Tag: Black Panther

The Geekscape ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ Special With Ian Kerner!

by Jonathan

‘Avengers: Infinity War’, arguably the biggest movie event of all time, is out and we’ve all seen it (and if not, don’t listen because MAJOR SPOILER WARNINGS)! And after seeing all the characters and plotlines of this 2 and a half hour epic, we’re sure you’ve got a ton of questions! What was Doctor Strange’s plan? Who lived? Who didn’t? How will Marvel bring some of our favorite heroes back? What’s in store for us with Avengers 4? Where does Iron Man go from here? How does Captain America rebuild the Avengers? Who is stronger than Thor? Who is Captain Marvel? What does this mean for ‘Ant-Man and The Wasp’? Luckily, it’s ALL ANSWERED HERE and by none other than our own Ian Kerner! So sit back and assemble because this episode is loaded!

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The Geekscape ‘Black Panther’ Special With Ian Kerner!

by Jonathan

After this past weekend, ‘Black Panther’ isn’t just a movie! It’s a full blown movement! Seriously, it seems like we’ve been waiting for this character to get his own film for a long time and now that it’s here there’s a lot to talk about! You know how we do these Geekscape Specials so SPOILER WARNING as Ian Kerner and I sit down to talk about Marvel’s latest. What worked (and didn’t work) in bringing these characters to the screen? Is Killmonger the greatest villain in the MCU? What does this movie mean for the upcoming Avengers: Infinity War? What Black Panther comic book runs set the stage for the film or are great jumping on points for new readers? And we also answer YOUR questions! Enjoy!

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Geekscape Movie Reviews: Black Panther

by MCDave

Ryan Coogler’s career has been off to an enviable start ever since his 2013 debut feature Fruitvale Station, where he told the true story of a 22 year-old unarmed African American named Oscar Grant who was wrongly killed by a police officer on New Year’s Eve 2008. Coogler teamed with a young, budding talent named Michael B.Jordan, and the two have never parted ways ever since. Coogler went on to direct the well-received Creed, also starring Michael B. Jordan, and now they both cross paths again in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s 18th installment, Black Panther.

Many centuries ago a meteor containing Vibranium, one of the universe’s strongest metals, crashed into the continent of Africa. Since then the metal has been used by the people of Wakanda to develop weapons far beyond the capabilities of any first-world countries on Earth, forcing Wakanda to hide itself from the rest of the world. The civilization’s new ruler, T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman), also known as Black Panther, is challenged for his throne by a ruthless entity (Michael B. Jordan) who threatens the harmonious and secretive lifestyle of the Wakandi people.

In what has become a regular occurrence among the critics, Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther was been immediately labeled as another whopping success for the MCU. And while this latest entry into the expansive universe is far different from any of its predecessors, both in style and structure, this refreshing and unfamiliar journey breeds its own host of shortcomings. Boasting a central theme of carving out your own legacy, T’Challa becomes tasked with valiantly claiming the throne of Wakanda immediately following his father’s death. But as doubt creeps into his own mind as to whether or not he’s capable of leading with the same effectiveness as the previous king, T’Challa’s once undisputed rise to power quickly becomes challenged by a powerful outsider. This Lion King-esque tale aptly develops its central character well, transforming him from a skeptical “prince” into a confident king, however the film’s many other complementary elements aren’t nearly as effective. T’Challa’s tip-toeing romance with Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and his instantaneous falling out of favor with W’Kabi (Get Out‘s Daniel Kaluuya) are riddled with hokiness and discontent. Moreover, CIA Agent Ross (Martin Freeman) proves a rather meaningless inclusion while the film’s running-time continues to pile on in this thrill-less excursion. And where the MCU has unmistakably built a cinematic powerhouse through mind-numbing action sequences and rapid-fire humor, Black Panther remains short on laughs and bogged down by distractingly-bad CGI. Finally, to director Ryan Coogler’s credit, he conjures up a memorable villain alongside his collaborative staple Michael B. Jordan, one who succeeds on the shoulders of a deep-rooted complexity that the story crafts extremely well. Yet, despite an admirable ability at building meaningful lead characters, Black Panther stands as a mawkish marathon of a journey that fails to entertain as well as it ultimately needs to.

Grade: 3 /5

For other reviews, trailers and movie lists visit MCDAVE’s host site

The Teaser Trailer For ‘Black Panther’ Is Finally Here!

by The_acz

After 25 years of trying to get made, Black Panther has finally gotten its long awaited teaser trailer. The teaser features some beautiful shots of Wakanda, as well as some nice shots of T’Challa, the Black Panther (played by Chadwick Boseman).

Ever since his role in Civil War, people have been anxious for the character to finally get his own solo film. Or will it? Slight Spoilers from Civil War if you haven’t watched it. We all know that Steve Rogers and Bucky are hiding out in Wakanda, so it’s very likely, if not certain, that they’ll appear in the movie.

Marvel definitely isn’t pulling any punches with the cast. The trailer starts with Everett K. Ross (played by Martin Freeman with an American accent!?) questioning a chained man, who tells him about the hidden country of Wakanda. The Black Panther (Boseman), and his trusted warrior Zuri (Whitaker), are up against a host of villains Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o), Erik Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan), and Okoye (Danai Gurira).

As if the glamor shots of Wakanda weren’t enough, the snippets of fight scenes show that this is definitely going to be action packed, while still giving some insight into the secretive culture of Wakanda.

The Black Panther is scheduled to debut on February 16,2018, which in our opinion, can’t come soon enough.

What did you think about the trailer? Have a look and let us know in the comments below!

‘Black Panther’ Poster Released – Teaser Trailer to Follow!

by Courtney Dossett

The Black Panther peaked my interest in his debut in Captain America: Civil War,  and I am beyond excited for the Black Panther movie slated to come out next February. We got an unexpected look at the new poster for the movie this morning ahead of the release of the teaser trailer tonight.

Take a minute to savor that eye candy, we can wait.

 

Yes. Please. I’m not as familiar with the Marvel Universe as I could be, but I was instantly taken with Chadwick Boseman’s portrayal of the Black Panther; you could feel how close he was with his father, how much he cared about his country, his intense hatred for the Winter Soldier. This movie has a stunning cast (Lupita Nyong’o and Forest Whitaker to name a few!), and I can’t wait to see more about this movie tonight when the trailer drops (if you’re into sportsball, the trailer debuts at 6 PM PT during the NBA finals game).

 

What do you think about this poster? Let us know in the comments below!

 

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

👎 – Skip, read at your own risk
👌 – Okay, not great, not bad, you might find something to like here
💪 – Great, highly recommended

DC

We have a quiet week in the DC Universe with Rebirth taking a week off. I didn’t jump into anything but the latest issue of Dark Knight III…

👌 Dark Knight III – The Master Race #5

I haven’t been a big fan of Dark Knight III, however, this issue is probably my favourite so far. Much like Nolan’s Dark Knight Rises, this doesn’t feel like it’s a Batman story, in fact, it feels much more like Snyder’s Man Of Steel. I wouldn’t say the story is stronger in this issue than the previous ones, but it was just a lot of fun seeing Kubert’s take on all the different characters of the DC Universe (Aquaman, Flash, etc.). I don’t think this book is ever going to earn must read status, or be on a lot of Best of 2016 lists, but there is some enjoyment to be had if you go into it with an open mind.

Marvel

Taking a much needed break from Civil War II…

👌 Black Panther #3

This is a title that lends itself to being read in trade. This book goes much deeper than what’s on the surface and, to be honest, I haven’t given Coates’ writing the time and thought it deserves. Even if you aren’t analyzing all the great writing, Stelfreeze’s stellar art ensures you are going to enjoy this title from issue to issue.

👌 Spider-Man #5

This might be the book with the most obvious tie in to Civil War II and yet it isn’t included as a Civil War II book!? What’s going on at Marvel!? The ending leaves us thinking that Spider-Man’s identity is going to be playing a crucial role as Civil War II develops. Spider-Man continues to be enjoyable read but nothing more. Seriously though, I saw more Civil War II tie in with this than any other Marvel Civil War II tie-in to date.

👌 Uncanny X-Men #9

The Archangel portion of Apocalypse Wars continues in Uncanny X-Men #9. From big action pieces to basic character expressions, I’m really starting to dig Ken Lashley’s art. Bunn’s writing is solid. Remember, you can ignore the Apocalypse Wars logo on these books, as there is essentially zero overlap. If you like Magneto, Mystique, Psylocke, Sabretooth, or Archangel this is the book for you, if you’re into other X-Men you’ll probably want to look elsewhere.

👌 Extraordinary X-Men #11

The X-Men continue to battle Apocalypse’s new horsemen in Extraordinary X-Men #11. I pretty much have the same feelings towards this book as Uncanny. If you’re a fan of Ramos, you’re going to love his art in this. Lemire’s writing is pretty tight. It’s just a matter if you are interested in the characters or not. We have Storm, Iceman, Jean Grey, Magik, Logan, you interested in them, this book is for you, otherwise, you’ll want to look at a different X-Men title.

💪 Captain America – Steve Rogers #2

Honestly, I probably like this series more because of how many people are complaining about it. In a time where Marvel’s mainstay characters are all being replaced, I’m not going to complain about any Steve Rogers story. This issue explains what happened to Roger’s to bring him to the side of Hyrda and I’m digging it. When all is said and done, I think this is going to be a great Captain America story.

Image Comics

💪 Outcast Vol. 2 and Vol. 3

If you are a long-time reader you’d know we discussed the first volume a few months ago. Despite finding it confusing initially, by the end of the volume I was into the book and wanted more… I just never went and got more. Well, after getting all caught up on Cinemax’s Outcast, I couldn’t wait to find out what happens next so I went and read the next two volumes. These books are a lot of fun and are full of plenty of “Holy F” moments. If you are watching Outcast (and you should be!) and want more, you’ll love the comics, if you just want to watch the story unfold on television too, I don’t blame you. Both are great!

Book of the Week

Nothing really stood out this week, so I have to give it to Outcast! Whether it’s the comics, the television show, or both, you have to check this series out!

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That’s all for this week, come back next week to discuss the rebirth of The Justice League, more Civil War II, and a bunch of other great comics!

Hey, who else is digging the new Blink-182 album!?

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads

by Karson

Welcome to Weekly Reads! It’s your little dose of comic book goodness that focuses on some aspect of my comic book reading!

Oh boy, oh boy, a ton of books we are reading came out this week. Let’s jump into them!

Ongoing Reads

Black Panther #2 hit shelves, and I think I’m in a minority in thinking that this series is nothing special so far. Perhaps all the hype of Ta-Nehisi Coates penning it caused me to set some high expectations for the series that it just isn’t living up to for me. It seems the series is going to focus on a few characters; T’Challa of course, as well Shuri (his sister), Ayo (member of T’Challa’s royal guard) and probably a couple more. The problem in these first two issues is that the book jumps from setting to setting without giving us a chance to connect with the characters, after two issues I am invested in no one. I’m not jumping ship yet, but this is a tough book for me to recommend. Now, onto a book that I can’t recommend enough!

The Fix #2 is out and it picks up right where #1 left off. This series is just so damn entertaining. If you weren’t around when we discussed the first issue, the series is basically about two robbers who have a day job being cops, and you won’t believe the ways they use that to their advantage. The situations and character interactions that writer Nick Spencer has come up with are laugh-out-loud funny throughout the second issue. On the opposite side of the spectrum, he continues to build up how sadistic and unstable the series’ villain is shaping up to be. Guys. Gals. This is a must-read series!

I am so into this Mighty Morphin Power Rangers series. It’s so damn good. I grew up with the show, so I’m probably a little biased but this book holds up in ways the show doesn’t anymore. Prasetya’s art is phenomenal. His panels are so clean and the characters borderline on being manga-like but not? His work with the mystical elements (Rita’s henchmen, the zords) is where he really shines. The only downside is this green ranger story is starting to drag. We aren’t getting a new villain issue to issue, and the action is starting to wane.

Archie continues to be phenomenal with its eighth issue. If you aren’t a fan of high school stories, maybe this won’t be up your alley, but you might be surprised. We are living in a world where if Mark Millar’s name is on a comic it is probably worth reading. Don’t worry if you haven’t read an Archie book before (I hadn’t) you can still connect with this book and these characters. Millar offers a little Archie history lesson at the end of every issue. I’m not sure if he actually loves the original source material or not, but damn he has me convinced that he does.

New Reads

House of Penance 3

“Don’t judge a book by its cover.” When it comes to comics, I break this rule regularly and I did it again this week when I decided to check out House of Penance.

The book’s description reads:

“The Winchester House—famous for its original owner’s bizarre compulsion to incorporate a multitude of architectural curiosities. But as the bereaved Sarah Winchester’s workers toil on stairways to nothing and doors to nowhere, a mysterious stranger arrives… and he could make Sarah’s demons all too real.”

Basically, after two issues, it’s a whole lot of “WTF?” but in all the right ways. I think? I still don’t really know what’s going on other than it’s really, really, creepy and I’d really, really, like to find out.

I love the style of Bertram’s art, I had reservations about how it would work in a horror story but it’s great. This story isn’t on the same level as the first two arcs of Harrow County or what I’ve read of Outcast so far, but if you’re looking for horror comics this needs to be on your pull list.

Next Time

You guys want DC? I got DC! Future Quest #1
Then Civil War, Spider-Man, and Surfer!

The Vision Talks About The Mind Stone In A New Clip From ‘Captain America: Civil War’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: We published our review for the film a few days back, but with just a few days to go until Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War hits theatres, the Marvel marketing machine is out in full force.

A new clip for the film has just hit the web, via Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany’s visit to Good Morning America. The clip has The Vision and Scarlett Witch talking all about what they don’t know about the Mind stone.

You can take a look at the clip below (along with the full Good Morning America segment), and be sure to let us know what you’re most excited to see in the film!

http://youtu.be/cKUoeK_5rzY

“Captain America: Civil War” picks up where “Avengers: Age of Ultron” left off, as Steve Rogers leads the new team of Avengers in their continued efforts to safeguard humanity. After another international incident involving the Avengers results in collateral damage, political pressure mounts to install a system of accountability and a governing body to determine when to enlist the services of the team. The new status quo fractures the Avengers while they try to protect the world from a new and nefarious villain.

Geekscape Reviews: ‘Captain America: Civil War’

by Eric Francisco

Captain America: Civil War isn’t just a refreshing change of pace from Marvel’s routine formula in its winning franchise strategy, it is simply a great movie. Though exhausting in how it juggles its staggering ensemble cast, Civil War is a thrilling, heartfelt, and often times funny smash and bash rumination on accountability and oversight in the 21st century. Though it doesn’t come away completely unscathed, when the smoke clears Civil War will be celebrated as a total victory for Marvel and the entire superhero genre.

Inevitably, no matter how close you get with co-workers, friends, and family, eventually you want to punch one of them in the face. The premise behind Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War directed by Joe and Anthony Russo and loosely based on the 2006 comic of the same name, is of course more complex than that. But the rage is palpable for those of us without superpowers: Following another international incident that causes brutal bystander casualties, the privately-operated Avengers — led by the square jawed but complex Capt. Steve Rogers, a.k.a. Captain America (Chris Evans) — are coerced by the world’s governments to come under multinational oversight. Former Avenger and billionaire Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.) is the right kind of type-A personality who leads several of the Marvel heroes’ support while Rogers opposes, refusing to shift blame to others. The two titans of Marvel clash, attract new superheroes to the cause — Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) and Spider-Man (Tom Holland) — while a neutral enemy plays their card in a terribly distracted world.

The 13th film in the ever-expanding Marvel “Cinematic Universe,” Civil War is a retroactive “fix” or a sneaky jab to critics who complain these films fetishize 9/11 imagery for spectacle. Civil War re-contextualizes the sweeping victories in 2012’s The Avengers and 2014’s The Winter Soldier into something more consequential. Maybe Hulk smashing does cause real damage. After the mind-numbing death orgy of 2013’s Man of Steel and its succeeding Batman v Superman, Civil War is like a sincere apology on behalf of the genre to a weary audience. And as an apology, it presents breathtaking, incredibly choreographed action and some really knee slapping hysterics.

Of all the things to consider Civil War, one would assume “funny” could be the last adjective. But Civil War is light, very light, without treading on childish goofiness (though I personally like when superhero movies embrace that). Even in the middle of jaw-dropping action there’s time for a joke, and it’s never forced or even insincere. Step away from the politically presumptuous comic book from Mark Millar and what Civil War is is an excuse for superheroes to fight. Marvel is, always, an obscenely budgeted, delicately crafted, A-list starring version of a Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers script. And yet the magic of Marvel is that it revels in that joy without posturing, or even feeling embarrassed by its kitschy roots.

Positively, Civil War is stacked with characters. Regrettably, it juggles them so much it’s nearly tiresome. Civil War by its nature will attract fans who could tell you everything about T’Challa and Wakanda before Chadwick Boseman walks on screen (Boseman is GREAT, by the way, and the Black Panther costume is pure eye candy), but in the nearly two and a half hour running time you witness a revolving door of characters, who all come with their own arcs, backgrounds, and motivations. For so long one could skip the last Marvel movie, but Civil War will punish that. The Russos should be commended for the tight wire act they display with the film’s characters, but it’s not perfect and could never be. So those who didn’t bother with Ant-Man or, more importantly, Age of Ultron will find themselves at a loss with who’s who.

I have no where to put this sentence, but it bears mentioning: Sebastian Stan’s Bucky, a.k.a. The Winter Soldier, is very much the centerpiece of Civil War in a way he never was in the original comic book. And Stan performs reliably well as a cold (excuse the pun), detached puppet for a darker enemy. Everything extends like a web around Bucky, whose presence is very much why almost everything in Civil War works.

Speaking of “webs” and working, Civil War has introduced us to our best Spider-Man yet. Tom Holland is a real delight as the teenaged Peter Parker, considerably younger and whimsical than previous actors Andrew Garfield and Tobey McGuire, who Holland outshines. He’s charismatic but comfortable in the role, as comfortable as the bright, vibrant suit he wears as the webslinger. The film really does speed through Spider-Man’s “origin” to the point it’s almost barely mentioned — and yeah, because we know it already — but it’s there and you can bet it’ll be explored at length in 2017’s Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Civil War is a lot of things: Funny, tense, well-paced, exhilarating — go in to the German airport fight scene knowing nothing, it’s better that way. It also falls victim to some of the trappings of the Marvel Universe. The stakes are tangible and, most importantly, there, but they also somehow aren’t due to the inevitable sequels and bombastic Infinity War on the horizon. Still, Civil War is a real win for the summer movie season. No matter the reasons why they fight or who wins — and there is a winner! — who doesn’t relate to wanting to sock the annoying one in the car complaining about where you’re going to eat, or a co-worker being smug in the email thread or Slack channel? You don’t need superpowers to maybe think these guys are still just human.

Captain America: Civil War gets 4 1/2 out of 5.

Geekscape Comics: Weekly Reads!

by Karson

Welcome to Weekly Reads! It’s your little, weekly dose of comic book goodness that focuses on some aspect of my comic book reading!

Two big #1’s I want to discuss from last week, but first, an update on some ongoing series. Spider-Man #3 is a slow read. Miles gets grounded and not a whole lot goes on. Black Widow #2 doesn’t have the breakneck pace of the previous issue but it’s still a top-notch book, filled with bad ass moments.

Black Panther (2016-) 001-000

Black Panther #1

Black Panther is not your typical superhero book. There’s a lot to wrap your head around in this book. Outside of the book’s deeper cultural themes, there is a lot to pick up on if you aren’t familiar with the character. This is going to be a popular book and probably talked about it a lot. If you are interested in the character because of Captain America: Civil War, you might want to wait for the book in trade or prepare to do some extra reading.

The Fix 001-000

The Fix #1

This is hands down last week’s must-read book. The creative team behind The Superior Foes of Spider-Man joins forces again in this crooked cop comedy. This book is for a mature audience but damn is it hilarious. I laughed out loud multiple times while reading it. The book runs a few pages longer than most books and has a bit more dialogue but I didn’t mind in the slightest because it’s so funny. Spencer creates some unreal situational comedy moments and then turns on a dime to deliver us some sadistic characters. This series is going to have some dark, dark moments. It’s going to be a roller coaster ride, get on board now!

What are you reading? Comment or tweet!

Black Panther, Baloo And More Revealed For ‘Disney Infinity 3.0’ Courtesy Of Retailer Leak!

by Josh Jackson

Man, these leaks seem to hit Disney Infinity hard, don’t they?

A few months after a few of the upcoming Marvel figures were leaked ahead of the Marvel Battlegrounds Play Set scheduled to launch in March, an apparent retailer leak has shown off these figures all over again, with one extra surprise being added to the Disney Originals roster. From the expected, to the teased, to the completely out of left field, here are the characters and power discs being added to the Disney Infinity collection.

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Black Suit Spider Man

Starting with one we all knew was coming, Black Suit Spider-Man was previously exclusive to the PS Vita version of Disney Infinity 2.0, and was clearly listed as a new character under the Marvel character roster in 3.0. Even if he wasn’t a surprise, (and despite the costume being available as a power disc,) Symbiote Spidey looks amazing up close. I know this because I was one of the people who bought the Vita version just for him early last year. It’s worth it, people!

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Ant Man

Teased months ago on the Disney Infinity Facebook page, Ant-Man is finally headed to the game with his own figure. Despite appearing as a mission giver and assist character via his own Power Disc, Ant-Man will now be fully playable, with an updated design based more on his movie version. Sure to ride the wave of momentum the character is enjoying after his movie turned out to be pretty great, I can’t wait to add him to my growing collection.

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Vision

As one of the two major leaks from October, we finally have a mock up of what Vision’s figure and box will look like together. While somewhat expected because of his debut in Age Of Ultron, Vision is sure to bring some exciting new moves with the power of his Infinity Stone once the character is released.

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Black Panther

Easily my favorite figure from the leaked set, (and possibly ever if the detail in the image translates to the final release,) Black Panther looks like an absolute beast! Just in time for his big screen debut in Captain America: Civil War, the prince of Wakanda will go well with the updated First Avenger Captain America launching with Marvel Battlegrounds.

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Marvel Power Discs

The next batch of Marvel Power Discs feature a variety of characters and items from the most recent films, including the Nova Corps logo, Ghost Rider’s motorcycle, (despite having no Ghost Rider,) and the Cosmic Cube. What’s most surprising, is what seems to be a Darkhawk support disc, a more obscure character who is typically associated with Nova, but hasn’t made an appearance in the games or movies at this point. Maybe it’s hinting at future plans? Or maybe it’s just a cool bonus for the hardcore comic fans!

Disney Infinity 3.0 Leak Baloo

And lastly, the character that I did not see coming is Baloo, although it’s clear Disney saw him as a “Bear Necessity”. With a joyous expression reminiscent of his beloved song and dance sequence from The Jungle Book, details on what his in game abilities will be at this point are unknown. Once Disney sends out the official details however, we’ll be sure to post the updates!

You might have noticed the Wi-Fi logo at the bottom of each box. Considering past games have had the entire release schedule pre-installed on the disc, (and ruining the surprise in the process,) 3.0 is allowing the developers to add characters post launch. Unfortunately, this also means that an Internet connection is needed for characters who are being added late in the game’s life. It’s a give and take, but overall, I feel this is a positive, especially since surprises like Baloo would’ve been spoiled in August if this wasn’t the case.

What are your favorites from these new figures, and who do you hope to see get added to the game? Let us know in the comments!

Source: iheartinfinity.com

‘Creed’s Ryan Coogler Is Officially Directing ‘Black Panther’!

by Derek Kraneveldt

Briefly: Finally.

After months and months of rumours, and our first official look at the character back in the Captain America: Civil War trailer, Marvel has finally, officially revealed who will be taking the reins on the anticipated Black Panther film.

After Creed blew absolutely everyone away earlier this year (his debut feature, Fruitvale Station is quite exceptional as well), Ryan Coogler has officially been tapped to direct the picture.

Marvel’s Kevin Feige notes that “We are fortunate to have such an esteemed filmmaker join the Marvel family. The talents Ryan showcased in his first two films easily made him our top choice to direct ‘Black Panther.’  Many fans have waited a long time to see Black Panther in his own film, and with Ryan we know we’ve found the perfect director to bring T’Challa’s story to life.”

So, what do you think of the choice? Excited, right? Yeah, us too.

Panther

Source: Marvel

Geekscape 339: Live From Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo!

by Jonathan

Live from Stan Lee’s Comikaze Expo, our very first LIVE Geekscape from a comic convention! And we’ve got a great one! Chris Gore, ex-WWE Diva Katarina Waters and pro wrestler Christopher Daniels join us on stage to talk about Batman VS Superman, Marvel Phase 3, if Gotham is worth watching and much much more! Is DC and WB just reacting to Marvel’s cinematic universe or is there a plan? How could it work? Are they saturating the market and is there an end in sight? Also, Christopher Daniels gets confused for a major comic book professional!

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Major Announcements Made At The Special Marvel Studios Event!

by Bigyanks

Briefly: These are some exciting times for comic book movies. Marvel has decided to answer DC’s move of announcing all of their upcoming films through the year 2020 with their own long term announcements for Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Here’s what’s been announced, as well as the release dates:

list of movies

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Chadwick Boseman was also announced as playing the lead, Black Panther. Here’s a concept shot of the bad-ass costume:

Panther

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Kevin Feige announced that this will be a Carol Danvers Captain Marvel, so definitely an answer to the Wonder Woman movie.

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Yep, Avengers: Infinity War will be split into TWO parts. This is going to be HUGE!

I am super excited for these films and the introduction of these new characters into the MCU!

So, let the fantasy casting begin! Who do you think should play your favorite Marvel characters? Let us know in the comments section below!

Could Morris Chestnut Be In The Running For The Role Of Black Panther?

by Shawn Madden

Marvel Studios has had a Black Panther movie in the works for quite some time and it now looks like there’s a chance that they may be finally moving forward with bringing the character to the big screen. Actor Morris Chestnut posted an image to his Facebook earlier today as well as the following tweet:

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Could this be an indication that Marvel Studios is looking at actors to play the character? Or could the actor just be brushing up on his reading?

Geekscape Comics: Are The New ‘New Avengers’…The Illuminati?

by Shawn Madden

Could the cast of Jonathan Hickman’s New Avengers be an incarnation of Marvel’s The Illuminati? At least Skottie Young’s variant for the issue would imply this being that Black Bolt, Iron Man and Mr. Fantastic were all member of the group. And if you’re unfamiliar with the group:

The “Illuminati” was a secret organization comprised of several of the world’s most powerful heroes: Sorcerer Supreme Doctor Strange; Black Bolt, King of the Inhumans; Charles Xavier, founder of the X-Men and mutant rights activist; Reed Richards, founding member of the Fantastic Four; Namor the Sub-Mariner, King of Atlantis; and Iron Man (Anthony Stark), founding member of the Avengers. These six men worked together for an unspecified amount of time to mold and shape the status of the superhuman world and the world around it.

Minus Black Panther each member on this cover was a member of this group. Could they be re-uniting after the events of AvX? I guess only time will tell but this is definitely an interesting line-up to put together for an Avengers title.

Source: Newsarama

Geekscape Comics: Tom Breevort Explains The End Of A Marriage In ‘AvX Round 9’

by Shawn Madden

One of the most surprising moments to fans in Avengers vs X-Men #9 was Marvel ending the marriage between The Black Panther and Storm. While most people could care less and some fans are even happy because of how fake the marriage honestly felt it still was pretty unexpected. In a recent interview with Newsarama, Avengers vs X-Men editor Tom Breevort explains the reasoning behind the action.

“I think it’s a little bit of everything. To be honest, I don’t know that we handled Storm and the Panther as a married couple as well as we could have on a consistent basis. This is a byproduct of the fact that they come from different corners of the MU, and it was often difficult to bridge the gap. X-readers and creators wanted Storm to be in the world of X rather than in Wakanda with the Panther, and the Panther’s trajectory was often well away from that X-world. So more often than not, we had the two of them separated, each off doing their own thing in their own sphere, and touching base with the other, but that’s about it. We never found that winning formula to put them into position in the Marvel U as a couple that would succeed long-term. Probably the closest we came was right after the wedding, when they became half of the Fantastic Four. It wasn’t absolutely necessary that we dissolve their union as a part of AvX, but as you said, it was a logical consequence of the conflict, and it adds a personal and emotional resonance to what goes on. And it’s not a relationship that we’re done with necessarily—as you’ll see as the remainder of AvX and AvX: VS plays out, and we get into the world of Marvel NOW.”

Uncanny Assembly: Geekscape Reviews Avengers vs. X Men #2

by Joe Starr

We’re back with Avengers vs. X Men: Round 2! If you missed my review of #1, it’s right here. Before you get caught up, don’t forget to follow me on Twitter so you can tell me I’m a dick for my opinions at @joestarr187. All caught up? Let’s do this.

Things pick up right where they left off: with a helicarrier full of Avengers decloaking over Utopia with jets scrambling and Colossus being hurled at it. He crashes through, and like Spider Man says, Avengers vs. X Men is actually happening.

Red Hulk pairs off with Cojuggerlossusnaught and Namor punches the holy hell out of Thing with Luke Cage on the ring apron ready to tag in and bring the Sweet Christmas to the Prince of Atlantis. I love the Hulk. Hulk dialogue will never surprise you, especially if it starts with ‘So you’re the strongest on <insert place here>?’ You know he’s going to say that he’s the strongest there is. But no matter what color he is, when he says it, it’s always awesome.

Captain America brings a wave of Avengers to the shore and gives the command for his hastily drawn comrades to take the beach. Cyclops, complete with a Cap shield dent in his visor, gives the order for the X Men to charge and the fight is on!

Not that it’s much of a fight. Seriously, Cyclops has Psylocke and some New Mutants and Dr. Nemesis charging into Wolverine, Iron Fist, Spider Man, Captain America, and a Giant Man. Not sure if it’s Pym or Stature’s dad. Remember the cartoon Samurai Pizza Cats? There was a comic relief B team called The Rescue Squad and that’s what Scott Summers has on the beach plus Psylocke. We can pretty much call the fight here, but this is a $3.99 comic, so we’ve got some pages to fill.

It’s time for the New Mutants to hang it up.

But things get better for the X Men because SURGE GETS A LINE! She says “why was I left off of a main roster but Vampire Jubilee is still around?” Actually, she only says “what the hell are they even doing here?” but she says it awesomely. She’s hanging out in a room with a giant window right next to the action with Pixie (Utopia’s Wesley Crusher) and some Lights watching the fight. Through a big window next to the battle. It’s the perfect place for Emma to stow Hope: an easily found room full of people Hope could easily incapacitate if she wanted to. I’m starting to think Cyclops got the short end of the schism stick as far as rosters go because the talent on this island is thin. Steve Rogers is just going to hang out in the ring and start jack knifing people while referees make three counts on guys he’s not even pinning.

“Did someone just reference me? I’m available for bookings! I played Super Shredder!”

This logic jump is forgiven, as we move into a cool Emma Frost vs. Iron Man and then Iron Man vs. Magneto sequence. And then we cut to Quicksilver and Scarlet Witch hanging out in their bonus room watching the fight on television. Did you call it a bonus room or a den? I think it’s only a den if your dad is the primary occupant. Dad=den, kids=playroom and mom=kitchen. AMIRIGHT?

Apparently there’s crazy fighting going on, but it’s not so crazy that CNN helicopters are about 100 feet from a Magneto fight filming it. I always love seeing super heroes lounging in their house. It’s important to note that Quicksilver is business casual when he watches television, but Scarlet Witch has yet to buy new clothes since she resurfaced, so she’s been catching up on Breaking Bad in full costume. Pietro decides it’s time to punch his dad in the face, and does so. Scarlet Witch stays home and writes in her dream journal. We know it’s a dream journal because it’s opened to the middle of the book and it says ‘Wanda’s Dream Journal’ at the top. The first half of the book is all Quicksilver/Scarlet Witch fanfiction written by Quicksilver. And it gets pretty gross.

Meanwhile, the mutants are pissed at Wolverine because his X Men book is the best one, and Storm and Black Panther are super pissed at each other because remember that they’re married? This had better end with her and Panther making a decision together and not them splitting apart, since they got married and then he started being Daredevil right away and so far their marriage has been stupid.

Hope watches the fight from closer than the CNN helicopters and of course she’s gonna get out because she’s being guarded by Pixie and a blue chick I don’t know the name of.

Cyclops gets his ass handed to him by Captain America, but manages to get a shot off at Wolverine. Props to Aaron- he manages to show more Schism between Scott and “the crazy fringe” Logan in one panel than all of Schism did in like 6 books.

And seriously, Cyclops just did a total job to Steve Rogers. It was rough.

Magik traps Dr. Strange in hell and takes magic out of the fight. She’s back to having goat legs, which is pretty cool if you like goat legs. She’s got a demon army with her, which is a good indicator of where Scott Summers’ head it right now. Spoiler alert: It’s in a place where goat legs and demon armies are an ok thing.

Danger warns Cyclops that Stark is shutting down their island defenses. I haven’t seen any island defenses yet so I’m not sure that this is something anyone should be worried about. When I think ‘island defenses’ I think of that sequence in Transformers: The Movie when Autobot City turns into nothing but guns. So far, Utopia’s defenses have been Hepzibah in a sports bra, and Dr. Nemesis, who always makes me think of Dr. McNinja.

Please join the X Club.

Wolverine and Spider Man sneak into a drainpipe like Slaughter and the Renegades breaking into the Terrordrome. They find Hope and she Phoenixes them. And then I think she burns Wolverine alive? So he’s dead. LOLj/k.

And then, in a gag out of Three’s Company, the Avengers burst through one door and the X Men burst through another and they all go ‘where’s Hope?!’ And of course Hope has bailed. And then the X Men and Avengers are trapped together in a small space and forced to work out their differences.

Meanwhile, in deep space, the rest of the Avengers are about to get fucked up by a giant cosmic firebird. I bet Ms. Marvel gets aced. They don’t have anything planned for her, right?

In my last review I ripped Romita’s art pretty severely and it continues to be a problem. I’m not going to beat a dead horse but there are panels where Iron Fist looks like a circle with a smiley face and that just sucks.

But Aaron is shining: I’m excited to see The Best Writer of All Time writing Avengers. The fight scenes are well staged- when Namor comes at Thing there’s a sense of history between the two and not just ‘this will sell comics!’ Likewise when Summers keeps focusing on Wolverine and airs his ‘we’re fucking step children to the Avengers’ grievances. This moment of aggression was earned by Marvel. It didn’t need Nitro blowing up kids. It may not have even needed Phoenix: Everyone is sick of everything. X Men are sick of being second thought garbage. Avengers are sick of world killing events. The X Men might cause one. So now the Avengers are sick of them. It’s been organic and well done, and you can read the reasons behind every punch.

ELSEWHERE… I also picked up Jason Aaron’s Wolverine and the X Men AvX tie in, and I suggest you pick it up. It’s fantastic and it also made me realize that the Jean Grey School is basically a school for mutants run by Avengers, which is kind of awesome. It’s also full of Gladiator and Kid Gladiator, and Chris Bachalo took more than 20 minutes to draw it.

NEXT ISSUE… Phoenix burns the world to ashes and civilization has to be restarted by Surge and Kid Gladiator! Excelsior!

Avengers vs. X Men: The Matches We Really Want To See

by Joe Starr

I know that you’ve read a ton of other articles about fights people want to see in Avengers vs. X Men. And I know that you’ve been bored by them. Captain America and Cyclops? Meh. Rogue vs. Iron Man? Pfft. Red Hulk vs. Armor and Surge…? Acceptable. With fights that bland, I can’t believe Marvel hasn’t been purchased by Dreamwave yet.

There are a lot of battles I’m dreaming of that Marvel just doesn’t have the courage to give us. So here, in no particular order, are most of them.

 Decade Late Battle of the Decade: 

Gambit vs. 90’s Thor

Remy Lebeau: The poster child of 90’s Marvel. He’s still wearing that damn coat and that black and purply armor/jumpsuit thing and he’s still throwing cards. He couldn’t be anymore 90’s if he was throwing Wildstorm cards.

But the Son of Odin shant let the X Men own the 90’S! It’s time for Thor to pay his storage unit a visit and fish out the STRAPS! CHAINS! BELLY SHIRT! SHOULDER PADS! Whoever wields this dick armor, should he be worthy, shall possess the power of Thor!

Projected winner: Gambit is shattered into a pile of Phalanx Covenant hologram covers when he tries to hit Thor in the junk with his staff.

By the Order of Agent Henry Peter Gyrich:

Token Black Guy Battle Royale

Storm. Black Panther. Bishop. Falcon. That smart kid from New X Men that lost his powers. Patriot. Black Widow. Black Knight. Black Tom Cassidy. Throughout the years, a respectable handful of black superheroes have either protected a world that hated and feared them or served as one of earth’s mightiest heroes.

But heads up, true believers: after AvX every spot for an African American hero is being taken up by a different Spider-Man costume variation, and according to Gyrich, the Avengers and X Men will share one only black person between the two teams.

Projected winner: Krystalin from X Men 2099 wins the spot. Black Panther stops hanging out in New York all the time and remembers to run that country that he’s the king of.

The Real McCoy:

X Men Beast vs. Avengers Beast

One 3.99 22 page comic of Hank McCoy sitting in his room making a pros and cons list about which team he should fight alongside. WRITTEN BY GRANT MORRISON.

Projected Winner: Whichever one makes him not look like a cat anymore.

Kid Gladiator vs. Everyone

I mainly just want to see Kid Gladiator beat the hell out of that dinosaur kid from Avengers Academy like a super strong Verne Gagne. Did you guys know that Kid Gladiator is the future of comics? Because he is.

Projected Winner: Kid Gladiator beats up the whole crossover, jumps to the New 52, and takes care of them, too. Broo helps.

The Chuck Austen Memorial Cage Match: 

Lionheart vs. Nurse Annie

If Lionheart wins, she gets to see her kids which she couldn’t do for some reason! If Annie wins, she…I guess she bangs Havok? And her son watches? Chuck Austen was weird.

Projected Winner: Chuck Austen, for me reminding everyone he existed for a paragraph.

Andy Kaufman InterGender

Championship Match: 

Hank Pym vs. Emma Frost

I just want to see Hank try and give Emma the Pym-Hand. She used to be a stripper. They know how to deal with dudes like that.

Projected winner: Emma Frost makes Pym sit on his hands by force.

The ‘I Know Now Why You Cry But It Is Something I Can Never Do’ Invitational Robot Fight: 

Vision vs. Danger

Maybe it’s because I was just writing about old Chuck Austen runs, but I hope Scarlet Witch falls in love with Danger.

Projected Winner: Vision is in control until Hugh Jackman figures out how to make Danger mimic his shadow boxing moves.

Avengers: Disassembled

vs. X Men: Disassembled

Bendis is leaving Avengers. We know this to be true. And we all know by now that his roadmap to a franchise’s success looks something like this:

1. Disassemble
2. Red Ninjas
3. Profit
4. Red Ninjas

Don’t think it’s not coming, X fans. Sure, they just schismed, but right after we had a Civil War we were Secretly Invaded, and then we faced Fear Itself like two days later. Somewhere in there, Spider-Man big-timed. X Men: Disassembled is coming for us and the mutants are going to have to prove that they can disassemble better than the Avengers.

This will be an uphill battle for the X Men. For one thing, they don’t assemble so I think they’ll have to call it X Men: Disuncannied. I hope Bendis just makes X Men: Disuncannied Pixie’s fault so we can get rid of her.

Projected Winner: Bendis gets five more years of glory when The Hood relocates The Hand to San Francisco.

Johnny Guitar and Dr. Sax

Not even fighting anyone. I just want them around more.

Projected Winner: Everyone that buys The Adventures of Kid Gladiator Featuring Johnny Guitar and Dr. Sax #1, the MAJOR new ongoing series spinning out of the pages of AvX written by Dan Slott and Jason Aaron with art by Stuart Immonen!  Special back up story: BROO MEETS PRESIDENT OBAMA!

Joe Starr is the host of GEEKSCAPE PRESENTS, our monthly free live comedy show. The next one is April 3 and you can learn all about it HERE.

Geekscape 251: Jamal Joseph – Author of Panther Baby

by Jonathan

This conversation is one of the best I’ve ever had on Geekscape. Jamal Joseph is an Oscar nominated writer who grew up in the New York Panther Party and at the age of 16 was arrested as the youngest member of The Panther 21. While in jail off and on over the course of the next 15 years, Jamal developed his writing and is now a published poet, playwright and screenwriter. He was also one of my teachers at film school. Jamal and I talk about his new biography “Panther Baby”, the transformative power of art, his lifelong friendship with Tupac Shakur and his career in film. We also talk about his son… now a director and bonafide geek with a zombie web series! Definitely not a Geekscape you want to miss!

Find it on iTunes

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:19:51 — 48.6MB)