And here we go

I was right, I completely undersold The Dark Knight. It's a masterpiece, in which the narrative is told in beautiful frame after frame. The scenes are cut fast and the sequences packed with tension and detail, you have to stay locked in; you blink and you missed something.


The story comes at you--fast--wave after wave and you'll find it difficult to breathe, but that's the kind of suspense I've been begging for. It's mostly unpredicted, and when you know something's coming you're supposed to and that put me in an emotional state that was surprising. The dialogue is incredible, nearly every comment has a deeper meaning underneath it all, and I know I didn't catch all of it (thank the world for multiple screenings). There's a number of times where Batman is in one place, the action is in another and the villain is across town, laughing at them as they scramble and try to figure it all out. Sub-characters, like Alfred and Fox, keep you and Bruce just above insanity, too much of The Joker can be a real bad thing. But its The Joker that makes this film everything it is.


Heath Ledger's performance steals every frame. There's two points of dialogue that get you to the core and you understand him, who he is and why he exists. If you're going out to see Heath, he's not in this movie, he delivers such a powerful performance its unrecognizable. He's been replaced by a madman, posing questions to you that cut deep into your very nature. As he taunts his victims, it's like he's taunting you. Teasing you and seeing if you'll break, not for any material gain, but because he likes the sport. There's no logical process, but there's a plan and he's one step ahead of everyone else. I found myself leaning in every time The Joker appeared on screen, just to catch another one liner or sly comment on what everyone else's problem is. This isn't The Joker I knew from the comic, the face paint throws me off, but his psychology is familiar; this is the epic villain, comic book adaptations have been waiting for.


You can take this film on its surface, it lets you, but you wouldn't be accepting it for what it really is. It's an epic film because its universal and relatable, it asks big questions in short scenes. There's situations where you have to ask yourself, what would you do, and that answer may surprise (or frighten) you. It invites you to find things, perhaps you wish, you didn't know about yourself. (I did, and that's why I'm going again in 6 hours!)

Starting Tonight...

The day has arrived. At midnight, The Dark Knight hits theaters across the country and the nation will be re-introduced to Batman. And to be honest, for as much as I've done I still think I'm underselling it. All the people I've talked to and all the things I've said about the feature, I don't think I've found the words to appropriately discuss how powerful this is going to be. And not just for the comic book genre, that's an added bonus, but for the film industry. I've waited and waited for a time when content was king, in the summer again. The summer has become a series of popcorn movies; "fun", "amusing", and "entertaining" have been the words to describe them. And I've wanted "compelling", "powerful" and "compelling" to dominate the silver screen. Finally, that day has arrived and the Knight will be Dark.

Cinemablend
An ensemble political thriller as much as it is a tale of revenge and derring-do, The Dark Knight is a wondrous, terrifying epic.

Film School Rejects
"What I will say is that The Dark Knight is easily the most well-crafted superhero movie that I have ever seen, one that transcends genre, on a scale that is as epic as they come and with performances that will shake you to your core."

IGN
"The great triumph of The Dark Knight is that it manages for the first time ever in the history of the genre to transplant comic book theatrics into the real world – and moreover, to examine precisely what it could mean if a person decided to strap on a super-suit and start attacking the world's criminals."

Rolling Stone
"The haunting and visionary Dark Knight soars on the wings of untamed imagination."

Variety
"An ambitious, full-bodied crime epic of gratifying scope and moral complexity, this is seriously brainy pop entertainment that satisfies every expectation raised by its hit predecessor and then some."

5 Reasons Why The Dark Knight Will Be A Revolution

In no particular order, below is my list of reasons why I have so much conviction for this upcoming film. All of it can be attributed to me being on set but there's something else about this one, something special. Based on my experience and what I knew of the film before the viral marketing, interviews, and trailers---the stuff I got while on "RFK" this is going to be a groundbreaking.

1. Heath Ledger

Clearly taken before his prime, Heath immersed himself in this role. I got a chance to see Heath in Chicago, during the mass panic scene in the trailer(s). Without giving too much away, The Joker is in that scene and as you may of guessed he's the reason for all the running and screaming. At the beginning, I'm standing at the corner watching the speech, and by the end, the Joker is awkwardly hiding behind the same lamp post. He had a number of poses and he tried a few things, attempting to hide--think Bugs Bunny outsmarting Elmer Fudd. During one of the breaks he was reported skipping through the street, whether or not that was part of the final cut, we'll see, but it "put a smile on [my] face". Just to clear the air, from what I saw, he was having a great time being something he was not... you know... acting.

2. Aaron Eckhart

Aaron is also in that scene and he seemed a bit "always in character", very focused, but there was those moments where he was taking pictures of surrounding buildings. It seemed like a tourist, like he's never been in Chicago before. He was talking to a few of the extras, production crew, and all-in-all enjoying himself. After each take, he was almost always with Christopher Nolan looking at the scene they just shot. Judging by his previous work, Aaron can be a convincing 'white knight' for the city of Gotham and he can play a very real Harvey Two Face like we've never seen on film.

3. Christian Bale

Already proven, Bale has provided the depth for the three main characters the film demands. The first role, is that of Bruce Wayne, billionaire playboy philanthropist which is merely a facade for the paparazzi to glaze over. The second role, is of Bruce Wayne again, but of another kind. Alfred's Bruce Wayne, Henri Ducard's apprentice, Rachel Dawes' love interest, the real Bruce Wayne--the one he can't show anyone else because it makes him vulnerable and human. And last, but certainly not least, is Batman. Bruce Wayne's outlet and means to deal with the death of his parents, the symbol he hopes that will inspire the citizens of Gotham. I have no doubt Bale getting back into that role is like riding a bike or getting in a familiar uniform. These three characters are going to be revisited and expanded upon, like only Bale can embody.

4. Christopher Nolan & Co.

The creative team that created the first are back again, with a new part to their story of Batman. The dark, grittier Gotham is a product of their imagination, the Tumbler, the suit, and the tone is of their creation. Goyer and Nolan each have a list of credibility in their own right, but together is unimaginable. Only with the world they've created can The Joker's true nature be envisioned. Sourcing material like The Dark Knight Returns, Hush, The Killing Joke, and The Long Halloween, will definitely provide a very different Batman than we've seen before Nolan took over. For them to sit down and craft the next chapter can only result in great things. To explore the ramifications of what one has created is a designer's dream. Added to context of a comic-book adaption is nothing short of brilliance.

5. Gotham/Chicago

The stage of a comic is difficult to find, the limitations of the real word prevent most images from transferring over. But the Chicago Film Office gave this creative team the freedom to do as they believed was possible. I was working late one evening, walking through the city, I was forced to take a detour from my normal route. LaSalle St. was blocked off and I knew filming was going on, so I asked what was the big scene. One of the familiar staging assistants said there was going to be an explosion, then he whispered to me they were going to flip a semi. As my eyes lit up, he reassured me. "Yeah, flip a semi, head over heels." This on top of shutting down CTA stations, sectioning off four blocks of Randolph, tapering off the Michigan Ave. bridge, and demolishing an abandon candy factory confirms they could do every image on their production still without CGI; the comic adaption would be real putting Chicago back in the limelight.

5 reasons why The Dark Knight will be epic.

1. Gotham’s Hero. Enter Batman: A city’s first son sets out to inspire the citizens to take their city back after the loss of his parents. Listen closely to the dialogue; hear what is being said to Bruce Wayne. His conversations with Henri Ducard shape the man that he is to become. When he talks to Alfred, the only person that knows who he truly is, he talks about what his intentions are and the symbol he wants to be. What separates Batman from everyone one else? [Bonus: Don't miss the conversation with Gordon at the end.]

2. The Escalation. Enter the Joker: A sadistic madman with a taste for the theatrical. Focus on the laugh and how sinister his promise is, as the symbol for Batman is destroyed. What must Batman escalate to, to stop a narcissistic sociopath like this?

3. The Villain. Pay close attention to how the Joker changes in just the trailer itself. From "only knives and lint" to a machine gun aggressor screaming "hit me". Easily the most telling of the trailers released, this is a sense of the board and the chess pieces. Can Batman keep his order or will he break his rules to save the city from chaos?

4. Gotham's White Knight. Enter Harvey Dent: The city’s advocate is out to purge the city of violence and corruption. Battling organized crime without breaking the law, the people of Gotham pit him against the terrorism that Batman employs to scare the mob. The citizens demand the identity of a vigilante to end the streak of escalated violence, but the new DA needs him to drag in those he can't touch. Can Harvey Dent defend Batman long enough to bring the Falcone crime family to justice?

5. The Darkest Hour. Let the games begin; Dent's systematic removal of violence, Batman's aggravated war on crime, and Joker's need for disorder force these three to collide on the streets of Gotham. How does Batman take on a man’s sick agenda to tear the world around him? Can Harvey Dent reign in a new corruption free city that no longer needs Batman? As flesh and blood, can be trusted to the throne of Gotham?

You couldn't be as excited as I am, but this thrill ride will ultimately be about a basic human condition. Underneath all the beautiful explosions is a question about the nature of man; are we more evil than good? Or does our conscious give us ability to choose what is right over what is wrong? And finally, do we have the strength to do what is needed, when the time to do so is upon us?

Batmap! & Batlinks!

As you can probably tell, I'm excited for The Dark Knight. I've got my little countdown here...



Today is the first official day of Dark Knight Week and all the Film sites are in a frenzy. Film School Reject's have posted their Guide to the Dark Knight, for a bit of background information. Think of it as the terrain Christopher Nolan has embarked on to make this film as epic as it should be. If you plan on venturing into Chicago for a viewing, may I suggest a little map--it's a guide through the streets of Chicago as depicted in Nolan's vision of Gotham. Another incentive to be at Navy Pier, the Tumbler and Batpod, they will be there at The Dark Knight Gala.

I'm sure it comes as no surprise, but I have 3 viewings already set and confirmed. Only one being in IMAX, which I have to heavily suggest. IMAX is the next generation format, its (a very large) open door to a world that the film provides. Especially with a film like this, the city of Gotham must surround you to get the bulk of the experience. Theaters will be playing for 72 hours straight, and I must stress many have been already sold out.

But to achieve the whole experience, you must get into the viral marketing campaign. I know many have tried to stay clear of this but I assure you, this is not just a cheap ploy. The clips add to bits and parts not explored on screen. They add additional plot points and fanfare to the the story that is about to unfold. The marketing team has kept consistency amongst all characters and provided more viewpoints on Harvey Dent, Batman and of course, the Joker. We've already heard the film is going to be "epic" but these little scenes let the film reach beyond the screen and into our world, making it something we all can be a part of. I'm sure most of you caught the 6 minute prologue (it's on the Batman Begins Blu-Ray too, in beautiful Hi-Def!) but the GCN has a "breaking news" story during an interview with Harvey Dent. Warner Bros. have done a great job in marketing. Be sure to check out all the TV spots/interviews/trailers at TrailerAddict.com, stay industry current with Film School Rejects and /Films, and get the inside/unofficial scoop at The Dark Knight - Unofficial Blog.

*****

Below is the list of all the viral marketing websites, all of which have been marked by the Joker:

ACME Security System
Betty's House Of Pies
Citizens For Batman
Concerned Citizens For A Better Gotham
Dana Worthington
Gina Tortericci
Gotham Cab Company
Gotham Cable News
Gotham City Clerk
Gotham City Pizzeria
Gotham City Rail
Gotham Election Board
Gotham Ferry System
Gotham National Bank
Gotham Police Department
Gotham Police Internal Affairs Department
Gotham Times
The Gotham Unified School District
Gotham Victims Advocate Foundation
Harvey Dent
Joseph Candoloro & Associates
Maiden Avenue Report
Kinsly Travel
Maroni Imports
Pasquale's Bistro
Rossi's Delicatessen
St. Swithuns Catholic Church
Trust Garcetti
We Are The Answer

And when you put the puzzle pieces together, you get to a special surprise by Warner Bros.

All of which, were reported to, have been sold within the hour.

"It's all... part of the plan."

I'm just spitballing here, but I think I might know what's up. All the dates/places have been covered on the Batmobile/Batpod Tour except the last two locations of the list posted by Film School Rejects. Those two locations are in Chicago and New York, the coordinates on the previous post.

We might get a live Bat(vehicle) appearance at these two locations. Especially, if it'll be broadcasting LIVE. Yeah, this is definitely going to be something special.

(Specifically Chicago)
Also note, that location is Wacker Drive. Pretty big for the movie already, there's so many clips have been taken from there, but there's also a scene where The Dark Knight is on the Sears Tower overlooking the view. Now, those coordinates (after you google map it) point to a park just northwest of the Sears Tower. So if you looked up at the Sears Tower, and Batman was still there, he'd be looking down at us.

That last part is a bit far-fetched but the excitement for this film has made me a bit crazy. Less than 6½ hours away, we'll find out soon...

Take A Stand!

Sometimes, you have to take a stand. You have to fight for respect. You have to let the entire world know you're here.

On July 8th, nobody will be able to ignore us. Gather at the above coordinates at the appointed time, and help us take a stand in support of Batman!

If you can't join us on the ground, we'll be providing a way for you to watch what goes down, live on this website.

Defend Gotham! Defend Batman!

Just adding fuel to the (TDK) fire...

Going into this long weekend, I wanted to leave all of you with something particularly special. More than likely, the link won't last long so catch this if you absolutely can't resist the wait. It's the first 6 minutes of The Dark Knight, which was shown in (beautiful) IMAX. Enjoy if you must.

http://www.iklipz.com/MovieDetail.aspx?MovieID=650c07ac-6d27-4b3d-986d-732c5a770a45&PlayMovie=true

Play, if you must...

*Updated!
Told you it wouldn't last long... but here's another link. Don't expect this one to last long either.

Seriously... can't wait!

I'm completely immersed in Dark Knight Mania, and you should to. Below is a click to help you get there from IGN's First Look: The Dark Knight.

New TDK Poster!

I'm a man of my word...

This marketing team has done an incredible job. As if there was not enough hype already for the film after the first one, they keep releasing more and more stuff for me to post. 3 Trailers, 1 extended international, viral marketing websites, 8 TV spots, 5 promos... completely weaving our world with theirs. They've expanded this story beyond the screen already and the film has not even been release yet.

Another set of stars for The Dark Knight

I have no doubt this film is going to be perfect. Upon the release of this film, Christopher Nolan will have completed 3-year long journey to craft a story both relevant to our world and progressive to the comic. Comic adaptions up to this point all have been just that; adaptions, stories already told, told again. From being on set, to seeing the clips/stills and exclusive footage, after analyzing the world that has been created, I see all the pieces of the formula in place. Looking over their source material, I can only see a great film. Nolan and company have done their research and their methodology will produce a comic book film, instead of movie, like no other. Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk were steps in the right direction, but their villains lacked a certain something--something unrealistic. They belong only to the comic world, but The Joker is timeless because he has basic human flaws. Flaws that we can see in ourselves if we stared into the mirror a bit too long. Flaws that would unravel us after one bad day. Flaws that would drive us psychotic if given too much attention.

I'm calling it now...

It will be the first comic book adaption that receives an Oscar!

"I don't want to kill you..."

"You complete me."

*****
ign.com
slashfilm.com
trailerAddict.com
The Dark Knight: The Unofficial Movie Blog
And everyone else... Kevin Smith, Rolling Stone Magazine... et cetera.

More than meets the eye...

I've been going through my blog recently, and I've noticed (among other things) it's rather Dark—like Dark Knight-ish Dark. I'm an avid reader of other blogs and it's just not very marketable to write only during the rough times. Although one can argue, it is those moments that try us, that inspire us to write. But as of late, I've not shared any good news. Beyond my blog perception, I'm a pretty optimistic individual and I think it's time for this blog to get back to its original intention… self-expression, negative as well as positive. Thank you for continuing to read, those of you that have stayed; to the others, welcome back!

So the reference I made before, The Dark Knight… Yeah, I was on the set of it, as an extra. Pretty cool, huh, I'm not going to disclose any spoilers… sorry but not on this public forum. If you want to know the details of the shot, shoot me an e-mail or just ask. But remember it is spoiler-ish. But what I can say is, I enjoyed being on set. Just watching how everything works, how a movie gets made, only give me more appreciation to the film. Take after take, it's not easy, but I think that when we see the final product it will be all worth it. Hopefully, I positioned myself in some viewable spots and get a little face time on the camera. But that wasn't my intention going out. I wanted to be a part of something that I enjoy, no harm in that—and I definitely got to be a part of it.

And of course, here are some bragging rights…

I got to see Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Rachel Dawes), Anthony Michael Hall, Heath Ledger (The Joker), Christopher Nolan (The Director), and Gary Oldman (Lt. James Gordon) amongst 900+ extras... did someone say mass panic? It was awesome.

The Dark Knight - Teaser Trailer

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America is dead.

I saw Transformers on Monday [I caught the 8:00 PM show at AMC River East 21]… I thought it was awesome, good action [as only Michael Bay can deliver], and you can't go wrong with Steven Spielberg as an executive producer. It will probably be a bigger blockbuster, but I still believe Live Free or Die Hard is better film. And the reason for that is because the interpretation of Optimus Prime comes off as a protector, a god-like complex—which happens to overshadow Shia Labeouf ascendancy; whereas John McClane is just an everyman that becomes a hero because it is needed. What happens to John McClane time and time again happens to Shia but he's got big-ass robots behind his back to help him out. Both films discuss the idea that there is a hero in every individual and that’s what makes them good films.

Today, as Americans, we celebrate our independence day. July 4, marks the official day of United States of America, but there’s something wrong with this picture. 1776 is quite different than the country we see around us. For Michael Moore’s Sicko, the tag line is “What seems to be the problem?” Long gone are the days of hapless fun, barbecues and fireworks. These moments still occur, but let’s face it, it’s not like it was in the 90’s. In a post 9-11 world, the red, white and blue is a bit faded. Not so bold and true, as they once were. We celebrate our independence, but I believe this country has forgotten what it means to be American.

Ever the augment, media [movies, music, and associated press] do not define a country. As designers, as intellectuals, filmmakers and artists alike convey messages in our work. It’s one thing to express the sentiments of ourselves; it’s another playing field when we try to express the feelings of another or of others as a whole. As of late, the films produced have had an underlying trend, “there is something terribly wrong with this country, isn’t there?” [V for Vendetta]

Tomorrow, on comic book stores and stands everywhere, fan-boys, patriots and citizens alike bury Captain America. The idealistic patriot has died. The Sentinel of Liberty was assassinated on the steps of Federal Courthouse, he was put on trail after he defied the governments Registration Act requiring all citizens with supernatural abilities to register their personal information—thereby putting themselves and those they know in the line of fire. Every since his first issue, he has been a symbol of this country.

Brandishing the American Flag across his chest, he was the shining shield of these United States. Tomorrow the last issue of a five-part series entitled “Fallen Son: Death of Captain America” wraps-up. The chapter titles are based on the five stages of grief:

Denial

Anger

Bargaining

Depression

Acceptance

This series is unbelievable; it takes the audience through the loss of a hero, through the eyes of his friends [Wolverine, Iron Man, the Avengers, Spider-Man, etc]. The last issue is said to answer the question, “How does a nation stand without its hero?” I suspect it will be like the last two movies I’ve reviewed: there is a hero within us all and it’s the only thing keeping hope alive.

marvel.com has provided notes for the last issue.
Link:[http://www.marvel.com/news/comicstories.1262]

ign.com has provided a good interview with Jeph Loeb, writer of this epic series. Link:[http://comics.ign.com/articles/801/801414p1.html]

Live Free or Die Hard

I saw Live Free or Die Hard last night; well… technically it was this morning. You know the midnight show thang. I thought it was good, entertaining to say the least. Most of the action is over-the-top, but then again that’s why we go… to see an everyman kill some people. And it still remains true; the world needs John McClane (Bruce Willis). I’ve been mulling over something for a while and this related so well, I figure now’s a good time to talk about it.

*Disclaimer* Don’t worry there aren’t any spoilers, I wouldn’t do that to you. *Disclaimer*

There’s a scene where Matt Farrell (Justin Long, the Mac Guy) is having a panic attack, its right at the beginning and he says “I’m just not that guy.” He’s talking heroics and how he’s different than John McClane because he’s… well… he’s “just not that guy.” And John has a little speech I’m not going to repeat because I’ll butcher the dialogue (and it is done so very well), but the point is he (John) is just who he is by nature. Nothing special, he didn’t go and take special classes for this stuff… it’s just him and who he is. He goes and says more in the speech I’m not going to repeat out of fear that I may crucify the script. Either way, that scene made a definite impression on me and the theme appears throughout the film.

If I could just Live Free, I wouldn’t have all these complications in my life. I’m finding it difficult to be happy (or maybe, its content) with my choices. As a given, if I didn’t have a million things stressing me out then life would be much easier. Maybe I’m making it all too difficult, doesn’t seem like any one else carries this much of a burden.

And if I let everything go, would I then be no longer me? Maybe if I gave up this weight I wouldn’t be who I am. Is it possible that by nature (or what I was born with, whatever you wanna say), it is my duty to carry the weight of the world? And if I decided to give up this responsibility, would I ultimately be giving up myself?

Furthermore, are there no other options? Is there no gray area, some in-between? Option C?
Is that then the choice… to Live Free or Die Hard?

Pirates of The Caribbean - At World's End

Just stopping in for a quickie… I saw Pirates of the Caribbean – At World’s End last night. I enjoyed it, it wasn’t as complex as the others but that’s okay… maybe that part of itself will show through after the viewings I have lined up. Most of it was predictable to me, but that’s just me.

There are a few parts in the movie that struck a cord with me. Stemming from my last post, about being a fan of your significant other and how that’s the only way to be, I think there’s a great example of that in the film. Actually, the moment happens twice, but I won’t spoil it for you. There was another commentary about relationships that I also wanted to note. Making a major decision without your significant others knowledge, and does it automatically lead to oneself not being trustworthy from the perspective of your significant other? I haven’t really decided on what I think about this, but it’s brought up in the film. You know how Elizabeth Swann handcuffs Captain Jack to the Black Pearl at the end of Deadman’s Chest to send him to Davy Jones’ locker… well it’s obvious someone was gonna address it, but long story short it gets brought up. At the heart of Pirates, if it isn’t obvious, it’s a story about love… love for the sea, love for another, love for oneself (not necessarily in that order, but that could be something interesting to explore). Either way, just wanted to give a heads up and make sure everyone was looking out for that. Oh, and there’s a little thang after the credits, like the rest of the Pirates films.

I’ll probably post some more text after another a couple of viewings, this was just some initial stuff.

Hanged

Hey all, sorry I've been MIA, but I’m back. “Coincidence? I think not.” This Linkin Park CD comes at a good time for me, as their CDs always have. Their sound is different, but I find it still calming. Initially, I like “Leave Out All The Rest,” “Shadow Of The Day,” and “Hands Held High,” as my top favorites. That’s just my little shout-out, moving forward.

Recently, I just got into a discussion about self-sacrifice. We were talking about Spider-Man 3 and how as an attribute of an individual willing to self-sacrifice, that individual doesn’t ask for any help. They just bear the weight of the world on their shoulders, ask no questions and take no aid. I argued it wasn’t in Spider-Man’s character, as a self sacrifice-r to ask. You don’t see Batman asking for help, nope, he believes it’s his responsibility to do it. [He takes Robin’s aid, but only to train him, to be his successor] Thus the Spider-Man underlying theme “With great power comes great responsibility.” And this is because no one else is going to do it. Then, due to recent events, I was under the belief these individuals are ultimately alone. How can these individuals be truly happy if they self-sacrifice? Is it possible to be happy when you know the world isn’t? And if you’re never happy, can you achieve oneness with someone?

I think it is possible, but difficult. The only marriages I see ever lasting are those individuals that are fans of one another. [Maybe this is obvious to everyone else, but I just didn’t get it.] I think to truly be with someone, you have to be their fan first. You have to be into what they do. Beyond their exterior, doesn’t a person’s essence make them interesting? If that individual has the same drive they did before they were in a tragic scarring accident, would you still turn to leave them because of the physical features? I think the reason why people separate after accidents or arguments is because they aren’t or don’t appear to be the same person. This leads to no longer being attracted or out-of-love; however you want to phrase it. Sorry for the tangent, but what I’m trying to say is the only way self-sacrifice-rs can be with someone is if they are fan, and that someone is a fan of them. They exist in love the same way as anyone else, that’s how they can be with someone and a self-sacrifice-r. Now if you believe this, can a self-sacrifice-r be with someone that isn’t?

You don't know the half of it

Time has moved on… the rest of life has continued to pass us by. And I’ve said it before but to reiterate, the past is what makes us who we are.

So often has something happened and I’ve expect its face value as fact. Long ago, I watched movies, or listen to music, and figured it was all the art of an individual. Then looking at it once again, thought there could possibly be a bit of truth; maybe not so much suspicion but perspective. Possibly, the story told before my eyes is not fake, and is fact known only to a few individuals; and maybe something that comes off as entertaining to some, is reality to others.

My daily proceedings take me through a number of different individuals and their stories. Through these discussions, I blindly (with good reason) assume the entire story has been told. How can anyone expect an honest comment without giving honesty to begin with? Or so I would like to believe… But this is not always the case. There are a number of different reasons why people exaggerate things and I don’t have the capacity to list them all. I, myself, exaggerate for entertainment value. My story is more entertaining when exaggerated, “it’s for theatrical effect”—simply put. Sometimes my audience doesn’t have a necessary need to commit my story to memory, so what do the details really matter. There are some instances where entertainment is what everyone around you is expecting, so stand and deliver. But I suppose there’s an opposite of exaggeration.

The jist of it, or so the story goes, is all the audience wants to know. Those that skip to the end of a novel or read the cliff notes, are merely looking for the skinny. But, I’d argue what is told between two people is the slim version of most stories. I don’t think exact emotions or thoughts are actually discussed in these conversations, I suppose their meant to come out during the telling of the story. But isn’t that why we tell the exaggerated version… to make it more theatrical?

I believe what makes a movie good, as apposed to a personal story, is the fact that things happen in real-time and all emotions are conveyed. The dramatic effect that the audience feels happens at the same moment the character on screen is experiencing it. “I guess you had to be there,” applies more than ever. When someone tells a story, and the audience doesn’t respond, there’s a sense of emotion not being conveyed. Before the audience echoes of nothingness… well… I’d take a second thought because maybe…

Do Good

It’s been a while since I've written and I apologize for that, I've been staying pretty busy. I put down couple of concepts for movies and kicked off a few things. The start of school is just around the corner and I see that train coming when I close my eyes, the only thing I can do is knuckle up and prepare. So, consider this the calm before the storm, a little ode to education.

I read a quote today… well I read quotes everyday, but I’d like to share this one. “The eyes of the future are looking back at us and they are praying for us to see beyond our own time.” [Terry Tempest Williams] Take a moment to digest that… I should repeat it for good measure, but that’s not necessary. I kinda handicapped myself, because the point of a quote is to state your claim in one shot and not have to say anything else. But I vow never to be speechless so…

In whatever you choose to do in life, think about the future of this world. I was having a discussion with one of my friends… about something materialistic, commenting of the value of a product and the company it represents—it was about clothing, anti-sweatshops and buying genuine. And my other friend, not the one I was directly speaking to, says “Carl, you complain too much.” I’m aware of this, I know… but it’s because I see so much room for improvement, so much potential never actualized. It’s really quite depressing when I think about it, so maybe my defense mechanism is to complain. I ended up responding with “The world isn’t perfect.” And he quickly said “exactly!” I looked at him and said “how can you expect to change anything when you don’t know what’s wrong?” My choice of words may have been a bit off, perhaps “wrong” was not the right word to use. But that’s what I said and there was no conversation after that. And I chose not to follow through.

That choice… well let’s just say it’s lost potential. I wanted to look at him, like I was burning a hole past the innocently guilty, and beg for him to believe he can change the world. I’d never ask anyone to be on a mission alone, and this “change the world” is no exception.

At the Chicago Architecture Foundation, my 9-to-5, we took the internship high school students to the Apple Computer store on Michigan Ave [they intern at Architecture Firms, some pretty big names too]. They gave us a great lecture of business and design, how to integrate both. It was good for the students, to finally realize when a client approaches them with a design problem and how they convert that into Architecture. The presenter left us with a commercial and I’d like to share it with all of you. [Thanks for the great network of www.youtube.com for this one]



I’d like to highlight that last bit… “Because the people, who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.” Many wishfully look to the heavens and say “Save Me” [to the tune of Cartel’s song of the same name], but instead of waiting to be saved why can’t you be a saviour to the future, and the rest of this world.

Why The World Needs Superman

I totally saw Superman Returns last night, at the IMAX… and it was GREAT!!! [I’m postponing this post so some people can see it, but I definitely saw it June 27, 2006 @ 10:00 PM in 3D] Now so much discussion has led me to post about superheroes and why we/I love them so. What is it about those colorful characters flying/running around in spandex? Any normal individual that does that would get… a peculiar glance, if not a few items thrown in their general direction. Maybe it’s the zero-to-hero or the outcasts that are so much cooler than the regulars. Maybe it’s the need to escape from reality into fantasy or the need to believe in something that is quite all together impossible. Maybe we just like the good vs. evil. Or, maybe, we just like the powers.
As you’ve probably already guessed, I have a particular reason why I love these superheroes so much. I’ve been running around dubbing it the Hero’s Complex, I’m not quite sure if that’s a proper term or not, but that’s what I’m referring to it as.
The Hero’s Complex is simply a connection with a greater good/cause.

1. Save The World


2. Battle Evil


3. Leave Behind Personal Wants And Needs

Why do I love Wolverine? Because he knows he will always outlive any woman he comes across, so he cuts them off [literally and figuratively.] He also has a tendency to be the killer of his lover...
Why do I love Spider-Man? Because he puts his life on the line to save ordinary people, and because of this, has difficulty maintaining a “normal”/stable life. If Spider-Man unveils his true identity, they will kill Mary Jane Watson and any other lover for that matter.
Why do I love Batman? Because he works at night and no woman wants that. But more importantly, he does it because he can and not because he has to.
Why do I love Superman? Because he came to Earth alien, but is more human than anyone else. Putting on the human façade everyday, I mean physically putting it on, it’s something all together different than most other heroes. He’s here to show humans how to live. And like the fore mentioned superheroes, he’ll outlive all of the people he knows. This sets them behind a wall that only love can conquer. But they choose the other path; instead of giving into what they want, they do what is best for all. [And yes heroes do find love in other heroes, but many times it ends in tragedy.] And I can relate to that.

Synchronicity

So 12 has always been my lucky number and on June (06, half of 12 months) 12, 2006, I went to see an early screening of The Lake House. After the screening, I believe it to be a beautiful movie… no initial complaints (maybe a bit of understanding difficulty due to the general nature of the film… you know that whole two years apart thing but that is the case with most time travel movies). This may be because I chose to watch/enjoy this movie and not be too critical. Or maybe it was the fact that it showed/taught what I’ve been trying to teach. In fact, the whole experience showed me (and hopefully, the rest of my party) an example of something I’ve been trying to actualize. Walk with me…

*Disclaimer* None of this details are fiction, they are not exaggerated in any way *Disclaimer*

I had acquired tickets to see The Lake House from the Chicago Architecture Foundation; I was given one ticket capable of admitting two individuals. As soon as I read that I could invite someone, I thought of who would want to go and—obviously—who I wanted to go with. Many names, but no decisions were made. I spoke to my co-worker about acquiring more tickets so that I could bring all those that would want to go. I then received another ticket, now able to admit four individuals, and thirsted for more. The next time I asked I requested 10 tickets, it was taken as sarcasm… but the screening was going to be overbooked anyway and it was then “first come, first seated,” so handing out extra tickets would simply be meaningless. Nevertheless, my request was granted but I waited until 6/09/2006 before I received them (simply out of courtesy). I then asked individuals to attend this movie with me and the overall census was “we don’t want to see another speed.” (This may also be due to the fact that the gentlemen I asked live in the suburbs… ladies, I don’t know if you know this but I don’t think guys want to drive for 40-60 minutes to see a chick flick, especially with other guys) I’m thinking, this is gonna be a bust, but I would be satisfied if one individual attended with me. I don’t have a problem flying solo, but I mean, who wants to go to a premier by themselves. Anyways, one person was on board, and I was content, I stopped asking. When I received the tickets on 06/09/2006, I opened my envelope to find 6 tickets. Wow… I was given 16 seats to fill (8 tickets), excited, I again posed this question to the individuals I had asked before… and a snagged a few more on board, but not enough to fill the rest of the seats. I, left an away message on my aim, but received no responses. I decided it was okay, and left it alone, 5 seats would be left unfulfilled. During the chaos of this day, I acquired another 3 movie goers… I would be filling 14 seats (1 extra ticket). Steadily approaching the movie time, a part of my party had not arrived; out of fear of missing the movie completely, I sent part of my party in to save 14 seats and fill 5 (they took 3 tickets, now I’m down to 5 tickets/10 seats). I ended up using all (5) tickets left with me, 8 people arrived (4 tickets) and I entered the theatre (1 ticket). Isn’t it interesting that I would be given 8 tickets, when I only requested 5 (7 including the two I already owned) and then to use all the tickets to get the entire party in? Watching this movie play in my head, and the relationship to the audience is unbelievable. How is it possible for a director, who I believe doesn’t know me or any of my closest companions, to film something so close to my life (even in the details) and for us to see it all together? [There are details in the movie (and also broad ideas) that directly affect/relate to my party and me.] Breathing the same air, in the same proximity, only difference being… we are all seeing the movie, but only from different views. [I do apologize for speaking in riddles, I can’t help it. And to speak plainly would be… unjust.]

Some of you may be thinking I’m making something out of nothing or over-analyzing a daily occurrence. But haven’t you ever stepped into a room and have your favorite song (at the moment) play? Or while you’re driving in the car and thinking to yourself “I want to hear this song,” and have the radio DJ put it on after the current one finishes? How about when you’re explaining a problem to a friend and you overhear someone, you have no relation to, say something as if it was a solution to your problem, but that someone just keeps walking like it wasn’t intended for you? Or have somebody give you something that you have no idea what to do with it, then it becomes the only thing that will solve an issue further down the line? Or someone you never talk to, sitting there (almost waiting for you), when you need to vent and they have already experienced what you’re going through? I mean I could simply explain it with frequency, but it happens much too often to be that. I could call it ironic, but it happens so many times it’s not comedic.

Is it possible for the world to subtly prepare for future events? I wanna know if it’s possible for the world to prepare me to cater/relate/adjust to someone or something. Someone tell me, how the world knows what difficulties I will run into and gives me the keys to the solution.

Some people like to open a blind eye and a deaf ear and call it coincidence, but I know better.