Category Archives: Movie Adaptations

The Amazing Spider-Man Planned as Trilogy

In a recent interview with the producers of The Amazing Spider-Man, Avi Arad and Matt Tolmach hinted that the superhero film was set to be a trilogy. The sequel is already in the works, currently being written, but the producers stated that they had planned for the franchise to be at least a trilogy.

Tolmach stated,

“We knew that it was going to be more than one, and at the very least three. We’re going to let this movie tell us what the story is.”

Now it has officially been confirmed via the official Facebook page that the franchise will definitely be a trilogy. A post on this past Monday said,

“It’s finally here! The Amazing Spider-Man is the first installment in a movie TRILOGY that will explore how our fave hero’s journey was shaped by the disappearance of his parents.”

They even made it a point to capitalize “trilogy” just in case you missed it.

Sony has confirmed that the sequel is scheduled to open May 2, 2014. There is no word on whether or not Marc Webb will take the trilogy or like so many other directors before him, will leave before the sequel.

In case you haven’t seen the film yet, the official plot summary:

One of the world’s most popular characters is back on the big screen as a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy is revealed in “The Amazing Spider-Man.” Focusing on an untold story that tells a different side of the Peter Parker story, the new film stars Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan, with Martin Sheen and Sally Field. The film is directed by Marc Webb from a screenplay written by James Vanderbilt, based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Matt Tolmach are producing the film in association with Marvel Entertainment for Columbia Pictures, which will open in theaters everywhere in 3D on July 3, 2012.

“The Amazing Spider-Man” is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field). Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today. Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Stone), and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets. As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents’ disappearance – leading him directly to Oscorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father’s former partner. As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors’ alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

Justin Long May Be Headed To The Ten O’Clock People

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It has been reported that actor Justin Long is in negotiations for the lead role in the big-screen adaptation of Stephen King’s short story “The Ten O’Clock People.” Long is best known for his roles in the films Galaxy Quest, Jeepers Creepers, Dodgeball, Live Free or Die Hard, He’s Just Not That into You, and Drag Me to Hell, and his personification of a Mac in Apple’s “Get a Mac” advertising campaign. He also appeared in the hit tv series “New Girl.”

Long would play Brandon Pearson in the modernized adaptation. Pearson is a smoker who is trying desperately to quit for health reasons. He soon discovers, however, that there is a horrible aspect of reality that only those attempting to quit (like himself) can see. Many of the people living among us, even those in positions of power (like the VP of the United States) are actually inhuman monsters disguised as people.

The story, published in 1993, comes from King’s Nightmares and Dreamscapes collection. Unlike several of King’s stories which take place in fictional places and settings, “Ten O’Clock People” takes place in the distinctly recognizable Boston, Massachusetts.

Filming will begin Sept. 10 in New York.

Tom Holland (Fright Night, Child’s Play) will direct to feature. Currently there is no word on when the film is expected to hit theaters.

For more information, check out Optionated’s previous coverage of this project here.

The Amazing Spider-Man Does Well Internationally

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Sony’s highly anticipated franchise reboot The Amazing Spider-Man opened internationally last week in 13 Asian markets over the weaken. The film fared well in the market, grossing $50.2 million in three days. The film earned $13.4 million on 1,213 screens in Korea, making it the third-highest opening for a Hollywood movie behind the last two Transformers movies.

The Amazing Spider-Man opened 24% higher than Spider-Man 3 and 10% higher than The Avengers, SuperHeroHype reported.

In Japan, the film earned $11.4 million on 1,092 screens, which was 84% of the country’s weekend box office. The movie made $6 million in India, and had successful openings in the other Asian countries, according to SHH.

The Amazing Spider-Man opens in North America on today in theaters across the country.

Check out the trailer below.

Spidey isn’t the only big money maker for Sony this weekend. Men in Black 3 has reached $599.4 million worldwide, which made it the highest-grossing film in its sci-fi comedy franchise.

Hunger Games Star Jennifer Lawrence Talks New Director

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Catching Fire, the sequel to the phenomenal movie The Hunger Games switched directors at the last minute, with Gary Ross leaving the sequel and Francis Lawrence picking it up. Many fans are worried what this change in vision can do to the much anticipated sequel. To quell fears, actress and star of the first movie, Jennifer Lawrence, has said quite a few nice things about the director and what he has in store.

Jennifer had this to say:

I really like his take, which is a lot of what I liked in [The Hunger Gamesdirector] Gary Ross. It’s the realistic grasp of the story instead of all the details of the imaginary things… The new movie will be very real, which is what I’m excited about.”

Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson, and Liam Hemsworth will reprise their lead roles as Katniss, Peeta and Gale, with Lenny Kravitz, Elizabeth Banks, Stanley Tucci, Donald Sutherland, Toby Jones, and Woody Harrelson also returning to their respective roles.

The coveted roles of Finnick Odair and Johanna Mason have not yet been cast despite several rumors of who is in the running.

The film is set to be released in theaters November 22, 2013.

Comic-Con Full Schedule of Adaptations Panels – July 15th

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The San Diego Comic-Con has posted the schedule for Sunday, July 15. You can view the full schedule of panels regarding adaptations below:

SUNDAY, JULY 15

10:00-11:00 Comic-Con How-to: Publishing Industry: From Manuscript to Industry:

So you have the desire to write a book and get it published, but what does that really mean? Agents, editors, publishers, reviewers, self-publishing, traditional publishing, print on demand, ebooks, foreign language-the list goes on. What does it mean to “write for profit,” and what are the pitfalls to watch out for? Award-winning author Maxwell Alexander Drake gives you some insights into the real world that is the Publishing Industry. Warning: this seminar is not for the weak of spirit. Room 2

10:00-11:00 The Annual Jack Kirby Tribute Panel:

There might not be comic book industry were it not for Jack Kirby…and if you don’t know who that is, you really don’t belong at this convention. Each year, his friends and co-workers gather to talk about Jack and his work and to marvel (no pun intended) at the length and breadth of his influence, not just on comics but on TV, movies, and all the arts. This year, the dais will include Herb Trimpe (Incredible Hulk), Stan Goldberg (Marvel colorist), Paul Dini (Batman), and Charles Hatfield (Hand of Fire), all chatting with moderator Mark Evanier (Kirby: King of Comics). Room 5AB

10:00-11:00 DC Comics: Young Justice:

They may be young-but they’re still heroes! Find out what’s happening for The Legion of Super-Heroes, Teen Titans, Blue Beetle, and more as more DC Comics-The New 52 unfolds in this panel featuring Tony Bedard (Blue Beetle), Paul Levitz (Legion of Super-Heroes), and Scott Lobdell (Teen Titans, Red Hood and the Outlaws). Room 6DE

10:00-11:00 Stunted Fools, Scary-Ass Clowns, Enlightened Orangutans, and Other Devilish Charmers: Humor in Science Fiction and Fantasy:

“The pen is mightier than the sword if the sword is very short, and the pen is very sharp.” And these authors’ pens are…very sharp. But, as The Hitchhiker’s Guide so sagely advises, DON’T PANIC. Humor is everywhere you look in science fiction and fantasy. So wrap your towel around your head to ward off noxious fumes, and join in for an irreverent hour celebrating sly wit and unholy humor with some of the most devilish quipsters, wisecrackers, and satirists writing today. Warning: you will snicker. And you may just laugh out loud. John Scalzi (Redshirts) plays ringmaster to panelists Richard Kadrey (Devil Said Bang), Doyce Testerman (Hidden Things), Rob Reid (Year Zero), Ned Vizzini (The Other Normals), Gini Koch (Alien Diplomacy), Nathan Long (Jane Carver of Waar), and Nick Hurwitch (co-author of So You Created a Wormhole). Room 25ABC

10:30-11:30 Global Sensation Merlin Celebrates Season 5:

International hit series Merlin returns to Comic-Con to celebrate its upcoming fifth season premiere with a presentation of advance footage, a peek behind-the-scenes, and access to its stars and creators. Leading the panel are Colin Morgan, the magical title character of Merlin, and Katie McGrath, the wickedly beautiful sorceress Morgana. The pair will be joined by co-creators and executive producers Johnny Capps and Julian Murphy, as well as some fan favorite, gotta-be-there-to-see guests. Popular hostess and “writer of all things geek” Jenna Busch moderates the festivities, which will include an eye-opening offering of Merlin’s expansive new entertainment scope, some unique prizes, and a few special-for-Comic-Con surprises from the series that airs in more than 180 countries. Room 6BCF

10:30-12:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #13: Super-Bodies: Overcoming Disability Through Superheroism:

Scott Daniel Boras (Arizona State University) examines the abject bodies of popular depictions of mutants, monsters, and aliens as they emerge in relation to key historical events, and also dominant social tensions that play out on the body. Ultimately, these bodies are depicted as being both utopian and dystopian at the same time, highlighting how even our greatest heroes are also often monsters. Rachelanne Smith (California State University, Sacramento) makes the case that the superhero is directly linked to the classic literary tradition of the flawed hero. The defects in the hero are the means through which we can better relate to and accept him. Using Professor X as a case study, Smith explores the relation between the strength of the hero and his or her corresponding flaw or disability. José Alaniz (University of Washington, Seattle) examines how Marvel’s The Human Fly — “the wildest superhero ever-because he’s real!” — flouts the genre’s usual conventions, possessing no superpowers but overcoming a devastating injury through sheer willpower, and simultaneously challenges and reaffirms accustomed notions of both superheroism and disability. Room 26AB

11:00-12:00 The Chilling Archives of Horror Comics Zombies Panel!:

Blood will curdle and flesh will crawl as IDW/Yoe Books terror team co-editors Craig Yoe (Eisner Award-winning comic historian) and Steve “Karswell” Banes (host of The Horrors of It All vintage comics blog) unearth the lurid, dark history of 1950s comics with an unnerving panel focused on pre-Code horror’s most despicably dead subject-zombies! This hour-long discussion and Q&A is guaranteed to rot your mind! All attendees dressed as a zombie will get a prize! Room 32AB

11:15-12:15 Marvel: Women of Marvel:

From Ms. Marvel to the X-Men, from tumblr to Twitter, women in comics has been one of the most talked-about topics in comics for the last year. Join the conversation as women from every discipline in the creative process at Marvel discuss what it’s like working as a woman in comics today and what it means for the future of the industry. These ladies are smashing through the four-color ceiling! Panelists include editors Jeanine Schaefer and Sana Amanat. Room 5AB

11:15-12:15 DC Entertainment: Meet the Publishers:

As co-publishers of DC Entertainment, Jim Lee and Dan DiDio are the driving forces behind DC Comics-The New 52, DC’s digital initiative, Before Watchmen, and much more. This up-close-and-personal panel gives you a chance to step up and ask questions about your favorite comic book publisher’s publishers! Say that five times fast! Room 6DE

12:00-1:00 Comic-Con How-To: The Art of Writing with Gregg Hurwitz:

Actor, author, and award-winning audiobook narrator Scott Brick talks to author Gregg Hurwitz about his work. Hurwitz’s books include The Crime Writer, Trust No One, and You’re Next. He’s also written for comics, including Marvel’s The Punisher MAX and Wolverine and DC’s Batman: The Dark Knight. Room 2

12:30-1:30 Marvel: Amazing Spider-Man:

There’s no turning back for Spider-Man! The Lizard is back, and only Spider-Man has a chance of curing him! Find out all the details on what’s going on with your favorite wall-crawler on the eve of his 50th Anniversary in August. That’s right, Marvel’s editor-in-chief Axel Alonso and others will be taking any and all questions from you, the fans! With earth-shattering announcements that will change the life of Peter Parker for another 50 years, this is one panel that no Spidey fan can miss! Room 6DE

2:00-3:00 Max Brooks: Zombie Survival 101:

Max Brooks, screenwriter and author of bestselling books The Zombie Survival Guide, World War Z, and The Zombie Survival Guide: Recorded Attacks, is the world’s leading authority on the defense against a ghoulish uprising! Renowned for his campus and convention lectures nationwide, Brooks comes to San Diego Comic-Con to share his insight into the rotting minds of the undead, reveal how the Zombie Survival Guide came into existence, and field questions from zombie-phobic fans! You dare not miss this lecture — your very life may depend on it! Room 7AB

2:00-3:00 Cover Story:

Comic-Con’s annual discussion about the art of the comic book cover. Mark Evanier interviews special guests Charlie Adlard (The Walking Dead), Tim Bradstreet (The Punisher), Becky Cloonan (Conan), and Mark Schultz (Xenozoic Tales) about their cover work, including design, execution, and what worked-and didn’t-on some of their very own covers. Room 25ABC

4:00-5:00 15 Years Since Philosopher’s Stone: Harry Potter Fandom in 2012:

Seven books from J. K. Rowling — or ten, depending on how you count — plus hundreds of thousands of fanfics. Eight studio movies — plus dozens of popular fanfilms, musicals, and songs. One theme park — but soon there’ll be three or more! An international museum exhibition — and piles of fan-made shirts, crafts, fanart, CDs and DVDs. An encyclopedic website — and fancons, fan-made wikis, and history courses on the impact of the Harry Potter fandom. We’ll look back at 15 years of Harry Potter fandom and try to predict — better than Trelawney! — where we go from here. Room 6DE

Comic-Con 2012 Adaptations Panels – Full Schedule July 14th

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The San Diego Comic-Con has posted the schedule for Saturday, July 14. You can view the full schedule of panels featuring material that is regarding adaptations or in someway related to past, present, and upcoming adaptions below:

SATURDAY, JULY 14

10:00-11:00 After Earth:

Enter the world of After Earth with an in-depth panel that gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the universe of the upcoming film and comic book. With the film now in post-production and set to hit theaters next June, screenwriter Gary Whitta (Book of Eli) and director of photography Peter Suschitzky (The Empire Strikes Back) will discuss the making of the film. They will be joined by comic book artist Beni Lobel (Spanish horror comic anthology Cthulu; G.I. Joe comic books; Torchwood: Web of Lies motion comic), and writers Robert Greenberger (Iron Man, Batman, and Hellboy novels) and Michael Friedman (Star Trek and X-Men novels) — the creators of the comic book After Earth: Innocence, which will introduce Kitai and Cypher Raige (played by Jaden and Will Smith in the After Earth film). Also joining the panel is Eisner Award winner Peter David (Star Trek novels and comic books; The Incredible Hulk), who is writing the After Earth prequel novel and also created the After Earth bible with Greenberger and Friedman.

In After Earth, one thousand years after cataclysmic events forced humanity’s escape from Earth, Nova Prime has become mankind’s new home. Legendary General Cypher Raige (played by Will Smith) returns from an extended tour of duty to his estranged family, ready to be a father to his 13-year-old son, Kitai (played by Jaden Smith). When an asteroid storm damages Cypher and Kitai’s craft, they crash-land on a now unfamiliar and dangerous Earth. As his father lies dying in the cockpit, Kitai must trek across the hostile terrain to recover their rescue beacon. His whole life, Kitai has wanted nothing more than to be a soldier like his father. Today, he gets his chance.
Room 6A

10:00-11:00 Planet of the Apes in Comics: Past, Present, and Future:

Planet of the Apes has come back to comics in a big way thanks to BOOM! Studios! Tom Mason (former editor of Malibu’s Planet of the Apes) and current Planet of the Apes editor Dafna Pleban talk with writers Daryl Gregory, Gabriel Hardman, and Corinna Bechko about their critically acclaimed series. Learn what’s next for Planet of the Apes, as well as secrets behind the past of this comic franchise. Room 9

10:00-11:00 Film and TV Production Designers of the Art Directors Guild:

In collaboration with a highly skilled art department, the production designer lays out the design plan that will guide a small army of illustrators, set designers, decorators, carpenters, sculptors, painters, and artisans of every sort in creating small worlds to warm the heart and entire civilizations to fire the imagination. Designers include Suzuki Ingerslev (True Blood), Bill Creber (original Planet of the Apes), Rick Heinrichs (Dark Shadows), Thomas Walsh (Vampires), Dominic Watkins (Snow White and the Huntsman), and moderator John Muto (Terminator 2:3D). Room 25ABC

10:30-11:30 Marvel Television Presents:

Marvel’s head of TV, Jeph Loeb, brings the scoop on season 2 of the hit animated series Ultimate Spider-Man, along with a never-before-seen episode…and a glimpse of the other heroes joining Marvel Universe on Disney XD! Plus, get the update on other hot Marvel Animation Studios projects, including Marvel Knights Animation, Marvel anime-and more surprises from Marvel Television. Room 6BCF

10:30-11:30 Creating Animated TV Series:

What does it take to create an animated series? Do you have to be a writer? An artist or animator? Both? Neither? What do you need to have to pitch an idea, and what are the studios and networks looking for? Members of the Writers Guild of America’s Animation Writers Caucus who have created and developed series, along with network/studio executives who buy them, talk about pitching and answer your questions. Featuring panelists Alan Burnett (The Batman, Green Lantern: First Flight), David Corbett (executive director, North America, RGH Entertainment), Henry Gilroy (Clone Wars, GI Joe: Renegades), Craig Miller (Pocket Dragon Adventures, Beast Wars), Andrew Robinson (Kaijudo: Rise Of The Duel Masters, Young Justice), and others. Room 8

11:00-12:00 Funky Winkerbean’s 40th Anniversary:

Comic-Con special guest Tom Batiuk takes you on a humorous and an informative journey through the Funkyverse as he delves into the origin and history of his syndicated comic strip Funky Winkerbean. Joining him is Alex Sinclair, colorist on DC Comics-The New 52’s Justice League, Green Lantern, Earth 2, and Before Watchmen: Comedian and the talented guy who was the primary colorist on Batiuk’s Pulitzer-nominated book Lisa’s Story. Join Tom and Alex for 40 years of Funky. Room 4

11:00-12:00 Archie Comics: The Hottest Publisher in Comics:

The era of Archie continues! After another year of dominating the headlines with groundbreaking storylines, innovative storytelling, and the best comics on the market, the Archie gang converges on San Diego to reveal what’s next! The panel includes Archie Comics co-CEO Jon Goldwater, co-CEO Nancy Silberkleit, president Mike Pellerito, editor-in-chief Victor Gorelick, cartoonist Dan Parent (Kevin Keller), writer Michael Uslan (Life With Archie), iVerse Media CEO Michael Murphey, MoonScoop Entertainment’s Mike Young, producers Don Murphy and Susan Montford (Real Steel), writer Alex Segura (Archie Meets KISS), writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa (Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark), and a handful of major, newsworthy surprises! Want to learn everything that’s in store for America’s favorite redheaded teen and all his friends? This is the place to be! Panel attendees will get a copy of the latest issue of the hit Life With Archie series! Room 9

11:00-11:45 Once Upon a Time:

Magic is coming! Moderator William Keck (TV Guide Magazine senior editor and columnist) takes you to Storybrooke, where a curse placed on its fairytale inhabitants by the Evil Queen has been broken and reality and myth have merged. It’s a place where magic is about to be introduced, but with it comes its own set of consequences. Co-creators and executive producers Edward Kitsis (Lost, Tron: Legacy) and Adam Horowitz (Lost, Tron: Legacy), along with Ginnifer Goodwin (Big Love), Jennifer Morrison (House), Lana Parrilla (24), Josh Dallas (Thor), Emilie de Ravin (Lost), and Meghan Ory (Vampire High) engage in a Q&A about their hit TV series. Ballroom 20

11:00-12:00 comiXology Open Discussion: Everything Digital:

With over 75 million comics and graphic novels downloaded since its debut, comiXology has revolutionized how people read and buy comic books. Recently hailed by the New York Times as the iTunes of comics, here is your opportunity to discover what is next! Join comiXology cofounders David Steinberger and John D. Roberts for an open discussion on…everything digital. All topics are game! Room 23ABC

11:15-12:30 DC Comics-All Access: OGNs:

It’s been a big year for DC Comics’ award-winning, original graphic novels, and it’s only going to get bigger! Get unfiltered access to behind the scenes of your favorite and most talked about original graphic novels Publisher! Joining the all access party will be some of the industry’s top talents, including Anthony Bourdain (Get Jiro!), Shane Davis (Superman: Earth One), Langdon Foss (Get Jiro!), Geoff Johns (Batman: Earth One), and J. Michael Straczynski (Superman: Earth One), so don’t miss out! Room 6DE

11:30-12:30 Save the Date: Your New Favorite Film:

This may be the first comic book film that isn’t based on an actual comic book; instead, Save the Date uses the style and sensibility of indie comics by renowned graphic novelist Jeffrey Brown as a jumping off point to tell a contemporary story of the trials, pain, and happiness of modern love. Explore the challenges and advantages of working in film versus comics with cartoonist/screenplay co-writer Jeffrey Brown (Clumsy, Darth Vader and Son), director Michael Mohan (One Too Many Mornings), and producers Jordan Horowitz (The Kids Are All Right) and Michael Roiff (Waitress), and discover how the cast has been influenced and inspired by comics and geek culture, with Lizzy Caplan (Party Down), Alison Brie (Community, Mad Men), Martin Starr (Freaks & Geeks, Party Down), Geoffrey Arend (500 Days of Summer), and Mark Webber (Scott Pilgrim). Join them for a lively session moderated by Noel Murray (The A.V. Club). Room 5AB

12:00-1:00 Spotlight on Klaus Janson:

Penciler, inker, and writer — and Comic-Con special guest — Klaus Janson (Daredevil, Dark Knight Returns, The Avengers) makes a rare convention appearance to discuss past, present, and future projects. Join Klaus and his friends Bill Sienkiewicz (Elektra: Assassin, Stray Toasters) and David Mack (Daredevil, Kabuki) as they offer a preview of their upcoming maxi-series Daredevil: The End of Days. Room 9

12:00-1:00 CBLDF Master Session: Charlie Adlard:

With his work on The Walking Dead, Charlie Adlard has proved to be a master of abstract anatomy, suspenseful storytelling, and the imaginative depiction of a familiar but terrifying world. Get a glimpse of his approach to creating the definitive zombie narrative of the 21st century at this CBLDF Master Session. The pieces created will be auctioned off at CBLDF’s Art Auction tonight. Room 11AB

12:00-1:00 The Naked Truth About Tarzan and Jane: The First 100 Years of Spectacular Tarzan Imagery, and One of Literature’s Best-Loved Couples as They Enter Their Second Century:

Bestselling novelist Robin Maxwell (Jane: The Woman Who Loved Tarzan) and author Scott Tracy Griffin (Tarzan: The Centennial Celebration) gather with illustrator Joe Jusko (The Art of Joe Jusko) to discuss these iconic literary characters. Join them for a presentation and Q&A session hosted by Jim Sullos, president of Edgar Rice Burroughs, Incorporated, the official licensing entity for Tarzan and John Carter of Mars. Room 25ABC

12:00-1:00 Comics Arts Conference Session #10: Focus on Steve Englehart:

Steve Englehart (CAC and Comic-Con Special Guest) has been the lead writer for both Marvel and DC on several occasions and a founding father of Malibu’s Ultraverse. His redefinition of Batman and the Joker as mature adults influenced how the characters were depicted in both comics and film for the last three decades. Travis Langley (Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight) moderates a discussion of Englehart’s stellar career writing the adventures of Captain America, Silver Surfer, Doctor Strange, Coyote, Night Man, the Justice League, and dozens of other characters. Room 26AB

12:00-1:00 Nerdist Channel:

Chris Hardwick (the host of BBC America’s The Nerdist and AMC’s Talking Dead) and some very-relevant-to-your-interests talent from the Nerdist Channel on YouTube will engage in lively conversation about the current channel lineup and upcoming shows and specials, and also reveal some exclusive footage and surprise announcements about the future of Nerdist Industries. Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

12:45-1:45 DC Comics: Before Watchmen:

It’s not the end of the world. It’s the beginning! You don’t want to miss this panel about the most talked about comic book series of 2012! DC Entertainment co-publisher Dan DiDio, VP/art direction and design Mark Chiarello, senior editor Will Dennis, and creators Amanda Conner (Before Watchmen: Silk Spectre), Darwyn Cooke (Before Watchmen: Minute Men), Adam Hughes (Before Watchmen: Dr Manhattan), J. Michael Straczynski (Before Watchmen: Nite Owl), Len Wein (Before Watchmen: Ozymandias, Curse of the Crimson Corsair), and others talk about this game-changing event! Hurm! Room 6DE

1:30-2:30 Minimates Turn 10: Small Toys, Big Plans:

Some of the team behind the popular Minimates line are here to unveil new products and answer your questions about the 2-inch, fully articulated mini-figures. From Marvel Comics to Battle Beasts to The Walking Dead, Diamond Select Toys director Chuck Terceira, Art Asylum founder Digger Mesch, and marketing supervisor Zach Oat will share insider info about all their upcoming lines, as well as submit to a Q&A session and debut the next stop-motion animated Pirate Raiders episode. Plus, there’ll be a Minimates prize drawing at the end of the panel. Room 8

1:45-2:45 Marvel Video Games:

Learn all about Gazillion’s Marvel Heroes MMO, Ubisoft’s Avengers: Battle for Earth and more future Marvel games-including an announcement from Activision and High Moon Studios that is sure to be a hit! Q&A will follow. Room 6A

2:00-3:00 Spotlight on Gary Gianni:

Comic-Con special guest Gary Gianni discusses his work illustrating one of Ray Bradbury’s last published books, painting the Game of Thrones 2014 calendar, and the future of illustrated storytelling in the digital realm. Room 4

2:00-3:00 Will Eisner and the Graphic Novel:

Moderator Paul Levitz (writer, 75 Years of DC Comics, Legion of Super-Heroes, former Eisner publisher), Klaus Janson (artist/inker, Daredevil, The Dark Knight Return, comics educator, SVA), Denis Kitchen (artist, author, publisher; Eisner’s agent and longtime friend), Charles Kochman (editorial director, Abrams ComicArts), and Diana Schutz (comics educator; executive editor, Dark Horse Comics; Eisner’s editor) explore the pivotal role Will Eisner’s evangelism of the comics artform plays in the evolution of the American graphic novel, followed by a short Q&A period. Room 23ABC

2:30-5:00 Warner Bros. Pictures and Legendary Pictures Preview Their Upcoming Lineups:

Warner Bros. Pictures: Man Of Steel

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey-From Academy Award-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, a production of New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM). Jackson returns to Middle-earth in an adventure that begins 60 years before the events depicted in The Lord of the Rings Trilogy. The first of two films adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien’s enduringly popular masterpiece, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey follows titular Hobbit, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman), who-along with the wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and a band of 13 Dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield (Richard Armitage)-is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. The film’s ensemble cast includes Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, Elijah Wood, Orlando Bloom, Evangeline Lily, and Andy Serkis as Gollum.
Hall H

2:45-3:45 Marvel: Avengers vs. X-Men:

The battle between the Avengers and the X-Men rages on in this cosmos-shattering event! All your favorite superheroes enter-and only one team will emerge victorious. You’ve got questions, and these people have the answers! Editor-in-chief Axel Alonso, chief creative officer Joe Quesada, X-Men editor Nick Lowe, SVP of creator and content development C.B. Cebulski, and others are on hand to lay out what’s going on with the epic battle surrounding the X-Men’s Phoenix Five and the Avengers. Room 6BCF

4:30-5:15 True Blood Panel and Q&A session:

Mixing romance, suspense, mystery, and humor, the Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated True Blood kicked off its 12-episode fifth season June 10 on HBO. The series follows the exploits of waitress and part-faerie Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), who can hear people’s thoughts; vampire Bill Compton (Stephen Moyer); and vampire Eric Northman (Alexander Skarsgård). Oscar and Emmy Award winner Alan Ball created and serves as executive producer of the series, which is based on the bestselling Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris. The series and this panel also features Ryan Kwanten as Jason Stackhouse, Sam Trammell as Sam Merlotte, Rutina Wesley as Tara Thornton, Nelsan Ellis as Lafayette Reynolds, Deborah Ann Woll as Jessica Hamby, Kristin Bauer van Straten as Pam Swynford De Beaufort, Joe Manganiello as Alcide Herveaux and Chris Meloni as Roman Zimojic. Moderated by Tim Stack of Entertainment Weekly. Ballroom 20

5:00-6:00 Costume Designers and Illustrators: From Concept to Reality:

Join a discussion with the creative minds that help bring your favorite sci-fi, fantasy and comic book characters to life on the big screen through the art of costume design and illustration. Learn how Costume Designers Guild members Shawna Trpcic (The Cabin In The Woods), Monique Prudhomme (Underworld Awakening), and Varya Avdyushko (Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter) and costume illustrators Christian Cordella (Snow White, Hunger Games, Thor), Constantine Sekeris (Green Lantern, Thor, Star Trek), Phillip Boute Jr. (Man of Steel, Star Trek, Hansel & Gretel, Twilight), Brian Velenzuela (Star Trek, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice), and Rosi Gabl (xXx, Mission To Mars) take costumes from concept to reality. Room 24ABC

6:00-7:00 Marvel Studios: Iron Man 3:

Producer Kevin Feige and special guests provide an inside look at the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Hall H

6:00-7:30 A Tribute to the Legendary Ray Bradbury:

Some called him the greatest writer of fantasy of all time. He was a writer of legendary science fiction, an inspiration to generations, and a good friend of Comic-Con. We lost him on June 12, and now many of his friends and colleagues gather to celebrate this extraordinary figure. The guest list is still being finalized as this guide goes to press, but it should include authors William F. Nolan, George Clayton Johnson, Marc Scott Zicree, Joe Hill, and Margaret Atwood, along with figures from the worlds of motion pictures and television. Your hosts are Bradbury biographer Sam Weller (Shadow Show: All-New Stories in Celebration of Ray Bradbury) and Comic-Con special guest Mark Evanier. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Bradbury character. Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

7:30-8:30 Unlocking Arkham: The Forensic Psychiatry of Batman’s Rogues’ Gallery:

Back by popular demand! Broadcast Thought’s original Comic-Con panel with updated information and insights! Arkham Asylum houses some of Gotham City’s most disturbed villains. But are they truly “insane”? From the vantage point of forensic psychiatrists utilizing real-world psychiatric diagnostic criteria, explore the mental disorders that plague The Dark Knight’s Rogues’ Gallery. Probe the minds of villains such as Two-Face, Riddler, Mr. Zsasz, Maxie Zeus, Harley Quinn, the Joker, and others. Are these characters psychotic, or are they psychopaths? What’s the difference? Learn as forensic psychiatrists H. Eric Bender, M.D., Praveen Kambam, M.D., and Vasilis K. Pozios, M.D. discuss the meaning of these terms and explain how criminal defendants are found “not guilty by reason of insanity.” See how Arkham Asylum compares to a real-world forensic hospital. Discover that truth truly is stranger than fiction. Bring your questions, and join the experts as they unlock Arkham Asylum and possibly set some of its “inmates” free! Room 7AB

True Blood Star Stephen Moyer Joins Devil’s Knot

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Stephen Moyer, most known for his role on HBO’s “True Blood” and being married to the adorable Anna Panquin, has announced that he has joined the cast of upcoming film Devil’s Knot.

Devil’s Knot comes from director Atom Egoyan and already has an all star cast including Reese Witherspoon and Colin Firth. Other cast members include Alessandro Nivola, Kris Polaha, Collette Wolfe, Justin Castor and Kevin Durand.

The film will appear as a narrative take on the highly controversial and well known case of the West Memphis Three.

The famous case surrounded Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley, Jr. and Jason Baldwin. The three were believed to be those responsible for the murder of three eight-year-old boys in 1993. All three were recently released from prison this year after spending two decades behind bars. The upcoming film will show the trial and conviction.

The film is based on the book, “Devil’s Knot: The True Story of the West Memphis Three” by Mara Leveritt.

Witherspoon is set to play Pam Hobbs, the mother of one of the original victims, Firth will play as Ron Lax, a private investigator on the case. Moyer will be portraying prosecutor John Fogelman.

There is no word on when the film is set to be released.

Official Dark Knight Rises Website Fully Launches

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The upcoming franchise finale film is less than a month away from hitting theaters with anticipating building every day and finally, Warner Bros has fully launched the film’s official website. TheDarkKnightRises.com is complete with downloadable stills, wallpapers, and more.

The third and final film in Christopher Nolan’s franchise will hit theaters and IMAX on July 20th with an all-star cast.

Christian Bale returns as Bruce Wayne / Batman:

A billionaire socialite dedicated to protecting Gotham City from the criminal underworld. Nolan has stated that, due to the eight-year gap between the events of The Dark Knight and those of The Dark Knight Rises, “he’s an older Bruce Wayne; he’s not in a great state.”

Tom Hardy as Bane:

Hardy stated that he intended to portray the character as “more menacing” than Robert Swenson’s version of the character in Joel Schumacher’s Batman & Robin. Producer Emma Thomas says that Bane “is an interesting match for Batman after the Joker, who was just purely about chaos and playing with people. Bane has a plan.”

Anne Hathaway as Selina Kyle:

Selina Kyle is “an associate” of Bane.

Michael Caine also returns as Alfred Pennyworth:

Bruce’s trusted butler and confidant. Alfred has acted as a father figure to Bruce, and continues to aid Bruce on his missions as well as supplying him with useful advice.

Gary Oldman as James Gordon:

Commissioner of the Gotham City Police Department. One of the city’s few honest police officers. Oldman described his character: “He’s a little reminiscent of the Gordon you see in Batman Begins. They’ve tidied up the city, but there’s still work to be done. He’s very world-weary.”

Morgan Freeman as Lucius Fox:

Fox runs Wayne Enterprises on behalf of Bruce Wayne and serves as his armorer, providing him with high-tech equipment.

Marion Cotillard as Miranda Tate:

A “Wayne Enterprises board member eager to help a still-grieving Bruce Wayne resume his father’s philanthropic endeavors for Gotham.”

Joseph Gordon-Levitt as John Blake:

Blake is a “Gotham City beat cop assigned to special duty under the command of Commissioner Gordon.”

Josh Pence and Liam Neeson both appear as Ra’s al Ghul, leader of the League of Shadows; Pence plays a younger version of the character in scenes set thirty years before the events of Batman Begins, while Neeson reprises his Batman Begins role in a cameo appearance. Other cast members include Nestor Carbonell reprising his role as Mayor Anthony Garcia; Alon Abutbul as Dr. Leonid Pavel, described as “a mad scientist”; Juno Temple as a “street-smart Gotham girl”; Matthew Modine as deputy commissioner Peter Foley; Brett Cullen as a judge; Chris Ellis as a priest; Aiden Gillen as a CIA agent; and Rob Brown, Christopher Judge, Tom Conti, and Joey King in unspecified roles.

The official plot of the film follows the aftermath of the death of District Attorney Harvey Dent, Batman assumes responsibility for Dent’s crimes to protect Dent’s reputation and is subsequently hunted by the Gotham City Police Department. Eight years after the events of The Dark Knight, Batman returns to Gotham, where he encounters the mysterious Selina Kyle and the villainous Bane, and must confront the latter’s plans to destroy the city.

You can also see a brand new HD tv spot for the movie below:

First Look At Tom Cruise In Jack Reacher Adaptation

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The first photo featuring Tom Cruise in the big-screen adaptation of Lee Child’s bestselling 2005 crime saga Jack Reacher, has been released and you can see it above. Cruise will play the titular character in the film, an ex-military policeman turned vigilante drifter, who is drawn into the case of a sniper who randomly targeted civilians.

The film, due in theaters Dec. 21, was adapted from the ninth novel in Child’s series, “One Shot.”

Cruise’s character in the film will differ from his usual ambitious, highly-stressed and charming roles, according to Entertainment Weekly, as this film’s protagonist is a darker and more stoic personality. Christopher McQuarrie, the film’s screenwriter and director, pointed out the dark aspect of Reacher.

“Someone asks him at one point in the story about the difference between a military policeman and a regular cop,” McQuarrie said. “Reacher points out that [for military police], every suspect is a trained killer.”

McQuarrie also told EW that Reacher has very little invested in the present.

“He is free from any sort of anxiety. He is truly not encumbered by all the bulls–t that makes up our daily lives,” he said. “He literally and figuratively has no baggage.”

Reacher does have one valued possession- his 1970 Chevelle SS, which is featured in the film’s just-released promotional photo. In the image, Reacher has just battered the car while escaping from police, who wrongfully suspect him of a murder.

Some fans of the Reacher book series have been quite vocal with their dissatisfaction with the choice of Cruise as their hero. The 5-foot-7 actor is physically far from the massive Reacher described in the text, but Cruise addressed this issue in a video aired at CinemaCon in April.

“For those of you who know the books, I’m obviously not 6-foot-5, like Jack Reacher,” Cruise said. “But Lee felt that I was the right guy to drive fast cars and kick the s–t out of people on-screen.”

Whether or not Cruise is able to pull of the character has yet to be seen. However, he may surprise everyone with his portrayal. We will just have to wait and see.

Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter Fails To Impress – Review

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Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter

Directed by : Timur Bekmambetov

Starring: Benjamin Walker

Adapted from the novel of the same name by Seth Graham-Smith (novel/screenplay)

Why are you interested in this adaptation?

Elena-

I am interested in this movie primarily because all or at least significant parts of it were filmed in New Orleans. I spent a month last year running past a cordoned off section of grass in Audubon Park that was being grown out for use in this movie (seriously, it was labeled). It was enough to make me curious.

The premise…eh, the premise. At least it was an original story, which is more than I can say for Seth Grahame Smith’s atrocious mangling of Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, which I am still upset about not for messing with the canon of Austen but for doing it so fucking badly why did he call them underwear the whole book and oh my god why were there ninjas what the fuck that made no fucking sense and I need to take a deep breath or two and—

Okay. Yeah. So, at least an original story might be easier for him not to fuck up? And maybe there will be good costumes?

Rachel –

I am interested in Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter because I can read English. How can you NOT be interested in a movie that portrays the 16^th President of the United States as an axe-swinging Buffy?

HOW CAN YOU NOT?!

Now granted, I have seen the director’s past works (Nightwatch, Wanted) so I know I’m not in for a Tarantinoesque, tongue-in-cheek homage to the genre (is “Vampire movie” a genre yet?). I am in for a bunch of CGI with a lot of slo-mo and hopefully Benjamin Walker’s naked body.

Elena-

Wait, wait, wait, Nightwatch director did this one? THAT is why I’m interested! Nightwatch was pretty badass, if I recall correctly. I mean, I think it was. I saw it on the pre-theatrical release rough translation that didn’t make much sense subtitles. Or maybe the story just made no sense? But I liked how he handled the film and the vampires in it….

What would make it awesome?

Rachel-

If it WERE a Tarantino film. IT WOULD BE SO AWESOME. Alas, it is not. So I guess it will be awesome if it is funny. The book itself isn’t hilarious beyond its mash-up premise (much like Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, the other Seth Graham-Smith book you’ve heard of), but this is a film adaptation, and by god the premise is so silly they might as well go full comedy.

It’s going to be pretty hard to sit through 2 hours of actual Abe Lincoln grimly dispatching vampires if there isn’t any humor. Give us the Buffy quips!

On second thought – maybe this should have been a Joss Whedon film? I’ll be Enver Gjokaj could pull off Abe! (He can pull off anything…. Including my shirt *puts on sunglasses * YEEEAAAHHHHHH).

Elena-

Hm. I think for me what will make this movie awesome is if they can make me forget I’m watching a movie where Abe Lincoln hunted vampires. Either laughter or emotional investment work to take me to that magical place of unselfconscious suspension of disbelief.

What would make it suck?

Elena-

Ninjas. Seriously, if there are any fucking ninjas in this movie I am walking out of the theater, review or no review.

Aside from that…if it is a Hollywood CG reach-around flick that proves this director only has a vision when he has no budget. That kind of backslide from a promising start always pisses me off.

Rachel-

This is a vampire movie, it’s supposed to suck.

WHY DO YOU ALL HATE PUNS?

This is designed to be a terrible film. So I think a better question would be – how could this film not be FUN? And if it takes its premise too seriously and tries to deliver a straight action film that just happens to star a creepy Lincoln face and a top hat…it will suck.

Thoughts on casting/production?

Rachel-

Well, I’m not going to lie. I’m not a big fan of Timur Bekmambetov. Even James McAvoy’s beautiful face didn’t allow me to see past the fact that he was curving bullets by…essentially…bending his arm. WHAT? DEAR TIMUR – PHYSICS.

But, seeing as this is a movie about how Abe Lincoln is a freaking vampire hunter – I think I’m going to be OK with suspending all rules of the universe.

As to the film’s star, Benjamin Walker. I have no idea who he is? I have a bunch of friends who are into the NYC theater/Broadway scene and they all know exactly who he is – a talented stage star. So awesome! I love it when hard working theater dorks get a fat paycheck. Maybe Ben Walker is the next Hugh Jackman? Is there dancing in this movie? (Thinks about the axe-ballet in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers) TWIRL BENNY, TWIRL!

Elena-

I…no. I didn’t know this was a director whose work I’m familiar with, and I don’t recognize any of the actors, and all I know about the production was the local scuttlebutt about the filming possibly being the reason for half the flock of Bird Island abandoning the site, which if that’s true is inexpressibly upsetting to me from an ecological standpoint since the Audubon Park rookery is one of basically three sites in the entire state where waterbirds nest and breed. Bird Island being abandoned would be like the Central Park red-tails leaving. So…second what Rachel said?

Reaction to film:

Rachel-

I think maybe Benjamin Walker took my “twirl” wish to heart. BOY TWIRLED HIS DAMN ASS OFF!

LOOK AT THOSE TWIRLY BASTARDS!

Full disclosure: I saw this movie with my friends on one of their birthdays. We got drunk on rum beforehand, and I made the birthday girl wear a top hat with a tiara affixed to the front and carry a toy axe. I spent approximately half of the movie laughing my highly sugared ass off.

But not because it was funny.

At one point, I shouted “WHAT IS THIS MOVIE ABOUT?” (Don’t worry. There were only four other people in the theater with us, and they were shouting too, I think.)

We all walked out of the film with shell-shocked looks on our faces. The plot is pretty thin on this one, guys, and it deviates a lot from the book. Abe Lincoln’s mom is eaten by a vampire, and he spends the rest of his life fighting vampires with the help of this vampire he meets, and the bad guy from A Knight’s Tale runs the Confederate army. It is mostly a slow-motion movie with CGI settings in which Ben Walker axe-twirls his way from one sunglass-wearing vamp to the next. Ramona Flowers and Wash from Firefly make a few appearances. Even though the movie covers 30 or so years, no one ages. Except Lincoln, who bizarrely goes from super handsome Ben Walker to creepy wax figure Lincoln. I saw it in 3D, and the slow motion and CGI effects are so cluttered that there are entire scenes where I kind of just sat back and thought about inkblots and sand drawings.

The main conceit of the movie is that evil sunblock-wearing vampires want America to have slaves because it makes it easier for them to have super boring parties in their shitty mansions with walking buffets. Or something. This made me feel squicky, not gonna lie. I’m not sure I’m at the point in my life where I can … write off slavery as something resulting from supernatural bullshit in an action movie. Lincoln even uses the Underground Railroad to transport silver to Gettysburg so they can kill the vampire army! I MEAN WHO WRITES THIS AND THINKS IT’S NOT OFFENSIVE? Lincoln was basically Moses…an axe-twirling, horse-catching, train-crashing Moses. Only he was a white dude, and the Hebrew slaves were black. Squicky.

OH right…the HORSE TOSSING. Let’s talk about thaaaat.

So there is this ridiculous scene where Lincoln chases a bad vamp via a herd of horses that magically transport them from somewhere in Illinois to the Grand Canyon. This CGI herd of horses runs and runs while Lincoln and vampire ride and run and hop their way across them. The vampire picks up a horse…and CHUCKS it at Lincoln who CATCHES the horse, puts it down and swings up like Legolas to continue riding the horse.

WUT? WHAAAAT?!!!

I don’t even.

Elena-

No CG horses were harmed in the making of this film!

Not a joke, y’all. There’s a scene where the herd is scuttling along the edge of the mysteriously grand canyon in the middle of Illinois, and the horses that start to fall off the edge all manage to regain their balance and not fall to their deaths. Seriously, this movie was like Abe Lincoln of Mars with its regard for (by which I mean, complete and utter ignorance of) the actual laws of physics.

Rachel-

Meanwhile Lincoln has this superhot vampire friend who is remarkable only in his sunglasses collection who teaches him not to be a bigot against vampires (but we already know Lincoln isn’t a bigot because he’s also got black friends)…and also teaches him the way of Vampire fu. It makes you crazy strong even if you are NOT vampire, and that is why Abe can catch horses and chop down trees in one fell swoop.

Elena-

Yeah, about that…how was that “one stroke” when he took like…10 swings? And then the tree falls? Um. Unless he was hitting a different tree each time I’m pretty sure there was a cumulative effect happening. Just sayin’.

Rachel-

SERIOUSLY YOU GUYS. WHAT IS UP WITH THIS MOVIE?

Abe Lincoln, who does nothing but lie to people in the film (hilarious?), was strangely uncompelling. The action scenes were monotonous; the blame slavery on evil vampires plot made me uncomfortable, and most importantly it wasn’t funny. I can’t imagine how torturous this film would have been if I had not been inebriated.

Elena-

Alas, for any of our readers who might have been interested in a sober analysis of the film, neither can I. I, too, got rummy for this film (literally…by drinking RUM, because I live in New Orleans, which in the summertime is basically the Caribbean and used to be sugar cane capital of the continent, and rum is what we drink here). I went straight college style, just before the movie I dumped a third of my Coke into the toilet and poured in the bottle. I was worried I might miss (“I wouldn’t say I’ve been missing it, Bob”) the opening of the movie because of my liquor detour, but I took that time anyway because I saw this movie on Thursday after a full week to contemplate its 35% on Rotten Tomatoes, and…no. Anyway, I didn’t miss a thing except a couple shitty previews for shitty movies I know I won’t be seeing.

Right. So, the movie. The movie was…yes: the movie was.

Rachel covered the salient points of how there was not much of a plot and the various “characters” just kind of showed up and said lines and how the action on screen was frenetic and hard to follow. And derivative. There was nothing new in these action sequences, just 50 Shades of Neo.

Rachel hits the point that underscores much of my discomfort with urban fantasy as a genre: it reduces either or both human problems and human redemption to the mercy of non-human influences. Both are insulting. Reducing both the entire argument for secession to “we want slaves” and the entire concept of institutionalized slavery to being so vampires have an easy food supply is just…asinine. As a Southerner I am insulted by the implication that the only reason the South won some of the battles was because the Confederate Army was all vampires. As an American I am saddened that the single most devastating war in our history was reduced to righteous humans versus evil, evil vampires. I guess that whole brother versus brother thing was just a lie. Riiiiiight.

I actually think the idea of vampires fighting because they wanted a nation of their own to be quite compelling. If the film hadn’t been so set on blaming slavery on the vampires, there could actually have been a really compelling subplot about what the vampires wanted and how maybe their desire for freedom was perhaps legitimate. But instead the vampire leaders were all caricatures of villains, and not nearly smart enough to have actually been around long enough to be certain they were immortal. They couldn’t train rob as effectively as the crew of Serenity, and they lived in mansions that were old and run-down and shitty even though IN THE TIME THIS IS SET THE HOUSE WOULD HAVE BEEN NEW. In the end I think my complaint is pretty much the same as it was with P&P&Z: there was a lot of potential for a really great story, and all of it was squandered.

But at least the vampires were appropriately monstrous in their miens. And none of them sparkled. And they at least tried to show the progression of time via Ramona Lincoln’s dresses.

Still. None of it was enough to make this movie good or even enjoyable. All I can say is, it lived up to every bit of its 35%.