Top Ten Television Villains Part 2

Well, time to finish up my Villains list. To tell the truth this was even harder to do than my heroes list. In this top ten list, you may find an increase in animated characters. That's just because I have seen so many in animation I can't help but choose them. I would also like to remind you that I have not seen many shows and I usually keep to the ones I watch. Without anything else hindering us, here are my final five villains of television.(PS. Videos contain spoilers)

Number 5. The Governor(The Walking Dead). This guy is so likable at first glance, you can't help but be taken in by his charm. The first element of Villains: lure the audience into a false sense of security. His southern comfort charm work's his way into Andrea, but only Michonne is unconvinced. When we see his true colors, we see the mind of the killer and dictator. We shed a bit of sympathy for his part as he truly came from somewhere where he lost everything. Now, leading humanity is his only comfort and goal. In the comics, he not only led the battle in a horrific victory, but he also caused the death of Laurie, her child, most of the survivors and the brain damage of Carl. he lost a bit of his intimidating look in the show, but he is definitely a purely sadistic, evil, single minded monster.

Number 4. Jim Moriarty (Sherlock). One of the original arch-enemies of literature and transcribed to the small screen. When I think of Sherlock, I think of Benedict Cumberbatch as the archetype Sherlock Holmes. When I think of Moriarty, I think of Andrew Scott, for plays him so well. We all know that Batman and the Joker were inspire by Sherlock and Moriarty, but here it seems like Moriarty was inspired partially by the Joker. He is a lunatic, taking to disguises, taunting and mocking Holmes and seeming to actually fall in love with hating Holmes. His final plan is a mastery of criminal genius and I certainly get elements of the criminal genius part in his portrayal along with his "web of criminal industry". The only thing about him that should have stayed the same was being a professor. But he shows off his villainy just due to how much he hates and loves Sherlock Holmes.

Number 3. Azula (Avatar the last Airbender). You may have noticed a change in the rankings, well this addition is important. The newly discovered series, Avatar the last airbender, is now one of my favorite TV shows of all time (I'll go into it more in December) and it also has one of the best villains of all time. Azula is one mean character, manipulative, angry, restrained (most of the time) and loving each moment of it. Appearing in the final episode of Series one, she is revealed to be sister to the shows secondary protagonist, Zuko, and daughter of the Fire Lord. Those and her will make her a dangerous adversary to Aang and his friends. In fact she is one of the few villains to kill her enemy (but he was revived later, slightly depowered). But does that stop her...noooo, instead she must torment her brother continuously. Unlike most villains who get boring after accomplishing their goals, she get's even more interesting as her psyche worsens and her maniacal mind comes full swing. Not to mention she can shoot fire and lightning, as well as being an already accomplished opponent. Yikes, I'm so on team Avatar. She amazes me and infuriates me at the same time. The only reason I would let her win, seeing that smirk on her face for each victory, is so that I can wipe it off when she has finally been eradicated.

  

Number 2. The Daleks (Doctor who). Near the top we have the most ruthless creatures to grace the screen(And for those Trekkie's out there, I do not watch Star Trek{except the movies}, so no Borg or Klingon's on this list, besides the Daleks came first). At a young age watching TV aimlessly, I came across an advert for the series Doctor Who coming out on DVD, but what I notice is the robotic beings flying in space. After that I was hooked. At a young age these guy's scared me half to death, the low metallic voice, unflinching fascist code and the sense of mystery. What is underneath those metal shells, what were they?  Now a days they don't scare me as much. Ever since I found out that an octopus inhabits the body, I became more obsessed with the motivation of such beings. They took the worst elements of the Nazi Party and stripped it down to it's simplest. They just want everyone to die and for them to survive as the pure race. Topped off with the fact that they caused more tragedy in the Doctors life than any other being, with the mass killing of the time lords and many on earth, it is no wonder why these are the only beings the Doctor has no qualms breaking his rule on no guns and genocide if it means wiping out the entire hate filled race from the galaxy.

Number 1. The Joker (all incarnations). When it comes to villainy, nobody does it better. You may think, "wow this is like the third list Joker has appeared on as a villain or as a character". But I cannot help it. What can Luther do, try to take over the world. What can the Daleks do try and eradicate every being in the universe inferior to them. What can the Joker do? Kill who he wants and spread anarchy and chaos. Where all other villains try to do bad things, usually causing some collateral damage along the way, they fail at the last minute and there plans go down the crapper. But Joker just does things and is proud of his result. And how can you forget that laugh, it seems all versions have a different spin on his laugh. What makes him menacing and a likable villain is the comedy and portrayal. while all the previous villains I have listed so far are just dark, he is dark and humorous. The best perpetrators are Cesar Romero from the 1960's Batman(he is just so enjoyable and fun) and Mark Hamill from Batman the animated series, Justice league, The new adventures of Batman and the rest of the DCAU(he can be dark, threatening, but mostly humorous). Other versions are pretty good. 'The Batman'(anime) version is kinda good and 'the Brave and the bold' is only OK. If you think the Joker is good then the top two shows are for you.

  

And that is all for my Television Month, I hope you enjoyed it. Please comment if you have a favorite villain from television. Please note that this is all opinion and not to be taken seriously. As you can see I don't watch too much Television. And I do realize that I used two Doctor Who enemies rather than the required one. But he has such a vast amount of enemies that I do like, that I would very much like to talk more about it in November with Doctor Who Month, to celebrate the 50th anniversary. Please have a nice day and I hope you enjoyed TV Month. My next review is of Scott Pilgrim vs The World.

Top Ten Television Villains

 Well here it is as promised, my apologies for the delay. In television we have always had the connection to villains. There is something so interesting that draws us to them. Whether it be the actor who is portraying them or the character of supreme villainy, here are my favorite Television villains. I also need to point out that the videos I choose to represent the respective characters may contain spoilers, so only click the video if you have seen the show past the first series(or if you are just so curious).

10.Saffron(Firefly). Watching a series that only lasted fourteen episodes leaves little room for reoccurring villains.But for what it's worth the villains they got were done very well. But non quite so well as Saffron. She is the type of villain who might seem like, "OK, she marry's, robs and/or kills her mark and then leaves to find a new one". But the more I thought about it, the more I realized they could really have taken her somewhere. She could have become more deranged, more murderous and more desperate for cash. Christina Hendricks portrays this beautiful vixen of cons so innocently, while at the same time so seductively that it does not leave much to the imagination. Not only is she sexy, but she is trained in combat holding her own against Mal and Jayne. And speaking of Mal, she marries him and attempts to kill him on other multiple times. Of all the villains to appear on firefly, the one who rang twice is clearly the winner. 

9. Stewie Griffin(Family Guy). When most people think of Villains on Family Guy, they usually think of the Chicken or James Woods. But most remember that Stewie was a very diabolical toddler. At a young age developing mind control weapons and lasers, as well devising plans for world conquest. Let us not forget that an episode did show us that Stew could take over the world. But how can we forget that he is also one of the funniest characters, with the best, most imitable voice on television. He has become a bit of a side-kick character with good jokes but not to much attention to planning world domination. He has also become more closet homosexual, but I don't mind for it leaves way for some really good jokes. At least the series still has the old episodes where we can acknowledge the evil child for what he once was.

Number 8.BOB(Twin Peaks). I have said in an early script fix that giving a character a good back story and emotional dept helps us relate more to that character. But when that character is shrouded in mystery, it is all the more terrifying. BOB is an entity of an evil spirit who possesses and manipulates people for his own misdeeds. And I should probably stop there. If I was to give away anything about this character, it would disrupt the series so heavily, you would think it was the most pointless thing to be watching right now. Portrayed by Frank Silva, he was originally a carpenter on set. When creator David lynch overheard a chat between one of the stars and him about being trapped in a wardrobe, that combined with his freaky look gave Lynch the idea to use him as the Killer BOB. As an entity that feeds on fear, but even Cooper is smart enough to fear, that is enough to scare even me away.

Number 7.Sideshow Bob(The Simpsons). Another Bob for the villain list(must be like most evil people are called Bob). Some would say that Mr Burns is more deserving of a villain rank, but truthfully, I just think of him as an undoubtedly evil, eccentric, industrialist billionaire. Bob here has always been a villain from his first showing he was always bitter, now we see that he is a fully fledged maniac. A good example of fame going to your head or how it be a drug in our lifestyle. From the framing of Krusty the clown to the attempted murder of Patty Bouvier and Bart Simpson. His psychotic mind is no match however for the likes Bart and Lisa and the Rake(remember that scene). What makes him so funny is that he is clearly a genius and knows what to do and how to do it, he is so incompetent that his ego thwarts as easily as a rake. he is a satire of the serial killer genre in soap opera, this is comedies answer. If you want to see a good example of his villainy, I recommend Cape Feare.

Number 6.  The Master(Doctor Who). When it comes to the Napoleon of Crime, talk to Moriarty. But when it comes to the conqueror of Earth, look no further than the Master. Hailing from the planet of Gallifrey and friends with the Doctor at youth, The Master was exposed to the untampered schism(A rip in time) and was driven insane. Mad with vengeance, his one true thorn in his side was always the Doctor. Foiling his many plots over the years, one of them causing him to age without regeneration and witness the Master actually winning his prize as ruler of earth. Like Stewie or Saffron, he occasionally helps the Protagonist, but always with his best interests put first. Of all the enemies on this list he is one of the few to actually accomplish a goal and is the only one to be a shared arch-nemesis with another being. With the power of time travel at his hands, with all the abilities the same as the Doctor and his burning Hatred for the man, the Master is the most evil timelord to conquer the Galaxy.

 Today as per usual list I will only be doing my first five, followed by the next list featuring my last five. I have received some complaints about my choices in the previous blog, mainly with number one. But I stand by my choices and this merely serves as an expression of my opinion. Come back soon to check out other updates and please pass this on to your friends. Fell free to comment and please...Have a nice day!

Top ten television Heroes part 2

Continuing from yesterdays successful blog, I will now finish my list. Something you may notice is that I only have one female favorite character. I don't really watch too much television and I will only choosing from ten TV shows with a representative from each. So keep an open mind that this is merely my opinion on who are some really good heroes. So let us begin at:

Number 5. Dr. Sheldon Cooper. This is the funniest (well, intentionally funniest) Live character on this list. But not only that, he represents the person I would like to be. Arrogant, Genius and totally devoid of any humanity. His insane methods and irrational feuds and fears place him high on the list as I love the Laughs this guy delivers and the characteristics I would like to have. If not, I would probably like being Leonard, what with him being book smart and street smart and a bit of a bachelor. If these two had never met I doubt Sheldon would have changed at all, he barely changes other than getting a girlfriend like Amy. If you believe that relationship will work out join the party. His cover of all things that make him socially awkward strikes a bit of a personal tone with me but as for whom I would love to associate myself with join me at one and two.

Number 4. Homer Simpson. Well why not, he is going to be our only representation of animated television, why not be one of the most famous in pop-culture. He gets all the best lines, portrays the best of physical humor and is just an all-around nice guy. Yeah he picks on Ned, he strangles his son(which I now realize is quite a horrible idea for it can be quite gruesome in real life) and he can be intolerable at times, but he is very persevering in his "Goals", he loves his wife and he just wants to have a happy eventful life. His love of his wife and children can be very touching at times and he can have the most extraordinary life any man can just wish for. He is the first cartoon character I saw as a child and I grew up laughing at his antics. Doh! I forgot if you want to know my second favorite characters are its the squeaky voiced teen and the mustache guy that shows up doing everything(Raphael). I'll put a video of Homer and this guy just for safe measure. 

Number 3. Special agent Dale Cooper, FBI. Dale is the funniest(non-intentional) character in a drama series, but humor isn't the only contributing factor in my choices. He is a clever detective with the wit to match and the strangest of mannerisms that I merely find quaint. I mean what show can make ordering coffee more important than character development, Twin Peaks that's what. He also is very mystical and open minded, much like the sheriff with whom he works with. Anyone who has entered a community that is a little different, knows how hard it can be to earn the trust of the locals and to learn to love the town. He does it in one day. He is not without his limits though, such as James constantly ending up talking to Cooper or the murderer always finding a way to be one step ahead, these can really irritate him and its good to show this considering he can look at being shot at as a minor inconvenience. His mystical beliefs, good hearted, open minded nature combined with sharp wit and an admiration for little things like donuts and coffee, make him a Damn fine character.

Number 2. Sherlock Holmes and John Watson. Again another dual category, but these two again are so vital for each other concerning the version I am referring to. I, of course, refer to the series Sherlock.  Now is there any real explanation why I put these two so high, throughout the list my common recurring characteristic was intelligence or uncommon mannerisms. Sherlock is the archetype of all the above characters, except he does what he does, because he wants to show off, though deep down you know it's really because he knows its right. His mannerisms are that of the original. So when I think of Sherlock  Holmes, Cumberbatch's performance isn't an adaption into modern times like Elementry or portrayed today in the past like Robert Downy Jr, but it is Sherlock he is the man under the deer stalker. It Really is quite elementary. 

And now for Watson. Where Holmes inspired Dr House and Agent Cooper, Watson, in my opinion, inspired Sheriff Truman and Atticus. These are the every man, who represent us the viewer or the reader. We dream of doing theses amazing things but Only true John can we see how they are done. Watson Represents the amateur detective in all of us, the man who wants to help, even in the face of danger. I look up to Watson for he looks up to other when he is also their equal.

Number 1. The Doctor. Yes you all saw this coming, but did we not enjoy the ride...ow, apparently not. But of course the doctor is number one and I think that is fact. The hero, the spaceman, he is Mal, Sherlock, Cooper, Winters, and Sheldon all combined into one. He is the man I watched growing up, he fascinated me ever since I saw him. I also think this is the most shared joint number one on a list ever, due to how many regeneration's he's had and the Doctor spans each one. The Doctor represents all of my fantasies of saving the world or giving back to it(in Style) and being someone who will do something and find friends and fun in the most unlikely of places. He is a character I love, cherish and admire. I love you, Doctor Who.

And so those are my favorite heroes of television, please feel free to comment and pass on this blog to your friends. As I have already said this is all opinion and not to be taken seriously. I hope that I have represented these characters the best I could and for those who have not watched any or one of these shows I hope I have inspired you. Whats your favorite villains on television, to find out mine come back tommorow. as always have a lovely day and I hoped you enjoyed my Top Ten TV Heroes.

  

Top ten television Heroes

In television, we are met with a wide array of characters to choose from. Some good, some bad and some interesting. Through my viewings of the shows this month for reviewing, I have compiled a list of characters of whom the best of human ability and humanity is portrayed. In this review I will be concentrating mainly on characters that I find interesting and for the first time I am using video clips to emphasize my point.  Now I know that after the first five, some of you will recognize who will be in my top three, but don't let it sway you. So without further a due, these are my top ten Favorite TV Heroes.

10. Dr Gregory House, MD. This character has flaw's, no question. His attitude towards social interaction is pessimistic to say the least. His bedside manner is appalling. He is sarcastic, arrogant and unhinged. But I love him just for those reasons. His arrogance is welcomed due to how clever he is, his flaws make him stronger personality wise and his unhinged nature gives us a welcomed departure from the classic heart of gold doctor who just wants to help, House is just bored and wants to be entertained. Te harder the case, the more involved he is. And I just love his wise cracks. I only learned later that Hugh Laurie is the one who played him and that he played the imbecile Friend to Blackadder. So some of me can't take him seriously, while the other is open minded to not letting Hugh be typecast to Blackaddder.

9. Rimmer and Lister. You might think I am cheating but truth is: I can do what I want. But in all seriousness these two need each other, like Miles and Jack from Sideways(Good movie by the way, might want to check it out yourself). These two off set each other perfectly. They have a love/hate relationship, leaving the feeling as though Rimmer is the brother Lister never had and Lister is likewise. I'm not to say that is all they have to offer Red dwarf. In fact the fact that they insult each other and they are always at each others throats makes for some very decent comedy. Lister, a loudmouth, crude slob, and Rimmer, a pathetic, pedantic Perfectionist, are individually the worst people you can meet. But their contrasting nature works well. If opposites attract, then these are stuck together like glue.

8. Malcolm 'Mal' Reynolds. The original Space Cowboy. Mal is everything the cowboy is, tough, good fighter, quick-witted, a marksman and is a true leader. He just isn't what makes a cowboy noble. No moral center or code, no sense of respect for the rules or whoever he goes up against. Nobody want's a true hero, they need to be human, they have strengths and flaws that make them who they are. But Mal has more than that, he has a sense of adventure, he respects each member of his crew, even those who don't deserve it( in his own professional opinion). If there is one thing I dislike about him is how cold he can be. When he kills It's like it doesn't register that he ended someones life. But when push comes to shove, this is a dangerous galaxy he lives in and in the end only he can save the day. That's why I like him.

7. Michonne: I was thinking that Daryl and Rick are decent characters, as well as them appearing in one of the best TV shows ever(no review, that show is mainstream and is not a guilty pleasure everyone likes it), but she has so much mystery to her. She has all the qualities of Rick and Daryl and also has the past that makes root and yearn for her. Plus she actually attacked the Governor, where are you on that Rick? She is a bad ass with a kitana, her bravery is matched only by her loyalty and we might soon find out more about this mysterious hunter in the night. I like to think she was one of the nicest people you could meet, before getting cold and remorseless with the world due to the world taking everything she loves. 

6. Lt. Richard Winters. I know, I know, he isn't fictional and he was in a mini-series. Well it was a good mini-series and Winters is the best damn soldier on the list. He goes on the front line to witness the worst of war-time events from leading a lost group of Paratroopers on the D-day landings to befriending the whole of easy company during the Battle of the Somme. His spirit and optimism is never diminished despite the events occurring around him and he is the anchor for his friend Nixon who obviously is gradually getting worse as the series progresses(worse in spirit I mean). He is a man I would die in battle for.

Well that's all for today. Tomorrow I will finish my list of Top ten TV characters and then do my Top ten TV Villains. I apologize to those of you who didn't see love/hate, the wire or lost on here, but the truth is i don't watch them. If you would like to tell me your favorite character on TV feel free to comment below.

Twin Peaks

 Now, I may only be eighteen episodes in, but this has already roped me in with its surreal nature, clever imagery and decent mystery. From the director of Eraserhead and Blue velvet, comes this startling tale of secrets, corruption and dreams. After season 2, the series was cancelled due to falling views. Already you see the pattern in these shows that I review. At the end of the show it didn't clarify all answers and many found it, Unpleasant would be a kind word.

So whats the story: Laura Palmer connected to almost everyone in Twin Peaks, is found murdered. As the whole town mourns, FBI Special agent Dale Cooper is sent in to investigate. I think i'll stop right there, for as the story progresses many others of the town have their secrets revealed. Along the way Laura's friends, Donna and James, help to investigate into the murder. Not only does the town start to open up to Cooper and Sheriff Harry S. Truman( that won't be too hard to remember), but Cooper falls in love with the town and all it has to offer.

I should point out now that I have a more surreal outlook on these films and shows I review, I have seen so many that it is more common to me than it is to you. Like the strange imagery, using Hallucinations to explain and give entertaining yet cryptic exposition, and there is the characters. This show is filled with as much as the worst of humanity as the best. We have wife beaters, drunks, estranged family members and ex-convicts.
Of all these, Leo Johnson and Ben Horne are my most despised. Leo beats his wife and takes her for granted, while Ben owns a brothel extorting whatever and whomever he wants. Now these guy's are evil but also interesting. My most hated character is Bobby. This punk doesn't know whats good for him and is always lashing out at the law, his parents and his ''employer''. Another one I don't really get is James. This guy is like a discount Cory Moneith(Note: Cory Moneith was an awesome guy and I would have liked to see him in more roles, Bless his soul). But they look so similar and he almost acts like Finn, only his emotions aren't always shown and he flip-flops between emotional and a hard as nails biker.

Also if your not a Business nut, then all this talk of fraud, scandal and sales can get tiresome and boring unless you really care or understand. The plot can go all over the map, as you find a new twist in each episode, a different affair to be discovered and mystical elements to unnerve and discomfort you  as best they can. Unless you can surrender to the madness and convoluted nature of the show, I doubt you will enjoy it much.

But that's not to say that all is lost. The show is for a certain taste. The whole underworld of the towns human nature is unassuming and jaw-dropping. And the comedy hits dead on. Dale is such a catch. He went from eccentric nature lover to hard hitting knuckles down detective. He is among the many Sherlock Holmes inspired characters in popular fiction these days. But I will get to him on a later date. Other characters I like include Harry, for his wide eyed amazement but keeps to his gut and obey's procedure when neccesary(and ignores at other times.), Deputy Hawk and Andy are great characters in themselves. Members of the FBI that help out are a great laugh every once in a while. Audrey plays the sultry temptress who only wants to help(I forgot to mention that she is only eighteen). I really can't say anymore about the characters, there are too many that I like to list.

 Like I said, if you can buy the absurdity of this whole series, it is well worth the watch. I am sorry I can't go into more detail on the plot or explain more characters, but to do so would mean to explain almost everything in the series revealing plot point after plot point. I hope you enjoyed today's review, look out for my next two top ten lists on hero's and villains of television. If you have seen tht series tell me what you thought in three sentences or less. Have a nice day and again thanks for watching.

Script Fix

Justice League

At a young age I think you will agree, we have all watched a cartoon series that we loved more than any other. For me that series was Batman The Animated Series. Not only did it feature my favorite Superhero of all time, but it was dark, brooding and more serious than most shows were at the time. Now you might be thinking how has this show held the test of time so well that I am talking about it today. The answer is in the subject of this blogger channel you come to most often for. Yes, not only is the show well regarded by critics as one of the best animated shows ever(there's a difference between kids shows and this), but it also has a cult following by comic nerds and animation aficionado's. The show was so well received, that it received multiple extensions in other shows. One of these was Justice league/Justice league unlimited. The show was also a hit, but had lost some of its fans due to certain additions or changes. Today we will look at my second favorite animated TV series and at the same time fix it. 

1. Keeping the mature themes. In this show the first two seasons looked at the main seven, their past, their exploits and their personalities. But as the show went on, it began to give in to the younger, more hip audience by changing the epic opening theme with...a rock song, really?! Also the Flash had become a little more childish, rather than the cocky comic relief. But for what really annoyed me, follow me to number two.
2. The villains need more depth. In Batman the animated series(BTAS, It's shorter) the stories were dark, tragic and deep, examining the psyche of not only Batman, but also his enemies, making them sympathetic and relatable. Here they are just enemies to be stopped, not reasoned with. Also the series really needed some more of the original series villains. People like Mr Freeze is one of my favorite batman villains due to how sympathetic he is. The same can be said for Catwoman or Ra's al Ghul, both have reasons for why they do what they do, to survive or because of their beliefs. Here, the villains are more simplistic, doing things because it's evil. This too began more around Unlimited. Occasionally the villain they had was developed, but for the most part they were kind of weak. So some effort is required. I'm not saying they all need an emotionally crippling back-story, but a bit more depth and reason is required.
3. Batman Beyond. I need to get this out...I disliked this show. I mean the premise wasn't bad, the whole idea of batman retiring and needing a replacement. But by god was it depressing. all the old characters dead, Batman being recluse and The Joker is gone. Worse still, batman recounts Barbra Gordon as the one that got away. I like Barbra, I really do, but the fact that batman has no one, not even Selina Kyle(Catwoman) to be with. And the fact that the JL was heading towards that despite how optimistic about the future it might be, it can be a little disappointing some times. So I say cut of all ties with Batman Beyond and leave the future up to the fans.
4. Everyone is a bad-ass(or at least good at there jobs). When I first saw the series I remember thinking,"Batman is a bad-ass", but now thinking back, most of the league was awesome. Except for Superman. Seriously in each episode is either punched into space, blown up, zapped or exposed to kryptonite(Where do they get it all?). It would be better if Superman was a bad-ass or if it was shared out equally. Just saying, this is more of a nitpick.
5. The Character design should be individual. If you saw BTAS first and then compared the animation style of each, you will notice brighter colors and sharper lines. After Superman the animated series, the design for the characters were used on Batman and most shows after. In BTAS each character is a little more individual, with kinder curves and smooth movements. That's not to say It's all bad. Call me sexist if you want(not a request), but the women in the show all looked like supermodels...and I'm OK with that.
6. Finally, The first three episodes. Aside from robbed plot-elements from War of the worlds, the show literally threw the league at us. Batman follows Superman to find the Martian Manhunter, they are immediately joined by Hawkgirl, Wonder Woman and Green Lantern right out of nowhere. Flash is given a pass as he appeared in previous episodes of Superman, but these guy's come without much of an intro. Just 'we need help...oh here they are'. They refer to them as if they have been with us for a while and we know them. I guess the idea was reveal there character over the coarse of a few episodes. But showing us them saving someone or doing what they do can help us identify them. Maybe they could have had cameos in the multiple other series. Just give them a proper intro next time.

And now for whats good. Can't do that, it's way too good. Aside from the fixes, I stand by my love of this show. It's a guilty pleasure and a cult classic, two things I enjoy. Now If you have never heard of or seen the series, allow me to give you my ten favorite episodes. 

10: Legends. Not only a love letter to the comic book and nostalgia fans, but it has a decent mystery behind it all.

 9:Secret Society. Trust is put to the test as Grodd pulls together a super group to take down the JL.  

 8:A Better world. A good what if episode that sets up for some decent plot points later in the series.

 7: Double Date. Two of my favorite hero's go on a mission to bring a convict to justice, while we receive some background on an otherwise bad ass hero 

 6.Starcrossed. An interesting secret about hawkgirl, as the hero's must go to their lowest low to defeat an impossible enemy.

 5:  This Little Piggy. A good return for one of my favorite hero's and some of the Batman/Wonder Woman relationship is delved into. Also the climax will have you laughing for hours.

 4:Flashpoint Saga. The hero's must deal with negative backlash and government meddling when an  old enemy returns.

 3:Wild cards. Featuring a joker that is out of control and in for the win. Also the easter egg in that the super group hired by the Joker is voiced by the cast of Teen Titans.  

 2:The Terror Beyond. Delve into a world of HP Lovecraft, with a surreal world of monsters, questions on faith and one of the saddest endings on the show. 

1:Alive/Destroyer. The villains latest plan goes horribly wrong as they must seek out the help of their only enemies in the final episode of the show. What an ending.

Any episodes you feel I left out please comment. Any shows you want me to review, do not be afraid to ask. Thank you for reading and good day to you.

Doctor Who

This TV month is not to be completed without my favourite television show of all time, Doctor Who. Since it's creation in 1963, the show has evolved over the years. From the campy, cheap and creepy to a action packed, thrilling and intelligent show. For those of you that don't know, the show was cancelled in 1989, around the same time Red Dwarf was really starting. So for 26 years, it is the longest running science fiction television show in the world. The series was attempted to be revived in 1996 with a TV movie, which while not bad, it certainly left a lot to be desired. But the series was finally revived for a second time in 2005. with Russell T Davies as head writer and Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant and Matt Smith as the lead roles, that ensured a long lasting show that will eventually lead to a mainstream and cult following. For this time I will only review the revived series.

The story, for those few of you who don't know: A Time lord named The Doctor travels through time and space in a space ship called the Tardis(Time And Relative Dimensions In Space). His race, the Time Lords, were wiped out in a war against many beings and creatures throughout time and space(this later becomes the focus of the series as The Doctor is still shrouded in mystery and gradually facts are revealed about him throughout the series). After landing in London(you will be seeing a lot of London, this is where most of the first two series action takes place), he meets Rose one of the first companions(these are people who travel with the doctor) and over the coarse of the series meets new allies and enemies. His most recurring enemies are the Daleks, Cybermen, and the Master. Of all my favourite episodes The Daleks will appear in most of them. The Doctor also has the ability to regenerate, meaning when the actor retires, quit's, is fired or dies, then a new actor steps in and The Doctor changes. This also causes a change in personality, from being serious to being childish. For those of you who want info on the show in no time at all, watch The Fine Bros on youtube for a six minute explanation of the mythos. 

I love this series because of its characters and stories in this show. I have said that Red Dwarf was very clever with their stories. This more or less sticks to travelling to planets or to different points in time. In fact it is explained by the Doctor, that travelling to parallel universes is impossible. This almost limits the stories, but each story is more for telling the life of the Doctor as seen by the companions. The effects are good for the most part. I mean did the sea devils, Cybermen and axons look real to you growing up. Now the suits are metal or a very metal looking plastic and the ships look, very CGI. The cult for the show came in the 70's and 80's. when the threat of nuclear war was dwindling and the there was so much space to explore. The effect and props, while cheesy, did have a feel to them. Even if they didn't look real, they were most definitely scary. If there is one aspect about doctor who I miss, it's feeling scared. The closest I got to that was the weeping angels. at first they frightened me(I couldn't even sleep well at night) , but after the effect began to ware off.

 They had to be clever and practical when it came to monsters planets and spaceships. Did you know the TARDIS hum is actually a key on piano strings. Now it is like the series is set in Cardiff. Because that's where they film all the time. Sometimes a world will look real, army's need to be large and buildings are impossible, but they can become a bit of an eyesore.

I am also going to say this now. I LOVE MATT SMITH'S DOCTOR. He is so eccentric, likable, threatening, intelligent and enjoyable. His youth has opened a world of enjoyment. When we first saw the doctor in 2005, in thirty seconds he showcased a whole array of skills from fancy shuffling to deductive reasoning. Now he has learned a whole array of new talents. Like the Fifth doctor(who played cricket), he plays one of England's favorite sports, Football( or soccer for anyone from America, don't worry I call it that too). In fact the person who annoys me the most is River, I don't care about her or her mystery. I never thought the Doctor would marry(OK I though it would be Rose, I was Eleven) and it would certainly not be this woman. I know they are trying to get across a mystery with this character, but it should only be given to the Doctor. Also I love Clara. As well as being the most beautiful companion since Captain Jack(Just Kidding!!!, Since Freema Agyeman, that's right, I said it), but she is hands on, intelligent, can match wits with the Doctor and her backstory and mystery are top notch. I hope to see more of her in the next few series.

But the reason the show is loved is the Doctor and the companions and the legacy it has created. Who can forget that opening theme. There is another guy on youtube, BrianRimmer, who has all the themes in one video if you want to hear them. By the end you will feel the same effect as ingesting a large amount of LSD. For those of you who love the show like I do, are you excited for the 50th anniversary. please comment to let me know. Also I will being doing a top ten Doctor Who episodes in the near future, please tell what are your favorites.
 Thank you for reading, have a nice day(or night or evening or afternoon depending on the time zone)

Robot chicken

Of all the TV shows I am going to review or have reviewed, this is the funniest. It is complete nonsense and insanity, but that just draws me in more. They throw out all the stops literally thinking of everything and taking advantage of the premise and animation style. I see what makes the show so appealing and what draws a cult following. Created by Matthew Senreich and  Family guys Seth Green, they really show a fan boy side of themselves and even provide a few additional voices.

So lets look at it. The premise is really just a sketch show, much like ASDF Movies or Who's line is it anyway or Mad TV. the only difference is that it is all done through stop motion animation. And what do they use. Action figures, dolls, puppets, Lego mini-figures and collectors items. They can anything and everything. If there is a pattern or recurring trend/joke, it's the characters. Alongside the creators parodying themselves on the show, they have also created a cast of interesting characters such as a whiney, Jerry Lewis/Steve Urkel inspired nerd, a mute mad scientist, the Robot chicken, composite Santa/Jack frost, Bitch-puddin'(seriously...what?),etc. The sketch's and themes are really nolanising(taking a subject of fiction and placing them in a realistic environment) pop-culture character like comic book hero's, movie characters, celebrities, recent events and much more.
So something like GI Joe in Iraq, Batman finally convicting the joker through a proper use of the justice system or Optimus Prime Suffering from prostate related problems. Other times there are specials and the special has the sketch's tie together in the conclusion.

My favourite episodes are four of its special, Robot Chicken Star Wars I-III and Robot Chicken DC Special. If you ever get a chance to see it, you should, it's worth the half hour of your day to watch guy's make doll's and puppets shout obscenities'. Essentially you could just watch Jeff Dunham.

I love the whole absurdity of this show, the way they will push what they can put on screen, but will never surpass there boundaries. Each character is memorable, although not developed, but being a comedy all they really need is a definitive personality. They have no time to stick to these characters, they have a show to do. All the shorts are available on Youtube, so check it out by typing in Robot chicken......and anything you want, they have it. Another good element is the fanboy element. These guys look like they have watched way too many films, followed way too many TV Serials and read lots of comics. I love that in people. People like Edgar Wright, JJ Abram's and Simon Pegg, these guys took what they love, clearly understood the importance of it in there development and honoured it by paying homage in there work. It's what I respect about these guys and the show itself.
 

Red Dwarf

You might be seeing a lot of science fiction television shows in the first few weeks. Today's review is of one of my favourite comedies on British television. Starting in 1988 and continuing up to 2012, the show gained it's cult following based on it's character driven story lines, practical effects and the characters themselves. I discovered it recently, but I had seen snippets of it many times over the years. I had decided to catch up to see what all the fuss is about.

So whats the story; in the 25th century(in episode one) the crew of the earth mining ship red dwarf are all killed after a radiation leak, only one crew member, Lister, survives due to being in stasis and thus outlives the radiation. The only downside, its the year 3,000,000. All alone he only has for company the ships computer Holly, Cat, an evolved descendant of the cat that he was caught with and was placed in stasis for and Rimmer, his ex-roommate and former superior officer, revived as a hologram. They are later joined by an android named Kryton, an all work robot, who later begins developing his own opinions. Together they fly the red dwarf through the galaxy, hoping to find the earth. Along the way they run into various characters and creatures that attempt to destroy them. 

While the story itself may not appeal to the general viewing audience, the characters however do. The characters are so diverse and play hilariously off each other. Lister is the well meaning, often brave, often more clever than he lets on, slob. Cat is narcissistic, self-centered and extravagant, usually seen wearing the most over the top clothing that looks like it should be from the seventies. Rimmer is my favourite, who claims to be more intelligent, brave and capable than he actually is. Nothing goes right for him, in fact when it does go right, he is the first to say "Time for it to go wrong".  He too is egocentric, proud and dim like most of the characters. The highest rank he has is senior officer of fixing food preparation machines. He can be brave, but that is a rarity, much like his ability to think straight. Kryton develops from a tidy, yes man into a swearing, insulting and incapable people person. He can't even say Smeg Head, a fun swear that i try to use more of in my life. 

The coolest part of this show is the story. They go to parallel universes, a place where time is in reverse, historical celebrities fight each other and fight giant puppet monsters.(OK the effects aren't great, but it is way better than CGI). Is it as good as say star trek or doctor who, I say yes. The effects are a tad dated, but the characters are timeless, the jokes stellar. I tell you these jokes will keep you laughing for ages. Each one is different and each one mounts on the previous joke to get better and better each minute.

So that's Red Dwarf, watch out for it soon on Dave if you get the chance. What TV show should I review next that has a cult following. Please comment to let me know.

Firefly

Firefly, the famous cult TV show of the early 2000's. I had first heard this show on The Big Bang Theory, on how Sheldon had put the president of FOX on his list because he cancelled firefly and many other references. After finding it on Netflix I was hooked. Cancelled way too soon, after the fourteen episodes I was left craving more. I won't pretend I know all about this universe, so I'll give my honest opinion.

So what's the story; after a intergalactic civil war, with the resistance losing, the planets are organised into an orderly rule by the alliance. We follow the travels of the crew of the firefly class ship Serenity. Captained by Mal Reynolds, he and his crew, First-mate Zoe, Pilot Wash and mechanic Kaylee and other "passengers" including Shepard Book( A Priest or "preacher" in this world), hired-gun Jayne, Companion(It is what it sounds like) Inora and a doctor and his sister, Simon and River Tam travel the galaxy for any job that need hiring for. Jobs include Train robbing, smuggling and transport. The central, and usually addressed, story line is Simon and River escaping the Alliance due to River being tortured by the Academy. The rest is on the crew reacting and interacting to the inequality and diversity in the galaxy.(Don't worry if you don't know the whole story, they usually remind you at the beginning of each episode.)

In my choice of characters I usually find that my favourite and most interesting characters differ very much. My favourite character is Dr Simon Tam, MD. He is considered in the way, treated as a joke and is never treated seriously. With the exception of Book, he is not as well liked as a doctor could be. The only person who like him is Kaylee, but we'll get to her and that later, and even Mal more respects him for what he does for the crew rather than like him. But that is why I sympathize with him. More than a doctor he threw his life away to save his sister and will do what he can to protect her and make her better. That takes dedication and bravery. I dip my hat to you good sir. 

The most interesting character is also one of the best assholes ever. Mal, my god thank you for Mal he went from being the coldest prick on television to being one of the best hero's to grace the screen. His history of war, his calm demeanor, his vigilante activities and the fighting style is just flat out cowboy-brute force. Like most of the characters, he is very interesting and developed, displaying respect when needed and bravery when required. He ranks high on my top ten TV characters(which I will do soon) 

One of the aspects I love in this is the romantic tension between characters, like Inora and Mal possibly having tension between the two which is commonly put to the test as both tease and ultimately disregard the professions of each, while with Simon, Kaylee does not hold back in her attraction to him. At times he really doesn't notice that we just wish they would just get together.

If you find the series interesting enough to follow, then you might be interested enough to watch Serenity.

Television Month

Welcome to television month!

For the entire month of July, I will be reviewing my favorite TV shows as well as some of the best loved Cult TV shows around at this time and before. I will be doing more months in the future for example Beatles month(TBC) and Doctor Who months(November for the 50th anniversary, also more depth will be given the show than this month) and more to come when I think of them. Upcoming reviews after July will include American Psycho, Scott Pilgrim vs The World, Evil dead I &II (re-reviewed as the last review was a bit cluttered) and a script fix for Abraham Lincoln vampire hunter.

That is all for now please wait for updates to come twice weekly. In the future I will also have more months such as Doctor who month and Beatles month. Also I will review films like American Psycho and the Prince of Egypt.