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Something Epic #1 – Is Freaking EPIC!

NI Staff
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Something Epic #1 – Is Freaking EPIC!

Something Epic #1 – Image Comics

Image and its logos are ® and © 2023 Image Comics, Inc. All rights reserved.

Creative Team: SZYMON KUDRAŃSKI

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast on Nerd Initiative!

For this entry, we are checking out a brand new series from Image Comics that is generating a huge buzz heading into New Comic Book Day. Something Epic #1 from SZYMON KUDRAŃSKI (Spawn, Punisher) has a very unique concept behind it with some fantastic visuals to match. Readers will be challenged with “Is Perception really Reality’? What is so special about fourteen-year-old Danny Dillon? Let’s take a closer look at what all the hype is about, shall we?

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Another New Series From Image Comics

The issue opens up with a woman giving birth to a young boy she names Danny Dillon. Danny is inter-monologuing about imagination as the first thing created prior to when we are born. The story speeds up to when he is a young boy. As Danny is walking in a wooded area, he looks to the sky. Flying about him is a superhero that echoes the outline of a very familiar hero.

Danny gives a great insight on the concept of imagination, perceiving it as a “gift”. Danny goes to a doctor’s office to be checked out but he is diagnosed as “normal.” The doctor claimed Dany has an “overactive imagination” due to his elevated nervous system. No matter how it is defined, Danny is a special child with a “gift”. His drawings weren’t fake, they were his depictions of real life.

Another day, Danny and his mom are having a conversation about his schooling amongst other topics. During the talk, something grabs her keys. When looking around, Danny’s mom is confused about where they are. Danny senses where they might be as he looks through a mouse hole to find them.

A Shift In Tone

The story shifts as Danny moves through the house to the basement. On this trip, he comes across two figures that he knows all too well: an animated cat named Drill and a vampire named Marcus. Danny brushes by them and even at one point (via flashback), shows them to his mother who can’t see them. Only Danny can see the characters.

This leads to Danny further breaking down his world. He can see things few others can. In his words, Energy that is, Imagination is transformed into something else. Readers are walked through a guide of Danny’s life as the things he has seen cannot be comprehended as real.

As he progresses forward, the worlds start blending a bit more as the figures are appearing more and more in the “real world”. This comes to a dramatic halt as the final act brings Danny’s life back to a grounded place with an ominous feel taking readers into the next chapter with a looming shadow lurking on the young boy’s future.

Check Out More From Image Comics HERE

Story Review

KUDRAŃSKI provides a unique tale that poses many questions of what is real vs. what is imagination. Danny’s tale starts out as any young child would. Believing in “make believe” characters isn’t that outlandish. However, the theme of perception vs. reality never leaves readers’ minds. Danny is well educated in this area as the writing portrays him in touch with the aspects of his reality.

For being so young, Danny never appears scared or rattled at what he comes across. It is a “new normal” that he has become comfortable living in. The closing of the issue brings up some theories of what is unfolding that will challenge Danny’s world. Readers will have much to decipher heading to the next chapter.

Artwork Overview

The art is stunning throughout. The use of 12 panel pages jumps out right from the start, right down to the placement of credits mixed in within said pages. The full-page panels exemplify big moments when they appear. Nothing feels overused or forced to amp up a segment. Danny’s definition of his world via 2-page full panels is what fans will resonate with the most. It is a clear picture of what Danny sees and adds more to the argument of is his perception really reality.

Danny’s reactions are different from what readers might be expecting to see. There is never a sense that there is danger or fear when these characters pop up. Danny is portrayed as completely comfortable in this world. The only time there is a sense of doubt is the final pages, which challenges readers on what they see vs. what they think they know.

FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10

The world of Danny Dillon is an eye-popping experience that will question what readers see vs. what they think. KUDRAŃSKI brings this to page with stellar artwork balanced out with a story growing by each page. The concept has only begun to step into focus, making this a book you want to keep an eye out for at the Local Comic Shops.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you think of Something Epic #1. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.

Check Out More Content From ODPH HERE

Ghostlore #1 – A New Horror

NI Staff
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Ghostlore #1 – A New Horror

Ghostlore #1 – Boom! Studios

Copyright © 2005-2020 BOOM! Entertainment, Inc

Creative Team: Cullen Bunn, Leomacs, Jason Wordie, Ed Dukeshire with guests Brian Hurtt and Bill Crabtree

Welcome to an all-new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog for the ODPH Podcast on Nerd Initiative!

For this entry, we’re checking out a brand new series by BOOM! Studios that is sure to stand out at the local comic shops on New Comic Book Day. Ghostlore #1 from Cullen Bunn, Leomacs, Jason Wordie and Ed Dukeshire with guests Brian Hurtt and Bill Crabtree, joins the ranks of BOOM!’s latest horror hits. They give us a first issue fans will be raving about. Let’s take a closer look and see what fans (and ghosts) will be talking about, shall we?

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Another New Horror Series From Boom!

Copyright © 2005-2020 BOOM! Entertainment, Inc

The series opens up with Pastor Lucas Agate preaching themes of faith to the small congregation. One quote that stands out is “believing does not require seeing”. After the service, Lucas is approached by his wife Emily. The conversation moves from mentioning the smaller audience each week for service to their children Harmony and Chris. They feel Harmony is going through a phase being an older teenager while Chris seems cut off from everyone. When Harmony is caught smoking outside the wooden church, her mother brushes it off, in an attempt to connect with her.

The story shifts gears as the family leaves the church. Lucas says Harmony can drive (even though she doesn’t have her license). Harmony pushes back saying she doesn’t need a license since she’s leaving for New York in a few years.

A Crash

The conversation moves into an argument as Harmony’s manner becomes defensive as the parents try talking with her. Behind the wheel, Harmony continues the argument and swerves out of the way of someone in the road! The car smashes into a tree leaving Lucas’s legs pinned in the front seat. Harmony tries getting her barring but is interrupted by her brother, who finally speaks up!

Copyright © 2005-2020 BOOM! Entertainment, Inc

From here, readers see that the family isn’t alone at the crash site. They have been joined by some onlookers who not everyone can see. Chris begins to narrate the next phase of this story before heading to the final moments. What does he say during this that frightens Harmony and Lucas? Readers enter a world that will shake them to their core. The ending will leave them waiting with baited breath to see what unfolds next with shocking final panels.

Horror Fan? Click HERE

Story Review

Bunn wastes no time establishing the horror aspects of this story. The beginning is a soft intro into the main players (thus far) but the issue takes off once the crash takes place. In an instant, the themes of terror and uncertainty are amplified. Harmony is a character that has much going on that hasn’t come to light yet.

Copyright © 2005-2020 BOOM! Entertainment, Inc

Even with this being only the first issue, she comes across very polarizing to the readers. This comes from the conclusion of the story, which was a big surprise in where things were initially heading. The segments with Chris play such a pivotal part in connecting the major plot points. As previously mentioned, Bunn sets up a shocking ending to the first issue that is sure to have readers talking in-between chapters.

Artwork Overview

The art brings this supernatural world to life with some very impressive imagery. The haunting feel of the series never escapes the reader. Post-crash is the panel readers will be most impacted by. There is nothing held back about what happened involving that moment in the story. Seeing the book transition into the next phase has eye-catching visuals behind it. The forest scene leaves no doubt about where things are heading.

Hurtt and Crabtree throw a solid change of pace with their portion to counter the brooding art of Leomacs, giving the readers a definitive pause for flashbacks. The closing moments build towards an emotional impact for where things are heading following this opening issue.

FINAL POINT: 8.5 OUT OF 10

Boom! Studios‘ current run of horror comics gets another winning addition added to the lineup. Bunn, Leomacs and the team bring frightening writing and haunting imagery to a debut issue that redefines what a “ghost story” is truly all about. Keep an eye out for this on New Comic Book Day. 

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of Ghostlore #1. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.

Check Out More Content From ODPH HERE

Did You Know – James Gunn Originally didn’t want Chris Pratt for Star-Lord

Mickey Smith
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Did You Know – James Gunn Originally didn’t want Chris Pratt for Star-Lord

Wait, Chris Pratt was not originally James Gunn’s first choice to play Star-Lord?? Yep!

There are so many fun, interesting backstories to how films were made, what they could have been, castings that almost happened and much more. Let’s dive into some of your favorite movies over the years and reveal some iconic details that you may have missed or stories that you never knew!

So …. Did You Know?

Bon Anniversaire! – My DisneyLand Paris Experience

Janelle Holland
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Bon Anniversaire! – My DisneyLand Paris Experience

Turning 30 this year is momental for me. Through everything that has gone on in my life,  I wanted to take the trip of a lifetime.

My parents went to Paris for many years, because my dad was a French teacher while he was still working. I never got the chance because I was too young.

Now, this year they asked what I wanted to do, a party or a trip. I chose the trip. I knew in my reach I could visit Avengers Campus in Disneyland Paris. My excitement was off the charts, and I finally can see the characters that I love so much in such a unique and meaningful place.

© Disney © MARVEL

The first thing when I arrived, was to figure out where it was. In Paris, it took a lot to even get to Disneyland. A long ride on the metro (kind of like our train system in the United States). A LOT of walking, and finally we got there.

Using the map on the Disneyland App, I found Avenger’s Campus and sprinted over. It was so nice to hear the Spiderman music as I found the entrance.

© Disney © MARVEL

In Avenger’s Campus, there is a web-shooter ride in front. I immediately got in line because I had heard so much about it, and it was a lot of fun. 

The goal of the ride, was to shoot webs like Spiderman does, in order to eliminate the bots.  It took almost a good 45 minutes of standing to get into the ride, and I was surprised how quick the ride was.

I shopped around for merchandise, but heard some of the characters were on the roof doing some action scenes. I put my stuff to the side, and ran out to go and watch it. It was so awesome to see all them interact. 

After that, I completed my purchases and walked around with my mom, while my dad stayed behind and rested for a bit.  Then I saw the most magical thing. There were HUGE statues of  Black Panther, Captain Marvel, and Iron Man that were near the hotel. I had to take a picture with each one of them. I have never seen such big statues like that. 

© Disney © MARVEL
© Disney © MARVEL
© Disney © MARVEL

One adorable interaction is that Captain America was walking around, and he said, “What’s Going on Fam?!” and was excited to see us. 

There were other opportunities for everyone to get photo ops. The Wasp was off to the side, posing with people for their pictures.

The Guardians of the Galaxy were out dancing for the crowd – Peter Quill and Gamora.

I was sad that I wasn’t able to see any of the Dora Milaje, but it was nice because the Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3 movie was coming out in just a few days. 

© Disney © MARVEL

The overall experience was amazing. There was a lot to do, and my family and I only had 24 hours to do what we wanted and then go back to the hotel. 

I definitely loved going abroad, and traveling. If I could do it all over again, I would  have asked for some more time at the park. It just was too quick for me. If you ever have the chance to visit Paris, I would definitely add Disneyland to your itinerary. It’s worth your time, and the money.  

‘Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3’ is the Cathartic, Heartfelt Ending We Needed

Pooja Chand
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‘Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3’ is the Cathartic, Heartfelt Ending We Needed

A common saying is that the only things in life that are inevitable are taxes and death. But that’s debatable, especially when you consider that all the stories in the world eventually have an ending that cannot be avoided. The new Marvel film from James Gunn, Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3, which released on May 5, 2023, is no exception to this rule. The film brings back our favorite misfit found family in what feels like a conclusive ending to years of saving the galaxy with these beloved characters. After a strange and destructive incident occurs, one of the guardians is left in critical condition. As a result, Peter Quill and the team must embark on a heist across the galaxy in order to save their friend. This review will not contain any spoilers so you are free to continue reading even if you have not yet seen the film.

Having rewatched Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 so close to the premiere of the latest installment has allowed my love of these movies and its characters to be revived in a way I didn’t think was possible. And it is without question that Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3 has managed to solidify all three Guardians films as the best and most well-rounded trilogy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Each film has approached the audience with its own story while staying consistent in pushing one central theme: Family. The topic of family is a fragile one, as it can trigger feelings of heartbreak and pain, but also evoke warm feelings of comfort and love. It is strange yet unsurprising that James Gunn manages to handle such themes in a crude yet delicate manner that works to his benefit and allows a unique representation of the Guardians. 

Throughout much of the film, we are finally given more information on Rocket, where he comes from, and how he came to exist in the galaxy. We’ve seen other characters discuss their past, whether it’s Peter Quill seeking out his biological father, or Gamora and Nebula fighting their way through their forced rivalry. But as the film dives into his backstory more, there is a horrifying realization between the characters on screen and the audience as to why Rocket keeps his past to himself. It’s important to note right now that the film does showcase animal cruelty, body horror, and childhood trauma. With that in mind, it is recommended to go in cautiously if these are triggers for you.

Through Rocket, we are introduced to Adam Warlock, a cosmic being whose alliance is not quite clear until the end of the film. But more importantly, we are also introduced to The High Evolutionary, a villain like no other that we’ve seen before in the MCU. Walking out the film after having seen Chukwudi Iwuji’s frightening performance as the High Evolutionary is an unsettling experience, despite his character not being physically intimidating or threatening. Instead, it’s the threat of dangerous ideals leading to a rather disturbing conversation of achieving perfectionism within society, something that isn’t discussed enough and but continues the MCU’s goal of encouraging the normalcy of uncomfortable conversations.

The hard-hitting aspect of this film is the completion of every single character arc and the end of an era. It’s not often that we see characters get a full circle story and yet, we are left with no major loose ends or questions left unanswered. While there is always a possibility that some characters may return if given the right story, Volume 3 does an excellent job of providing the audience a proper good-bye, just in case, and provides us a reminder that good-bye isn’t always a bad thing and doesn’t mean we won’t see someone again. Sometimes, parting ways means embarking on a new adventure that involves self-discovery, returning to your roots, embracing your past, or starting a new adventure with different people. 

It’s an emotional and bittersweet ending, but it’s one that resonates with all of us, considering it is something we all must go through in life. Life cannot remain the same for long, and it’s through the astounding performances by the entire cast that we see Peter, Gamora, Mantis, Drax, Rocket, Groot, and Nebula, at least one last time, as a family accepting the end of one story, and the beginning of something new. The best part? The classic style of comedy from James Gunn is still present to cheer you up and give you a moment to breathe and wipe your tears. Not to mention, this finale gets to go out banging with yet another dance-worthy soundtrack. After all, heartbreak and hard times cannot exist without laughter and good times. 

Overall, it’s important to mention that Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3 isn’t a “comeback” for the MCU. Instead, it is a continuation of uncomfortable themes that can be difficult to navigate, and this time, it’s with characters we love and are familiar with, but eventually have to let go of to make room for new characters and their stories. It is the heartfelt and cathartic ending we needed for a trilogy of stories centering around one of the most ridiculous found families, and we only have James Gunn to thank for this beautiful gift.

Samosa Rating:  

Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol. 3 receives 5 out of 5 Samosas. 

Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 3. is now playing in theaters.
Runtime: 2h 29m

You can watch my video containing additional thoughts with spoilers added, only on TikTok.
And for a whole other perspective containing more spoilers, check out Mickey’s thoughts here!

The Incal: Dying Star – A Review

NI Staff
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The Incal: Dying Star – A Review

The Incal: Dying Star – Humanoids

Creative Team: Dan Watters, Jon Davis-Hunt, Troy Peteri, Jake Thomas, and Rob Levin

Image Provided By: Humanoids

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay Points, the comic book review blog to the ODPH Podcast via Nerd Initiative!

For this entry, we are checking out a brand-new book from Humanoids, re-introducing fans to a universe poised for a big future. With a certain Hollywood director also signed on to adapt the project. In case you are new to this franchise, The Incal by Alejandro Jodorowsky and Jean “Moebius” Giraud made its’ debut in 1980 in the pages of Métal Hurlant.

Since that time, the series has gone on to influence many creators throughout the years with its ground-breaking visions and storytelling. Now, 43 years later, the property is still making a buzz as Taika Waititi (THOR: RAGNAROK, THOR: LOVE & THUNDER) is adapting the series as a full length major film!

With all the hype surrounding the movie, it’s a perfect time for another story to unfold from the Incalverse into new and well-versed reader’s possessions. The Incal: Dying Star by Dan Watters (The Seasons Have Teeth), Jon Davis-Hunt (Shadowman, Bloodshot: Unleashed), Troy Peteri, Jake Thomas, and Rob Levin unveil the latest installment of the franchise. Let’s take a closer look and see what’s happening here, shall we?

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

New To The Franchise?

In case you are new to this franchise, The Incal is centered around John Difool. Difool is a lesser-known detective, making his way through a nightmarish landscape when fate has other plans for him. He stumbles across an object that would change his life forever: The Incal. The journey following has been one that has had so many elements mixed in, the effect it has had on readers has never wavered after all this time.

The Latest

In this latest chapter, the story is focused around Commander Kaimann, the head of the Dying Star. Kaimann is a mutated figure who has suffered great loss when we catch up to him. Kaimann has no home world or lover as both have been eliminated. The only thing left of his crew are ghost spirits. Kaimann is broken and dealing with a losing battle with his reptilian mutation.

As this chapter begins, readers see a mysterious figure reading a story to some young children. The story comes to life as the panels focus on Kaimann flying in space alone and broken. He activates a switch and his crew appears in ghost form. Kaimann explains he has a need for them: to assist in raiding a ship with some very wealthy people on board. During the raid, Kaimann gets into a confrontation with a passenger and kills them, along with blowing up the ship shortly after. As readers find out, this was no ordinary raid. This was an act of revenge.

What’s Next?

The raid brings a reward: A syritonius Mourner (violin) which Kaimann has a belief in. As he plays, the music brings him in contact with a person who will have major implications on his next move. Her name is Aurora. Why do this pair connect? Readers find out how their paths have intersected as Kaimann is given a newfound purpose but needs to address a past that is catching up to him quickly.

The story mixes in many elements as Kaimann is desperately trying to hang on to hope while looming threats close in. There are some tragic turns mixed in that throws more obstacles in Kaimann’s way that compel the captain to be tested like never before. The best laid plans set forth start crumbling around him and the new reality he’s envisioning. Can he recover? The resolution is a bittersweet closing that will leave many possibilities for readers as Kaimann’s auctions will leave a lasting memory for all long after the final page has turned.

Check Out ‘Radiant Black’ HERE

Story Review

Watters makes Commander Kaimann a complex character with his portrayal. When readers first meet him, he comes across as a stereotypical pirate stealing from the rich. As the tale progresses, Watters gives him some valuable emotional layers to connect with the audience. Coming from his losses, Kaimann is grasping for anything to recreate his lost happiness.

The connection with Aurora makes for some unique interactions that translate throughout the chapter, building to a strong conclusion. The pacing covers many directions while adding in no shortage of violent moments bluntly bringing the despair of the people of this universe to the forefront. The ending brings the story back to square one while opening some areas to take things further should that arise with another tale involving this section of the Incalverse.

Artwork Overview

Davis-Hunt spares no expense bringing the brutality of this world when the fighting happens. Considering his previous work on Shadowman and Bloodshot, readers know Davis-Hunt has no issue delivering on these moments. The initial raid of the wealthy is a prime example of this. The swordplay is bold and bloody.

There is no gray area of how dangerous Kaimann comes across to those on board. This element carries further when actions are taken against Aurora later in the book. Those moments are not for the squeamish. The sci-fi vision of the universe is laid out to readers’ delight. There are some characters that define the homage to the original series. The closing wraps things up with some strong panels and an excellent full page one displaying a huge reveal. There’s much to enjoy from the visuals.

FINAL POINT: 8 OUT OF 10

The latest addition to Jodorowsky and Moebius makes its mark, presenting a tale that is sure to please longtime fans of this series while welcoming new ones to this universe. Watters, Davis-Hunt and the team paint a distinct vision of tragic loneliness with harsh reality as a commander tries finding hope in a bleak universe. This is one to keep an eye out for on New Comic Book Day.

Hit me up on ODPH social media and let me know what you thought of The Incal: Dying Star. Thanks for reading Parlay Points on Nerd Initiative.

Check Out More Content From ODPH HERE

War Machine! – Iron Man Armor Model 11

Derek Hoskins
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War Machine! – Iron Man Armor Model 11

Welcome to Paperweight Entertainment’s Hall of Armor! A series in which we dig deep into Iron Man’s bag of tricks.

Your weekly reminder that Tony Stark is an unrivaled genius, a futurist, and sometimes a cartoonish mad scientist who is willing to waste his fortune on outlandish upgrades to his armor!

This week we take a look at Iron Man Model 11, better known as WAR MACHINE! Did you know War Machine was originally worn by Tony Stark? Watch and find out how this armor came to be and why Rhodey has been piloting the coolest armor in comics for the last 30 years!

‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3’ Review: Family and Trauma

Mickey Smith
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‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3’ Review: Family and Trauma

Spoilers Ahead for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3!!!

They’re the frickin’ Guardians of the Galaxy and the 3rd and final(?) “Volume” of the franchise is out in theaters now.

After months of speculation of what would become of Marvel’s rag tag team of misfits and outlaws, we finally get the closure we’ve been so desperate for! I’ve seen the movie and want to express my feelings about it. So…if you have not yet seen the film, I would stop here and return later, because well, um, SPOILERS!!!

Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed the first 2 installments. They were fresh and slightly different from the MCU vibe. James Gunn’s signature was all over those movies and he really made it his own. Props to Kevin Feige and Marvel for letting Gunn do his thing and pursue his vision, making the movies he wanted to make. I say that to say that none of that has changed with Volume 3.

Gunn still expands the Guardians universe in his own unique way and it’s fantastical. It’s space. It’s aliens. It’s science fiction. It’s so many unbelievable things, but it’s still human. It’s still familiar. That’s what is so special about the Guardians.

From the outset of this films promotional tour, so much had been made of this trilogy being Rocket’s journey. Every trailer seemed to spell doom for any and all of the Guardians, but everyone was so sure that Rocket’s journey would end here. Now knowing the way everything ends, I’m happy that we got the “super duper happy ending”. This movie also really seemed to revolve heavily around the relationship, or lack thereof, between Peter and Gamora. Peter is still struggling with love lost and it effects him heavily in his relationships with his teammates including Nebula.

Speaking of which, Nebula’s character arc felt the most satisfactory to me. What a journey she has been on since her introduction in Volume 1.

The angry assassin and daughter of Thanos full of nothing but anger and resentment, to the caring matriarch of Knowhere. I don’t think I was happier for any other character than her. I’ll also never forget the tears welling up in the eyes of Drax “The Dad” when saying goodbye to his friends as he stays to help Nebula lead and nurture the children of Knowhere.

I will say that as much as I loved the happy ending, one personal gripe I had was Star Lords attempt to jump through space from the High Evolutionary’s exploding ship to Knowhere. There was so much build up and suspense in his escape that it really felt like this was gonna be it for him. After all of the speculation on character deaths, the Star Lord himself dying after so many crazy heroics and last minute escapes, it would have been poetic. I know this is fantasy, but I was for sure he had died in that moment as he floats there in open space, disfigured. To have him rescued and immediately be well enough to quip “Did that look cool?”, it really fell flat for me.

In all of the ruckus and celebration it’s hard to forget that we had two new actors playing big roles in the film.

First up is Chukwudi Iwuji as The High Evolutionary.

Chukwudi brings a powerful performance to the villain in this film. He was regal, he was cruel, and he masterfully showed us the subtle weaknesses in the character.

Two moments stand out to me: The first being him berating a young Rocket for being smarter than him. This scene was powerful and paralleled an abusive father angry with insecurities. The second would be the final act when he loses self control and lashes out in anger at his subordinates in a last ditch effort to maintain power.

Next up is Will Poulter as Adam Warlock. This has been a hotly contested subject thus far, with most fans finding the character to far from his comic origins. Warlock is innocent and child-like, still learning who he is and what this world he lives in is all about. Many comic fans felt this nerfed the character, relegating him comedic relief. Whatever the case, Will did a great job. He was funny, charming, and primal. Warlock was new to the world and it was stated that he was prematurely birthed from his pod. He’s a character with much more room to grow.

I feel obligated to comment on the soundtrack, though we already know that any Guardians of the Galaxy Mixtape is going to be a instant hit. This one felt different though. These songs held a lot more meaning and raised the bar in several scenes. Radiohead’s “Creep” in the opening sequence. “Spacehog’s “In The Meantime” with the colorful spacesuits heist scene. I don’t think we’ll ever hear Florence and The Machine’s “The Dog Days Are Over” in the same way again. It belongs to The Guardians now. I dare you NOT to dance when you hear it from now on.

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol.3 does what all of the best movies do, it makes you look inward. It makes you think about where you are, right now, and all of the things you’ve done and been through to become that person. It makes you appreciate those people closest to you, whether that be your family or friends, or maybe those friends that are family now. I hope it validates your perseverance through hardships and trauma. I hope that it makes you face your demons and work to be a better person in spite of it all.

Life can be hard and the world can be cruel, but if we look out for each other, and sometimes just dance to a good tune, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish together.

How We Celebrated Free Comic Book Day 2023

Sean Winningham
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How We Celebrated Free Comic Book Day 2023

This year, The Captioned Life Show spent our Free Comic Book Day at Comic Book University, a comic shop on the south side of Indianapolis. They also had special guest artists present at their shop for the day:

  • Mark Brayer, Illustrator of many children’s books, comics, posters, and more
  • Jackie Crofts who is the creator of “Nutmeg”
  • Dan Schkade, the artist of “The Spirit Returns” and “Lavender Jack”
  • Gavin Smith, who is the current artist on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series from IDW Publishing

I also spoke to the store owner, Rob Skorjanc, about the shop, Free Comic Book Day, how long they’ve been participating in this nationwide event, and what people may not realize about the day.

Apple TV+’s ‘Ghosted’ is Probably Better Left On Unwatched

Pooja Chand
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Apple TV+’s ‘Ghosted’ is Probably Better Left On Unwatched

Spy action combined with romantic comedy is an odd duo but it’s not anything new in the world of movies. Thanks to Apple TV+, we have a new entry into the genre, Ghosted, which stars Ana de Armas and Chris Evans as the main leads. The film follows Cole Turner, a farm boy selling plants at a farmers market where he coincidentally meets the mysterious Sadie. After an all-night date, Cole realizes he’s being ghosted by her but decides to take a trip to London which only leads him to be caught up in an international CIA mission. 

Read Also: ‘Rye Lane’: Speaking Truth About Love and Life

As far as spy actions and romantic comedies go, Ghosted manages to maintain a decent amount of entertaining moments throughout the first half as it introduces its main characters, antagonists, and the general premise of the film. It’s very clear from the get-go that this is attempting to switch roles around, pitting Chris Evans as the one needing saving while Ana de Armas takes action to complete her mission. While it’s not an original concept, it’s mildly refreshing while providing some humor to the plot overall as antics run wild. 

There is some potential in what is intended to be a fun, laid back movie but that quickly disappears in the second hour of the fun. Instead, Ghosted feels as if it wants to switch genres midway, as it takes on a much more serious tone. Previously explained backstories are used to generate drama which, frankly, feels so dull and out of place. The shift in the direction becomes confusing and lacks focus as we see our main characters behave in a way that is uncomfortably toxic, and had me questioning why either continued to pursue one another.

Chris Evans is perhaps one of only two highlights of the film, particularly as someone who is no stranger to romantic comedies which allows his performance to be worthwhile and believable. If another reason needed to watch this film, it might be the cameos that last no more than 10 minutes in total. But outside of that, there is nothing interesting coming from Ana de Armas, and certainly none of the on-screen chemistry that we witnessed between the two back in Rian Johnson’s Knives Out. Rather, whatever “tension” that is consistently mentioned throughout the film feels forced and uncomfortable. Adrian Brody aims to be a menacing antagonist but fails with a distracting accent and boring presence. 

Ghosted barely makes itself a worthwhile film to watch with most of it feeling unnatural as it plummets in fun by the second half. Chris Evans attempts to be the saving grace of the film but there was never any saving this film. It feels as if it is ultimately a lackluster attempt at reviving a genre that perhaps was meant to stay in the past. If you’re someone who has put this movie off, regardless of reason, this might be your sign to keep putting it off. Instead, you might be better off ghosting it until a sick day comes around where you can put on this one-time watch.

Samosa Rating:  

Ghosted receives 1.5 out of 5 Samosas. 

Ghosted is streaming on Apple TV+.  
Runtime: 1h 56m

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