Opinions – Page 10 – The Bad Wilf Network

Review: Big Finish-Dracula

Big Finish’s audio rendition of one of the best and most thrilling horror stories ever written, “Dracula,” is a peculiar release.
The majority of the tale is conveyed through letters, second-hand stories, log entries, and other sources, many of which are not actually witnessed or seen in the main storyline. Bram Stoker’s original story, written in 1897, does not lend itself well to a faithful audio drama translation.
However, this adaptation, directed by Scott Handcock and adapted by Jonathan Barnes, gives it a good shot, and the outcome is something recognisable, yet feels entirely fresh and new.

Of course, Barnes is no stranger to adapting famous horror stories for Big Finish, having recently released the critically praised ‘Frankenstein,’ so it’s no surprise that he boldly plays with the structure to retain the listener’s attention.

Over the course of three discs, the plot follows Jonathan Harker (Joseph Kloska) as he is sent to Transylvania to meet the infamous Count Dracula, played spectacularly by Mark Gatiss.
He is left behind as the Count and his entourage of female vampires migrate to England to prey on its people, including many of Jonathan’s friends and family.

In the meantime, a prisoner in Dr John Seward’s (Rupert Young) institution, Renfield (Ian Hallard) is seeing visions from his Master, a diabolical creature with crimson eyes.

Jonathan’s fiancée is Mina Murray, but it is her friend Lucy Westenra (Rosanna Miles) who feeds the Count as she fades away, much to the chagrin of her three suitors, Dr John Seward, Arthur Holmwood (Alex Jordan), and Quincy P Morris (David Menkin). The cast is rounded off, with Nigel Betts playing Professor Abraham van Helsing.

The action shifts from Whitby to London and back to Transylvania after all the parts are in place.
There are deaths, visions, blood-suckings, stakes, and every other detail that has become synonymous with Dracula lore.

The soundscape and direction are atmospheric and tense, the cast one of Big Finish’s best to date, and the scares subtle and well-crafted, which is a refreshing change from the excessive gore and jump scares that Hollywood has become so fond of.

This is a rich, impressive, and assured production of a classic Gothic tale, that should be consumed in one sitting for maximum chills and thrills.

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Big Finish review-Torchwood One Rule

Prior to the fateful Battle of Canary Wharf, the indomitable Yvonne Hartman embarked on a captivating escapade in Cardiff, as depicted in Big Finish’s audio spin-off series. As an avid follower of the Whoniverse, I was eagerly anticipating this prequel to both Torchwood and the Doctor Who Series 2 finale ‘Army of Ghosts’/’Doomsday,’ particularly as it delves deeper into the character of Yvonne Hartman, portrayed with gusto by Tracy-Ann Oberman.

While Hartman was a formidable force in her limited appearances, it was refreshing to witness her ideologies explored further in this tale, which sees her venture out of her comfort zone and navigate the quirks and challenges of Cardiff. One particularly irksome obstacle in her path is the boorish and bigoted mayoral candidate, Barry Jackson, whose interactions with Hartman make for entertaining listening.

The narrative is further enriched by its setting on the same day as the broadcast of ‘Rose,’ thereby evoking a wave of nostalgia and poignancy as it references the aftermath of the Auton invasion in the series opener. However, what truly elevates the episode is the exceptional writing of Joseph Lidster, who not only brings a wealth of experience from his contributions to the TV series, but also imbues Yvonne with a multifaceted personality that is both compelling and unnerving.

This feat would not have been accomplished without the impeccable performance of Tracy-Ann Oberman, whose interpretation of Yvonne is so convincing that it feels as though no time has passed since her last appearance in Series 2. With such a commanding portrayal, one cannot help but yearn for a spin-off series that solely focuses on Yvonne’s tenure at Torchwood 1.

Additionally, I must laud Joe Lidster’s superb script, which not only delivers a captivating plot but also delves deep into the psyche of Yvonne Hartman. Lidster’s writing showcases Yvonne’s unwavering commitment to her job, her sharp wit, and her intelligence, while also highlighting the darker aspects of her character that make her a force to be reckoned with. The character development that Lidster brings to the table is truly exceptional, and it is a testament to his skill as a writer. Overall, ‘One Rule’ is a triumph of storytelling that demonstrates the talent of both Lidster and the Torchwood team at Big Finish. This is marvellous addition, that proves Torchwood is one of Big Finish’s most exemplary ranges.

Big Finish review-Torchwood: Fall to Earth

The first episode of Big Finish’s new Torchwood series, ‘The Conspiracy,’ got off to a really great start. It was a nice mix of drama and narration, and set the scene up for Torchwood’s latest arc really nicely.

‘Fall to Earth’ is a very different type of story. While it only has two cast members for the whole episode – namely Gareth David-Lloyd as Ianto Jones, and Lisa Zahra as Zeynep – there’s no narration for this one. In fact, the entire story is focused on one telephone conversation, and it’s both the most random and most mundane of telephone conversations, at that: a cold caller trying to sell Ianto some insurance.

What makes this cold call interesting to listen to, however, is that Ianto’s been called while he’s on a crashing spaceship and there’s no one else who can help him…

Despite being a two-hander and, even on audio, mostly taking place in one setting, this is a very fast-paced episode. It unfolds over real time as Ianto does his best to convince this insurance seller to help him, even if he has to actually buy insurance to do it.

Along the way, we gradually learn more about both Zeynep, the person whom Ianto is talking to the entire time, and how and why Ianto ended up on the spaceship in the first place.

There’s heaps of drama in the story, as Ianto and Zeynep get to know each other better and form a really close bond over the course of the episode. It’s actually the kind of story you’d expect from Torchwood – something that’s a lot more focused on the ordinary humans than on spaceships, aliens, and conspiracies. Those things are just the catalyst that allow the emotional drama to happen, and we get a lot of it with this story.

Towards the end, it gives its listeners a massive gut-punch, and the fact that it’s delivered so well after only an hour of build-up is a testament to the writing of James Goss.

Gareth David-Lloyd carries the weight of this story entirely on his shoulders, and he does so with remarkable skill and emotional range. His portrayal of Ianto’s desperation, fear, and eventual resignation is truly captivating and serves to draw the listener in even further.

Gareth’s performance is the standout aspect of the episode, and it’s clear that he has a deep understanding of the character he’s been playing for over a decade.

I struggle with audio dramas, my mind drifts a lot. However ‘Fall to Earth’ grabbed my attention from start to finish. It’s a beautiful two-hander and shows exactly what Big Finish and Torchwood can really do at their best. With a few more releases like this, Torchwood on Big Finish may become the definitive version.

Big Finish review-Torchwood: The Conspiracy

Prepare to venture into an extraordinary realm where Torchwood takes a daring twist, pushing the boundaries of what you thought you knew. The Conspiracy, the inaugural chapter of Big Finish’s New Who spin-off series, ignites a captivating journey that redefines the beloved franchise. But does it succeed? That question lingers, for this Torchwood instalment ventures into uncharted territory, captivating fans with its fresh approach.

The invigorating new Torchwood theme will mesmerise your senses and linger in your mind. Brace yourself, as it may become your latest obsession, perhaps even a ringtone worth keeping. Composer Blair Mowat skillfully weaves a harmonious tapestry, offering a glimpse of the magnificent musical odyssey that awaits us in future instalments. The distinctive Torchwood atmosphere permeates the soundtrack, transporting you to the heart of a captivating episode.

The format itself presents an intriguing surprise. The Conspiracy embraces a unique narrative style, employing first-person narration similar to River Song’s captivating storytelling in The Angel’s Kiss. At first, this may seem like Jack is breaking the fourth wall, but fear not, for there is a fascinating in-story reason behind this narrative choice. It adds an extra layer of ingenuity, enhancing the overall experience and drawing you further into the story.

As we venture forward, we encounter the intricate tapestry of the storyline itself. Think of The Conspiracy as the initial puzzle piece in a larger six-part Doctor Who tale. It skillfully lays the groundwork for future chapters, yet when viewed independently, it vacillates between being “meh” and “ordinary.” Characters other than the indomitable Jack Harkness may come across as relatively ordinary or less captivating, leaving us yearning for a deeper connection. However, prepare to be astonished by the remarkable fact that the UK-based cast, including the incredible John Barrowman, recorded their parts while he was in America. This technological marvel seamlessly creates the illusion of a united ensemble, and credit must be given to the director for orchestrating such an exceptional feat.

Although The Conspiracy may lack an immediate sense of palpable tension, it gradually builds towards an enthralling climax that seizes your attention three-quarters of the way through. Unfortunately, we don’t develop a strong emotional attachment to the secondary characters, making it challenging to empathise when events unfold. However, where this story truly shines is in the flawless portrayal of Jack Harkness. Barrowman’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary, presenting a charismatic yet restrained Jack who takes centre stage. This is the embodiment of the beloved character we know and adore, striking a perfect balance for both innuendo enthusiasts and those seeking a more serious tone.

In terms of timeline, subtle references to Gwen and Skypoint indicate that the story takes place after the events of Season 2. However, intriguing possibilities arise, suggesting potential connections to Miracle Day, as the absence of Ianto and the lack of explicit mention of the Miracle Day team hint at a broader narrative scope. The Conspiracy also offers glimpses into fragments of Jack’s pre-Doctor life, adding an enticing layer of mystery to his enigmatic past.

Is The Conspiracy a suitable entry point for newcomers? Only if you have delved into at least Season 1 of Torchwood. This chapter plunges us into a world brimming with intrigue, assuming a level of familiarity with Jack Harkness and the Torchwood universe. It serves as a thrilling continuation of the Torchwood saga, immersing fans in a captivating web of secrets and conspiracies. However, for those who have yet to embark on the Torchwood journey, it may prove challenging to fully grasp the intricacies of the organisation and its characters. The Conspiracy assumes prior knowledge of Jack Harkness and the essence of Torchwood’s endeavours, ensuring a rewarding experience for dedicated fans while encouraging newcomers to delve into the earlier seasons.

At its core, The Conspiracy excels in delivering a thrilling experience for enthusiasts of conspiracy theories and the depths of the human psyche. It offers a gripping narrative that retains its entertainment value even upon multiple listens. I found myself drawn back to it twice in a single day, captivated by the intricate layers of the story. It’s a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship behind this audio adventure, ensuring that it remains a source of enduring enjoyment.

The Conspiracy stands as a testament to Torchwood’s evolution and its ability to captivate audiences with its bold new direction. While it may have its share of minor flaws, the stellar portrayal of Jack Harkness and the intriguing narrative make it a worthy addition to the Torchwood canon.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer eager to immerse yourself in the world of Torchwood, The Conspiracy promises an exhilarating journey that will leave you craving for more. So, put on your headphones, buckle up, and prepare to be enthralled by this thrilling audio experience that unveils new dimensions within the ever-evolving Torchwood universe.

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Henry Cavill (Formerly) The unluckiest man in Hollywood

It may seem hard to believe now, but there was a time when Henry Cavill was widely regarded as the unluckiest man in Hollywood. He often made it to the final rounds of consideration, for major franchises. He was so infamous, that I knew about him before I even knew his name.

With the news that Man of Steel 2 has been put on hold until WB get their next slate of movies out. I thought I would take a look back at the five roles Henry Cavill almost had before he represented the house of El.

James Bond-Casino Royale(2006)

After die another day received a critical mauling, Pierce Brosnan was forced to retire his Walther PPK. Which meant Bond had to be rebooted.

Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli managed to whittle down a list to two suave actors to play 007. Those actors were Daniel Craig and Henry Cavill.

Cavill has said in interviews:

“I came very close.”

Ultimately at 22, they decided Cavill was just a bit too young for the role and they instead went with Daniel Craig.

Batman – Batman Begins (2005)

Whilst Cavill states that he didn’t actually test for this, he has confirmed that his name was on a shortlist of actors which included; Joshua Jackson, Eion Bailey, Hugh Dancy, Billy Crudup, Cillian Murphy, Jake Gyllenhaal and, of course, Christian Bale.

Superman – Superman Returns(2006).

You may remember that before Brian Singer helmed Superman Returns, it was set to be directed by McG.

When McG left the project Brian Singer gave Henry Cavill the old tin-tac and he was replaced with Brandon Routh.

Green Lantern/Hal Jordan – Green Lantern (2011)

Cavill’s third unlucky attempt at a superhero movie happened in 2011, with Green Lantern. When casting began in 2009, his name was listed alongside Bradley Cooper, Justin Timberlake, and of course, Ryan Reynolds.

Edward Cullen – Twilight (2008)

Twilight creator, Stephanie Meyer has previously stated that she based the Vampire on Henry Cavill, she even tried to get him cast in the role. Ironically, two short years after he was told he was too young to play Bond, he was told he was too old to play a 200+-year-old vampire and the role went to Robert Pattinson.

Times have sure changed for Henry Cavill. He now has multiple franchises under his belt.

Check out our interview with Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer.

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Big Finish Review-Doctor Who: The Warehouse

Online shopping is a goldmine for satirical material, it’s surprising the main show hasn’t done it yet. However, “The Warehouse” takes this concept to a new level with its depiction of a massive warehouse in the sky staffed by clones, while a catastrophe on the planet reduces the populace to primitive religion, worshipping those who reside in the warehouse. The idea for the story may not be entirely original, but it is true to the era in which it is set – the Seventh Doctor and Mel era.

The story takes a while to gain momentum, with the first two episodes featuring a lot of running around the aisles of the Great Warehouse In The Sky, but not much else. However, Dillie Keane and Sylvester McCoy deliver standout performances, with Keane bringing nuance to her role as High Priestess of the Catalogue, and McCoy excelling in his portrayal of the Doctor.

As the truth of the situation on the planet is revealed, the story gains momentum, culminating in a gripping coup de grace that subverts the latest planned delivery methods of a leading online retailer. Keane’s performance once again shines in the story’s final act, lending it solid gravitas.

Overall, “The Warehouse” delivers exactly what it promises – a stolid, eighties-era Doctor Who story. While it may not be the most imaginative or memorable entry in the franchise, fans of the era will likely find it enjoyable.

Film review-Paddington

I have a confession to make, my dear reader. When I was first invited to the premiere of Paddington, I turned down the tickets. I mean, who wants to see a movie about a talking bear who wears a duffel coat and carries a suitcase? Plus, the early images of Paddington made him look creepy, like he was about to go on a killing spree. And when Colin Firth dropped out of the film just before its release, I thought, “Well, that’s the final nail in the coffin.”

But then something unexpected happened. Word of mouth started spreading after that first screening. People were raving about the film, calling it “the best film in a decade”. I couldn’t ignore the buzz any longer. So I took my kids to see it on opening night. And I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. Paddington is a delightful movie that had me grinning from ear to ear.

Based on Michael Bond’s beloved children’s book series, Paddington follows the adventures of a lovable brown bear who travels from Peru to London in search of a new home. The film strikes the perfect balance between playful slapstick and heartfelt warmth, thanks to director Paul King’s clever and imaginative storytelling. The scenes that humanise the story and characters are particularly touching, as we see Paddington adjusting to life with the Brown family in London.

Sure, the subplot featuring Nicole Kidman’s villainous character feels a bit forced and out of place. But overall, the film is a joy to watch, thanks to its excellent performances, seamless mix of CGI and live-action, and the stunning visual flair brought to the film by King.

In short, if you’re looking for a smart and entertaining family movie, look no further than Paddington. It’s a modern classic that towers above most of the other PG-rated films out there. Trust me, you won’t regret giving this charming little bear a chance.

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How to survive a London comic con

With MCM Expo around the corner, it’s time to prepare for a day of excitement and fun. Here’s a handy guide to help you survive a London comic con:

Arrive Early

Parking fills up quickly and public transport can be hectic, so arriving early is key. Aim to get there by 8:30 AM and grab breakfast at a nearby restaurant. This will give you enough time to queue up before the doors open at 10 AM. Don’t forget to check out the schedule and plan your day.

Virtual Queues

If you’re planning to meet big-name stars, be prepared to join a virtual queue. You can hit them up first, and then come back at your allocated time.

Dress for Comfort

Comic cons require a lot of walking, standing, and sweating, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothing. Shorts are a good idea even in the winter since venues can get hot. Bring extra deodorant to stay fresh and consider carrying a backpack to store your snacks and memorabilia.

Pack Essentials

Along with snacks and memorabilia, bring water and a portable charger for your phone. Con prices for food and drink can be exorbitant, so it’s best to bring your own.

Plan for Breaks

If you need a break, there are tables to sit at, but they fill up quickly. Consider finding a nearby pub to relax and recharge.

Plan Your Day

To make the most of your time, plan out a strategy for the day. Check out the timetable online beforehand and mark what you want to attend. Make an alternate list in case you can’t get in or don’t want to wait in long lines. If you’re only attending for one day, prioritize the booths/celebrities you’re most interested in and then explore the rest.

With these tips, you’ll be ready to tackle MCM Expo and have a great time.

Film Review-The Amazing Spider-Man 2

In “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” director Marc Webb demonstrates skill in crafting drama and romance, particularly in the chemistry between Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) and Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone). However, the film’s action elements suffer due to a crowded plot with too many villains to juggle.

Jamie Foxx’s Electro is the primary antagonist, but his character lacks depth and fails to engage audiences. Foxx does his best to bring life to the role, but his efforts are hampered by the film’s attempts to balance multiple storylines.

The addition of Dane Dehaan as Harry Osborn falls short of expectations, with Dehaan’s performance lacking the charisma and charm that James Franco brought to the role in the previous trilogy. The Green Goblin’s appearance is also disappointing, with poorly executed makeup and design.

The film attempts to address the mystery surrounding Peter’s father, but this plot thread only adds to the cluttered narrative. The focus on Peter’s personal relationships with Gwen and Harry is more compelling and could have been developed further.

While the script and direction of the film may have left something to be desired, Andrew Garfield’s portrayal of Peter Parker/Spider-Man is a standout performance that shouldn’t be missed. Garfield expertly captures the character’s wit, courage, and vulnerability, delivering a nuanced and multi-layered performance that elevates the film.

One particularly memorable moment is a montage of Spider-Man swinging through New York, showcasing the hero in action across all seasons of the year. This sequence stands out as some of the best Spider-Man action ever captured on film, a testament to Garfield’s ability to fully embody the character and bring him to life in a thrilling and engaging way.

The film’s most effective sequence occurs in the third act, but the subsequent final battle with Rhino feels tacked on and undercuts the emotional impact of the previous scene.

Overall, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” suffers from an overloaded plot and a lack of focus, leaving little hope for the future of the franchise. If there is an Amazing Spider-Man 3, it won’t be directed by Marc Webb.

⭐️⭐️

Listen to our review of the first film here.

Friends conspiracy theory

Now, I am currently suffering the flu and am whacked out on flu medication so, this may be crazy talk. But, something hit me like a bolt of lightning earlier today. The entire 10-year run of Friends was a social experiment set up by Doctor’s Niles and Frasier Crane. I haven’t quite figured out what that social experiment is, but I’m assuming it’s something to do with memory loss and post-traumatic stress.
First off, none of the friends really know anything about their own life’s.

In one of the early episodes, Joey and Chandler offer to take Ross to a hockey game for his birthday, and the date in that is said to be October 20th. He says, “my birthday was 7 months ago,” which would place his birthday in March, yet in the episode where Ross tries to punch Joey and breaks his thumb, they fill out his details, Ross says “you know my birthday!?” And Joey says “May-tem-ber???” And Ross says “OCTOBER 18”!
Ross’ age is a bone of contention across the whole series. He stays 29 for three whole series whilst the other friend’s age.

In the episode where Ross and his girlfriend Julie are getting a cat, Monica talks fondly of their childhood cat and even has his old toys. In the very next episode, when Monica is tasting the Fistachio product she says she’s allergic to cats and is for the rest of the shows run.

Phoebe often talks about her hard life living homeless on the streets, yet lived with her loving grandmother. She is fluent in French, yet in a later episode doesn’t speak a word of it.

The spelling of Rachel’s last name changes every year sometimes it’s ‘Green’ then ‘Greene’ then back to ‘Green’.
Chandler and Rachel met 4 times before the first episode is set and they don’t remember each other, she saw him get his toe cut off, you remember seeing someone get their toe cut off.
In the first episode it’s established that Ross and Carol split up a year prior to the episode, yet later that series Carol turns up 8-months pregnant. We’re also told that Carol was the only woman Ross slept with, but it later turns out he slept with an older woman in college.

Joey and Chandler’s apartment number changes from 4 to 19, whilst Monica’s changes from 5 to 20 without any of them realising. A whole episode set up the fact that Chandler has never cried, yet the previous series showed Phoebe make him cry.
Phoebe claims her dad left before she was born, yet later he walked out when she was 7.

Along with “get a life!” I hear you say “but Frasier and Niles were never in friends”.
No, they were never in friends. But, they did exist in the same universe. Phoebe’s twin sister, Ursula was a character in Mad about you, the characters from mad about you appeared in Friends. Chandler appeared in an episode of Caroline in the city. Caroline appeared in an episode of Friends, who else appeared in Caroline in the city?
Joey’s intelligence also takes a drastic knock over the years. He started out as an average guy then got dumber and dumber as the years went by.

What do you think? Does my theory hold any weight?
I’m likely to add more to this as further inconsistencies pop into my head.
I also think there’s something to the same people popping up with a new identity. Phoebe and Monica’s old Friend Amanda was later Joey’s agent, Bobby and Chandler’s psycho roommate Eddie, was Joey’s sister’s childhood boyfriend, Jimmy.