journeythroughthemedias

[journeythroughthemedias]

The Punisher

Ever since season two of Daredevil, I was ready for the continuation of Frank Castle’s story. Waiting one year and eight months in anticipation was definitely worth it, because The Punisher surpassed all of Netflix’s Marvel titles and my expectations. In a day, I finished the season greatly satisfied and wanting more.

There wasn’t much I knew about The Punisher, other than the basic knowledge of a man who lost his entire family, which drove him to become the merciless vigilante and anti-hero. There have been several film adaptations of Frank Castle: The Punisher (1989), The Punisher (2004), and Punisher: War Zone (2008). The first two tweaked his origin story, family, and created new archenemies; although the 2004 version did have Russian, a villain in the comics, and Dave who is based on Microchip. War Zone, set six years after his family’s death, was probably closest to the comics, as Microchip was a partner and Jigsaw the nemesis. He’s also made two appearances in Spider-Man: The Animated Series, which I vaguely remember (damn, I’m old). Other than the knowledge of the films’ existence and old memories, he was totally out of my radar in the Marvel-verse. But, based on merchandise I’ve seen, the films made an impact on his popularity, especially with males and fathers (unless they were worn for the cool design). Besides the orchestra of violence, unlike most action films Frank’s story has plot and goals with a backdrop of misery that makes one understand, approve, or question his morals; approve seems to be the leading factor.

With Netflix’s The Punisher, it was pretty much a character study about a man who went through a traumatic ordeal, but has always been haunted by a deep need inside him--a part of himself he had been afraid to accept until his family was killed. And let’s not forget the acknowledgement of veterans and PTSD. Many fans of the comics are military and police officers who relate to Castle and his ideals; something Jon Bernthal understood. It’s a big deal how the military and veterans are represented in media--they are seen more heroic and less human. Bernthal played a man who battles everyday with his past, his loss, and himself. What seemed to be the best remedy, even for Frank, is to have someone who understands the pain and suffering. Micro/David Liebermann (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), Curtis Hoyle (Jason R. Moore), and Karen Page (Deborah Ann Woll) were people in Frank’s new life who brought back what little of himself there was left before Punisher. 

As far as the MCU goes, there were no supernatural elements. So long ninjas, aliens, and immortals, and hello normals. A refreshing turn to say the least. And like Daredevil and its MCU counter parts, the series follow the comics... in a certain way. We get to see Jigsaw’s origin and other villainous appearances, as well as Micro, which could only mean a season two! Frank’s origin is true to the comics, but was extended to make room for further development in his overall arc.

Needless to say, I loved it. Truly and absolutely loved it. The Karen Page moments were small, but impactful. David’s and Frank’s relationship was humorous and wholesome. Iranian characters with an Iranian cast (except Amber Rose Revah who is of Polish-Kenyan-Indian origin). And let’s not forget the eye candy moments...

10/10! For the series, obviously...

#the punisher #netflix #jon bernthal #mcu #marvel #blog #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

DC: Rebirth

Everyone, or almost everyone, had to at least seen one DC movie. Whether it was Tim Burton’s or Nolan’s Batman films, that weird Superman movie with Kevin Spacey or Snyder’s Man of Steel, or the recent hit Wonder Woman. I grew up watching all those films, including DC’s animation series like Teen Titans, Batman Beyond, Justice League, and Young Justice. But never considered myself a fan of DC, since I had no idea what was happening in the comics, the original source of our beloved superheroes. My dad was a huge comic book nerd as a kid--exclusively Marvel--and he would tell me the differences between the Spider-Man he read and Toby McGuire’s Spider-Man. Before there was a Doctor Strange film, he would go on and on about the sorcerer being his favorite hero, even when I had no idea who he was talking about.

Media gives only snippets of what our heroes are about, so when I discovered the existence of Supersons I was ecstatic; Superman finally has a son with Lois Lane... but as far as I knew, wasn’t he with Wonder Woman in the New 52, and what about Conner (Superboy)? Confused, I found Dave’s DC: Rebirth reading order and am continuing the relaunch to this day. Although new to DC comics, reading die hard fans’ comments on villain appearances, the Watchmen crossover, and theories makes me realize how much of a big deal Rebirth is. Apparently villains and heroes who haven‘t been seen in years or considered dead from the New 52 have made appearances like Mxyzptlk; someone I’ve never heard of, but evidently should due to the excitement his appearance caused. There was also Cyborg Superman, a character I was familiar with but whose backstory I had no knowledge of. Then there’s the Convergence of the original and New 52 Multiverses, which--honestly--I have no idea how to explain, but it’s the reason Lois and Clark are together now. There’s so much going on (Tim Drake’s and Batwoman’s future, Dark Nights: Metal, the Doomsday Clock and Dr. Manhattan), and an infectious frenzy among fans making me eager for what’s coming; even when I have to research half of what’s going on in order to keep up with all the references to previous multiverses and timelines. After so many years of watching these characters on a screen, I can finally say I truly know them better than I ever had before by reading them.

For some time, I thought Shazam was my favorite DC hero, but now I think Damian Wayne is. That boy is sass central.

#dc #comics #dc rebirth #blog #jttm

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Rage of Bahamut: Virgin Soul

It took a long time for my sister to finally convince me to watch Rage of Bahamut: Genesis the year it came out (2014). To this day, I don't know why I kept putting it off, because the animation and colors alone was worth taking a look at, as one would expect from MAPPA (Terror in Resonance, Garo: The Animation, Yuri on Ice). And my sister, as usual, was right to convince me. A great fantasy genre with a superb story and characters who learn of sacrifice, the consequences that come with it, and how to live with it. Ten years after the events of Genesis, Virgin Soul introduced us to a new protagonist who immediately became my favorite female anime character after Olivier Armstrong (FullMetal Alchemist). Nina is a vibrant and fearless girl who is half-human/half-dragon, and can transform into a dragon; reminded me of Saskia from The Witcher 2. A bit of a romantic myself, I really liked how the plot turned when Nina realized she fell in love with the enemy, and yet she didn’t let it affect her morals. She knew who to fight for and still regarded the king as a tyrant even if she did consider him her one true love.

Then there are the character deaths, which Rage of the Bahamut has no qualms with, and I was especially taken aback by who they killed off in Virgin Soul; like yelling at my screen “what the fuck??” surprised. They even teased deaths, which did not do good things to my heart. As a sequel, it did a great job introducing old and new characters and their importance to the story. There were references to Genesis, but Virgin Soul still retained its own story and obstacles (besides Bahamut, of course). Overall, Virgin Souls was my favorite anime of the season(s) with its humor, drama, fantasy, action, and romance.

#shingeki no bahamut #rage of bahamut #anime #mappa #blog #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

American Gods

So, my cousin/roommate was stoked about this series since he read the book by Neil Gaiman. Can’t say I was as enthusiastic as him when I first heard of it. But, as per usual, I’m usually prodded then forced to watch things other people want me to see. First episode, I certainly was not convinced. Where are the gods? Who the fuck is Shadow? Is he a god? Who’s the creepy/funny old man? And is that a buff leprechaun (not that I’m complaining)? There were things happening and being said, but nothing was getting through to me. If it weren’t for my cousin answering my silly questions, I’m not sure if I would have continued. And thank Odin I continued.

Gaiman’s interpretation of how the old gods would thrive in our modern era is ingenious, as well as his take on what todays society worships: Media, Technology, and Globalization. What’s fascinating was how subtle the Old Gods’ introductions were. They weren’t revealed in any grandiose capacity even though they’re... gods, but were usually seen doing mundane and very human activities to display their lack of power in this modern world; whereas the New Gods were all show and glamour. Now, there are those who are not equipped with a head of every mythology and god, which I too am not, and I am positive references to mythologies and such flew over my head. But any lack of knowledge did not deter the story nor distracted me. Plus you’ve got Google; research as you watch. Shadow’s character and importance still eludes me, but, due to my insistence, my cousin shared who he’s supposed to be... and I’m still eluded.

Probably my favorite aspect of the series were Gaiman’s perception of Jesus and the Egyptian gods (my weakness). First time we see Jesus is with a group of Mexicans crossing the border and then sacrifices himself so they can get safely across. The whole scene felt like it came out of one my grandma’s novelas: cheesy effects, slow motion, heightened/overdramatic music. But in all seriousness, Christianity is the driving force to most Hispanic cultures, and their display of faith in Jesus to save them was powerful, yet somber. Then in Easter’s home there were hundreds of hippy Jesus’ representing the world’s diverse concepts of the Lord and Savior; a very bold and realistic ideology.

For my beloved Egyptian gods, Anubis is still the intermediary of death and the afterlife, and Thoth has been writing everyone’s history since their migration to the Americas. Unlike the other gods, they’re as cool as a cucumber and continue their roles without bitterness or any sense of misfortune. They don’t need acknowledgement or worship from mortals; they observe everything from a distance and take action when need be.

American Gods is new, fascinating, beautiful, and educational. Gaiman’s knowledge of mythology is not unheard of, since his DC comic series Sandman and, his most recently published work, Norse Mythology. Prepare yourself though for some weirdness, because it is definitely out there--as most mythologies are. But I promise, you will most definitely enjoy it.

#american gods #TV #blog #neil gaiman #jttm

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This is exactly what we need in our lives.

#the dark crystal: age of resistance #the dark crystal #netflix #teaser

[journeythroughthemedias]

Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 2

It’s been a really long time since I’ve been so excited for a movie. Guardians of the Galaxy is a Marvel film kind of in league with Deadpool with the unorthodox heroes who do heroic things without really meaning to. The humor is beyond what one would expect, making you pee in your pants from laughing. And the characters differ by personality, their type of humor, down to their hobbies. They get into fights a lot, like any weird family would (*ahem* like mine *ahem*), but they love each other all the same. Which is why I prefer it to the Avengers, where it just feels like an ensemble of heroes who get together for convenience and crack jokes like co-workers. Most of all, the soundtrack does not disappoint.

As hilarious as the film was, there were a few cringing parts. My biggest complaint is the dialogue. It happened at least three to four times throughout where a character breaks out into this awkward monologue stating their woes like a Shakespearean play. Since this happened more than once, I can’t help but consider it was intentional; for what purpose, I haven’t a clue. It could be to add a dramatic effect that is not meant to be taken seriously. There was also the first act which dragged a little, not really getting much action or what the plot is after many minutes in. It was all introduction, exposition, and what our Guardians are trying to deal with: each other. Despite what the film lacked, it was a blast. My cousin and I laughed so hard in countless scenes: Drax’s blunt and honest statements, Quill’s nerdy-ness, Gamora’s angry huffs, Rocket’s need for anarchy, adorable baby Groot shaking his booty to Quill’s music, and Nebula rolling her eyes at this strange family dynamic. If I could, I’d watch this again for the kicks and fun, the music, space battles, and Rocket. Definitely a must see for any Marvel or comedy fan.

#guardians of the galaxy #guardians of the galaxy: vol. 2 #blog #marvel #jttm #film

[journeythroughthemedias]

Feud: Bette and Joan

I fell in love with the show just by the trailer alone. Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon are actors who do not disappoint--women who give their all in their performances and have years of experience under their heels. This time around a challenge presented itself; the portrayal of two other actors who were stars of the silent era and lived through the era of sound, then color. Becoming what these women were down to their flaws, psyche, and redeemable qualities is a remarkable feat, and one they did excruciating well at. Everyone I’ve conversed with have been indifferent with the start of the series. However, I can promise you things really pick up at episode three of this eight episode story. So, keep at it if you decided to temporarily put it on hold. The final episode is a must see for a beautiful piece of television when Joan hallucinates. Beyond the hilarious feud between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis, Feud also delves into the role of women in the film industry and why these star actresses fell from grace as the decades rolled by. Film industries weren’t looking for middle aged women to star in their movies. Young, beautiful, and plump women were what they sought after, and what audiences paid to see. What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? was supposed to be their way of making a comeback and kicking the stereotype to the curb. But not everyone involved got what they wanted. Bette enjoyed the spotlight from her stellar performance, and the director, Robert Aldrich, went to make a film of his choosing. Joan suffered from the lack of callbacks to make other features, and even more so when Bette was nominated for best actress instead of herself. What Joan valued most was her appearance--the face of an actress needs to be a glamorous star. Bette, though, was revered for her skills and ability to push boundaries. Whether the feud between these two women is actually true can be called for some skepticism. Olivia de Havilland, played by Catherine Zeta-Jones in Feud and the only person alive who knew Joan and Bette personally, gave her witty remark to Hollywood Reporter about her lack of interest in the show. Fact or fiction, as a stand alone show it was worth a watch with its lovely period piece decadence, music, humor, and performances.

#feud: bette and joan #fx #tv #blog #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

Beauty and the Beast (2017)

Currently in the middle of watching a whole lot of things at once, so I’ll post something else that is past/recent. My first impression of the movie when I saw the trailer was total awe of the cinematography and the castle’s magical grandeur. My childhood was coming to life. Of course, a cousin had to ruin it when he pointed out how awful Ewan McGregor’s French accent for Lumiere was. “Why couldn’t they just leave it British like the rest of the cast?” he asked. Well... he’s not wrong about the authenticity of the accent. Part of Lumiere’s character is the French accent--his trademark, so there really was no choice in that matter. Maybe they could have made another casting choice... b-but it’s Ewan McGregor. Who can say no to him?

The film was overwhelming in a good and bad way; there was so much to look at with very little time. The set design was extremely detailed, most notably in the Beast’s quarters. I would describe what it looked like to you, but the camera moved so fast and in a blur I couldn’t absorb what I was seeing in time. Another example of fast camera movement was when we were first introduced to Belle’s room. It was blue with a hard focus on the gold vines hanging from the ceiling which, I believe, had angels on them like the ballroom scene in the animated picture. There was also a bed and some other furnishings. When we land on Belle she says with genuine fascination, “It’s beautiful.” I’ll take her word for it, because I wasn’t sure what I was seeing.

The Be Our Guest scene was Disney euphoria at it’s finest. Kitchenware were flying around and coming at you. Characters as inanimate objects are having a splendid time singing and dancing and making you feel hungry for the feast prepped for Belle (I don’t think she ate anything but the dessert at the end). If you’ve ever seen Disney World’s PhilharMagic Concert, then it’s not far off from making the audience feel they are in the middle of this whimsical musical.

Speaking of musicals, it was very much like watching one, and reminded me of the Beauty and the Beast stage production in Disney World’s Hollywood Studios; just with more oomph and style. However, I have to say Beast’s number, Evermore, (performed by Dan Stevens) was not as moving as If I Can’t Love Her  in the Broadway production; the lyrics are better. It’s a shame, because Dan Stevens’ voice was really nice and the instrumentals, gorgeous.

Overall, it was a beautiful film, from what I was able to see, with new twists that strayed from the animation (good twists, promise). There was also a most awarded head nod to the original story by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve in the first act. On point casting. Shout out to one-sided love, and transgender men and women.

#beauty and the beast (2017) #film #disney #blog #jttm

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Your Name.

Another BuzzFeed post about the spectacular animated feature. You know the drill.

#your name. #film #animation #makoto shinkai #buzzfeed #blog #jttm

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Legion

Wrote on BuzzFeed about FX/Marvel’s latest show. Check it!

#legion #fx #marvel #buzzfeed #blog #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

Mass Effect

About six years ago my younger sister had been playing Mass Effect 2 and 3 on the PS3 for several weeks, and I had only caught glimpses of the game– masculine looking guy talking to blue people with big boobs, picking buttons for dialogue, lots of talking, and lots of bright lights; nothing of which caught my attention. One day she asked me to customize a female Shepard for ME:2 while she went to do something. Once I finished customizing it she had yet to return, so I decided to go ahead and play until she came back. Five hours later I ignored my dad’s call for dinner and my sister was passed out on the bed (she decided to let me play). That file became my first for Mass Effect, and the birth of my new addiction for the series and video games in general. Watching my sister play the Metal Gear Solid games was what opened my eyes to the existence of in-depth and almost film-like story in video games. The only ones I ever knew were the couch co-op games, slice of life, and the classics (Super Mario Bros. and Legend of Zelda to name some). Video games were more like puzzles with the plot being only secondary through my eyes. I hadn’t realized this wasn’t always the case; there are those who balance the two. When my sister explained to me Hideo Kojima’s (the creator of the Metal Gear series) experience with film in his past, it totally made sense since just watching someone play was pretty much like watching a movie. But when I was given a choice in my decisions, had romance options, butt loads of likeable characters, and killing shit (no stealth involved thank God) in outer space–this series was a divine gift. I can go on and on about the series, but I’ll stick with what’s happening now: Mass Effect: Andromeda. Granted, there are some serious bugs in the game which made me scream: when I died the “Mission Failed” screen would not appear, thus I had to restart the game; I would often talk to a wall instead of my alien boyfriend; dialogues would overlap and I had no idea who I was listening to; dialogue and sound would be out of sync; dialogue would also appear really late when I enter a room. But wait, there’s more! Unlike its predecessors, Andromeda had a slow start. It was like being stuck in the Hinterlands until I reached level 30. The plot was stagnant until Ryder unlocked their father’s memories which presents new information to push the story forward. Now, it’s not like nothing was happening while you’re wondering (or ignoring) the kett presence. If anything, Ryder was learning and developing their relationship with the angara, along with gaining trust as the human’s Pathfinder. Gameplay wise, I miss the power wheel and I’m not a huge fan of working with three powers at a time. But, customizing Ryder’s class to however the player sees fit is pretty sweet. And those Saitama punches to the ground is my most used move. Overall, I really enjoyed the game. A lot of the missions and detective work reminded me of the first two Mass Effect games. The characters were definitely memorable and loved (shout out to Drack!). And the plot twists were unexpected– leaving me wanting to know more and excited for the next one.

#mass effect #me:a #mass effect: andromeda #bioware #blog #video games #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

Samurai Jack

 Samurai Jack wasn’t one of those shows I watched religiously growing up. In fact, it was just a few years ago my sister and I finished it together and realized, “Damn. What an amazing series.” However, as a kid whose father was a huge fan of [adultswim] and Cartoon Network shows, I would watch snippets or episodes here and there. My reaction to it then was more genuine than it is now, and based on how I felt from what I saw, I kind of carry it all the way through to its Revival. Genndy Tartakovsky was inspired by David Lean, a genius film director to some of my favorite films: Lawrence of Arabia, Bridge on the River Kwai, and Doctor Zhivago. Each use landscapes to set a mood and the sounds of nature to stir the silence. Samurai Jack is heavy on the action, but what I remembered the most from it were the silent moments. Jack walking across terrain with his geta. The howling winds brushing through unknown lands. Jack observing situations with a calm silence–sometimes his eyes narrowing when there’s something amiss. The audience gain so much information without any use of dialogue, including the psychological aspect of the series. In the revival, Jack drops his traditional gi and topknot to have it replaced with long, unruly hair and beard, and a samurai armor that looks to be made out of scraps from what he could salvage. Just by the heavy bags under his eyes alone are signs of a worn out man with little to no hope of ever returning home. After seemingly losing his katana, the proper prince from seasons 1-4 dropped what he was taught from his homeland, and became a reflection of his environment (almost reminded me of Mad Max); using anything at his disposal as weapons, including guns and motorcycles. Season five starts with Jack at rock bottom, and there’s only one way to go from there–up. My best friend, Robert, writes in a multimedia site, Surreal Resolution, and goes more into detail about the premiere of season five. His detailed description on the start of the episode goes hand in hand with what I’ve stated above. He goes even deeper with the art style and psychology behind the premiere.

#samurai jack #blog #surreal resolution #jttm #adult swim #tv #animation

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Persona 3 Portable

Persona 3 Portable is one of the few games I've replayed about 3-4 times (others being Mass Effect and Dragon Age). The character interaction is simply astounding and your power grows based on your relationship with others. Shooting yourself in the head to awaken your persona, personas named after Greek gods, discover love, time management, balance of personal/school life and fighting, and interaction with others outside your circle of friends--such as people you meet in town--are some of the few things that make this game so great. I'm not a huge fan for turn-based combat, but the animations and options to physically attack someone or use your persona was enlightening; as if you don't have to rely on your persona (powers) in order to win a battle. The Thirteenth Hour or the Dark Hour is also an interesting concept where normal people don't even realize or remember the events that occur during the extra hour of the day, and it is the time you and your team fight the Shadows--creatures born from negative human emotions. If there was one thing I wished from this game was to have Junpei as a romance option; he grew on me so much as the game progressed... man...

#persona 3 portable #p3p #video games #blog #jttm

[journeythroughthemedias]

Wolf’s Rain

Wolf's Rain is definitely one of those narratives that leaves you in a pit of despair. The colors are muted, the characters are the last of their kind and live to survive amongst the humans, and the world is coming to an end. There are a lot of films I've watched that made me feel isolated and consider how cruel the world or universe can be (The Road, 2001: Space Odyssey, Taxi Driver), and this anime is part of that list, alongside Ergo Proxy. I've seen it once and I don't think I can see it any more times than that; I'd suggest watching it with someone and share your grief rather than just handling it alone. Otherwise, it was written by Keiko Nobumoto (Samurai Champloo, Tokyo Godfathers, Space Dandy), so expect something great, over the top, and imaginative.

#wolf's rain #keiko nobumoto #anime #blog #jttm

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Mad Men

Finished seven seasons of Mad Men in... less than two weeks? Spectacular series. The aesthetic is gorgeous as it transitions the audience from the late 50's to 60's to 70's. Major political events integrate into the plot such as the Civil Rights movement and the death of Martin Luther King Jr. and JFK. It also handles women's change in their place in society and the work place. Most importantly, and the bulk of the series, is the exponential growth of advertising as corporations make their way from radio, magazines, and billboards to television. We all know advertisements make products look good to reel in consumers, and Mad Men delivers the process of how ideas are made; to where they paint an elegant picture of the product so people will buy it. In the center of the series is Donald Draper, a genius creative director who is handsome, rich, a playboy, and unhappy. With a checkered past, guilt and confusion looms over him for the entire series as he desperately searches for something to fill an empty part of himself he has yet to discover.

#mad men #tv #amc #blog #jttm

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Pride and Prejudice

Read the book twice. Seen the TV series with Collin Firth. And seen the film about a dozen times. Pride and Prejudice is probably my favorite romance across all platforms of media. Also, period drama is my favorite film/TV genre.

The TV series is closer to the book than the film, but I feel the film captured the essence better. The scenery, colors, and costumes are breathtaking, and the atmosphere makes me feel like I'm in a Jane Austin novel. Using the landscape to the film's advantage did wonders and created another dimension to the story that makes it appear almost magical. You can't help but adore every character, for the casting was done superbly. It's funny, witty, charming, romantic, and dramatic. Keira Knightly played the sharp-witted Elizabeth on point. Matthew Macfadyen as Mr. Darcy made my heart soar with his dark, quiet demeanor, but with a heart of gold. And the talented Donald Sutherland did nothing but make me laugh as he, Mr. Bennet, dealt with a household of women of diverse character. There really is nothing I do not love about this story.

#pride and prejudice #film #blog #jttm

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Satan and Me

This is an adorable and bizarre web-comic by Orangeplum. Just the first chapter got me hooked when the protagonist summons Satan accidentally with her period, and Satan's deadpan reaction was a classic moment for the god of Hell. What I love are the characters' interaction with one another, especially with the angels and how the author sees them being all bros and sarcastic with each other. There is a TV series on FOX, Lucifer, with a similar concept of “what would Satan’s personality be?” or “how would the god of Hell really live like in our sin ridden world?” And I have to say, I prefer Orangeplum’s cynical and ill humored Satan over FOX’s wishy-washy, tantrum throwing Satan with daddy issues (plus I think Orangeplum’s Satan is better looking). In terms of art, it isn’t perfection, but it’s just what one would expect from a growing artist who is only getting better and better. The use of colors though really draws the eyes in. She even color codes the dialogue by character, and it matches their personality! If you're looking for a fun comic with a hilarious and honest female protagonist, hot Satan, and meaningful plot, then Orangeplum’s got your back. Check it out!

#satan and me #orangeplum #webcomic #blog #jttm