We Can ‘Harley’ Believe That It’s Been 30 Years Since Ms Quinn’s Debut…

That’s right, it’s been three dynamic decades since the psychedelic psychopath of print was first unleashed onto an unsuspecting comic book universe, much to the chagrin of The Batman, but conversely to the delight of millions of comic book fans, for Harley truly is… one of the greatest comic-book characters ever conceived, and if you don’t agree, then her beloved mallet would like to have a word with you!

Former psychiatrist, Dr Harleen Quinzel was originally an Arkham Asylum intern who, after prolonged psychology sessions with crazed clown The Joker, was coerced into thinking that Batman was the ultimate cause of Joker’s insanely murderous high jinks. Slowly falling in love with the irascible psychotic, Harleen eventually aided the mirthful murderer to escape the asylum and joined him on his insane crusade to dispense madness, murder and mayhem on the populace of Gotham City.

Ms Quinn was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm and actually made her first ever appearance outside of the comic book format, on the critically acclaimed Batman: The Animated Series, in an episode titled “Joker’s Favour” which aired on the 11th September 1992.

Actress Arleen Sorkin was Paul Dini’s original inspiration for the clown princess of crime, after he caught her appearance in an episode of Days Of Our Lives, in which she appeared in a dream sequence wearing a Jester outfit. Dini and Sorkin had been friends since college, and he even incorporated certain facets of Arleen’s personality into the character (and, of course – Arleen/Harleen)

Though initially brought in as a throw away character, Harley proved so massively popular with the DC fanbase that she was ultimately ushered into DC Universe continuity in the 1994 graphic novel “Batman Adventures: Mad Love” which recounted her wild and wacky origin tale, written and drawn by her original co-creators Paul Dini and Bruce Timm.

Harley of course has, since that time, become a fantabulously fun force to be reckoned with both on and off the comic-book page, starring in both animated and live action movies, and is also without a shadow of a doubt, THE most most popular choice for depiction amongst cos-players across the globe. 

Harley and Ivy Discuss… erm, Beavers!

Enough Already! My Ribs are Beginning To Ache!!

And So, Happy 30th Anniversary To That Marvellously Maniacal Mistress Of Mayhem – Harley Quinn!

*Please Note: No beavers were hurt during the production of this post, just tossed, stuffed, kidnapped (beaver-napped?) and made fun of… so that’s alright then!*

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to another enthralling episode of  The Week In Geek  where we love to share our favourite Comic Book, Video-Game, and Cult Movie news for your perusal and pleasure. And so once more unto the geek, dear agents, once more…

DC Universe Release It’s First Pic Of Brec Bassinger As Geoff Johns’ Beloved Hero – Stargirl!

DC Universe is DC’s new live action/animated streaming service that recently regaled the comic giant’s loyal fans with such iconic delights as live action series’ of Titans and Doom Patrol, with Swamp Thing and a brand new animated series of Harley Quinn also on the heroic horizon.

But for this particular DC fanatic the upcoming Stargirl series is everything, and from this recently released photo of actress Brec Bassinger as Courtney Whitmore, better known as the Cosmic Staff wielding Superhero – Stargirl, everything is looking really rather respectful and resplendent! High school student Courtney, step-daughter of the the Star Spangled Kid, has been portrayed in live action form twice before in Smallville and Legends of Tomorrow respectfully, but costume wise this is without a doubt the closest version yet brought to screen.

Stargirl made her debut in Stars and S.T.R.I.P.E #0 in July 1999, created by comic book legend Geoff  Johns who styled the character’s appearance and name after his late sister Courtney, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1996. The series will premiere in early 2020.

First Trailer For Joaquin Phoenix  Joker Origin Movie Released By Warner Bros…

No Smilex Gas needed for this one, as Warner Brothers release a tantalising and intriguing look at Joaquin Phoenix’s take on the DC’s infamous clown prince of crime – The Joker.

Not to be confused with Jared Leto’s recent and entertaining variant of the jester of genocide, this is a standalone story that will delve into the trials and tribulations that ultimately turn what appears a seemingly ordinary individual into comic books most feared and revered sociopathic SuperVillain, in an origin story that is produced by celebrated film auteur Martin Scorsese and also stars Robert DeNiro and Zazie Beets… and it’s looking particularly phenomenal! Revel in the trailer below:

 

Rorschach’s Quote(s) Of The Week

*Warning: Doomsday Clock Spoilers Ahoy me hearties!*

“Rorschach’s Journal: November 15, 2017 – I appear to be back, or am I? after my obvious demise at the hands of Doc Manhattan how is this possible… who am I, where am I, and what has happened to my physicality? I appear to be someone… other, hmmm, a paradox!”

“Hrmm… I’m Back… Seemingly”

Hey, have you heard? Rorschach’s back! That’s right the viciously vehement vigilante with the ink blot mask, surly temper and loathing for the criminal fraternity has re-materialised on the physical plane after his apparent deadly demise at the hands of Doc Manhattan… or has he!? Well that’s a spoiler that I reverently refuse to reveal! What I am going to share with you though, fellow CrimeBusters, are some of the phenomenally perfect panels from Rorschach’s recent rendezvous with classic characters from the DC Universe… especially Batman, in fact, Batsy and ‘schach make for an almost peerless comic(al) duo…

Where Does He Get Those Wonderful Toys!?

Kitchen Utensils Are A Prerequisite For Rorschach, You Never Know When He Might Fancy The Odd Cold Tin Of Beans..

The Rorschach Equivalent Of – “Are We There Yet?”

It’s Not Like You Ever Eat Anything Anyway Though Bruce…

And this one may not have Rorschach in it (though he is just off panel) but it’s way too fantastic not to include…

DC’s Doomsday Clock series is a semi sequel to Alan Moore’s phenomenal and groundbreaking original 80’s masterpiece, and happily holds it’s head high in comparison to it’s almost unparalleled peer, highly recommended.

Rorschach, Batman, Doctor Manhattan, Joker and Doomsday Clock Are Trademark: DC Comics.

Jared’s Joker Revival…

Oh boy did we love Jared Leto’s take on the clown prince of crime in 2016’s Suicide Squad movie, it was a sublime rendering of DC’s most infamous SuperVillain. The only thing we didn’t appreciate was the fact that most of his filmed scenes did not actually appear in the finished movie, in fact he was originally cast as the big bad for the film, alongside Cara Delevingne’s Enchantress, but his role was so heavily cut, that he ended up as nothing more than a side character… Boo!

But it appears that Warner and DC have seen the error of their ways and are looking to redress the fact… by giving Jared another chance to don the green hair and maniacal grin of the jester of genocide, with Variety reporting that he is set to star and executive produce an as yet untitled standalone movie! YES!! 

This of course is also alongside his apparent reprisal of the master of mirth in the undated Birds of Prey movie, which currently has only cast Margot Robbie, returning as everyone’s favourite mischievous minx of mayhem – Harley Quinn.

We have written a number of times about how impressed we were with Leto’s take on DC’s titular villain, he has actually become our favourite live action version of the character ever (yes, yes, we still believe Mark Hamill’s animated variant is the greatest of all time, so please no angry comments!) Leto’s Joker was ripped straight from the comic-book source itself, an almost perfect rendition of the homicidal sociopath.

To put this statement in context, like sixties Joker actor, Cesar Romero, Leto captured the Joker’s essence both visually and narratively from the actual character in DC’s almost eight decade running Batman comics. Though we do really adore both Jack Nicholson and Heath Ledger’s take, they both gave us their own interpretation of what they perceived the Joker to be, as opposed to a specific comic book appearance.

Jared Leto’s Joker is ripped straight out of the comics themselves, predominantly from the 2014 Batman: Endgame by master scribe – Scott Snyder…

‘Batman: Endgame’ was a six issue long story arc released in 2014, written by Scott Snyder and pencilled by Greg Capullo. It features the return of Batman’s arch foe, who had not been seen in comics since the 2012  ‘Death of the Family’ storyline. Endgame was written in conjunction with Batman and the Joker’s 75th anniversary and explored the discordant bond the characters shared throughout their tumultuous history.

Leto’s Joker appears to be drawing heavily from Snyder’s storyline, again both visually and narratively. I also see a lot of similarity with Grant Morrison’s version of the Joker from the 2009 story arc ‘Batman: RIP’, again his visual look seems honed from Mr J’s appearance in this fantastic tale.

So, are you as excited as we are for Leto’s re-emergence as the Joker? sound off in the comments below, fellow fans of fantastic fiction…

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to another episode of  ‘The Week In Geek’ where we love to share our favourite – Comic Book, Video-Game and Cult movie news for your perusal and pleasure. And so once more unto the geek, dear agents, once more…

Don’t Fret Batfans, Ben Affleck Is The Batman…

Rumours do not make for great news, let’s be honest. I have to wonder how some of the larger geek websites (read: corporate… though corporate and geeky are two words that really shouldn’t go together!) ever made it to the top of the proverbial nerd pile when such rookie mistakes as reporting on an ill informed rumour as if it were fact happens, especially when, less than 24 hours later they have to retract said articles after finding out that… hey guess what… IT WAS A RUMOUR! Phew! 

The latest victim of inadequate fact awareness is Matt Reeves’ much anticipated upcoming adaptation of the masked manhunter – Batman. Several rumours surrounded the Dark Knight’s newest solo escapade this week, first and foremost that Batman v Superman star Ben Affleck had stepped away from the role as the Caped Crusader, and also that the movie itself was a standalone effort not tied into DC’s burgeoning shared cinematic universe, thankfully neither were true.

In response director Matt Reeves took to twitter to answer the rumour mill:

 

To clarify the point, Reeves’ Batman adaptation retains Ben Affleck as its lead, and will be part of the larger DC extended universe, but, it will primarily be a movie about Batman… no surprise there then considering IT’S A BATMAN MOVIE!! If dearly departed 60’s Bat actor Adam West was still with us he would definitely be reaching into his utility belt for his Anti-Rumour Bat Spray about now!

Raging Joker!? Legendary Director Martin Scorsese In Talks To Produce A Joker Origin Movie…

The Joker is quite possibly the most infamous comic villain of all time, and has seen many onscreen interpretations of his maniacal character over the decades, from Cesar Romero’s 60’s version through to the more recent Jared Leto rendering. Warner Bros are currently in talks with legendary film director Martin Scorsese (Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, The Departed) to produce an origin tale for the clown prince of crime… a highly unexpected but rather awesome piece of news indeed!

Because the film will delve back into The Joker’s past, a younger actor will be portraying the mirthful maniac, which obviously precludes Jared Leto from reprising his role. But fear not Leto-Joker fans (myself included here)  Jared has confirmed that he will be stepping out as the murderous maniacal maestro once again in a new movie that will centre on Mr J and his long suffering partner in madness Harley Quinn in what Warner Bros are calling a “Criminal Love Story”. I’m envisioning Oliver Stone’s “Natural Born Killers” with Woody Harrelson and Juliette Lewis’ roles recast as Harley and her puddin’… now that would be cool!

Titans Live Action Series Has Found Its Starfire…

We absolutely adore Starfire here in Precinct1313, which you probably already realise if you’re long time reader of the site. And when news hit that DC are in the process of creating a live action television series based upon the iconic team of teen superheroes, we were overjoyed at the idea of Koriand’r getting her first non animated debut on the small screen, and now it’s a definite reality as “24: Legacy” star Anna Diop has been cast in the role of the Tamaranean Princess.

First Wonder Woman And Now A Live Action Starfire!? Could Life Get Any Better…

The Titans series is being produced by sensational scribe Geoff Johns and TV writer/producer Greg Berlanti, and will debut on DC’s upcoming digital showcase channel. Anna will join already announced fellow cast member Teagan Croft, the Australian actress cast as the mystical Raven. Excitement overload in three… two…

Why not join us again next time friends for more Week In Geek

World’s Finest: An Exclusive Interview With Harley Quinn

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to yet another exhilarating episode of “World’s Finest” a series of exclusive interviews that aims to introduce to you some of our very favourite convocation of comic-book characters of… all… time!

Each episode we cordially invite one of out most treasured – Superheroes, SuperVillains, Costumed Crimefighters, Dimension Dwelling Demons, and of course … Super Pets (Bernie, Harley’s pet beaver was originally invited onto the show also, but I just could not stop giggling every time Harley talked about how much she loved to show people her Beaver… and almost had a laughter induced heart attack when she offered to let me stroke her Beaver, so I rescinded Bernie’s invitation… sorry little dude!)

Every episode our very special guests will be answering a quotient of quintessentially quirky questions about life, the universe and cake (’cause everyone loves cake.)

And so, let us welcome to Precinct1313’s sanguinely sacred sofa of schlockingly sordid satire, the hellaciously hazardous hellcat of hijinks – Harley Quinn!

Precinct1313: Uh, Hi there Harley and welcome to, erm, uh… this week’s episode of World’s Finest… 

Harley Quinn: Thanks so much, I’m pleased to meetcha, uh, are you OK?

Precinct1313: What’s that, oh.. er yes I’m fine, uuum, you did come alone right?

Harley Quinn: Why of course, I left Bernie back at home as you asked.

Precinct1313: I wasn’t actually thinking about Bernie, but, you know, that other person you’re famed for knowing.

Harley Quinn: Oh you mean the Joker, my ex-puddin’, nah, I don’t tend to see much of him these days.

Precinct1313: Phew!… I mean, erm, it’s not that he’s not welcome or anything. If you’re viewing this Mr Joker… Sir, you are of course always, um, welcome here in the Precinct, though I’ve just been informed by my producers that the Precinct will be closed undergoing repairs for a couple of, centuries… so, um, sometime after that is fine… *Oh god, please don’t kill me Joker*

Harley Quinn: Jeepers, calm down would ya, hey are you cryin’!?

Precinct1313: Absolutely not… sniff! 

Precinct1313: So, Harley, let me begin by congratulating you on your 25th anniversary since creation.

Harley Quinn: Gee, thanks so much, it’s hard to believe it’s been that long since I first hooked up with Mr J, innit!?

Precinct1313: Yes it is, and you’ve gone from strength to strength since then, in fact you have become one of the most beloved characters in comics, ever. To what do you attribute your meteoric rise?

Harley Quinn: I always find that threatening people with sharp implements or a giant mallet usually makes them see things my way.

Precinct1313: Uuuuh, that’s not exactly the answer I was expecting, but OK.

Precinct1313: Allow me to mention how much I enjoyed your role in the recent Suicide Squad movie, how did it feel stepping out of the comic book pages and onto the big screen?

Harley Quinn: Ooh it was great, I can’t believe how spacious it is in the real world, those comic book panels are so cramped, I mean I almost felt like a different person altogether!

Precinct1313: Well technically you were…

Harley Quinn: Watcha talkin’ about ya mook?

Precinct1313: Well, um, Margot Robbie portrayed you in the movie itself… right?

Harley Quinn: Never heard of the broad, there is only one Harley Quinn, and that’s l’il ol’ me… you are spoutin’ some real crazy talk, and they call me insane… where’s my giant mallet!?

Precinct1313: Gulp! uh, I was just kidding of course, no need for senseless violence…

Harley Quinn: But that’s sort of my shtick… the whole senseless violence thing.

Precinct1313: Which, let’s be honest, is an unusual trait for someone who once was a psychiatrist. Which brings me to, what was it that attracted you to a green haired psychopathic mass murderer in the first place?

Harley Quinn: I found the Joker’s psyche disturbing, his dementia alarming, and his charm irresistible, what can I tell ya? the guy just did it for me!

Precinct1313: And the Batman?

Harley Quinn: Whatta ’bout him?

Precinct1313: Any thoughts?

Harley Quinn: I’d just like to say, if there were no Batman, there’d be no Joker and I woulda never met my puddin’, so thank you Batman! That said, if he shows his pointy ears around me again, I’ll wipe that grimacing scowl off his face with my beloved mallet!

Precinct1313: Yikes! and on that note, I would just like to say thank you for joining us on World’s Finest… oh and for not brutally bludgeoning me to within an inch of my life!

Harley Quinn: Actually, I’m still undecided on that!

Precinct1313: Eeeep!!!

Precinct1313’s End Of The Year Geekstravaganza…

2016, oh how we lament thee… ’tis been a rollercoaster of a year it has to be said, the world outside of the Precinct’s impenetrably darkened walls has seen many moments of both grief and utterly incredulous disbelief (as an example of this, being a Brit, I am still astonished that the larger populace of my home actually voted for Brexit!?) Some well loved and talented individuals passed away, and the political climate across the globe has shifted in a rather uncomfortable direction. Now more than ever we really need our alternate realities to hide in, be that comic books, movies or video-games and for this at least, 2016 was a great year.

2016, for me, was the year that I had been waiting for since I was six years old… as my beloved DC Superheroes finally burst forth from their comic book shackles, and onto the silver screen. Sure we’ve had plenty of movies throughout the decades that have brought us DC’s big two… Batman and Superman, and quite a few of them have been amazing, but the scale that DC have thrown their much loved characters onto the big screen this year has been literally stratospheric. 

These Were Our Favourite Moments From 2016:

Bats and Supes Had A Disagreement…

Batsy and Supes Threw Down At The Beginning Of 2016… And It Was Epic!!

The Year began with a disagreement between The Dark Knight and The Man Of Steel. In March the world’s two biggest Superheroes clashed head on in Warner Bros and Zack Snyder’s epic ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’ and it was awe inspiring. Forget what the critics said, the film is a deep and psychological look at how the world would react to Super-humans amongst them, but for all it’s depth, it was also an outstandingly awesome action movie with stand-out turns from Ben Affleck as Batman, and the unforgettable big screen debut of the Themysciran Titan – Wonder Woman, a role actress Gal Gadot seemed born to play.

Suicide Squad Broke Their Bonds…

“Smile For The Camera Mr J…”

In August Task Force X escaped from their well deserved incarceration in Belle Reve penitentiary to inflict all kinds of mayhem and mirth at the cinemas in David Ayer’s spectacularly fun take on DC’s ‘Suicide Squad’. John Ostrander’s classic comic book series about a group of Supervillains and disgraced Superheroes who are recruited by the Government for fully deniable black ops tasks in return for clemency was masterfully translated to the big screen by Ayer. With an eclectic cast of characters, an overtly powerful and enigmatic antagonist, and great performances from Jared Leto, Margot Robbie and Will Smith, this is an exemplary exercise in bringing a comic book series to vivid life (and Batman’s in it… and you can never have too much Batman!)

The Phantom Turned 80…

2016 marked the astonishing 80th anniversary of Lee Falk’s genre defining Superhero ‘The Phantom’, it was The Ghost Who Walks who first donned a mask and colourful costume to fight an eternal and ceaseless battle against corruption and injustice with only his quick wits, martial skills and faithful companions; Devil his pet wolf and Ghost his trusty white steed. The Phenomenal Phantom was the progenitor of what later became a deluge of Superheroes and preceded peers Batman and Superman by a full two years.

Wondy Celebrated Her Anniversary…

Oh How Time Flies, One Minute You’re Basking In the Golden Hues Of The Sun On The Resplendent Beaches Of Themyscira, Surrounded By Your Amazon Sisters, Then A Mere 75 Years Later You’ve Become A Superhero, Ambassador, Herald, God Of War, Feminist Paradigm, And Indomitable Icon To The Masses!

It’s been an awesome 75 years since Diana of Themyscira first burst onto the scene, wielding her golden lasso of truth and inspiring female empowerment and emancipation, Wonder Woman has proven to be the most important fictional female ever wrought. 2016 not only marked her 75th anniversary but also her big screen debut in Batman v Superman, and she was a huge highlight of that exceptional movie, and with her own solo movie set to appear at cinemas in mid 2017, there appears to be nothing stopping our immortal idol from ruling the roost for another seventy five… 

The DC Universe Was Reborn…

May 2016 marked a humongous relaunch of DC Comics’ entire line of monthly comic books aptly named ‘Rebirth’. It was primarily intended to return the DC Universe to a time prior to ‘Flashpoint’, a time paradox storyline that altered DC’s timeline and led into the 2011 ‘New 52’ reboot. The reboot itself was divisive amongst fans and some creators alike, and though initial sales were strong, the titles began to lapse in sales as fans yearned for their favourite heroes previous incarnations pre-52.

Wonder Woman Rebirth Has Been Astonishing, With Sublime Visuals Courtesy Of Liam Sharp And Nicola Scott

Rather than a reboot though, Rebirth was more of a soft relaunch retaining much of the history and happenings of the New 52 continuity, but returning characters back to their more popular personas prior to the paradox. And it’s been a hit! Rebirth has proven so popular that DC Comics for the first time in many a year has been soundly thrashing it’s closest rival Marvel in sales month in and out. Detective Comics, Wonder Woman, and Red Hood and the Outlaws have been stand out the best of these for this particular DC fanboy, but all titles have been fantastically written and engrossing, with both superstar veteran creators and upcoming stars scrabbling to join the DC Rebirth fold.

Our Top Picks For DC’s Rebirth, Though Whichever Title You Choose You’re In For An Absorbing And Wicked Ride With Fantastic Art And Engrossing Storylines, Replete With Classic DC Characters… It’s A Win Win!

Happy New Year To All Our Followers, Special Agents, Readers And Everyone Else, 2017 Is Set To Be Even Bigger For DC With The Highly Anticipated Wonder Woman And Justice League Movies, Not To Mention Yet More Marvellous Comics From The Rebirth Line, Kicking Off With Batwoman Rebirth In March, Until Then… Make Mine DC!

Suicide Squad: The Review

Misfits and malcontents, killers and crazies, this uniquely sums up the members of Task Force X, the Government funded black ops team of incarcerated Supervillains given a chance for clemency if they agree to take on secret missions so dangerous, that they are essentially deemed suicidal.

Cast: Will Smith, Jared Leto, Margot Robbie, Viola Davis, Joel Kinnaman, Cara Delevingne, Karen Fukuhara, Jay Hernandez, Jai Courtney, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje. Written and Directed by: David Ayer.

Award winning director David Ayer presents us with, very possibly, the most fun and over the top comic-book movie of all time. Suicide Squad quite literally is a blast, from zany start to action packed finish, at times it’s like a live action Warner Bros cartoon, and it’s all the better for it. Ayer expertly shows everyone how to adapt a well loved, violently recalcitrant and anti-authoritarian comic book onto the big screen and make it an exquisitely enjoyable experience.

The one thing that makes this cinematic excursion unique amongst its peers, is the virtual lack of actual Superheroes, unlike it’s filmic kin, Suicide Squad follows the path of the bad guys, the worst of the worst. That’s not to say that the movie completely lacks the capes and cowls of previous comic-book adaptations, both Batman and The Flash make very brief appearances, but are used primarily as a plot device to introduce us to the real stars of the show… the Supervillains.

Let’s get straight to the most important part of the movie, the miscreants themselves, and with this in mind the most divisive, but one of the most impressive performances is Jared Leto’s take on the The Clown Prince of Crime. Jared’s Joker is an unpredictable and dangerous sociopath, in context to Heath Ledger’s (equally impressive) take, Leto’s rendering feels a lot more deranged and murderous, much more akin to the comic-book original. And though his time in the movie is short, he shines brightly with homicidal intent.

Demented, Deranged And Downright Dangerous, Jared Leto Kills It As The Joker

The rest of the cast consists of seasoned actors and relative newcomers to the fine art of the thespian, chief amongst these is Will Smith’s rendition of the world’s greatest assassin (and Batman foe) Deadshot. His performance is both heavily dramatic, but also highly comedic, a blend that only someone of Smith’s consummate acting skill could pull off, he nails the character perfectly and is without a doubt a huge highlight of the film.

Margot Robbie as the irascible and psychotic Harley Quinn is a joy to behold, capturing the absolute crazy essence of the character and injecting a small amount of pathos in for good measure, when she and her ‘Puddin’ The Joker share the screen together the atmosphere is absolutely electric.

Deadshot (Will Smith) and Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) Are Massive Highlights Of The Movie

And backing up this terrific trio are an eclectic and entertaining group of characters, with Viola Davis’ turn as Amanda ‘The Wall’ Waller being a particular stand-out. Like her comic-book counterpart, Task Force x‘s creator Waller, is a no nonsense, hard edged and duplicitous persona and is fundamentally more amoral, than any member of her Suicide Squad.

Jay Hernandez must also be complimented for his turn as El Diablo, Suicide Squad’s second most powerful member (after Cara Delevingne’s Enchantress) who harbours a dark and tragic secret so painful, that he refuses to use his powers to hurt anyone. 

“Flame Off!” El Diablo (Jay Hernandez) Refuses To Ever Use His Powers To Harm Anyone Again, Much To The Exasperation Of His Task Force X Comrades

And lest we forget, Jai Courtney as Captain Boomerang who elicits more than a few laughs as the Squad’s resident antipodean Supervillain. Karen Fukuhara as Katana, hired by Waller to keep the Squad members in line (and ultimately end them, should they leave said line) Cara Delevingne as The Enchantress, an ancient and insanely powerful Witch who possesses the body of June Moone, the girlfriend of the Suicide Squad’s appointed leader Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman) and not forgetting man-beast and constant thorn in the Dark Knight’s side, Killer Croc, ferociously played by Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje.

David Ayer’s Suicide Squad ably captures the look and feel of the original comic-book series, in fact original Squad creator, the legendary John Ostrander hails it as an accurate and masterful recreation of his source material, and that is high praise indeed. For all the mixed reviews it has so far received, once again fans and movie lovers have ignored the critics and have turned out in their droves to support the film. It is currently the biggest movie on the planet, and box office takings have been huge easily surpassing other recent comic-book adaptations including Captain America: Civil War and Guardians of the Galaxy.

Fun, silly, over the top, and reverential to it’s source… Suicide Squad is a must watch!

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to another episode of ‘The Week In Geek’ where we share our favourite comic book, video-game, and cult movie news for your perusal and pleasure.

‘No Capes Darling!’… Behind The Scenes Shots Of Gal’s Wonder Cloak…

Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Justice was awesome, and even more awesome was the big screen debut of the amazing Amazon in said movie. Gal Gadot’s outstanding performance just oozed a regal sense of beauty, honour and strength, she was in fact not just the Wonder Woman we needed, but also the one we deserved! Her film costume honoured her comic book roots, but also added a splash of originality all of its own, the one thing we didn’t see her wearing in the movie though was her cloak. These pictures of the Themysciran Titan replete with mantle were released recently thanks to the special features section of the digital download ultimate cut of Bats v Supes, with the avian-esque look of the cloak showing deference to the iconic Amazon Herald eagle motif.

New International Suicide Squad Posters Revealed…

Oooooh, not long now my fellow fans of fantastic fiction, Suicide Squad is only just over a month away from cinematic release. David Ayer’s take on DC Comics’ group of Super-Villain badasses is looking all kinds of crazy in the best possible way… oh and Jared Leto’s Joker… nuff said! Until then though, why not feast your eyes on these new international posters.

Gal Gadot Honours Lynda Carter With Her Very Own Wondy Spin…

Lynda Carter in the seventies and early Eighties ‘WAS’ Wonder Woman… the iconic music, camp nature, oh and, of course, the classic spin transformation…

In a fun little behind the scenes clip, Gal Gadot recently gave everyone exactly what they had been waiting for… her own take on it. And it is ridiculously awesome and strangely mesmerising (in fact I can’t stop watching it!)

And now, neither can you!

Why not join us again next time friends, for more Week In Geek.

Task Force X Resurface…

And the excitement continues fellow DC Comics fanatics, hot on the heels of the fantastic Batman v Superman: Dawn Of Awesome, comes a brand new trailer for everyone’s favourite team of malicious Malcontents – Suicide Squad. After the magnificent trailer that was released just a few short weeks ago, this particular fan has been chomping at the bit for more footage of not just the Squad themselves, but especially Jared Leto as the Clown Prince Of Crime, and the trailer does not disappoint, lots of Leto, lots of Harley Quinn and as an added bonus, lots of Batman! That’s right Batfans,  it has been confirmed that Ben Affleck‘s superior take on the Caped Crusader will have a considerably larger role in the film than previously thought.

The film itself, which is part of the DC extended universe of movies, takes place just after the events of Batman v Superman and the circumstances spiralling out of that storyline will shake the foundations of the Squad’s own cinematic extravaganza. Sit back, click play, and be transported once again into the wild and wonderful world of Supervillainry and green haired homicidal maniacs, what more could you want from life!?. Enjoy…

Batman: The Killing Joke – Teaser Trailer Released

DC Comics have released a teaser trailer for their upcoming animated version of Alan Moore’s classic one shot graphic novel masterpiece.

The Killing Joke was written by Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland and John Higgins in 1988, providing an origin story and psychological motivation for the creation of the Clown Prince Of Crime. It is defined by fans and critics alike as probably the greatest Joker story ever penned and was the recipient of many awards for its conceptual depth and spectacular artwork. The plot revolves around the Joker’s attempt to drive Gotham City’s Police Commissioner Jim Gordon insane, with frequent flashbacks to Joker’s former life before his psychotic break at the hands of the Batman. The tale Explores Jokers assertion that deep down inside all of us there is a psychotic, insidiously waiting to break free from the shackles of sanity.

The animated film will once again bring together the Dynamic Duo of Kevin Conroy (as Batman) and Mark Hamill (as the Joker) Watch the exclusive teaser below Batfans…

 

The Week In Geek… With Precinct1313

Welcome fellow agents of Precinct1313 to “The Week In Geek,” where we list our favourite comic book, video-game and cult movie news for your perusal and pleasure.

Suicide Squad – Second Trailer Is Mind-Blowingly Amazing…

Sometimes it’s good to be bad!

So who amongst us have seen the astonishing new Suicide Squad movie trailer and not been blown away by its majestically manic and mirthful brilliance. David Ayer’s adaptation of DC Comics’ team of Supervillain badasses is looking utterly fantastic, and its dark tone and gritty violence are countered masterfully by an effervescent and mischievous sense of humour that just oozes from the trailer. This is movie marketing done right, I for one cannot wait for the (too far away) August 2016 release, and (shock/horror!) after watching the trailer for what must be the 100th time, I am almost more excited to see this than the upcoming “Batman v Superman” movie (almost.)

Oh, and Jared Leto’s Joker… will be the definitive version… calling it now.

One Joker to rule them all…

 

Amber Heard To Be Crowned “Queen of Atlantis”…

Amber Heard will make a huge splash as the Atlantis sovereign.

Though unconfirmed by Warner Bros, it seems that actress Amber Heard is in talks to take on the role of Mera, Aquaman’s love interest and eventual Queen of Atlantis. Amber will star opposite Jason Momoa’s Aquaman in the James Wan directed debut of one of DC’s biggest Superheroes. This is yet more sublime casting on behalf of Warner Bros, following hot on the heels of Danish actress Connie Nielsen being cast as Queen Hippolyta in the 2017 Wonder Woman movie. Amber’s Aphrodite like beauty mixed with real acting chops make her the perfect choice for the legendary Atlantis monarch. 

 

Resident Evil Zero – Remastered…

“We may not be ‘masters of unlocking,’ but we certainly are masters of looking cool whilst posing!”

Following on from last year’s HD remaster of the original Resident Evil, comes the bygone Gamecube classic Resident Evil 0, now in glorious high definition. The “Resi” prequel was the last of the hardcore survival horror entries before Resident Evil 4 brought on a significant change in the much loved series. This version retained the complex puzzles, resource management and fixed camera angles of its forebears that were slowly eroded by the newer games in the franchise (ultimately culminating in the awfulness that is Resident Evil 6!)

Resident Evil 0 is set one day before the famous Arklay mansion incident, as we tag alongside S.T.A.R.S team medic Rebecca Chambers and fugitive Billy Coen as they explore a (zombie infested) runaway train, creepy mansion and an abandoned Umbrella Corporation training facility. An awesome conversion of an absolutely classic game, well worth investing your time and money in.

Why not join us again next time friends, for more “Week In Geek.”

Suicide Squad Film Posters Unshackled

Warner Bros/DC Comics – 2016

Warner Bros have unleashed a spectacular set of film posters for their upcoming Suicide Squad movie. The unique and stylish posters show each of the individual Villains as skulls with a distinctive visual flair that represents the character it’s based upon (Joker’s manic grin and green hair, Deadshot’s cybernetic eye-scope… )

Extreme situations sometimes call for extreme action, which is where the Suicide Squad (aka – Task Force X) come in. The group of Supervillains and Metahumans who reside in the Government controlled penitentiary of Belle Reve, are tasked with taking on situations deemed too risky for normal operatives. Flying under the radar and with full deniability from the Government, these powerful yet unstable individuals must face the worst the world has to offer, with each member considered an expendable asset… sometimes evil can only be bested by something even more so…

Look out for the highly anticipated second trailer releasing on Tuesday 19 January as part of the CW channel’s 30 minute special titled – “DC Films presents: Dawn of the Justice League” right after the mid-season premiere of the second series of The Flash.

Comic Cover Of The Week: Batman Europa #3

Copyright: DC Comics

Salutations my comic collecting cohorts and welcome to another instalment of “Comic Cover Of The Week,” and this episode our spotlight of excellence falls upon “Batman: Europa #3.” Written by: Brian Azzarello and Matt Casali. Cover and interior art by: Diego Latorre. Variant cover by: Francesco Mattina and Diego Latorre.

‘Batman, weakened by a deadly virus, arrives in Paris to find answers. But with the Joker alongside for the journey, The Dark Knight is guaranteed to face many terrifying challenges as they together follow a trail that ultimately leads to a common enemy.’

Variant cover by Francesco Mattina

The Caped Crusader and Clown Prince of Crime crash the city of Paris in the penultimate issue of the mini-series. With Batman crippled by an enemy even he cannot defeat, a deadly virus to which there seems to be no known cure, he finds that he has to team up with his nemesis The Joker, who seems to be his only hope for salvation. Together the bitter enemies search Europe, desperate to find the answers before the debilitating disease enacts its final denouement. Another fine issue from superstar writer Brian Azzarello, with gorgeous painterly style artwork by Diego Latorre.

Batman: Europa #3 is available at your local comic book emporium right now.

Precinct1313’s End Of The Year Geekstravaganza!

The space year of 2015 comes to a close, fellow agents of Precinct1313, and with its inevitable demise comes our 13 favourite moments from across the comic-book, movie and videogame spectrum.

No.13: The Dark Knight Returns!

‘Dark and brooding’… but enough about me, let’s talk Batman!

After a 14 year hiatus, veteran comic book creator Frank Miller returned to his genre bending masterpiece Dark Knight saga with a third instalment, titled DKIII: The Master Race. This final (maybe) chapter takes place chronologically three years after 2001 mini-series “The Dark Knight Strikes Again,”  and continues to chronicle an ageing Caped Crusader and his allies in an increasingly violent and turbulent Gotham.

Thematically this series picks up from the ‘Strikes Again’, but this time Miller has brought along some fellow superstar creators for the intense and dark ride, as he is joined by, writer Brian Azzarello and artists, Andy Kubert, Jim Lee, and original collaborator Klaus Janson. Like its previous instalments, DKIII concentrates on the Batman as a symbol, an almost mythological character of inspiration and a catalyst for the weak and oppressed of Gotham.

No.12: Resident Evil Games Are… Good Again!!

“It’s not the zombies that scare me Claire, it’s the idea of playing through Resident Evil 6 again!”

2015 is the year that survival-horror veteran Resident Evil became great once more, as Capcom released not one, but two terrifyingly awesome instalments in the long running zombie franchise. After the awfulness of Resident Evil 6, even die-hard fans weren’t necessarily looking forward to whatever would come next in the once predominant horror gaming series. The sixth game in the franchise took a downward spiral into bland third person action/shooter territory, leaving behind most of what made the earlier games so much fun to play, namely the tension, spookiness and survival aspects.

Then in early 2015, an HD remake of the original game digitally graced home consoles, with the same intense and creepy vibe of the original, but with much improved visuals, soundtrack and most definitely improved in the acting department (though Jill still, humorously remained – “The Master Of Unlocking” .) And less than a month later Resident Evil Revelations 2 was released episodically across all formats, initially digitally only, though later on disc. This 4 part series was a hark back to classic Resi , tense and horrific with much more limited supplies and the difficulty switched up a notch from the mediocrity that was Resi 6. Capcom redeemed themselves in my eyes after the Resi 6 debacle, and I look forward to their next game with bated breath, the much touted remake of most fans favourite in the series, Resident Evil 2… can’t wait.

No.11: Starfire Goes Solo…

“My own series you say, by Conner and Palmiotti you say? I think I feel a little faint”

Everyone’s favourite flame haired, orange skinned alien princess finally flies solo in her own, rather marvellous, monthly series. Tamaranean native Koriand’r most recently starred alongside one time Robin, Jason Todd now known as violent masked vigilante The Red Hood, and former Green Arrow sidekick Roy Harper, aka Arsenal, in the highly recommended series “Red Hood and the Outlaws.” With the shake-up of DC recently with “DC You” Koriand’r was finally deemed a character strong enough to hold her own monthly series, and the creative reins were handed to the married, dynamic duo of Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti, to great effect.

The series has been a joy to read so far, we are huge fans of Starfire here in the Precinct and could think of no better team than Conner and Palmiotti to be given control of the series, but what has really drawn us into the series the most are the sublime visuals rendered by Emanuela Lupacchino, each panel is a masterpiece and the book is worth reading for just this alone. This has been standout my favourite comic series so far in 2015, and I’ll just say it’s been a great year of comics, which makes Kori’s solo debut even more impressive.

No.10: Jared Leto Cast As The Joker…

Well dye my hair green, bleach my skin and call me “puddin” if this isn’t just a superlative casting choice, Jared Leto as the Clown Prince Of Crime!?… oh hell yes! The term “Method Actor” could of been created for Mr Leto, as he is one of the most dedicated character actors you could ever come across, his casting in the upcoming Suicide Squad movie as the Joker, has me very excited indeed.

No.09: Mad Max – Fury Road…

Now then, I know that this is going to appear on a lot of end of the year lists, but if you had told me a year ago it would be on mine, I’d have thought you were the mad one himself! You see, as much as I like the director George Miller, and the acting duo of Tom Hardy and Charlize Theron, not to mention, I adore the original Mad Max trilogy, what I don’t like are lazy remakes of classic films from my youth, and for a long time that’s what I thought this was, I was sooooo wrong.

The film is a marvel to behold, an almost perfect blend of real time practical effects, mixed with limited but extremely well implemented CGI. Tom Hardy gives a good performance as the antipodean crazy ex-cop, Charlize Theron is fantastic as Furiosa, but it really is the crazy action and fantastic directing style of George Miller that are the stars here. Shiny and Chrome indeed!

No.08: New X-Files Series Begins Filming…

I love the X-Files, I have been a super fan since it first began way back in 1993, my interest in the unknown and supernatural initially drew me into the show but it was the performances by the leads, David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson and the increasingly emotional and complex relationship of their characters – Mulder and Scully that kept me coming back to the show time and time again.

Of course the writing was top notch, the episodes were always extremely well made and directed, but ultimately it was that relationship between the main players that drove the series to the cult and beyond status that it now has. Let’s hope the magic is still there over 13 years later, when the much anticipated tenth season finally appears in January 2016.

No.07: Supergirl Soars Once More…

Kara Zor-El is awesome, one of the most iconic female Superheroes of all time, Superman‘s cousin has been with us now since her initial introduction in 1959, created by Otto Binder and Al Plastino. Originally hailing from Argo city, a fragment of the planet Krypton that had managed to survive destruction.

She is one of the few female comic book characters who has appeared on the big and small screen several times in the past few decades (only Catwoman has had more live action appearances.) Played by Helen Slater in the 1984 movie, by actress Laura Vandervoort in TV series Smallville (strangely enough, Laura was born the same year the original movie was released) And now as of 2015, we have a new girl of steel, Melissa Benoist has taken up the cape and red boots of the seminal character in what has become a fantastic and fun interpretation, another quality Superhero show that stands tall amongst its peers.

No.06: Margot Robbie Brings Harley Quinn To Life…

Mistress of Mayhem, Harley Quinn is one of those characters that everyone loves, but have always believed would be almost impossible to bring to live action successfully. There have been attempts, the short lived Birds Of Prey series had a version of the character played by Mia Sara, who, while okay in the role, didn’t really capture Harley’s perfect blend of crazy cool and sociopathic tendency. 

Then we got a glimpse at actress Margot Robbie in the Suicide Squad trailers, everything about her portrayal seems to scream Harley, she looks perfect and I have high hopes for the character, she is definitely the most anticipated of all the Suicide Squad members so her portrayal will be of paramount importance to the film itself (along with her ‘puddin’, the Joker of course.)

No.05: Twin Peaks Season 3 Announced…

The coffee is great, let’s hope season 3 is also…

I’ll admit, I am both elated and worried at the idea of Twin Peaks returning for a third series, I love Twin Peaks, it is without a shadow of a doubt my favourite TV show of all time, but the perfection of the originals will be very hard to recapture I believe. Though this is David Lynch we’re talking about, a ‘mad genius’ of a director and film maker and I have adored virtually everything he has ever put out, so there is hope. Please be good… please!!

No.04: Convergence Was… Awesome!

DC Comics are the master of the epic crossover series, their “Crisis” stories have always been bombastic reads of monumental proportions. The more recent Blackest Night maxi-series was also phenomenal, but for me, it was this year’s “Convergence” that really blew my veritable bat-socks off!

Convergence was a limited series that released weekly and ran between April and May. The story span out of two earlier mini-series – “New 52 – Futures End” and “Earth 2 – World’s End.” The storyline follows Braniac as he gathers Cities and their inhabitants from across different timelines and alternate Earths.  Really there aren’t enough superlatives to sum up this fantastic mini-series, all I’ll say is buy it, read it, thank me later…

No.03: Suicide Squad Trailer…

DC Comics‘ ultimate team of anti-hero badasses finally achieve cinematic glory in 2016, courtesy of David Ayer (director of Sabotage and Fury) in what looks to be a gritty, violent adaptation of the comic book classic. Where this movie differs from all other Superhero films of recent years is the fact that it offers up a different perspective on the comic book adaptation, it focuses solely on the bad guys, the Supervillains and the crazies.

Director David Ayer is well known for his dark and gritty cop thrillers, and is the perfect choice for this live action version of the popular comic series. Peruse the trailer below and bask in the glory of seminal DC characters that include – Harley Quinn, Katana, Enchantress and Deadshot, and lest we forget, what may turn out to be the biggest draw of the film… Jared Leto’s Joker.

No.02: Wonder Woman Solo Movie Begins Production…

It may of come to your attention that we quite like Wonder Woman here in the Precinct, so we are rather excited that her long awaited silver screen appearance has finally begun production, and in the UK no less. Gal Gadot will make her first appearance as the amazing Amazon in March 2016 “Batman v Superman” movie before her 2017 solo film. Seriously it is about bloody time that the most iconic female comic book character of all time got her own movie, and with director Patty Jenkins at the helm and actress Gal looking every bit the Amazon Princess, I for one, cannot wait.

No.01: Batman v Superman Trailers Finally Released…

Well this is it, with the trailers finally released, and the epic nature revealed, you just have to prepare yourself for two things. 1. What could be, quite possibly, The Greatest Superhero Movie Of All Time and… 2. The cinematic debut of the original, and still greatest female Superhero. With these two imperatives in mind watch the trailer below, and then weep for the fact that the biggest cinematic event in DC Comics… nay, in history, is still three months away…

Happy New Year everyone…