American Horror Story (FX)

4.5 HELL YEAHs out of 5


American Horror Story is one of the very best shows on TV this year...so far. At first viewing it seems like a mix of both "American Gothic" and "Amityville Horror" - with a dash of Twin Peaks (odd ball factor).

AHS has this quirky jerky film style that works perfectly with this type of show. They don't over do this effect which is good. Visually the sets and locations are stylish, creepy, modern, and antique all at the same time, lending a sense of  "history" to the story that is playing out.

Presumably about a house (and inhabitants) where any who go in are killed. A family moves into this house trying to start over and reconnect, after a family tragedy, and find themselves running into odd neighbors, crazy clients, and strange visions and visitors. It's not known yet what all is going on in and around the house, ther are just too many pieces. Some of the sequences feel like dreams, or mash ups of different time events ...very weird...but all seem to converge or live in the same space nicely.

One thing is for sure, have your DVR ready to rewind, pause, and slow forward to catch many of things that happen and images that flash on screen.

Watching AHS literally makes you feel a bit crazy, sort of like you can't quite comprehend what you are watching. This is a deep multi layered show that I hope will keep me guessing. thrilled, a bit scared, and entertained. The alternative is that they may give it all away in the next few episodes, and then what? Which is why I give it 4.5 and not 5 out of 5.
Wonderfully acted and cast I hope this show will prove to be one of the best and one to schedule to record all season.

Terra Nova (Fox)

3.5 HELL YEAHS out of 5

What many thought was going to be a LOST crossed with Jurassic Park...was more like Lost in Space crossed with Avatar, crossed with No Ordinary Family (without the super powers)

Terra Nova, is a brave attempt to bring high quality FX to the small screen. For the most part Terra Nova succeeds - so far. It's easy to say that the pilot episode could be the proverbial "wad". Worrying about the visuals on the show is by far not the biggest thing producers and directors and WRITERS should worry about. Instead they really need a stronger writing team. I liked Terra Nova (so far) but I did have a few BIG problems with it as well.  The writing and direction, the tone and the schizophrenic "personality" of the show.

The Acting - is ok, I can't really blame the actors for poor writing and direction. From the first scenes you think cool futuristic hardship offset by family. Then the population police storm in and the ex cop (father) puts up a fight ultimately to be arrested and sentenced to prison. Two years later his wife sneaks in some sort of cutting device. so that he can escape, and go to Terra Nova with the family (more on that in a second) I guess the attempt here is to establish that this guy is a bad ass. Ex Cop...Able to bust out of Maximum security prison....Bad Ass right? Well flash forward 20 mins or so and now the guy is basically a whipped whatever you want me to do...family man who agrees to be a gardener. Plus there is a major disconnect between the husband and wife relationship. They say they love each other...and yeah they have been away from each other for 2 yrs...but why do they have a hard time being affectionate, or holding hands or ANYTHING remotely family like? So for me the whole family dynamic was REALLY hard to like.

So what is Terra Nova? Well so far we think it's Earth 85 Million years in the past. BUT it's supposedly NOT within the same time stream as the future from which the "pilgrims" came. This is supposedly how the show gets around the "butterfly effect" which of course they refer to. Terra Nova is the actual settlement that these pilgrims come to live in. Fortified, furbished, and farmed...one big happy settlement. When new arrivals first come through the event horizon they are confused and are forced to drink green/blue milk. Other than that there are no ill effects to the clean air, sun, surrounding, nothing...I would have liked a little more bewilderment, Awe, there was no wow factor. Instead everyone and everything falls into place as if they lived there the whole time.

Terra Nova and the ancient earth also look all too comfortable. YES it's Earth and there shouldn't be a whole lot of crazy plants and funky looking things like in Avatar, but what I was really looking and waiting to see was a car right out of the Flintstones. The whole city has a Flintstones feel to it. Perhaps that was the hidden intent. If so it worked, on me at least. It felt too cartoony.

The authoritarian leader of Terra Nova is Stephen Lang from Avatar fame. You can basically transplant his Avatar Character for this one. Standing on the porch of his hut 15ft above the newly arrived crowd I just knew he was going to say "welcome to Pandora". Instead...."welcome to Terra Nova".

Terra Nova wants to be family friendly which is good, but it also wants to be a action drama, which is also good, and it feels like it's going to be an episodic "fix the problem" series.  - all 3 are good but together...they are not. An action drama that really wants to sell family values and feel goodness can work BUT the sappiness has to go. Right now I see this show lasting about a season if they are lucky if they the don't find a niche and stick with it. Other wise like No Ordinary Family a great idea will have been wasted due to poor writing.

I like the look of Pandora...I mean Terra Nova...I like the scifi element with time travel and repercussions...I just hope they can keep it together and strengthen it's weaknesses.

Conan vs. Fright Night vs. The '80's

2.5 HELL YEAH's out of 5

This weekend I had a double feature of Conan and Fright Night. Since both of these movies are remakes or re imaginings of the originals I thought I would wait to see the originals on TV first. I was right and they both were played during the week running up to the weekend releases. For as dated as both movies are the originals were actually pretty good.

Now on to the new one.
I'm writing both of these reviews together because both actually failed in the same areas.

First, you really need to either stick with the original concept to the "T" or really diverge from the original. Conan did the best at diverging from the original. Where as Fright Night tried but ultimately was a poor rehash of the original.

I'll start with Conan since I just left the theater and it's still fresh. When I saw the preview for Conan some 6 or 7 months ago with Jason Mammoa at Conan, my first thought was, "this is going to be crap". We'll it wasn't crap but is wasn't Conan either. To be fair there are versions of Conan where he isn't just a blood thirsty barbarian...but this is what the film is called. Conan the Barbarian. In other book versions he is a pirate, a captain, a general, warrior, thief, etc...A real jack of all trades. From the very beginning this film was very "10,000 BC". I didn't care for that film or Mammoa. This Conan has a feel good streak in it and it completely contrasts with what I believe a Conan film should be. Ron Pearlman plays Conan's father and is giving a speech about how the Cimmerian's are warrior's and when they feel heat, it's the fire in their blood during battle, and when they feel cold it's the cold of their steel , etc...but still there is this underlining "feel good kindness" that just doesn't belong. In the original you don't really have a sense of where Conan was from but that's OK. because that was irrelevant at the time. What it did right was transform an abducted boy into a "barbarian" fighter, who learned the ways of the sword through necessity for survival.

Conan from 2011 is CGI ridden and in 3D which I saw in 2D and glad didn't spend more money for the 3D version. the '80's Conan effects were a bit dated BUT you felt the story more strongly. Today's Conan feels more like a cartoon, or some "Hercules" TV series spinoff. Mammoa plays Conan with a snarl and raised eyebrows with a rough growl in his voice but really never delivers. His physique is fine but not what one thinks about as "Conan". he's tall and muscular but NOT the biggest dog on the block, which is what one views Conan as in the books. Both Conan films never get the eyes right. I would love to see someone do a Conan movie where they get the black hair and blue eyes. This is a signature Cimmerian trait, that to me set's them apart from others in the the world.

The acting in the film was pretty weak, however Rose McGowan seemed to be pretty good. Other than that it felt like a SyFy tv movie as far as acting was concerned. What this film could have learned from the original is less is more. Less dialogue would have improved this film greatly. More focus on back story would have moved this film forward, instead it's just a bunch of edits and fights clipped together. Overall this was still an entertaining film for what it was. Would I see it again in theater...no, but I would watch it on free TV. unfortunately there are scenes that will ensure this film never sees the TV screens on network or cable. Again, advantage original Conan. The original Conan Captured the look and feel of a Barbarian and the worked he came from and lived in. This new film attempts to sensationalize a character for profit, and make a caricature of the cult hero. Not the worst movie in the world by far but not one that should have been made part of the Conan series.

Now on to Fright Night...
Much like the original this is a horror/comedy. Anton Yelchin is in my opinion going to be a big star. I loved him in Terminator Salvation and Star Trek. He was a little flat in this film, and played each scene the same. It really felt like all the scenes were set up weeks apart and shot in about an hour. Like watching HS theater.
Colin Ferrel played Jerry Dandridge. He didn't really do the character justice either. He played the cunning and seducing vampire with a gloomy edge that felt bored. Where as in the original Jerry was played like a regular guy. Sophisticated, well mannered, and likable. The guy from Super Bad that played Evil Ed was also a bit of a let down. He had really some of the only funny moments of the film, next to the the guy that plays Peter Vincent. The new Vincent was actually pretty good and funny...but ultimately not as good as the original.
ish.

The biggest draw back of the film is it's length and lack of character development. There is a whole 10-15 min chase scene that could have been scrapped in favor for character development. Ultimately you don't feel for the characters for the relationships that are built.

There are a few nostalgic references, like "you're so cool Brewster" and we see the original Jerry Dandridge... and a few other things that unless you are a real fan of the first you may not get.
Bottom line this was an ok film that will NOT be the cult fan favorite that the original was. The original is a classic from the '80's that will hopefully live on. I hope this film is forgotten in the next few weeks...which I'm sure it will be,

Advantage - '80's originals

Rise of The Planet of The Apes (2011)

4 HELL YEAH's out of 5

Rarely does a film that tries to impose human traits on to and animal succeed. Usually it becomes too cartoony, or silly, or just over the top bad. "Apes" does this does this seamlessly. With an even hand in direction you see both the primal animalistic instincts and behaviors gradually turn into higher thinking calculated moves. Apes is cleaver, and brilliantly done.

The CGI is the best part of the film. There are a few parts that do seem less than real but very few. Form the most part you feel like you are looking at real life chimps and other apes. Once the intelligence kicks in you literally see the emotions the actor is portraying come through the CGI almost perfectly. You truly do forget the CGI exists.

The on screen actors for the most part stay out of the way which is good. I can't stand James Franco in anything he has done. His dead behind the eyes, bland acting leaves his character one of the weakest parts of the movie. Adrian Brody would have been good for Franco's role. John Lythgoe on the other hand plays a wonderful character who has Alzheimer's. Most of the other characters are bit roles and stereotypical with now real consequence. The main focus is and should be the Chimps, especially Caesar.

Not really related to the film from several years ago and not really similar to the original...this film will appeal to new audiences. There are references to the original films, like clothes worn and a female chimp. There is even the ubiquitous "damn dirty ape" line that seems to find it's way into every "Apes" film.

There are a few WTF moments in the movie. Somehow a few dozen Apes turns into 100+. They all also seem to all have super intelligence even though they were not "exposed". I also didn't get why Franco's character didn't tell the Animal control guy about Caesars intelligence and how he's different.

The end of this film leaves a lot of questions, like how will the humans survive? How will the Apes take over?  They did a great job at setting up for a sequel without overtly doing it.
The film is not just a loud nonstop action sequence. There is a story and heart here. I found myself really engaged in the movie and feeling for the chimps. The action does rise and climaxes well. The best thing they did was not go over the top too much.

May not be for the whole family but over 12 should be fine. I enjoyed it.

Skinners (Marcus Pelegrimas)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5

"Skinners" is a series of books with a unique take on the vampire/werewolf mythos, and the humans who fight them.

The Skinner is a human who is part of a larger group that tracks, observes, and kills vampires and werewolves. Using ancient techniques and semi-mystical weapons passed down from skinner to skinner for hundreds of years they are truly a force to be reckoned with. Loosely organized and limited in numbers Skinners are committed to their purpose, of keeping the normal people safe from what lurks in the darkness.

The Vampires or Nymar as they are called, are pretty true to classical stereotype, except that the "vampire" part of a nymar is actually a parasitic host that attached itself to it's host's heart. This results in a a dramatic physical changes externally and internally. Marked and identified by what looks like black tattoos these marking are actually tendrils from the parasite that get darker and more pronounced as the Nymar get older (and stronger). Often grouped together but internally fractured the Nymar try to take over institutions such as brothels and other underground type "establishments". Always at odds with the Skinners, the Nymar want nothing more than to kill them all. However, disorganization keeps them in check, and maintaining a healthy dose of respect and fear for the Skinners.

Werewolves and shape shifters are also prevalent in this series.  Werewolves or "Full Bloods" are the absolute top of the food chain. Unimaginably fast, super strong, near invulnerable, and mean as hell, these guys are generally loners, and for good reason. When a Full blood attacks a human that human either dies or is turned into a "Half Breed". The later is done on purpose to create a pack. Half Breeds are gnarled looking beasts that posses both speed and strength, but limited intelligence. Where as Full Bloods can be highly intelligent. Full Bloods hate everything and everyone..Nymar, humans, shape shifters, half breeds, even other full bloods....EVERYONE!

Shape Shifters on the other had a small cousins of a Full Blood. They can be a feline, snake, ground dwelling creatures that can burrow. Unlike a full blood, which can change size and shape significantly, shape shifters are the approximate same size as the human form.

As a series Skinners is a very good read, part horror part action adventure. The characters are created very well, and you feel like you can connect with them. Nymar, Full Blood, and Human alike. What I really liked about these books is Marcus' constant push forward. He doesn't dwell on the minuscule details, that often bog down a good story. The time and action flows very nicely and you can't stop reading. There are a total of 6 books (5 published so far) in this series. Each book ends in such a way that it's hard to wait for the next one.
Another thing I like about Marcus' style is how he ends his chapters with a witty remark. It's this sarcasm that is very appealing in books like this.

These books are all about change and uncovering new information a mysteries. As time goes on and new adventure are had, all of the characters evolve for better or worse. One of my favorite scenes is in the first book where Cole is running from an unknown creature in the Alaskan wilderness. The imagery written is very "Stephen King" and scary intense.

To learn more about these books and Marcus Pelegrimas visit his website:
http://www.marcuspelegrimas.com/

ThunderCats (Cartoon Network)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5

Thunder thunder thunder THUNDERCATS HOOOOO!!!!  LOL. Well they did it. They brought back ThunderCats. One of my favorite cartoons from the 80's. I had the toys and swords and yelled out the ThunderCat call more times than I can count. Good times.

The new or revamped series that has premiered on cartoon network is how the 80's redeux should be done. VOLTRON could take some lessons. The same old cast of characters are present. Lion-o, Tigra, Cheetara, Wylie Kit and Kat, Panthro, and Snarf. Fortunately Snarf isn't annoying this time around. The voice actors are superb, and the art direction is excellent. What I liked about this new version the most so far is the look and feel and the level of maturity of the story. Too often (again Voltron) they try to gear the 80's classics to the younger audience. That's fine but know who your audience really will be. ThunderCats moderates this very well.

The King of the ThunderCats is voice acted by the original Lion-o from back in the day. It was very nostalgic and VERY cool to hear him give the call. I got the chills a little bit. Mumra is back as well. I always thought Mumra was a bit of a pussy in the original...all bark no bite. It seems that this version he packs a bit more bite. They give him an "emperor" from Star Wars feel, very nice.

This first 2 parter see's Lion-o needing to grow up and take responsibility, while at the same time "Thundara" has been over run by the lizards...We are introduced to Slithe. The end of the show doesn't have the full team together yet but as Lion-o says...this is just the beginning.  Fridays @ 7:30 Central...I'm looking forward to this nostalgic guilty pleasure.

Alphas (SyFy)

3 1/2 HELL YEAH's out of 5

Alphas is the most current "mutant" or superhuman TV concept. Most of these types of shows are all the same; a "Group" of special people who can do amazing things, often led by a paternal doctor figure. There is also usually some sort of opposing force of equally special individuals intent of taking over the world. That being said Alphas is the best since the first season of Heroes.  Another show that this series reminds me of is "Pain Killer Jane".

The cast of characters is pretty interesting, "Mr. Nigel Murry" from Bones plays an autistic who can see all electromagnetic bandwidths. Some other powers include the power of persuasion, adrenalin rush strength, and super senses. The plot is basically as described above a Dr. figure wants to help the little group which has worked with the FBI periodically. After the second episode we find out that there is a group that wants to do bad and they are persuaded to help the FBI on a more permanent basis.

What I like about this show even with it's cliche' plot and characters is that it's done pretty well. The look and feel of how they handle the powers is pretty grounded. So far they haven't jumped the shark, where most shows like this after the second or third episode, pretty much blow their wad.

Given the less than unique offering here I can't say this is a must watch but it does show up on demand. I find that this is a very nice diversion in the evening or weekends when there is nothing else on.

Captain America (2011)

4 HELL YEAH's out of 5

Captain America, MARVEL's newest comic book movie, is one of it's best. Definitely it's best this year.  Almost a period piece (1940's) the movie's style feels like it's been ripped out of a 1940's military recruitment film. It's safe to say that the style captured on film is perfect for the introduction of a 70 year old WWII comic book hero. Chris Evens plays a pretty good Capt. America, he has the look and demeanor for the character. Some of the Critics have been giving Evens a hard time due to his "B" List celebrity status, and vowing that all Comic lead actors should be Robert Downy Level actors...let's not forget that RDJ...was at rock bottom a film or 2 before Iron Man. Anyway...The acting was VERY GOOD in the film. Stanley Tucci was amazing in his role, then again he always is. Hugo Weaving IS THE RED SKULL!!! Like Mark Strong in Green Lantern, Weaving NAILED this character and was PERFECT. The CGI was phenomenal, and so was the Makeup. I don't know if the Red Skull was prosthetic or CGI but it was EXCELLENT.

Like most MARVEL movies there is a little hokiness, and perhaps it's a bit cartoony. Thor has this quality and fell a bit short as the "comic" elements didn't mesh well with the suspension of disbelief that the director was going for. Instead Capt. America embraces the cartoony, by styling the film so perfectly. LARGE walls of '40's computer mainframes, the absurdity of a woman running off to war in full make up, dressed to the 9's and looking fashionable....vs. fatigues. Then there is the whole, 1 man entering the enemy base with a giant american flag shield strapped to his back and no one seeing him. Add to this the contrast of regular vs "scifi" weaponry and technology, and it's the best of all worlds.  These things were on purpose and embraced the absurdity and it worked.

There really wasn't a point in the film that could have ruined it if it's too far fetched. They did come close with some of the dialogue but pulled back just in time. If we are keeping track DC vs. MARVEL this year so far...Marvel takes it with volume...GL was better than THOR but CA was better then GL (although I prefer GL....most will like CA more.) it's not really comparing apples to apples but it's what we have. NOW when Batman come out next year or so...Then we'll see how it should be done ALWAYS. For now, the formula of a little campy, a little gritty, and a lot fun is the best thing going today. Gotta Love It.

Spoiler:
After the credits roll...there is an AVENGERS MOVIE TRAILER...not the best ending gem...but not too back. THOR is sleevless and a bit pale...I wasn't a fan. I liked the armor sleeves.

Green Lantern (Emerald Knights)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5

Emerald Knights is the second animated movie from DC featuring Green Lantern. This film isn't as much about Hal Jordan as it is about some other lanterns. Told continuously in six sub stories, this is by far one of the best comic/animated films to date by either Marvel or DC.

The art direction was great, the voice acting was superb, and the story was entertaining...this is what should have hit the theater...or something like it. We learn about the first Lantern, Kilowag, Abin Sur, Mogo, and others as the stories unfold seamlessly. These are the type of comic movies, or even TV series that could be watched forever.

Touted as "like Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight", which was pretty awesome in it's own right. The only flaw, if you want to call it that, is that the difference in art styles was tough to see. Supposedly, each story arch had different artists and genres, but other than slight differences they all looked the same. That being said they all looked great. IF you saw Batman: LDK then you know what they mean by different art styles, or perhaps HALO: Legends, or the Animatrix. Those were all shorts and each being distinctively different...where Emerald Knights is a continuous story. I suppose they couldn't go too far off the reservation with the art.

At every turn where the Live Action movie failed this anime succeeded brilliantly!!! I can't wait for more GL properties to me animated. The series is coming out this fall, but I'd really like to see a series of Darkest Night Stories.

Franklin and Bash (TNT)

2 HELL YEAH's out of 5

From the Offical TNT site

"When they're not hanging out at their favorite hot dog stand pontificating on what they'd go through to enjoy a night with their favorite female celebrities, Jared Franklin (Breckin Meyer) and Peter Bash (Mark-Paul Gosselaar) are chasing down their latest clients...sometimes literally. With business cards in hand, they're ready to nab a client within seconds after a car accident, arrest for solicitation or any other incident where their legal services may be needed. Once in the courtroom, they show their flair for the dramatic and the shocking.

Peter has a knack for connecting with jury and judge, while Jared loves sticking it to authority every chance he gets. Despite their bad-boy antics, brash presentation and devil-may-care attitudes, Jared and Peter are good lawyers who are willing to do anything for a client, no matter who the client might be. That quality catches the attention of Stanton Infeld (Malcolm McDowell), a Renaissance man and the patriarch of Infeld Daniels, one of the top law firms in Los Angeles. He sees a lot of himself in the young men and decides to recruit the pair to bring a fresh energy to the firm. Jared and Peter are joined by their two legal aides, the brilliant, brassy Carmen (Dana Davis) and the agoraphobic, verminophobic Pindar (Kumail Nanjiani).

Infeld's decision to take on fresh talent doesn't sit well with his nephew, Damien Karp (Reed Diamond), a lawyer who has his own plans for the firm and a particularly shifty way of doing business. The arrival of Jared and Peter also threatens Karp's romantic - albeit celibate - relationship with Hanna Linden (Garcelle Beauvais), a lawyer who takes an immediate liking to Jared.

In their new digs at Infeld Daniels, Jared and Peter handle a variety of clients, from a woman fired for being too beautiful to a family feud over a cherished baseball. But their story is really about the incredible friendship they've built and how their relationship is challenged now that they find themselves working in a more corporate atmosphere. Only time will tell if these devoted buddies can survive in this new environment."

Basically...you have a poorly written law dramedy. This show is all noise and no substance. A FAR FAR better show was the DEFENDERS.  This is a show tailor made for TNT is that it can't be too expensive to make and will probably be off the air after a season or two. Initially this show looked very promising. To be honest I'm starting to warm to some of the comedy. I just can't get past the huge ensemble cast that is too big, too varied, and too miscast. This show is less about law and more about what Animal House would be if they were followed to the real life and had jobs. Could be funny at times, but since it isn't all the time, the show doesn't get anymore of  my time.

Necessary Roughness (USA)

2 HELL YEAH's out of 5

The series centers around a tough Long Island divorcee who lands a job as a therapist for a professional football team. Her career begins to take off when athletes, musicians, politicians and other celebrities start to request her tough love therapy. She must learn to balance her new career with being a single mother.

Inspired by a true story, this series is on paper pretty good. A well educated PhD. psychologist, hypnotherapist, behavioral therapist, etc...who put her career on the back burner for family and husband, just to find out that her husband of 17years has been cheating on her. When divorce papers are filed he tries to take everything to avoid paying for anything. Now she's a single mother of 2 with a mother who is a compulsive gambler. After a chance meeting with a "Trainer" for a professional football team, the Dr. is given the chance to treat one of the teams wide receivers who can't seem to catch the ball anymore.

You see where this is going...she gets paid, fixes the player, an starts to deal with her kids and family issues. Meanwhile she has found a niche working with celebrities and other top athletes, etc...

On paper this is a good show. On TV, it's an episodic problem fixer, with no real reason to watch. I know many USA shows are like that...but they have some other hook. There isn't one here. The lead actress, who has been a character actor on other shows, is a bit out of her comfort zone. I will say at times she pulls the whole Dr. Psychologist off....but everything else is a bit weak.  This show wants you to feel for the characters but there isn't any meat to them. The Football player (TK), perhaps a T.O. rip off...is stereotypical, in being so is less than believable.

There are a few redeeming parts to this show one being a "fixer" associated with the football team. If they made a show about him and his means of "fixing" things ...then you'd have a show. He seems like he could be an interesting character and part of the show. That is if I were to continue to watch it. I don't think I will. NOT a bad show, just not good enough to hook me in or keep me hooked even if I were to give it another shot, which is unfortunate since it's lead in is Royal Pains which is a great show.

TRANSFORMERS 3 (3D)

3.5 HELL YEAH's out of 5


First impressions...

LONG. LOUD. BETTER.
Ok so Transformers 3 (T3) is the longest of the the Transformers movies. Nearly 2h45m With previews it's almost a full 3. So if you have young children who get antsy...don't see this with them. If you are a pee-er, make sure you pee before it starts you won't want to miss any of it.

This time the it's the "humans" who have something to hide. Conspiracy theorists rejoice, the moon race was actually because of a crashed spaceship on the moon. A lot of good work and story was made to make this Story plot seem plausible, and it works. However, this film doesn't really tie any of the other two together, it's a stand alone...or continuation of what some call a "please forget what we did last time".

The CGI was excellent. The Autobot and Decepticons looked very cutting edge. Personally I am not a huge fan of how they were designed. I prefer the clean lines and shelled bodys from back in the day...from the first films they look "alien" which is good and fine...but at the same time have no personality. Which leads me to the biggest flaw of all 3 movies, no character development of any kind. They introduce different robots..Soundwave, Starscream, Shockwave, Laserbeak, and others but there is no real intro...who are these characters? Only the real fans know, and even so they are barely recognizable...Pity.

This film takes on a more human feel and story. There are more human characters introduced some funny (John Malkovich) and Ken Jeong (BRILLIANT as usual), some shady (Patrick Dempsey), to the new hot chick...who multiple times was said to be hotter and better than the last. I think fans will be split on the last one.

Visuals take over the last hour of this film. A full hour is given to CGI, explosions, and the battle for earth...If it wasn't an hour it sure felt like it, it was long. ALMOST too long. I think a few minutes could have been cut somewhere. BUT at the end it was just right and it kept my attention.

There were some stretches for comedy...most fell flat and seemed out of place. Like the 2 comic relief tiny robots, or "scrapers" with Irish or Scottish accents. The acting was OK this isn't Shakespeare I know...but Shia Lebouf can't seem to hit more than the loud smartass note. Everything out of his mouth is a sniping comment and at a 10. There is something to be said for tone.

Even with the lack of character development, poor acting, less than funny jokes, and longer than needed run time....this movie still entertained, and was pretty good. I can't say I want to see it again anytime soon, but I'm glad I did see it in theaters.

This was in 3D. I don't think that 3D made this film any better than if it were in 2D. Perhaps some shots of the Robots were better because of the added dimension, and a few others, but ultimately another 3D more "money please ploy".

REAPER (CW)

4 HELL YEAH'S out of 5


Now cancelled "REAPER" was one of the best shows that no one watched.

Throughout Sam's life, he always wondered why his mom and dad were so easy on him. Whether it was sports, school, career choices, or picking on his little brother Kyle, Sam always got away with everything. Because of it, he decided to drop out of college and take a dead beat job, wasting most of… More his time playing video games and wishing he could ask his co-worker Andi out. However, everything changes in Sam's life once he turns 21 and finds out the reason his parents let him get over was because they sold his soul to the devil before he was born.

Satan explains to Sam that he must serve as his bounty hunter, tracking down souls that have escaped from Hell. Initially, Sam refuses to accept his fate but he realizes the grave consequences of breaking a deal with the devil. He is armed with various vessels to collect the escapees. Sam finds that the work is dangerous and frightening even with the goof ball help of his friends and fellow slackers Sock and Ben, and Sock's former girlfriend, Josie. As bizarre as his life becomes, Sam feels good about his new found "missions", removing evil souls from the world and sending them back to where they belong. Along with his friends and his vessel of the week, Sam prepares to face his destiny as the "reaper".

This show had some lower production values...but still managed to surprise you, with some not too shabby CGI, and other FX. Make up for example was VERY good.
The casting was pretty good, Tyler Labine (Mad Love) as Sock has made him one of my all time favorite comedy actors. Sam Wise as the Devil...is BRILLIANT! PERFECT! AWESOME!. Ironically enough It took me a while to warm up to the lead "Sam".

The show was quirky, somewhat smart, funny, with some action thrown in, The cast grows on you, and you want to see more. In all it ran 2 seasons, Netflix has then as instant views. Give it a shot

SUITS (USA)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5


In a world filled with Legal shows...what's one more right? Well we lost the "Defenders" which was GREAT, and gained "Franklin and Bash" (see my post on this one). The TV world is full of other law shows that just didn't make it or those that are struggling.

"SUITS" the new show on USA that premiered after Burn Notice is FANTASTIC!!

Even the best lawyer in New York City can use some help.

While running from a drug deal gone bad, Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams), a brilliant young college-dropout, slips into a job interview with one of New York City's best legal closers, Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht). Tired of cookie-cutter law school grads, Harvey takes a gamble by hiring Mike on the spot after he recognizes his raw talent and photographic memory.

Mike and Harvey are a winning team. Even though Mike is a genius, he still has a lot to learn about law. And while Harvey may seem like an emotionless, cold-blooded shark, Mike's sympathy and concern for their cases and clients will help remind Harvey why he went into law in the first place. Mike's other allies in the office include the firm's best paralegal Rachel (Meghan Markle) and Harvey's no-nonsense assistant Donna (Sarah Rafferty) to help him serve justice.

Proving to be an irrepressible duo and invaluable to the practice, Mike and Harvey must keep their secret from everyone including managing partner Jessica (Gina Torres) and Harvey's arch nemesis Louis (Rick Hoffman), who seems intent on making Mike's life as difficult as possible.

The dynamic between Mike and Harvey is brilliant. It's almost like watching George Clooney and Matt Damon from the Ocean's movies. The Casting is spot on and directing was flawless. As you can see from my other posts I really like USA Networks shows. I'll admit it I do. They have a certain formula that other networks or shows don't have that works. SUITS is no exception to that rule. I know where I will be Thursdays at 9:00 Central.

BURN NOTICE (USA)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5


One of my favorite shows of in a VERY LONG time. Made by some of the same guys a "White Collar", Burn Notice has been on the air for several seasons. A flag ship show for USA Network, Burn Notice is Smart, Funny, and full of actions. The camera work is great and the eye candy (in Miami) is always nice.

The new season started last night and I have mixed feelings about it. If you've been following the show, you know that Michael was brought to the CIA headquarters at the end of last season as a big cliffhanger. The start of this season was pretty anticlimactic after the CIA revelation. They decided to go with the Montage of Michael talking and showing quick clips of missions, that is him bringing down the whole network that "burned" him. (all but one). The rest of the show focuses on him trying to get the to the top dog and get answers.

Mike has been carrying out CIA missions in secret for 6 months and the gang (Sam, Fee, Jessie, and Mike's mom) just sort of go with it. It's clear they don't like being left out of the loop, and this is an angle the show uses to tell it's story. It works. You really feel the some of the tension between the "gang" and the CIA and how each does things a bit differently. This shows through the best in how Mike improvises his plans. In a way this belittles the CIA Operatives working with him but that's OK. To avoid a spoiler...I won't go into how the show ends...but I will say it's somewhat expected, sort of a letdown, but opens up a world of potential twists that will keep the show propelled for more seasons to come....unless it is what it was...then I'm not sure what they are going to do. Either way, the show is a must watch/record just to find out.

BLEACH (Cartoon Network/Hulu)

5 HELL YEAH's out of 5


BLEACH is one of the longest and best anime series made. Currently it is in it's 16th season. YES it's still making new shows. This is a Japanese Cartoon made after the Manga Series. The stories are strong, and the arcs are fantastic. The art work is some of the best out there for a serial series like this. To be able to keep of quality and freshness for 16 seasons (330+ episodes so far) is amazing. Frankly there is no end in sight either.

About a human boy who can see spirits, and the beings that help send these wayward souls on to the next life (the Soul Society). The Soul Reapers as they are called, send souls to the next life, and also fight "Hollow's" Souls that have not only lost their way but who also lost hope and and are in desperation. Once a Soul (whole) has been turned into a Hollow - the Soul Reaper must defeat it and send it on to the next life.

By shear luck and coincidence Ichigo and Soul Reaper Rukia, cross paths and when Ichigo is about to die during a Hollow attach Rukia transfers her Soul Reaper Powers to Ichigo.

Throughout this series Ichigo defies the odds and grows stronger and stronger to help protect his family friends and ultimately EVERYONE. As a "substitute" soul Reaper he has the power of a Zanpakuto (Mystical Sword) to help him in his battles.

This anime has a huge cast of characters that are fleshed out perfectly, and who all offer something to the show. When you watch this show you can't help but get into it.

Netflix is showing the first 109 episode instantly, Hulu has MOST of the 16 season except for about 100 shows smack in the middle of the series. Many episodes after 109 can be seen on Cartoon Network.

If you are an anime fan or are new to the genre and haven't seen this...THIS IS A MUST...along with Dragonball Z and GT.

White Collar (USA)

4.5 HELL YEAH's out of 5


White Collar has been on for a few seasons now and it's one of my favorite shows. About a thief (one of the best) who is captured by an FBI agent (one of the best, and starts to work for the FBI, helping capture other notorious "uncatchable" thieves.

The cast and acting in this show is superb. The writing is also great, as it's from many of the same guys that write for Burn Notice. Also one of my FAVORITES returning this week. Set in New York the camera work is second to none and helps to really define the look and feel to this show, and sets it apart from others.

The thief Neal Caffery is in a constant struggle with his FBI counterpart Peter Burk, who walks a very fine line, willing to trust Neal but yet still has some reservations about whether or not he'll return to a life of crime if left to his own devices.

Over the first 2 seasons the relationship between Neal and Peter changes from a tentative partnership to a real friendship. Season 2 started to lose it's edge and wit and felt like Neal was becoming an FBI guy and the Super Thief that he is. All that has changed in season 3. Neal has a mountain of treasure and wants to liquidate and rid himself of Peter and the FBI for good. The only thing is Peter knows something...but just can't prove anything. The relationship is a chess match and it's very cool to see the personal interactions when both sides know something else is up but don't know how to proceed. So the do what what they can...they lie to each other and put up fake fronts until 1. Neal can get away...or 2. Peter can bust him (or whoever has the treasure). This is a testament to the writing on this show and how they are able to refresh the story line. These characters are the perfect point and counter point to each other and are acted flawlessly.

If you haven't seen this show, you should.

Teen Wolf (MTV)

4 HELL YEAH'S out of 5


The New Teen Wolf Series on MTV is actually surprisingly good. So far the first 3 episodes are very good. The cast is your standard good looking "teens". This Teen Wolf is much like the original movies...but more serious like "Vampire Diaries". I think the funny, quirky, serious combination works. Of course there is also the boy meets girl teen love scenes...meh.

The makeup is done very well and show appropriate. The general mix of horror and HS teen angst makes for another similarity of an I know what you did last summer and Scream...meets clueless.

This is a "record" me show so far at least. The story still seems strong.
Monday's at 8:00 I think

VOLTRON FORCE (Nicktoons)

2 HELL YEAH's out of 5


First, I don't want to hear it...yes I know it's Nicktoons...BUT they also show Dragonball Z which is one of the BEST ANIME series EVER!!!!

So the great and triumphant return of VOLTRON...is not so great or triumphant.
The art is weak and seems dated, the story and editing are childish, and they seem to be rehashing the same old stuff.

After the defeat of Lotor and Hagar the Galaxy Alliance decides to decommission VOLTRON. It doesn't really make sense but that's what they do. They enlist a couple (3) kids to act as cadets...who fight along side the original VOLTRON force. When Lotor is brought back to life, the original VOLTRON force must break the rules and bring VOLTRON back to life. MEH....

I remember the original as a kid and I know it was a bit hokey too..but it was at least a good action cartoon, even by today's standards. Watching this felt like I was watching a show geared towards 8 year olds....the REAL audience, and the makers should have known this, is 16-30 year olds who know and remember what VOLTRON is.
I get needing to make a kid friendly show, but lets not forget who wanted to bring the show back.

It's OK...but not something I'll watch going forward, and I was looking forward to it. Blah oh well. I still have the New Thundercats coming soon.

Falling Skies (TNT TV)

4 HELL YEAH's out of 5


Falling Skies reminds me of the "War of the Worlds" series. Aliens invade earth, start to take over for some unknown reason, while survivors flee for safety and fighters form a resistance.

This in a nutshell is Falling Skies.

What I liked and disliked was that the show dropped viewers into the action well after the invasion. At first I thought I missed something and as this was a 2 hour pilot episode. Nope I didn't and that was ultimately OK. The story and direction expertly weaved past and present story elements into conversation, so that you don't need to see the stroy from the beginning. I think we are so accustomed to that type of story telling (see the invasion, then destruction, then aftermath) that we expected it all the time. This was an unexpected delight, if a bit confusing at first.

Noah Wylie is great as usual, playing his brainy yet courageous character. The use of children, and eclectic cast make this show feel pretty real. The CGI is a bit "TV-ish" but that's to be expected. The writing feels right on, and I think this could be a show to record until it proves otherwise. If you like Scifi shows with human drama and alien adventure this will be the one for you.

GREEN LANTERN (2011 Movie)

3 HELL YEAH's out of 5



The Green Lantern has been around for more than 60 years but doesn't have the fan base of say a Batman or Superman. Often the most remembered of comic heroes however after being seen in comics, TV, or movies. (only 1 movie has been made with the Green Lantern)

A little History - The Green Lantern is basically a "Space Cop", whose job it is to protect their "sectors" of the universe. Hal Jordan, a test pilot was chosen to be the first human Green Lantern, when an alien craft crash lands on earth. The Alien dies and his ring seeks out a replacement wearer. The Power Ring works via the Power of WILL...which happens to be green. Other Powers also have colors associated with them...Yellow/fear, Red/Rage, Blue/Hope, etc... Ultimately the Green Lantern Mythos is one that spans the Universe, and has untold number of alien green lantern counterparts.

The Green Lantern Movie...starring Ryan Reynolds is flawed but still manages to capture some of the best parts of the Character.
What they did right:
First the casting was excellent. Mark Strong who plays Sinestro is PITCH PERFECT...in my option...HE IS SINESTRO. Reynolds GL is pretty good. This is a character that can go one of two ways...brash and cocky much like it was done in the film or brash but somewhat serious, which is what we see in the comics. Hal Jordan in the Comics is a bit of a Serious Paternal figure and not a jokester. They walked a line with the movie and did so very well.
Next, is the CGI. The CGI was excellent. I was a bit scared about the Suit when it was first previewed. BUT the finished product was RIGHT on. It looks organic, yet durable, and natural as if it was meant to be there. The Green Lantern planet OA is colorful and vibrant, and has an alien feel. Almost cartoony...but not too much. Instead you feel like a comic page has been brought to life. The other more alien lanterns are EXCELLENT. There are so many that fans will know who is who...others will just see awesome alien characters.
Lastly, the story or direction could have gone in one of two ways. Either keep everything on earth and encapsulate the story or have it span the universe in a LARGE scoping way. They chose to keep the story more grounded. I think this is fine as an introduction to a new character like the Green Lantern. However, they also included the necessary larger scope universal feel. As a viewer you do know that this guys world is so much bigger than just earth. Any sequels should definitely not revolve around earth.

What they did wrong:
I think the director didn't fully understand or get "comic book" movies or this character. He missed so many opportunities for that WOW factor, or the iconic imagery, and even fell a little short on the climax of the film. I did get goosebumps a few times but average viewer will not get what I got as a fan. This is really too bad.
Second, the strength of the character is also the weakness of this movie. Because the mythos is so large and expansive, keeping everything "earthbound" is lackluster. This also creates too much Ryan and Blake time on screen which is flat.
Next Editing is heavy handed. Some of the edits flash to other things going on and then back to earth again...it's better than nothing, and not hard to follow, but I would have liked more procedural context.
Lastly...when you have giant "world killer" monsters...you either nail or not...most movies do not, think Fantastic 4. Green Lantern hits a middle ground but doesn't nail it.

Overall this is a pretty good movie and I really hope the cost of making this one doesn't hurt future sequels. It was better than THOR, but nowhere near Batman, Iron Man, or a few other recent comic films. Still it's a good entry point. The next film (keeping my fingers crossed) should definitely be a UNIVERSE scope and deal with clashing lanterns corps (Green vs Yellow vs Red etc...)

I liked it, and recommend it. I didn't see it in 3D once I heard it was converted and not shot in 3D. I hate it when I hear that as usually the shots weren't setup for 3D and thus make a movie that's a waste of 3D money...both as a viewer and from a production point of view. I wonder how much money was spent on conversion?

Go see this film at a matinee or rent it...it's pretty good.