First off, I do not want to show myself in defence of the words that James Gunn has been known to deliver on his Twitter account between 2008-2011. The comments are disgusting, horrific and beyond comprehension. Twitter has been seen as a dangerous medium for many users who have experienced a “bump” in their career because of what they have contributed to the social media site. Roseanne Barr saw her sitcom swiftly cancelled following the message she put out about a former advisor of Obama, why she thought a racist post would be OK on such a much used site such as Twitter is just insane and I am glad she felt the repercussions.
While Gunn was indeed apologetic for his comments that he made well in advance and must had been aware to Disney and Marvel before his hiring, the company has in the last 24 hours made the decision to eject Gunn from both Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 3 and out of Disney altogether. This leaving a sour taste in the mouths of the fans and doubts over the future for the film in question.
The sacking of James Gunn is indeed a strange case, while I feel that anyone who jokes about paedophilia and rape should be taken extremely seriously and punishment should be delivered to that individual, is it right to punish someone after all these years? As mentioned earlier, I don’t see how Marvel and Disney could not have been made aware of these comments before. Why is it only when he made a comment about Trump, which many have done before, did the historical messages come to light?
The Daily Caller; a website you may not be too familiar with, has also shown their loving support to President Donald Trump in recent years. Not only with the slams against Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, but also co-founder Tucker Carlson has seemingly supported Trump over many of the noteworthy articles to fill the papers and the news sites over the last few years.
As a British citizen, I will admit I don’t dabble in US politics and I also do not have an opinion over what is right or wrong with the political climate of the United States. I write this article more as a piece to consider, James Gunn was exposed by this site and then had members share the historic tweets over the internet. Gunn has in my opinion served his penance and we are talking about the words (not actions) of a man from nearly a decade ago! If the world is able to allow someone to become a world leader after making comments about grabbing women inappropriately or even letting the MCU’s very own Robert Downey Jr. make a comeback after some very dark days, how is this really any different?
Before I finish this, I want to bring forward just one more person…Frankie Boyle! Frankie is a comedian who has possibly created the most disgusting excuses for jokes I have ever seen or heard in my life. Boyle has made jokes about The Queen, Rebecca Adlington, Katie Price’s son Harvey and even mocked those with Down’s Syndrome after performing a supposed 5-minute skit. But, the so-called comic has been allowed to continue with not only his routine, but still regularly features in his own headline TV shows after repeated offences on those who do not deserve the horrid missiles from this awful excuse of a human being.
Again, I do not accept James Gunn’s comments as the norm and am sickened with the idea that this guy who brought together two fantastic MCU films would have made these words for all to see. I would only say that for so many people who seem to continue to sicken the public with comments and actions are allowed to stay relevant but one man who made a mistake years ago and apologised for it back then has now suffered!
To all the fans of Disney, Marvel, Guardians Of The Galaxy and of Gunn himself, I would ask not to let this incident ruin what you have enjoyed of his work. I admit I can not see the Director/Writer in the same way as I did before this came up, but I do think the work he has done shouldn’t be tainted by what has been revealed. People will always look to hurt someone for one reason or another, and surprise surprise we all make mistakes that will probably bite us in the arse one day!
In the words of The Five Stairsteps…”O-o-h Child, things are gonna get easier. O-o-h Child, things will get brighter!”
Well last year I did a list on the 16 films to see in 2016, and I have managed to see most of the films on the list (still got Rogue One to come). But I am already thinking of the goldmine of films that will be taking over 2017. You would be correct with the assumption I have picked a good number of superhero films for 2017, but that is not the WHOLE list. There are a few sequels to some big hits of 2015, a few comedies and maybe a horror or two! A few honourable mentions for 2017 include Rings (which might be fun), Power Rangers (people will watch it, I know it), Flatliners (it is a sequel to Flatliners from years ago, but uses the same title) and Edgar Wright making his cinematic return with Baby Driver. With that, let’s get on to the list.
The Comedian
Ok, this is a more original entry to start off the list. This film stars Robert De Niro as comedian Jackie Burke, a comedian once known from a popular TV show, he continues to do a stand-up routine. He finds himself going through a lot of change when he is invited to his Niece’s wedding. After he attacks a heckler at a show, Jackie ends up doing community service. During this time, he meets Harmony (Leslie Mann) and the two make a strong connection. I don’t know what it is, but this film looks great. Robert De Niro always puts in a great performance, and with having a cast that includes Danny DeVito, Edie Falco and Harvey Keitel, this is certainly going to be a hit.
John Wick: Chapter 2
In 2014, John Wick became one of the biggest surprises of the year. Keanu Reeves stormed back into the spotlight as the legendary hitman. The first film was fun, exhilarating and breath-taking. Chapter 2 promises to include a lot more action, a great cast and Chad Stahelski (Director of John Wick) definitely puts the hopes up high on this one. Time to sit back and maybe give that first film a watch again.
The Lego Batman Movie
Before 2014, nobody would have said they could look forward to a movie made from Lego! But, that all changed when The Lego Movie was a box-office smash. Not only was it smart and funny, but was really creative and appealed to people of all ages. This movie, technically a spin-off to the 2014 film, has delivered some major trailers and has made me laugh on quite a few occasions. Taking everything we know about Batman and making him a lot less serious than his usual cinematic outings, Will Arnett will indeed cement himself as an iconic Batman!
Logan
The X-Men films have been filled with good and bad entries. For every Deadpool and Days Of Future Past, there has been The Last Stand and X-Men: Origins. But, Logan looks like it will be a very different film for the series. Taking place some time after Days Of Future Past, We find Wolverine and Professor X as they are supposedly two of the last mutants/X-Men in existence. Logan finds himself looking after a young girl with powers similar to his own (at a time when his powers begin to fail), and he has to protect her from the evil Essex Corporation. It looks dark and serious, not long till this one hits!
T2: Trainspotting
This sequel has been a long time coming (trust me, there is another long-awaited sequel coming up too!). Ewan McGregor, Robert Carlyle and the original cast return for T2: Trainspotting. Set 20 years on from the original, Renton returns to Scotland to make amends with his old friends and attempts to avoid Begbie who has just been released from prison. The first film was funny, shocking and relevant for its time. It looks like Danny Boyle has made yet another great piece for us movie goers.
Ghost In The Shell
Before anyone says a word, I know that adaptations of anime works have failed before (remember Dragonball Evolution?). But, there was something rather promising about Ghost In The Shell when its first trailer debuted a few weeks ago. Scarlett Johansson and the rest of the cast do seem to fit into their roles rather well, and it will be interesting to see this film when it comes out in March. It looks to stay close to its source material and even director of the original anime Mamoru Oshii has shown his positivity towards the project. Well, it will convince me enough to see it!
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2/Spider-Man Homecoming/Thor: Ragnarok
Yes, there are three films, but I have combined them as they are all part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. We have The Guardians about to take 2017 by storm, Spider-Man is to make his full debut in his upcoming movie and Thor and Hulk are about to take an intergalactic road trip. The MCU has proved to be the most financially successful film franchise of all time, and it isn’t finishing any time soon. With all three of these films coming out next year and the Inhumans show debuting in IMAX, there is so much to come from this spectacular movie series. If I have to pick, it will be Guardians that will have me most excited. But, all three are on my list and I can’t wait to watch these films.
Alien: Covenant
I was not a big fan of Prometheus, and apparently, it is because of this movie that Neill Blomkamp’s planned Alien sequel has been delayed (NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!). But, Prometheus did have some good set-up and to have this movie tying more into the xenomorphs and the Alien series is worth a watch. Ridley Scott returns for this movie and so does star Michael Fassbender as David (the best character of Prometheus) for what promises to be a step up from the mystery and expand the mythology.
Wonder Woman
The DC Extended Universe has divided fans since 2013’s Man Of Steel, and with 2016 proving to be another year that polarized audiences and critics alike, all eyes are now on 2017 for DC. The first of two entries, we get Wonder Woman in the summer and we are going back to World War 1 to learn about her origins and how she first became known as…Wonder Woman. The trailers make this film look interesting and fun, and will indeed be a big talking point when released. Plus, Gal Gadot back as the title character will indeed be fun.
The Mummy
A remake? With Tom Cruise? And the trailer actually looked…decent?! It is a confusing notion, but I do actually feel excitement towards this film. Kick-starting a new movie universe, The Mummy will see us enter a new world where monsters and beings will come together to terrify and excite us. Also, anyone else excited at seeing Russell Crowe becoming Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde? I reckon this could be the new evolution in the action-adventure genre, worth a watch this summer!
Despicable Me 3
Where do I start with this? Despicable Me is still one of the greatest surprises I have seen, I remember leaving the cinema after laughing a lot and feeling a great sense of happiness. The once great villain Gru is about to save the world yet again, this time it is Trey Barker’s Bratt (South Park co-creator) who is causing all the trouble. It looks like the minions will be neatly put back into their supporting role again and I think they are best kept there. I just wanna say, that trailer was bloody brilliant and I can’t wait to see this.
War For The Planet Of The Apes
I was never a big fan of Planet Of The Apes, the original films never really interested me (and the 2001 reboot was…bad!). The 2011 reboot ‘Rise Of The Planet Of The Apes’ gave a grand new perspective to the ape takeover of the planet and ‘Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes’ was a breathtaking experience and one of my favourite films of 2014! The new film looks set to continue the trend of the apes making earth theirs and continuing the battle with the humans. The bad news is that we don’t get the human characters from the 2014 film (Jason Clarke was indeed one of my favourite actors of that year), the good news is that we do have Woody Harrelson and who cannot mention Andy Serkis returning as Caesar (give the man a f***ing Oscar already, this part would be nothing without him!).
Blade Runner 2049
Long-awaited sequels have been a big part of modern day cinema for some time now. Some of them make for great cinema (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) and some just kill the property altogether (Tron: Legacy. It looked good, but was just pointless). Blade Runner was just yet another hit for Harrison Ford and a sequel was rumoured for decades. The new movie will see Ford return and Ryan Gosling taking on a lead role, also I should mention Denis Villeneuve (director of Sicario and Arrival) is making this film. The sequel to the 1980’s sci-fi classic may have taken a long time to come, but I think we are in very safe hands.
Kingsman: The Golden Circle
The first Kingsman film definitely took me by surprise. Directed by Matthew Vaughn, he followed Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class with this fantastic movie. With a great amount of comedy, seriously gritty action and a super cast, a sequel was needed. The Golden Circle will continue the story of Kingsman as they team up with their American equivalent to take down a new enemy. It also looks like Vaughn got every bloody actor he can find for this. Jeff Bridges, Halle Berry, Julianne Moore, Channing Tatum, Pedro Pascal and even Elton John will be in this movie! The spy genre needed new blood, and this is it!
Saw: Legacy
I will admit, the Saw series of films is probably a favourite of mine in the horror genre. Sometimes the movies could be really creative and gave such a chill because of its realistic gore and gritty atmosphere. There were moments (the skin glued to the chair in Saw 3D being a big example) when you almost could feel your stomach turn and know it’s too much. But, at its heart, the series was gripping and a punch in the arm for a stale genre (some 2000’s horror films were really bad). The new film may hopefully be a great revival to a once legendary franchise (or a new nail in its coffin).
Justice League
As mentioned earlier, the DCEU has not had the smoothest start. But, what we do know is that it has now established itself as a fully functioning world filled with many different characters. Justice League will see the famous DC team finally come together on the big screen. Batman (Ben Affleck), Superman (Henry Cavill), Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot), The Flash (Ezra Miller), Aquaman (Jason Momoa) and Cyborg (Ray Fisher) come together to save the world from the villainous Steppenwolf. Expect appearances from Alfred, Commissioner Gordon, Lex Luthor, Lois Lane, and many more when this movie hits in just under a year.
Star Wars: Episode VIII
Could there have been a film more highly anticipated than Episode VIII? With the end of The Force Awakens leaving so many with a taste for more, we will finally get to see what happens after Rey finds Luke Skywalker. With the new characters established, the fanbase again at its peak and Rian Johnson (Director of Looper, probably one of the best films of this decade so far) behind the camera for this outing, it shall be a grand adventure. Also, we shall be saying goodbye to our beloved Princess Leia in this movie. Can it be December now please?
What films are you looking forward to see in 2017? Are you upset about the exclusion of XXX: The Return Of Xander Cage or Fast and Furious 8? Let me know what you think, thank you for reading.
Well this looks awesome! The first trailer for Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2 just hit the internet today and it indeed looks fantastic. There was so much in the trailer and 90 seconds really was not enough! Though the actual story itself isn’t delved into (that would be more for the 2nd trailer), we do get a few good teases of the returning characters and the humour which made us love them in the first place. Here is the trailer, and then I will break down some of the big points…
Hooked On A Feeling – Again!
It is almost impossible to not hear the Blue Swede song and not think of that first Guardians Of The Galaxy movie. The song perfectly creeps in through the trailer as we are reacquainted with our favourite space outlaws. We get quick glimpses of the characters in the trailer, bringing us the team that saved the universe in 2014’s hit film…and they are not alone.
Yondu joins the Guardians…and Nebula?
Yes, that is happening. We have heard that these two would be joining the Guardians in their next adventure, and it certainly does look exciting. A great shot of Michael Rooker’s Yondu (looking as badass as ever!) and Rocket walking past a number of falling enemies (the ravagers?) is definitely a stand out. Then we also get that quick shot of Karen Gillen as Nebula, who is looking a bit different to her previous portrayal. That is a flesh tone on her nose and chin isn’t it? Either way, to see these two switching sides to the good guys means they must need some help!
Star-Lord, Gamora and Drax are ready
The main focus on this trailer is with the three human/humanoid leads which gives you some insight to how they have changed in the last few years. Gamora still seems to be fighting strong and will possibly be having a few moments when her adopted sister joins the team. Then it looks like Peter Quill/Star-Lord is starting to have feelings for his companion Gamora (and we know he will be having some moments with his father Ego at some point in the movie. Then we have Dave Bautista’s Drax, who seems to have become more human but still adds a sense of humorous awkwardness to his character. Damn, we have waited so long to see these guys back on screen.
Drax is the heart of the movie?
“You just need to find a woman who is pathetic…like you”. While Drax may still lack basic understanding like his fellow Guardians, it is funny to see him try to get in touch with his human side. His insistence on hugging Star-Lord and his comments are from a good place, it’s just a shame that Peter Quill doesn’t feel the same way. Something tells me that Drax will be the person we all go to for sense and heart in this movie…I know, I didn’t believe it either till I saw the trailer.
Groot is still tiny
Remember when they took that piece of Groot and he was reborn? Well, he is still growing up. Groot, arguably one of the most surprisingly popular characters in the MCU, was a very welcome addition to the trailer and I can’t wait to see how he will impact on the story. It has been said Vol. 2 picks up around a few months after the original movie, so maybe he does just need some more time to grow. Also, how adorable does Groot look in that little jacket? I think I know what a must-have toy of 2017 is going to be!
Any Avengers: Infinity Wars hints?
Well at this moment, there seems to be no connection between this film and the 2018 crossover movie which will see the heroes of the MCU finally come face to face with Thanos. While there isn’t any actual mention of the mad titan or any characters away from the usual Guardians Of The Galaxy cast, does that forest maybe look a little like earth? It is a long shot, but who knows! This may be the team coming to earth to help the Avengers? This film looks incredible and I can’t believe I still have to wait over half a year to watch it. I really hope this goes quick…otherwise I may need a hug from Drax!
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol.2 is out in the UK on 28th April 2017 and in the US on 5th May 2017.
I have to say that Guardians Of The Galaxy is still one of the best films I have ever seen in my life. This movie had brilliant characters, the best writing, look amazing and had the most appealing soundtrack I have ever heard. True, all the songs are from the 1970’s and had been out previously, but that didn’t stop them from fitting in perfectly to the film. So I have been thinking, that first album was so awesome…but what will Volume 2 be like? I have got 15 songs on this list which I really hope will be part of the upcoming MCU feature and why they would work. How about some Queen? Maybe a dip into the 80’s? Let me know what you would choose (this is just my personal opinion, but I hope you like the choices)…
Blondie – Heart Of Glass
We know that Peter Quill’s fellow guardians are fans of the music. So how about a scene in which Gamora is dancing along to this 70’s hit? Blondie is perfect mixtape material. The band has got so many tracks which would work well in the Marvel sequel, but ultimately this one would just really set a great tone for the film!
Queen – Radio Ga Ga
I know for a fact this would already break the barrier from Awesome Mix Vol. 1, but as Peter’s mum gave him the second tape in 1988, there is a good chance to have one of Queen’s mightiest anthems. There is a lot of songs to choose from, but I am sure a great montage could be formed using this classic tune.
Pretenders – Brass In Pocket
Yet again I can just imagine this classic being a good song for the cast to be dancing around to. Maybe if a love scene between Star-Lord and Gamora was to come. Romantic? Maybe not. But there is something about this song and the belief from many listeners that this relates to intercourse just sounds like it could fit in.
Kate Bush – Wuthering Heights
There is something about this song which just screams comedy gold to me. I don’t know how exactly it could fit in, but there is just something about this Number one track from Kate Bush which would surely benefit from Chris Pratt’s Star-Lord trying to sing along to it.
The Who – Behind Blue Eyes
There needs to be one or two emotional songs in any soundtrack. I am sure meeting his father would be a very emotional time. How about taking one of the more gripping tracks from their back catalogue and placing it front and centre when he finally meets Ego?
Elton John – Ego
Speaking of Ego, how about the Elton John track of the same name? I will be honest, there isn’t much that can be done with this track. But you never know. It could be a fun track to chuck in there somewhere, otherwise ‘Goodbye Yellow Brick Road’ could also be a great addition.
Whitney Houston – Saving All My Love For You
So I said there had to be some emotional tracks in the film. While I was thinking of the 80’s for inspiration, I just think this would be another great track for the relationship of Star-Lord and Gamora. We will see if it does happen.
A-Ha – Take On Me
Could this be the tune to a fight scene? It would certainly work well for a chase scene in the movie! Again, I know nothing of what is to come apart from what has been officially released, but I know this song would fit in perfectly. Blending the 70’s and 80’s music would certainly be highlighted with some A-Ha.
Madness – Our House
The one thing we get from the Guardians is that they are very much a family. They also are living together on the Milano and I reckon they must have a family feel to them when we see Vol. 2. ‘Our House’ is fantastic and would be great for the start of the film.
Thin Lizzy – Jailbreak
Will we get another sequence like the escape from The Kyln? If so, why not give a spin of the famous Thin Lizzy track which I think would have been perfect for that scene in the first movie. A great rock tune and another fine addition of the playlist.
Bee Gees – Stayin Alive
Why not include some disco in the mix? Bee Gees and Chris Pratt sounds like a match made in heaven, but imagine Bautista’s Drax getting into the groove? Baby Groot could be in the background with Gamora and Rocket singing along? Please make it happen.
Abba – Mamma Mia
What would be wrong with Abba? Nothing!
Belinda Carlisle – Heaven Is A Place On Earth
I am sure something will encourage Star-Lord to return to earth, and I think it would be this song that would make him want to return. It is just a great song which does great as a pop tune and a more serious track overall!
AC/DC – Highway To Hell
Every film needs to have a kick arse song to end it…and I think this would be great. It is presumed that the movie will be a lead in to Avengers: Infinity Wars, which needs something big to bridge that gap. If you are about to take on the most dangerous being in existence, there has to be something that really sets that tone. The classic rock track is indeed perfect to close the film!
David Bowie – Space Oddity
Yes, there was a Bowie track on the first film, but would it hurt to have another? David Bowie sadly left us earlier this year and it is a shame he never got to become part of this brilliant film world. But how great would it be to have ‘Space Oddity’ play in this film? I think it would be perfect for the film and I reckon James Gunn must have considered it at some point! Please please please have this as part of Awesome Mix Vol. 2!
The Singing Whovian 