FAREWELL, PAMELA GIDLEY...

You were a most fetching lady who made a most fetching android in the cult classic, “Cherry 2000”.

You were equally enchanting in “Twin Peaks: Fire Come Walk With Me”; “Highway to Hell”; “The Little Vampire”; and admirably resourceful in the creepy “Aberration”. Your television work was also most impressive, with “Disturbed”; “The Pretender”; and “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” leading the pack.

Thank you for all your splendid work, Ms. Gidley. I regret that I never had the chance to meet you, but do hope someday that our paths will cross where the angels roam. 

I saw Infinity War (Part 1)...

They say that "Marvel's Avengers: Infinity War: Part 1" is the biggest, character team-up in cinema history. I've no cause to dispute that claim.

Within its nearly three-hour running time, "Infinity War" gives us Captain America (Chris Evans); Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr); Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman); Black Widow (Scarlett Johannson); War Machine (Don Cheadle); the Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan); the Falcon (Anthony Mackie); Hulk (Mark Ruffalo); Thor (Chris Hemsworth); Loki (Tom Hiddleston); Spider-man (Tom Holland); Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen); the Vision (Paul Bettany); Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch); and crossing their imposing paths, those glorious Guardians of the Galaxy (Chris Pratt; Zoe Salanda; Dave Baustista; Karen Gillan; Pom Klementieff; Vin Diesel; and Bradley Cooper). There are also several suprise titans who accompany the headliners. (In fact, one will find a few costarring favorites straight out Marvel's previous blockbuster, "The Black Panther". How's that for respectful continuity?)

Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo (who performed a pitch-perfect job on my favorite entry, "Winter Soldier", as well as the contentious but colorful "Civil War"), and written by acclaimed Cap veterans Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus, the action swings among Earth, space and connecting dimensions. It's no wonder with the pensive, intergalactic villain (and Eternal daddy to Gamora and Nebula), Thanos (Josh Brolin) manipulating the variables to seize the mystical infinity stones: six lovely chunks that house the universe's limitless essence. Thanos hopes to adorn them upon his enormous glove, though even an incomplete set gives the galactic thug significant leverage over the assembled Avengers. But by golly, our heroes still do their best to bring him down, along with his ruthless regiment of Black Order/Cull Obsidian generals. 

"Infinity War" plays, in this respect, like other Marvel movies, with lots of good fighting lots of bad. However, with the Avengers entering the mission more-or-less divided, they must put aside personal concerns to combat their common foe, albeit in specialized packs. The script, therefore, insinuates "X-Men United", though places the concept on a more sprawling scale. (I'm glad, by the way, that Team Rogers and Team Stark are at long last mending their ways. The "Civil War" rift never felt right to me, whether in comic or film form. In my opinion, animosity between/among friends, especially of the exalted, fictional sort, should be resolved within one story line, but I'm okay seeing it settled in two or three, as long as it happens somewhere down the damn, reachable line.)

Even with its unorthodox tensions referenced and stacked throughout, the film doesn't flip the franchise (the most financially successful of all time, I might add) on its head, unless one sees blasphemy in Cap's brooding beard, Widow's amber hair, or Spidey's shiny suit. (For the record, we gained a glimpse of Parker's new costume in "Homecoming", so it's use in an Avengers rally shouldn't be all that surprising.) 

But wait--what's that you ask? Is there truth to the rumor that an Avenger dies? Maybe even more than one beloved character? Well, if that's truly the case, it sure would be big, saga-changing news, but I'm not one to kiss and tell for the here and now. (You know how to reach me if you desire a confirmation.)  I'll say this much: The demise of any Marvel icon would be troubling, perhaps unforgivable, but maybe one could justify it within a well wrought plot. Keeping it more "Wrath of Khan" than "Force Awakens" would be the way to go, but with Disney and Paramount both involved, the woeful moment(s) could go either way...if such were to occur. (And if death were to strike, would any Avenger ever stay forever defunct? Come on, now... Why mourn? Why lament? Fantasy holds no limitations.)

Though the initial "Infinity War" projects much to anticipate and contemplate, its best asset might be the way it combines science and magic, but then, haven't the adventures of Thor and Strange already succeeded there? Also, when it wants to be, the film is as somber as "Winter Soldier" and yet at other times, as outrageous as a Guardians misadventure. Again, we've already seen these extremes on the big screen, though per divided presentations. That they work well within the same context, darting from out so many opposing vantages (and never turning cringe-worthy in the process), is quite a superheroic stunt. (Heck, "Infinity War" exceeds "Justice League" by leagues in this regard.) Say, maybe that's the film's thematic (and symbolic) point!

For those who've stuck with the saga since "Iron Man", it's essential to check this one out. Most will be satisfied with its epic delivery, and I bet "Part 2" will hit an even higher, satisfactory note when released next year.

So, fasten your seat belts and enjoy the high-adrenaline, emotional hills and valleys. As with most Marvel flicks, this ain't Shakespeare, though this one does at least scratch that surface on more than a few occasions. For now, that's all that should count. That's all that should suffice...

AIRSHIP 27 PODCAST (APRIL '18): READY FOR TAKEOFF!!!

Hold on tight for another stupendous, New Pulp flight, as Captain Ron Fortier and Chief Engineer Rob Davis embark on a wondrous podcast sojourn.

The April '18 Airship 27 Podcast includes an in-depth discussion on the latest Windy City Con. David C. Smith (of "Red Sonja" fame) is mentioned (with a really neat story supplied) and popular heroes like Doc Atlas (soon to be an Airship staple) discussed. Davis' latest line of dynamic illustrations for upcoming Airship publications is also detailed.

Tune in now at ... https://secure-hwcdn.libsyn.com/p/9/f/2/9f2aca20204f11ba/Airship27Podcast_038.mp3?c_id=20442927&expiration=1524518229&hwt=8fe82ebfdfde4b3912d5c588ea77bfbf.  You'll be grateful for the adventurous insight!!!

Ash vs Evil Dead: Our Hero Hits Cancellation...

"Ash vs Evil Dead" bites the dust after three seasons. I guess my exclamation of its longevity (see Feb '18 post) cursed things. To say the least, I'm frustrated that the wild ride comes to its Deadite end on April 29, especially with Bruce Campbell having expressed a desire for five seasons.

STARZ at least did right by resurrecting Campbell's celebrated character, along with Sam Raimi's merciless mythology. I'm grateful for that (truly), but without an episodic continuation of Ash and the gang splattering my screen, my visits to the pay-for-it network will ultimately hit zero. 

What does this cancellation mean for Campbell and the "Evil Dead" franchise? Without question, Campbell will find his way into other projects. That's guaranteed. Like William Shatner, the man is simply too resilient to stay put (thank goodness), but something tells me "Evil Dead" may not be as rubbery as its star.

The franchise has always had a tough time of it, with false starts and delays among chapters. To boot, "Evil Dead" has never gotten the mainstream respect it deserves, and in a troubling time when teens/college kids (once "Evil Dead'"s bread and butter) cringe at stuff like demons and zombies, the required cult allegiance (and uproarious demand) for another resurrection won't be as influential this time out. 

Still, "Evil Dead" has outlasted what the snobs predicted. Few foresaw a television series springing from the film series, and therefore, who the hell know? "Army of Darkness II" could yet emerge or maybe even that damn, live-action "Freddy vs Jason vs Ash" we were once promised. 

Yeah, I know, it's all just wishing thinking, but as the astounding Ash has demonstrated time and again, you can't keep a good, chainsaw-clubbed, boomstick-blastin' legend down, and so...

SO LONG, VERNE TROYER...

You were a little man with big clout: a celebrated actor, personality and when the moment required it, an undeniable ladies' man. 

In the realm of the fun and fantastic, you covered wide, eclectic ground, whether seen or concealed, in such films as "Bubble Boy"; "Gnome Alone"; "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone"; "How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)"; "The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus"; "Instinct"; "Jingle All the Way"; "Men in Black"; "Mighty Joe Young ('98)"; "Pinocchio's Revenge"; "RocketMan"; "Volcano"; "The Wacky Adventures of Ronald McDonald"; and the cult classic, "Wishmaster". 

Of course, to most you'll be best remembered and beloved as Dr. Evil's Mini-Me in Mike Myers' "Austin Powers" spy-spoof adventures. 

You left us way too soon, Mr. Troyer, but your creative mark will remain eternally cherished, unequaled and above all, respected. 

HAPPY EARTH DAY 2018!!!

HAPPY 80TH ANNIVERSARY, SUPERMAN!!!

Though the ACTION COMICS cover lists June, the first appearance of Superman (aka, Kal-El, Clark Kent, the Man of Steel) hit newsstands eighty years ago, April 18, 1938.

The comic-book scene was never quite the same and soon thereafter came an infinite stream of fantastic heroes, including Batman; Robin; Wonder Woman; Captain Marvel (Shazam!); Captain America; the Sub-mariner...the Human Torch, to name but a few. 

Let's devote a moment of respectful reflection for Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster's iconic champion and rejoice in how our Kryptonian friend reshaped American mythology and global, pop culture forever. 

Up, up and away!!! Celebrate Superman's historic arrival today!!!

RIP ART BELL...

You held a dignified neutrality as founder and host of "Coast to Coast Am", which your counterparts on other platforms wouldn't have dared emote: a sense of fairness, calm and respect for your eclectic guests. All the while, you reminded us that different thoughts and ideas permeate this world; that there's always something behind the shallow here and now. 

Your soothing voice and spiritual waves will be missed by so many of us, Mr. Bell. 

May you find peace and joy in the great hereafter, where no doubt your courteous influence will continue to uplift.

FAREWELL, R. LEE ERMEY...

You'll always be best known for your steely performance in Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket", but you also made the rounds in more than a few exceptional imagi-films and television shows, such as "The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr"; "Batman: the Bold and the Brave"; "Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot"; "Body Snatchers"; "Buzz Lightyear of Star Command"; "The Frighteners"; "Kim Possible"; "Seven"; "Space: Above and Beyond"; "The Terror Within II"; "Toy Story 1-3"; and "The X-Files".

Horror fans especially savor your stand-out, chilling performance as "Sheriff" Hoyt in the 2003 "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" remake and its gritty prequel, "...The Beginning", not to mention your portrayal of the insensitive Mr. Martin in the effective, 2002 "Willard" retelling.

Thanks a million for your service, sir, not only in the movies, but to our great nation. God bless and Godspeed...

Westworld Triggers Sequel Season...

The 1973 "Westworld", written and directed by Michael Crichton, is a fan favorite. The same can be said of its '76 sequel, "Futureworld" and its initial, though short-lived, '80 television offshoot, "Beyond Westworld".

Some would have us believe that the recently revived (arguably sequelized) "Westworld" (fashioned/produced by Richard J. Lewis, though accompanied by poster-promoted J.J. Abrams, Lisa Joy and Jonathan Nolan) began with unconditional support at "magnanimous" HBO, founded on unconditional respect for what came before. That's far from the case. In fact, the latest incarnation went through several suspicious pauses and restarts per the pay-through-the-nose network before adapting a steady production run. Because the show was a ratings bonanza, a ten-episode extension was granted.

It's odd that "Westworld", a saga of murderous, bullet-blasting androids (who just so happen to attain their sense of identity via vengeful violence), would be welcome in the roost that Bill Maher rules. Still can’t wrap my head around that. (I've always presumed that the host's anti-gun stance might be a possible reason why HBO hasn't yet made that pistol-packin', Bass Reeves miniseries). Anyway, I wonder if the insubordinate, mechanical-cowboy premise has now been compromised. There’s so little plot information to be found on Season 2, and those few shared tidbits are so damn vague...

We've been told at least that Ed Harris; James Marsden; Evan Rachel Wood; Thandie Newton; and Jeffrey Wright will be back and that twelve, new characters will surface. Gustaf "Vikings" Skargard and Katja Herbers will portray two of them. We’ve also been told that Shogun World will be added to the story line. That's swell (I bet "Futureworld'"s Mr. Takaguchi would be quite pleased), but aren't we overdue for a walkin'/talkin', CGI Yul Brynner Gunslinger? Come on, already!

The surreal trailer for the new season does feel foreboding, if not soul-searching, and therefore conveys the appropriate atmosphere. However, as anyone who’s witnessed Joe Dante’s infamous "Tidal Wave" trailer knows, clever editing can be misleading.

Nevertheless, the artificial-intelligence genre is the new in-thing. As long as "Westworld" continues to explore Crichton’s concepts (in addition to Phillip K. Dicks', which are now inescapable for any synthetic-life story to be told), we might be satisfied. Then again, if some sneaky, "let's reinvent the wheel" slant is the game plan (and with HBO and Abrams being linked, I wouldn't be at all surprised), we could see yet another decades-spanning franchise bite the disgruntled dust. 

"Westworld: Season 2" begins April 22, 9 pm. 

I saw Lost in Space (2018)...

I grew up on Irwin Allen's "Lost in Space": inspired by writer/director Ib "Angry Red Planet" Melchior, who fancied the idea of the Swiss Family Robinson relocated in an uncharted sector of space. I had plenty of toys and model kits based on the show and watched it during its first run and then for many years into syndication. Some of the stories (those of the initial season) I found profound and later down the line, many just plain silly. All in all, though, I had formed a connection with the saga's varying events and lived vicariously through the series' young lead, Will (Billy Mumy), no matter what the content or execution. 

That loyalty prevailed even when "Lost in Space" was remade for the big screen in 1998, in a retelling I actually enjoyed. (I appreciated its time-travel motif and even its modernized redesign of the Jupiter 2.) I yearned for a sequel, but the best that came was an unsold, television pilot (now found on YouTube), which resembled "Dawson's Creek" more than the Allen/Melchior vision. 

Now, Netflix gives us a ten-episode remake of the Robinsons' wayward mission. 

In many ways, the new "Lost in Space" (as structured by Matt Sazama and Burk "Power Rangers" Sharpless) is quite terrestrial and remains so even when the Robinsons crash-land upon their new world. And they're not the only potential colonists dispatched for such an inevitable fate. There are many ships with many families featured, with the Jupiter 2 being but one of a large fleet. (FYI: We learn that an environmental mishap has required humans to colonize the cosmos, and the crafts are launched from a lofty station in hopes of reaching Alpha Centauri, but a vicious, robot-blasting attack throws those plans asunder.)

The Jupiter 2 crew (like those of prior retellings) is pretty much the modern, troubled sort, with a pending divorce distinguishing John (Toby "Black Sails" Stephens) and Maureen (Molly "Deadwood" Parker). (For the record, John is a former Navy Seal and Maureen a highbrow, scientific type this time around.) The two kiss and make up (so to speak) for the sake of the kids' journey, all of whom have their own hang-ups, with Judy (Taylor Russell) and Penny (Mina Sundwall) often behaving strained, contentious and aloof. Will (Maxwell Jenkins), on the other hand, merely yearns for comfort, but not in a sissy sense; he's still a burgeoning intellectual, though nowhere near as autonomous as Mumy's famous persona. 

Dr. Zachary Smith, in this instance, gets a sex change. The character is played by imagi-film veteran Parker Posey. Posey's character is an identity thief, so "Smith" is actually an alias, stolen from some poor, wounded doc (Mumy, in cameo). She also goes by Joan Harris, a play upon Jonathan Harris, who portrayed the original Dr. Smith. Her consistent forms of villainy are keeping folks at bay, as she does to rugged Don West (Ignacio Serrichio) and setting folks against one another. She even plants a treacherous notion inside the Robot's positronic noggin at one point. 

Ah, and what of the Robot? Well, our mechanical companion (or rather, the B9 or YM3, as true-blue fans would prefer to call him) is sentimentally linked to Will: a protector and friend, just as "he" was in the '60s series. In this instance, however, his redesign is more in sync with Superman's Brainiac or perhaps a kaiju monster-hero than a bulky, steel comrade. When need be, he can also morph into a deadly, multi-appendaged thing that would make any "War of the Worlds" Martian envious. 

The characters interact well enough, even with doubt and suspicion surrounding them. Unfortunately, their bond never feels as strong as it could be, perhaps because this particular series (acting as one, long story) never presents enough danger to make the unit tight. There are also those other colonists to deal with (one played by fantasy-film favorite Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) who occupy much of their time. They're nice, engaging folks, but really, isn't this show supposed to be about the Robinsons fighting the elements as a lone clan?

The Robinsons' uncharted planet is (thankfully) interesting, with frozen and forested landscapes, but we don't get the constant ebb and flow of monsters that the original offered. (I was sure hopin' for a cyclops to appear at one point, in homage of the original's most famous scene, but no dice.) 

The new series' ending hints at a continuation (how could it not?), and I assume that if this relaunch does succeed, each season will be its own, separate adventure, featuring a new story arc and accompanying cliffhanger. That might work, but as it now stands, Netflix's "Lost in Space" plays more like a pumped-up prelude than a project that's reached actual fruition. Let's keep our fingers crossed that there's more yet to come, and that when it comes, it does, in fact, fulfill its potential.