In a recent appearance at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media and Telecom Conference, Disney CEO Bob Iger spoke about the future of the company’s tentpole brands.
As a doting father would refer to his children, Iger expressed his fondness for all of the company’s brands.
However, he did acknowledge that the underwhelming box office performance of the 2018 standalone Star Wars film, Solo, gave the executives some pause about the franchise’s future.
The high frequency of releases may have been the culprit. Iger assured fans that Disney is still committed to developing Star Wars films but emphasised the importance of taking a cautious approach to ensure quality.
He highlighted the success of series based on Star Wars mythology, such as The Mandalorian and Andor, as a testament to the company’s continued commitment to the franchise.
Last year’s installment of the Scream franchise did not impress me much, as the approach taken by directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, known as “Radio Silence,” felt like a mere repetition of 2011’s Scream 4. Nonetheless, the movie had its merits, particularly in its endeavor to uphold the legacy of the late Wes Craven. However, Scream VI, also directed by Radio Silence and written by James Vanderbilt and Guy Busick, seems to have no new ideas to present, apart from one significant exception. Nevertheless, the sixth part of the series is exceptionally enjoyable as it presents a masterful and thrilling puzzle, even if it isn’t particularly groundbreaking.
The setting of the film has now moved to New York City, where Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera), her sister Tara (Jenna Ortega), and their best friends Mindy (Jasmin Savoy Brown) and Chad Meeks-Martin (Mason Gooding) are starting college. Sam accompanies Tara to look after her, hoping that a bigger city means that they are safe from Ghostface’s deadly attacks.
However, this proves not to be the case, as a new Ghostface appears, exhibiting an obsession with the previous nine killers. The FBI, led by Agent Kirby Reed (Hayden Panettiere), gets involved in the case, while Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) returns as a Ghostface expert. Sidney Prescott, the previous final girl, is absent from the story.
The exclusion of Sidney’s character turns out to be a good thing, as it forces the writers to focus on the other characters. Sam, Tara, Mindy, and Chad take the center stage, and they are given enough time to make an impression. Melissa Barrera shines as Sam, and her portrayal brings depth to the character. Jenna Ortega, Jasmin Savoy Brown, and Mason Gooding are also noteworthy in their performances. Hayden Panettiere’s return as Kirby is a pleasant surprise, and she adds an extra layer to the plot.
While the film’s plot is cleverly crafted, it is not particularly challenging to guess who the killer is. However, the direction by Radio Silence elevates the movie. The suspense, danger, and action sequences are spectacular, particularly the ones set in a neighborhood grocery store and a ladder between apartment complexes. The climactic sequence may not break many rules, but it is executed with precision.
Neve Campbell’s absence from Scream VI is certainly a loss for fans of the franchise, but it’s also a reminder of the ongoing issues of pay equity and fair compensation in the entertainment industry. Hopefully, her decision to turn down the role will contribute to a larger conversation about the value of women’s contributions in film and television and the need for greater representation and equality.
In conclusion, Scream VI may not have much new to offer, but it is a thrilling and entertaining addition to the franchise. The film’s focus on the four main characters, along with the brilliant direction, make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the series.
The re-emergence of Jon’s secret identity has given him a chance to experience a normal teenage life once again. With a loving and supportive boyfriend, a joyful home environment, and a part-time job that involves saving the world, things seem to be going well for Jon. However, trouble arises when satellites start falling from the sky.
Thanks to Taylor’s masterful script, this latest Superman narrative begins with a bang, blending emotional weight with action and multiversal chaos. At the center of the story is Jon Kent, and Taylor fearlessly delves into the depths of his trauma caused by the villainous Ultraman. Rather than resorting to cheap thrills, Taylor’s skilled writing ensures that the story is a carefully crafted exploration of dark themes. We can expect a nuanced portrayal of Jon’s journey, set against the vivid backdrop of a superhero’s cape. The question remains: will Jon emerge from his ordeal as the same hero we know?
The narrative skillfully weaves together themes of loss, hope, and childhood traumas. To sweeten the pot, the minds behind the phenomenal Injustice series promise to take us on a journey through a multiverse. This story is sure to be a thrilling ride.
Clayton Henry’s art is stunning, packed with incredible detail and nuance. Bellaire’s colors perfectly capture the gamut of emotions, from the warm glow of a family kitchen to the terror of a burning planet.
In every sense, this story is beautiful, dark, and full of the twin lures of danger and desire. I eagerly anticipate what’s to come.
A group of strangers awaken on an unfamiliar planet, with no recollection of how they got there, no agreement on the year, and no idea who to trust. Their only certainty is that something is picking them off one by one. Ed Brisson and Netho Diaz’s new series appears, at first glance, to be a homage to the 2010 film Predators, but this first issue proves to be much more than that. It cleverly incorporates the official Predator timeline and raises the stakes for action and horror.
The characters are quickly introduced, each with unique personality traits and skills that could prove useful in their fight for survival. The opening pages mix character introductions with expository action, allowing readers to get to know the characters as they flee for their lives. But this is a Predator story, and so blood and gore quickly become the norm. Diaz illustrates imaginative set pieces and inventive deaths that are astonishingly gruesome for a mainstream Marvel book.
Despite the frenzied action and chaos, the creative team keeps the story coherent and easy to follow. The use of blues and grays by colorist Erik Arciniega is effective in highlighting when the Predators are camouflaged or materializing into view, adding to the tension of the chase scenes.
Overall, this first issue promises an exciting and action-packed ride for fans of the Predator franchise, and it’s a must-read for those who enjoyed the previous miniseries. The final page leaves no doubt that this series is going to be a wild and thrilling ride.
Doctor Who has long been a beloved sci-fi franchise with a dedicated fan base. And while the show has seen its fair share of successes and failures in the video game space over the years, Doctor Who: Lost in Time unfortunately falls into the latter category.
The game’s main flaw is perhaps the one thing that Doctor Who should never be, tedious. Lost in Time is essentially an energy mining game that requires the player to tap repeatedly on their screen until they’ve built up enough energy to progress. And while there are slight variations in the gameplay, the core loop is one of endless repetition.
Adding insult to injury, the game also comes with a heavy emphasis on in-app purchases. For real money or by watching ads, players can increase the automation and productivity of their various energy mines. But ultimately, the game feels like it’s trying to convince players that digging coal out of the ground with their bare hands is a fun time – and then offer to lease them a pickaxe.
The perfunctory storyline and simplistic character designs only add to the game’s lackluster quality. And worst of all, the constant notifications reminding players to play the game only serve to add insult to injury.
In short, Doctor Who: Lost in Time fails to capture the sense of adventure and fair play that fans have come to expect from the franchise. It’s a dull and repetitive game that leans too heavily on in-app purchases, and one that is unlikely to satisfy even the most die-hard Doctor Who fans.
Doctor Who: Lost in Time is available through both the App Store and PlayStore
Doctor Who is a beloved British science fiction television show that has captivated audiences for over 50 years. The show follows the adventures of the Doctor, a time-travelling alien who travels through time and space in a TARDIS, a spaceship that looks like a 1960s British police box. The show has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring books, comics, audio dramas, and more. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12, an audiobook featuring six short stories set during the era of the Twelfth Doctor, played by Peter Capaldi.
Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 is a collection of six short stories, each written by a different author. The stories are all set during the time of the Twelfth Doctor and are narrated by Jacob Dudman, a voice actor who specialises in Doctor Who related media. The stories are all relatively short, ranging from around 20 to 40 minutes in length. The audiobook was produced by Big Finish Productions, a company that produces Doctor Who audio dramas and other science fiction and fantasy content.
Story Summaries
“The Charge of the Night Brigade” by David Llewellyn In this story, the Doctor and his companion Clara arrive on a planet that is at war. The Doctor decides to intervene and help the people of the planet, but things don’t go as planned. The story is a retelling of the famous poem “The Charge of the Light Brigade” by Alfred Lord Tennyson, with the Doctor and Clara taking the place of the soldiers.
“War Wounds” by Mark Wright The Doctor and his companion Bill arrive at a hospital during World War I. They discover that the hospital is using a new experimental drug to treat wounded soldiers, but the drug has some unexpected side effects. The story explores themes of trauma and healing, as well as the horrors of war.
“Distant Voices” by Lizbeth Myles The Doctor and his companion Nardole arrive on a planet where the inhabitants communicate through singing. The planet is under threat from an external force, and the Doctor must find a way to save the day. The story explores the power of music and communication, as well as the importance of empathy and understanding.
“Field Trip” by Una McCormack The Doctor and his companions arrive on a planet where a group of scientists are studying a mysterious energy field. However, when the energy field starts to behave erratically, the Doctor must intervene to prevent a catastrophe. The story explores themes of scientific exploration and discovery, as well as the potential dangers of uncontrolled experimentation.
“Dead Media” by John Richards The Doctor and his companion Peri arrive at a museum where they discover a mysterious exhibit of obsolete media formats. However, when the exhibits start to come to life, the Doctor must find a way to stop them before they wreak havoc. The story is a fun and lighthearted exploration of the ways in which technology can take on a life of its own.
“The Revisionists” by Andy Frankham-Allen In this story, the Doctor and his companion Ace arrive in a world where time travel is commonplace. However, when they discover that someone is altering history, they must race against time to restore the timeline before it’s too late. The story explores the dangers of altering history, as well as the importance of preserving the past.
Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 is an excellent addition to the Doctor Who universe. The stories are all well-written and engaging, with each author bringing their own unique style to the table. The voice acting by Jacob Dudman is top-notch, capturing the essence of each character and bringing the stories to life.
One of the strengths of this audiobook is its variety. Each story explores a different theme or genre, from war to music to time travel. This keeps the book fresh and exciting and ensures that there is something for everyone.
Another strength of the book is its focus on character. Each story delves into the psychology and motivations of the characters, both old and new. This helps to deepen our understanding of these beloved characters and makes us feel more invested in their adventures.
Overall, I highly recommend Doctor Who Short Trips Volume 12 to any fan of the show. It’s a well-crafted and entertaining audiobook that captures the spirit of Doctor Who and will leave you wanting more, this is a must-listen for any fan of the show. With its engaging stories, excellent voice acting, and wide range of themes and genres, it’s a great addition to the Doctor Who universe. We highly recommend it and believe that it deserves a top spot in any Doctor Who fan’s audiobook collection.
Michael B. Jordan delivers a knockout punch with his directorial debut in “Creed III,” the latest installment of the “Rocky” spin-off franchise. Reprising his role as the titular character, Adonis Creed, Jordan not only commands the screen with electric swagger and emotional depth, but also directs with confidence and style. He follows in the footsteps of Sylvester Stallone, who directed himself in several “Rocky” films, as well as Ryan Coogler, his longtime friend and collaborator, who helmed the original “Creed.” Jordan carries the weight of expectation and pressure with grace, honoring the series’ legacy while pushing the story forward.
While “Creed III” takes a little while to get into the ring, with a necessary flashback to establish the shared history between the main competitors, Jordan’s eye for detail is evident throughout the film. From the minimalist elegance of Adonis’ Hollywood Hills mansion to the use of sign language within his family, Jordan paints a rich and authentic portrait of Adonis’ life outside the ring. Tessa Thompson brings a grounded and sensitive performance as Adonis’ wife and producer, while newcomer Mila Davis-Kent shines brightly in her first major role as their deaf daughter, Amara.
But the film truly heats up with the arrival of Jonathan Majors as Adonis’ childhood friend-turned-adversary, Dame. Majors’ performance is nothing short of tremendous, bringing a volatile energy to the character that simmers beneath his seemingly placid exterior. Jordan’s direction, working in tandem with cinematographer Kramer Morgenthau and editors Jessica Baclesse and Tyler Nelson, elevates even the simplest of scenes, conveying layers of subtext and meaning through framing and pacing.
Of course, “Creed III” delivers on the expected training montages and uplifting beats, culminating in a climactic showdown that showcases Jordan’s dazzling stylistic choices in sound design, camera movements, and visual effects. But beyond the sweat and adrenaline, the film is also a touching exploration of family, legacy, and the pursuit of greatness. With “Creed III,” Jordan proves himself not only a formidable leading man, but also a director to watch in the years to come.
In “The Return of Jo Jones,” the Third Doctor is reunited with one of his closest companions. The first adventure takes place on the Isle of Wight, where Jo is summoned to deal with a series of menacing bird attacks that have upset the natural balance of things. This encounter marks a profound shift in Jo’s world, setting the stage for the emotional journey that unfolds throughout the collection.
The second story sees Jo embarking on her first space-time voyage in decades, accompanying the Doctor to the planet Viltris in the 49th Century. Here, long-simmering grievances threaten to erupt into open rebellion, providing a backdrop for Jo’s own struggles with the passage of time.
The final tale takes place on the troubled planet Mercator, where Jo delves into the underlying tensions of the local community, while the Doctor finds himself in grave danger. Each story serves as a mirror for Jo’s own personal growth and the skills she has developed over the years.
Matt Fitton’s “Supernature” is a standout entry, featuring a moving and bittersweet farewell to Stewart Bevan’s character. It also offers a dose of Hitchcockian suspense as Jo grapples with loss and grief.
Felicia Barker’s “The Conservitors” explores themes of power, risk, and resilience, showcasing Jo’s formidable strength of character.
Meanwhile, Lizzie Hopley’s “The Iron Shore” pays tribute to the work of producer Philip Hinchcliffe and horror writer H.P. Lovecraft, highlighting Jo’s empathy and the Doctor’s determination.
The cast of the Third Doctor Adventures is outstanding, with Katy Manning and Tim Treloar giving standout performances. Manning expertly conveys Jo’s pain, perseverance, and spirit, while Treloar continues to impress with his portrayal of Jon Pertwee’s Doctor. Together, they make for a powerful and emotionally resonant listening experience.
Additionally, the sound design is exceptional, creating a rich and immersive atmosphere that draws the listener into each story. From the eerie and unsettling sounds of the menacing birds on the Isle of Wight, to the futuristic and otherworldly sounds, the sound effects help to transport the listener to each unique setting. The use of music also adds to the emotional impact of the stories, with each piece expertly chosen to complement the mood and tone of the scene.
Overall, “The Return of Jo Jones” is a long-awaited and much-needed closure to one of Doctor Who’s most beloved characters. Here’s hoping that we get to hear more of Jo’s adventures with the Doctor before she returns home.
Creating a successful spin-off can be a daunting task. It requires striking a delicate balance between maintaining the essence of the original while introducing fresh ideas and characters that capture audiences’ attention. For every spin-off that becomes a beloved classic, like Frasier or Angel, there are others that fall short, such as Joey or Joanie Loves Chachi.
Fortunately, Beyond Paradise rises to this challenge by boldly taking beloved characters from Death in Paradise and placing them in a new setting with new challenges.
The series follows the relocation of DI Humphrey Goodman (Kris Marshall) and his fiancée, Martha Lloyd (Sally Bretton), to the small town of Shipton Abbott in Devon.
While the new show retains some of the DNA of its parent- stunning scenery, endearing local characters, and a one-mystery-per-episode format – it differs in one crucial respect: it has a much less body count. Instead, the series focuses on Humphrey’s complex cases, which involve a stolen painting, a missing family, and an arsonist who takes inspiration from the Three Little Pigs.
In Shipton Abbott, Humphrey discovers that everyone is in everyone else’s business, both figuratively and literally. His new team, including PC Kelby Hartford (Dylan Llewellyn) and DS Esther Williams (Zahra Ahmadi), take some time to warm up to their new DI, who is untidy, eccentric, and unorthodox in his methods.
Despite this, he soon wins them over, and they find themselves willingly participating in his strange physical exercise to prove a point about the case.
The team’s most pressing case involves a woman, Gwen Tyler (Montserrat Lombard), who claims to have been assaulted by the ghost of a 17th-century witch. Humphrey and Esther investigate and upgrade the case to attempted murder when they discover that Gwen was dragged across the floor and her ladder was moved.
The case leads them to uncover a web of adultery, financial mismanagement, and data tampering, which is a far cry from the witchcraft Old Mother Wheaten is famous for.
Beyond Paradise deviates from the standard detective series format by eschewing the traditional drawing-room reveal. Instead, Humphrey takes us back to the crime scene and explains in real time what happened, providing a fresh and exciting perspective on the traditional detective show.
While Beyond Paradise shares some similarities with Death in Paradise, it stands out with its unique approach to storytelling and focus on complex cases. It’s a welcome addition to the genre and is sure to keep audiences entertained.
As I reflect upon the Ninth Doctor range, I am struck by how quickly time has passed since Christopher Eccleston first joined forces with Big Finish to embark on a series of exciting new journeys. Come to think of it, it is difficult to believe that 2023 marks the 20th anniversary of the show’s announcement.
Throughout the range, we were treated to a plethora of truly remarkable tales that brought together old friends and foes in unexpected ways, breathing new life into this beloved character. Of course, as with any lengthy journey, there were bumps in the road along the way, but with 24 new stories in this series, such inconsistencies are to be expected.
The latest addition to the range, Shades of Fear, is a prime example of its strengths and weaknesses. While it remains true to the erratic quality that has plagued the series, it captures the essence of the era so well, touching on the right themes and creating an atmosphere that seamlessly fits into the world that RTD established back in 2005.
One of the standout aspects of the Ninth Doctor range is the incredible performance of Christopher Eccleston. His portrayal of the Doctor on audio is just as captivating and engaging as it was on television, and he continues to bring depth and nuance to the character that is truly remarkable.
Eccleston’s ability to effortlessly switch between moments of levity and moments of profound emotion is a testament to his skill as an actor, and he imbues the Doctor with humanity and complexity that makes him one of the most compelling and memorable incarnations of the character.
It’s a real joy to hear Eccleston back in the role after so many years, and his performances in the range are a true testament to his talent as an actor. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer to the world of Doctor Who, there’s no denying the power and charisma that he brings to the role.
At the time of writing, a third series with Eccleston has yet to be announced. So this could very well be our last instalment and, whilst it may not be the strongest entry in the range, it still manages to maintain the momentum of its predecessors and provides an overall enjoyable experience with Eccleston at the helm. It wouldn’t be a bad set to cap off the range.
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