Proto-type

Ships Crew
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Content Count

    44

  • Joined

  • Last visited

Posts posted by Proto-type

  1. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

    Though it makes me cringe to say it, I can only give my golden-ticketed 300 the Bronze.

     

    The visuals were stunning and did Frank Miller justice. The acute passion portrayed between Gerard Butler's Leonidas and his queen, Lena Headey, was more than believable. And the pecs on every single Spartan, especially Butler, were worth the price of admission. But, all things considered, there was something missing.

     

    Maybe it was the way Scottish-born Butler lapsed into a wee bit of a Scottish 'brogue' now and again that made his character feel like a character. For a split second William Wallace would enter stage left and the gears would grind to a nanosecond's halt. The funny thing is that there were plenty of moments when he was credible and you wanted to pick up any sword and shield within reach and march to certain death alongside him.

     

    A quandary of a film. A compelling story yet, somehow, Xerxes was reminiscent of Ra from Stargate and you had to remind yourself that this was rooted in historical fact. I guess I've seen too many steles of what real Persian kings looked like to believe the bejeweled and bedecked Xerxes. But, it was faithful to Miller's interpretation, I'll give it that.

     

    I'm a real fan of 'Kill Bill' blood spatter so the testosterone overdose was a walk in the park for me. Sorry, but the sound of a sword or spear scqunching (yes, I said that) into human flesh has always gotten me off.

     

    I also liked the added Thelma and Louise twist that Snyder inserted regarding the queen and the snake of a 'senator' that was trying to rig the council against her. What woman wouldn't love to see a rapist get his just desserts? ^_~

     

    All in all, a fairly faithful rendition yet, while the running narrative works well in the graphic novel, I wonder of it didn't detract from the power of the film itself. After all, a picture really can be worth a thousand words.

     

    Is this picture worth Miller's thousand words....I urge you to see it and judge for yourself.

  3. Posted

    Anyone still keeping up? Last episode was good, but not quite what I expected...

     

    That's why I'm so enamored of this series. Real life is like Candid Camera.....when you least expect it, etc. etc. etc. ^_~

     

    The essential, overall plot keeps unfolding.....and we, like the gods, have eyes to see. At the same time, the subplots that are singularly explored and seem to be a diversion will become the big bang in the BSG universe.

     

    Kind of like those neighbors of yours across the street, that when interviewed can honestly say "He was such a nice, quiet man. We had no idea what was going on behind those closed doors."

     

    In real life, everyone's microcosm is a mirror of the macrocosm. The fact that this show explores the interconnection between all of us 'starstuff' deems it a deliberate descendant of Straczynski's legendary Babylon 5.

  4. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

    I'm also panting and eager to see the movie "300" all the overload of testerone in the film and the great outfits just wearing Sandals-Helmet-Shield and some have Capes on over the Male ("Bare Torsos") haven't seen a Ancient War Epic in such amazing Special effects puts my DVD Of Troy out to pasture in a manner of speaking.

     

    Did you check out the photo gallery (86 pics!) at the link I posted? The second picture is definitely your cup of tea. ^_~

     

    I agree.....leave Troy gathering moss as We march* with the 300.

     

    :P

     

     

     

     

    *first words of the graphic novel - for the yet uninitiated

  6. Posted

    This Friday, the 9th of March, is another momentous day in the life of graphic novelist extraordinaire Frank Miller.

     

    Those of you who enjoyed Sin City and have never read "300" owe yourselves a look at the book to drink in the lush illustrations before you see them transmuted to the silver screen.

     

    As faithful as Robert Rodriguez, Zach Snyder has accomplished the uncanny; whole pages infused with a 'celluloid' soul. They're alive, re-animated and awaiting your eyes this Friday.

     

     

    May our voices whisper to you from the ageless stones...that here, by Spartan law, we lie.

  8. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

     

    Such beautiful examples of how disagreements of opinion can be discussed civilly that I just had to read your replys twice. Very nice Proto-type! :roflmao:

     

    Effusive thanks, dear sir!!!

     

    But I do need something to fill the Sci-Fi void in my world since Trek died and of all the current choices available out there; I am beginning to believe this could be the one.

     

    Of course you must know that in my opinion you would be doing yourself a great disservice by not jumping on this now.

     

    Would I be totally lost if I were to watch a few new upcoming episodes? Without divulging any major spoilers* of the story so far; is there anything you could (please) tell me about the story that will help me pick up the threads? :helpsmilie:

     

    *I wonder when season one will be coming to DVD

    341625[/snapback]

     

    Here's my solution to your dilemma.

     

    First and foremost: Go right out and buy the New Battlestar Galactica miniseries immediately. It's exactly 3 hours and 3 minutes long and sets up everything for Season One. Not only a must see but worth it!! Eventually, when you have the time, go back and watch it with the commentary. Btw - I think it was $19.99 at Best Buy.

     

    Then, you can go to the link below and catch up on the episode summaries from Season One and Season Two (only one has aired so far...last Friday evening, July 15th).

     

     

    Battlestar Galactica Hub

     

     

    Another suggestion is to Google "New Battlestar Galactica episode summaries" and there are all sorts of links, even some that you can download all Season One's episodes from and the first Season Two episode, also.

     

     

    In closing, I hope you can get this under your belt before Friday evening because, as you've indicated, it would be helpful to be 'up to snuff' as Season Two unfolds. If you can't make Friday then just check at Sci-Fi.com and they have schedules for reruns of the new episode in the week following it's first air date.

     

    Believe me, this series will go down in Sci-fi history and it would behoove you to get in on the ground floor.

     

    Hope this helps! :yahoo:

     

     

    edit: I re-read your post (one hand washes another :clap:) and realize now that you already saw the whole 2- part pilot/miniseries. Sorry I didn't catch that earlier but, still, it can't hurt to have the info posted and watching the miniseries with the commentary is still worth the price of admission.

  9. Posted

    "A can nae change the laws of physics." Scotty in The Naked Time, stardate 1704.3, Episode 7

     

     

    None of us can, Jimmy. :yahoo:

     

     

    But when our thoughts turn to you we'll be 'lit up like a Christmas tree on the 4th of July!' :roflmao:

     

     

    Rest in peace...

  10. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

    proto-type: that's very persuasive bit of writing - although I'm not sure how you get that out of BSG.

     

     

    Well, thank you, Unicorn Hunter...I think. :lol:

     

     

    Someone on another board posted the review that said ENT would have been better if it were like BSG.  And people keep talking about realism - here's what I posted regarding BSG's realism.   They actually nomimated me #1 BSG basher.

     

    I didn't hate this show at first - I'm just tired of the critics trying to push it down my throat.   I have a big issue with what "Hollywood types" consider "realism"

     

    On the other hand - if BSG is the new face of Scifi - maybe it's not so bad - think how much I can save by getting rid of cable.

     

    I think you're just grand, UH...for a #1 BSG basher, that is.:wink1:

     

     

    The oh so realistic BSG world.

    Okay, maybe having sex with people that exist only in your mind is reality for some people.

     

    Actually, I find this scenario to be an extremely imaginative representation of a real womanizer. A man, just like Gaius, who seems to be here but is really always toying with his next conquest in his mind. There are plenty of them out there, usually just as articulate and charming as Gaius was on Caprica. Frankly, it delights me to no end to see him being tormented by his own obsessions.

     

    And we all know that all fathers and sons secretly hate each other and never speak - that's realistic (my family is apparently abnormal).

     

    Then you are a lucky duck and I truly take my hat off to you. Some of us have not been so fortunate. :)

     

     

    And machines that look like people - well that's realistic; TNG apparently had it all wrong with Data.

     

    :lol: I will admit that my heart belongs to Data. :lol: But, it is terrifying to imagine a world where we really don't know who's human and who's not. It was this sense of frightening futility that fueled the Terminator films. Remember that pit in the bottom of your stomach when the T-1000 (that liquid metal Terminator) first morphs his arm into a weapon? Uggghhh! Deception is, unfortunately, a powerful truth in the real world (achingly so) and any writer that has the guts to risk dealing with such an evocative issue gets my vote.

     

    And when people do have sex with people outside their mind - let's see, it's to get information about their job or to try to take their mind off the person they really want to be with - but it doesn't work because you call out that persons name anyway. If a spouse is a good, loving spouse they're going to die - no reprieve - they're toast - but if they're a deceptive manipulative cheat - well they'll survive anything. Nobody gets married and has children and remains a family unit - if you're going to be anyone important make sure your spouse dies or you get divorced - unless your spouse is one of the aforementioned deceptive, manipulative cheats - then by all means stay married.

     

    Again, I envy your contentment and truly do wish you all the best. My experiences have been vastly different. My sincerity in relationships has been juxtaposed by those that would not sustain sincerity on their part and, believe me, they're not only out there, they look and feel human...

     

    Of course everyone lies - even to the point of putting national security at risk to hide the fact that they're sleeping with some one. Politicians do anything - including killing off witnesses to get elected. Only alcholics or those with major personal demons populate this realistic society. Nobody ever smiles, nobody ever experiences happiness.

     

    I hate to sound like a broken record but this sounds somewhat akin to human history since the dawn of time. Yes, there are moments of sublime joy and smiles but everyone wrestles with their personal demons even if it is behind closed doors.

     

    If religion exists - it is new age and/or animistic. Because we all know that is the only kind of religion that exists.

     

    Well, what about the fascinating theme of the Cylon's 'one true God' versus the more pagan polytheistic Lords of Kobol? I'm following this development with baited breath.

     

     

    Just once I would like to see someone on that show that was "normal".

     

    Perhaps they will develop the budding romance between the President's young aide and the young woman in C&C but I think it's important to remember that we are meant to be witnessing humanity at war. Europe during World War II was pervaded with an overriding atmosphere of distrust, fear and terror. It seeped into everyone's lives to the point that you could taste it. That's what's on the table here.

     

     

    To be honest, I have to wonder why these people are even fighting to stay alive since life is apparently such a dark miserable experience to begin with.

     

    Because no one chooses the alternative no matter how 'dysfunctional' they are. It's the nature of the beast.

     

     

    The only real positive thing I can say about it is - it is visually appealing and they use music well with their panoramic shots.

     

    Actually, I misspoke it is only visually appealing to a point - I personally don't like monochromatic shows - CSI:NY is the same way.

     

    And here it is I thought we could agree on something. :dude: :)

     

    Everyone's a better actor than Dirk Benedict.

     

    There you go! We do agree on something!!! :)

     

    And I would still like to see the stats that combine the first and second runs of each of the Friday night shows before I'll believe that BSG is really the more popular - in other words the Nielsens' only measures the first run.

     

    Since Validus already addressed this, no need to be redundant.

     

     

    And what about those of us who fall asleep in front of the tv?

     

    :idea31: I'd be happy to brew you a cup of tea.

     

    I fall somewhere between the two views; I agree with some of what both Proto-type and TUH have said.

     

    I really like the show and will continue to watch it, and I agree that it is very visually appealing. Number 6 could be a decent character if they gave her more to do (other than the obvious  :lol: ), but Dr Baltar continues to get on my... last... nerve. If that character were eliminated, the show would be better for it, IMO.

     

    I also don't care for the changes made to the openening music this season. It was already good; it didn't need to be altered to that loud wailing... or whatever.

     

    I wouldn't compare it to Trek as they're completely different in execution. I like both styles in different ways.

    341309[/snapback]

     

    You make some interesting points, some I agree with, others I don't. Looks like we have that in common. :)

     

     

    I also do not like the changes they have made in the opening music this season. At least they haven't touched the Taeko drums during the battle scenes!!!

     

    I know that the relationship between Number 6 and Baltar can get a bit tedious but, in real life, these relationships are superficial and transparent to everyone else but those two 'on the inside'.

  11. Posted

    It's live!!!

     

    Recorded live, that is. :lol:

     

     

     

    And it's my favorite Star Trek recording (Cd) of all time!

     

     

    SPOCK VS. Q starring, of course, the ineffable Leonard Nimoy and the incorrigible John de Lancie!

     

    For the benefit of those who might not be so familiar, I will elaborate.

     

    In SPOCK VS. Q, Leonard Nimoy and John de Lancie once again bring their characters to glorious life in the most lively and entertaining debate since Nixon vs. Kennedy. Recorded in front of a live audience (1999), it is the ultimate confrontation between chaos and logic.

     

     

    Here's the premise (and I know it sounds like Armaggedon or Deep Impact but neither of them had Spock and Q in the mix!) :lol:

     

     

    As the end of the twentieth century nears, an asteroid is hurtling towards Earth. When it hits the impact will result in the end of all life on the planet.

     

    Ambassador Spock travels back in time to subtly warn Earth's inhabitants of impending doom while calling into question humanity's priorities. However, before the truth is told, the all-powerful being Q appears and reminds Spock that he is prohibited from interfering in Earth's history. Besides, Q doesn't see mankind as something worth saving.

     

    This initial encounter between the two legendary characters explodes into a battle of wits as Spock cleverly befuddles Q with his own words. As barbs are exchanged, and humanity's flaws and wonders are laid bare, Spock's logic just may convince Q that humans are indeed a species worthy of salvation, but will he be too late?

     

     

    Because it is a live recording, it is filled with electricity and improvisation. In my opinion, it is Spock and Q at their best and who didn't always dream of these two going head to head with each other?

     

     

    I was checking out Amazon.com to see about availability and, lo and behold, I didn't realize there was a sequel! :lol:

     

     

    Here's the synopsis:

     

     

    Following their debate over the fate of mankind, Spock and Q have continued their discussions over a meal. After dining, the two return to the stage to recount their repast, which included encounters with several of Spock's former shipmates. However, at the moment the two verbal sparring partners shake hands, a power surge places them in total darkness. Suddenly, Spock and Q are no longer on stage, but somewhere in deep space. As they struggle to determine what has happened, a curious personality change takes hold. Spock is overcome with giddy delight. Q is much more serious, even...logical. Masterfully performed by Leonard Nimoy and John de Lancie, this is a fascinating and often hilarious role reversal that reveals previously unknown sides of Spock and Q!

     

     

    IT SOUNDS AS GOOD AS OR BETTER THAN THE ORIGINAL!!!!

     

     

    I just wish there was a smiley for a 'happy camper'! :dude:

  12. Posted

    Here's another Shatneresque gem from my friend on the Lexx board:

     

     

    XS4Xevr wrote:

     

    William Shatner was the introductory speaker at the "AFI Achievement Award" Ceremony for George Lucas (where he was awarded the lifetime achievement award for his contributions to the "American Film Industry", Monday June 20th on the USA Channel).

     

    He walked out on the stage and started out with something like "I just love these conventions" and "STAR TREK has changed the world." With a dead silence over the crowd, he looked around and seeing the STAR WARS banners, pulled out a slip of paper from his pocket and read "Mr. Shatner, will you be the introductory speaker for the STAR WARS... " as 2 Storm Troopers came out on stage and picked him up to carry him off.

     

    He said "Wait! Wait! - I can do this!" They put him down but stood menacingly nearby. He performed a song to George Lucas "You did it ... Your Way!" A bit into it, a chorus line of Storm Troopers lined up, dancing and kicking their legs up like something outa Lexx Vegas! TREK and WARS together in unison! With Kirk as the MC!!!!

     

     

    XS4Xevr, thank you so much!!

     

    Without a doubt you've proved my point that William Shatner's true forte is self-parody.

     

    And that takes a big man!!! :lol:

     

    He is the True Toupeed One!!!

  13. Posted

    :huh: i loves those commercials with BS! :( :( (bill shatner)

    341360[/snapback]

     

    Me, too!!!

     

    But, I sure wouldn't mind seeing a whole slew of Enterprise Rent-A-Car ads featuring the OTS (One True Shatner)!!!

     

    And ones featuring both Kirk and Spock would really send me into orbit!!

     

     

    :(

  15. Posted

    Speaking of enterprise you must see the movie FREE ENTERPRISE with William Shatner playing himself. An extremely enjoyable self-parody! Shatner's forte to be sure! :(

     

     

    *That is, if you other dyed-in-the-wool Trekkies haven't already seen it?* :clap:

     

     

     

    You can look it up under The Shatner Filmography at:

     

     

    The First Church of Shatnerology

     

     

    Enjoy!!!

     

     

     

    :clap::clap: :( :huh: :( :o :b-day: :blink:

  17. Posted

    A friend of mine at the Lexx board brought this to my attention and I thought it was such an astute observation that I just had to share it.

     

     

    "What I don't understand is why Mr. Shatner keeps working for "PRICELINE" commercials?

     

    Why didn't he ever "Call ENTERPRISE -" they'll beam him up! (Seems a lot of GREAT potential ST commercials have been passed by!)"

     

     

    :(

     

    :(

  18. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

    Yes, if I could revisit some decisions I have made in my life, I would.

     

    Of course it would begin an altogether different timeline but I'm not convinced that it would be a mistake to walk another path. Hypothetically, the possibility exists that on my new timeline I would still desire another chance to revisit decisions and, thus, continue this mobius loop...forever. :(

     

    When Q gives Picard a 'look see' at his alternate past/future, we find ourselves in agreement with Picard that he would rather have his real future back. But, even though Q is quasi-omnipotent (the continuum does have the ability to limit his powers) and can play with time/timelines...are we so sure that there were not other parrallel timelines that he could have shown Jean-Luc? Timelines that could have been altered by the slightest change in happenstance on any given day? It makes me wonder if it's all so cut and dry, black and white as the writers would have us believe. :(

  19. Posted · Edited by Proto-type

    I'm still reeling from the wealth of storytelling and filmmaking that was deposited into my television treasury Friday night.

     

    And, yes, I did say filmmaking even though I know, full well, that this is just a 'lowly' television series...kind of like all the Star Trek incarnations.:wink2:

     

     

    Battlestar Galactica has become Sci-Fi Channel's flagship and rightly so.

     

    The gritty, jump-cut shots give the viewer the sense that the hand-held camera is right on their own shoulder powerfully imbuing the series with an immediacy rarely experienced in the sci-fi television genre. It has become an intrinsic signature of the show and makes for an explosive and visceral viewing experience. Watching this show is not a passive activity but a reactive one.

     

    Ronald D. Moore proves that less is more when it comes to character development and dialogue. His succinct transmittal of essential yet revealing information regarding his myriad of characters is truly masterful. We sit on the edge of our seats, waiting for the gold nuggets of personal pasts and intertwined intimacies, which his characters never fail to deliver with nuances recognizable for their sheer, true humanity.

     

    If he continues to steer the helm of the fleet, Ronald Moore will achieve iconic stature in the realm of science fiction series/film. It is this writer's opinion that Battlestar Galactica will not only rival but surpass every previous sci-fi series, in both the number of seasons produced and the breadth and depth of it's scope, setting a new high watermark for all sci-fi to come.