Star Trek

“Space the final frontier - These are the voyages of the Starship Enterprise ….. To boldly go where no man has gone before”. These are the words uttered by Captain James T. Kirk at the beginning of every episode of the three series television run of Star Trek.  And from the television series, the Starship Enterprise, captained by James T. Kirk, exploded onto the cinema screen – for 6 original, 4 Next Generation, plus two reboot films.  And this is just the tip of the iceberg! ORIGINS: In 1966, Gene Roddenberry launched a sci fi series for Paramount studios, never imagining that nearly 50 years later people would be watching a reboot of the original series at the cinema.  Amazingly enough, (especially since there have been books such as I am not Spock, trying to distance the movie) the surviving original actors can still be seen at Fanfest, and Comicon, etc. The pilot actually aired with different actors playing the captain, doc and science officer – however, by the time the series went into production, the familiar faces were in place and familiar names of Spock, Kirk, McCoy, Uhura, Sulu, Chekov and Scottie were to be heard on set . Also, in the somewhat sexist time that the movie was made, Uhura, Ensign Rand and Nurse Chappel wore the tiniest miniskirts to make them glamorous – something that has changed in the new movie franchise.  Our intrepid heroes travel from planet to planet, through space and time (City on the Edge of Forever took Bones, Spock and Kirk back to depression era Earth), in their mission … which some people wished would never end. When finally the series was dropped, it was reborn as a movie franchise.  As the original crew continued their adventures through the cinesphere, the next television series was born:  Star Trek, The Next Generation – followed by, Deep Space 9, Voyager, Enterprise and then more recently the two reboot movies. SPOOFS: There have even been spoofs of the original series produced. My favourite “send up” would be Galaxy Quest with Alan Rickman, Tim Allen and Sigourney Weaver. The plot of this film centres on the retired crew of a TV space series Starship.  When aliens need help, they don’t realize that our TV crew aren’t really the characters they portray – leaving them in a dire situation.  You will have to view the movie to find out the solution because I’m not spoiling this one – but it’s worth a watch. ACTORS: The stars of this franchise are many – from William Shatner and Leonard Nimoy of the original crew, there have been the crews of the later series, including Patrick Stewart, Kate Mulgrew and Scott Bakula’s TV series and of course the recent film crew. Like many other franchises, these people become typecast to their series and are frequently more recognized for their roles than who they are. The actors are known for trying to “break the mold”, however, that is a hard task. (pictures) DVDS, TOYS AND BOOKS: This franchise has spawned comic books, cartoons, board games and computer games, magazines and books.  It has further licenced clothes and homeware for consumption, also DVDs and VHS tapes.  These accessories were readily available and when the new movies went into production, you guessed it – so did the toys, games and so forth – all over again. Along the way it has paid for itself many times over as they continue to reissue the old material which was always popular, plus the new goodies too. FAVOURITE FILM: This is another toughie to choose.  If I was asked about the original show, I would certainly say this was my “go to” series and City on the Edge of Forever certainly was a two box of Kleenex show.  On the other hand, as far as movies are concerned, I would opt for the Wrath of Khan, just to see Montalban (Khan) overact dreadfully – but still entertain. And the part when Chekov has a “creature” in put his ear … well, you can just imagine. However, I have to say that the new series is something that impresses me.  The first film was okay, but the last movie released with Cumberbatch playing the Khan role, well, that could be compared to the old franchise. Over the years people choose different Captains in their voyages, but I still say the old Star Trek can’t be beaten – even though it obviously didn’t have the budget or the special effects – it is a cult classic. CONCLUSION: This series which has been watched for nearly 50 years is certainly a franchise to be reckoned with.  No matter whenever you see William Shatner, or Leonard Nimoy, you can’t help but think of Star Trek, and the “Shakespearian” actor, Patrick Stewart – even when playing Hamlet, or Macbeth still has you thinking “make it so”. Many people have grown up with the franchise – and I for one have been indoctrinated by Star Fleet Command to keep watching this show in whatever form it is shown in.  Do I think that it has outlived it time - and reboots are passé? No, I think it is a series that is enjoyed by many. There is still interest in it (obviously) and enough of a box-office attraction for them to start filming the third movie (due for release in 2016) to the big screen. That’s something that I am really looking forward to. And strangely enough J.J. Abrams, the guy who brought Star Trek back and is directing the new Star Wars series will be producing the new Star Trek film – something that I totally trust him to do well.

Star Wars

In 1977, a little known producer released a movie that the US major companies did not want to touch.  It was considered not to be “the right stuff” for a major motion picture – and so it was made in Britain.  37 years later, this movie that was a guaranteed dud, has grossed more dollars than anyone could have ever have believed – and furthermore, there is a new movie about to be released!  Star Wars has been a cult favourite for a huge amount of time.  From my time and my parent’s time, Star Wars has been around.  The original three movies with their stars were really interesting to me as a child – and I had many of the original Star Wars themed toys… Then came the second wave, the prequel series.  The trilogy, which was written about the origins of the people in the first set of movies arrived with a huge fanfare – and that’s when we all had to buy the merchandise of the second set of three movies.  It took some time to see all three of the “prequel trilogy” and to me they were all involved in my growing up.  I have fond memories of having my face painted to look like the villainous Darth Maul – or opening my toys from under the Christmas tree and lining up the clones and the good guys.  So, now when they are promising a geriatric Han Solo, Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, I wonder what they are going to do.  Should the series have stayed buried in its glory – or will the adult figures inspire me to watch the next two releases – only time will tell.

PERSONAL FAVOURITES: I have to say that the original Star Wars – as hokey and sparse as the special effects were, still are very close to my heart.  This was a different take on Star Wars and lacked the CGI of the newer films, however – to me they were real.  At a certain point in time the special effects become so extreme that they are unbelievable, the old movies – even with the feel that Luke and Darth Vader are in a Space Invaders game at the end – are still great. 

When I think of the new take on the franchise, I would have to say that The Phantom Menace is the strongest of the three.  I believe that in trilogies, in most cases the second movie tends to be the weakest – somewhat of a filler to get to the finale which everyone has been waiting for.  Often the finale is very strong – I found it hard to differentiate between the first series Number 1 and Number 3 – when they all live happy ever after – except for those who don’t.  On the other hand Number 1 of the prequels started well, the second faltered and the third movie had to have a bad outcome or the original films would never have been created.  I was not fond of the over use of CGI technique and that the old puppets had been mothballed for a computer app.  Darth Vader (Anakin) was so over the top as to be funny and his last word of the series – “NOOOO!”

One thing that must be noted in the Star Wars franchise is the use of spirituality – and the strong moral ethic – good versus bad.  The dark side was something that nobody wanted to give in to – which was great for me as a kid – I had to be good or end up looking like Humpty Dumpty with a mask on! I don’t want to be critical, but I think – although I liked the Phantom Menace that there was more of a punch to the old series.  Whether it was just the story or whether it was the fact that these characters seemed to represent some ideals, they had a lot of influence on a lot of little kids.

MERCHANDISE:  This is something that can’t be questioned.  There have been so many books, models and toys that this franchise is a money spinner. In fact whole comic book series, graphic novels and paperback books have been produced just to relate the adventures of the heroes. Furthermore the VHS tapes and DVDs have been cleaned up and repackaged, reprocessed, etc.  The original series had a completely different character as Anakin and so the footage was adapted – so you could buy the new old series.  And now Disney has purchased the Star Wars trademark – so there is even more merchandise and toys, clothes, etc. for sale.

In conclusion Star Wars is likely on of the best franchise in Sci Fi – only rivaled by Star Trek, which in its many forms has probably lasted longer than Star Wars… but they make mean running mates.

This franchise is certainly worth at least one watch – and maybe more if you have the opportunity to see old and new movies – and I am certainly eagerly awaiting the new movie, wondering if the trilogy can top the old ones.  We’ll see.

The Marvel Universe

It’s crazy how successful a franchise can become in such a short period of time. Ever since the early 2000s Marvel has had its foot in the door of the cinema.  Marvel was a comic book producer whose work took on a life of its own and now its various “super heroes” are household names.  It isn’t a case of one or two characters, but many of the characters who are legends on the silver screen.

These super heroes became so famous that film studios argue over copyright on different super hero characters all the time. Sony now owns the rights to Spider Man, but the original trilogy of films in the 2000s were licensed to Tristar. Sony bought the rights to the stories and rebooted the series – but at a tremendous price tag. Specific scenarios belong to certain companies, such as Fox owning X-Men.  Paramount/Universal studios produced The Avengers franchise which is considered one of the highest grossing film franchises of all time given the multitude of characters and reboots around. In 2012, given the success of the series, it was purchased by the Walt Disney Studio group and now is considered a “Disney” product, even though it is still produced in the Marvel facility.

   

What is really cool is that the trilogies that they want to do are all tied in to fit with the Avengers storyline. For instance, they intend on producing another two Avengers films for the trilogy. During this same period (the two years it takes to make another film) expect Captain America to make a third entry and Thor will be releasing its third movie too. In 2015 Ant Man and Age of Ultron will be released. The franchise just keeps on churning out more stories.  Nothing ever gets old because each hero is taking part in its own trilogy in its own storyline.

 

COMIC ORIGINS: In the early sixties Stan Lee and Jack Kirby began creating many, many super hero characters.  These characters would become favourites. Iron Man and Thor eventually had their own comic series which would later be adapted for film. This is the same for so many others.

ON SCREEN: Spider Man is a Marvel hero – and as such there have been numerous films starring him.  Thor, X-Men and Iron Man are also Marvel heroes.  The Hulk, Captain America and the Avengers are even more characters – and Fantastic Four are yet more heroes! Recently Guardians of the Galaxy has been released - and they too, are Marvel heroes.

  

THE WHY: The heroes of the Marvel Comic franchise have one thing in common, they are innocent.  They are on the side of good. They all have alternate personas.  For me, this is appealing.  The idea that an ordinary person could be another person is somewhat unique and I like that theory.  I don’t have access to the original comics, so I am commenting on my knowledge from the movies and graphic novels – but from what I do know, I like.

CASTING: What ensures the success of all the modern Marvel films is that they use big name actors for their roles. Hugh Jackman, Martin Sheen, Cliff Robertson are all well-known actors in the Marvel universe. In 2011, Kenneth Branagh brought Thor to the silver screen, using Anthony Hopkins as Thor’s father Rene Russo as his mother and Natalie Portman as Jane Foster, the romantic interest. Robert Downey Jr. is Iron Man and Samuel L. Jackson is Nick Fury who also adds to a long line of stars that bring the Marvel characters to life. However, Spider Man is the exception to the rule, as whenever Spider Man is cast, the studio likes to showcase new talent - but he is supported by name characters.

ACCESSORIES AND TOYS: This is another huge area.  There are graphic novels and movies, toys and games and they all sport the Marvel logo.  There were comics which were published in the 60s, and these comics were plentiful.  They aren’t readily available now but we have a good amount of other things, including books, etc. which fill the space.  How many?  It’s hard to say, but needless to mention, they make a lot of money for the franchise. There are now Lego Marvel characters and Marvel video games too – a true sign of success.  And I haven’t touched on the various different sized and shaped action figures, poseable, large, talking or just soft toys – you name it and you’ll find it.

Overall, I think the idea of Super Heroes is a great concept and although I never really grew up with Marvel I am highly impressed with the franchise.  And from the movie stand point I actually enjoy them and I feel they’ve done a great job making it family friendly. They have made it interesting for both adults, and youth alike.  From a modern standpoint I believe that the Marvel and Avengers franchise is stepping up their game to beat DC Comics who bring Superman and Batman to the screen.

RECOMMENDATIONS: Personally I have enjoyed all the different Super Hero stories I have seen.  They are very well done and very family friendly, with as mentioned before – a moral to the story. I believe the next generation of children will grow up with a nostalgia related to this scene.  In closing, I would say I have a fond spot for the Fantastic Four and the Rock Man character (and this has nothing to do with the Never ending Story – a franchise I will not be discussing!).

Batman

Where, oh where to begin with this franchise? Batman has been going since the 1940’s and that covers a lot of time. Batman has always been a fan favorite of mine and in fact I grew up watching and reading about the character in its many forms.

COMIC ORIGINS:  Batman was created by Bob Kane in Detective Comics #27 (DC is the brand name).  In Detectives Comics #30 Robin was introduced.  Because Batman was so successful they launched a Batman comic book series where the familiar baddies were gradually introduced. Kane wanted a solo detective type character, but due to pressure added Robin as a “Watson” figure to aid and abet our hero. Soon people knew about Catwoman, Joker, Penguin and Riddler were household names.

BATMAN ON SCREEN: From the comics two movies were produced in the ‘40s (with a much meaner detective Batman) and in the ‘60s a very popular TV show was aired.  For some time after the TV show Batman took a well-earned rest.  During this time the comics continued – that was until 1989 when Tim Burton reprised Batman for the Big Screen with an adaptation of “The Killing Joke”.  From that time onward there have been various Batman characters. There was Tim Burton’s take on Batman, Batman and Batman Returns; then there were other films – Batman Forever and Batman and Robin (which failed miserably and they stopped making movies after this representation.)  People now were expecting a less cartoon like Batman and someone who was mean like Burton’s take one the franchise. 

WHO IS THE BEST BATMAN?: Now for the $60,000,000 question: which Batman is better than the other? For me, it’s always been the 60’s “Silver Age” TV hero.  I believe the franchise was at its best in its family friendly prime at that time. I grew up watching the reruns of Batman, the TV series, and always idolized Adam West and Burt Ward – totally child friendly and always proper and moral.  The bad guys were not too scary and many silver screen heroes made guest appearances just for fun as the baddies.  Vincent Price (horror king), John Astin (Gomez Addams), George Sanders, Burgess Meredith (Rocky), Julie Newmar & Ertha Kitt both played Catwoman, Chad and Jeremy (British pop singers) and the list goes on.

BATMAN ACCESSORIES:  Of course considering that Batman has been so popular in the last 50 years, there have been many books, toys and games produced. There were Batman gifts in cereal boxes and McDonalds “Happy Meal” toys.  When I was small I wore Batman Tee Shirts, underwear and pajamas – that’s pretty well as good as it gets for the franchise gang. And that is not touching on the original comics as well as graphic novels and regular books which have since been produced.

RECOMMENDATIONS: My recommendation for Batman goodies, from someone who grew up with the franchise is “just take the plunge”.  Depending on whether you watch TV or movies there is something for you, and as mentioned – comics and graphic books are available.  Do I have a suggestion where to start with this brand?  I’d suggest you think about whether you like a light or dark hero – as I said before, the oldest version of Batman was simply a gumshoe.  Christopher Nolan continued the tradition of Batman when he brought back the Dark Knight.  His version is probably the most successful that Batman has been film-wise.  However, this is not like the TV series; Batman is far more deep and realistically violent.  Burton’s take used a “comic” interpretation but the realism and darkness of Nolan is stark.  The ’97 version of Batman with Uma Thurman and Arnold Schwarzenegger was a bomb, however I quite enjoyed it – but it really is a case that you, yourself, should take the plunge and jump into the deep dark franchise – check out some of the TV shows or old movies on line and then you can make up your own opinions… I’m sure you’ll figure it out … it’s just a personal preference and what suits one may not suit another.  Whichever way, Batman is still around and likely to be so in the future – so hold on to your hats, kids will be watching again … and then they’ll be producing their own franchises on our old friend too.

Batman Films:

Batman (1943)

Batman and Robin (1949)

Batman (1966)

Batman (1989)

Batman Returns (1992)

Batman Forever (1995)

Batman & Robin (1997)

Batman Begins (2005)

The Dark Knight (2008)

The Dark Knight Rises (2012)

The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit (Middle Earth) saga

This the perfect time for me to do a post about Peter Jackson and his Middle Earth series, considering that the last part of the Hobbit trilogy will be coming out next week.

You guessed what I’m going to say next - Peter Jackson's infamous Lord of the Rings legacy has been one of largest grossing film series in the last decade - starting off when he began his odyssey in 2001.

BOOK COMPARISION: You could say this is not the most original film series in the entire world. Magic and fantasy have been about for many years, but Tolkien was the “grand-daddy” of fantasy. And before films, there were books. These books were written by the late acclaimed author J.R.R Tolkien. Not unlike his films, his books were highly successful and inspired C.S. Lewis to write his Narnia Chronicles. Later there were other authors who followed this line – Alan Garner and Terry Brooks loosely based their creations from Tolkien’s work. Although Tolkien originally wrote his Rings Saga in one massive book, this was later divided into three quite reasonably sized books which inspired Jackson to create three Rings movies.  This is understandable; however, when you look at the size of the Hobbit book, it amazes me how Jackson has managed to stretch the franchise into three major motion pictures considering The Hobbit is probably smaller than any one of the original Rings books. After seeing what he has created so far, you can definitely see how Jackson has embellished the films to make them stretch to the time he requires to produce three movies.

QUALITY OF FILMS: Although they were published many years ago, nobody has forgotten about Tolkien and his stories. The books remain as popular as they ever were and therefore when the films came out, it was no surprise that they were so successful. However, it’s important to note that it might have been possible these pictures could have failed miserably if Jackson hadn't had a good idea of what the series required. There is a certain magic to these films – and it’s partially his good eye for casting – and the location that he chose.  Each and every one of the movies has a very distinct style, and he is consistent in his locations - always filming in New Zealand to depict Middle Earth (are most New Zealander’s Hobbits – or is it just the magical landscapes?). Again it is notable that the casting was about as good as you’re going to get. Sir Ian McKellen, who was famous for many things beforehand, was the best choice for Gandalf, (who I also believe would have easily fitted into the role of Dumbledore in Harry Potter if he wasn’t involved in Middle Earth) and to many he is Gandalf. Also, Martin Freeman, Hugo Weaving and Orlando Bloom have done very well from the publicity around these movies.

FRANCHISE: As mentioned before, it must be noted that it not just the films that promote the story, it’s also the franchising around a movie. Lots of  publicity and easily obtained merchandise really make money.  Children and adults watch the movies and then buy the accompanying toys, games and other sundry items, bringing in quite a profit.

LEGACY: In conclusion, I think everyone’s excited the see what will happen in the future, the Silmarillion perhaps? Is it possible that the franchise has been out for too long, and that turning the Hobbit into three separate parts has been harmful? The purist might say yes it could be – but as long as the public is willing to pay to see the movies the movie makers would say “hardly”. As long as there is a market to tap and people pay money at the box office, it doesn’t really matter what you’ve done to the original story.   The lovely thing about franchises is how far you can go to try and squeeze every single cent out of them. Not only are the toys, games and TV dinners important but as mentioned about Harry Potter, if people go back and buy the books, it can’t hurt.  Would I say this series of films is better than other franchises? No, I wouldn't. I would even question the plot being somewhat unlike its original book.  But does the film going public really care about the changes which make it fit the silver screen?  As long as it’s entertaining who cares?  And that’s what I'm talking about.

Sherlock Holmes

“Elementary My Dear Watson” Is the most misquoted quote of this fictional hero. Who is he and what does he do?  Nearly anybody can tell you that – Mr. Sherlock Holmes of 221b Baker Street and his trusty associate Doctor John Watson, late of her majesties armed forces are once of crime fictions notable characters.  Ever since movies have been around, there has always been someone depicting the hero. 

BACKGROUND: When Conan Doyle started writing about Holmes, it was just to get some money to write more “sensible” works.  Strangely enough, Doyle’s hero became greater than the whole and even when he was “written off” at the Reichenbach Falls in the Final Problem – Doyle was coerced into resurrecting his hero.  Public opinion ruled. 

PORTRAYALS: Soon enough Holmes was being portrayed on the stage.  William Gillette was a noted actor who played the hero many times.

MOVIE REPRESENTATION: As time passed, there was the advent of movies… and as soon as they could, Holmes was on celluloid… firstly in 1900 as a silent movie, then in black and white – and finally in glorious Technicolor. According to the Guinness Book of Records Holmes is the character that has been most portrayed in movies, apparently there have been more than 70 actors playing the role in over 200 films. And that does not take into account the television representation.

FAMOUS ACTORS: Over the years there have been many Holmes actors – Basil Rathbone starred in 14 movies about the sleuth, Arthur Wotner and Raymond Massey were early Holmes stars – more recently there have been people like Christopher Plummer and Robert Downey and next year (2015) is the release of Sir Ian McKellan’s portrayal of the 93 year old Holmes, who comes out of retirement to solve one last problem. 

TELEVISION: Apart from movies, there have been numerous TV portrayals – Ronald Howard, Douglas Wilmer, Peter Cushing, John Neville, Jeremy Brett and most recently Benedict Cumberbatch have played the detective.

BOOKS AND MERCHANDISE: Apart from talking books and movies, there are of course the original Conan Doyle books… which provide quite a bit of merchandise.  Also there was a book series called the Young Sherlock Holmes and of course the cartoon series Sherlock Holmes in the 22^nd Century. Also, once more, Lego enters the franchise scene with a “Detective” who is certainly Sherlock. There is also a 15” Sherlock Holmes Teddy, action figure Sherlock and a toy soldier Sherlock model – Sherlock is not forgotten by franchisers.

FAVOURITES: My favourite Sherlock Holmes, hmm this again is a bit of a challenge.  The first television series starring Jeremy Brett and David Burke was so very well produced and acted that one can’t help but nominate that as a great portrayal and authentic to the story too.  Unfortunately that can’t be said about all of the series (which did go on for a while) as later the director changed and saw fit to rewrite the story lines. The second series started with a new Watson who did not have the same chemistry as Burke and sadly lessened the chemistry.  On another note, there are TV series starring Ronald Howard and Geoffrey Whitehead – both with excellent Holmes/Watson chemistry – but not really following the plot lines.  More recently Cumberbatch has starred in an updated Sherlock which uses titles from the original series but very loosely represents the stories – in actuality they use titles but not the stories.  This is really what I’d call a niche audience as the followers really are watching a show and not comparing the circumstances (21^st century against 19^th century) and the modified story lines accommodate an “up to date” type of viewer. In the 40’s Rathbone was a great Holmes – but he wasn’t so nice to Watson and again his storylines were adapted to a country at war.  I actually quite liked Without A Clue – Michael Caine and Ben Kingsley – I thought it was fun – but I have to say that it wasn’t a representation of the traditional Holmes and it again didn’t follow the story line.  But I enjoyed it.  So all I can say is, look out some of the old stories and some of the new – Robert Downey Jr. was Holmes and Jude Law played Watson not so far back and that might be a place to start. And don’t forget to look up “The Great Mouse Detective!”  When you realize how many portrayals there have been, close your eyes and choose just one or two and I would just say to you good luck!

IN CONCLUSION: Whether you watch movies, TV or read books there is something there for you when you open up the Sherlock Holmes portfolio.  I’ve read the stories time and again and really enjoyed them, but there are so many representations, and there are even talking books telling the stories – that I believe Sherlock fits everyone’s tastes.  Even little ones can watch the Mouse Detective, or if you can get hold of it, Sherlock in the 22^nd Century.  Conan Doyle was a genius that didn’t know what he was getting in to – but is remembered for one of the most memorable detectives of all time.