At the Opera and A Day At The Races (both films cool enough to become titles of Queen Album), but as they made their way through the MGM filmmaking machine, they became more scripted, less spirited, less alive than their Paramount films.
But that isn't the point of this entry - it's to mourn the passing of a man who, in these times, we so desperately need. In an age of political correctness, and where humor has become less and less clever, we need a man who will fight for our honor, which is more than we will ever do. (We also need Chico's ability to deal with the less-than-savory, and Harpo's willingness to have other's hold his leg).
There are some who claim that the Marxes are out-of-date, but I disagree: wherever there is a high schooler who gives his teachers a hard time; wherever someone dares to bring the high-and-mighty down to earth; wherever someone tries to make someone else laugh, the Marxes live on.
Rent one of their movies, and let them work their magic.
Groucho, you're missed. Terribly.
The Joy of DVDs...
Last night, I was shopping at Target - mostly, I needed to get a lampshade and light bulbs for my desk lamp at work. I decided to browse their DVD selection, mostly to see what's up and coming. (I am eagerly awaiting Triumph, the Insult Comic Dog DVD from Amazon.com - nothing like a little scatalogical, immature humor to end the week).
Anyway, I'm gently surprised - Hanna Barbera/Time Warner is offering first (and, on some, second) seasons of the Flintstones, Jetsons, Johnny Quest, and Scooby-Doo on DVD. In my opinion, it's about time! You can also get the first season of Starsky and Hutch (was there a really big call for this on DVD?), $4 DVDS of pilot episodes of several shows (Babylon 5, Waltons, Gilmore Girls, Gilligan's Island), and...shocker of shockers, a DVD collection of the first season of Alf.
That's right - Alf, the lovable muppet/midget in a costume who came to earth to eat our cats, give Willie a hard time, and had his own Saturday morning show. Admitted, I had Alf fever - I had a poster in my bedroom. (OK, I've just crossed the line from "geek" to "sad, sad, individual". However, I would like to know who it was who moved heaven and earth to get this on DVD.
Some shows, like this and Punky Brewster, deserve to molder and be hidden in vaults, not given the DVD deluxe treatment.
However, on a stronger note, here are some DVD reviews for you to contemplate:
The Tao of Steve: Like The Whole Wide World with Vincent D'Onofrio, this is a "chick flick that guys can like." (Unlike TWWW, this is a chick flick disguised as an indie flick). Starring Donal Logue (aka "The guy from Grounded for Life" or "The Guy Who Keeps Getting His Hands Cut off in Blade") stars as a guy with a Zen approach to women, who meets his match. A little predictable, but worth your time.
The American Nightmare: a documentary about late 1960's - early 1970's horror movies. Plus - it includes David Cronenberg, whom I feel is very underrated. Minus - it sometimes gets to be a little too pretentious for its own good, and doesn't give John Carpenter enough screen time. At 70 minutes, it flies by fast, but is worth it as a scholarly look at an underappreciated drama. Not for the faint of heart.
Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (bonus features disk): I was not going to waste my hard earned money on seeing a bad film, so I just rented the 2nd disk from Netflix. Basically, just as dull, with a great lesson - some people shouldn't direct or write screenplays.
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Girl in Gold Boots: Taken from (I presume) the final year of MST3K (Pearl's in a castle), this is a great MST3k Episode. Bad go-go, biker in LA movie meets the 'bots vicious wit. (Personally, I don't see the whole Joel vs. Mike clash - if you want sleepy obscure humor, you got Joel; for slightly contemptuous obscure humor, there's Mike). Plus, is it just me, or is the actress who plays Pearl Forrester...incredibly hot???
Maybe I have been single too long...
Anyway, I'm gently surprised - Hanna Barbera/Time Warner is offering first (and, on some, second) seasons of the Flintstones, Jetsons, Johnny Quest, and Scooby-Doo on DVD. In my opinion, it's about time! You can also get the first season of Starsky and Hutch (was there a really big call for this on DVD?), $4 DVDS of pilot episodes of several shows (Babylon 5, Waltons, Gilmore Girls, Gilligan's Island), and...shocker of shockers, a DVD collection of the first season of Alf.
That's right - Alf, the lovable muppet/midget in a costume who came to earth to eat our cats, give Willie a hard time, and had his own Saturday morning show. Admitted, I had Alf fever - I had a poster in my bedroom. (OK, I've just crossed the line from "geek" to "sad, sad, individual". However, I would like to know who it was who moved heaven and earth to get this on DVD.
Some shows, like this and Punky Brewster, deserve to molder and be hidden in vaults, not given the DVD deluxe treatment.
However, on a stronger note, here are some DVD reviews for you to contemplate:
The Tao of Steve: Like The Whole Wide World with Vincent D'Onofrio, this is a "chick flick that guys can like." (Unlike TWWW, this is a chick flick disguised as an indie flick). Starring Donal Logue (aka "The guy from Grounded for Life" or "The Guy Who Keeps Getting His Hands Cut off in Blade") stars as a guy with a Zen approach to women, who meets his match. A little predictable, but worth your time.
The American Nightmare: a documentary about late 1960's - early 1970's horror movies. Plus - it includes David Cronenberg, whom I feel is very underrated. Minus - it sometimes gets to be a little too pretentious for its own good, and doesn't give John Carpenter enough screen time. At 70 minutes, it flies by fast, but is worth it as a scholarly look at an underappreciated drama. Not for the faint of heart.
Star Trek V: The Final Frontier (bonus features disk): I was not going to waste my hard earned money on seeing a bad film, so I just rented the 2nd disk from Netflix. Basically, just as dull, with a great lesson - some people shouldn't direct or write screenplays.
Mystery Science Theater 3000: Girl in Gold Boots: Taken from (I presume) the final year of MST3K (Pearl's in a castle), this is a great MST3k Episode. Bad go-go, biker in LA movie meets the 'bots vicious wit. (Personally, I don't see the whole Joel vs. Mike clash - if you want sleepy obscure humor, you got Joel; for slightly contemptuous obscure humor, there's Mike). Plus, is it just me, or is the actress who plays Pearl Forrester...incredibly hot???
Maybe I have been single too long...
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