Jonjo’s Best Of 2018!

2018 has come and gone! While we have massive events such as Avengers: Endgame, the return of Mr. Robot and the new core Pokemon RPG to make this year an awesome one, this is the perfect time to reflect on what I thought was the best of the past 12 months!

Which film did I most enjoy? What was the best book I read? Which show on Netflix was my go-to binge? What TV show made a massive impact to me away from the online giant? These questions and more are about to be answered in the First Annual Singing Whovian Awards For Excellence And Quality!

Best Film – Avengers: Infinity War

This was not easy! 2018 brought us such gems as Black Panther, Creed II, Mission Impossible: Fallout and Bohemian Rhapsody which I am sure will all do well when it comes to the award season in the US. But, for me, the culmination of ten years in the MCU being presented in this epic movie could not be ignored.

Beginning with Thanos taking down the Asgardian refuge ship and killing half of those on board, we see him begin his quest to wipe out half of all life as he sacrifices everything to achieve this goal. Iron Man, The Guardians Of The Galaxy and the other Avengers all come out to fight in this film which truly is bigger than any other that has come before it.

Could you get a more sympathetic yet terrifying antagonist than Thanos? Has there truly been a better film series which has managed to bring together such a huge list of characters that fans have loved over the past decade? Anthony and Joe Russo show that Marvel Studios can not only create a brilliant film, but have truly made the biggest shocker since Luke Skywalker found out his Dad was Darth Vader!

Best TV show – Better Call Saul

Well, who thought this would happen? Could it be possible that the spin-off to one of the most successful TV shows of all time may actually be just as good or maybe even better than its predecessor? The tale of Jimmy McGill took possibly its most dramatic step this year as Jimmy has to deal with the loss of his brother and try to get his licence back to practice law.

With Season Four taking the biggest time jump so far, we see Jimmy and Kim slowly grow apart as the lives they live continue to divide them as the Saul Goodman persona begins to emerge as a force to be reckoned with. Kim tries to support Jimmy the best way she can, but can she possibly save him from the man he is destined to become?

While the couple may be on the rocks, we also get to see Gustavo Fring as he begins to grow his empire with the help of the fantastic Mike as he has to deal with the operations and tie up the lose ends. Also, as the series prepares for its fifth season, will we see the show eventually come up to Breaking Bad or even fully embrace a more sequel-based setting? I would like to see the show meet a satisfying conclusion with the chance to tie up all storylines for the man we have come to know as “Slippin’ Jimmy”.

Best Netflix Film – Black Mirror: Bandersnatch

2019 may be the year we will get the new series of Black Mirror emerge on Netflix, but I can’t see many people would have expected this to emerge. A late Christmas present from the streaming giant was definitely welcome when Netflix announced that Bandersnatch was to premiere on the 28^th December…but the biggest surprise was yet to come.

When the film premiered, it was later discovered that you could choose the path that the episode was to follow. Whether it was what cereal that central character Stefan would start his day with, what cassette would be blasting from his Walkman or even how you would finish a fight scene, Charlie Brooker has given us yet another classic.

While we may be waiting till later in 2019 for a full Season Five of the hit show, I can safely say that this special will keep many people entertained for hours while they attempt to get all the endings.

Best Netflix TV Show – BoJack Horseman

Can you believe we have already had five seasons of this fantastic series? BoJack Horseman is the perfect show to blend comedy, drama, speak about everyday issues such as anxiety and depression and also involve anthropomorphic animals who inhabit the world that is so similar to our own. If you’ve never seen the show before, its main star is a Horse-Man who used to star in a sitcom which was a big hit and he now gets by each day as a semi-functioning alcoholic with more mummy issues than Norman Bates.

Will Arnett continues to shine as the troubled star who has to not only deal with his own personal demons, but he also has to get through the loss of his mother in what is possibly one of the finest episodes of TV that I have ever witnessed. The supporting cast all bring their best performances in this season, whether its Alison Brie as Diane begins to deal with her split from Mr. Peanutbutter or even Rami Malek or Stephanie Beatriz for their roles as the workforce behind BoJack’s new series called Philbert.

I honestly could not have thought anything would have beaten season four of this fine show, but Arnett and the rest of the stars are all on top form. BoJack Horseman continues to tackle themes that many other shows would never touch, yet we seem to take it in just as much with these animated creations as we would if the people were real. Bring on Season Six!

Best Playstation 4 Game – Spider-Man

The PS4 has been possibly the greatest console to come out from Sony, with many games that push the boundaries of what we would consider the standard. In the last few years we have had Bloodborne terrify the masses, The Last Of Us bring people to tears and even the latest God Of War show that it just gets better and better.

Truly, the best of all these in my opinions is Spider-Man! The 2018 game which reinvents all we know about the wall-crawler and provides possibly one of the tightest and most enjoyable gaming experiences ever. The game looks visually amazing and it handles almost as well as a certain caped crusader and his series of games set around the famous prison based in his world.

While not the most original idea brought to the console, the execution of the title character and his world is just stunning. The story is indeed a unique one to any Spider-Man canon that has come before it and I am sure there will be millions of people eagerly awaiting the sequel when it his the Playstation 5 in the future!

Best XBOX ONE Game – Dragonball FighterZ

This is not a console exclusive, its not the biggest title of the year and it may actually not have sold super well compared to others, but I really really really loved this game. Taking on a more hand-drawn style that reflects the anime has really gone in FighterZ favour to produce the most exciting figher of the year.

While it has come out on the PS4 and also amazed me on the Nintendo Switch too, it is the XBOX ONE which sees it really shine with the 4K visuals on the XBOX ONE X and just bringing back the greatest memories of watching the show. When you get such seemless gameplay and beautiful art design like this, how could you not love it?

Including some great multiplayer options and a story mode from original creator Akira Toriyama is indeed the greatest strength of this game. It takes what has come before from titles in the Budokai and Xenoverse series and really puts you into the action in a way that has never been possible before.

Best Nintendo Switch Game – Super Smash Bros Ultimate

Was there any other choice? Octopath Traveler was a deep tale with some of the best music in video game history, the Bayonetta 2 port was so much fun to play through and Pokemon: Let’s Go Pikachu was a fun nostalgic trip to Kanto and I loved throwing all my Meltan into the park. While these games scored high for me, I got my biggest joy from bashing buttons as I took either Kirby or Richter Belmont to victory against the 70+ challengers over them 100+ stages.

When this game was first announced, my only experience in the Smash realm was with the Wii edition in the late 2000’s. But with each Nintendo Direct, the excitement just kept getting higher. The idea of throwing these characters from countless franchises to see them fight it out on these wacky stages shouldn’t be so appealing, but it does work well.

Whether you play alone, with friends or with that pro online who kicks your arse every single time, you can’t help but love this game. It’s simple and complex at the same time. It is visually beautiful and straightforward to play.

Best Book – The Walking Dead Vol. 30: New World Order

I will admit, I haven’t read a lot of books that actually came out this year. The Walking Dead comic series has got a book edition every six months and never fails to succeed in terms of storytelling, intrigue and character development. For a comic that has been going for over 15 years, the concept is still as fresh as ever and the latest chapter has been indeed ambitious.

As Eugene leads the group to Ohio, the survivors are invited to a community that has many people within its walls, approximately 250,000. While the gang begin to learn about the people in Ohio, Michonne discovers that her daughter has come to this settlement and may still be alive.

Like any Walking Dead story, you find that it is the living characters that are dangerous and unpredictable. Where the story will surely only develop further in the next volume, it is good to see more characters enter the fray such as the unhinged ‘Princess’ and the Commonwealth’s governor Pamela Milton (not another Governor!!!!!). Bring on book 31!

That was my list, did you agree with any of my picks? Are you upset that I didn’t include Red Dead Redemption 2 on my list of games or that I left Venom out of the running? Let me know.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Black Mirror – Bandersnatch. REVIEW

Netflix, how do you do it? You bring back possibly my favourite show on your platform with the choose-your-own-adventure format and I admittedly had a great time watching this epic. With many choices, both seemingly meaningless but fun and the more tough and game-changing decisions blend well to create a tale which is as fun to watch as it is to play.

We are taken to 1984 in this film/special when we meet Stefan, a programmer who is attempting to make a video game of Bandersnatch, a book that allows its reader to choose the path they take. While Stefan looks to take this idea to the video game company Tuckersoft, he also begins to develop a friendship of sorts with creator extraordinaire Colin Ritman. While the story starts off fairly relaxed, the mystery and the intrigue behind the characters and the world they live in slowly takes you as your choices truly shape the world you see.

I really don’t want to give too much away, but even from the first mundane decision you make, it will impact on what you are seeing from that very moment. From choosing the music you hear and even the way you deal with some big revelations is just hard to think you are actually making a right decision. This film is possibly best described as in the same vain as a release from Telltale Games, most notably The Walking Dead and Batman: The Enemy Within.

While the storytelling method may be unconventional, it does keep you hooked throughout. Though Charlie Brooker’s writing is as sharp, funny and terrifying as ever, you can’t ignore the impressive cast involved. Fionn Whitehead impresses as Stefan and the ever-fantastic Will Poulter really does a great job in a role I wish I could describe more. Also, Craig Parkinson (one of the greatest actor’s in Britain and awesome in ‘MisFits’) takes the role of Stefan’s Dad and his story also can be made dependent of what you decide.

The episode is also crammed with easter eggs and references to the past, with more than a few mentions used in the video games presented and even a couple of images that will be familiar to fans who have stuck around since the beginning. Similar to the episode ‘Black Museum’, the episode likes to remind you of the show’s past and not cram it down your throat.

While we may not have Season Five just yet, this is the perfect taster to prepare us for the next lot of episodes that will be unleashed upon the world in 2019. But until we get this next lot, I will happily keep that tape cassette playing that certain band and I look to see every option that is possible.

Final rating: 9/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

 

FIVE REASONS WHY NETFLIX AND MARVEL WILL DO ‘HEROES FOR HIRE’!

Oh Netflix, you are indeed a cruel beast. Just mere days after cancelling the much-improved ‘Iron Fist’ after a rather well made second season, we now learn that ‘Luke Cage’ will also not get a third run. Now, I have to be honest, I did much prefer the other Marvel/Netflix shows over these two. With the exception of The Defenders, the other shows in their pool were consistently entertaining and were perfect to stand on their own two feet.

But, is this really the end for both characters? Not by a long shot. There is something quite intriguing going on and the answers to the next step are all in plain sight. With both ‘Iron Fist’ and ‘Luke Cage’ seeing their sophomore efforts garnering more positive buzz than their first and bringing conclusions to their arcs in some way, they also delivered a massive cliffhanger for both to ensure they weren’t ready to go yet. Even better, the two may soon be coming together to form a Heroes For Hire series in 2019!

So, what are these five reasons I hear you say? Well, as much as I can hear you while I type this up on my laptop while listening to some Morrissey? Let me go through my “facts” and discover why these two heroes will be back soon!

ONE: THEY HAVE CROSSED OVER MULTIPLE TIMES!

‘The Defenders’ gave us our first interaction in the Netflix slant of the MCU between Mike Colter’s Cage and Finn Jones’ Rand! ‘The Defenders’ may have been less than stellar throughout its eight episode run, but many agreed that seeing the Immortal Iron Fist and Power Man together on screen was so much fun.

Following the crossover, ‘Luke Cage’ played host to Colleen Wing as she continued her training with the now one-armed bad-ass Misty Knight! Also episode 10 saw Danny Rand come to Luke’s aid and the two got to show how good their chemistry can actually be. Many critics did see Jones’ performance of Rand as much improved in this guest spot and its fair to say that he did only get better from there.

Also, ‘Iron Fist’ season two also saw Simone Missick’s Misty as a series regular to further plant the seeds of a crossover between the two shows. Also, how cool would it be to see Misty Knight and Colleen Wing become the “Daughters Of The Dragon” and have their own show too? Yeah, that would be awesome. Colleen Wing actress Jessica Henwick has proven over three separate shows that her and Simone Missick have a great bond with each other and it is crossovers like this that proves this new show needs to happen.

TWO: THE CROSSOVER HAS BEEN HINTED TO OUTSIDE OF THE SHOW!

While many would think the idea of these two shows coming together as one may just be seen in a number of on screen easter eggs and choice in dialogue, it is actually a real topic that has come up amongst the staff in various interviews. While Marvel has famously delivered more fan service than Currys during the massive heatwave over the summer, they are not too shy to discuss potential plans going forward.

Cheo Hodari Coker, the showrunner for ‘Luke Cage’, was quoted in an article on Cinemablend discussing the possible ‘Heroes For Hire’ series by saying “It’s something that’s in the air…”. Also he mentioned “Internally at Marvel Television, everybody knows there’s a part of that combination that is inevitable…” saying also that “It feels right. It feels good.” When mentioning the crossover.

When Luke Cage actor Mike Colter was asked about the potential show, he told Empire TV that the question was “Above my pay grade” but also seemed to be happy at the idea of merging the shows, while being rather cagey (sorry) about it actually happening.

THREE: THE CLIFFHANGER ENDINGS! *SPOILER TERRITORY*

Ok, if you have not seen the ending of either ‘Luke Cage’ or ‘Iron Fist’ season two, you may want to go catch-up on Netflix and see what you are missing…but if the rest of us are all good, I can continue.

The last time we saw Luke, he had just taken over Harlem’s Paradise following the death of Mariah Dillard. While Luke Cage believes he will assume the role of “Sheriff of Harlem”, Misty Knight believes that this could possibly end very badly for her friend and believes Cage could possibly be just as bad as the club’s predecessors. Luke Cage arguably needs someone to pull him back to the good side.

Misty Knight spoke more about her fear for Luke in ‘Iron Fist’ and kept her distance from him since he acquired the club. But, Danny Rand also had his own issues to deal with. He willingly passed the mantle of the Immortal Iron Fist to his partner Colleen, and yes she is bloody awesome with that fist (get your minds out of the gutter!) and that glowing katana. But, wait a sec, how did Danny suddenly get TWO glowing fists? And how can he seemingly transfer that energy into weapons? Yes, Iron Fist has a lot to answer for!

The two leads are seemingly worlds apart at this point, so a combined show could see both cliffhangers resolved and set up the team up we all want. While it looks like Colleen and Misty are already the partners we all want, Cage and Rand coming together officially has got to be icing on this already much filling cake!

FOUR: THERE IS ONE MISSING CHARACTER WHO CAN BRING THEM TOGETHER…AGAIN!

Before ‘The Defenders’, we had one link throughout all four of the original series that helped sew them all together and help establish them all as part of one big world (or one big New York!). That person, is Claire Temple! Following Luke Cage’s actions in his second season, Claire was then absent and didn’t even show up to support her friend Danny in his latest fight with Davos.

Understandably, Claire was left frightened by Luke after his action saw him punch through a wall in their home as he refused to listen to his partner. To see Claire return to the Marvel/Netflix world is more a matter of when than if, Claire was the glue that helped bring the world together and it would be a great step to see her reunite Danny and Luke just as she helped them form a friendship in the first place.

If Claire was to appear again in this section of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this has to be ideal show. Rosario Dawson is a fantastic actress and arguably one of the best to be involved in this realm. Please Netflix, make it happen. But, if Dawson’s casting wasn’t enough to convince you, how about this…

FIVE: THE CAST AND STORY COULD BE…SUPER!

In addition to Finn Jones as Rand and Mike Colter as Cage, the cast for this series could potentially be the best one yet! With both shows boasting a great roster of characters, there are many possibilities over who could join in the fun. In a slight change to format, I will make a list of who should be involved in the show:

Luke Cage…Mike Colter/Power Man

Finn Jones…Danny Rand/Iron Fist

Simone Missick…Misty Knight

Jessica Henwick…Colleen Wing/Iron Fist

Tom Pelphrey…Ward Meachum

Jessica Stroup…Joy Meachum

Gabrielle Dennis…Tilda Johnson/Nightshade

Sacha Dhawan…Davos/Steel Serpent

Theo Rossi…Hernan “Shades” Alvarez

Carrie-Anne Moss…Jeri Hogarth

Elden Henson…Franklin “Foggy” Nelson

I think that could be an epic cast right there, definitely an impressive list if they could pull it off. My understanding is that you could maybe have a team up with villains such as Davos and Shades, something I don’t believe exists elsewhere. But as these two characters have got a deep background, they could maybe form an allegiance with Tilda who could officially take on her Nightshade persona to help form a Marvel version of an Injustice League! Also, I would like to see characters like Bombshell and maybe Mr. Fish to help bring more obscure characters to this crossover.

In regards to the story, we could see a reflection of the comics where Jeri Hogarth actually is the founder of “Heroes For Hire” and with the funding of Rand Industries, could see the team consist of Danny, Colleen and Misty with them at first fighting Luke. Following this, they could then be bringing him to their side to complete the original duo. Also, to see a massive fight between Heroes For Hire and maybe Villains for Hire (Davos, Shades, Nightshade, Bombshell, Mr. Fish) would be just amazing. We will have to wait and see how this goes.

MARVEL…NETFLIX…the power is in your hands! Clench that fist and make it happen!

What do you think? Do you believe this could work as a show? Do you think there is anyone that should also be included? Please let me know!

‘Luke Cage’ and ‘Iron Fist’ are both available to watch on Netflix.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Rick and Morty Season 3 Episode 8 Review!

‘Morty’s Mind Blowers’

*Some Spoilers Ahead*

We have seen Morty go through many things that have angered, tortured and traumatized him. But what about the moments that REALLY affect him? Well, Rick has got a device which is able to erase Morty’s mind of these experiences and keeps these memories as bulb-like items called “blowers”.

Through the blowers, we learn a lot about the adventures the titular duo have been on which we never got to see and…we also sadly avoid an Interdimensional Cable 3! After having everything known to him by a magic turtle, Morty begs to have it taken out of his head. We then get to see some of the other things that have happened such as Morty being responsible for an innocent man’s death, swapping places with innocent people in a pet store prison and even making an alien doubt his own beliefs.

As the blowers continue, we find that they aren’t all because of Morty’s choices. We also see that the family have also given him some bad times, and then there is Rick…the one who truly f**ked with Morty’s little mind! We find that Rick has caused so much chaos to Morty and then the two begin to fight and they both end up losing their memories completely.

We find out a lot about what has happened to the characters in the stories that weren’t shown in full, this includes one big revelation about their world. While the episode primarily focuses on these two, we learn that Summer has got a vital role within ‘Morty’s Mind Blowers’ and shows she could truly be the smartest out of all of them. Then we also get that great scene at the end which gives Jerry his first role in ages and it’s a truly well made one!

A big inspiration for this was Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind and it also feels like Interdimensional Cable with a Treehouse of Horror twist. As much as I normally enjoy the usual collection of ad-libbed commercials and shows, it was good to get an insight into the adventures and events we never got to see. After seeing this episode, it just throws out more questions and will be a basis for more fan theories.

When you see there were six writers in total for this episode, it was great to see this story was really fleshed out amongst the whole team. Each part or “blower” were indeed well presented and the revelations that come from some of them will indeed change the way you see the show. Justin Roiland, like last week, plays off himself well during his dual role as Rick and Morty. Sarah Chalke’s Beth is also shown to be very much ready to abandon Morty without giving it a second thought, showing it’s not just Morty who has genuinely been affected by Rick over the years.

Going into episode 9 and 10, I start to think I will be upset when the season comes to an end in a fortnight, but Season 3 has been fantastic. I am sure we will get a satisfying pay-off with Evil Morty in control of The Citadel and where the hell is Bird Person Phoenix Person and Tammy? I still think they will combine forces to defeat Rick! Also, as he has only appeared in half the series and in some minor roles, please give us another full episode with Jerry, I miss that loser.

A great episode, a new perspective and truly a great successor to Interdimensional Cable!

Final Rating: 9.5/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Next week, we get to see a bit more from Beth and find out why she has her own world!

Rick and Morty – Season Three Episode Two REVIEW!

‘Rickmancing The Stone’

*Some Mild Spoilers Ahead*

After nearly two years, Rick and Morty is officially back on our TV screens (except for Netflix which seems to be making UK fans really struggle by making us wait 6 more days for the episode). After ‘The Rickshank Rickdemption’ brought back the show with an explosive opener, ‘Rickmancing The Stone’ is the first episode to play with the newly altered equilibrium and get into a fun and crazy story.

With a start that shows Jerry about to leave the Smith household, Summer can’t wait to get away from her dad and Morty is still confused over what to do with his parent’s divorce. Jerry is called a “loser” in the wind (which I am sure we have all called him). Rick, who clearly enjoys having Jerry away from the family, is happy to get back into his adventures with his grandchildren.

The episode takes us to a world that is clearly based on Mad Max (and looks bloody awesome to be fair). It is here that Rick finds himself looking to take some great power from the people, and uses Morty (who looks a bit like Rafael Nadal) to challenge anyone who gets in his way. While Morty is left to vent some of his frustrations about his parents, Summer sees this world as a way for her to escape the problems of home life (and find love with a guy wearing a bucket). But what about Beth, who is stuck at home?

Well, turns out that Rick has kept Morty and Summer away from home for a bit too long this time, but has a great idea to help cover for them and it even convinces Beth that they are home. I don’t want to give too much away, but some of the greatest comedy comes from the scenes back at the house instead of the Mad Max world. There’s a few moments which do drag in the first half of the episode, but the scenes going back and forth between dimensions is where the real laughs develop.

I could make about another 5 pages of notes on this episode, because this is a great episode and it brings back the style that we got used to in season one. Taking place in another world with two stories that are loosely linked. Justin Roiland as usual can entertain us a lot with the back and forth of the two main characters, Spencer Grammer is definitely getting to make Summer a much better character than how she started. Since the middle of Season One, Summer has grown to be a fantastic part of this show and I enjoy every moment she is present.

Overall, this episode is great. The world following the “boom-boom” is one that is visually wonderful and brings some unexpected jokes from the people in that place. The writing is on fine point and proves that the quality stays high even after all this time. I am sure a repeated viewing will make this episode look better, but for now I am looking forward to next week with ‘Pickle Rick’ (can’t believe that is the name of the episode!)

Final rating: 8.5/10

Written By Jonjo Cosgrove

Death Note – First Trailer!

After months of teases and the hype around an adaptation of the popular manga, Death Note is on its way to come out later this year! Death Note is due for release worldwide on Netflix on Friday 25th August 2017. That sounds like a long way away still, but it is only five months to wait. The film stars Nat Wolff, Willem Dafoe and is directed by Adam Wingard (You’re Next, Blair Witch and the Cinemax TV show Outcast). Watch the first trailer now!

When a Death Note falls into the human world, it is picked up by student Light. He sees the book as a way to change the world into a better place from his own eyes as the god-like Kira. Finding the power of life and death in his hands, Light is joined in this crusade by Ryuk, the owner of the Death Note. While many see Kira as a hero, there is one who is determined to bring Kira to justice. Only one man seems to know a way to stop Kira…L!

The original anime series is available on Netflix now, I would recommend it to all. I have loved shows such as Dragonball Z, Attack On Titan and Elfen Lied, but they are all just slightly under par with Death Note. Death Note in my opinion is the greatest anime adaptation I have ever seen and I personally hope that the film will do justice to its source material. The trailer does hint to some familiar panels from both book and anime, and Willem Dafoe sounds brilliant as the shinigami Ryuk. Time will tell if Nat Wolff’s Light can compete with what we have seen before. Let’s hope this won’t be a Dragonball Evolution move (and also hope that Ghost In The Shell is good too).

Death Note is available on Netflix everywhere on 25th August 2017

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Iron Fist: Season One Episode 1-3 review

Am I the only one who has enjoyed this show so far? I am not one to really read others reviews before I write my own, but some people have really slammed this show for a number of reasons. Whether it is down to the casting of Finn Jones as Danny Rand/Iron Fist, the supposed uninspired fight scenes or even just…well everything. But, I have actually enjoyed the show so far. I will avoid as much on the spoiler territory as I can.

Let us start with the casting, and I must say I quite like Finn Jones as lead character Danny Rand. I think there are a few issues with him in these opening episodes, but I can’t pin them on the actor. Finn does make us enjoy our time with Danny without making us feel bad for him, except for episode 3 when he confronts Joy and Ward. I can honestly say that this adaptation is probably one of the most faithful, while still taking a few twists to the original story in a satisfying way. Even having the classic iPod was a nice touch, I do enjoy some Outkast on a TV show. In other casting points, I am enjoying David Wenham as Harold Meachum. He is definitely building himself up to be yet another great villain in the Marvel/Netflix setting. I also do like seeing Jessica Henwick’s Colleen Wing, she takes no shit from anyone. An attitude I think the people behind this show should adopt.

In regards to the racial casting, do these critics read comics or know about its original concept? Danny Rand has always been a white man. Would I have minded if an Asian actor was cast as Danny? No, of course not. I don’t necessarily see it as a bad idea. Would it have really made a major difference to the show? No! I for one am all for diverse casting. Carrie Anne Moss was cast as Jeri Hogarth for the connected world, who in the comics was originally a man! But, this probably actually made the character better. But, that is enough on the cast.

In terms of action, the first few episodes have a number of moments that does bring in some action. There have been no major fight scenes above a few fists being thrown, but I have witnessed a few uses of the legendary Iron Fist (which does have a Dragonball-esque look to it). The best fight so far has come from Jessica Henwick, which I am sure will have ripples in the upcoming episodes of the show. In terms of development, it does definitely slot itself in to the universe with many hints to the shows past and future. Plus, the appearance of Jeri Hogarth and another pre-established character helps bring this new cast into what we already have and know. The writing on the other hand…it’s ok. I think the whole Danny is mad bit was played wrong, but I did enjoy his buddy who helps him in the mental hospital. Though where episode 3 ends, it is truly making me want to watch more (I would have watched it all anyway).

To conclude, I know this was more an analysis and airing some thoughts rather than a review. I have enjoyed this show, it does offer some great moments and the human element is very strong. I do feel Daredevil and Jessica Jones had the better starts, it is worth noting the dynamic on this begins much better than any of the shows that precede this. I feel there will be a real formulaic set up coming soon in regards to the reason the Rand family crashed in the Himalayas. I am enjoying Iron Fist’s arc, but I also really enjoy seeing where Colleen is going. The Meachum family are a bit whiney, but I am sure that like Luke Cage (*spoilers incoming*) I reckon the Hand will fulfil the antagonist side for the show into its second half. Let’s see what episodes 4-8 bring and see where we stand from that point.

Final rating: 8/10

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

TEN BEST LIVE-ACTION MARVEL TV CHARACTER PORTRAYALS

Marvel TV shows have been a big extension to the MCU since Agents Of SHIELD debuted in 2013. With four shows currently in this universe, and a number more still in production, we have got lots to enjoy. There has been some fantastic performances so far in the last three years and I am sure Luke Cage this month will continue the trend. With ABC making a great start with the Agents side of the MCU and Netflix bringing us The Defenders, this list had a great mix of portrayals. Honourable mentions go to Mike Colter’s Luke Cage who narrowly missed the list, though will be right in the Top 10 from the previews of his upcoming series. Elodie Yung giving us a great Elektra really did well and Agent Carter actors James D’Arcy for being Mr Edwin Jarvis and Wynn Everett as she became the villainous Whitney Frost!

10. Deborah Ann Woll – Karen Page (Daredevil)

All heroes need something to keep them grounded and Karen is definitely a character that is needed in the show.Deborah Ann Woll is cast well as the love interest to the title character and is at the centre of the story in both seasons. Karen may not be the toughest character, but she is willing to do all she can to help her friends and fight for justice. Her life changes when she comes to Nelson and Murdoch, but it is her investigation into The Punisher which really shows her worth.

9. Clark Gregg – Agent Phil Coulson (Agents Of SHIELD)

The man who was the backbone to the MCU throughout phase one was warmly welcomed back when talks of a spin-off begun. His death was maybe not liked by many, but there is a lot of good that came from this. First, we got a great mystery which lasted quite a while as to how Coulson came back to life. Clark Gregg embodies Coulson perfectly and he is a fan favourite. For a character that was made especially for the MCU, you can find him in all the different medias of Marvel and I am grateful for how much we get of this brilliant character.

8. Elden Henson – Foggy Nelson (Daredevil)

Every show needs some comic relief, and it works better if they also become the heart of the show. Foggy Nelson, best friend and business partner to Matt Murdoch. Their friendship changes forever when Foggy finds out Matt is actually Daredevil. As a lawyer, Foggy is definitely very resourceful and willing to do all he can to help those he cares about, that includes Matt and Karen. For most of the series, he is a source of humour and a break from the gripping drama in the show. But from the moment he finds a bludgeoned Matt in his apartment, that is when Foggy became his best!

7. Ming-Na Wen – Agent Melinda May (Agents Of SHIELD)

What happens when you get a character that is able to overshadow your main star, you get Ming-Na Wen as Melinda May. Known for her nickname The Cavalry, May is one of the toughest agents in SHIELD history. The character at one point stopped doing missions after something big happens and her life is in tatters. Though she may not be too social with her team, she is very protective and can kick the arse of any person that gets in her way. You wouldn’t want to get in a fight with May, but you would definitely appreciate her assistance if it was needed.

6. David Tennant – Kilgrave (Jessica Jones)

A man who is able to manipulate any person just by talking to them, Kilgrave is indeed a very dangerous character. He hasn’t got super strength, he can’t fly and can’t shoot beams from his hands, but he can control practically anyone. At one time, he was able to bend the will of Jessica Jones for his own gain and she had since lived with the nightmares of her actions. Kilgrave proves numerous times he is not to be messed with and David Tennant brings to the MCU his best performance since starring in Doctor Who.

5. Charlie Cox – Matt Murdoch/Daredevil (Daredevil)

From the first episode, we know that Matt Murdoch has been fighting crime both in and out of the court room for some time. Matt Murdoch is just truly wanting to get justice in his city. After his father died, he wanted to do all he could to protect the innocent. His path leads him to face The Kingpin and later the vigilante The Punisher. Daredevil was one of the first MCU heroes to prove just how vulnerable they can be, seeing Matt an inch from death is really hard to watch, but it may just be the most intriguing thing about the man without fear!

4. Hayley Atwell – Peggy Carter (Agent Carter)

Much like Coulson, Peggy has been a backbone to the MCU for quite some time. Since her debut in Captain America: The First Avenger, she has appeared in other Cap films, a short and in Agent Carter. Taking her role as a founder of SHIELD, Peggy continues her fight against those who could threaten the world while still holding some hope of seeing Steve again. Fighting her way through a sexist 1940’s America, Hayley Atwell gives her greatest performance as she gives the world the first true female hero in the MCU!

3. Jon Bernthal – Frank Castle/The Punisher (Daredevil)

Anyone who is a fan of The Punisher character will know that it’s not been easy to make this character appeal to an audience (Looking at 1989 and 2008 on this one). But, Jon Bernthal not only does a great job, but he steals the show every time he appears. He is more than a match for Daredevil, he has one of the greatest revenge stories in the comic book world and he honestly believes he is doing the right thing. Tormented by the death of his family, his path for vengeance and personal pain won over everyone…no wonder he is getting his own TV series!

2. Krysten Ritter – Jessica Jones (Jessica Jones)

For anyone who has seen Krysten in any other show, you will know her versatile she can be. Appearing in shows such as Breaking Bad and Don’t Trust The B In Apartment 23 was proof of her dedication, Jessica Jones is no exception. The character has not had the best of upbringings (how many superheroes actually did?), but she still tries to do what’s best. After her initial altercation with Kilgrave, Jessica struggles to get her life back together. She becomes a private detective and also has some powers too, not someone to mess with. PTSD plays a big part in the show, and to see the suffering Jessica has been through and goes through in the first season, you can’t help but feel for her. Sure she is drinking a lot, having sex with someone she is investigating and generally not caring about a lot of people. Inside, Jessica Jones is a character I feel the most for as she seems to put on such a strong front to forget her past.

1. Vincent D’Onofrio – Wilson Fisk/Kin gpin (Daredevil)

Coming up with a villain like Kingpin was a masterstroke for Marvel Comics, seeing him on screen is even better. Michael Clarke Duncan made the character fantastic in the 2003 Daredevil movie, but Vincent D’Onofrio made for a superb addition to the cast. We see him gradually in the first few episodes, but we know who he is immediately when we finally meet him. Wilson Fisk starts as a very private businessman who eventually comes to the light when he looks to “save” his city. We also get to see what made him into the Kingpin by seeing flashbacks to his childhood and also watching him fall in love with this to-be wife Vanessa. Don’t let this sensitive side fool you, he will still beat you to death (thinking of a certain car door scene). Definitely a powerful character and the best portrayal from Marvel’s TV line-up.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove

Jessica Jones. Four Things We Need To See

Jessica Jones is due to debut on Netflix all around the world over the next 24 hours. Starring Krysten Ritter in the title role, Jessica Jones is the latest character to debut to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the first female to headline a live-action Marvel property in live action form. Unlike the previous series Daredevil, Jessica Jones is a much newer property and a less known hero. Her origin story is one which is darker than many of those you may know. She starts her career as a superhero after an accident that kills her family, she was known as Jewel and was inspired to be a hero and use her abilities because of Spider-Man. She later retires from being a superhero after a very traumatic experience and begins her own private investigation services. By the looks of it, we will see a similar origin story take place in the new show. But, this is what we need to see in the 13 episodes that are about to be released. Warning: There may be some spoilers.

1 Jessica Jones needs to still lose everything

Jessica Jones obtains her abilities originally due to an accident involving a military convoy which contained radioactive chemicals which killed her family and gave her the superpowers to which she used in her time as a hero. Though it seems cliché to do the “hero loses family” story, it really is the origin of Jessica Jones and needs to be told. Plus, where Peter Parker and Matt Murdoch are both decent humans, Jessica enjoys drinking and swearing and not using her origin towards her heroic purposes (and she has no appreciation for alarm clocks).

2 The Purple Man has to be the top villain

Zebediah Kilgrave AKA The Purple Man is a dangerous villain. He is billed as the main villain in the show, but we need to see that he is given the same life as his comic alter-ego. The reason Vincent D’Onofrio worked so well as Wilson Fisk is because people could believe him as a serious villain and emphasise with him as he was much more than just a mean man with a pendent for others pain. The power of bending the will of others and controlling minds is definitely something that needs to be explored. Hopefully this will allow Doctor Who lovers to finally see a different side to David Tennant.

3 Luke Cage should only be a supporting character until we really get to see him

To see Mike Colter will help expand this area of the MCU further by introducing us to Luke Cage before his own show debuts. The only problems with this will be how his show will then fit into the timeline (will his show be set before Jessica Jones?) and also will we learn too much about him before his own show? I don’t think it will be a problem, but I would like to see Luke Cage is staying as a supporting cast member (and maybe a cameo from Charlie Cox as Daredevil?).

4 Don’t be afraid of referencing the MCU

As we saw in Daredevil, the show wasn’t afraid to make references to the films (though minimal and infrequent). I would be happy to see a few more little nods to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, such as the fact that Jessica’s father worked for Tony Stark or even some connection still to Spider-Man. I am not saying for the show to be soaked in references (Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. has got a lot to answer for), but never forget where you came from. Plus, teasing The Defenders is worth a go.

Jessica Jones will be available on Netflix worldwide from Friday 20th November 2015. Luke Cage will debut in 2016.

Bojack Horseman Season Two. The Netflix Hit returns…

BoJack Horseman continued the trend of top shows for Netflix by providing a series of funny, edgy content which kept many well entertained. With Will Arnett voicing Bojack, his gruff tones perfectly match the character of an actor who has passed his prime and seems to resent his life choices. Formerly an actor in a popular sitcom, he has since fallen from grace and struggles for work. Joining him into season two is his slacker friend Todd (Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul), Bojack’s agent Princess Carolyn (Amy Sedaris), his friend and love interest Diane Nguyen (Alison Brie) and his rival and husband to Diane, Mr. Peanutbutter (Paul F. Tompkins). With BoJack about to take the lead in his dream film role, things are looking up for the horse/actor. Also, look out for Lisa Kudrow playing a new love interest for BoJack in this season.

The show will premiere on Netflix worldwide on Friday 17th July.

Written by Jonjo Cosgrove