DVD’s are Fantastic
I recently read a review of Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, and I think the treatment of the Fantastic Four movies in reviews was a little harsh. Admittedly, I have not seen the second flick, but I enjoyed the first—to a point. I think that critics were reading into the film trying to make it something it was not. Clearly, the film was not meant to be the greatest comic book epic of all time, but rather mindless or recreational entertainment. And it accomplished just that. In context of the comics, which I felt were always a little weak in plot and characterization anyway, I think the major redeeming quality of the film was the modernization of the group. In terms of judgment of the quality of the acting, frankly the original source material doesn’t have much to offer. Has anyone read the dialogue? I mean, come on, there’s just no way to make the phrase “Flame on,” cool. Some critics have felt that the casting of the Invisible Woman was a bad choice, but Alba does have the body to pull off the costume, which is all I ever thought the purpose of the character was anyway, to be eye candy for Reed Richards. I know hardcore fans of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby will probably disagree, but I think when you start with a poorly written comic book with cardboard cutout characters, combine that with square, bold art which lacks detail, such as Kirby’s, then make the team of all things, a family you’re asking for a flop. For me personally, all the Fantastic Four brings to mind is Lost in Space meets Mystery in Space. So let Marvel’s first family rest in peace in the DVD bargain bin already, there’ll be a third movie to groan at soon enough. If you want to read the actual review go here: http://www.popculturebuzz.com/dvd-review-the-fantastic-4-rise-of-the-silver-surfer/
So until tomorrow Flame On!!
October 5th, 2007 at 10:51 pm
I found the Ultimate Fantastic Four to be a much more engaging storyline, give it a shot you might enjoy it.
October 6th, 2007 at 7:36 am
The FF movies were a let down. I didn’t think the comics were very good until Byrne started writing/pencilling. I completely agree with your take on Lee/Kirby. Stan’s best work was on Spider-Man and Kirby is THE KING of the over-rated. Granted, his output was phenomenal and worthy of accolades, but his work never grew beyond the 1950’s styles. When I do recommend comics to people I steer clear of anything Kirby has done.