THE JOKER NOT GETTING MAD LOVE?

If not for the internet, we wouldn't get to see anything beyond what would be shown on Entertainment Tonight (or something like that). But then, if not for the internet we wouldn't be exposed to so much hate. Unjustified most of the time. There was the Batfleck casting drama, Wonder Woman not being "big enough" type bullshlacka, and this time around even a clown can't get no love.

That's right, the recently revealed photo of Jared Leto as The Joker made its rounds across the web. While some have learned to take a "wait and see" approach to these things, the majority was already predicting failure for "Suicide Squad". That is usually the case though. People scream for change, yet shun new things (approaches).
Is Jared Leto giving us a version of The Joker that is traditional in the visual sense? No, even though his hair and figure is the closes there has been to the comic books version(s). His teeth? It actually makes sense. How many times has Batman knocked out Mr. J's teeth? One would be safe to assume that The Joker would want to "change them up" every now and again. Then there is the ink job. That is slightly understandable, but at the same time it is something "fresh". And The Joker would be one who may be too vain to get tattoos, but at the same time, he is narcissistic enough to get his "own" tattoos on himself. I wouldn't be shocked if we were to see a Batman logo inked on his back. It would actually "make sense" given his obsession with The Dark Knight.
And although there are still those who disliked Heath Ledger's rendition of The Joker, there were a massive amount of those who had to "eat crow" afterword. From his casting,  to how appeared in promo shots. Heath garnered the same amount of negativity. Sadly he wasn't alive to receive the Oscar, which he would've won regardless.

The funny thing is, while everyone argues over who was the better Joker, and where Leto's rendition will place him (even though we know nothing beyond one picture. one.) among them. Every incarnation of The Joker, even the apparent punk styling and likely "attitude", is actually a piece of who The Joker is. He's a variety of things, and is ever evolving. Just throwing that out there, even though I am sure many will rip both this article and Leto's Joker aha

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ROCK IS BLACK ADAM, BUT WHO IS SHAZAM?

It was a casting that was actually thought of years ago, when Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson was still a full-time wrestler and a rookie in the movie business. But, we now have The Rock playing the part of Black Adam in the future Shazam (Captain Marvel for those still unwilling to call him by his new name) movie that will be a part of DC Comics movieverse. So, now we are left with the question, who's going to play Shazam?

Before it became official, The Rock did give a clue as to who he was playing by saying "Shazam" (which is also the word used by both Adam and Shazam to summon their powers). With most of us knowing that likely meant he was playing Black Adam, given his personality and acting ability The Rock would've also made a great Shazam as well. At first, I was thinking it would have to be an actor with big muscles and all of that, but then remembered what Zack Snyder has done with Superman (Henry Cavill), Batman (Ben Affleck), and Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) and how it can really be any actor who could. They not be able to bulk up to the size of The Rock (who can also tone down), but they can simply bulk up and rely of their acting ability.

The person would have to be able to almost portray a man-child, as Shazam is still a kid named Billy Baston using magic to basically look like Superman (Fun fact: Captain Marvel was out selling Superman at one point in the golden days of comics). They also should have a slight youthfulness to their appearance. Top of my head there is only one name that comes to mind. Someone who I didn't think I would ever want, nor think should belong in a comic book movie. Although he can be quite funny at times in comedies, he tends to be the preference of our wives, girlfriends, and partners. That being Channing Tatum. He almost seems perfect for the role. He can add that needed immaturity to the role, he has that youthful look I referenced. And he is capable to add the required muscle mass as well. Over time I am sure more names could pop into my head, but for now this is who I would go with. If anything, he could add those "Twilight Numbers" (young women audiences) to the box office. Plus, remember what the late Heath Ledger did with the role of The Joker in The Dark Knight. Who's to say Tatum couldn't make this epic? Stay Nerdy!

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EXPANDING DC COMICS/CW's "ARROW/FLASH" UNIVERSE

There are those who hope that this is connected to the universe that will be expanded upon within the "Man Of Steel (2013)" follow-up. A movie that will have Superman now joined by Batman, Wonder Woman, Alfred Pennyworth and Lex Luthor. "Arrow" leading star, Stephen Amell, has stated that he wants the worlds to be connected. Given the popularity of the series that has spawned a spin-off series for the scarlet speedster in "The Flash", it wouldn't be too bad of an idea. Some may say that Marvel is doing this already with "Marvel Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D." However this is a chance to one up the competition by doing it better than them.
On the flip side there are those of course who are against this idea. Hard to argue with them as it is risky to do things in this manner. Especially given the fact that although "Man Of Steel (2013)" was successful, the follow-ups may not follow suit. The television series may falter themselves, with "The Flash" we don't even know if it will be worth watching past the pilot yet, and of course "Arrow" could begin to drop in quality. Either way, together they stand, together they could fall.

Both are right and wrong, however, for the upcoming list we will assume that the television universe that is "Arrow" and "The Flash" combined, and the movie universe stemming from "Man Of Steel (2013)", are completely separate from each other. "Arrow" has given us a few characters so far in the first two seasons. Characters like Deathstroke, Black Canary, as well as the members of Suicide Squad. The show even gave us The Flash himself, but with his being super-powered, it has opened the door for others to begin entering this universe.

Here are a list of characters that should begin to make appearances within CW's "The Flash" and "Arrow" universe....

Green Lantern Hal Jordan

Both of the lead characters of both shows have a deep history with the Green Lantern of Sector 2814. One that may never be portrayed on the big screen. Even if it is just Hal Jordan with no ring. This character needs to appear on these shows. I would prefer him in Green Lantern mode, with the dark setting the green would pop off the screens. Since he does more television than movies really, it would make a good opportunity for Nathan Fillion fans to finally get their wish. Regardless of who played him, Hal is a character that could be on both shows and help unite them at points if they chose to. Who knows, could lead to a successful spin-off himself.

 

Hawkman

One of the high points of "Smallville" was the inclusion of the members of "Justice Society". He may not have been a spot on rendition, but he was a nice addition to the show. Hawkman would almost fit perfectly into the "Arrow" side of things, so far appearing to be the darker of the two series. Perhaps, he could team with Arrow to form a new version of the "Justice Society" or even there own "Justice League Of America". Then again, Hawkgirl could be added to a new "Birds Of Prey" with Black Canary and Huntress. Either way could work.

The Red Hood Gang

No this would include the man who would become The Joker, it does however include Jason Todd, future Robin and/or Red Hood. Personally I would perhaps have this be a subset of the original group in Gotham City that is looking to expand the empire. Of course when they are stopped, they are too preoccupied in Gotham dealing with a Bat problem to retaliate. It would make for a good opportunity to introduce Roy and Jason Todd to each other. Either as a sign of things to come, or even to pay homage to the two currently teaming together with Starfire in the comic book "Red Hood And The Outlaws". Given Ra's al Ghul is somewhere within this universe, and the general tone of the book, Jason would make a good fit even if only an episode or two. Also as the obvious "Batman Teaser".

Zatanna

Preferably with a much darker persona, and a much larger magic display. CGI wise. Not complaining about the version that was on "Smallville" but new shows, darker approach. With The Flash, and a couple others characters reaching "super-power" status, it has opened the door for characters like Zatanna with her magic as well. She could open the door for other characters of the Justice League Dark to begin to appear within the "Arrow/The Flash" universe on television. Likely minus John Constantine given his new show, but there are others like Deadman or even Swamp Thing.

Batman/Bruce Wayne

It may not happen, and the reasons could be the same as "Smallville". They also may not want to risk someone portraying a better Batman than Affleck, or not want to have an inferior one on television. Another character that if accepted by the audience, could also get a spin-off series. Some may say that would be too much like "Arrow" already is, however there are a lot of key differences that would separate them, especially if it was written properly could make for a successful show that is different from the one in which it was spawned. FOX isn't going to be giving us the dark knight, their Bruce Wayne is way too young still for that to even be a possibility.

Wonder Woman

Another one who is very unlikely given her new found presence on the big screen via Gal Gadot. She was however very close to getting her own series before there were talks about there being a sequel to the "Man Of Steel (2013)". It is also hard at times not to wonder if Paradise Island isn't out there when we are taken back to Oliver's days as a castaway. Added the new super-power theme with the Mirakuru formula enhancing guys like Roy and Deathstroke, and as well as The Flash making his transformation via his traditional route. Could "save" the character if Gadot's upcoming rendition doesn't work out well.

Of course there is an endless list of characters directly from both worlds that should appear, but highly likely that they will appear at some point. It will be interesting to see if they allow any characters to do double duty. The given reason for Batman/Bruce Wayne not appearing on "Smallville" was that they weren't allowed because Nolan was currently using the franchise. Flash getting his own show makes one think that they will allow it, if they aren't planning to combine them into one universe. He is a key member of Justice League and it would be safe to assume that they plan to expand the roster beyond the trinity of Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman in the movies. One may mention that FOX's upcoming "Gotham" which will feature a young Bruce Wayne. FOX is a special breed. They are also giving one of two Quicksilver's in the upcoming X-Men: Days Of Future Past, while The Avengers: Age Of Ultron gives the other. Hollywood. Sheesh.

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STAN'S THE MAN, BUT WEST IS BEST

Okay, slightly misleading title, as they are different people who have different connections to the comic book and film industries, and of course the obvious Marvel Vs DC part of things. Stan Lee creator of Spider-Man and other Marvel icons, Adam West forever known as Bruce Wayne/Batman in the campy hit series "Batman" back in the 1960's. Perhaps it makes more sense to have Stan make cameos in the films of characters he's been known to have created or worked on, as they are in some cases his "babies". And if he were still alive today, would be nice to think that Batman creator Bob Kane would have gone the same route and made small appearances within Nolan's trilogy (although likely not as comedic as Stan's spots have been).

Why not Adam West then? We all have our preferences as to who is the best Dark Knight, but can anyone argue who is truly the most iconic of the small group? Was even the only Batman to have joined other members of the League on television shows, and of course voiced Batman in the final two seasons of Super Friends. Ben Affleck is about to become the second in the upcoming sequel to the Man Of Steel, but West was first. Add that the 60's Batman series about to finally be released in boxsets, West's version of the Caped Crusader will become fresh for the noobs and act as a refresher the memories of those who can't help but picture 60's Batman every time they see Mayor West on Family Guy. It wouldn't need to be campy, he wouldn't even really need any lines like George Lucas did with himself in Star Wars Episode III: Revenge Of The Sith.

With Wonder Woman being played by Gal Gadot, it would also be nice to see the almost original but definitely THE Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter make a cameo appearance at the least. Smallville had cameos of almost anyone from previous versions of DC Comics live-action films and shows, including Carter. Even the upcoming "Arrow" spin-off "The Flash" is going to have John Wesley Shipp, the actor who played the scarlet speedster in the 1990's tv show based on the character. Why not have a glance of Adam West and Lynda Carter together perhaps sightseeing or having dinner together as some incident or action sequence begins and we see them looking up. Anything, really. Just them for now as well. If we allow Michael Keaton then we may open the door for Kilmer or Clooney, and they need to be forgotten. I would think about Nicholson, but he may demand a bigger role.

Sure, most may prefer that the cameo spots go to creators like Stan Lee, but nobody has put themselves out there so much that they are just as known as the characters they create. His is Stan "The Man" after all.

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DC MOVIE UNIVERSE

With the recent announcement (and uproar) of the casting of Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor, and Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth, the DC Movie Universe has expanded again. Looking at the size of the cast, it is hard to argue with the rumor that the delay in production and pushed back premiere is due to them filming more than one film, however there is the fact that apparently even a small delay of a week or two would push the opening back about 10 months. However, being a fan of how they shot the Lord Of The Rings trilogy, I am hoping there's more than one film being made in succession. Otherwise, there are a lot of stars and a lot of story to cover in a two hour time frame. We shall see.

Superman/Kal El/Clark Kent (Henry Cavill)

Star of the first installment, Cavill dawns the "S" once again. With all the additions, hard not to ask how much of Superman's story will be pushed to the back.

Lois Lane (Amy Adams)

Also returning is Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Like Superman, it will be interesting to see how the other characters being added will not just effect her story, but the story between Lois Lane and Superman/Clark Kent.

Perry White (Laurence Fishburne)

His role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was smaller, but important to showing the reaction of the city during the attack by Zod and company. I see possibly a smaller role in upcoming movies that are not Superman focused.

Martha Kent (Dianne Lane)

Ma Kent is coming back too. Her role in "Man Of Steel" (2013) was as expected, with Dianne giving a great motherly performance (I liked the scene at school with a little CK). Perhaps we'll see more interaction between her and Lois this time around.

Batman/Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck)

The casting that caused the worlds largest bowel movement amongst a large section of Bat-Fans not wanting to take the wait and see approach. After all is said and done, one side will be eating words. Hopefully the supporters are the ones proven right this time around. Until then we can all speculate what the Bat-Suit will look like. Can't see a "tights" style as that was technically already done by Adam West in the 60's. Hoping for an Arkham Origins video game style personally.

Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot)

Another casting that had mixed reviews, most of which was directed at her size. But, if anyone has watched Zach Snyder's past films, should have zero worries on that subject. For the first time since Lynda Carter did in the mid 1970's, Wonder Woman is coming to us in live action form and it's about time! And here's hoping for a solo spin-off film if all goes well. Very curious as to what her wardrobe will look like. Classic style? Pants? Xena-like? A brand new, unique take on something?

Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg)

With nothing but rumors and speculation since the casting of Batman and Wonder Woman, and with heavy assumptions on who should and will play Lex Luthor, with names like Bryan Cranston, Mark Strong, among others being passed around. The part was finally cast, and like those who proceeded him, Jessee Eisenberg has received some negative feed back. Also like the others, talented enough for most of us to take a wait and see approach.

Alfred Pennyworth (Jeremy Irons)

Along with Lex, it was announced that the role of Batman/Bruce Wayne's closest confidant Alfred Pennyworth has been cast. Haven't read nor heard anything negative feedback on this one, which is far from surprising. The world of the new Batman has improved even more.

It's hard to say exactly which characters will be added to this ever growing and ever talented cast. "Arrow" tv star Stephen Amell claims that the "Arrow" universe may be connected to this one. Of course, Marvel is using Agents Of S.H.I.E.L.D. as part of their cinematic universe, so it's not far fetched. It would mean we know who Green Arrow, Arsenal, among others are, and with The Flash just finishing up his debut on the show, and set to get his own, we would know who the fourth member of Justice League is (possible title for M.O.S. follow-up). Plus, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is set to possibly join this universe also. One thing is for sure, DC Comics is at least making an effort to bring us their universe, personally liking what they are giving.

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