Gerrod – The Bad Wilf Network

Film Review-Suzume

The latest offering from acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Makoto Shinkai, best known for his 2016 fantasy film Your Name & Weathering with You, is a captivating and intriguing work of art. With its stunning art, stunning blend of sci-fi, supernatural disasters, and political commentary, with a touch of humour.

The story revolves around Suzume, voiced by Nichole Sakura. Suzume is a bright yet lonely teenager who lives with her aunt following the death of her mother. One day, while on a cycle, she encounters Souta, a mysterious young man on a quest to find a door. Curiosity piqued, Suzume decides to follow him, leading her to an abandoned ruin where she discovers a strange door in the middle of nowhere.

Like a modern Alice in Wonderland, Suzume opens the door and unleashes a series of cosmic forces and earthquakes. It soon becomes clear that Souta’s mission was to seal these destructive portals, and he needs a “keystone” to do so. However, fate intervenes, and Souta is transformed into a broken child’s chair that speaks with his voice. Meanwhile, the keystone takes the form of a talking cat called Daijin.

Thus begins their epic and quirky journey, a delightful blend of mythic and comic elements. Suzume’s story can be seen as an allegory for the tumultuous changes that come with growing up and finding one’s place in the world, but it goes beyond mere sexual awakening to explore broader themes of power dynamics, respect, and visibility.

Above all, Suzume’s mission is to protect nature itself, a powerful and timeless concept with deep generational resonance.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top 10 James Bond films

James Bond, the iconic British spy, has been thrilling audiences for over six decades. The suave, sophisticated secret agent has starred in a whopping 26 films, each one featuring high-stakes action, daring stunts, and glamorous locales. With so many Bond movies to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 Bond movies of all time.

1. Goldfinger (1964)

Goldfinger is widely considered to be the best Bond film of all time. This classic features Sean Connery as 007, taking on Auric Goldfinger, a villain with a plan to contaminate the gold in Fort Knox. With iconic scenes like the Aston Martin DB5 car chase and the famous line “shaken, not stirred,” Goldfinger set the bar high for all Bond movies to come.

2. Casino Royale (2006)

When Daniel Craig took on the role of James Bond in 2006, there was a lot of skepticism about whether he could live up to the legacy of his predecessors. But Casino Royale put all doubts to rest. This gritty, action-packed film reimagined Bond as a more realistic, grounded character, and Craig delivered a standout performance. The high-stakes poker game and parkour chase sequence are two of the film’s most memorable scenes.

3. Skyfall (2012)

Skyfall was a game-changer for the Bond franchise. With a new director in Sam Mendes and a darker, more introspective storyline, the film breathed new life into the series. This time, Bond must face off against a former MI6 agent who is out for revenge. With stunning visuals, a haunting theme song by Adele, and an Oscar-winning performance by Javier Bardem as the villain Silva, Skyfall is a standout Bond film.

4. From Russia with Love (1963)

From Russia with Love was the second Bond film ever made, and it still holds up as one of the best. In this classic spy thriller, Bond must retrieve a valuable decoding machine while evading Russian agents and a deadly assassin. The film features some of the franchise’s most memorable action scenes, including a boat chase through the canals of Venice.

5. On Her Majesty’s Secret Service (1969)

On Her Majesty’s Secret Service is often overlooked in the Bond canon, but it deserves more recognition. This film marked George Lazenby’s only outing as 007, and he brings a fresh energy to the role. The story follows Bond as he falls in love with a woman named Tracy and takes on his arch-nemesis Ernst Stavro Blofeld. The film’s dramatic ending is one of the most emotional moments in the entire franchise.

6. GoldenEye (1995)

After a six-year hiatus, the Bond franchise returned with a bang in GoldenEye. Pierce Brosnan made his debut as 007, and the film was a hit with audiences and critics alike. The story centers around a stolen satellite weapon and features iconic villains like Xenia Onatopp and Alec Trevelyan. GoldenEye also introduced a new M played by Judi Dench, who would go on to become a beloved character in the series.

7. Dr. No (1962)

The first Bond film ever made, Dr. No set the tone for all the movies to come. Sean Connery stars as Bond, investigating the disappearance of a fellow agent in Jamaica. Along the way, he meets the beautiful Honey Ryder and takes on the titular villain, a sinister scientist with plans for world domination. Dr. No is a classic spy thriller with all the hallmarks of the Bond franchise.

8. The Spy Who Loved Me (1977)

The Spy Who Loved Me is one of the most beloved Bond films of the Roger Moore era. In this adventure, Bond teams up with Soviet agent Anya Amasova to investigate the disappearance of nuclear submarines. The film features one of the franchise’s most iconic villains in the form of Jaws, a hulking assassin with metal teeth. The underwater battle scene at the end is a highlight of the film.

9. Thunderball (1965)

Thunderball is another classic Bond film that sees 007 taking on the evil organization SPECTRE. This time, Bond must retrieve two stolen nuclear warheads and faces off against the villainous Emilio Largo. The film is known for its stunning underwater sequences and features a memorable theme song by Tom Jones.

10. Licence to Kill (1989)

Licence to Kill is a darker, grittier Bond film that sees 007 going rogue to avenge the death of his friend Felix Leiter. Timothy Dalton delivers a standout performance as Bond, and the film features a memorable villain in the form of drug lord Franz Sanchez. Licence to Kill was a departure from the typical Bond formula and is often overlooked, but it deserves more recognition as one of the franchise’s most unique and underrated entries.

The Bond franchise has given us some of the most thrilling and iconic films in cinematic history. From the classic spy thrillers of the 1960s to the more modern, action-packed adventures of recent years, Bond movies continue to captivate audiences around the world.

The 10 films listed here represent the best of the best and are essential viewing for any Bond fan.

The Dark Knight’s Greatest Adventures: Exploring the Best Batman Comics of All Time

Batman is one of the most popular and enduring characters in the world of comic books. With a history that spans over 80 years, the Caped Crusader has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless adaptations in film, television, and video games. But at the heart of Batman’s popularity lies the source material: the comics. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of Batman comics and explore some of the best and most iconic stories ever written.

Batman: Year One

Frank Miller’s Batman: Year One is widely regarded as one of the greatest Batman stories ever written. The series tells the story of Bruce Wayne’s first year as Batman and Jim Gordon’s first year as a cop in Gotham. The story is a gritty, grounded take on Batman that shows how he first established himself as a force for justice in Gotham. The artwork by David Mazzucchelli is beautiful and captures the dark, moody atmosphere of Gotham perfectly.

One of the reasons Batman: Year One resonates so strongly with fans is its focus on character development. The series explores Bruce Wayne’s early struggles with his new identity as Batman, as well as Gordon’s fight against the rampant corruption in Gotham’s police department. The story is a nuanced, complex look at the early days of Batman’s crimefighting career and remains a fan favourite to this day.

Batman: The Long Halloween

Jeph Loeb and Tim Sale’s Batman: The Long Halloween is another fan favourite that has stood the test of time. The 13-issue miniseries tells the story of a serial killer known as Holiday, who strikes on major holidays throughout the year. The story is a murder mystery that features many of Batman’s most famous villains, including the Joker, Two-Face, and Catwoman.

One of the strengths of The Long Halloween is its exploration of the relationships between Batman, Harvey Dent, and Jim Gordon. The story shows how the events of the series shape these characters and ultimately lead to the creation of Two-Face. The artwork by Tim Sale is gorgeous and perfectly captures the noir atmosphere of Gotham.

Batman: The Dark Knight Returns

Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns is a landmark work that helped redefine the Batman character for a new generation. The series is set in a dystopian future where an ageing Bruce Wayne comes out of retirement to take on a new generation of criminals. The story is a gritty, mature take on Batman that explores themes of ageing, mortality, and the nature of heroism.

The Dark Knight Returns is a tour-de-force of storytelling, with Miller’s artwork and writing both at their best. The series is full of iconic moments, including Batman’s final confrontation with the Joker, and has had a lasting impact on the Batman mythos.

Batman: The Killing Joke

Written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Brian Bolland, Batman: The Killing Joke is a haunting and deeply unsettling story that explores the relationship between Batman and his arch-nemesis, the Joker. The story sees the Joker attempting to drive Commissioner Gordon insane, while also revealing a possible origin story for the Joker himself.

The Killing Joke is a powerful, thought-provoking story that asks important questions about the nature of madness and the fine line between heroism and villainy. The artwork by Brian Bolland is stunning and perfectly captures the twisted, nightmarish world of the Joker.

Batman: Hush

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s Batman: Hush is a 12-issue miniseries that features many of Batman’s most famous villains, including the Joker, Poison Ivy, and Catwoman. The story introduces a new villain named Hush, who has a personal vendetta against Bruce Wayne.

One of the strengths of Batman: Hush is its exploration of the Bruce Wayne persona and his relationships with the other characters in the Batman universe. The story also features a number of unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Jim Lee’s artwork is also a major highlight of the series, with dynamic, cinematic panels that perfectly capture the action and drama of the story. Batman: Hush is a thrilling, action-packed story that delivers on all fronts, and is widely considered one of the best Batman stories of all time.

Batman: The Court of Owls

Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo’s Batman: The Court of Owls is a modern classic that explores a hidden society of powerful, influential figures who have controlled Gotham for centuries. The story sees Batman facing off against the Court of Owls and their deadly Talons, while also questioning his own place in Gotham’s history.

The Court of Owls is a masterful blend of horror and mystery, with Snyder’s writing and Capullo’s artwork combining to create a haunting, atmospheric tale. The story also features a number of memorable new characters, including the enigmatic Lincoln March, who adds a new layer of complexity to Batman’s history.

Batman: The Black Mirror

Scott Snyder’s Batman: The Black Mirror is a standalone story that takes place shortly after Dick Grayson takes on the mantle of Batman. The story sees Grayson investigating a series of murders in Gotham that lead him to confront his own dark past.

The Black Mirror is a dark, moody story that explores the nature of identity and the role of legacy in the Batman universe. The story also features some of the most memorable villains in recent Batman history, including James Gordon Jr. and the Mirror House Killer.

Batman: The Killing Time

Denny O’Neil and Dick Giordano’s Batman: The Killing Time is a lesser-known but highly underrated story that sees Batman facing off against a mysterious new villain known as the Timekeeper. The story is a high-concept tale that features time travel, alternate realities, and mind-bending plot twists.

What sets The Killing Time apart from other Batman stories is its focus on the philosophical implications of time travel and the nature of reality. The story is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be a hero in a world where time itself is malleable.

Batman: A Death in the Family

Jim Starlin and Jim Aparo’s Batman: A Death in the Family is a controversial but unforgettable story that sees Batman facing off against his arch-nemesis, the Joker, in a battle that leaves one of Batman’s closest allies dead.

The death of Jason Todd, the second Robin, is a defining moment in Batman’s history and has had a lasting impact on the character’s development. The story is a powerful exploration of loss and grief and shows how even the Dark Knight himself is not immune to the pain of tragedy.

Batman has been a staple of comic book culture for over eight decades, and his legacy is built on the incredible stories and characters that have populated his world. From the gritty realism of Frank Miller’s Year One to the mind-bending high concept of Denny O’Neil’s The Killing Time, there is a Batman story for every kind of fan.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the Dark Knight for the first time, these stories are a testament to the enduring power and appeal of one of the greatest comic book characters of all time.

Trailer-The Little Mermaid

At the grand ceremony of the Academy Awards, Disney took the opportunity to unveil the full trailer for its forthcoming adaptation of The Little Mermaid, providing us with the most comprehensive glimpse yet of what the movie has in store for us. From what we can observe, the film is shaping up to be an almost exact replica of the timeless animated classic.

The lead role of Ariel will be played by Halle Bailey, and her performance appears to be incredibly enchanting. There’s no doubt that her vocal ability is outstanding, and she’s poised to deliver a fantastic performance of the unforgettable songs that we all hold dear.

In addition, the trailer unveils the first appearance of several other well-known characters from the movie, including Ursula, Sebastian, Scuttle, and many others!

The film features a talented cast, with Jonah Hauer-King as Prince Eric, Melissa McCarthy as Ursula, Daveed Diggs as the voice of Sebastian, Jacob Tremblay as the voice of Flounder, Awkwafina as the voice of Scuttle, Art Malik as Sir Grimsby, Noma Dumezweni as Queen Selina, and Javier Bardem as King Triton, among others.

Why ChatGPT thinks Aaron Taylor-Johnson should be James Bond

There have been a lot of news articles recently, regarding the use of ChatGPT. So I thought I’d ask it the question everyone wants to know. Who should be the next James Bond? The below was written entirely by ChatGPT.

The idea of a James Bond film sparks excitement and anticipation around the world, as the series has become a beloved cultural institution, the only question on fans lips now is “who will take up the iconic role?”.

Out of all the names speculated, there’s only one that stands out. Aaron Taylor-Johnson. He’s the perfect choice for Bond. Known for his impressive range as an actor, Johnson has showcased his talent in both leading and supporting roles over the years. He is equally capable of portraying action, drama, and comedy.

As a character actor, Johnson is skilled in creating believable characters, with a vulnerability and charm that has captivated audiences around the world. He is adept at subtle character nuances, which will be an important skill to bring to playing Bond.

In addition to his exceptional acting abilities, Johnson is also an action star. He brings to the role a physicality that can handle the demands of a Bond movie. He is an expert in martial arts and stunt work.

He has the classic features of a James Bond that have become iconic through a wide range of interpretations of the character. His strong jawline and piercing green eyes give him the equivalent of Bond’s trademark masculinity. His physical stature are a requirement for any actor who takes on the coveted role. Additionally, Taylor-Johnson has an athletic build that enables him to handle more action-oriented roles, something that any actor taking on the role of James Bond must do.

Beyond physicality, Taylor-Johnson has the right experience to take on the role. He certainly has the pedigree of a capable action star, as seen in roles in action-packed films such as Kick-Ass, Bullet Train and Avengers: Age of Ultron. More importantly, Taylor-Johnson has demonstrated the psychological depth of a classically trained character actor.

With his proven acting chops and a track record of producing some of the biggest blockbusters of recent years, he has the star power and charisma to make the role his own. He is also in peak physical condition, allowing him to effectively explore the physically demanding action sequences that come with being James Bond. His natural charm, wit and confidence all fit perfectly with the Bond persona, making him an ideal choice for the role.

Running Down Corridors Episode 1 series 2

Welcome to Running Down Corridors, where we explore the fascinating world of the Doctor and their adventures through time and space.

In this episode, we’ll be discussing the latest Doctor Who special, “Legend of the Sea Devils”. The Sea Devils are a classic Doctor Who monster that first appeared in the Jon Pertwee era, and have since become a fan-favorite. In this special, the Doctor and her companions find themselves in the middle of an underwater battle between the Sea Devils and a group of humans.

We’ll be discussing the themes and messages of the episode, as well as the performances of the actors and the special effects. We’ll also be exploring the history of the Sea Devils in Doctor Who, and how they’ve evolved over the years. Additionally, we’ll be delving into some of the behind-the-scenes details.

So join us for an exciting discussion of “Legend of the Sea Devils”.

This podcast is part of The Bad Wilf Network. Check out www.badwilf.com, for information on all our other shows.

Artwork by Penny Smallshire.

Check out BeeblePete’s review of Doctor Who am I?

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Episode 193:The Running Man

In which Martyn and Gerrod discuss the 1987 film ‘The Running Man’.

The podcast can be accessed via different places, including Audioboom, Player fm and Itunes.

Follow the Bad Wilf team:

Martyn – @BadWilf

Pete – @BeeblePete

Gerrod – @gerrod_edward

Also check out the official Bad Wilf Vlog.

Our gear:

Zoom H5 https://amzn.to/2zo0TeV

Behringer XM8500 Ultravoice Dynamic Cardioid Vocal Microphone https://amzn.to/2Dni9Vy

Stagg 3m High Quality XLR to XLR Plug Microphone Cable https://amzn.to/2OKwnkC

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Film review- Blade Runner 2049

“Blade Runner 2049” is a science fiction masterpiece that follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, Ridley Scott’s 1982 cult classic “Blade Runner.” Denis Villeneuve directs this film with a steady hand, and he brings an evocative vision to the screen that harkens back to Scott’s original work. While it may not have been a financial success at the box office, “2049” is a cinematic gem that will undoubtedly be reevaluated by audiences over time.

Ryan Gosling stars as K, a Blade Runner tasked with hunting down rogue replicants in a dystopian Los Angeles. Gosling’s subtle and nuanced performance is perfectly suited to his character’s emotional journey. K’s discovery of a child born from replicants sets in motion a series of events that lead him on a path of self-discovery and realisation.

The film is visually stunning, thanks to the masterful work of cinematographer Roger Deakins and production designer Dennis Gassner. The world of “2049” is a dark and foreboding place, but it is also one of great beauty and wonder. Deakins elegantly captures this world, creating a moody and immersive experience for the audience.

“2049” asks the same timeless question as its predecessor: what does it mean to be human? This theme runs through the film, and it is explored with a depth and complexity that is rarely seen in science fiction. The film’s deliberate pace and methodically structured narrative may not be to everyone’s taste, but those who give themselves over to the film’s world and themes will be rewarded with a truly exceptional cinematic experience.

In the end, “Blade Runner 2049” is a triumph of science fiction filmmaking. It takes risks, has visual ingenuity, and offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. Just like the original “Blade Runner,” it may take time for audiences to fully appreciate the film’s brilliance. But there is no doubt that “2049” is a worthy successor to one of the greatest science fiction films of all time.

Review-Dying laughing

A stand-up comedian is mostly his or her own writer, director and star performer. Unlike any other art form, there is no safety net and no private rehearsal. In its singular realisation, stand-up comedy only works live on a stage – in front of often-hostile audiences. For most people baring their soul and being heckled would be a life-changing trauma, for stand-ups it’s a nightly hazard.

The very idea of standing on a stage in front of strangers and trying to make them laugh, fills me with utter dread. I imagine it’s the same for most people, and is most likely reason the subject stand-up comedy is so fascinating and rife for a documentary.

Dying laughing is a British produced documentarty, about the life of a stand-up comic and although it sometimes treads familar territory-the loneliness of the road, the anguish of your set dying etc, directors Paul Toogood & Lloyd Stanton achieve a startling level of intimacy in a series of riveting interviews with the masters of comedy. What follows is an in-depth discussion about the emotional and psychological highs and lows of life on the road.

Dying laughing is an emotional rollercoaster, which fully encapsulates the life of a performer. Chris Rock says comedians are “the last philosophers.” and, to a certain extent, he’s right. We follow this trend, with some of the most loved and respected comedians, whom speak candidly about their loves, their peevs and ultimately, their lust for being a stand-up comedian.

The film can feel a little self-indulgent at times, however that just adds to its charm. At no point do you want the interviews to stop. This is a great film, that gives an insight into the psyche of a wordsmith.

@Gerrod_Edward

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Vlog 10:Youtube creator event

Last night, I had the great honour of attending an event held by Youtube, to inspire creators.

Check out my Vlog below.

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