Showing posts with label RETURN. Show all posts
Showing posts with label RETURN. Show all posts

Friday, 11 March 2016

Bleach Review: The Princess Dissection

"Need to stitch my face back together for all the fan girls" 
Urahara shows off the power of his Bankai to a surprised Askin and gets help from an unlikely ally.

Sorry that I wasn't able to review last weeks but besides from being busy I haven't been feeling 100% lately (might be coming down with something) but I am here for this epic chapter! Finally we Bleach fans get to see one of the most anticipated Bankai and so far it hasn't disappointed. First off I really like the design of Kannon Biraki Benihime Aratame because I much prefer it when Kubo creates giant Bankai like Mayuri's and Komamura's because there is just so much more detail in them. I guessed ages ago his Bankai might be female looking because his Zanpakuto is one of the only few confirmed with a female spirit and it does look rather creepy looking with it's doll - like appearance. Secondly it also has a rather useful ability that can spilt open and stich back together anything Urahara wishes such has his damaged eye and his arm so he can deliver and powerful blow against Askin. Now I really don't think that this is it for his Bankai's abilities because since Zanpakuto are supposed to mirror the personalites of their owners I'm guessing Benihime also has a darker side like Urahara.

Bet your surprised Askin
As for the fight it got really good with Urahara coming back strong thanks to his Banaki ability and actually has Askin on the ropes. I do like Askin saying that he doesn't really like close combat but he did carry a really interesting looking spear or trident in one of the panels. However the fight suddenly ends with the arrival of Grimmjow who mercilessly rips out Askin's heart and crushes it. I read that a lot of fans where disappointed that Grimmjoe hasn't done much since his return but I think this brutal move really makes up for it. Now I seriously doubt that Askin is dead because Kubo seems to really like him based on how much development he hasn't given the character so I'm 95% sure Askin will transform into something else. I also am saying this because the next chapter is 666 and there are a lot of fan speculation that Kubo is saving something really big or shocking for this.

DAMN! Now that's pretty brutal!
Overall a really entertaining chapter for a Bankai that did not disappoint.

SCORE: 10/10       

Friday, 4 March 2016

TV Show Reviews 01/03/2016 - 03/03/2016

Because of work I have decided to review TV shows all together in these one uploads a week. They will be similar to my quick reviews in that I will list what I liked and disliked in bullet points and you can find out what shows I review by looking at the labels attached to this upload.

The Flash Season Two: Potential Energy
 
Run Flash Run!!
While Joe and Iris try to get closer to the newly arrived Wally West (Keiynan Lonsdale) Barry has to deal with a Meta Human who is his worst kind of opponent; Russell Glosson AKA The Turtle (Aaron Douglas) who has the power to slow down time.
 
Highlights
  • The Turtle was such an awesome villain in this episode because not only was he a really threat to the Flash he was really cam sold me on being this psychopathic killer. The effects of him slowing down everything was great and I loved the reveal that Cisco has been tracking down Meta Humans where not even aware of yet.
  • The interactions between Joe and Wally where a really highpoint and created some really tense drama moments between the two. I liked that that there is a rocky road ahead of them; we get to see them build their relationship rather than be instant father and son. Plus they did address Joe's faults in not being there for his son because he did throw sick wife out and faked her death; the things Wally said where harsh but overall there where not untrue and I am glad he brought them up.
  • The backstory on Zoom was so needed because Zoom has been lacking in development lately because he just hasn't been the focus that much but we finally learned more about him. Liked that Tom Cavanagh was the one to say the story because being such a great actor he made it so horrifying to hear, really enforcing Zoom as this unstoppable nightmare.
  • Finally the Reverse Flash is back baby!!! As a massive fan of comics I just knew he couldn't be gone for two long and I can't wait until next episode which will be all about me fav DC villain. Also while Tom Cavanagh was perfect as Eobard Thawne I can't wait to see Matt Letscher shine as him because he was also good in the short time we saw him in Season One.
Let Downs
  • Wells killing the Turtle because while there was this really cool and dark speech explaining his motivations why did they have to kill off such a great villain?
 Other
  • This is stuff from the episode that isn't a big highlight or let down but I want to point them out anyway and first is the reveal the Jay is suffering from a fatal illness. I wish they explained a little bit more about this but they are probably saving it for future episodes to give him more to do; I really like Jay in this but the writers have bee ignoring him quite a bit. Also while I was unsure about him and Caitlin I guess its been handled really well so far.
  • I'm not really sure what to make of Patty leaving Central City, I doubt she's gone for good but this means we won't see her that much anymore. I did like there screen time in this like Barry struggling to reveal his secret while also terrified of what Zoom will do but I just hope Barry does just tell her and make her stay rather than just wasting off this relationship.   
Overall a great midseason return with a great villain for the Flash but also some great character moments for the West family.
 
SCORE: 9/10
 
Arrow Season Four: Blood Debts
 
"Party time"
Oliver goes on a rampage when Damien's last attack leaves Felicity paralyzed in the hospital while also having to have to deal with the return of Anarky.
 
Highlights
  • The return of Anarky because so far I think he has been an awesome villain in Season Four! I really like is insane and sadistic personality (helped by that creepy clear mask), it was cool how we saw his symbol drawn in blood and just like last time we got some awesome fight scenes from him. Seriously his fight with Oliver and Thea with his staff weapon was so great to see and a fine example of how good the fight scenes are I Arrow.
  • This part is actually a continuation of the first one but I also really liked the connection Thea and Anarky seem to have. I know I have bashed Thea a bit this season but during the break I re watched the first half of Season Four and she is better than I initially thought. She has been doing way better than Laurel (will get to her in the let downs) because at least the writers are making more of an effort with her e.g. relationship with Malcolm, bloodlust and its effect on Damien and now her connection with Anarky. I hope Anarky continues his obsession with Thea and becomes like her nemesis.
  • Oliver was really great in this episode because it is almost like his return to his more darker ways in Season One such as killing the Ghosts and freeing Anarky. Good job from Stephen Amell for going back to this darker side and struggling with Felicity's condition.

Let Downs
  • Laurel was a real drag in this episode because from the beginning of the Season until now (with the exception of her small team up with Malcolm) all she seems to do is get in the way and make all the wrong decisions. I really liked her in Season Three because I enjoyed seeing her transition into becoming a vigilante but it seems there is nothing relevant for her to do now. I would like it if the writers gave her a recurring nemesis to concentrate on like Thea has Anarchy; Count Vertigo could have been hers but they have yet to bring him back.
  • I also didn't care much for Diggle's moments with his brother because I don't know just have one beating Andy decides to give up some info. I mean what is the deal with Andy? Is he under Damien's control or did he join of his own free will?
  • Finally after Damien's brutal attack on Oliver last episode he was barely featured in this episode. Sure they needed room for the return of Anarky which I really enjoyed but I just think he could have done more. Plus his fight scene with Oliver could have been better, there was an obvious blur for his stunt double and his excuse to let Oliver go was kind of weak to me.
Other
  • The Flashbacks did get interesting with the reveal that Oliver's tattoo has interested the Baron and we also got to see what the prison looked like before. However once again these Flashbacks could be way better because they need to pick up the plot a bit; the best Flashback this season was the one with Constantine because there was just so much going on.
  • As for the funeral scene it was obvious it was never going to be Felicity and it is now confirmed however I really hope it doesn't turn out to be Quentin or Diggle because I think the show would really suffer for that. Who I hope it is, is either Roy because his actor wants to focus more on film or Donna because those two I think are two characters would cry and be that angry for.
Overall not as strong as the Flash return but Anarky really stole the show for me.

SCORE: 7/10          
 
 
Legends Of Tomorrow: Pilot Part 1
 
In the year 2166 Vandal Savage has conquered the world so time traveller Rip Hunter returns to 2016 to form a team that can combat Savage across multiple time periods. This team includes the Atom, White Canary, Firestorm, Captain Cold, Heat Wave, Hawkman and Hawkgirl.
 
Highlights
  • The whole dystopian future, the Time Masters and time traveling was handled really well and fits in the overall DC TV universe. Praise especially goes to Arthur Darvill as Rip Hunter because he worked alongside the cast perfectly and has the real charisma for the leader.
  • It was great seeing characters from Arrow and the Flash again and seeing them work and interact together such as Ray and Stein geek out over time travel. As I have said before Ray is one of my favourite characters and I liked his conversation with Oliver about how he believed he never made a difference before he "died", a nice sympathetic moment for The Atom. The fun surprise came with Sara forming a friendship with Leonard and Mick which gave us some really funny scenes and I hope these three stick together a lot now.
  • Loved the moments with Kendra and Carter because like I said on their appearance in Arrow and Flash, besides a few differences from the comics, their story arc with Savage has been perfect. I really love watching their story arc and some of the strongest scenes came from them such as them fighting to decide to go or not or meeting their son and watching him die.
  • Finally glad to see Cronus who is a Atom villain in the comics; he looks so badass and I look forward to seeing more of him. Plus quite the twist he works for the Time Masters, I thought he worked for Savage when watching the trailers.

Let Downs        
  •  Waaaaaaaay too much exposition from Rip Hunter and other characters and I wished they spent less time on it or better yet tell it through some Flashbacks like on Arrow.
  • Jackson was a weak link in this because I really don't get where all this doubt and reluctance to fight came from?
 
Other
  • Reverse Flash says he is from a 150 years in the future so why did he never mentioned that Savage has taken it over? Could it be possible that Malcolm changed the timeline somehow when he took Savage's ashes?
  • Wish there was more of Savage because he was a great villain but since this is part 1 I hope he is in part 2 more.
Overall an awesome start to the series and I can see this going for ages and being an epic TV show!
 
SCORE: 8/10
 
The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





Thursday, 19 November 2015

Arrow Season Four: Lost Souls

"I wish I was big"
Team Arrow work to try and free the trapped Ray from Damien meanwhile Felicity's mom visits again and Sara goes back out into the field.
 
You know I was really looking forward to the return of Ray AKA The Atom because he was my favourite character in Season Three but this episode was kind of a disappointment overall. To start off with what I did like I loved seeing Donna back because it is so fun to see how awkward she makes Felicity. I did like the heart to heart they shared because we got to learn a bit more about their past, I liked how much contact Oliver with her and how that surprised Felicity but the biggest surprise was the moment Donna had with Quentin at the end! If a romantic subplot does develop between these two characters then I say go ahead because it will be something completely new for Quentin and we might get some nice funny moments if the other characters find out lol. I also really enjoyed the two break - ins Team Arrow did because I liked how they where both heist style raids and it was cool that they brought Curtis to the last one. They fight scene between Team Arrow and HIVE was really awesome to watch and of course its also great to see more of Damien's powers; the way he quickly overpowered Green Arrow makes me wonder how they are going to beat him? We also got a look at some weird table thing that Damien wants to power up using the data they got from the ATOM suit but I still have no idea what his plan is yet so this really just fuels my curiosity.
 
Get in there Quentin!
Now on to what I didn't like and the first one being that Ray and Sara where completely underused in this episode. I wanted there to be more scenes with Ray and maybe the Flashbacks this episode could have been used to show what he has been up to the past six months because they weren't that interesting this episode. Plus he didn't even get to have one little fight after they rescued him; they might be saving some action with him for next episode but I wanted a little teaser now! As for Sara I feel like the writers have no idea what to do with her until Legends of Tomorrow because they again just skimmed over her return from the dead. I mean she let her mother know she was alive over the freaking phone, I really would have preferred if she came back and then Sara just left at the end; just like with Henry Allen in The Flash I think this was poorly handled and their excuses just not good enough. Another reason she didn't do that good is because of the stupid bloodlust subplot that she shares with Thea and I just really, really have lost all interest in it at this point; they haven't done enough to make me really care anymore and it just feels shoved in every episode as a reminder. Finally while the conflict between Oliver and Felicity was understandable, made some good points and the dialogue was alright I just felt like it dragged on and on until it dominated most of the episode.  
"Hey how about we form our own group with just us three?"
Overall the weakest episode of Arrow so far in my opinion mainly because of how underused Ray and Sara where and I really only liked half of what was going on. 
 
SCORE: 5/10
 
Highlights: Return on Donna/Possible her and Quentin romance?
                   The two heist style raids
                   Badass Damien
 
Let - Downs: Ray and Sara where underused
                      Don't care about the Sara/Thea bloodlust issue anymore
                      Flashbacks
                      The Oliver and Felicity conflict just took over the whole episode
 
The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





Saturday, 14 November 2015

Arrow Season Four: Haunted

"I'm back!"
Laurel comes clean with the rest of Team Arrow after Sara goes on a rampage so Oliver contacts an old friend, John Constantine (Matt Ryan), for help in saving Sara's soul.

Arrow sure stepped into the realm of magic in a big way with the guest appearance of Constantine and he did not disappoint. I didn't see the short lived Constantine series but everyone praised Ryan's performance and I can see why because he is faithful to his comic counterpart in personality, humour, the way he acts around the rest of the characters and how he comes across as a selfless guy with the way he helped Team Arrow but you can just tell he has a murky past. I'm glad however that they didn't waste too much time on Constantine's backstory they just tied him in nicely to the present and flashback storylines. The Flashbacks really improved this episode because thanks to Constantine we have a better understanding of what the bad guys are up to and we had a nice treasure hunt with him and Oliver. Then there was the present story line and that trip to the "other side" Constantine, Oliver and Laurel took was really cool (and again increases the supernatural element of the show) with them fighting the souls of the deceased League members and those gory, zombie - looking hands that where holding Sara. The let downs for this story line however was that overall Constantine really wasn't in it that much and I think that could have been improved by trimming down some of the scenes with Sara hunting Thea and capturing her; I mean honestly that went on for way too long! Then there was the fact that Sara's reunion with her family could have been a lot more better and had more emotional impact; she didn't even say anything to anybody and it was only mentioned by Quentin and Laurel how she was coping with just coming back. Laurel however was a bit better this episode (even though she doesn't seem to care people are dead because she brought Sara back) with the way she stood up to Oliver for when he used the Pit on Thea.

Don't let go Laurel!
As for everything else I really enjoyed the team up with Quentin and Diggle because they where two characters that haven't had much interaction with each other. I liked that Diggle didn't trust Quentin at first because of his ties to HIVE but was willing to let that slide for the greater good and I liked how Quentin saved Diggle from the guards by pretending to arrest him. Quentin also got some info out of Darhk which revealed the truth about Diggle's brother and I wonder how this will affect him in future episodes. Two subplots that felt out of place was firstly the ones with Oliver's mayor campaign because that really was there just to introduce a new character and Felicity and Curtis scenes trying to solve Ray's message. They where alright but in the light of having a major guest star like Constantine every other subplot should have been on hold or really trimmed down like the Sara hunting for Thea so that he could have had way more screen time. However at least Felicity now knows that Ray is alive and I hope that becomes the big focus for next episode or the one after because I am tried it just being these small subplots.

"If only my last tattoo was this painless"
Overall a great introduction to Constantine in the Arrow/Flash universe and I really hope that the character appears more on both shows or even Legends of Tomorrow.

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Constantine guest appearance/improved island Flashbacks
                   Magic has now been more heavily introduced/rescuing Sara's soul scenes
                   Quentin and Diggle team up

Let - Downs: Sara's reunion with her family wasn't as impactful as it should have been
                      Some subplot and scenes took too much screen time away from Constatine

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





Thursday, 12 November 2015

Supergirl Season One: Fight or Flight

"I've already fought Superman so let's try Supergirl"
Cat runs an expose on Supergirl meanwhile Kara must deal with one of Superman's oldest and must formidable enemies; Ben Krull AKA Reactron (Chris Browning).

Wow we get Superman more involved in this episode than I thought so maybe that might mean one day he will get a proper appearance than a cameo? This episode once again deals with Kara's inexperience at being a hero and addresses the issue as to why she doesn't just call Superman for help all the time. The answer is simple in the fact that Kara wants to be her own hero, one that the people can look up to first in National City rather than just a plan B if Superman isn't around. I liked how Kara dealt with it; fighting Reactron in her own ways such as first trying to reason with him (I liked that this showed her compassionate side to the villain) then using force as a must. In the end I feel that she did prove herself to her friends, Superman and Cat who was writing a bad article on her. I also really liked the end of the episode when she had that message chat with Clark because while I know the series is limited to how much they can use Superman it is could to see some communication between them. Now as for the villain he was the best one by far! Reactron was so freaking cool, from the look of his armour to his awesome energy based attacks and fight scenes but it was his backstory that was a highlight. It was just really cool and such a good move to have an enemy of Superman make an appearance because it does expand the TV universe in showing that major events have happened before the start. He may have just been in one episode so far (hope he comes back!) but I feel he has been the best developed villain because of his tragic backstory and history with Superman, plus he isn't just going after Supergirl because he was ordered to he has his own proper reasons to.

"Talk to the hand!"
As for everything else I was glad to see more of Maxwell Lord because he is a great DC villain and while I do like the actor portraying him I don't think this debut did the character justice. He was only really in this to fix Reactron's armour something a generic scientist could have done and he just comes across as an annoying rich playboy. However I will give the show the benefit of the doubt in that they are going to develop him from a good guy to a villain plus I did like this hinted relationship between him and Cat so we'll see where that goes. I also think James was a tad disappointing because after everything he said last episode of getting out of Superman's shadow he goes ahead a calls him without hesitation. Sure he apologized, sure he put his life on the line to stop Reactron but I just thought he had more faith in Supergirl after all the encouragement he has been giving her and them sharing the same desires of being their own person. Winn I admit is growing on me; he is a fun character to watch whether with his enthusiasm to help Suergirl or trying to win her affection lol. Finally I didn't like that Alex and the DEO managed to find the way to stop Reactron conveniently at the end because I would rather Kara, James and Winn found out themselves when the DEO where barely involved this episode. I know I have already said I didn't like them much but I think I would more if they weren't just squeezed in just for a little screen time. However Henshaw still peaks my curiosity by displaying his red eyes and again I really, really hope he turns out to be Cyborg Superman!!

So what past do these two have?
Overall this episode had the best villain by far, had some great development for Kara and managed to include Superman in really well without taking too much from Sueprgirl. Thought I'd take the time to say that I haven't forgotten the new Arrow episode I was just too busy in Wednesday to review it so I will get round to it and I will no longer be reviewing Bleach because I will be more busy again soon because of work and I'd rather find time for these shows than Bleach.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: Reactron was a kickass villain!
                   Kara becoming more and more her own hero
                   Cat still great and Winn is improving

Let - Downs: Maxwell Lord's debut could have been better
                      James wasn't too good this episode
                      The DEO just squeezed in at the end to help with the villain

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





Thursday, 29 October 2015

Arrow Season Four: Restoration

"I always knew gambling could be dangerous but damn!"
Laurel and Thea visit Malcolm at Nanda Parbat to try and convince him to bring back Sara with the Lazarus Pit meanwhile in Star City Oliver and Diggle team up to take on Meta - Human Jeremy Tell AKA Double Down (JR Bourne) who is working for HIVE.

I love it when they bring Meta Humans on Arrow and this time Oliver actually got to fight one because it was Ray who fought Deathbolt. This episode was a really strong OTA (Original Team Arrow) episode which is good because I do miss when it was just the first three and it was thanks to Double Down who while being a straightforward villain was an awesome one. Double Down had such an cool power and his fight scenes showcasing it where so great like his first one with Oliver to a tie, his raid on Palmer Technologies and his final one with Oliver and Diggle; I really hope he appears in future episodes of Arrow or the Flash. It was also thanks to Double Down that Oliver and Diggle where finally able to mend their relationship which I am glad for because I want them to be civil with each other again like Diggle trusting Oliver with his two year mission or Oliver taking a playing card for Diggle. Plus I am glad we got to touch on Diggle's mission for vengeance against HIVE again since I expect to see quite a lot of it because to me this is supposed to be Diggle's season to really stand out and let the main storyline be about him. Felicity also had a strong subplot this episode, holding her own against Double Down though I admit a lot less gracefully lol. I like the team work between her and Curtis and I love we got to see the T - Spheres which makes me hopefully we will see Mr Terrific soon. Finally Damien really, and I mean really, stood out in this subplot and continues to impress me everything has the main villain. The way he used Double Down's own playing card to kill Fayad was so damn brutal and I agree with Double Down that Damien is terrifying and I do not want to get on the wrong side of him!

Really great line but Curtis here lol
As for everything else it is always good to see Malcolm again because he is just my favourite Arrow character and while I like Sara being back I didn't like the subplot overall. For starters I didn't like Laurel's attitude in this whole episode; when the Malcolm and Nyssa both agree not to bring Sara back then you should take that to heart! I also agree with Nyssa in that Laurel is doing this for the wrong reasons, it feels more selfish than anything else and I think it would have been better if Sara was brought back for better reasons than just Laurel wanting to. Thea also didn't fare too well because I have so far had mixed reactions about her condition and this episode didn't do a better job of making it better, she is kind of like a vampire now lol. As for Nyssa she just continues to annoy me in everything she does like destroying the Lazarus Pit, going on a rant about Sara, threatening to kill Malcolm; I just feel like she spoils everything in the end. I hope in the future Laurel or Malcolm kills her because I am just hating her now and I tell you this if Nyssa does kill Malcolm (like she threatens to) I will never forgive the show for that. Since Malcolm is a villain I know he could end up dead in a future season and I just think he defiantly deserves a better death than by Nyssa who has never had a good storyline and constantly whines all of the time. Finally the Flashbacks are decent and I want to know more of the Baron's plans but they are nothing to exciting so far, just have to give it more time.

You know in the LOT trailer Sara was naked coming out of the Pit, I feel cheated now
Overall the plot with Double Down was way better than the one in Nanda Parbat though I am glad Sara is back now.

SCORE 7/10

Highlights: Double Down
                   Strong Oliver, Diggle and Felicity storylines
                   Damien continues to be awesome
                   Return of Malcolm

Let - Downs: Laurel and Thea continue to be the weak links this season
                      Nyssa just spoils everything in the end   

The great screenshots of these episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;





Friday, 25 September 2015

Bleach Review: BABY, HOLD YOUR HAND 7 (Never Ending My Dream)

"SURPRISE!"
With Pernida defeating Mayuri enters a pod to recover meanwhile Shunsui and his group deal with the Sternritter sniper Lille Barro.

It looks like the Pernida fight is truly over now and I got to say this has been one of the best fights of the arc; it was one of the longest, very entertaining and my favourite captain was fighting it. After they fight he retreats to a pod to heal and I'm guessing this is an excuse for Mayuri to have a break now from this arc and let it focus on other character. Kenpachi is also healed and since he got taken out pretty quickly by Pernida I think he will recover faster so he can have a proper fight later on. I did really like how Mayuri states that he has surpassed Urahara because of Nemu which is something he wanted to do for ages and we also get an image of Mayuri and Nemu floating together in water (with Nemu being naked for fan service). It was cool because it rounded up the father/daughter relationship these two have, with Mayuri finally appreciating Nemu and most likely going to bring her back with the brain he has. However what I really, really didn't like about this chapter was the reveal of Toshiro and Rangiku now alive and well because I just do not like those two characters and would have preferred them to stay dead. The reason for this is because Toshiro loses all of his fights, makes himself out to be really strong thought I think he is the weakest captain and I bet he was only brought back based on his popularity. It was a big WTF moment when I thought Kubo killed him off (I gave him praise back then for having the guts to do it) but no he has now ruined it but what really annoys me is that I bet great captains like Rose and Kensei are still dead because they just wasn't as popular but that is Kubo's fault for mostly ignoring them in favour of Toshiro. Moving on from this it looks like the new fight will be with Lille Barro which I have been looking forward to and I hope he kicks some ass! I liked how Shunsui managed to trick him but I am interesting in seeing is how Lille Barro is going to fight such a large group? Because Shunsui was travelling with quite a few people I would be annoyed if they all are just going to wait on the side-lines.

I wonder if these two will fight during the arc?
Overall I really good end to the Pernida fight and set up for the next big show down however I have got to dock this chapter quite a bit of score for bringing back to of the worst characters in Bleach and all in all it was a bit slow. However I got to say that I hope in the future we will get a Flashback showing how Perndia came into existence and that Yumichika and Ikkaku will get to have a fight and they finally use their Zanpakuto to the fullest instead of always holding back which got annoying years ago.   

SCORE: 6/10

Highlights: Mayuri's joy at beating Urahara
                   Shunsui vs. Lille Barro

Let Downs: Toshiro and Rangiku now alive and well

Thursday, 17 September 2015

Bleach Review: BABY, HOLD YOUR HAND 6 (Waiting For Love)

"I'm back!"
Nemu's succeeds in severely damaging Pernida however the Left Arm is not ready to go down just yet meanwhile someone from the past haunts Mayuri.

I think I'll will first talk about the biggest WTF moment in this chapter and that was the return of my favourite Espada, Szayelaporro Granz! Now I am getting a bit carried away because Szayelaporro is dead but it is such a genius was for Kubo to have him return as a vision to taunt Mayuri. I loved this moment because it made sense since it goes back to Szayelaporro and Mayuri's opposing views on perfection because Mayrui thought that Nemu was perfect something he said he hated while fighting Szayelaporro. Plus I like this throwback to a old fight because it shows that it actually meant something and that Szayelaporro left a lasting impression on Mayuri, unlike characters like Byakuya who doesn't seem to care about his old fights again after his has won them. A shocker is that it seems Nemu is defiantly dead now which some of us saw coming with her recent flashbacks and development = but I didn't expect it to be really gruesome! This is thanks to Pernida who is one of the most gruesome, creepy and disgusting villains in Bleach with the way it killed Nemu, tired to eat her remains and grew eyes all over it's severed parts. However I am not liking the end of this chapter because Nemu's regenerative powers which is causing Pernida to explode was just too convenient of a way for it to be defeated. Now I do see this fight being over now because I don't see how much longer it can go on after this but it was just as cheap way to end it.

So Pernida has a tongue now?  
Overall this chapter gets high praise for bringing back Szayelaporro the way it did and if this is the end of Pernida we defiantly need a Flashback or two showing how the Left Arm became like this.

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: The return of Szayelaporro
                   The gruesome scenes with Pernida

Let - Downs: Pernida's defeat is just too convenient

Tuesday, 8 September 2015

Arrow Season Four Trailer Breakdown


I know I am late with this but better late than never lol. Here are just a few things in the trailer that really stood out for me.

Oliver and Felicity living happily ever after: You know I didn't actually expect them to be so "settled down" I guess is the phrase; having a proper home in a nice neighbourhood. It also showed them as really happy so something really BIG must convince Oliver to fight crime again.

Star City: We see a billboard welcoming people to Star City so we now get the proper name for the place out of the comics however it says it was for the memory of Ray Palmer. Everyone knows he is in Legends of Tomorrow so I am guessing he either faked his death so he can focus on being a vigilante or he is stuck as really small and it's up to Felicity to help him.

Diggle's new costume: I have heard a lot of bad comments about Diggle's new look (like how he is a Black Magneto) and I a sick of it! I for one think it is a cool costume that really suits Diggle; something simple and practical that can be used to fight.

The invasion of HIVE: We see Team Arrow (Diggle, Laurel and Thea) seem to struggle against some heavily armed commando looking troops which I guess must be HIVE and the reason they decide to bring back Oliver. We also see a whole bunch of cool looking action scenes with Team Arrow fighting against the HIVE forces.

John Constantine: Ever since the announcement of Constantine being in Arrow I have been looking forward to Season Four so much more. I haven't watched the Constantine show but from what I heard from fans and from Stephen Amell, Matt Ryan was a really awesome Constantine. He is going to bring a new level of powers to the Arrow and Flash universe!

Quentin still being a jerk: I liked Quentin in Season Two and first half of Season Three but when he started to hate the Arrow again I just really started to hate him. Even when he is not a cop the way treats other characters you just want to punch him in the face and it seems I will feel that way again by the shots of him knocking out Diggle and talking to Oliver. He is going to have an anti - vigilante taskforce again from what I read and as long as he doesn't go overboard like in Season Three I can get behind it but if he is just angry all the time again then I hope he gets killed off.

Malcolm and Nyssa back again: We see them have a stare down and a few shots of some fighting which makes me think they still want to kill each other. Looking forward to seeing Malcolm again but I hope Nyssa doesn't hate on Malcolm all throughout another season; I like her but it is always Sara, Sara, Sara, hating Malcolm, Sara, Sara all the time with her. They need to give her a new storyline for once and I really hope they don't have her kill Malcolm and become to new Ra's because I'll just really hate that. Besides I always think of Malcolm as the best fighter and archer in the whole series so I don't want him to lose to Nyssa.

Curtis Holt/Mr Terrific: Another character who I am looking forward to because he is a tech based vigilante who uses devices called T spheres to help him and it looks like we'll see them. Looks like a good character from what I have seen in the trailer and has some awesome and funny scenes with Felicity but I hope they don't wait too long to turn him into Mr Terrific.

Damien Darhk: Really liked the casting for this character and from what I've seen he will be an awesome villain! Unlike Malcolm, Deathstroke and Ra's, Damien looks like he isn't going to just be hiding in the shadows. For example we see him straight up announce to the cops he is the bad guy and we also see his forces attack the police station with Quentin looking to be in trouble.

Lonnie Machin/Anarky: We see a few shots of Anarky who is going to be a major villain this season and while we don't see much we see Damien talking to him which makes me think Anarky will work for him or Damien inspired him to be a villain.

Oliver was a vigilante before present day: We see some Flashbacks of Oliver and it looks like he was The Hood in Coast City before he was in Starling. I like this because it means he practised before being The Hood for real however can't say I like Amanda Waller being there because I never liked her casting.

Thea going crazy: Never saw an bad side affects of the Lazarus Pit affect Thea last season but it seems it will now with Oliver shouting and hitting at her. I wonder how long these effects will last but I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

Sara Lance is back: Like with Ray it was obvious because we see her in the Legends of Tomorrow trailer and while I did say once her staying dead was important (so not all characters can just come back when they want) I admit I am looking forward to seeing her. This is how Constantine gets involved because the Lazarus Pit really isn't supposed to work on someone who has been dead as long as Sara. I just hope her coming back will change Quentin for the better (unless the they keep it a secret from him) and gives Nyssa something better to do.

Felicity and Curtis fighting Double Down: Besides from being a really funny scene in the trailer what I like most is that Double Down is confirmed to be a Meta Human! I know a bit about him from the comics but in Arrow I read he can use his playing card tattoos as deadly weapons. As I said before I want more Meta Humans in Arrow because I would really like to see Oliver going up against one.

There you have it, this trailer is really making me looks forward to Season Four and I don't think I missed anything in this breakdown. 

Wednesday, 1 July 2015

Falling Skies Season Five: Find Your Warrior

Tom returns to Earth after his brief encounter with a new race of aliens however he soOn starts to display more rage and aggressive tactics against the Espheni.

Falling Skies is back for it's final season, which is a shame because I think it could go longer even if they use a spin off, and this episode started strong. I picks up immediately after the finale of Season Four and even though the encounter with the new aliens was shorter than I thought it would be I liked the lasting effect it had on Tom. It was almost like they made him into a sleeper agent; the way he repeated certain phrases and how he knew he had to go to the highschool. It was also thanks to the new Warrior Tom (lol) that we got some really cool action scenes like when Tom's group was surrounded in the woods or the assault on the highschool. The highschool part in particular was awesome because I liked the dark atmosphere and the best moment of the episode came from when Tom shot the Overlord in the head. These actions make me think that the new aliens aren't friendly and they want Tom to do their dirty work for them so I hope the finale season has room to give us enough information about them. Now as for the other alien races it is always great to see the Volm and I liked how they helped a lot during the fights and their info about more Militia makes me hopeful we will get some massive battle near the end. As for the Espheni it is good that even in Season Five we still learn more abut them like the Feral Skitters.

Since the episode was mainly focused on Tom there isn't too much else to say; I always like seeing Pope however briefly since he is my favourite fictional character and I'm sure he will get more focus soon. Sara had her own moment with shooting the explosives and it looks like Anthony will tap into his inner rage more with the death of Denny. What I didn't like about this episode was the love triangle that still exists between Ben, Hal and Maggie because I just freaking hated it last season and thought it was a waste of time. Hal just acts like a damn brat and Maggie is not helping; sure she says she can't control her emotions but like she said to Hal she isn't doing anything against them. Also I am still not liking Anne, really wish she was still a doctor, I mean what was all that whispering nonsense when she was stabbing the Skitter? Finally I just want to point out that I am glad Lexi is not coming back because while she was alright I think they just messed up her story last season, I found it to be a boring arc and I never liked any of the stuff she did.     

Overall great start to the final season, not much really letting it down and it ended on a cliffhanger with that weird fly attacking Tom.

SCORE: 8/10

Highlights: Warrior Tom is a freshening change for the character
                   Great action sequences
                   Enjoyed all scenes with the Volm, Espheni and the new aliens

Let - Downs: The stupid love triangle returns
                       Anne still bothers me

Wednesday, 27 May 2015

Arrow Season Four: What I Want To See

As the title says this list of what I want to see for Season Four of the Arrow based on what loose ends there still is at the end of Season Three and my own opinion.

Arrow becomes Green Arrow: I think a lot of people finally want Oliver to take the full name of Green Arrow for the new season because he is obviously going to return to crime fighting. Plus you could say Arrow was technically killed off when Roy faked his death so they can't go back to that name.

New Arrowcave and gear: I don't want them to keep using Palmer Technologies as a lair, I want them back underground because its cooler that way. Also I want Oliver to have way more tech to work with just like Team Flash does.

More Meta Humans: Having Deathbolt in a episode of Arrow was so freaking cool and I want Oliver to be able to take on one this time. I also want this because Arrow has to realize that with the introduction of the Flash, Meta Humans and magical elements like the Lazarus Pit it can't keep remaining too grounded.

A better Thea: She did impress me in the finale of Season Three now let's see her keep it up and be the Speedy we deserve and have a more original costume.

Return of old villains:  I want Arrow to keep using it's villains because they have some great ones like Deathstroke, Captain Boomerang, Komodo, Clock King, Count Vertigo, Brick and Murmur. I know Deathstroke is going to return because it's Manu Bennett but I don't want the rest to be never seen from again now that Season Three is over like they did with Bronze Tiger. A great Season Two villain but is killed off in the comics and since he is absent this whole season I guess it is considered canon which is a damn shame (should have been China White killed off in the comics).

HIVE and Damien Darke: I know these have already been confirmed as the main villains but I want them to have a presence throughout Season Four just like Slade was in Season Two. The League waited until the latter half of Season Three to be the main threat which meant that half felt bogged down with them; they should have spread themselves out.

More Black Canary: Laurel has become such a great character now that I want to see her kick some more ass and have a nemesis she can fight over several episodes. Like with Thea if Oliver doesn't appear straight away in Season Four then that can be time to focus on her more; the three episode Brick arc in Season Three has already proved that if Oliver is absent for a while the secondary characters are still really entertaining.

More Diggle: I want Diggle to take more of a leadership role since Oliver might be away for a while and just give him a costume already!

No more interference from Quentin: I hope he actually sides with Team Arrow again so I can like his character again but if not I would prefer if he just backs off. Plus I just want the whole Lance family addiction habits to just be finally over because I am sick of it!

More heroes: With ATOM moving on to a new show they need to introduce some more heroes because it is always great to introduce one or two more each season. Some I would like to see and would fit in well in live action are; Doctor Mid - Nite, Lady Shiva, Onyx and Nightwing.

More villains: Like with above I want more comic villains to appear, here is a list of some I would like and would fit well in live action in my opinion; Anarky, Barricade, Blood Rose, Calendar Man, Cheshire, Constantine Drakon, Discord, Grifter, Jin Fang, Onomatopoeia and Savant.

These are just a few things I want to see, there are probably lots more I can think of but this is just a quick list.

Friday, 13 March 2015

Arrow Season Three: The Return

DEATHSTROKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oliver and Thea run in to Slade Wilson AKA Deathstroke while on the island and in Flashbacks Oliver is forced to return to Starling City with Maseo for a mission but is not allowed to contact his family.

I am really glad that we got the return of Deathstroke this season even if it is just for one episode but it is enough just to see him in action again! Plus I really liked that we got to go back to the island again after I have been complaining that the Flashbacks haven't been as good since they left it. Slade still has a lot of hatred to Oliver and proves just how much of a badass he is with some great fight scenes with Oliver and Thea. It wasn't much of a surprise that Malcolm was behind it all so they can get back their killer instinct (this is just the kind of thing he will do) but it was cool that Slade accepted it; they weren't it any scenes together but it was a nice villain team up. I was a bit disappointed however that Slade and the island didn't get as much screen time as I would have liked, for example Oliver and Thea could have dodged more traps. Also, I'm not going to mark the score down for this because the writers obviously wanted just Slade to be the opponent, but it is a shame we didn't see Captain Boomerang who is one of my favourite DC villains. Now as for Oliver and Thea we did get some great bonding moments between those two and I liked that Thea has grown more as a character in just this episode. Her reaction to her being Sara's killer was really well done and I liked her response to Malcolm this time because she now has more reason to hate him now then last episode when it came out of no where in my opinion. Now Slade says that Thea is in the darkness despite her sparing his life which makes me wonder if she is going to end up more like Malcolm than she wants?

Yay Tommy
The second half of this episode was all about the Flashbacks which is good because we need to have these more focused episodes every now and again. I really liked the Flashbacks this episode mainly because it wasn't in Hong Kong and we got to see the dilemma Oliver had a being so close to his friends and family. It was awesome that they finally got back to the message Oliver found from his father that was mentioned in season one and that we got to see him as a killer again like he was in the beginning. I enjoyed seeing Tommy again because he is always a scene stealer and we actually got to see Diggle's brother which is something I wasn't expecting. What I didn't like though was that Moira and Walter wasn't there (they could have easily been in it) and that while Thea's drug problem and  Quentin's drinking was expected I hated that we wasted time addressing them again because I how much I didn't like their addictions. Still Quentin did have any strong performance dealing with Sara's death and I am glad the show didn't put this off until next episode. Glad that Quentin is mad at Laurel because he has every right to be because Laurel mentioning how her mother already knew just reminded me how stupid her plan was. Finally we got the introduction of Matthew Shrieve (Marc Singer) which I am interested to see more of him because in the comics he is in charge of a group called the Create Commandos which is made up of Meta - Humans who are like fictional creates e.g. Frankenstein, Wolfman etc. So how is this going to work in Arrow which has always been more grounded than The Flash?

"Using a green hoodie to hide my identity is good, red wouldn't work"
Overall it was great seeing Deathstroke again (hope he returns soon) and it was refreshing having a more focused episode that was just about one storyline and the Flashbacks. Just now remembered to mention that the Flashbacks have finally dealt with China White and we can focus of maybe another villain.

SCORE: 7/10

Highlights: DEATHSTROKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
                   Thea had some great development in this
                   Flashbacks that showed Oliver's struggle and Tommy cameo

Let - Downs: Not enough Deathstroke or island
                      Moira and Walter should have been in the Flashbacks
                 Didn't like that we had to address Thea's and Quentin's addictions again even in Flashbacks


The great screenshots of the episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;
 
 


http://screencapped.net/        

Friday, 27 February 2015

Arrow Season Three: Uprising

It would have been interesting if Malcolm took over Team Arrow
With Brick becoming more powerful than ever Malcolm offers his services to Team Arrow and while Diggle, Arsenal and Black Canary consider the proposal Felicity is strongly against it. It is revealed Malcolm has more of a personal vendetta with Brick than anyone thought as Flashbacks reveal how he became the person he is today.

What an end to an awesome three part mini arc in the Arrow TV show; I have said it before and I will say it again I have immensely enjoyed these three episodes and if I did a top moments in Arrow this will be in it. This is probably my favourite of the three episodes because finally my favourite character in the show has the spotlight; Malcolm Merlyn who I have been complaining about lately is too much on the side lines. Finally he got an episode focused on him and I have to say that the writers seem to be trying to redeem his character a bit (such as sparing Brick), I don't think he will ever be a good guy but he is has never been entirely evil in my opinion. It is just as Roy and Thea said, in his own twisted way he protects people and just wants to save the city. Plus we got to see him again as the Dark Archer which is also awesome because his costume is the best and he is the best archer in the show in my opinion. What was also a nice addition was that the Flashbacks where about his past and we definitely needed this and it was good seeing his transformation from a good man to The Magician. I only wish there was more than what we got like him training more with the League because the scene with young Nyssa was just cool but I wanted to know more!

"I'm back!!!"
As for everything else it is good that Oliver is back now and though I think is entrance could have been more grand his speech to the citizens of the Glades was epic. Speaking of the Glades the showdown with Brick at the end was done really well and I enjoyed the massive brawl in the streets, also we got to see two characters again we haven't seen in a while; Sin and Ted Grant. Firstly I have always liked Sin's character and I'm glad to see her again I just wish that she didn't just pop up out of no where and they gave more explanation to where she has been. As for Ted I wanted him to be Wildcat again and he did not disappoint and it was awesome when he fought Brick; he really kicked his ass more than anyone else and I don't even mind he lost because I'm just going to chalk that up to the fact he has been retired for ages and Brick has almost superhuman strength anyway. Another character that was great this episode was Quentin, it was just so funny that he knew Roy straight away as Arsenal and how his joke about how Team Arrow choses names. Seems like he is going to realize Sara isn't the Black Canary soon because of Sin and since next episode is titled Canaries I'm guessing it's in that episode.

WILDCAT!!!!!!!!!!!!
As for Team Arrow they have been great during these three episodes; Roy has really matured in the absence of Oliver, I think Laurel becoming the Black Canary has been handled really well and Diggle is always just great. However the real let down has been Felicity because I think she just become a weak and whiny character lately. She completely ruined Oliver's homecoming and I don't get why, Oliver is basically using Malcolm to train him it is not like he is making him a member of the team. I just really miss the light hearted Felicity before who is super smart but can also cheer up the team and raise their confidence in any situation with her wit and one liners. I just hope they change her back to how she was before because right now I don't look forward to the scenes she is in since she is just a downer. Before I finish I know this episode was similar to the Dark Knight Rises but that doesn't bother me since the people behind the show have said before that Christopher Nolan's Batman has been inspiration for them and it isn't like their completely copying them.

Magic tricks work on everyone; kids or even assassins
Overall great finale to the three part episodes and I am glad that Brick is still alive to appear in future episodes. We got some great action and I actually liked the Flashbacks we got this time and I am looking forward to Oliver being in Star City once again.

SCORE: 9/10

Highlights: Epic three part arc
                   Wildcat and Sin
                   A Malcolm focused episode and Flashbacks
                   Great showdown with Brick at the end

Let - Downs: Felicity has been a constant negative in these last three episodes
                      Wanted to see Malcolm's training in the League

 
The great screenshots of the episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;
 
 


http://screencapped.net/          

Friday, 16 January 2015

Arrow Season Two: Birds of Prey

I hope this is the last time we ever see you
The episode begins with Arrow and Black Canary watching over Quentin busting a drug dealer; he is shot so Black Canary throws the dealer out of the window which Quentin reprimands her for. At the Arrowcave Felicity has been tracking Helena who has been killing numerous mobsters for her father's location, in a Flashback Slade is torturing Oliver but then finds out the boat's engines aren't working. Laurel then gets a call from her old boss because he wants her to prosecute Frank meanwhile Arrow, Diggle and Roy track Helena's car but it is a decoy and Roy almost kills the man who shot him in the hand. In a Flashback Slade contacts Sara over the radio and wants the mechanic who is with her for Oliver and in the present The Huntress takes over the court house and says she will execute hostages if her father isn't returned; Oliver having got him out earlier. Oliver is almost found out as Arrow when Quentin uses the phone but is able to come up with an excuse, Black Canary shows up and saves Laurel by defeating several of Huntress's men and they hold up in a room.

"Calm down Speedy.....or Red Arrow or Arsenal, whichever you prefer" 
Roy then breaks up with Thea because of his increased worry about Mirakuru, in a Flashback Slade threatens to kill Oliver but the mechanic refuses to go back. In the present Huntress and Black Canary fight however Huntress gets the upper hand but Arrow stops her from killing Black Canary but then Huntress takes Laurel hostage. Huntress then escapes with Laurel by dressing as a cop and then meets with Arrow and Black Canary to trade for her father; the police show up, Quentin saves Arrow from being shot, Laurel talks Black Canary out of killing Huntress and Frank is killed in the confusion much to Huntress's shock. Helena, in police custody and allowed to see Oliver, admits that he was right all along and that her father's death didn't change anything, in a Flashback Slade inks the same tattoo Shado had on Oliver's back and Sara says they will make the exchange. The episode ends with Laurel getting her job back by blackmailing the district attorney for her being used by them all along and Thea, still upset over Roy, is offered a lift by Slade.

Really wished she just killed her then there is no possibility she could come back
I really hoped never to see The Huntress ever again because as I have mentioned in my reviews in the episodes in season one she is in; they have completely ruined her character and she isn't any better now. She is just so much of a one - note character and when I first saw this episode I couldn't believe that she is still after her father, I mean can't they think of anything else for her to do!? As before Jessica De Gouw was a terrible choice for Huntress; she is not believable as her, she is really unlikable and her acting is just pathetic. I like the Huntress in the comics because she is similar to Arrow in how she works as a vigilante but I hate her in this. Taking hostages, going on a murder spree and just all the other stuff she has done has ruined her character and even after all that she admits she was wrong in the end. I hope this version of Huntress never appears again and that Arrow finds a new female protégé and gives her The Huntress costume and says something like "Maybe you can redeem this name and do good by it" now that would be awesome!

Oliver sure managed to talk his way out of this one
Laurel was really good in this episode because she is beginning to be more like how she was in season one, which I actually liked better. I liked the moment she had with Black Canary when her resolve was weakening for a drink but I wonder why she can't easily tell that it's Sara? Also she was cool at the end with how she blackmailed the district attorney to get her job back. Quentin continues to be a great character as well and him saving Arrow just proves how much he sides with him now but I wonder if there will be repercussions for him attacking another officer next episode? Sara was also great because besides having some great fight scenes with Huntress and her men, she was more of a main focus than Arrow and that always good because she is a badass. Finally the Flashbacks where not really that exciting and I wouldn't have minded if this was an episode that didn't have them, like the previous Huntress episode in season one.

"Wish I can fly like a canary right now!"
Overall this was a decent episode but I just really hate The Huntress and Diggle and Felicity could have had more screen time instead of having using some for Flashbacks. Plus I do know that "Birds of Prey" is the name for a DC heroine group that consists of Black Canary, The Huntress and others so that was another reason this episode disappointed me; we didn't get a cool team up like that because The Huntress isn't going to work with any team.

SCORE: 5/10

Highlights: Strong moments from the Lance Family
                   Great fighting scenes

Let - Downs: Huntress (I freaking hate her!)
                      Flashbacks
                      Not enough Diggle and Felicity



The great screenshots of the episodes where provided by the great site Screencapped. You can look for yourself from the link below;
 
 


http://screencapped.net/