Spider-Man

Loved it. Tobey Maguire was great. Dafoe and Franco excellent. JK Simmons (yeah Simmons) nailed J Jonah Jameson. Etc, etc. Ariel called it the most 'realistic' of these movies. I think that that's not the right term to use, but I know what he's getting at, I think he's talking about it's relatability; Peter's an orphan who can't quite get things to go his way. Oh and the opening lines, great (like all great stories...).

So, what's wrong with it? Well, as I've mentioned before, Dunst sucks. I can't stand her. I acknowledge that she's a good actress, but way too annoying. The Green Goblin. Good choice of villain, except that he looks ridiculous talking in the mask. They needed to find a way to show more of his face. Finally, I know that Spider-Man is supposed to be a bit cheesy/sappy, but they overdid it.

Despite it's problems, I enjoyed it a lot. 3.5 out of 5.

Trivia: Is Peter Parker related to Ben, or May? I don't know, I'm hoping you can tell me.

FYI

Do you want to know if he's a muslim (secret or otherwise)? Consult this site for up to date information (via MY).

Best Ron Paul Reference Ever

We interrupt your irregularly scheduled reviews of movies made from Marvel comics to bring you this very important memo that will help you determine a woman's intent towards you. Is nice. A taste:

"She asks who you are voting for....You should say, Ron Paul, because chicks dig guys who live dangerously or that are crazy and voting for Paul puts you in both categories."

X-Men

Where to start? First off, great casting. Has an actor ever been a better fit for a character than Patrick Stewart as Professor X? I wouldn’t quite say the same of Ian McKellen as Magneto, but I think he’s an even better actor than Stewart. Then there’s Jackman playing Wolverine to perfection. We won’t linger on Halle Berry’s suckfest performance, other than to note that at least her role wasn’t big in the movie. Other performances range from ok to good.

Great opening scene, with Magneto’s childhood experiences forming his worldview. Fight scenes were all good as I recall. Movie spent too much time introducing everyone and explaining everything; I understand why they did it, and it was generally well done, but it did detract from the overall experience.

I’ve heard some complaints that Magneto’s plan either didn’t make sense, and that it was a great plan that the X-Men should have been on board with. Not sure how to reconcile these different takes. Other than to say I think the plan made sense, and was rightly opposed.

Overall, I give it a 4 out of 5.

Best Movies Based on Marvel Comics

Ok, as promised, here's my list of the best movies based on a Marvel comic. Starting in what I consider the modern era of comic book movies. Excluding The Punisher, Elektra, and Ghost Rider, as I haven't seen them. And The Incredible Hulk, obviously.
From worst to first:
14 Daredevil
13 Blade II
12 Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer
11 Hulk
10 Fantastic Four
9 Blade
8 Blade: Trinity
7 Spider-Man 3
6 X-Men: The Last Stand
5 Iron Man
4 Spider-Man
3 Spider-Man 2
2 X-Men
1 X2

So, there it is. I guessing someone will ask why no Batman or Superman; they aren't Marvel, that's why.

Also, I know a lot of people will disagree with the top of the list, arguing for Spider-Man 2 as the best. It is a quality flick, with a lot of excellent performances. However, like the first Spider-Man it's bit too sappy, and Kirsten Dunst sucks. But I'm getting ahead of myself, reviews to come. Submitted reviews are encouraged, particularly for 8-14.

Marvellous

After seeing Iron Man last night, a brief discussion ensued as to where it ranks among movies made from Marvel comics, and what was the best one of these. Inspired by this, I will post my opinions on this topic here. I'm limiting myself to the modern era of comic book movies, and to the ones I've seen. Still thinking a little bit about the order, will probably post my list tomorrow. I'm thinking that I will also write a mini-review of each movie over the next couple of weeks. Anyway, today, just the list of movies under consideration, including the ones I haven't seen. If you notice that I've missed any, please let me know.
Blade (1998)
X-Men (2000)
Blade II (2002)
Spider-Man (2002)
Daredevil (2003)
X2 (2003)
Hulk (2003)
The Punisher (2004)
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Blade: Trinity (2005)
Elektra (2005)
Fantastic Four (2005)
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Ghost Rider (2007)
Spider-Man 3 (2007)
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)
Iron Man (2008)

May the Fourth be With You

Hat tip to Haskell the Rascal and Count Duckula (6:55 mark).