"Roller Coaster" Adventure Movies Need A Comeback

 

Today is the 25th anniversary of  The Mummy starring Brendan Frasier and Rachel Weisz as the heroes, and Arnold Vosloo as the villain Imhotep. I watched the movie over the weekend in honor of its anniversary and it got me thinking. It's time there is a resurgence in Hollywood of the action adventure genre.

The type of films often described as a "roller coaster" adventure film. The Mummy and its two sequels along with Mask of Zorro and its sequel helped the genre experience a brief period of popularity in the late 90's-mid 2000's. New Line's 2002 film Lord Of The Rings: Fellowship Of The Ring and its sequels aided the adventure films.

Then Disney's Pirates Of The Carribean film released in 2003 and helped continue that trend. Along with National Treasure starring Nicolas Cage, another Disney property that was released in 2004.

Tin the late 2000's and early 2010's. That genre lost popularity to films based on YA literature like Twilight, Hunger Games, Divergent and Maze Runner. Of course we can't forget the Harry Potter film series. That wasn't the only thing that clobbered action adventure films during that time. Superhero movies and the juggernaut that was the marvel cinematic universe sucked up any genre in its path.

In 2017 a legacy to 1995's Jumanji film was released. Which that film Welcome To The Jungle and it's sequel 2019's The Next Level bought some popularity to the genre, and while both films were highly successful they couldn't sustain the genre on its own. Last year's film Dunegons & Dragons: Honor Amongst Thieves was mildly successful in trying to revive those type of films.

With the MCU trying to stabilize itself after several blunders. Other comic book films waiting in the wings. Long standing franchises like the Fast & Furious series heading into the sunset. Indiana Jones not connecting with a new generation. Franchises like Masters of the Universe and Power Rangers having a hard time getting off the ground. While properties like G.I. Joe and to an extent Transformers not able to refresh themselves.

It's time someone steps in and brings back those swashbuckling, gunfights left and right, falls and screams and high stakes. With just enough plot and dialogue to keep the story until the next action piece. We are waiting to experience the whiplash of roller coaster adventure films.

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Roc Was A One Of A Kind Sitcom

 

Thanks to a page on IG called Baltimore History Channel, the page made a post of a few scenes from the early 90's sitcom Roc which sent me down a Roc rabbit hole. The sitcom debuted in 1991 on Fox during a time Black sitcoms were used to help the network gain footing against the big 3 networks. Looking back at clips and episodes it's clear Roc was a special sitcom and there has been nothing like it since.

The sitcom starred Baltimore native Charles Dutton as Roc Emerson, a Baltimore sanitation worker who lived in a traditional Baltimore rowhome with his family. His wife Eleanor (Ella Joyce) who was a nurse, his womanizing musician brother Joey (Rocky Carroll), and his retired widowed father Pops (Carl Gordon). Later on in the series Roc and family adopted a pre-teen girl named Sheila (Alexis Fields) and later the couple had a baby of their own. 

The series was catergorized as a sitcom, but truthfully it was dramedy that realized early it had a voice and a responsibility to bring awareness to various issues affecting the Black community. Subjects covered throughout the sitcoms run included sexual assault, HIV, hospital billing teen violence, gangs, and drug dealers contributing to the decline of the Black community. A drug dealer named Andre played by Clifton Powell was the focal point of several episodes, which is another reason Roc was Special. There were many story arcs in the series, covering multiple episodes. 

Bullying and teen violence was another hot topic the series covered. Which is my favorite episode of the series, Terrance Got His Gun guest starring Brandon Adams. Speaking of guest stars, along with Brandon Adams and Clifton Powell, Roc pulled in several prominent Black entertainers during the show's run. Names like Loretta Devine, Garrett Morris, Debbi Morgan, Richard Roundtree Jamie Foxx, Heavy D, Eddie Griffin, Kadeem Hardison, Tone Loc, En Vogue (who also did the intro for season 3). Samuel L. Jackson, Tisha Campbell, Kim Fields, Jennifer Lewis,Salli Richardson, Sinbad, James Avery by now you get the point.

Another component that made Roc stand out and special was that for season 2, thee entire season all 25 episodes were aired Live on Fox. The core cast all had backgrounds in theater and were up for the challenge and succeeded. Going back and watching the episodes you may notice a flub here and there but nothing that took you out of the series. 

Roc was a special series and it's a shame it only lasted 3 seasons, but in those short 3 seasons it provided audiences with something to think about. A masterpiece of television, it is still underrated 30 plus years later for not being a typical sitcom. However, it truly was a one of a kind special sitcom that was needed. 

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All-Star SuperHero Team For Earth Month

 

I randomly thought of this topic at the 11th hour on Earth day, and while it spun around in my head to write it or not. I decided hell although I missed it for Earth day, April still is Earth Month and today is National Super Hero Day, as such I charged ahead with writing it. Keeping it short and simple here are 5 superheroes, neighborhood heroes, whatever you want to call them. Whose powers and mission statements. come from or to protect Mother Earth, and if needed this would be the team I'd call.

5. Toxie

Every team needs some sort of comic relief and Toxie would be that guy. Toxie is the main character of the Toxic Avenger film series, which were some low budget B movie trilogy during the 80's with a belated sequel in 2000. While the film series was rated R, in the early 90's a cartoon debuted changing the name to Toxic Crusader and taking a more environmentally kid-friendly approach.

Toxie was a meek young man named Melvin who accidentally came in contact with a toxin and became a super human. He then set out to fight off industrial polluters in his fictional hometown.

4. Swamp Thing

Swamp Thing is a DC Comics character depending on who you ask he is either a B level comic book character or C level. Swamp Thing is a a half human/half plant matter creature. He was a brilliant scientist named Alec Holland, and depending on which origin story is crafted one or another a bad accident forced him to merge with the swamps of Louisiana. He has superhuman strength, can manipulate any forms of plant. He also has regenerative ability, limiting the amount of damage inflicted upon him. He has made it his duty to protect the swamp land in which he lives, and the environment in general.

Swamp Thing has been portrayed in two live-action films, and two live-action television series. As well as a cartoon, and guest appearances on several other DC animated films and TV shows. Swamp Thing is the intelligent yet brooding and moody member of the team. 

3. Aquaman

Aquaman is the King of the seven seas. Aquaman's name beneath the seas is Orin and above ground it's Arthur Curry or A.C. He is a half-human, half-Atlantean, the son of the Queen of Atlantis and a human lighthouse keeper. He can communicate and call out for help all forms of marine life, with the ability to establish bonds with them. He has superhuman strength as a result of his Atlantean heritage and can breath underwater indefinitely. He is seen as the protector of the sea and everything that encompasses the sea.

Aquaman would be the overly confident borderline cocky member of the team. With his superior strength and other powers making him very sure of himself. Aquaman is one of DC Comics most popular comic characters, he has appeared in four live action films portrayed by Jason Mamoa, a live action incarnation of the series Smallville, and numerous cartoons.

2. Storm

A legendary member of the X-men team. Storm is a mutant capable of controlling the elements with her powers. She was born Ororo Munroe to a Kenyan princess mother and an American father who was a photographer. Her powers began to demonstrate during her Manipulating the weather is definitely a good skill to have if your trying to protect the one thing (mother nature) that grants you those specific powers. Her connection to earth is so strong, deep emotional states can cause severe uncontrollable weather events. She can also use her powers to fly and is a skilled hand to hand combat fighter. 

 Storm is a headstrong and fearless woman, who shows a great of compassion for others and is very loyal to her teammates. She has been portrayed by both Halle Berry and Alexandra Shipp in X-men live action films, and numerous X-men featured cartoons.

1. Captain Planet

Without a doubt the most well known eco-hero in pop culture. During the mid-90's Captain Planet was a very popular cartoon that aired on TBS, co-created by Barbara Pyle and Ted Turner. Captain Planet is an humanoid figure created through the power of five rings held by individuals dubbed The Planeteers. When needed the powers of wind, fire, water, earth, and heart combine and Captain Planet is called to action. He has the ability to fly, become invisible, and use the powers of the respective rings to manipulate the elements. 

Captain Planet has a dry sense of humor, but is a very noble individual. He cares tremendously about saving the environment, and will do what is needed to save the planet. Captain Planet has never been in a live action film, but he was featured in books, toys, and video games back in the 90's.

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My Top 5 MCU Movies

 5 years ago today, box office records were shattered, tears flowed, and fans everywhere witnessed one of the greatest cinema storytelling eras come to a end. With the release of Avengers Endgame, the culmination of a 11 year saga. Since that film's release the MCU has experienced a serious flow of ups and downs while trying to maintain it's grip on pop culture and introducing a new generation of characters.

Since the film series was such a juggernaut of the 2010's I figured I'd share my personal list of the top 5 MCU movies..so far. 

5. Iron Man

There have been way better movies the MCU has released since Iron Man was released in 2008. This film deserves a spot on any MCU film simply for providing the spark that started it all. While there may have been plans to kickstart a cinematic universe, if Robert Downey Jr's charismatic and confident yet conflicted turn as Tony Stark was not as enticing as it was, the MCU may have never been born.

The film's plot is serviceable and with it's minimal budget and effects some of the film has not aged well, but it's served it's purpose as Iron Man's and The Avengers origin story. Iron Man was a significant gamble that worked and birthed something we'd never imagine.

4. Guardians Of The Galaxy

At the time of the film's release it was so far different than anything Marvel had put out at the time. Featuring at the time a C list Marvel property full of C list characters, that many people outside of devoted fans had never heard of. James Gunn using the low expectations to his advantage, crafted a part space opera, part fish out of water 80's nostalgia comedic zinger of a film.

Peter Quill's introduction dancing to Red Bone Come and Get Your Love should be in any discussion regarding best character debuts. That debut scene also helped show we were in for a different kind of marvel film at the time. The film also played a bit part in continuing the arc of Thanos and the infinity stones. The film proved that light hearted comedy in comic films can work, and spawned two sequels, a Disney Plus special, rides at Disney Park's and more.

3. Winter Soldier 

Winter Soldier turned 10 Years old this year and to me is one of the better MCU films in the entire catalog and has held up very well. It was the MCU movie to me that had that first shit just got real moment, when it was revealed Hydra had infiltrated Shield for all these years. When First Avenger released in 2011, I personally overhyped the film so much I was severely disappointed when it didn't meet my expectations.

Winter Soldier exceeded my expectations, integrating a political conspiracy thriller into a comic book film. While giving Steve Rogers more of a purpose trying to find out what happened to his friend Bucky, was top tier story telling. For the action piece I think we all can admit the elevator scene is one the best fight scenes in cinema history. 

2. Black Panther 

When Black Panther was released February 16, 2018 it was a cultural event. Sold out shows, audience members came in droves with their dashikis on and represented leading the box office gate to a total of $1.3 billion. Fan's went to show love for the culture, but the story of the film is what engaged them. Showing a African Utopia society and the technological advancements  the fictional country Wakanda had was a sight to see. Chadwick Boseman was a screen general as Wakanda's king T'Challa and his hero Black Panther. T'Challa learned quickly in the film, that sometimes you pay for the sins of your parents and that the traditional way of doing things is not always the best. 

But it was Michael B. Jordan as one of Marvel's top 3 villains alongside Thanos and Loki who stole the show as Killmonger. Killmonger was full of rage and misplaced anger but wanted to use Wakanda's resources to help liberate Black people. T'Challa and Killmonger learn from one alone in their respective ways, which made the film even more powerful. It was he last film in the MCU released before the last two Avengers film to cap off the Infinity Saga, which gives it another cool spot in history.

1. Avengers Infinity War/Endgame

I count these two films released a year apart as one, mainly due to the fact it tells an complete story across the two and is an culmination of a saga. In fact originally the two films were called Infinity War part 1 and part II which illustrate how attached at the hip they are. Honestly Infinity War maybe the better film pacing and stakes wise, but Endgame is the more emotional film. Infinity War showed the chaos and brutality that Thanos could do and had that gut punch of seeing your favorite heroes turn into dust after that snap knowing we had to wait a full year to see how everything played out.

Endgame was a fan service film full of callbacks to previous films, easter eggs, that amazing final battle scene where Cap finally uttered the famous Avengers calling. I can watch that scene over and over by the way, and of course that emotional death. It truly was the apex of the MCU thus far and one of the coolest things to witness. This is why it is the best of the 33 films released in the MCU so far.

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A Zordon Origin Film? I'd Watch It

 

We live in a age where intellectual property (IP) is king, companies love mining from the archives looking to revive a property or use characters to spin off something new. Especially in this streaming environment, where streaming services constantly have to churn exclusive quality programs to justify people continuing to pay for them.

I was watching the 2017 Power Rangers movie recently, which deserves more love by the way. It got me thinking, why hasn't an Zordon movie or series been created yet?

As the thousands of years old mentor of the Power Rangers, Zordon has a lot of story to tell before he was banished to that chamber. Particularly during his battles against Rita Repulsa on his home planet of Eltar. The mythology of the series has alluded multiple times he was a legendary wizard, warrior and commander. 

It was briefly mentioned in the original series, it was mentioned in the 1995 Power Rangers film, and the 2017 film changed things to Zordon being a ranger himself. In 2016 Boom Studios released a comic book series that gave Zordon an extensive backstory.

Incorporate the best of his backstory from the various properties. Include his allies starting with Alpha 1 down to Alpha 5,  Dulcea (from '95 movie), and even King Lexian (Masked Rider series). Notable villains such as Goldar, Rito Revolto and Lord Zedd along with Rita Repulsa have to be included too. And it could make for an very entertaining story. 

I believe Paramount has the rights to the Power Rangers franchise, they honestly could make it an animated film like the upcoming Transformers One movie. Or make it a animated series and release it on Paramount Plus to entice subscribers and content is king. If they don't see the value, I'm positive Netflix would and scoop it right up.

If someone ever makes this an reality I'd watch it.

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G.I. Joe Next Movie Should Be A Cartoon

 

During Cinemacon yesterday, Paramount announced that a crossover film between Transformers and G.I. Joe is in development. If you've seen the latest Transformers movie Rise Of The Beast you remember the potential for this was teased.

I enjoyed G.I. Joe The Rise Of Cobra and appreciate it for what it is, essentially a live action movie. My biggest gripe with the film was Cobra's origin story and esthetic changes. Retaliation was a more grounded in reality, had some good action scenes, and set some things right from the first film (Cobra's look), but for whatever reason the majority of audience's didn't enjoy it.

After the failure of both G.I. Joe films and the 2021 Snake Eyes film, my guess is this is Paramount's attempt to salvage the G.I. Joe film franchise. I personally think the live action route is not the way to go for the franchise to move it forward. To get the franchise popular again an animated movie needs to happen.

An animated film would allow the G.I. Joe universe to be as over the top as possible and take more liberties to bring the mythology up to date.  And maybe incorporate some of the wackier aspects of the lore such as Serpentor and his clones. Incorporate some good humor and a core group of Joe's and it could work.

An animated film worked for the Ninja Turtles franchise last summer, it was Fresh and entertaining. And I'm waiting for a part 2. Paramount has an animated Transformers movie releasing in theaters later this year called Transformers One and starring Chris Hemsworth. Even though the live action film keeps falling through, Masters of the Universe has experienced some rejuvenation from the Netflix cartoon series.

If the masterminds at Paramount or potentially the future masterminds if the company is indeed bought, are truly trying to gain more ground and use IP's to their full advantage. They will make a G.I. Joe animated film.

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5 Potential Video Games To Turn Into A TV Series

 The Twisted Metal series debuted on Peacock last year to not raving but satisfying reviews. Season 2 of the show is underway. Halo season 2 premeiered on Paramount Plus in February to good reviews. A series based on Fallout airs on Prime this Friday April 12th. Paramount Plus is also releasing a Miniseries based on Knuckles from Sonic The Hedgehog April 26th. 

 Along with the box office success of Super Mario Bros., you know companies will be looking for the next video game property to bring to the screen.

So I'm going to beat them to the punch with 5 video games that could make good TV shows. Now my goal here was to find some obscure properties that have potential, and not fan favorites everyone would want to see turned into a movie or TV series. With the exception of one property, I think I succeeded so let's go.

Road Rash

Road Rash was a simple video game that debuted on Sega Genesis in 1991. It followed illegal motorcycle racers trying to win and knock each other off their bikes in the process. Pretty straight forward right?

The franchise created follow up games up until 2000's Road Rash: Jailbreak. Now when you think about it there have been motorcycle themed films, but I havent seen too many series other than Sons Of Anarchy and its spin-offs. 

A series based on the game would be perfect to fill that void. Have some stakes involved since as riding across country performing heist or transporting something. While doing some nasty motorcycle tricks in the process. 

There's potential for Fast & Furious on motorcycles popularity.

Comix Zone

Comix Zone was one of my favorite video games on Sega when I was a kid. The game follows comic book artist Sketch Turner who one night is working on his comic, when suddenly his work is struck by lightning. The final boss of his comic Mortus appears in reality. Not yet powerful in the real world, he zaps Sketch into the comic book. With the intention of gaining more power as Sketch is taken care of.

Sketch must work his way through the comic, while Mortus keeps drawing new adversies and obstacles for Sketch to overcome. The game is most popular for every scene throughout the game being a comic book panel. 

If translated to live action that would have to be switched around a little to not be overbearing and silly. However, if done right it could be a fun ride. A film adaption was announced in 2022 but there has been no movement since. 

Ready 2 Rumble boxing 

Ready 2 Rumble Boxing was a game franchise started in 1999, with the initial video game debuting on Dreamcast, Nintendo 64, Playstation, and Gameboy. The game was known for its game play including the RUMBLE meter, which as a player gained momentum the individual letters would fill up until it was time to knock someone out.

Alongside its gameplay was the over the top characters like female boxers Selene Strike and Lulu Valentine. And male boxers Afro Thunder, Tank Thraser, and Boris The Bear. Outside of the boxers the story is pretty straight forward.

Which presents an good opportunity to make it into a series. There is no lore creators would have to be tied to. Just have the characters and the rumble graphics during bouts. Keep the story simplistic and cheesy and there could be a low cost potential hit.

The original game spawned two sequels Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2 and Ready 2 Rumble: Revolution. If a series was created and successful, could open the door to reviving the games for a new generation.

Streets of rage

Streets Of Rage is a true video game classic, a simple beat em game with enough backstory to keep things moving along. There were 3 games released during the 90's with a fourth in 2020 which bought the franchise back in the collective hearts of many 90's kids. 

A movie was announced back in 2022 by the team behind the John Wick movies. However ,there hasn't been any updates since the initial announcement. This franchise though is ripe for a TV adaptation.

It follows 3 ex-cops who take matters into their own hands against a crime syndicate who have overran the city. The plot simply needs a story on why the cops left the force, a generic city rife with crime, and some serious ass kicking fight scenes. There you have it a recipe for success for a quality video game adaption.

Metal Gear Solid

I am 1000% shocked this hasn't happened yet. There has been talk for years of a movie based on the game, but nothing has come to fruition. I feel a movie would not do this franchise justice at all, as it has too much lore and history to be contained in a 2 hour film.

This franchise needs a TV series to span over multiple seasons. In the vain of Reacher and Jack Ryan respective series. With some 24 sprinkled in. It could really be the first "smart" video game adaption covering topics like espionage, terrorism, geopolitics along with the military industrial complex. And everything in between writers could think of.

The video games pretty much followed that path with the main character Solid Snake. Constantly doing battle against nefarious forces chasing whatever red herring "metal gear" is. The appetite is there for a series of this nature, hopefully someone develops it.

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5 MGM Films Amazon Should Remake

 

Amazon/MGM Studios just released a remake of the 1980's classic film that starred Patrick Swayze Roadhouse. The updated version stars Jake Gyllenhaal and UFC star Connor McGregor. I plan to watch the film this weekend, but it has already got me wondering about remakes.

Amazon bought MGM Studios for $8 billion back in 2021, with the deal completing in 2022. That's alot of coins that still hasn't been fully utilized yet. I previously wrote about how I would like to see The American Ninja series rebooted. Amazon is sitting on alot of intellectual properties right now, so here are five films from the MGM library that could be good material for a reboot.

5. MadHouse

MadHouse released in 1990 stars Kristie Alley and John Larroquette as Mark and Jessie, a yuppie couple who live a perfect life that works for them. That is until their lives are turned upside down when relatives come to visit at different intervals, and one by one for whatever reason they end up having extended stays. 

Until the couple loses their shit and can't take it any longer. If you ask the average person if they have heard of this movie, I guarantee the overwhelming answer will be no. That's what makes it perfect for a reboot, most people wouldn't have anything to compare it to. And getting rid of unwanted house guests is a story that stands the test of time.

4. Delirious 

This 1991 film starred John Candy as a soap opera writer who takes a bump on the head. He wakes up in the world of his soap opera where everyone assumes he is a new main character he created. He has to stop a nefarious plot while keeping his cover and realizing he can still write his story as he goes along.

I love a good meta movie that works like Pleasantville The movie is often overlooked among Candy's films. I'll admit it's not one of his best, while the humor in the movie is kind of dry, and the villains are typical scheming rich men. The plot of a writer waking up in a world he created is always ripe for good material and opportunity.

3. Cutthroat Island

One of the biggest box office bombs in movie history, Cutthroat Island is infamous for the film's budget bankrupting it's production company. The film was released in 1995 and starred Geena Davis and Matthew Modine as swashbuckling pirates.

Ok, so the scripts dialogue is very stiff and campy (not sure if that was by design), the plot gets wonky. However the movie fits the bill of a roller coaster ride, and if you turn your brain off you may like it. Pirate movies aren't the top of the heap right now but the Pirates Of The Caribbean franchise proved there is a market for it, if done right. With such a bad stench on it, a remake could be given a fair chance.

2. The Beastmaster

A film losely based on a 1959 novel and made  in the mold of Conan The Barbarian. This 1982 film starred Marc Singer as Dar a warrior during an ancient time who is very skillful with a sword, and can communicate with animals. 

The film spawned two sequels Beastmaster: Through The Portal Of Time which was a limit theater release and Beastmaster III: Eye of Braxus (made for TV movie) and a syndicated television series. The potential is there to revive this property and maybe bring sorcery themed properties back into pop culture.

1.Hackers

Out of all the film's mentioned Hackers is the one most ripe for the picking. Especially with the digital world we live in now and technical geniuses with the potential to change the world getting younger and younger. Released in 1995, the film is best known for being Angelina Jolie's breakout film.

It involves a group of teen hackers who get themselves caught up in something way bigger than they anticipated. We now live in a world of ethical hackers, cyber security analysts, and breaches left and right. A updated film touching on digital concerns and social media playing a part in our everyday lives. Could really spark a new cult favorite or potential franchise.

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Extreme Ghostbusters: A Hidden Gem

 

While I anticipate seeing the new Ghostbusters movie Frozen Empire this weekend, I went down a Ghostbusters content rabbit hole. Which led me to revisit the 90's cartoon Extreme Ghostbusters, which honestly is a underrated and worthy addition to the Ghostbusters mythos.

Released in the fall of 1997, the cartoon followed original Ghostbuster Egon Spengler who recruits a new generation to defend the city against new paranormal threats. The new recruits were a very diverse crew, far different than the original crew. There was a female member Kylie, a Hispanic member Eduardo, a Black member Roland, and a paraplegic member Garrett (which I believe was the first depiction of a paraplegic in a cartoon). With Janine and Slimer by their side they set out to make their own legacy while saving the city.

Being the late 90's the cartoon took a bit more of a edge. The classic theme song had a rock inspired version. The series creators also worked on the Men In Black  and Godzilla cartoons. The styling of Extreme Ghostbusters matched those cartoons and  the tone was slightly darker with the creatures looking a bit more terrifying. And there seemed to be real life stakes in play throughout the series.

But what really makes the cartoon a hidden gem was the character development. All four members of the team were fleshed out and had their own reasons for joining the team. They were relatable and provided reasons for the audience to care about them.

The cartoon also gave fans a very satisfying moment years before Ghostbusters Afterlife did. The original Ghostbusters teamed up with the new Ghostbusters to take down the villain in the series Finale. A true Holy Shit moment back when that wasn't common in media.

The cartoon deserves another look as it truly may have just been ahead of its time. It's not available to stream anywhere, but YouTube will satisfy your appetite. If you don't remember the gem or never seen it, do yourself a favor and check it out.

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UPN On Monday Nights Was Must Watch TV

 

Once upon a time there was a broadcast network known as United Paramount Network (UPN), it was a mini network attempting along with The WB network attempting to compete with ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox. To do that they aimed to attract demographics that were undeserved. While the WB became known as the teen network with shows like Dawson's Creek, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and One Tree Hill. While UPN became the home of Star Trek Series, WWF Smackdown, and a string of successful Black sitcoms.

UPN use to spilt sitcoms across two nights in four hour blocks. Starting in 1999 they used Monday nights to pair the first successful sitcom on the network Moesha with its spin-off sitcom The Parkers, that is when Monday nights really took off. The four hour block did not have a catchy name like NBC's Must See TV or ABC's TGIF, but everyone in the Black community knew what channel to tune into. I remember I use to record UPN sitcoms on VHS incase I missed something important flipping back and forth between those shows and wrestling.

Alongside Moesha and The Parkers, there were highly regarded still to this day sitcoms like the now legendary Girlfriends. Exploring friendships and relationships for Black woman in the 21st century. Half and Half which I think is still very underrated about two half-sisters trying to build a relationship. One on One about a father and daughter adjusting to life together. All Of Us about a blended family and navigating that space. UPN even saved The Hughleys when it was cancelled by ABC, even though personally you can miss me with that show.

Malcolm & Eddie spent some time on Monday nights. Rapper Eve had her own sitcom Eve, even though her character's name was Shelley. One on One produced a spin-off Cutz that made it on Monday nights. And oft forgotten Jaleel White led sitcom Grown-ups. 

While many of these sitcoms are still playing on cable or available to stream. It's often forgotten how important these shows were during the late 90's and early 2000's, when the major networks turned a blind eye to Black led sitcoms. These shows were unapologetically Black and for the culture, and it's a shame that 2 hour block on Monday nights is not given it's flowers more. 

It was truly Must See TV for Black families.

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Centurions reboot

 

I recently watched He: Man Revolutions on Netflix a nice quick 5 episode cartoon to binge. Once that was over I went down the rabbit hole of cartoons of the 80's and 90's that Hollywood could pick through for a new generation. Which led me to a cartoon I remember watching as a kid and playing with my older cousin's toys of, but I wasn't particularly a huge enamored with. That cartoon is Centurions released in 1986 that fit the bill of cartoons of that time, a toy line and comic book line built in to raise the cartoons profile. As customary during that time, the intro gave you the whole story in 30 seconds.

The cartoon follows three individuals Max Ray, Ace McCloud, and Jake Rockwell, who it's never made explicitly clear but are military of government employees. They all have specialty skills in sea, air, and land and use specialized exo-suits that allow them to combine weapons within their suits. The trick though is they have to yell "Power Xtreme" for the suits to activate (not sure that would work in today's world).

Along they're side is Crystal Kane who is the overseer of their operation from the group's headquarters a  space station called The Sky Vault. The big bad of the cartoon is Doc Terror a cybernetic scientist much like other evil villains hell bent on domination.

Themes of the cartoon were based in science and environmental issues. Which are still very relevant topics today, with a little fine tuning to bring the plot up to date.  I know I would watch it as I'm not tied to it nostalgically and would give it a fair shake. The rights are owned by Warner Bros. so they either need to get on the ball and develop it in house or license it. 

There's only so many times you can rehash properties like Masters Of The Universe and G.I. Joe without adding anything new to the franchise. This is perfect candidate to reboot for the 21st century. It doesn't have an expansive mythology tied to it that needs to be worked in, and fan backlash wouldn't necessarily be a concern for needed changes, since it wasn't a super popular cartoon. Who knows it may become very popular with today's youth and become a gold mine.

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We Need A Baltimore Day

 

There's been a lot of talk about the Baltimore Renaissance. Great things happening in the city, businesses giving the city opportunity. The O's are coming back to prosperity and hopefully make a deep run in the playoffs this year, the Raven's although not making the Super Bowl produced a lot of purple fever. The planned Inner Harbor revitalization which I'm personally 50/50 on but that's neither here nor there.

The CIAA tournament just finished up in town and bought a multitude of College basketball fans and events here to experience the city and what it has to offer. CFG Bank Arena is bringing big name acts back to the city, the frenzy the day Usher announced his tour was crazy. There's still A LOT of  work that need's to be done on public safety but there is progress and it will take time to change mindsets, behaviors and systemic conditions that lead to that.

All of these things got me thinking. We need a day to celebrate Baltimore, it's culture and what it means to be a Baltimorean. It would be great if the day occurred in the summer months so some type of outdoor event could be held. If not though, we still need something to celebrate the Inner Harbor, our sports teams, crabs, natty boh's, snowballs and of course Baltimore club music. 

It's a way to help instill civic pride in natives and make them love Baltimore good and bad for what it is.  I previously wrote a blog about having a Baltimore sign, much like other cities do against the backdrop of the Inner Harbor. Creating the perfect opportunity for a photo op to show Baltimore in it's beautiful glory. Let's hope those in City Hall think of the great things a day to honor Baltimore could do for the city, and make it official. 

Imagine folks walking around saying "Happy Baltimore day tew you".

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Iconic Black Video Game Characters

 

It's February, while Black History is 365 days a year. February is the month where it's highlighted and honored a bit more. I partake in the celebrations with my blogs trying to put my own little spin on things, this year I decided to focus on Black characters in video games.

Much like other genres, Black main characters in video games are still a work in progress. There are some instrumental Black characters in the medium. However, that is still few and far between. I've compiled five Black main characters from video games, who many may consider legendary video game characters. This list isn't a ranking per say, just a list.

Alyx Vance

                                

Alyx Vance debuted in 2004's Half-Life 2 as a Non-Playable Character (NPC). She appears in subsequent games in the franchise such as Half-Life Episode One and Episode Two. She was the main character in the virtual reality game, Half-Life: Alyx. The funny thing is other than the latter game she is a supporting character in the series helping main character Gordon Freeman in his missions, but is well-revered. 

Alyx is a very tech savvy prominent figure in the fight against The Combine, the alien empire ruling over humans. Computer skills aren't her only traits as she can fight and use weapons with the best of them. She is also an outgoing wise-cracking personality, which in the world of video games is not common for a Black female character. Which makes her so special in the medium. 

Jax

The Character of Jax Briggs debuted in 1993's Mortal Kombat II searching for his partner Sonya Blade. Jax is a U.S. Special Forces soldier, identified by his bionic arms which give him super strength that maybe only matched by the likes of a Superman or Thor. Besides his brute strength granted to him by his arms he also fights in the styles of Judo and Muy Thai. He has appeared in eleven Mortal Kombat game series of course with redesigns throughout the years. He has been a fan favorite over the years when it comes to selecting a fighter in the games.

Outside of the game realm, he has been portrayed in all three live action Mortal Kombat films. Mortal Kombat (1995), Mortal Kombat Annihilation (1997) played by Lynn Red Williams. Michael Jai White played him in the short-film Mortal Kombat: Rebirth (2010) and the follow up series Mortal Kombat: Legacy (2011). He most recently was played by Mechad Brooks in 2021's Mortal Kombat film.

CJ 

Carl Johnson also known as CJ, just a kid from the mean streets of Los Santos and a member of the Grove Street gang. Coming back home to Los Santos from Liberty City, after the death of his mother. CJ finds a brand new world from the one he left. CJ partook in criminal elements, but he was a good guy who at times displayed a conscience and confliction about his deeds. But make no mistake he wasn't a pushover. 

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas was a game changer on PS2 for it's vast open world expansion across the great state of San Andreas, and the ability to customize CJ's wardrobe and look throughout the game. I distinctly remember dressing CJ in all black with a gold chain and a bucket hat cruising around in his black and gold low rider. 

As is customary in the GTA world CJ quickly was sprung from his neighborhood all across the glitz of Las Venturas and the quirks of San Fiero. CJ came across all facets of the criminal underworld and defeated them all to make a good life for himself outside of Los Santos and the criminal element. 

Lincoln Clay 

Lincoln Clay is the protagonist in Mafia III (which by the way I think it's time for another game in the Mafia series). Lincoln is a Vietnam War vet who returns to his home of New Bordeaux (based on New Orleans). Much like depictions of heroes in movies, Lincoln just trying to find steady work get's caught up in the underworld. Soon he sets out to avenge some close friends and family lost to the mob, while building his own empire and dealing with racism.

Props to the creators of the game, because while Lincoln is a very calm but strong minded man. Who uses strategy and rationalizes things, he is also a conflicted man. Violent and suffering from ptsd which plays a part in his characterization while also shedding light on the struggles many military vets go through. Lincoln was not afraid to spring into action and bust some heads, while still having visions and flashbacks of the world he left behind overseas. Which should be examined more, but this isn't the blog for that.

Adam Hunter

The first Black character I can recall that was depicted in a video game. Adam Hunter was a former cop in the world of Streets Of Rage which was released in 1991, and one of the primary characters.  The older brother of Eddie "Skate" Hunter, Adam was all muscle in the world of the game.

Since this was an early 90's property, characterization wasn't really a huge deal back then. Much isn't known about Adam except his history as a cop, relation to Skate, and he could gorilla press slam an opponent like the best of them. In Streets Of Rage 4 he's been given a bit more character, he's honorable and he too is calm and collected but has no time for games.

Adam Hunter is one dude you would not want to mess with, if he was a real character. 

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