Unboxing: Loot Crate Lvl Up - July 2016

Whooo! Thought we weren't going to get this one which would have been a damn shame! This month's Loot Crate was great, but as always the Lvl Up add-on is just way better. There's more stuff from RICK AND MORTY, VOLTRON, FUTURAMA and more! Thank you for watching and hopefully these are just boring messes of vidoes... though I am still figuring out which setting work best on my new phone.

Symbolism of the Sword, Shield, & Wonder Woman in the DCEU

To say people in attendance and on the internet were hyped upon viewing the Wonder Woman trailer at Comic Con this year would be quite the understatement. Considering many viewed the character, portrayed by Gal Gadot, a standout in Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice, it comes as no surprise the trailer would be welcomed with a large amount of adoration. But you’re here because you read comics, and as a fellow comic fan, I can tell you, pleasing comic fans is no easy feat. That’s especially true when dealing with a character as iconic as Wonder Woman, who celebrates her 75^th anniversary this year. Many takes on Diana both in the long and short-run have graced media, and as such there are various interpretations of the character that can be seen as the “true Wonder Woman,” depending on who asks.

The DCEU, headed by the likes of Zack Snyder & Geoff Johns, has already come under some criticism for the take on Diana that looks to be taking center stage in both her upcoming film and as a member of the Justice League. Particularly, some are questioning the use of Diana's Sword and Shield along with/in lieu of her more traditional bracelets and Lasso of Truth.

The concerns stem from the idea that it strays far from the roots of Wonder Woman, making her more like Xena than her own character. This can be seen as a valid grievance, especially for older fans. Diana's Golden Lasso of Truth and Bracelets of Submission have been with Diana since the early days of the character and were created by Wonder Woman’s creator, William Marston as representations of the charms and emotional faculties inherent to what would be considered the premiere woman.

Typically seen as more tools of war and as more offensive weapons the sword and shield, to many, aren’t the kind of equipment Wonder Woman should be using often. However, while this feeling has merit it’s also important to realize that many are only just now learning of Wonder Woman. Some, from the more recent interpretations of the character. For some people, their Wonder Woman has always used a sword, such as the very recent Post-Flashpoint version of the character. (SPOILER ALERT) Which if you follow Rebirth, is more an evolution of the post-Crisis version. (SPOILER END)

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lGoQhFb4NM"]

Putting the “more modern/current” argument aside, I also believe that the character of Wonder Woman lends itself to the use of a sword and shield for both practical reasons and also an argument that I think gives credit to the idea of a sword as part of both what can bring elements of both her roots and present to the forefront.

Many will recall the iconic image of seeing Wonder Woman block bullets with her bracelets, from the days of Linda Carter’s time as the television take on the character. This ability makes one question the need for a shield. While, I can see the merit in this argument, it falters with the simple fact that a shield simply offers more protection easier than her bracelets do. Not having to use both hands blocking bullets or attacks also gives her more options, with her free hand.

As far as Wonder Woman’s use of the sword, ignoring the times it has come in handy in her more recent adventures; it appears as though people consider the sword to be simply a weapon for destruction. From a storytelling standpoint, a sword can be more than that, and like the Lasso and Bracelets, apply to the innate ability of a woman.

An example can be found in Part 1 of the Naruto manga. Kakashi Hatake refers to his Chidori/Lightning Blade as a blade to protect friends and loved ones. The character Kenshin Himura of the series Rurouni Kenshin carried a sword nearly incapable of killing, but still capable of doing damage, though the character only did so to protect those closest to him, having vowed not to kill again. The sword known as Tenseiga, wielded by Lord Sesshomaru from the manga InuYasha, was incapable of harming humans, but could kill beings not of the natural world, allowing it to heal rather than hurt a person.

These and other examples use the imagery of the blade not as just a tool to kill. The mere fact of a character like Wonder Woman having a sword and shield do not necessarily detract from a character like her, as long as the person doing the interpretation knows the character and what they stand for.

I understand, as a comic fan, change can be difficult to grasp, especially on a grand stage like big budget movies. When you care about a character, you want to see them represented in the best, truest way possible. Fans want the iconic elements of her character, and in a sense, women everywhere to be present and presented well, and a sword and shield can add to that imagery.

Women can be fiercely loyal and protective. That’s apparent now, more than ever, as we see women standing up and fighting—loudly for the things they hold important to them, and not even just for themselves. I have seen women of all kinds of backgrounds stand up for the rights and dignity of people different from them. I have seen women fiercely stand up for and defend people of color, Bisexual men, Transgendered individuals, Non-Binary individuals, Indigenous Peoples, and among others.

So why can’t we let that be the new symbols we attach to Wonder Woman's equipment? People like to throw out the phrase “It’s 2016” when they want to show they’re shocked about how something is happening now. Well it’s 2016. Feminine charm and love aren’t the only things women have at their disposal like they did when Diana was first created and first got her iconic Lasso and Bracelets. I’m not saying they aren’t effective, but there is more. Wonder Woman is more than what she was envisioned as and that’s not a bad thing.

If you’re a fan of Wonder Woman, you want the iconic ideals and traits of her character to be presented, and that’s fair. It’s also fair to ask you to take a step back, and try look at Wonder Woman and her chosen tools of the trade in the same way William Marston looked at her Golden Lasso and Bracelets of Submission.

Like I said, it’s 2016 and women are fighting fights everywhere in the world. Let’s embrace the idea that Wonder Woman can show that fight not with a sword swung in fury or rage, but with Athena guiding her strokes so that she might protect and aid those in need. For a modern take on Wonder Woman, isn’t that in line with her roots?

Titan Is Turning The Raid Into A Comic

I love Raid and Raid 2. They're great martial arts/action movies. They have a little bit of every action genre and that's what makes the great. They do not have great stories. The story is very simple and generic. There were massive improvements for the second film, but nothing that I would shit my pants to see in a comic book. I'm not excited about this. It will all depend on the art, but for the most part what makes Raid work is that it's a movie. I don't know why Titan is only going for licensed properties lately, but it's really not appealing to me anymore. From Titan Comics:

Titan Comics are thrilled to announce that The Raid is punching its way into comic books, in late 2016. Titan is working closely with the director Gareth Evans (The Raid, The Raid 2) and XYZ Films to develop all-new stories featuring characters from the series.

Premiering in 2011, Indonesian martial-arts movie The Raid (also known as The Raid: Redemption) sent pulses racing at the Toronto International Film Festival and secured unanimous critical praise, rocketing to cult film status across the world. 

The movie captured audiences with its boundary-pushing, inventive choreography and piston-pumping narrative where a lone, isolated SWAT team are trapped by a ruthless mobster and his army of killers and thugs inside a tenement block, and they have to fight through to the top.

Directed by Gareth Evans and produced by PT. Merantau Films and XYZ Films, the high-octane franchise has garnered great success since its release. The first film had 10 nominations at the 2012 Maya Awards. It was followed, in 2014, by The Raid 2, which featured the character of Rama returning to battle against corruption in his own police force.

“At Titan we’re thrilled to be publishing The Raid comic books,” said editor Martin Eden. “Gareth is a visionary and a huge talent. It’s a pleasure to work with him on developing his characters for the comic book page. We promise to deliver the same thrilling, fifth-gear adrenaline that fans have come to expect from the franchise.”

Titan’s The Raid comics are set to debut soon. Look out for more announcements about the creative team shortly.

Worst of 2015: Worst Comic Book Movie or TV Show

In our opinion you can't have a "Best of" list without the "Worst of" to go with it. Welcome to our worst picks of 2015. Think of it like the Razzies for comics. Each writer will make their own pick so sit back enjoy "Worst Comic Book Movie or TV Show".

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KEVIN: Avengers: Age of Ultron (Marvel Studios)

Give the ole CBMFP a listen this week to hear Kevin's pick!

STEVE: Supergirl/"Flarrow"

Vapid swill wrapped up in empty platitudes to impress the rubes.

DUSTIN: All Comic Book TV Shows (ALL)

I stopped watching everything on network tv because they're all shitty. Flash, Arrow, Supergirl, Agent's of Shield. They all suck a big one. I can't wait for Lucifer and I hope it makes it to six episodes before getting cancelled becuase it's called "Lucifer."

ASA: Gotham (Fox/WB)

Oof, what to say that has not been said before. Portraying Gotham city without Batman might work (see Gotham Academy and Gotham Central), exploring the early days of Batman might work, focusing on Batman's villains might work, but Gotham simply does not work. Trapped in the awkward intersection between the camp of the last live-action Batman tv show and the dark atmosphere of Nolan's films, Gotham diappoints on every level. Further, while I would normally not claim that staying loyal to the source material is a must for adaptations like this, it betrays the fundamental wrong-headedness of the creators that they seem incapabale of using any of the material that makes the Bat mythos so interesting. At least we got Daredevil this year.

DAVID: Gotham (Fox/WB)

I cannot stand this show. The first season was so bad that I couldn't bring myself to return for the second entry, especially when other comic-book shows with a similar tone such as Daredevil and Jessica Jones are so superior in every way. FOX have taken the fantastic source material (Brubaker and Rucka's Gotham Central) and stripped it of anything interesting or believable. How anyone is still left to defend this mess of a show is beyond me.

Best of 2015: Best Comic Book Movie or TV Show

Welcome to our end of the year list! Unlike other sites, we give all of our writers the opportunity to make their own picks. What you'll read below and on the rest of the site is a list of each individual writer's picks. As much as we like making our choices, we love hearing yours so let us know what you'd pick for the "Best Comic Book Movie or TV Show" below in the comments.

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KEVIN: Daredevil (Marvel Studios/Netflix)

Listen to Kevin talk about Daredevil on this week's episode of the CBMFP!

ASA: Daredevil (Marvel Studios/Netflix)

In my humble opinion, prior to 'Daredevil' there had never been an excellent superhero tv show. While the CW may have popularized the concept with its candy-colored soap operas, Daredevil legitimized the superhero show in one week of madcap binging. Paced like a highbrow premium cable show, Daredevil incorporated all of the grit and characterization that have made the comic a fan-favorite. Perfectly cast and containing the MCU's first truly memorable villain, Netflix's first Marvel show soared to new heights. Further, perhaps most cheeringly, the show managed to achieve this quality without compromising on any of the comic's most important qualities.

JAMES: Daredevil (Marvel Studios/Netflix)

Daredevil was beautiful, magnificent and well done on almost every single level. The fictional "New York" in this show is becoming a real place to me filled with supers and hardcore baddies. I can only hope that it continues to impress. It is rare to have a show where you can feel for both the good and the bad alike. It feels complete. Daredevil has brought a gritty realism to a comic live action show where so many others have failed.

STEVE: Jessica Jones (Marvel Studios/Netflix)

While slow and repetitive at points, this series had great writing and some of the best use of framing I've seen on TV all damn year. It actually made me want to go back and read Bendis' Alias, which, given how little I like reading that particular chatty-cathy of a writer, is saying a lot. This is the superhero show we deserve, and makes everything on the CW/CBS - especially Supergirl - look like the trash it really is.

DAVID: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. (Marvel Studios/ABC)

Of course Daredevil and Jessica Jones were fantastic shows, I wouldn't argue anything otherwise. However, I feel like Marvel Studios' first foray into the world of television needs someone fighting in its corner as well. I'll be the first to admit that the first season of Agents of SHIELD was mediocre at best, but with season two the show really came into its own. The characters grew into genuinely interesting personalities, while the plot was more engaging than ever with twists and turns aplenty. Season 3 is yet to make its way to the UK, although from what I've heard the show is stronger than ever - easy to believe considering just how exciting the Season 2 finale ended up being. Those who understandably gave up on this show during its weak first season, I hope will come back and give Agents of SHIELD a second chance.

AUSTIN: One Punch Man (Viz/Madhouse)

I have been enjoying Jessica Jones. Daredevil was a huge deal for me, since he's my favorite superhero ever and a decent live-action adaptation was a long-time coming. But the One Punch Man anime adaptation is the most fun I have had watching anything in years. From the scorching opening theme, to the high production quality, to simply getting to watch Murata's punishingly superior art come to life in real-time, this show is killer.

DUSTIN: One Punch Man (Viz/Madhouse)

I was actually surprised by this one. Over the years I've made a rule for myself, that if I begin with the manga, I don't watch the anime. I couldn't help myself on this one and I'm glad I did because I love the anime. Be it for some different reasons than the manga, but I love it. Madhouse also redeemed themselves in my opinion after delivering some sloppy shit previously.

Trailer Time: Recently My Sister Is Unusual... Live-Action

If you haven't heard of Recently, My Sister is Unusual then where have you been? It's an anime that has stirred up controversy in Japan and before its fifth episode aired it already had a live-action version. Apparently that live-action version has already filmed and is now set to be released. Crazy right? The story is about possession, chastity belts, a step brother and sister having romance and girl on girl romance. I haven't watched all of the anime, but it's okay. I wouldn't say that it's my favorite thing to watch, but it does make me laugh when they cut away from anything graphic and it suddenly becomes an ergo video game. The point is, people know what this thing is. Soft porn. Well this trailer knows what it is as well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DQi37ZLafIY

Felicia Day Sneaks Lying Cat Onto Another Supernatural Episode

Maybe this is old news, but I finally watched this week's episode of Supernatural which guest starts Felicia Day in her role as Charlie. The first thing I noticed was that she was using a Surface which are very popular on CW shows (Arrow can't go an episode without one!) and I guess while everyone else was tuning out at the obvious market placement, I catch a glimpse of Day's login picture. Yup, Lying Cat again! There's also a Tolkien reference, but that's actually mentioned in the episode. I guess Lying Cat is like her show trademark or something, but I doubt we'll see her on the show any time soon given where the storyline went. Still, interesting that they did it twice.

SDCC '13: Toynami's Exclusives

Toynami will be at booth #3229 this year and if you've never stopped by, you should. Sure they have some cool Hello Kitty and Street Fighter stuff, but let's be honest... it's all about the Futurama toys! Here's what they have as far as exclusives on sale at the show:

• Futurama: Destructor/Gender Bender Box Set (Limited to 2,000)
• Sanrio x Street Fighter: Hello Kitty x Akuma Plush and Badtz Maru x Ryu Plush (Limited to 1,000 each)
• Skelanimal: Harley Quinn Mini & Carrie Pony (Limited to 1,000 each)
• UNKL: Hamz Critter Plush (Limited to 1,200)

You'll Probably Be Glad That You Don't Understand This Japanese Transformers Go! Trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FY5IdrgfXAA#at=61 Transformers Go! is spinning off of Beast Hunters and it's introducing a Swordbot Samurai team... It definitely seems like it was created for the toy line because the three robots that star in the series can form three different robots depending on who the head is. I'm not making this shit up. If you deeply care about this then I would read the overly detailed article on Anime News Network, really I just wanted to confuse your brain for a few minutes why you watched Hasbro go at it with your childhood in front of your children no less.

Trailer Time: New Space Pirate Captain Harlock Trailer Is Very Cool

I really hope that this makes it to North America in some capacity. I'd prefer a theatrical release, but I'd settle for a Blu-Ray or DVD. I can't be the only one that's impressed with the CG characters, they're some of the best I've seen and honestly make the American movies Zemeckis puts out, look like shit. Enjoy the trailer that has no English subtitles, you'll still get the gist.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaDCHe6KTfo

Via Twitch