The Dolls Take on a Classic Drag Race Challenge With a UK Twist

RuPaul's Drag Race UK, Episode 3: "Posh On a Penny"

The dolls are slaying the game and they continue to do so. This episode puts a UK twist on one of "RuPaul's Drag Race" most dependable challenges. Let's dive in to the dolls do-it-yourself design challenge.

"Girl of Steel" Supergirl Recaps: "The Stranger Beside Me" & "Blurred Lines"

Supergirl

"Supergirl" continues to set things up which is one of the issues when you're dealing with a 22 episode or more season. Let's continue to find out what Kara and company will be dealing with in their fifth season.

"The Dark Knight' Batwoman Recaps: "The Rabbit Hole" & "Down Down Down"

Batwoman

"Batwoman" is being a bit of a slow burn. I'm not sure if that is great when we are talking about a CW superhero show. But here we are. So, let's take a look at how Kate Kane is doing as she appropriates the mantle of her cousin.

"You Have Failed This City" Arrow Recaps: "Starling City"

Arrow

"Arrow" was the first of the CW's superhero shows and it is almost right that it will be the first of them to shuffle off into the television graveyard. "Arrow" will be remembered as long as a DC superhero show airs on the CW since the shared universe was dubbed the Arrowverse. "Arrow" has had some ups and downs in the past few years. The last season was mainly a down. It ended with Emily Bett Rickards', Felicity, leaving the show and Ollie leaving Star City to fulfill the bargain he made with the Monitor.  "Arrow"s final season will consist of 10 episodes less than half of what a usual season consists of. We know that one episode will be "Arrow's" contribution to the "Crisis on Infinite Earths" crossover and one will be a backdoor pilot for a spin-off called "Canaries" that will focus on Ollie and Felicity's grown daughter, Mia along with Black Canaries, Dinah Drake and Laurel Lance. I think ten episodes is just what "Arrow" needs to deliver a tight and compelling final season. Let's take a look at the premiere and see if I'm right.

The Dolls Face Their First Acting Challenge as RuPaul's Drag Race UK Continues To Be Much Better Than It's American Counterpart

RuPaul's Drag Race UK, Episode 2: "Downton Draggy"

The UK dolls are slaying the game and renewing my faith in Drag Race. This episode is just as good as the premiere. The girls get their first acting challenge, so let's dive right in. Cheerio!

"Run" The Flash Recaps: "Into the Void"

The Flash

"The Flash" remains the highest rated Arrowverse show as it moves into it's sixth season and its easy to see why. Grant Gustin is always personable even when Barry is being a bonehead. When it wants to be, it can be the anti-"Arrow," fun and light when the former is dark and depressing. 

When we left Team Flash, Barry and Iris were reeling from the loss of their daughter, Nora, who was seemingly erased from the timeline. Cisco had taken the meta human cure so he could finally have a normal line and a chance at love with Camilla. Caitlin and Killer Frost were still trying to figure out their new normal and Ralph was well Ralph.

"The Dark Knight" Batwoman Recaps: "Pilot"

Batwoman

The Arrowverse is the CW's cash cow. Ever since "Arrow" premiered it has introduced spin-off after spin-off. You'd think with "Arrow" ending this season that things would be slowing down. But they are not. When she was introduced in last years "Elseworlds" crossover, Batwoman was a fan favorite. It wasn't a huge surprise when it was announced that they were producing a pilot and that the pilot was picked up. Last Sunday, Kate Kane made her auspicious debut into the Arrowverse. How did it go? Read on to find out.

"Girl of Steel" Supergirl Recaps: "Event Horizon"

Supergirl

"Supergirl" started back on CBS and moved to the CW with it's second season, which is probably where it should have been all along. Each season, the show has gotten better and better. "Supergirl" has always had the best ensemble of all the Arrowverse shows, but sometimes its earnestness was its greatest strength and its greatest weakness. Last season, the show really seemed to find its groove. The fantasy genre, from sci-fi, superhero, etc, likes to use it's fantastical storytelling to mirror real life issues and "Supergirl" did a great job of taking on Trump's America with its aliens as immigrants allegory. Ben Lockwood's fanaticism was meant to evoke Trump's followers.

When we left Kara and company, Lena had murdered her brother, Lex, but not before he revealed that Kara was Supergirl. Brainy, recovered from his reversion to a cold being of pure intelligence, began his relationship with Nia Nal. The Monitor brought Lex back to life and brought J'onn's brother to exact some sort of revenge. Eve Tessmacher was approached by a representative from a group calling themselves Leviathan.

God Save the Queens! It Turns Out a Trip Across the Pond is Just What Drag Race Needed

RuPaul's Drag Race UK, Episode 1: "The Royal Queens"

Since it debuted in 2009, "RuPaul's Drag Race" has become a cultural phenomenon and a critical darling. As it's popularity and acclaim has grown, the show has expanded. Where we used to have one season per year and an All-Stars iteration to look forward to every few years, now we have both in a year. It's fair to be on the verge of Drag Race overload, even if you're a super fan like yours truly. Then, Ru decided to take Drag Race overseas. There are already off shoots of Drag Race airing overseas like "Drag Race Thailand" but the UK version is the first that is officially branded and features Mama Ru hosting and judging along with Michelle Visage. And believe me when I say, "RuPaul's Drag Race UK" is enough to make even the most jaded fan remember why they fell in love with the show in the first place.

"Fuck Batman" Titans Recap: "Rose," "Ghosts" & "Aqualad"

Titans

So, clearly, I'm still getting back into the swing of things. I'm definitely going to get back into a weekly schedule, but this week it's your lucky day. You get three "Titans" recaps in one. It's still really early, but is it possible that "Titans" is turning a corner quality-wise? Read on to find out.

"Fuck Batman" Titans Season Two Premiere Recap: "Trigon"

Titans

Oh man, everyone. Can you all believe that we are ready to start season 2 of "Titans." If you followed my season one recaps (or watched the show), you know that "Titans" had some growing pains. A lot of growing pains. It varied wildly in quality, but was still a show that compelled you to watch. As a fan of the Teen Titans, I have a lot of hope for season 2. They've promoted Minka Kelly, Conor Leslie and Alan Ritchson who play Donna Troy, Dove and Hawk respectively to series regulars. Deathstroke, a classic Titans villain is set to the big bad, and Superboy. So, here's hoping that season 2 can be better than its predecessor. 

"In the Name of the Moon" Rewatch: "The Mysterious Sleeping Sickness: Protect the Girls in Love" & "Learn How to Be Skinny from Usagi"

Sailor Moon

Yeesh. Talk about being behind. It's been almost five months since the first installment of my "Sailor Moon" re-watch. You think that's bad? Just wait until I get started again on "Orphan Black." I don't know about you all, but I'm ready to dive right back into the adventures of my favorite magical girls.

"I Am the Night" Rewatch: "Showdown" & "Riddler's Reform"

Batman The Animated Series

So, the last time I posted on my blog was in April. Yikes. Life has been super crazy and stressful and sad and all the things. But, things are just starting to feel better and get back to normal, so I figured it was time to re-start the blog for the, let's see here, millionth time? I had found a really good groove before things went off the rails, so I'm ready to get back to it and why not re-start things with B: TAS. Here we go again.

A Lip Sync For the Ages Saves a Snatch Game at Sea From Sinking Like the Titanic

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 8: "Snatch Game at Sea"

Lordt. That episode was something wasn't it? Kind of a roller coaster ride quality wise. Some amazing highs and some crazy lows. Let's not waste too much time and just get right into it.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Captain America: Civil War

"Captain America: Civil War" (2016)

The unofficial third "Avengers" movie, "Captain America: Civil War" not only closes out the "Captain America" trilogy of films in a spectacular fashion, it also resets the table for the remainder of Phase 3. It's an ambitious film that pays homage to one of the more recent comics masterpieces, but also introduces some fan favorite Marvel characters that will become key parts of the MCU in the years and films to come.

The comic storyline for "Civil War" saw Captain America and Iron Man at odds not over Sokovia but over a tragedy closer to home. When reality stars the New Warriors take part in a battle with the villain Nitro that results in the destruction of a lot of Stamford, Connecticut, the US government decides that superheroes anonymity is no longer a right. There were a ton of huge things that happened in this mini from Spider-Man unmasking to Iron Man cloning Thor to Iron Man using super villains to go after Cap. It was huge. So, it was great to see a version of it pulled into the MCU.

"Captain America: Civil War" brings back Chris Evans as Steve Rogers/Captain America, Robert Downey, Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, Scarlet Johansson as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow, Anthony Mackie as Sam Wilson/Falcon, Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch, Paul Bettany as Vision, Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes/the Winter Soldier, Don Cheadle as James "Rhodey" Rhodes/War Machine, Jeremy Renner as Clint Barton/Hawkeye, Paul Rudd as Scott Lang/Ant-Man and introduces Chadwick Boseman as T'Challa/Black Panter and Tom Holland as Peter Parker/Spider-Man. It was written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeeley and directed by Anthony and Joe Russo. It was released in theaters May 6, 2016.

The Dolls Go GMO Free In The Thousandth Design Challenge of the Season

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 7: "From Farm to Runway"

Ra'Jah O'Hara is having a breakdown. I feel like when you go on a reality show, especially a reality competition show, you can have a couple of different reactions to negative experiences. If you're doing poorly, you can accept that you're struggling, maybe this wasn't for you, learn and grow. Or, you can flip out, attack your fellow contestants and for all intents and purposes show your ass on national television on a weekly basis. Guess what route Ra'Jah decided to take? She enters the Werk Room and is initially not going to read Scarlet's farewell mirror message because we've heard enough from Scarlet. Yikes. The other queens pretty much browbeat her into reading it, but Ra'Jah can't stop kicking Scarlet when she's down. She's gone, Ra'Jah. Calm down. It's ridiculous for someone to be so upset about having their name said on the runway to go home. Clearly, Ra'Jah knows there's something to it. 

After the meeting on the red couch where Ra'Jah dubs herself the lip sync assassin of season 11, she continues to bad mouth her "cysters" in her confessionals. Sidebar: can we retire the term lip sync assassin? Being in the bottom two times and not going home when there's still 10 or 11 queens doesn't make you a lip sync assassin, just a bad contestant. And how does trying to read Yvie, Plastique and Nina make you look better? Plot twist. It doesn't.

The Dolls Hit the Mat and Go For the Gold in the First Ever Draglympics

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 6: "The Draglympics"

Oh Ra'Jah D. O'Hara. You certainly aren't doing a lot to endear yourself to Drag Race fans. Ra'Jah is hard to read. I can't decide if her asides would be like fun shade if they were delivered by someone else or in a different way. This could just be her personality. Who knows? I do know that her haters aren't going to be changing their tune anytime soon, especially if they watched the preview for tomorrow night's episode. It's rough. Ra'Jah just comes off as cruel and that is never a good look in a situation like this. I know she's gotten a lot of hate on social media because of the results of the lip sync and if you're reading this and are one of those people, cut it the fuck out. Ra'Jah didn't make the decision. 

"Super Zeroes" Doom Patrol Recap: "Paw Patrol" & "Doom Patrol Patrol"

Doom Patrol

Welp. I got a little bit behind, so similar to my "Fuck Batman" "Titans" recaps, we'll do two episodes this go round and most likely next week. Then, we should be back to our regularly scheduled one per week "Doom Patrol" recaps. Unless, I fall behind again, which, let's be real, is a distinct possibility.

Keep Your Paws Down, It's a Halloween Monster's Ball

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"I Am the Night" Rewtach: "Baby-Doll" & "The Lion and the Unicorn"

Batman The Animated Series

Happy Birthday, Batman. Today, the Dark Knight Detective turns 80 and he doesn't look a day over 75! I keed, I keed. March has been a big month for Batman. Last week, "Detective Comics," the series that introduced him to the world, hit issue 1000. It's only the second comic series to hit that particular milestone. Batman continues to be one of the most popular comic book characters out there. Not too shabby for an octogenarian. It's the perfect time to check in on "B: TAS."

Drag Race Continues to Get Political As the Dolls Take On Trump and the Women That Love and Love to Hate Him

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 4: "Trump The Rusical"

In the early days of "RuPaul's Drag Race," it took a very apolitical bent and that was by design. RuPaul is on record as saying that she didn't want it to be too political or too polarizing. In the current political climate, that may seem odd. Heck, it might seem odd for back then, especially when you factor in how active trans women and drag queens, especially those of color, have been in fighting for so many of the rights we have today. But, we have to remember that when Drag Race premiered in 2009, they were in the halcyon days of the Obama presidency. We still believed in hope and change and we believed those things would last. 

But as days have gotten darker to coincide with Trump's rise, Ru has lifted the Drag Race political ban even hosting Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi in the Werk Room. And now, for this episode's maxi challenge, we get "Trump: The Rusical." A bunch of men dressed as women making fun of the President and singing about pussy power, may not seem super revolutionary, but in today's Twitter charged political climate it definitely is.

Comics Corner: Batman - Death of the Family

Batman

When DC launched the New 52, the Bat books were missing a key component. The Clown Prince of Crime. The Joker. In the first issue of the New 52 "Detective Comics" relaunch, The Joker cut his face off and left it as a gift. It was being held by GCPD. When Scott Snyder began his instant classic run on "Batman," you knew it was only a matter of time before he threw Joker into the mix. A year into his run, he decided to deliver one of the definitive Joker stories of all time.

When the Dolls Lead Diva Worship, The Audience Becomes Converts To the Church of Miss Vanjie

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 3: "Diva Worship"

I don't talk too much about "Untucked" because I feel like it is just a supplement for the main show. You should be able to watch "RuPaul's Drag Race" only and get the full experience no matter what Ru says in the intro. I feel like it's important to talk about this week's "Untucked" because it might help inform things in the future. It all goes back to this season's most polarizing dragtestant, Silky Nutmeg Ganache. Silky was part of the winning team and it feels all good, but she's upset. She claims that it's because she didn't feel comfortable as a woman of God, but in reality, it seems like she was pouting because the team didn't go with her choice of Whitney Houston. It seems that Yvie will be the whistleblower of this season and the fight that breaks out is really baffling. Why did Silky think she was going to have to lip sync? Why did she tear that away and then "perform?" For someone who prides herself on being real, the whole thing feels very produced and fake.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Ant-Man

"Ant-Man" (2015)

Marvel just released a major movie, "Avengers: Age of Ultron," that had some big stuff happen. Hulk took off. The Avengers officially learned about the Infinity Stones. They gained a few new recruits and a new base. A whole country was almost destroyed. It's not like "Infinity War" big, but that's a lot. So, why not use the next film to decompress a little bit. Have a little fun. That's exactly what happens in "Ant-Man."

"Ant-Man" went through some hardships going from announcement to screen. Initially acclaimed director, Edgar Wright, was signed on to write and direct "Ant-Man." Wright was famous for the action comedies, "Shaun of the Dead," "Hot Fuzz," "The World's End" and "Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World," amongst others. There was a lot of excitement. Wright brought a lot of excitement and a lot of disappointment when he ended up leaving the project over creative differences. Wright is still credited as a screenwriter on the film, but we'll never know how much of his original script remained intact. 

As always, it's great to see Marvel continuing to bring lesser known, kind of out there heroes to the big screen. The focus is the second Ant-Man in the comics, former thief, Scott Lang. Hank Pym isn't neglected though. Hank was a founding member of the Avengers in the comics, so maybe it's not a huge shock that he got a solo film.

"Ant-Man" stars Paul Rudd as Scott Lang, Michael Douglas as Hank Pym, Evangeline Lily as Hope Van Dyne and Corey Stoll as Darren Cross. The film also stars Michael Pena, T.I., Judy Greer, Bobby Cannavale and a special appearance by Anthony Mackie. The screenplay was written by Edgar Wright, Joe Cornish, Adam McKay and Paul Rudd from a story by Edgar Wright and Joe Cornish. It was directed by Peyton Reed. The film opened nationwide July 17, 2015.

"Super Zeroes" Doom Patrol Recap: "Cult Patrol"

Doom Patrol

I'm a little late with this one. I hope you all did a little research on the Animal-Vegetable-Mineral Man and next you'll have to do some on the Decreator. That's your homework. Now without further adieu, let's get into the fourth episode.

The Queens Parody Some Prestige Dramas, But the Most Drama Is Happening In The Werk Room

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 2: "Good God Girl, Get Out"

I feel like I would be remiss if I didn't mention the things that have came out about this season's most controversial contestant, Silky Nutmeg Ganache. Since the show has started, its gone way past her being really loud and overpowering. She's made a joke that reeks of Islamophobia towards Mercedes Iman Diamond, the show's first Muslim contestant. There have been some sexual assault allegations made against her. She hasn't really addressed any of these things, which is not a great look. It's hard to be objective about her, in regards to what I'm seeing on the show, but I'm going to do my best. That being said, let's dive in.

The queens head back to the Werk Room after the first elimination and say good-bye to their "cyster," Soju. It's clear some of the queens doin't think Soju should have shared that, but I'm all for it. Don't let them cyst shame you, girl. Brooke Lynn is feeling her oats after winning the first challenge, but Scarlet is not having it and tries to say that her dress is so great and she should have been in the top. Brooke Lynn wastes no time in pointing out the holes and puckering in the garment. You could seem them from space. They seem to be setting up a rivalry between Brooke Lynn and Scarlet? It's early so it could fizzle out like the hyped rivalry between Miz Cracker and Aquaria last season.

"In the Name of the Moon" Rewatch: "The Crybaby: Usagi's Beautiful Transformation" & "Punishment Awaits: The House of Fortune Is the Monster Mansion"

Sailor Moon

First off, happy International Women's Day! I feel like kicking of my "Sailor Moon" rewatch/recap today is very apropos. I've always felt that "Sailor Moon" was very empowering and really showcased all sides of "strong women." Usagi is clutzy and cries, but she is very empathetic and courageous, there's fiery Rei, brainy Ami, strong and sensitve Mako, fierce and lovely, Minako. They complement each other and compensate for each other's weaknesses. They learn from each other and grow.

"Sailor Moon" premiered on Japanese television 27 years ago, yesterday, March 7, 1992, adapted from the successful manga by Naoko Takeuchi It wouldn't debut in the United States until 1995 and it would be a bastardized version at that. Character names were changed. Genders were changed to make it less queer and more palatable to impressionable English speaking audiences. Despite that, I loved it. As a 12-year-old gay boy, I was entranced by the transformations, the attacks, the stories. I remember spending summers at my grandparents watching on the USA Network. I wouldn't watch the original, unedited episodes until my early '20's and it made my appreciation for "Sailor Moon" grow even more. 

The past few years, Viz Media has been releasing re-mastered editions on blu-ray featuring the original Japanese voice acting and a new English dub featuring the original cast. It's time for a re-watch! This will be similar to my "Batman: The Animated Series" re-watch and I'm really excited to get started. If you've never watched "Sailor Moon" and want to follow along, I encourage it! The whole series is on Hulu for you to enjoy.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Avengers: Age of Ultron

"Avengers: Age of Ultron" (2015)

Iron Man, Thor and Captain America have all had their second solo films, so it's time for Earth's Mightiest Heroes to team up for the second time to face a threat that's too big for any one hero to face themselves. Even if that enemy is one that a member of the team created. Whoops.

Much like "Captain America: The Winter Solider" this movie takes it's subtitle from a comics arc that was relatively recent. In the comics, "Age of Ultron" was an alternate history where Ultron realized his dream of a cyborg domination and Earth's heroes form an underground resistance to stop him. It has nothing to do with this movie, but it's still a good read. You should check it out.

"Avengers: Age of Ultron" reunites the OG Avengers: Robert Downey, Jr as Iron Man, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Chris Evans as Captain America, Scarlet Johannson as Black Widow, Mark Ruffalo as Dr. Bruce Banner/The Hulk and Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye. They are joined by Elizabeth Olsen and Aaron Taylor-Johnson's, Wanda "Scarlet Witch" Maximoff and Pietro "Quicksilver" Maximoff. Paul Bettany appears in the flesh, sort of, as the Vision and James Spader voices Ultron. "Avengers: Age of Ultron" was written and directed by Joss Whedon. It opened nationwide on May 1, 2015.

"Fuck Batman" Titans Recap: "Dick Grayson"

Titans

It's been a long, strange journey these past 11 episodes. I admittedly wasn't in favor of this when I first saw the trailer and I was full of trepidation when I began watching. I'm definitely invested in the show and I didn't think that I would be. The quality of the episodes has varied, sometimes wildly from one end of the spectrum to the other. Everything has led up to this. Dick has entered to try to save Raven and stop Trigon. The final battle begins.

"Super Zeroes" Doom Patrol Recap: "Puppet Patrol"

Doom Patrol

I never in a million years thought that "Doom Patrol" on the DC Universe streaming service would be one of the things that I look forward to the most in a week. I'm already dreading when the season ends and I'm ready to start campaigning for a second season. 

In the Season 11 Premiere, All the Queens Are Trying to Stand Out, But One Just Loves Munch Munching That Scenery

RuPaul's Drag Race, Episode 1: "Whatcha Unpackin'"

It feels like only yesterday we were watching Ru wuss out and crown two queens the winners of All-Stars 4. Oh wait. It was like two weeks ago. We can wash that away though, because we are leaving the scheming and lipstick pulling of All-Stars, for the arbitrary whims of RuPaul in a regular Drag Race season. We have 15 queens, the most of any season of Drag Race, so let's go.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Guardians of the Galaxy

"Guardians of the Galaxy" (2014)

When Marvel decided to stop selling it's characters to outside movie studios and begin making their own movies, starting with Iron Man seemed like a bold choice at the time. Outside of comic fans he wasn't as well known as say Spider-Man or the X-Men. That choice paid off and audiences responded to their other films and soon the Avengers were household names. With all this goodwill they had banked, Marvel decided to see how far that really went by making a movie about the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Despite what a lot of people may think, the Guardians aren't new exactly. The first team was from an alternate future in the 31st century. The modern incarnation of the team (Star-Lord, Gamora, Rocket Raccoon, Drax the Destroyer and Groot) in 2008. The team came together following Marvel's first "Annihilation" cosmic event.

"Guardians of the Galaxy" stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Karen Gillan, Lee Pace, Benicio del Toro, John C. Reilly, Glenn Close and the voices of Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel. The screenplay was written by James Gunn and Nicole Perlman and directed by James Gunn. The film was released in theaters on August 1, 2014.

"I Am the Night" Rewatch: "Catwalk" & "Bane"

Batman: The Animated Series

I know I've probably said this a million times, but it's a testament to the strength of Batman's rogues gallery that this far into B: TAS there are still new villains to be introduced and major ones at that. When I was a kid, I was pretty obsessed with Bane. The Knightfall saga, where Bane breaks Batman's back, was the first big comic crossover that I tried to collect. I remember going to local gas stations, grocery stores, to try to get every issue. What I'm trying to say is, Bane's a big deal, even today. In the current run of "Batman," he's still making the Dark Knight's life hell behind the scenes.

"Super Zeroes" Doom Patrol Recap: "Donkey Patrol"

Doom Patrol

I thought I would take this moment to recommend some "Doom Patrol" comics to people. The most famous "Doom Patrol" run is Grant Morrison's. Grant Morrison is a renowned comic book writer and he is known for being weird. And as you probably gathered if you've watched both episodes, weird is the Doom Patrol's stock in trade. You can pick up Morrison's whole run in The Doom Patrol Omnibus. If that's too rich for your blood, it's divided into three smaller volumes: Doom Patrol Book One, Two and Three. If you're looking for a more modern take on the Doom Patrol, former My Chemical Romance frontman, Gerard Way, tackled the team back in 2017 when DC launched it's Young Animal imprint. If you've read Way's first venture into comic writing, "The Umbrella Academy" or watched the Netflix series it's based on, you know that he also has a penchant for weird. You can pick up Way's "Doom Patrol" run in the graphic novels, Doom Patrol, Vol 1: Brick by Brick & Doom Patrol, Vol 2: Nada.

Comics Corner: Astonishing X-Men by Charles Soule - Life of X

Astonishing X-Men

Ever since Joss Whedon wrote the first 24 issues of "Astonishing X-Men," the title has served as a way for well known writers to play in the X-Men sandbox without having to worry too much about the convoluted continuity the franchise is known for. After Whedon and artist John Cassady left, Warren Ellis, Simone Bianchi, Kaare Andrews, Greg Pak, Phil Jimenez and Marjorie Liu all tried their hands. 

For the most recent volume of "Astonishing X-Men," Charles Soule took the reins. Soule has been a rising star in the comics industry for the past few years. He started out at DC writing everything from "Swamp Thing" to "Superman." He moved to Marvel in 2014 and wrote an amazing run of "She-Hulk." He helped bring the Inhumans to the forefront and shepherded the death and return of Wolverine. It's not a huge shock that Marvel decided to have him take over and he had big plans.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Captain America: The Winter Soldier

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier" (2014)

The third founding Avenger gets his second film with "Captain America: The Winter Soldier." While the movie continues Cap's story, it also introduces two people that have become an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Russo: Anthony and Joe Russo. The Russo Brothers have become kind of architects when it comes to major developments in the MCU. And after seeing this movie, it makes a lot of sense why they were chosen.

This is also the first Marvel movie that takes an arc from the comics and really uses a lot of the beats. When Ed Brubaker took over "Captain America" he decided to break the cardinal rule of comics. There have always been two characters that have are untouchable: Uncle Ben and Bucky Barnes. Well, Brubaker threw that out the window. It turns out Bucky Barnes didn't die back in World War 2. His body was recovered by the Russians and he was brainwashed into becoming the assassin, the Winter Soldier. It's really the perfect premise for a film. So, Marvel decided to make it into one.

"Captain America: The Winter Soldier" brings Chris Evans back as Captain America and Scarlet Johansson's Black Widow. The film also stars Samuel L. Jackson, Sebastian Stan, Anthony Mackie, Colbie Smulders and Robert freaking Redford. The screenplay was written by Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely. The movie opened nationwide on April 4, 2014.

When the All-Stars Transform Into Super Queens, Drag Race Herstory Is Made... For Better or Worse

RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, Episode 10: "Super Queen Grand Finale"

Well... that happened. I know that we all want to talk about the ending to this finale and we will definitely get there. I'm not super pleased with what happened, but I have to keep reminding myself that the outcome of everything is not the reason that I watch the show. I watch the show because I really appreciate the art of drag. I love being exposed to these queens that I never would have seen otherwise and watching them grow and do things that they. have never done before. I watch to be entertained and outraged sometimes. I know that rarely does the queen that I love or the one I think is most deserving is going to win. So, with that at the forefront of our minds, let's take a look at the All-Stars 4 finale.

"Super Zeroes" Doom Patrol Recap: "Pilot"

Doom Patrol

DC Universe launched it's second original series this week. It's already got the grim and gritty "Titans," which as you know we've been recapping here on the blog. You may remember that the Doom Patrol was part of "Titans," but you don't have to have watched that episode to enjoy this. There's no mention of it at all. I really feel like "Doom Patrol" owes a debt to both "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Deadpool." I really never thought that I'd see a live-action Doom Patrol and I'm really glad that I have.

"Fuck Batman" Titans Recap: "Hank and Dawn" & "Koriand'r"

Titans

"Titans" set up a pretty great cliff hanger. Kory is going to kill Rachel! We are finally going to get some answers. I was excited to fire up the next episode and... learn more about Hawk & Dove's backstory. Groan.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Thor: The Dark World

"Thor: The Dark World" (2013)

Phase Two is a lot like Phase One at this point. Time to give the Avengers that had solo flicks a sequel to that solo flick leading up to a new Avengers movie. Rinse, repeat. I can understand why Marvel initially went this route. They had these stars contracted. This is all still really new. Why rock the boat at this point, when they will definitely start doing that very soon.

Iron Man got his threequel and now it's time for the God of Thunder to get his. Director Kenneth Branagh decided sit this one out so Alan Taylor took over. Don't be surprised if his name doesn't ring any bells, aside from this movie, the only other movie he directed of note is "Terminator: Genisys" and the jury's out on whether that was of note. Chris Hemsworth, Natalie Portman, Idris Elba, Kat Dennings, Stellan Skarsgard, Rene Russo, Jamie Alexander and Anthony Hopkins returned. They were joined by the Ninth Doctor himself, Christopher Eccleston and Mr. Eko from "Lost," Adewale Akkinuoye. Zachary Levi replaced Josh Dallas as Fandral since he couldn't get out his duties filming "Once Upon a Time." "Thor: The Dark World" premiered on November 8, 2013.

"I Am the Night" Rewatch: "Harlequinade" & "Time Out of Joint"

Batman The Animated Series

We ended last time with a pretty lackluster episode, which is no bueno. Did the trend reverse this week? Let's not waste anytime and find out.

With Only One Challenge Before the Finale, It's Any All-Stars Game

RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, Episode 9: "Sex and the Kitty Girl"

This season of All-Stars has been really good and I'm sad to see it end. Sure I'm bummed to see Manila gone, but I appreciate that all of the remaining queens are in it to win it and they aren't worried about how the way they are playing the game might look and that is super refreshing actually.  Heading into the finale, it's really anyone's game and it feels like a lot is riding on this final challenge, more than it has in any of the other penultimate challenges.

Re-Visiting the Marvel Cinematic Universe: Iron Man 3

"Iron Man 3" (2013)

[So, I started writing this back in 2017, when I initially began this little project. Clearly, it fell by the wayside, but I'm committed to bringing it back. I just started re-watching the MCU movies to get ready for "Captain Marvel," so it's the perfect time. And as luck would have it, I just finished "Iron Man 3.]

"Marvel's The Avengers" did OK. Understatement of the century. The film that brought together the MCU's heaviest hitters for the first time was an unqualified, smashing success. It shattered box office records at the time of it's release including but not limited to highest grossing opening weekend and week, May opening, superhero film of all time. Needless to say, Marvel Studios was riding high. 

"The Avengers" closed the book on Phase One of the MCU after effectively telling the origin stories of the main Avengers and bringing them together. It was time to move on to Phase Two and "Iron Man 3" is the film to usher in that era. Shane Black joins the franchise taking over directing duties from Jon Favreau. Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Don Cheadle and Jon Favreau return and are joined by series newcomers Guy Pearce and SIR Ben Kingsley. The film opened on May 3, 2013.

When the All-Stars Get a Visit From Their Best Judy's, a Shocking Elimination Will Change Up the Game

RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, Episode 8: "RuPaul's Best Judy's Race"

First off, this is way late and I'm really sorry. I got a horrible toothache Friday night and was out of commission until Tuesday. I'm doing well, and I'm going to do my best to keep things short and sweet this week, but that could be difficult.

I was firmly Team Manila. When the rumors were circulating that Manila was returning for All-Stars, I thought that it would be a wrap and she would finally have a crown and scepter. Well, that wasn't to be. Naomi needed a win and she got it this week. People gripe about the All-Stars format, but I think it's great. I think the reasoning is valid and it kind of gives you an insight into who the queens are. There is no rule book. You don't want to go home, don't land in the bottom two. Naomi clearly saw Manila as strong competition and decided to take her out while she could. It was her decision. It was her right. Now, do I agree with it? No. Do I respect it? No. But that being said, Naomi deserves zero hate on social media. Don't tweet hateful, racist shit at her. That's not cool. She doesn't deserve it. You're not doing it for Manila, because I can guarantee you that since this was filmed almost a year ago, Manila is over it. Don't be trash. 

"Fuck Batman" Titans Recap: "Asylum" & "Donna Troy"

Titans

As a comic book nerd all my life, there are some things that I thought I'd never see. As comic book movies/television shows etc have become bigger and bigger business, the list of those things has gotten shorter and shorter. That being said, even with two "Guardians of the Galaxy" movies out there, I never in a million years thought that I'd see a live action Donna Troy on my television screen. Yet here she is. Donna Troy is the original Wonder Girl. She also has one of the most confusing histories of any comic book character ever and that is saying quite a bit. She's a founding member of the Teen Titans and is currently leading the Titans team in the comics. She's a bad ass and even if Titans was doing everything wrong, watching the show would be a must for me simply because she was on it. 

Doctor Who For Dummies: Series 7 Part 1

Doctor Who - Series 7 Part 1 (2012)

We are doing something a little different here. This isn't the first time that "Doctor Who" has split into two separate halves. I usually just deal with the series as a whole. I felt like it was best to deal with each part on their own because they feel like two distinct parts. The first part deals with the Ponds and how they end their time traveling with the Doctor. It's a big moment and these last few episodes deserve their own post. So, let's get right to it.

When the All-Stars Host Their Own Club Nights, Not Everyone Wants to Party All the Time

RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, Episode 7: "Queen of Clubs"

It's episode 7 and we still have 7 queens, so that's great. Monique is not pleased that she and Latrice both stayed. I certainly respect a queen that understands this is a reality tv show and Monique clearly knows that. She knows that the producers gave Latrice this "redemption moment" to make for good TV, but she's not super into it. Aside from Manila, I'm not sure the other queens are here for it, either. 

"I Am the Night" Rewatch: "House & Garden" & "The Terrible Trio"

Batman The Animated Series

Imagine my surprise when the opening credits rolled for "The Terrible Trio" and they were completely different. I had completely blocked that from my mind. During the second season of B: TAS, Robin began being featured more and more so they changed the name to "The Adventures of Batman & Robin" and started using this new intro. It has footage of episodes featuring Robin spliced in and it's generally a large step down from the original. No thanks.

"Fuck Batman" Titans recap: "Together" & "Jason Todd"

Titans

Are you ready to meet a brutal, take no prisoners, gives zero fucks Robin? A Robin who takes things to the extreme? Who isn't Dick Grayson? That's right. There's another Bat prodigy going apeshit in one of these episodes and this one wasn't a part of the Flying Graysons. That's right, it's time to meet Jason Todd. Jason replaced Dick in the comics when he went off to become Nightwing. Jason was introduced back in 1983, and fans hated him. They hated him to the point that when DC set up a number to vote on whether he should live or die, the response was overwhelmingly to murder him. Yikes. I'm sure that won't happen here though.

When the All-Stars Have to Lip Sync For Their Lives, Not Everyone Is Feeling That Fire

RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, Episode 6: "LaLaPaRuZa"

Before we get started on this week's episode, let's talk about Naomi Smalls. I've seen a lot of articles, comments, heck, even friends who say that she is being slept on. That she's not getting the credit that she deserves and that she has been robbed a few times this season. I've been thinking about this and my highly scientific conclusion is... nah. I think Naomi is a great queen. If you don't have something to offer, you don't make it on All-Stars and you certainly don't make it as far as she has. I feel like Naomi does just enough and because she's not known for being funny or having the best acting skills, when she does OK, people lose their minds. I totally understand that. It feels more impressive when someone achieves something when it's not necessarily one of their strengths. Sometimes Naomi shines because of the weaknesses of the other queens. Take the Snatch Game of Love. I stand by that her Wendy Williams wasn't that impressive. It just felt more impressive because Monét, Valentina, Gia and Latrice did so poorly. If Monét had performed as well as she did in season 10, no one would be talking about Naomi. Naomi also has this thing where she pulls out one big gag, in Snatch Game of Love, it was the faint. That gets a lot of attention and sort of influences how her performance the rest of the time is viewed.

Now, all that being said, I do think that Naomi should have been top 2 in the girl group challenge. Her verse was fire, she interacted the most with Stacy Layne and her runway look wasn't bad. The show was pushing this Valentina arc where she redeemed herself so Naomi definitely got the shaft. Otherwise, she's been strictly safe and that's what she's deserved. Who knows what will happen from here, but it's clear that Naomi needs to win a challenge.