Gloria Oliver's Blog, page 79
August 18, 2013
Virtual Tourist - Dishonored 8/18/13
Morning! This one will be a quick this week. Have a time crunch. Wheee!
Dishonored
Flooded Zone
Wanted posters for the leader of the assassins. From what hubby tells me, he will be the character I play on some of the expansions.
The statue is of the empress. It's sad what's happened to this whole zone.
View back towards the palace.
Saw this then waited till it came by again to take a picture. Disturbing. If you look closely, you can see the wrapped corpses being tipped from the train down towards the water. *shiver*
Lots of the giant armored sentries here. The only way out of the zone is the electrified gateway down the train tracks. I've died several times here - been finding out things kind of like the hard way. lol.
Have an awesome Sunday!
Dishonored
Flooded Zone
Wanted posters for the leader of the assassins. From what hubby tells me, he will be the character I play on some of the expansions.
The statue is of the empress. It's sad what's happened to this whole zone.
View back towards the palace.
Saw this then waited till it came by again to take a picture. Disturbing. If you look closely, you can see the wrapped corpses being tipped from the train down towards the water. *shiver*
Lots of the giant armored sentries here. The only way out of the zone is the electrified gateway down the train tracks. I've died several times here - been finding out things kind of like the hard way. lol.
Have an awesome Sunday!
August 16, 2013
Movie Review - Elysium
Elysium
Starring: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga, Diego Luna, Wagner Moura, William Fichtner, Brandon Auret, Josh Blacker, Emma Tremblay, and more.
Directed by: Neill Blomkamp Written by: Neill Blomkamp Cinematography by: Trent Opaloch Original Music by: Ryan Amon
Premise: Living on a polluted and overpopulated Earth, Max always dreamed of going to Elysium. But when he takes a fatal dose of radiation during a work accident, finding a way to get to Elysium is the only way he might be able to save himself from an ugly, agonizing death. (Rated R)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Matt Damon did a great job as the disillusioned and dying anti-hero, Max. Jodie Foster's portrayal of Delacourt, the head of keeping Elysium secure, was chilling. Sharlto Copley was beautifully manic. It was a total treat to watch the cast interacting.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: The special effects team did some truly detailed work on the film. Elysium itself was definitely a work of art. There were also plenty of fun gadgets and robots to drool over. The healing beds were cool. And I totally fell in love with John Carlyle's personal transport.
The Cherry Blossom trees in the heart of Elysium with their petals blowing in the breeze were gorgeous. But aside from the symbolism they were meant to evoke, the placement seemed incredibly odd, since it was deep inside the station and not one of the 'people' areas.
Kruger's reconstruction scene was as awesome as it was unnerving.
3) Plot/Story - Neutral: On the story arc itself there was much to like. The fact Max was an anti-hero, and staunchly remained so for most of the film, was an usual direction and made the film more realistic and the ending more poignant as a result. There's also a silent moment where Delacourt truly realizes what is about to come to pass and her role in it all - how she was the one to bring her worst nightmare to life - and accepts responsibility in the only way left open to her.
Sadly, however, though the story itself worked very well, some of the science and world building around it, did not. While exoskeletons will give the wearer more strength and the ability to hold up more - Max's suit was missing a couple of vital pieces to allow him to do much of what he does. He uses his hand to bend a car's metal doorframe - but since he is using his bare hand, and not one in a hydraulic glove, his fingers would not have been able to exert the necessary pressure on the metal on their own. His feet have the same issue with regard to his kicks. While the exoskeleton would give him the power to exert that much force, his feet are not protected, so he would have broken one the first time he tried it.
The medical beds, while totally cool, could be found in every household in Elysium. This implied the technology was easy to mass produce. No reason was ever given as to why they could only be used in Elysium. (Like huge energy costs, or the need for super rare materials - though that would still be hard to believe as prevalent as the units seemed to be.) Since it was likely an Armadyne product, it made even less sense they wouldn't use it at their factories on Earth. Those in power might believe life was cheap, but educated/trained workers are hard to come by. Training a replacement would cost them more than just healing the injured party and putting them back to work. It would have also done wonders in cutting back the resentment from those stuck on Earth, able to only watch as Elysium drifted overhead with medical wonders that could have been used to heal their loved ones.
4) Stunts - Thumbs Up: Some good fights and stunts were sprinkled through the film. Most looked great as well, except when they descended to using the shaky cam. My husband took points off major points for that. Luckily, aside from one battle, they were sparing with the technique.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Filmed at several locations, including Mexico City and Bear Creek Park in Surrey British Columbia, they found the perfect spots for conveying the subpar Earth living and the idyllic existence in Elysium. (This is also a sad thing, as people really do live in such impoverished places.) The spanning shots of the city, but more so the ones of Elysium, were stunning.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: The makeup department did a spectacular job. Especially with Kruger's face and Max's head. For Kruger it was the ports and bits of tech he'd had embedded into his skin and seemed a part of him. Max's were obviously more of a 'hatchet job', which gave a nice subliminal contrast between the two men.
Conclusion: Great characters, good action scenes (except those spoiled by shaky cam), and cool visuals made "Elysium" quite entertaining. The bad science, bad world building, and shaky cam dragged it back from being a great film.
Rating: 3.75 out 5 (Hubby's Rating: Better for Matinee)
Starring: Matt Damon, Jodie Foster, Sharlto Copley, Alice Braga, Diego Luna, Wagner Moura, William Fichtner, Brandon Auret, Josh Blacker, Emma Tremblay, and more.
Directed by: Neill Blomkamp Written by: Neill Blomkamp Cinematography by: Trent Opaloch Original Music by: Ryan Amon
Premise: Living on a polluted and overpopulated Earth, Max always dreamed of going to Elysium. But when he takes a fatal dose of radiation during a work accident, finding a way to get to Elysium is the only way he might be able to save himself from an ugly, agonizing death. (Rated R)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Matt Damon did a great job as the disillusioned and dying anti-hero, Max. Jodie Foster's portrayal of Delacourt, the head of keeping Elysium secure, was chilling. Sharlto Copley was beautifully manic. It was a total treat to watch the cast interacting.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: The special effects team did some truly detailed work on the film. Elysium itself was definitely a work of art. There were also plenty of fun gadgets and robots to drool over. The healing beds were cool. And I totally fell in love with John Carlyle's personal transport.
The Cherry Blossom trees in the heart of Elysium with their petals blowing in the breeze were gorgeous. But aside from the symbolism they were meant to evoke, the placement seemed incredibly odd, since it was deep inside the station and not one of the 'people' areas.
Kruger's reconstruction scene was as awesome as it was unnerving.
3) Plot/Story - Neutral: On the story arc itself there was much to like. The fact Max was an anti-hero, and staunchly remained so for most of the film, was an usual direction and made the film more realistic and the ending more poignant as a result. There's also a silent moment where Delacourt truly realizes what is about to come to pass and her role in it all - how she was the one to bring her worst nightmare to life - and accepts responsibility in the only way left open to her.
Sadly, however, though the story itself worked very well, some of the science and world building around it, did not. While exoskeletons will give the wearer more strength and the ability to hold up more - Max's suit was missing a couple of vital pieces to allow him to do much of what he does. He uses his hand to bend a car's metal doorframe - but since he is using his bare hand, and not one in a hydraulic glove, his fingers would not have been able to exert the necessary pressure on the metal on their own. His feet have the same issue with regard to his kicks. While the exoskeleton would give him the power to exert that much force, his feet are not protected, so he would have broken one the first time he tried it.
The medical beds, while totally cool, could be found in every household in Elysium. This implied the technology was easy to mass produce. No reason was ever given as to why they could only be used in Elysium. (Like huge energy costs, or the need for super rare materials - though that would still be hard to believe as prevalent as the units seemed to be.) Since it was likely an Armadyne product, it made even less sense they wouldn't use it at their factories on Earth. Those in power might believe life was cheap, but educated/trained workers are hard to come by. Training a replacement would cost them more than just healing the injured party and putting them back to work. It would have also done wonders in cutting back the resentment from those stuck on Earth, able to only watch as Elysium drifted overhead with medical wonders that could have been used to heal their loved ones.
4) Stunts - Thumbs Up: Some good fights and stunts were sprinkled through the film. Most looked great as well, except when they descended to using the shaky cam. My husband took points off major points for that. Luckily, aside from one battle, they were sparing with the technique.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Filmed at several locations, including Mexico City and Bear Creek Park in Surrey British Columbia, they found the perfect spots for conveying the subpar Earth living and the idyllic existence in Elysium. (This is also a sad thing, as people really do live in such impoverished places.) The spanning shots of the city, but more so the ones of Elysium, were stunning.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: The makeup department did a spectacular job. Especially with Kruger's face and Max's head. For Kruger it was the ports and bits of tech he'd had embedded into his skin and seemed a part of him. Max's were obviously more of a 'hatchet job', which gave a nice subliminal contrast between the two men.
Conclusion: Great characters, good action scenes (except those spoiled by shaky cam), and cool visuals made "Elysium" quite entertaining. The bad science, bad world building, and shaky cam dragged it back from being a great film.
Rating: 3.75 out 5 (Hubby's Rating: Better for Matinee)
August 14, 2013
Picture Kaleidoscope 8/14/13
We moved offices a week ago as stage 1 peeps. I overheard the office manage say something about possibly holding a photo contest once all stages of the move were complete. She specifically mentioned black and white photos. I thought, hey I can do that! And so I snapped a couple of color pics of the mostly empty space and fired up my old old copy of photo shop elements for some fun.
These are the results...
The original hallway color pic.
Here is the same pic with the Abstract mod. Almost like modern art.
This one is my boss' favorite. It's kind of creepy too. I used a Plastic mod. It's as if the office got shrink wrapped
This is the second color pic. The few windows in the space are covered by an ivy trellis. Really nice. But no windows for me. :P
Black and white version
With a Crystal mod. Had to increase the size as it was hard to see
This one is the Emboss mod. Had to tweak it to make it more prevalent.
This one doesn't look like it's been modified unless you enlarge it. It's the Mossaic mod.
See you next time!
These are the results...
The original hallway color pic.
Here is the same pic with the Abstract mod. Almost like modern art.
This one is my boss' favorite. It's kind of creepy too. I used a Plastic mod. It's as if the office got shrink wrapped
This is the second color pic. The few windows in the space are covered by an ivy trellis. Really nice. But no windows for me. :P
Black and white version
With a Crystal mod. Had to increase the size as it was hard to see
This one is the Emboss mod. Had to tweak it to make it more prevalent.
This one doesn't look like it's been modified unless you enlarge it. It's the Mossaic mod.
See you next time!
August 12, 2013
Mind Sieve 8/12/13
Howdy folks!
Her Trailer 1 - weird premise, but AI's rule!
Thor: The Dark World Trailer 2 - looking better and better. :)
The Counselor Trailer 2 - I'm lukewarm on this one. Hmm
Enough Said Trailer 1 - quirky, and by the end of the trailer I was thinking it might be cute. Heh.
Muppets Most Wanted Teaser Trailer - SEQUEL! Looks like it could be fun. :)
Ender's Game Trailer 2 - so pumped!!!!
Sherlock Season 3 Teaser - they're so MEAN! So love this series!!!
100 Things to Tweet About Besides Yourself by Pam the Marketing Nut.
75 Things I Learned On My Journey To 100,000 Twitter Followers by Pam the Marketing Nut.
Gene Lempp's Writing Resources Insanity post for 10 August 2013!
Are Genre Stories More Stupid? by Jami Gold. Super awesome post! Go Jami!
Hope you have a terrific Monday!
Her Trailer 1 - weird premise, but AI's rule!
Thor: The Dark World Trailer 2 - looking better and better. :)
The Counselor Trailer 2 - I'm lukewarm on this one. Hmm
Enough Said Trailer 1 - quirky, and by the end of the trailer I was thinking it might be cute. Heh.
Muppets Most Wanted Teaser Trailer - SEQUEL! Looks like it could be fun. :)
Ender's Game Trailer 2 - so pumped!!!!
Sherlock Season 3 Teaser - they're so MEAN! So love this series!!!
100 Things to Tweet About Besides Yourself by Pam the Marketing Nut.
75 Things I Learned On My Journey To 100,000 Twitter Followers by Pam the Marketing Nut.
Gene Lempp's Writing Resources Insanity post for 10 August 2013!
Are Genre Stories More Stupid? by Jami Gold. Super awesome post! Go Jami!
Hope you have a terrific Monday!
August 11, 2013
Virtual Tourist - Neverwinter 8/11/13
Good morning!
Neverwinter
They do have the most gorgeous caverns!
So nice!
Scales
A woman of my own race.
Dwarf
Nice little village area
Just completed our horse quest. These are rentals. Love the weird coloring on mine.
Check out the awesome pic of the elf sorceress on the wall.
Deep in a mine.
They'd been excavating all sorts of statuary pieces.
She's beautiful
Baddie of the mine
Cragmire Keep
Hosed this one, but you can still see the cool altar thing.
And this is when a miracle happened! I finally figured out how to get rid of the UI for pics!!!!
Yes, it was startling. What I found funny is how they made sure the games name would show up on this mode.
Playing with the mouse so I can take better pics without all of us in them all the time. YAY!
They have the coolest doors.
Isn't this gorgeous?
The scurvy pirate!
His throne room. Nice!
My new hunking sword.
New armor and dye job. The cleric there tried to kill my pic. How rude!
Wofl informant. He really, really hates the bandits.
Have an awesome day!
Neverwinter
They do have the most gorgeous caverns!
So nice!
Scales
A woman of my own race.
Dwarf
Nice little village area
Just completed our horse quest. These are rentals. Love the weird coloring on mine.
Check out the awesome pic of the elf sorceress on the wall.
Deep in a mine.
They'd been excavating all sorts of statuary pieces.
She's beautiful
Baddie of the mine
Cragmire Keep
Hosed this one, but you can still see the cool altar thing.
And this is when a miracle happened! I finally figured out how to get rid of the UI for pics!!!!
Yes, it was startling. What I found funny is how they made sure the games name would show up on this mode.
Playing with the mouse so I can take better pics without all of us in them all the time. YAY!
They have the coolest doors.
Isn't this gorgeous?
The scurvy pirate!
His throne room. Nice!
My new hunking sword.
New armor and dye job. The cleric there tried to kill my pic. How rude!
Wofl informant. He really, really hates the bandits.Have an awesome day!
August 10, 2013
Movie Review - Turbo
(Sorry I'm late! Life conspired against me!)
Turbo
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Michael Peña, Samuel L Jackson, Luis Guzmán, Bill Hader, Snoop Dogg, Maya Rudolph, Ben Schwartz, Richard Jenkins, Ken Jeong, Michelle Rodriguez, Mario Andretti, Mike Bell, and more.
Directed by: David Soren Screenplay by: Darren Lemke, Robert D Siegel, and David Soren Cinematography by: Chris Stover Original Music by: Henry Jackman
Premise: Theo is a garden snail, but the slow toils of the garden where he lives just aren't for him. His dream is to become a racer, regardless of what his brother says or the fact he's almost an outcast within his own community. A freak accident with nitrous oxide after months of drinking his favorite racing hero's sponsored (and full of possible side effects) cola changes something inside Theo so that his body will move as fast as his dreams. But even after fate brings him to a kindred spirit, the human Tito, there are a lot of obstacles still to be overcome - not the least of which is his own brother. (Rated PG)
Review:
1) Voice Acting - Total Thumbs Up: "Turbo" has nice voice acting work by all involved. Ryan Reynolds really brings through Turbo's yearning for racing as well as his utter bafflement with regards to his brother not understanding what drives him. Paul Giamatti did a great job as Chet, easily conveying Theo's brother's frustrations and worries. Samuel L Jackson was fun as Whiplash, the 'not quite sane' leader of the racing snail group at Starlight Plaza. The decision of getting Bill Hader to play Guy Gagné proved a great choice, as Hader gave Guy just the right amount of suave and sleaze, depending on the situation.
2) Artwork/Animation - Total Thumbs Up: As usual Dreamworks delivers a gorgeous piece of animation. From the factory like garden environs of the snails to the racing track of the Indianapolis 500, there is meticulous attention to detail. So despite the mind boggling premise with it's necessary 'suspension of disbelief', it's not hard at all to accept that the world portrayed in "Turbo" is real.
There are several visual gags and repeated bits throughout the film. Make sure to sit through part of the credits as a recurring moment finally gets a resolution and a laugh.
3) Story/Plot - Thumbs Up: Despite my own eagerness to see this film, I'd been wondering exactly how they planned to pull off the main premise, and if they could do so in a satisfying manner. I was actually quite pleasantly surprised by their choices! "Turbo" is not one of those contrived arrangements where the hero gets to his final goal without any realistic hardships. The story actually places real life stumbling blocks in the hero's path, like the need for big money to pay entry fees, or the fact it takes more than just dreaming to reach your goals.
Another surprise were the two concurrent themes with regards to brothers and dreamers - not only do we get the struggle between Theo (the dreamer) and his older brother Chet (the pragmatist), we also get the same friction on a human level with the Dos Bros Taco stand owners, Tito and Angelo. So "Turbo" actually tackles some quite emotional and adult themes.
Conclusion: "Turbo" was a lot of fun on several levels. It's more adult in themes than one would expect, but still has a lot of 'gags' and action to keep both kids and adults well entertained. And if you're a racing fan, there's even more to love! Don't forget to sit through part of the credits.
Rating: 4 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price To See Again)
Turbo
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Paul Giamatti, Michael Peña, Samuel L Jackson, Luis Guzmán, Bill Hader, Snoop Dogg, Maya Rudolph, Ben Schwartz, Richard Jenkins, Ken Jeong, Michelle Rodriguez, Mario Andretti, Mike Bell, and more.
Directed by: David Soren Screenplay by: Darren Lemke, Robert D Siegel, and David Soren Cinematography by: Chris Stover Original Music by: Henry Jackman
Premise: Theo is a garden snail, but the slow toils of the garden where he lives just aren't for him. His dream is to become a racer, regardless of what his brother says or the fact he's almost an outcast within his own community. A freak accident with nitrous oxide after months of drinking his favorite racing hero's sponsored (and full of possible side effects) cola changes something inside Theo so that his body will move as fast as his dreams. But even after fate brings him to a kindred spirit, the human Tito, there are a lot of obstacles still to be overcome - not the least of which is his own brother. (Rated PG)
Review:
1) Voice Acting - Total Thumbs Up: "Turbo" has nice voice acting work by all involved. Ryan Reynolds really brings through Turbo's yearning for racing as well as his utter bafflement with regards to his brother not understanding what drives him. Paul Giamatti did a great job as Chet, easily conveying Theo's brother's frustrations and worries. Samuel L Jackson was fun as Whiplash, the 'not quite sane' leader of the racing snail group at Starlight Plaza. The decision of getting Bill Hader to play Guy Gagné proved a great choice, as Hader gave Guy just the right amount of suave and sleaze, depending on the situation.
2) Artwork/Animation - Total Thumbs Up: As usual Dreamworks delivers a gorgeous piece of animation. From the factory like garden environs of the snails to the racing track of the Indianapolis 500, there is meticulous attention to detail. So despite the mind boggling premise with it's necessary 'suspension of disbelief', it's not hard at all to accept that the world portrayed in "Turbo" is real.
There are several visual gags and repeated bits throughout the film. Make sure to sit through part of the credits as a recurring moment finally gets a resolution and a laugh.
3) Story/Plot - Thumbs Up: Despite my own eagerness to see this film, I'd been wondering exactly how they planned to pull off the main premise, and if they could do so in a satisfying manner. I was actually quite pleasantly surprised by their choices! "Turbo" is not one of those contrived arrangements where the hero gets to his final goal without any realistic hardships. The story actually places real life stumbling blocks in the hero's path, like the need for big money to pay entry fees, or the fact it takes more than just dreaming to reach your goals.
Another surprise were the two concurrent themes with regards to brothers and dreamers - not only do we get the struggle between Theo (the dreamer) and his older brother Chet (the pragmatist), we also get the same friction on a human level with the Dos Bros Taco stand owners, Tito and Angelo. So "Turbo" actually tackles some quite emotional and adult themes.
Conclusion: "Turbo" was a lot of fun on several levels. It's more adult in themes than one would expect, but still has a lot of 'gags' and action to keep both kids and adults well entertained. And if you're a racing fan, there's even more to love! Don't forget to sit through part of the credits.
Rating: 4 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price To See Again)
August 7, 2013
Picture Kaleidoscope 8/7/13
It's Weeeeeennnndddddaaaaaayyyy!
(Though I thought it was Wednesday most of yesterday...DOH)
Giant Boabab Under The African Sky by Mark Dumbleton from Earthshots.org
Mark Dumbleton even has a cool Africa Timelaspse.
Too cute! Just a Little Kiss by Laura Dyer at Earthshots.org. Lots of animal shots from all over at her site. Nice!
Love the color composition. Shredded by Erez Marom at Earthshots.org
A ton of amazing pics at Erez Marom's awesome site! This one is titled Gone Fishing. I'm a scucker for skies on fire. :)
Amazing Skateboarding Self-Portraits by Fabiano Rodriguez by Peta Pixel. Fabino's website. I really like this first image. A tons more in the article at Peta Pixel.
Have an awesome day!
(Though I thought it was Wednesday most of yesterday...DOH)
Giant Boabab Under The African Sky by Mark Dumbleton from Earthshots.org
Mark Dumbleton even has a cool Africa Timelaspse.
Too cute! Just a Little Kiss by Laura Dyer at Earthshots.org. Lots of animal shots from all over at her site. Nice!
Love the color composition. Shredded by Erez Marom at Earthshots.org
A ton of amazing pics at Erez Marom's awesome site! This one is titled Gone Fishing. I'm a scucker for skies on fire. :)
Amazing Skateboarding Self-Portraits by Fabiano Rodriguez by Peta Pixel. Fabino's website. I really like this first image. A tons more in the article at Peta Pixel.
Have an awesome day!
August 5, 2013
Mind Sieve 8/5/13
And it's a new week! Brrrroom!
American Hustle Trailer - looks funky but lots of great names in this one.
Lone Survivor Trailer - more great names
Stumbled over this one - Aurora Official Kickstarter Teaser Trailer 1 - Looks interesting
Unfortunately your browser does not support IFrames.Breaking News | Celebrity News | More ABC News Videos
Cool little video compressing Curiosity's Martian Journey into 2 minutes. You can walk around Mars with this! Heh heh. Full story from ABC
FaceBook Embedded Posts - This Week in Social Media from The Social Media Examiner - article by Cindy King - Ooo a new way to share stuff from FB outside of FB!
26 Tips to Enhance Your Social Media Profile from The Social Media Examiner - article by Debbie Hemley
From Chuck (NSFW) Wendig - Ten Thoughts On Story. Great kernels all over the place.
Learning To Drop The Donkey - Is Perfectionism Killing Your Career? from Kristen Lamb. Lots of food for thought.
For more awesome reading, Gene Lempp once more has a tone of resources listed on Writing Resources 03 August 2013.
Have a GREAT week!
American Hustle Trailer - looks funky but lots of great names in this one.
Lone Survivor Trailer - more great names
Stumbled over this one - Aurora Official Kickstarter Teaser Trailer 1 - Looks interesting
Unfortunately your browser does not support IFrames.Breaking News | Celebrity News | More ABC News Videos
Cool little video compressing Curiosity's Martian Journey into 2 minutes. You can walk around Mars with this! Heh heh. Full story from ABC
FaceBook Embedded Posts - This Week in Social Media from The Social Media Examiner - article by Cindy King - Ooo a new way to share stuff from FB outside of FB!
26 Tips to Enhance Your Social Media Profile from The Social Media Examiner - article by Debbie Hemley
From Chuck (NSFW) Wendig - Ten Thoughts On Story. Great kernels all over the place.
Learning To Drop The Donkey - Is Perfectionism Killing Your Career? from Kristen Lamb. Lots of food for thought.
For more awesome reading, Gene Lempp once more has a tone of resources listed on Writing Resources 03 August 2013.
Have a GREAT week!
August 4, 2013
Virtual Tourist - Star Wars The Old Republic 8/4/13
Morning all!
Star Wars The Old Republic
Imperial Spy
Quesh
This made me think of Batman and Ironman and how they hang their suits. Heh heh
The Imperial Station in Quesh orbit. I so love those 3D map holograms. :)
Quesh in all it's deadly glory
Pretty much everything here is toxic. But those same toxic components make for awesome adrenals. And for controlling Imperial Spies...
Just outside the Empire's main base
Quesh Flora
Those far off buildings do have a somewhat Hutt architecture feel. Hmm
Main Imperial military peeps on Quesh
Some of the unfriendly fauna
I set up several bombs then got to watch the Republic walkers go BOOM. Nice.
Local fauna bathing in acid pools.
Republic mining operations
More imperial sabotage by yours truly
Toxic is truly a mild word for this place. Heh heh. (And now I have the song running through my head.)
Have a great Sunday!
Star Wars The Old Republic
Imperial Spy
Quesh
This made me think of Batman and Ironman and how they hang their suits. Heh heh
The Imperial Station in Quesh orbit. I so love those 3D map holograms. :)
Quesh in all it's deadly glory
Pretty much everything here is toxic. But those same toxic components make for awesome adrenals. And for controlling Imperial Spies...
Just outside the Empire's main base
Quesh Flora
Those far off buildings do have a somewhat Hutt architecture feel. Hmm
Main Imperial military peeps on Quesh
Some of the unfriendly fauna
I set up several bombs then got to watch the Republic walkers go BOOM. Nice.
Local fauna bathing in acid pools.
Republic mining operations
More imperial sabotage by yours truly
Toxic is truly a mild word for this place. Heh heh. (And now I have the song running through my head.)Have a great Sunday!
August 2, 2013
Movie Review - The Wolverine
The Wolverine
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Tao Okamoto, Rila Fukushima, Hiroyuki Sanada, Svetlana Khodchenkova, Brian Tee, Hal Yamanouchi, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee, Ken Yamamura, and more.
Directed by: James Mangold Screenplay by: Mark Bomback and Scott Frank Based on Characters from: Marvel Comics Cinematography by: Ross Emery Original Music by: Marco Beltrami
Premise: Hiding from humanity and living alone with his emotional demons, Logan is found by Yukio, a young Japanese swordswoman, who's spent the last year trying to track him down. She asks him to come with her to Japan, to visit Yashida, the Japanese soldier whose life Logan had saved during the bombing of Nagasaki during World War II. Yashida wishes to offer his old savior a boon for his kind act so long ago - he wants to give Logan the one thing he's longed for, but couldn't achieve on his own - an escape from the extended life that is a side effect of his mutation. (Rated PG-13)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Hugh Jackman reprises his role as the mutant Wolverine with all the attitude and aplomb the character is so well known for. Tao Okamoto did great as Mariko, showing both amazing strength of will and empathic femininity. Svetlana Khodchenkova was a lot of fun as Viper. Kudos to Famke Janssen as Jean Grey and all the creepiness and bittersweet moments she added to Logan's nightmares.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: From Wolverine's bone claws to the exploding bomb over Nagasaki, the effects throughout the film were top notch. The bullet train sequence and its similarity to a Western topside train battle but at almost three hundred miles an hour was a 'hoot'. The effects of Viper's touch and the visuals that went with it were nicely done. The giant adamantium samurai with the flaming sword was entirely too cool.
I also totally loved Yashida's reactive bed and his body scanner. (I want them!)
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: Back in the 80's I read a ton of comics and one of my favorites were the Wolverine stories of his time in Japan. While a lot of details may have changed, in general the film stays true to a lot of the original and reimagined information about Wolverine. Just the fact they put ninjas, yakuza, and a bullet train fight and did them right was more than enough to win me over.
There were several crisscrossing underlying themes of honor, responsibility, and self worth throughout the film. Emotional clashes between love, duty, and family were also abundant. The movie was paced well, and the plot convoluted and multifaceted.
The only marring point was over the final villain. I would have been better satisfied by their choice if some explanation, other than the obvious yet 'hard to swallow' reason had been given for the actions taken - a tumor, radiation, poison - anything. It's sad when the gaijin (the foreigner) has more honor than the samurai around him. (Though I did later get the odd feeling that perhaps a subconscious part of this last villain purposely set some things into motion to defeat his own mad desires, knowing deep down he was in the wrong - but then again, this might be wishful thinking.)
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: Ninjas! Did I mention there were ninjas in the film? A ton of ninjas! It was great watching all those men in black running around in the shadows doing what they do best. The attack on the main house was fantastic. And getting to watch a ninja and yakuza showdown? Awesome! The choreography on the fighting and chase scenes was phenomenal. I especially enjoyed the fight and chase which ensued at the funeral. It was multidimensional!
Of some note is the scene when Logan enters the village. The actions by the group of ninja and the visuals of Logan during that determined attempt to get to Mariko were very reminiscent of a similar scene with Toshiro Mifune and of the great Akira Kurosawa's works.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Though many scenes in this film were done in Australia, many others were actually filmed in Japan. This was great because as part of the chases across the country, we got to see many iconic spots of Japanese daily life - pachinko parlors, themed love hotels, bullet trains, traditional and modern Japanese architecture, and more.
Add to that the multidimensional filming, especially during the fight and chase sequence from the funeral, and the whole thing was visually delectable. The images of Logan and the guards fighting the yakuza from the ground, while from the rooftops and wires and beams over them Harada used his ninja skills and his bow to kill foes around them from a distance, made for a fantastic scene.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: Great job by the costuming department with regards to period clothing and of course outfitting our favorite Wolverine in his signature comic book clothes. Viper's outfits outside of work did well in giving her a snakelike overtone even before we find out more about her. Nice job too on how they carried over Yashida's scar over time.
7) Music - Total Thumbs Up: The talents of Marco Beltrami added so much to the film! I very much enjoyed the Japanese flare he introduced to several of his pieces, which added to the mystique and gave homage to this foreign land. (On a side note, Beltrami seemed to have some fun naming his song list. Included are "Logan's Run" and "The Hidden Fortress" - fun word play with the action occurring in the scenes they were used in and of films of the same name.)
Conclusion: "The Wolverine" is a fun thrill ride with the added bonus of an oriental feel. Definitely a must see if you love the character and have any interest in things Japanese. One of the better films I've seen this year!
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price to See Again)
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Tao Okamoto, Rila Fukushima, Hiroyuki Sanada, Svetlana Khodchenkova, Brian Tee, Hal Yamanouchi, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee, Ken Yamamura, and more.
Directed by: James Mangold Screenplay by: Mark Bomback and Scott Frank Based on Characters from: Marvel Comics Cinematography by: Ross Emery Original Music by: Marco Beltrami
Premise: Hiding from humanity and living alone with his emotional demons, Logan is found by Yukio, a young Japanese swordswoman, who's spent the last year trying to track him down. She asks him to come with her to Japan, to visit Yashida, the Japanese soldier whose life Logan had saved during the bombing of Nagasaki during World War II. Yashida wishes to offer his old savior a boon for his kind act so long ago - he wants to give Logan the one thing he's longed for, but couldn't achieve on his own - an escape from the extended life that is a side effect of his mutation. (Rated PG-13)
Review:
1) Acting - Total Thumbs Up: Hugh Jackman reprises his role as the mutant Wolverine with all the attitude and aplomb the character is so well known for. Tao Okamoto did great as Mariko, showing both amazing strength of will and empathic femininity. Svetlana Khodchenkova was a lot of fun as Viper. Kudos to Famke Janssen as Jean Grey and all the creepiness and bittersweet moments she added to Logan's nightmares.
2) Special Effects - Total Thumbs Up: From Wolverine's bone claws to the exploding bomb over Nagasaki, the effects throughout the film were top notch. The bullet train sequence and its similarity to a Western topside train battle but at almost three hundred miles an hour was a 'hoot'. The effects of Viper's touch and the visuals that went with it were nicely done. The giant adamantium samurai with the flaming sword was entirely too cool.
I also totally loved Yashida's reactive bed and his body scanner. (I want them!)
3) Plot/Story - Thumbs Up: Back in the 80's I read a ton of comics and one of my favorites were the Wolverine stories of his time in Japan. While a lot of details may have changed, in general the film stays true to a lot of the original and reimagined information about Wolverine. Just the fact they put ninjas, yakuza, and a bullet train fight and did them right was more than enough to win me over.
There were several crisscrossing underlying themes of honor, responsibility, and self worth throughout the film. Emotional clashes between love, duty, and family were also abundant. The movie was paced well, and the plot convoluted and multifaceted.
The only marring point was over the final villain. I would have been better satisfied by their choice if some explanation, other than the obvious yet 'hard to swallow' reason had been given for the actions taken - a tumor, radiation, poison - anything. It's sad when the gaijin (the foreigner) has more honor than the samurai around him. (Though I did later get the odd feeling that perhaps a subconscious part of this last villain purposely set some things into motion to defeat his own mad desires, knowing deep down he was in the wrong - but then again, this might be wishful thinking.)
4) Stunts - Total Thumbs Up: Ninjas! Did I mention there were ninjas in the film? A ton of ninjas! It was great watching all those men in black running around in the shadows doing what they do best. The attack on the main house was fantastic. And getting to watch a ninja and yakuza showdown? Awesome! The choreography on the fighting and chase scenes was phenomenal. I especially enjoyed the fight and chase which ensued at the funeral. It was multidimensional!
Of some note is the scene when Logan enters the village. The actions by the group of ninja and the visuals of Logan during that determined attempt to get to Mariko were very reminiscent of a similar scene with Toshiro Mifune and of the great Akira Kurosawa's works.
5) Locations/Cinematography - Total Thumbs Up: Though many scenes in this film were done in Australia, many others were actually filmed in Japan. This was great because as part of the chases across the country, we got to see many iconic spots of Japanese daily life - pachinko parlors, themed love hotels, bullet trains, traditional and modern Japanese architecture, and more.
Add to that the multidimensional filming, especially during the fight and chase sequence from the funeral, and the whole thing was visually delectable. The images of Logan and the guards fighting the yakuza from the ground, while from the rooftops and wires and beams over them Harada used his ninja skills and his bow to kill foes around them from a distance, made for a fantastic scene.
6) Costuming/Makeup - Total Thumbs Up: Great job by the costuming department with regards to period clothing and of course outfitting our favorite Wolverine in his signature comic book clothes. Viper's outfits outside of work did well in giving her a snakelike overtone even before we find out more about her. Nice job too on how they carried over Yashida's scar over time.
7) Music - Total Thumbs Up: The talents of Marco Beltrami added so much to the film! I very much enjoyed the Japanese flare he introduced to several of his pieces, which added to the mystique and gave homage to this foreign land. (On a side note, Beltrami seemed to have some fun naming his song list. Included are "Logan's Run" and "The Hidden Fortress" - fun word play with the action occurring in the scenes they were used in and of films of the same name.)
Conclusion: "The Wolverine" is a fun thrill ride with the added bonus of an oriental feel. Definitely a must see if you love the character and have any interest in things Japanese. One of the better films I've seen this year!
Rating: 4.25 out of 5 (Hubby's Rating: Worth Paying Full Price to See Again)
