A Critique of Ben 10: Omniverse

So last week a friend of mine asked me if I've been watching the newest Season / Chapter of the Ben 10 Animaited Series. "Ben 10: Omniverse" I told him "Of course I am!" I've been watching Ben 10 since it's inception and have been watching it religiously. I wasn't too fond of it in the beginning except for the fact he could turn into my favorite Alien they had created at the time. "Humongasaur!

As episodes passed the story got really good and as seasons passed we got the progression of Ben and his friends growing up. Something you don't see very much of in cartoons these days. Cartoon characters don't usually just grow up. I got really into Ben 10: "Alien Force" and then of course "Ultimate Alien". It was just getting better and better. Each of the next chapters got a bit more serious, the animation style changed to a more mature way of making the characters appear like young adults, and Ben was acting older himself.

New Ben looks different, and not in a good way

Which brings us now to Omniverse. I was excited to see it, but was then shocked at the animation style. I was like, "wait what's going on?" And it showed Ben young again, I was like 'Oh it's just a flashback." Flash forward and the animation style hadn't changed. Ben was the same age but appeared younger looking like his child counterpart, everything was super confusing. I was thinking "why did they go back to the old style? I'm so confused!"

This is the new Kevin? "Are you serious?" 

The new styles of Gwen and Kevin were horrible looking, I liked it better when they looked like real college age kids. Now Kevin looks like a high school Punk and Gwen a book nerd. They even went as far as to change her look yet again mid way through the season to make her look even younger and nerdier. I just didn't get it.

The new Omitrix is a lot like the old one, it even looks less impressive on looks alone. It looks like a regular digital watch. The new aliens although cool looking are far from impressive and some are just modified abilities of other pre existing aliens. Not to mention some of the new animation styles of aliens past are not good. The aliens can't evolve either. I was most disappointed with the new look of "spider monkey". They were ruining everything I grew to love. Why would you abruptly change back to your old ways if fans love the changes you already made?

Not to mention, now that Ben was going to be on his own in this one, he was more immature than ever and dressing it too. No more Ben 10 jacket, back to the t-shirt and yes, as if he wasn't trendy enough he has a hoodie now lol.

Also, they introduce Rook as his new partner. A grad of the plumber academy and an alien as well. I thought "oh no, not a new character, what else could go wrong?" He's essentially Ben's babysitting and taking up most of what was Grandpa Max's screen time or the time Kevin and Gwen were with them. Writing them out of 99 percent of the season was a bad idea. They were just beginning to solidify as a team.

Apparently this is what college does to young girls

Speaking of changes, did you know Gwen has an alternate form now like her grandma? When did she learn that in college? Would have appreciated a bit of back story on that one.

Anyway, back on topic about Rook. As much as I disliked him at first he's really grown on me and probably become my favorite character, probably because all other characters have suffered so much through all these back peddling changes.

Rook has a truck that turns into a ship. Which reminds me, I miss "Ship" the little dog like alien that could turn into anything.  Rook also has a weapon that can turn into just about anything he needs at the present moment. It's the swiss army knife of weapons. I want one!

Despite all of Omniverse's poor changes, Rook is a win!

Also, the great thing about Rook is the humor that he unintentionally delivers. He doesn't grasp earth sayings and therefore will often respond in some hilarious way or mispronounce what he is supposed to say in the situation.

I was told this is the final evolution of Ben 10 but I'm sure if they wanted to, they could take it a step further, especially because they've gone backwards so much this time around.

I'm seriously hoping there is a point to the back peddling, maybe Ben gets turned back into a kid or something? Does he get sent back in time? Your guess is as good as mine.

Anyway, I have to say story wise, with the exception of Rook, this evolution of Ben is a de-evolution and I don't like it very much. But I keep watching to see what Rook will do next, if any twists pop up in story or anything story wise in general that might be vital to know shows up.

So that's my breakdown of Ben 10: Omiverse. What do you think of the show? Leave a comment or Tweet Me :)

Until next time, this has been a Geek Critique.

-Paul

Transformers 4 Announced!

Image by ComingSoon.net

First off, let me apologize for not posting last week to those of you who read my blog weekly. But Thanksgiving plans sort of got in the way of all that. But as you can see I didn't stray for very long, here I am. I'm Back! Now on to this week's topic.

Another Transformers Movie has been announced. Not only that, but due to some awesome Geek reporting by my long time friend and fellow geek Silas Lesnick at ComingSoon.net a poster has been revealed. Not only that but an addition to the cast has been announced as well.

It's rumored Mark Whalberg will be joining the Transformers cast. Now whether this means he's the new lead and Shia is stepping down or not has yet to be determined. A lot of fans seem to be excited over this though and are starting to jump the gun already saying he's going to be amazing.
I wouldn't hold my breath on this. Whalberg is indeed an amazing award winning actor but there are many factors to consider.

1.) Adding new people means writers might be running out of ideas here. In my opinion it kind of disrupts the flow because we've had the same people for the last three movies and we've been used to that. Even when Shia had this new love interest to me it just didn't seem the same in the third movie.

2.) wasn't 3 supposed to be the last one? I could have sworn Michael Bay was calling it quits on the Transformers franchise to start concentrating on wrecking another child love of mine. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Oh excuse me...ALIEN turtles. Bay even went on record to say he HATED the transformers. Blasphemy!

3.) What's left? Megatron has been the main threat in all three movies, he's been stopped all three times. What's left? According to the above poster he looks to be the main threat again. What's going to be different this time? Fans are wanting to see the Dinobots and so am I but if I know bay, hes not going to really give a crap because you can't model a GMC Truck after a Dinobot. He's looking for big time money sponsors here.

These Movies have gotten progressively worse. First one was awesome, second was a joke, and the third one was way too drawn out. I lost interest the last hour of the movie. I shudder to think what 4 will be like. So Whalberg will either be the saving grace for the franchise or the nail in the coffin.

As a dedicated Transformers fan I can only hope for the best. And hope for Dinobots! Just don't give me a robotic version of Jurassic Park!

What are your thoughts on a 4th movie being made? What do you think of Mark Whalberg's involvement? And what do you think the new movie poster signifies? Let me know your thoughts in a comment below or tweet me @PSiege1 

Also Don't forget to visit my friend Silas' Twitter @silaslesnick, he's always got the scoop on all your Geek News needs and is an excellent Journalist.

As always, thanks for reading, until next time this has been a Geek Critique from yours truly.

-Paul

Playing a Role in the Marvel Universe

Core Book Cover

This week I'm going to touch on the topic of Roleplaying games. For those of you who may not know what a Roleplaying game is: You get character sheets, roll dice and add skill or ability points and act out your character in an improv like manner. One person is the game master who throws challenges at the players, you roll the dice, and that combined with your acting skills either lets you succeed or fail.

If you've ever heard of Dungeons & Dragons all roleplaying games are similar to that. Before the days of World of Warcraft on your computer screen we used our imaginations. There are lots of different characters and Universes to choose from. Dungeons & Dragons to Robotech. 

The game I want to highlight today is a game by Marvel Comics called "Marvel Heroic Roleplaying" There is a Core Book / Players Guide with a basic adventure and a handful of characters to choose from. There is the option to create your own character but its strongly suggested to choose one of the character pre-designed in the book. 

You don't have to worry about starting at the bottom as a superhero and can get right in the thick of things causing as much damage as the bad guys. You can be Spider-Man if you wanted to and have all his abilities right off the bat. You can think of what you'd want to do if you were Peter Parker and change whats written in the comics. 

This is currently a game I'm playing with a handful of good friends and thus why I wanted to highlight this specific game. I think more should know about how fantastic it really is. The dice system and stats aren't too hard to grasp, though can be easily confused on occasion, your character is never really seen as weak and success is easier than it is in other tabletop games. 

You can come from all sorts of different backgrounds and create original partnerships and teams. Some characters stats even improve when they aren't alone. So having fun with others is encouraged. Every few months another book has been planned to follow the core book with more characters and more adventures.

Civil War Book Cover

Recently "Civil War" was just released. A huge event that took place in the Marvel Universe where it was Team Captain America vs Team Iron Man on if a new Mutant Registration Act should be passed. Iron Man was FOR and Captain America was AGAINST. This divided the Marvel Universe and it was Heroes vs Heroes. Even some Villains were on the sides of Heroes. With this book you can relive the political drama and make a story that could be happier...or not. It all depends on how you play it out. instead of Iron Man or Captain America setting the stage it's whoever you choose to be, you are the star. 

Other such important stories that took place in the comics are highlighted and based your actions can be changed. In a few months the next book set to be released I believe is the "Secret Invasion"If you are a true Marvel Geek you know what that's about. 

We have just begun launching the Civil War Campaign in my group. My Character is "Thing" from Fantastic 4. My other group members? Ms. Marvel, Iron Fist, and we just added on Dr. Strange and Rogue from the X-Men. 

So what have I done as "The Thing" so far? I've traveled through dimensions, traveled to the Savage Land, and claimed Thor's Hammer. Can you imagine Thing with that giant hammer? If he wasn't dangerous before he sure is now. 

"Thing" Character Sheet, Taken from Core Book 

Originally Ben Grimm wasn't even part of Civil War, he got up and left the country. Which is perfect. I, as the player get to write the "What If" story if Ben Grimm had stayed and played a role, or even if he took center stage during the conflict. Next session both sides will start to persuade heroes and villains alike to join their side. Thing is currently FOR The Registration Act. Why? He doesn't want anyone innocent hurt and for heroes to be trained and responsible. However his views could still change at any time based on what happens, other players influences, etc. 

So I ask you to leave a comment. Is Ben Grimm doing the right thing? (no pun intended) Should he abandon the cause? or stick with it? When he begins to scout, which heroes or villains should he ask to stand by his side in the war? Who can he trust? Your suggestions are appreciated on which hero/villain should be approached. Don't forget to tell me WHY they are a good idea, every character has to have some usefulness in the long run. 

In short, This game is fun, not too hard to learn, gives the player a lot of power and ability to change the universe around them. This game is an A+ in my book. I highly suggest trying it. 

Look forward to your recruitment suggestions, post them here or tweet them to me @PSiege1

Until next time, this has been a Geek Critique :)  

A review of Ghost Rider 2

Yes, I realize I'm a little late on the whole watching of ghost rider. OK, A LOT! But if you are me you either don't have the finances for $10.50 a ticket when blockbusters come out, can't see 3D movies, or don't have the travel means to see a movie and get to watch everyone enjoy themselves while you are stuck at home wishing you could go.

With that explanation out of the way, here's what I thought. The movie itself looked like a completely different one from start to finish. I read somewhere this was supposed to be their way of doing a reboot since the first didn't go over so well. Personally I loved the first one so I don't understand people's complaints. I guess that's why I felt somewhat confused from the beginning of the film.

***Spoilers Don't read if you haven't seen Ghost Rider 2***

Totally disliked the Danny Ketch tie in. Making him half demon instead of a potential new rider in the third film pretty much ruins the end of Johnny Blaze if there ever is to be one in the future. Would be nice if he was given rider powers instead because he made a similar deal that Johnny did. I realize things will be different because this is a movie but it still makes more sense than what they did.

What was strange and creepy at first, but eventually grew on me, was the scare factor in this film. There  definitely was more of a horror aspect in this film which I thought was good. Ghost Rider should always keep everyone on their toes. Plus seeing Cage flip out every two seconds trying to control the rider from unleashing was pretty amusing.

Didn't really like the look of the Rider this time around, although more realistic in many ways I thought the skull looked oddly pointy, and I miss the shiny black jacket with spikes. This one looked old and crusty with not enough flash to it.

Very saddened by how the penance stare was played off this time around. He looks into their eyes and they explode? Liked the old way when they just appeared as a soul-less body.

Miss the flashy bike too. This one looked old and rickety. What can I say, I guess I'm a fan of flashy when it comes to being a biker, in my opinion that's what makes an awesome biker.

One improvement that I applaud is they included more of Cage's voice when he actually was Ghost Rider. So I give them credit for attempting more realism of the character this time around.

As far as supporting characters, none of them really impressed me, until I saw Christopher Lambert as one of the Monks. That was amazing.

Overall I'd say the movie was alright, there were parts I loved, like when Ghost Rider turned a whole Machine into a fiery blaze as if it was one giant bike. But there were a lot of parts where it lagged too and the main villain (especially the actor) was not peaking my interest as much as the first movie villain.

So it didn't quite live up to expectations after all this waiting. But it did surprise me in many ways and introduced me to looking at the character differently which is always good. Still I'll always be a bigger fan of the first movie and I hope there is a third film to cap it off.

DC Nation ushers in a new season of Green Lantern TAS

If you haven't been watching Cartoon Network lately, you wouldn't know there have been two new episodes of Green Lantern the animated series

With the Red Lanterns now soundly defeated, Hal Jordan picks up right where he left off only to have his life further dramatically changed. His long time love Carol has dumped him, not because she doesn't love him anymore, but because she knows their life together would never stand the test of time with his pressures of being a Green Lantern. With that being said, she also fires Hal knowing full well he cannot be both a Lantern and Full time test pilot. Poor Hal, Fired and Dumped in one day.

Guy from GL TAS 

With Hal on the brink of quitting the lanterns to go back to his old life we finally get introduced to another main character of the Green Lantern Corps. None other than Guy Gardner! While Hal was off playing in space with Killawog and Razor, Guy was named the new Guardian of Earth. Sorry Hal Earth has a new protector. Geeze, fired twice in one day and dumped.  Then to our surprise, Hal gets promoted to honor guard. He now patrols all of space. No pay raise though lol. And still no Carol....For now at least

Tohmar-rae makes a reappearance and now surely to be around for awhile. He as well is part of the honor guard and has taken a liking to Hal. Enter the newest threat. The Manhunters. Surely to be the main threat of this season. Killawog and their sidekick ship Aiya rejoin Hal and Tomahr for another jetset journey to destroy all remaining Manhunters, only to discover the person in charge of this fiendish plot. I'll leave it there. No big spoilers for everyone.

Thoughts on this season so far? Love the way they have introduced Guy. He has a great portrayal in the series and is very classic "Guy" in a lot of ways. I loved the "Frienemy" type chemistry he and Hal had with one another. Dietrich Bader was a perfect casting choice for Guy as well. I hope we get to see more of guy later on, I'd like to say hes my favorite so far but in all honesty there is something I've come to love about each lantern. Usually I pick one character to stick by but it just goes to show what good casting, stories, and scripts can do for a character.

Is that a Green Lantern Limited Edition PKE Meter? 

Tomar's portrayal reminded me that of an alien Egon Spengler from Ghostbusters with repeated phrases such as "I'm detecting a low energy ion pulse" Are we busting ghosts or Manhunters? I mean, just look at this picture of him, its a GL version of a PKE meter!

Chip can't talk, but he can still kick Hal Jordan's butt any day of the week.

We also get to see "Chip" our squirrely little lantern kick Hal's butt then help him out later. Most likely not the last time we've seen him either as him and Hal became fast friends. 

I keep looking forward to the next episode of this series every week because something has always come out of left field to surprise you in the best way possible. 

Not once did I think "I can miss one episode" or "That episode was boring" anything and will more than likely be answered later, a good tease for the time being. 

If you haven't seen the series yet, watch it from the beginning, it won't seem like much at first but there is superb growth throughout the storyline and the poor CGI is forgivable with all the other things it has going for it.  

Here's a video showing you the opening title sequence to the show.

If you HAVE seen the series, what do you think of the new season so far? And anything you are hoping to see?

As always I ask you to leave a comment, or Tweet me on what you thought of this week's critique topic. Tweet me  @PSiege1

Until next time, remember....

"Sometimes its better to ask for forgiveness later, than to ask permission first"

- Hal Jordan, Green Lantern Season 2 Episode 2

Happy Mutation Day!

This first Post of this Blog is very symbolic for me. Not only is this a genesis of new beginnings as you follow me along on my journey of all things Geeks love, but you will see what I am most passionate about in the Geek World. 

Secondly, We will cover the main topic of this post. The premier of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on Nickelodeon which took place today. I will reflect, express my loves, my dislikes etc. about the first episode. I grew up with the Turtles and it was probably the first geeky thing I ever loved. 

I, for as long as I can remember have always been deemed a Geek. I was never any good at sports. I watched a lot of TV, and my earliest memories were of Comic Books of Superheroes, G.I. Joe, Transformers, and Ghostbusters. I still have not grown out of these passions I grew up on and probably never will. I'm a big kid! 

So prepare for lots of critiques involving things like Superheroes and the like. 

Now that we are done with the formalities of introduction. On to our critique... or to put this simpler, my opinion of the TMNT premier. There has been a very long building period up until this point. 

Many fans will have their own opinions but this is the way I see it. Growing up in the 80s you hope your childhood to stay in tact. But Nickelodeon is not the first company that comes to mind with you think TMNT. I was rather quite scared about the acquiring of the franchise. 

I saw very early on sketches and it looked as if weapons were being changed. I was like "Oh Hell No they didn't!" Thankfully these changes never went through. But I was still afraid of the content being overly cartoony. The turtles are chillin with Spongebob now. 

Now, I know what you are saying. "It's a cartoon, it should be cartoony." Animation has come a long way though. There are cartoons for adult audiences now. They needed to draw a line where it was just childish enough without being considered stupid by adults. 

There was another Turtles series before this one and after the 80s. era. They did a great job blending the old fashioned 80s with the hardcore comics that the turtles originally stemmed from. 

Nickelodeon's style definitely goes more 80s, right down to the theme song and intro. Accurate, yet spoiled by a rap remix blended with it. Still, I think it will grow on me like fungus. 

The turtles have their own unique look with little details. Leo has white scar marks on his face, Raph has a crack in his shell, and Mikey has Ginger like freckles on his face expressing his true child-like nature.  

Speaking of child-like nature, Nickelodeon has taken the term "Teenage" literally, and tapped into the fact they are all only 15 years old. So they argue like little kids a lot. But they can also be smart mouthed as well like teens tend to be. Adults can relate to the constant sarcasm. They have also updated their catchphrases a bit. No longer will Mikey scream "Cowabunga" now it's "Booyakasha!" 

The voice cast for this time around is Jason Biggs (American Pie) as Leo, Sean Astin (Rudy) as Raph, Greg Cipes (Teen Titans) as Mikey, and Robert Paulsen as Donnie (Rob is actually the original 80s Raph) 

If you are a turtles fan from the 80s you can relate to the headache I was getting hearing Raph's voice come from Donnie's mouth. Why they chose to do this is beyond me. However, its still great to see Nick was smart enough to connect some nostalgia.

Rob is putting a new spin on Donnie. No longer is he the anti-social smarty pants. Now he's compassionate of others, often seen as Raph's reason to cause trouble, and is lovelorn for the reinventing of April O'Neil. 

Leo is same old Leo, obsessed with leading, duty and honor, but now this time in a more child like sense bowing down to fictional heroes on tv like we all did as a kid. I liked that. 

Raph still has an attitude as always, but hes less aggressive this go around and is more sarcastic. I'm sure Nick wasn't too fond of a violent Raph. 

Mikey is more kid like than ever. He is the true epitome of your bratty little brother, and it's pretty hysterical. 

 However, it's impossible for me to take Leo seriously at all. Hearing Jason Biggs' voice you are just waiting for an American Pie moment to happen any second. 

Sean Astin surprised me greatly! He's an excellent Raph and at first I thought theres no way he could hack it. Glad to be proven wrong. 

As for Rob, again, I wrestle with my feelings over him taking the voice of Donnie, but with great voice talent like his I know   he will take Donnie into unexplored territory. There can only be growth for this turtle. 

The story is great, there is a more sense of family from the very beginning. The turtles don't even know what pizza is until half way through so this is a true reboot. The series starts with them going topside for the very first time. April is the same age as them so shes not a reporter yet. She seems to be flirting with Don a bit, He fell for her from the very start. 

The Krangs are featured as alien invade robots, so this is reminiscent less of the 80s version with only one Krang. A new villain is created, one never seen anywhere in past series or comics. 

After an hour premier and some antics and laughs by the four the Shredder is in the shadows and about to make his debut next week. 

There is so much potential in this series, I look forward to waking up Saturday mornings once again, just like old times! 

Here's a sample of the first episode 

Thanks for reading, don't forget to leave a comment and stay tuned for another Geek Critique by me. 

-Paul