Comic Book Live's Batman Holiday Special

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of hanging out at iO West at Hollywood for a geek-tastic-Batman-loving night of comedy. The Comic Book Live crew put on an incredibly funny improv show: The Batman Holiday Special! Starring Chris Gore as Batman, Tommy Bechtold as Robin, along with a huge cast of comedians who played the more iconic villains.

Check out the video! Sit back for some Batman-funny. I think Alfred Pennyworth stole the show a little bit, but doesn't he always?

Click here to go directly to YouTube if you can't get the embedded video to play.

The Dark Knight Rises Blu-Ray Review, Part 1: The Movie

The time is finally here. I got the Target Exclusive TDKR combo pack, which includes the Blu-ray/DVD/Digital movie, Special Features Blu-ray and mini comic book depicting the prologue. I'll be reviewing the movie first, but I'll just say the prologue comic book is pretty sweet! It makes me excited as a fan to see the this kickass sequence in comic book form, life's original storyboards. I only wish it were full-size, but I guess that would make for a pretty big package, huh?

VIDEO

I highly recommend getting the blu-ray version of the movie, because it's the best quality available. The aspect ratios are presented in a variable widescreen 2.4:1 and 1.78:1 for IMAX sequences (which there are a lot of). The IMAX scenes fill your screen as they did in The Dark Knight. I have a bad taste in my mouth for blu-rays that don't do this (I'm looking at you, Mission: Impossible -- Ghost Protocol). You would wonder why the IMAX sequences aren't presented in the native 1.43:1 ratio. Well, seeing as most televisions are 16x9, you'd end up with pillarboxes for the IMAX shots. The point of IMAX is to fill the screen--you're not losing critical info; although I wish there were TV's that could support the native IMAX frame. (Going back to square TV's? Why not?).

The picture quality is impressive and even improved over The Dark Knight. I watched this in IMAX several times, and this version even rivals the 35mm presentations, despite colors being slightly warmer than the original 70mm presentation.

AUDIO

Where this blu-ray really shines is the DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio. I've never heard sound this good at home. The rumbling bass and clear separation of channels bring home the closest thing to IMAX. Hard punches, gun shots, air and ground vehicles, and massive explosions really immerse you in the action. Then there are the dramatic orchestral sounds of Hans Zimmer's masterful soundtrack.

Granted, it's not and will never be as good as IMAX sound, but for lounging on your couch, it doesn't get better.

Buy the Blu-Ray

When you see how much production value went into the opening plane heist alone, you'll realize that paying a little extra for the blu-ray and a proper setup are well worth the money. It becomes an experience all the way to the end credits. I watched the blu-ray to see how good the transfer was, and I found myself completely immersed in the emotions of the story and the action. Get it today!

Bat Romance

The Importance of Batman's Love Life

Batman doesn't just need little boys in colorful costumes, he needs love in his life, and I'm all for it. I'm not talking about turning the world of The Dark Knight into a romantic comedy, but adding a touch of "bat romance" adds to the story and makes it more interesting. 

This isn't to be confused with the lifestyle of billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne--we all know that's an act, so he's expected to be seen with hotties on each arm. As for the Bruce Wayne that only Alfred knows, how is the man supposed to get some sugar when he's always in the cave?

From the Batman: The Animated Series episode, "The Demon's Quest", a two-part episode so good it could have been an animated movie.

Batman has no shortage of eligible (and willing) females, so why not? They might be bad for him, but The Caped Crusader is no stranger to living dangerously. Plus, the man has no sense of humor; he could use a little fun. So, who do you think is Batman's most fitting (or sexiest) female?

PODCAST: Episode 6

After a long break from the last episode, the Bat and the Cat finally sits down together to discuss their overall impression of The Dark Knight Rises after watching it in theaters over and over. Listen as we break down our likes, dislikes and loves from the film. WARNING: SPOILERS!


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Scene Stealer: I'm Necessary Evil

"I'm Gotham's reckoning, here to end the borrowed time you've all been living on."
(Photo courtesy of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.)

The Dark Knight Rises is a hot topic this week, because the home release comes out in 7 short days. It's exciting (although shocking) that some people will be seeing it for the first time.

One of our favorite scenes in the movie is not even a big action or IMAX scene. It's when John Dagget (Ben Mendelson) wants to talk to Bane about things not going according to plan. Little does Dagget know, Bane has another plan.

Right before Bane enters the room, you hear him breathing, reminiscent of Darth Vader.

"Speak of the Devil, and he shall appear."

The way Bane casually rests his hand on Dagget's shoulder and Stryver (Burn Gorman) leaves the room is very chilling. Bane shows Daggett who's boss!

Actually, it reminds us of the scene in The Dark Knight with The Joker and Gambol in the billiard room. You know, "Why so serious?"

"Let's put a smile on that face."

Granted, Tom Hardy is standing on a higher level than Mendelson, embellishing his height again, but that's subtle movie magic.

In the last shot, Bane snaps Daggett's neck. Even though it's not seen, Tom Hardy sells it well with the quick head turn. Daggett squeals and Stryver flinches--giving you a glimpse of the terror to come.

It's all PG-13.

The Only Actor in Both Generations of Batman Movies

Nicky Katt appears in both Batman & Robin as "Spike", as well as The Dark Knight as the [uncredited] S.W.A.T. member in the passenger seat of the unknown driver (later revealed to be Liutenant Gordon).

I recognize Nicky Katt most for his role in The Boiler Room, where he was a real jerk senior broker, as well as an arrogant cop in Christopher Nolan's Insomnia.

I don't even remember his character from Batman & Robin, but I do remember him being in it. It must have been a small role, but it's not worth revisiting.

In The Dark Knight, he's the one spouting all the one-liners during the famous SWAT van chase scene. Ordinarily, it would come off as cheesy, but his mouthiness really worked in the context of the scene. It's one of the biggest action sequences in the entire film, with no musical score, so the monologue is a key component in the soundtrack. It's very, very similar to Batman and Bane's sewer fight in The Dark Knight Rises, in that sense.

Come to think of it, the entire Dark Knight trilogy has some borderline cheesy one-liners, which I hate at first, but is all part of the fun on repeat viewings.

Bane on a Plane -- Theatricality at its Finest

I'm getting hyped up about The Dark Knight Rises again, as if it's a new movie coming out. Well, it really is--the blu-ray version!

One of the real scene-stealers of the film is the opening "prologue" sequence. I shouldn't have to tell you what happens in this spectacular opening: the CIA brings a nuclear physicist and three hooded prisoners known to be working for "the masked man" Bane onto an airplane, one of those prisoners happens to be Bane, they hijack and "tow" the plane with a much bigger cargo plane, kill the CIA, stage the death of the nuclear physicist and kidnap him, blah, blah, blah . . .

What's really great about this sequence are the stunts, using minimal visual effects. Christopher Nolan took huge inspiration from James Bond--it shows in Inception and especially in this sequence, which oddly doesn't even feel like a Batman movie. Coincidentally, Chris Courbould, the special effects coordinator, also did work on Skyfall (another fine movie, I might add).

It's stunningly shot in IMAX, and get this--edited from the original camera negative, which means no generation loss, effectively adding up to 18,000 lines (film doesn't use pixels). I always felt like the prologue had a different quality from the rest of the film, and this is why. You practically feel the grass touching your face when the jeep is driving towards the airplane, and when they're in the aircraft, you feel like you're inside with them. In effect, it accomplishes what 3-D tries to do.

"No one cared who I was 'til I put on the mask."

The tension is further built by the musical score, wonderfully composed by Hans Zimmer. I love the way the bass riff starts playing as the plane is flying, you start to hear hints of "the chant" as Bane's presence is felt (deshi deshi basara basara), and then the big drum beats really kick in once the fire rises.

Going back to the visual effects, they are very minimal. That's right--stuntmen are actually tethered jumping from one plane to another, and even the part where they drop the front of the plane from the sky onto the grounds of beautiful Scotland was done for real. Most of everything is shot on camera, and miniatures are used in favor of CGI, which is great because you never get that green screen or animation effect. It's a breathtaking opening scene that just had to be experienced on IMAX.

Watching it at home won't quite be the same, so I hope modern filmmakers up the ante and take note. Theatricality and showmanship are not dead; computer graphics and post-production don't accomplish everything. Open your movie with a bang, and consider screening the first few minutes of the film to audiences in place of trailers.

Hooded Man #2, an Unsung Character

I already blogged about Bane's Right-Hand Man aka Barsad. Now, I bring your attention to another one of Bane's Boys. A character who is simply credited as "Hooded Man #2" on IMDB.

The opening IMAX sequence for The Dark Knight Rises has become pretty iconic to Batman and film fans by now. As you may recall, Bane purposely had himself get caught along with two of his men and we are introduced to them with their faces covered with black hoods.  Then, they destroy a whole airplane and it looked nuts/epic on the big screen.

At the end of this exciting scene, Hooded Man #2 was about to make his escape with his fellow terrorists when Bane puts a hand on his shoulder and stopped him. 

"They expect one of us in the wreckage, brother."

"Have we started the fire?"

"Yes. The fire rises."

That is the last we see of Hooded Man #2 as he gallantly sacrifices his life for a cause that fails at the end of the film... kind of sucks for him. But at least he didn't have to know that he died for nothing. 

Still, not only was Hooded Man #2 a handsome feller, I thought his short-lived character was brave nonetheless. Not that I advocate terrorist actions and feelings but you gotta either be mentally unstable or you just really, really, really believe in something that you are willing to die for it. How many of us can claim to have had that feeling?

Hooded Man #2 was played by a Aliash Tepina, a Slovenian actor (according to Wikipedia)... hence the cute little accent when he says his one single but very important line in the movie. We salute you and your unsung character. At least Batman didn't get to punch you in the face.

According to Google Search, this is him... 

Dark Knight Double Whammy

Holy Blu-Ray, Batman!

Winter is a damned good time for Batman: we have The Dark Knight Rises coming to home release on December 4, and then Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 2 (animated feature) on January 29, 2013.

 

Michael Emerson of LOST will be doing the voice for The Joker in 'Returns' and I'm sure he does a fantastic job. The Joker in Frank Miller's famed graphic novel, "The Dark Knight Returns" is a little bit different, so I think Emerson will match it really well. Actually, my favorite part about Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 is the ending, so I'm already excited . . .

As for 'Rises', I recently made a post that I'm not that excited about the blu-ray release. It was meant to be tongue-in-cheek, as I will certainly be at the door on the morning of its release. I'm mostly looking forward to the special features, as well as being able to read subtitles (there is a line by John Blake that I do not understand).

After experiencing it on IMAX ten times during its run (not bad), I look forward to stretching out on the couch during all 2 hours and 40 minutes. Plus, when I have a day to waste, I can't think of a better way to spend it than as a couch potato running a Dark Knight Trilogy marathon! 

Speaking of formats, have you seen or heard of the new 4K and 8K TV's slowly making their way to market? They are 8 and 16 times the resolution of 1080p, respectively (8K apparently approaches IMAX resolution). I'm sure the color quality, sound, and contrast ratios are superior, to boot. I wonder what kind of format will support it, i.e. what will come after blu-ray?

Nevertheless, these new ultra high resolution displays are absurdly expensive, but if I could afford it, I'd get an 8K projector with the largest, creamiest screen and 22.1 surround sound with enough watts to wake up the zoo.

Here is an awesome trailer for The Dark Knight Rises blu-ray release:

Joltin' John DiMaggio

Voice actors don't get a lot of recognition, and other than Tara Strong, are sometimes hard to distinguish.

One of my current favorite voice actors is John DiMaggio. He's known for his work in Futurama, and he was also The Joker in Batman: Under the Red Hood.

Mark Hamill is regarded as the best Joker in animation, but I personally liked John DiMaggio's more masculine take on The Joker.

However, the one that really cracks me up is his Aquaman in Batman: The Brave and the Bold. There is a lot to be said for matching the voice acting with the animated expressions, and Aquaman cracks me up because he's just so . . . proud.

Check out the episode, "Aquaman's Outrageous Adventure!" (Season 2, Episode 4) to see what I mean.

"Old chum."

"Outrageous!"

Why I'm not that excited about The Dark Knight Rises coming to Blu-Ray (Dec. 4th)

The DC animated feature Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, Part 1 was released to home video last month, and it did not disappoint. I'll do a more thorough review in the future, but the short story is that it's the second best Batman animated feature, in my opinion, next to Batman: Under the Red Hood. It was more of a creative interpretation than a [virtually] direct adaptation a la Batman: Year One. I thought the voice acting and thumping musical score was superior to Year One, and while the newscaster scenes dominated too much screen time (as they did in the graphic novel panels), the choreography of the fight scenes/action sequences and especially the ending really pumped me up. Even the 80's-ness (is that a word?) holds up. I'd like for a Batman animated feature to see a theatrical release like Batman: Mask of the Phantasm did, but one can dream.

I picked up my copy of The Dark Knight Returns the morning it was in stores, and watched it the same night. I'll undoubtedly do the same for The Dark Knight Rises when it's released on December 4th this year, but I do not look forward to the day as much as I did for Returns. Why wouldn't I be counting the days to completing my Dark Knight Trilogy at home? Because that means it won't be in theaters. As the League of Shadows say, "Theatricality and deception are powerful agents".

Rises is currently the best motion picture you can experience in a classic IMAX cinema, and I don't see anything replicating it in the future. One of the reasons for this is that filming in IMAX is very expensive and cumbersome, but the result is a format unlike any other. No matter what, you can't duplicate that experience at home. You would need a 145-inch 8K Ultra High Def TV (which would run 85,000 dollars) and a sound system that would have your neighborhood dogs barking. That would give you the best "home theater" experience, but it wouldn't come close to IMAX. You'd need a six story building to fit the 1.43 ratio screen and dual projectors the size of cars running the 550 lb. film. There are many more intricacies that go into it, including the seating angle/distance and the sound, costing a total of $4.5 to $5 million for a proper IMAX theater. That's not including the massive amount of electricity it takes to run it. At $14 to $19 for a ticket, consider it an access fee to the best theatrical experience that was once reserved for 45-minute documentaries of nature.

In the age of streaming video, quick-to-home blu-ray releases, Redbox, and large, affordable HDTV's, I think it's important to still have reasons to go to the theater. I compare it to gaming: it's one thing to play a racing game at home on your console using a control pad; it's another thing to be at an arcade driving a racecar simulator. Same game, different experiences. I want Rises to be in theaters as long as possible, but I know its time will be up once Skyfall (the new James Bond flick) displaces it (Skyfall is not filmed in IMAX, by the way). Perhaps Rises will see an IMAX re-release like The Dark Knight did. And hopefully that won't just mean bullshit IMAX digital like they did with Raiders of the Lost Ark. My hope would be a 15/70 IMAX re-release of The Dark Knight Trilogy (even though Batman Begins wasn't filmed for IMAX, it originally screened at film-only IMAX locations). In the meantime, once it's out of theaters, home theater will do. For now.

Bane's Right-Hand Man, an Unsung Character

Am I the only one who sat through The Dark Knight Rises (multiple times) and wondered about Bane's right-hand guy? The actor's name is Josh Stewart, possibly familiar to people who has seen him on television on shows like No Ordinary Family or Criminal Minds.

In The Dark Knight Rises, he was Bane's obedient but nameless lackey. We see him every time we saw Bane, pretty much -- even at the very beginning, as he pretended to "turn in" the men, along with his boss, to the  CIA agent (it's a trap!). From the start, I noticed Bane surrounded himself with nice looking, young men (cough). 

A quick jaunt over to IMDB, I learn that his character's name is Barsad in the film. Although his character didn't have any development in the movie, I liked the way he played him. He is quiet next to Bane but when he speaks, there is a specific quiet confidence he projects. Like in the scene on the bridge when he was confronted by the military. He delivered his lines with a soft and knowing smile: "No, but you do." 

I have so many questions about Barsad. 

Where did Barsad come from? Why is he loyal to Bane? Is he loyal to Bane or to the League of Shadows? Is he a well paid mercenary or a terrorist who was willing to sacrifice himself? What led him to this life of killing for a so-called greater good? What is his favorite color and does he have a girlfriend? 

I guess we will never know. I doubt I'm the only one who wondered about him as much as I did. I better avoid searching for the Fanfics. 

Batman Goodies: The Dark Knight Rises on Blu-Ray/DVD

By now, all Bat-Fans are probably aware that the The Dark Knight Rises will be released on Blu-Ray® and DVD on December 4, 2012. Engadget.com has all the scoop over here,

We've also seen the trilogy combination pack making its rounds on the internet. Note that this is the UK version, but I thought it looked pretty neat.

Image and more information about the UK trilogy release here at Collider.

Now, the question we will all have to ask ourselves -- which version to get? Regular? Limited? Wait for the US trilogy release? I have to confess, that my obsession with The Lord of the Rings trilogy have moved me to purchase every single DVD and Blu-ray release versions that ever came out. It's a sickness. I doubt I can collect from two different trilogy films though and I will have to make a decision this time around.

The cowl is pretty damn cool though. 

Which versions are going to get?

Bane Graphic Novel - Why it Needs to Happen

Insights into The Masked Man

bane [beyn]
noun

1. a person or thing that ruins or spoils.

2. a deadly poison.

3. death; destruction; ruin.

Coming fresh of the hype of The Dark Knight Rises, Bane has seen a resurgence in popularity. Relegated to a simple brute in the god-awful Batman & Robin, Bane is finally relevant again.

He might not be a "household name" like The Joker or Catwoman, but dedicated Dark Knights know he's the real deal. I mean, this is the guy who broke Batman's back. I remember when that issue came out (Batman #497). There was a huge poster behind the comic book store counter. It was a bigger deal to me than the death of Superman.

Now that Bane is more of a household name again, thanks to the movie, it's a perfect time to do a one-off graphic novel reinterpretation (similar to what DC did with The Joker). I personally liked Graham Nolan's art the best, but we can go for a completely fresh look here.

Why it should be done 

Bane is a badass villain, among the top 5 in Batman's rogues gallery, in my opinion. However, the comics he appeared in were, to put it bluntly, mediocre. Plus, there are not enough of them. I've read Knightfall, Vengeance of Bane (Bane's origin), and the Bane of the Demon series. I wanted more Batman and Bane.

How it should be done

The thing I love about the world of comic books is that there are many ways to tell a similar story, or reimagine a character. However, there are things about Bane that I think should be kept consistent:

• I like the idea of him being born in a prison. His country of origin, I don't think is as important (can you read accents in comic book panels?)
• He's much cooler/mysterious/threatening when his mouth is covered. It doesn't need to be the Lucha Libre inspired mask, though.
• He needs tubes to feed him the venom. It doesn't matter how, but they need to be visible.
• Bane is smart, calculated, and two steps ahead of Batman. Do not reduce him to an [over-sized] thug.
• Size-wise, Bane shouldn't be too big. He needs to be slightly more imposing than Batman, but not The Hulk. A grittier way to go is to make him like normal human on steroids and growth hormone (Venom is not so subtly based on that phenomenon, anyway). He doesn't need to be a model of human physical perfection; Tom Hardy's bear-like street brawler physique worked really well for the character.
• I loved his romantic interest in Talia al Ghul, and the tie-in with Ra's al Ghul and the League of Assassins.
• Whereas The Joker is the chaos to Batman's order, the Yin to Batman's Yang, the unstoppable force vs. the immovable object; Bane is more of Batman's equal, both in terms of physical capabilities (i.e. hand-to-hand combat) and genius-level intellect.
• Bane is an expert strategist, but he doesn't necessarily need to remain cold all the time. He doesn't need to ham it up, either, but there is definitely room for verbal displays of quick wits.

Do it, DC! 

I would love to see a new graphic interpretation of Bane (Arkham Asylum Bane doesn't do it for me, sorry). A DC animated feature with Bane as the primary antagonist would be priceless, as well! I'm sure many fans of the character would be pleased.

Book Review: "Joker" (graphic novel)

The Joker is arguably a more interesting character than Batman. The graphic novel Joker, written by Brian Azzarello and illustrated by Lee Bermejo, focuses on the Clown Prince of Crime through the eyes and narration of his enthusiastic (but green) henchman Jonny Frost.

Set in a dark and bleak Gotham City (yes, even more so than the one you know), Joker leaves Arkham Asyllum and wants to take back control of his city. Blood is certainly shed and laughs are had, even if only by Joker.

It took a while for me to warm up to the style of artwork--with its sharp edges, extreme texture, muted color palette, and blend of painted realism; but when you read the story, Bermejo's artwork really conveys the emotion and impact that Azzarello intended.

It's not a story for weak stomachs, its gruesome violence startles the reader in extreme Joker fashion. The part where the strip club owner's skin is ripped off was a bit over the top for me, but when Joker casually robs a bank and comes back with a blood-marked photo of the bank president's daughter and then tosses it out the car window, it effectively makes you really hate Joker.

My favorite part about the book are its character designs. In particular, Killer Croc (referred to as "Croc") is not immediately recognizable but is done in a more practical manner. He's the muscle but appears to simply possess a genetic skin condition (which is based in reality). Harley Quinn's aesthetic doesn't change much, her costume being her stripper gimmick (HQ being a stripper might rub some people the wrong way); but she is taller and doesn't say much at all (again, this might leave a bad taste in some people's mouth).

Even Joker's look is more similar to Heath Ledger's in The Dark Knight, and instead of the iconic and theatrical purple trench coat, he wears a jacket similar to one Bane wears in The Dark Knight Rises:

Other characters that appear are Harvey Dent/Two-Face, Riddler, Penguin, and of course, Batman. The characters as well as their designs are grittier and they're not necessarily referred to by their common names, ala the Nolanverse; but you know it's them right away.

Overall, it's a worthwhile read, and the [very detailed] art keeps your eyes busy. I read it in one sitting--it's not too long, which is good, because it keeps your interest. While it's probably not the greatest Joker story ever told (that goes to The Killing Joke), it belongs on the bookshelf of any Joker fan.

 

**** (out of 5)

The Dark Knight Rises Easter Eggs: Part I

I geeked out at some of the not-so-subtle Batman Universe references at the midnight screening of The Dark Knight Rises, so I'll share them here. It's not an exhaustive list; just my personal favorites.

1. John Daggett/Roland Daggett

If you watch Batman: The Animated Series "Feat of Clay" episodes, Roland Dagget is a corrupt and powerful businessman, and adversary of Batman, very similar to John Dagget in TDKR. He is the president of Dagget Industries, a pharmaceutical company that develops a face cream that allows the user to mold their face to their desire. The addictive qualities of the face cream ultimately leads to the creation of Clayface. In the movie, John Dagget owns a construction company and pours concrete over Gotham City (that Bane has laced with explosives) instead of clay.

2. Giant Alligators

Okay, I know my taxonomy and that alligators are different from crocodiles, but the whole scene in the sewers and officer Blake's line about giant alligators gave me a sliver of hope at the possibility but improbability of Killer Croc. Side note: Bane beats up Killer Croc in The Animated Series.

3. Bane as Red Hood

"Rookie, lose the helmet, we need faces for camera."

Bane in a red helmet and motorcycle suit getting away from the cops on motorcycle, while the police chase down Batman just made me lose it!

 4. Bane's Coat

One word: HUSH.

5. Judge Crane/Scarecrow

Okay, so I'm a big fan of The Animated Series (it's listed as the 2nd best animated series of all time behind The Simpsons on IGN, c'mon).  In the episode, "Trial", Batman is accused of "creating" all of the criminals, freaks and monsters of Gotham City and is taken to court in Arkham Asyllum, which is presided by none other than . . . Judge Joker! (it sounds better when Harley Quinn says it). Some say that if Heath Ledger was still alive, he should have been the judge in TDKR instead of Jonathan Crane (Cillian Murphy), but I honestly don't think it would have been as fitting.

6. Some days, you just can't get rid of a bomb.

I encourage everyone to take a day off, order a pizza, and watch the 1966 Batman: The Movie. There is a hilarious scene where Adam West's Batman is running around trying to dispose of a live Bomb, but has a very hard time. When he finally brings it to the water (off-screen) and it explodes, Robin presumes that Batman went with it. Much like Blake and the rest of the city assume that Batman dies when he flies the nuclear bomb over the bay.

7. Liam Neeson is a foreshadow for everything

Ra's al Ghul (from Batman Begins): "If someone stands in the way of true justice, you simply walk up behind them, and stab them in the heart."

This is exactly what Miranda Tate/Talia does to Batman!

To be continued . . .

PODCAST: Episode 5

The Bat and the Cat wraps up with a complete overview of The Dark Knight Rises, delving into the last third of the movie. If you haven't seen the movie -- first of all, why not? -- there are definitely a lot of SPOILERS on this episode.


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Hot Toys' Selina Kyle Figure

This Selina Kyle figure by Hot Toys is kind of really amazing. I just want to buy one with a Batpod/Batcycle and make her act all bad ass. Blowing imaginary things up.

The best part is that the figure's face is so detailed and really does look like Anne Hathaway. If only Barbies were as awesome as this when I was a wee, little girl.

PODCAST: Episode 4

The Bat and the Cat continue their discussion of The Dark Knight Rises. This is the second installment and we are only halfway through the movie. Hear our thoughts on the build up to the film's climax.


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The Secret to Bruce Wayne Hair

Not all of us have a Bruce Wayne budget, and 3-button suits are a little 90's, but you can emulate Bruce Wayne's hairstyle from The Dark Knight Rises and that's the first thing to make a first impression.

Here are some tips to make sure you look like the eccentric billionaire instead of a villainous serial killer:

1. The Cut

You'll need some length to your hair, so show your stylist several pictures from several angles of what you're after. If you already have long hair as a man, you're a step ahead. If you're growing it out, make sure it takes the shape you want and have it trimmed every 4 - 6 weeks even when you're growing it out to maintain good shape. You want a little length over the ears and for the back to extend to the base of your neck. Ideally, you'd want your stylist to only use shears, not razors, for that organic 8 year exile look. A little thickness and waviness is good, so make sure to ask your stylist to finish with feathered shears.

*If you're paying less than 20 dollars for a haircut, it's time to take it up a notch . . .

2. The Wash

This is a key point--shampoo and condition your hair at night (instead of in the morning), if possible. This will let your natural oils seep onto your strands giving it better hold, movement, and shine. If you're working on your physique like Bruce Wayne, you'd probably be showering at night, anyway. In the morning, simply rinse your hair with water.

3. The Dry

Towel dry and then blow dry your hair from front to back, running your fingers in the same direction. Make sure to get the sides, as well. Use the warm or hot setting on medium or high. This will keep your hair away from your face and prevent your hair from parting.

4. The Finishing Touch

After your thick, wavy locks are dry or semi-dry, it's time to apply product. Never be afraid to invest in good styling products, as they last forever. You want something with good hold, but not rock hard. Something that holds its shape, but that you can still run your fingers through-- you want to be able to wake up from a board meeting without looking like you were electrocuted.

One good product I recommend for this purpose is "Molding Paste" by Enjoy.

It feels like clay--you just rub a little bit on your fingers, breaking up the paste, and run it through your hair. Reapply as necessary. It's non-greasy and it gives you movable texture and medium flexible hold.

Now get back in the game!

Let's pick a Harley Quinn

Let's say the day comes when we get Harley Quinn in a live-action Batman film. I definitely have a set of particular actresses who I think would do her justice on the big screen. Now, not to say that an up and coming new actress may be yet discovered to take on the role, but I picked from the more mainstream pool of current actresses. 

Emma Stone

Stone would be my numero uno pick to play Harley Quinn. She is definitely a favorite of mine and I think she has the right mix of goofy and tough -- and she has proven that she has great comedic timing! I know, I know, I've heard the one complaint most people have made about her: her voice is too deep and raspy!  Well, she is an actress everyone. I'm sure she can manage to get a higher vocal pitch if she was to be Harley Quinn. She has the big eyes and smile to match the character too.

Zooey Deschanel

Speaking of quirky, Deschanel is the queen of all things quirky. She has the right amount of comedy and spunk that would be perfect for the role. Her voice comes pretty close to how Harley Quinn would talk, she would just need to take it a little higher. Plus, I'd love to see her as a blonde and take on a look that is not so familiar to her trademark vintage-semi-hipster-New-Girl-style. 

Amanda Seyfried

I am not the biggest Seyfried-follower but she definitely came in mind when I thought about this topic -- mostly because she basically looks like Harley Quinn anyways. The heart-shaped face, the blonde hair, the big eyes and the lips. She may not be the best in my book but she has proven that she has some acting chops. Though she might be more of a romantic and angsty Harley Quinn.

Elle Fanning

She might be too young currently to take on the role but if a reboot happens ten years down the line, Fanning would certainly be old enough. I've only seen her in the movie, Super 8, but man... this girl can truly act! If another Nolan-esque Batman trilogy gets made in the future, she can certainly take on a grittier and loonier version of Harley Quinn. 

Who would you pick to play Harley Quinn?

"Vanilla" Dark Knight Rises

I went and saw 'The Dark Knight Rises' for the 5th time, and this time it was at my local theater on a standard 35mm projection.

While still a great film (I found myself paying attention to more details since I wasn't too occupied by being "wowed"), I found the experience quite underwhelming. It definitely made me appreciate the IMAX experience that much more.

SPOILERS BELOW

Here are things that I noted:

• The trailers definitely made me feel like I was there way too long. The film's 164 minute runtime is just right, in my opinion, but I like that there are no trailers attached to the IMAX film.
• The sound--nowhere close to the IMAX experience. From the opening logo, to the prologue. On IMAX, you feel like you're in the plane. Sounds that are meant to be jarring like gunshots, explosions, aircraft (such as The Bat), and the scene where Bruce Wayne shoots the bow-and-arrow a hair away from Selina Kyle really startle you in the IMAX setting. Furthermore, when Batman saves Blake from trouble, you actually here a hint of The Bat hovering behind him.
• Color quality. No comparison. I felt like the color here was notably muted. IMAX color really pops and with the high resolution and bright projection, it gives it a more realistic quality. For example, the first time we see Officer Blake on the rooftop with Commissioner Gordon, it was so dark I couldn't see his face right away.
• Scene cropping. It is known that this movie was filmed for both IMAX and widescreen formats, and while it doesn't take away from the movie itself, the widescreen version doesn't give you that realistic sense of height. Furthermore, the establishing shot of Gotham Stock Exchange is completely different.

 

Bottom line

I'm going back to IMAX for 'The Dark Knight Rises' because I want that to be my last impression. Once it's gone from theaters, it goes to blu-ray and we'll never get to experience it on IMAX again. So, I'm maximizing it now. Definitely worth the extra drive and arriving early to get the best seat.

PODCAST: Episode 3

After watching The Dark Knight Rises four times on IMAX, the Bat and the Cat sits down to share their thoughts on the movie. Here is the first part of a series of reliving and discussing the Nolanverse trilogy. WARNING: SPOILERS!


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What's Unique About IMAX?

More than just a giant screen

IMAX is a name that gets thrown around a lot these days, but not all IMAX are created equal. The Dark Knight Rises has 72 minutes of scenes shot in IMAX (and thankfully not 3-D). That's crazy when you consider that most purpose-made IMAX films (those documentaries about wild animals or outer space) are usually only about 45 minutes in length.

The IMAX Difference

 

1. Screen size

IMAX screens are gargantuan. Remember, we're only referring to screens that project IMAX film, not IMAX digital. We're talking 10 times the display size of 35mm film projections. (For the record, the largest IMAX screen in the U.S. is at the AMC Loews Lincoln Square in New York, at 76 x 97 feet).

2. Incredible detail

IMAX film resolution is also 10 times the normal 35mm resolution. This is immediately apparent when a movie switches back and forth between IMAX scenes and letteboxed 35mm images.

3. IMAX scenes are shot differently

IMAX cameras are bulky and heavy, and can only load 3 minutes of film at a time (Christopher Nolan bypassed this for The Dark Knight by having two IMAX cameras on hand). They also have a shallower depth of focus and are therefore harder to shoot with. IMAX isn't just a blown-up image; it's actually shot in a way that you see more on screen.

4. IMAX sound

IMAX sound is incredibly realistic. When you hear a rocket ship launching, a gun firing, or a Lamborghini engine revving, the bass will startle you. You also hear a lot of minor details, no matter where you are sitting in the theater. This is because each row has its own set of speakers along the side walls, and the screen has tiny holes where sound comes through.

5. The seating

IMAX stadium seating ascends at a steep angle. This is possible because the screen is so tall. What this accomplishes is that everyone is closer to the screen and has a full view.

Bottom line

IMAX scenes make you feel like you're there. When you combine the incredible detail, vibrant colors, realistic sound, and the fact that IMAX scenes fill your vision, you should experience true IMAX at least once in your life. The Dark Knight Rises is the perfect opportunity to do so.

List of IMAX theaters displaying (15/70) film

PODCAST: Episode 2

The Bat and the Cat are gearing up for The Dark Knight Rises with tickets to the midnight showing in about less than two weeks! For now, they try and settle down to talk about the various animated incarnations of the Batman, from the 90s and up.


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"The Dark Knight Rises" 13-minute Featurette

This is a cool "behind the scenes" look at The Dark Knight Rises. Notice the heavy use of IMAX cameras and practical effects in favor of CGI. Awesome!

                                                                                        

Batman: The Brave and the Bold

Christopher Nolan really did the Batman mythos justice with his vision of Batman films, aka the "Nolanverse". So when Cartoon Network launched a new animated series of Batman, I was less than thrilled at the approach and brushed it off as "kiddy".

The show subsequently aired for 3 seasons before it was cancelled, and I recently checked out a few episodes on YouTube. To my surprise, I was thoroughly entertained.

Any preconceived idea of how Batman "should be" was thrown out the window. Simply put, B:BatB is fun to watch. Sometimes, that's all you can really ask for. It's not the gritty, brooding and realistic Batman; but it's not trying to be. In fact, the show is more of an homage to the entire Batman universe. It's not as silly as Adam West or George Clooney; it deals with dark subject matter at times, but the subtlety really works here.

Easter eggs abound with caricaturistic references to Batman comics all the way back to 1940, as well as iconic reminders of previous films and TV series. In fact, the design of Batman and the Batmobile is similar to Adam West, and the Joker is more like he was in the 1960's cartoon. Sometimes, the show is so witty that I don't see how young children can possibly understand the references; but all good cartoons are like that.

Batman teams up with obscure characters from the DC universe, "showing some love" to lesser known DC characters. I picked up the entire DVD collection, so I'm looking forward to watching every episode.

The moral of the story is not to relegate every lighthearted or fantastical version of Batman to the category of camp. In fact, I think the show pokes fun at that matter itself. Batman is here to stay, and he can exist (and entertain) in all forms.

A Nod to Anne Hathaway's "Catwoman"

I know that the movie isn't out yet and it might be a little premature to be singing praises to Anne Hathaway in the role of Selina Kyle. I know the camp is divided with a lot of haters to one side. I even heard my co-workers just recently say: "I don't know what it is about her but I can't stand Anne Hathaway!"

Now, I know how they feel. I have an irrational dislike for other actresses... though I think people who can't appreciate Hathaway's talent are just plain missing out. She was adorable in the Princess Diaries movies but she shows off her acting chops in Love and Other Drugs... and what girl didn't enjoy a little bit of The Devil Wears Prada? Come on!

Just like most ass-kicking girls, Hathaway stated that she had always wanted to have a role similar to - if not - Catwoman. As a character, Catwoman was ahead of her time, breaking out of the typical female stereotypes and exploring what it means to be a "bad girl" but be accepted and respected at the same time. Forget wanting to fall in love with the "bad boy" -- become the badass girl! Be Catwoman! 

I am digging the suit. I am digging her curves in the suit. I'm digging the concept of her "cat ears" with the goggles/mask. I love that she is channeling Julie Newmar with the whole look. 

Is she going to do Selina Kyle/Catwoman justice? I would bet she will since she is Nolan's choice for the role. I guess we will always have to see when the movie hits theater later this month. I would make a 'Well, it's better than Halle Barry's Catwoman!' joke but that would be unfair on my part since I have never watched that movie (and I don't know if I want to). 

"The Dark Knight Rises" Midnight Survival Guide

8 things you'll need for opening night

July is here, and for ticket holders of The Dark Knight Rises midnight screening (which sold out within a half hour of going on sale), Thursday July 19 cannot come sooner. It goes without saying that the best, and maybe only way to experience the movie is the way it was intended--on a gigantic, 70mm IMAX screen.

Part of the fun of midnight shows is waiting in line with other fans, long before the movie begins. Some IMAX theaters offer reserved seating, but it's not always an option and it doesn't guarantee a good spot. Plus, you miss out on the fun and anticipation.

Here are some tips to keep your sanity:

Bring your tickets

This is your #1 priority. Don't leave your house without it. You might be so excited that you forget. Consider it your entrance into the party.

Arrive early

Since this is the last installment in the trilogy, expect the line to start forming much sooner than you think. Some die-hard fans might even wait in line overnight. If you're not as extreme, request the day off if you can, and go first thing in the morning. But . . . 

Get enough Zzz's

Being well-rested and alert is crucial, especially because you'll be staying up past midnight. The last thing you want is to become drowsy during important parts of the movie (i.e. all of it). Put everything aside to make sure you get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before. Take a nap during the day if you need to.

Bring friends

This allows for bathroom breaks and getting up to walk around to let your legs circulate. Take turns while at least one person holds your spot in line, but make sure your entire party is back in the line at least two hours before showtime. If you don't have the luxury of friends, it shouldn't be too difficult to gain the trust of fellow bat fans.

What to wear

This is the time to show your Dark Knight dedication in the form of a full-on costume; but unless you plan on going that route, think function over fashion. You want something comfortable enough to wear on a long flight, but presentable enough to walk into a casual restaurant. Be sure to fit the theme--whether it's a cool Batman graphic tee, Batman accessories, tattoos, etc. . . .

Get comfy

Since you will be in the same spot for a long time, you'll want something to support your tush. The Bat and The Cat recommend something with adequate support that's easy to carry, such as a picnic cushion or a lawn chair.

Keep yourself entertained

Save deep conversations for when you get in line. Bring a deck of playing cards, a drawing pad, or things to read, in the form of Batman comic books or 'The Dark Knight Rises' magazine issues. Bring a portable DVD player or a laptop to re-watch Batman Begins and The Dark Knight one more time  before Rises, just be careful not to over-stimulate your senses. You can also download and listen to our podcast!

The Dark Knight diet

You want to avoid having to go to the bathroom too frequently. Items that increase urinary frequency are: alcohol, caffeine, too much salt, and high protein foods. You also want to avoid very juicy fruits for today such as melons, but other fruits are fine (e.g. bananas).

Conclusion

Follow these tips, and Rises is sure to be one of the most memorable movie-going experiences in your life. Remember, you only get one chance to attend a midnight showing. If you choose to ignore our advice, it would be extremely painful . . . for you.