Amazing Spider-Man (2022) #24–26

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Issue #24: "Dead Language Part Four"

In this issue, Peter Parker is determined to rescue Mary Jane Watson from an alternate dimension where she has been trapped with Paul and two children. Despite the Fantastic Four's reluctance to assist due to the potential risks, Peter seeks help from Norman Osborn, who provides him with a device capable of traversing dimensions. Utilizing this technology, Peter breaches the dimensional barrier and reunites with Mary Jane. However, their reunion is cut short as they face the formidable entity known as the Emissary, who seeks to use Mary Jane as a sacrifice to ascend to godhood. The issue culminates in a fierce battle, with Peter and Mary Jane narrowly escaping back to their original dimension, but not without significant emotional and physical scars.

Issue #25: "Dead Language Part Five"

Back in their own world, Peter and Mary Jane grapple with the aftermath of their harrowing experience. Mary Jane reveals that during their time in the alternate dimension, she formed a deep bond with Paul and the children, leading to complex emotions about her relationship with Peter. Meanwhile, the Emissary's influence begins to seep into their reality, causing disruptions and threatening those close to Peter. As tensions rise, Peter seeks assistance from his allies, including the Avengers and Doctor Strange, to counteract the Emissary's encroaching power. The issue delves into the strain on Peter and Mary Jane's relationship, highlighting the challenges of reconciling their past with the present.

Issue #26: "Dead Language Part Six"

The climax of the arc sees the Emissary launching a full-scale assault on New York City, intent on capturing Mary Jane to complete his ascension ritual. Spider-Man, alongside his allies, engages in a desperate battle to protect the city and those he loves. In a shocking turn of events, Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel), who has been working undercover at Oscorp, sacrifices herself to save Mary Jane, taking a fatal blow meant for her. Her death sends shockwaves through the superhero community, leading to profound grief and reflection. The issue concludes with Peter mourning the loss of Kamala, questioning the cost of his double life, and contemplating the fragile nature of his personal relationships.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of sacrifice, the complexities of relationships, and the unforeseen consequences of one's actions. Peter's unwavering determination to save Mary Jane underscores the personal sacrifices he makes as Spider-Man, often at great personal cost. The introduction of Paul and the children adds layers to Peter and Mary Jane's relationship, exploring the challenges of love strained by time and traumatic experiences. Kamala Khan's tragic death serves as a poignant reminder of the high stakes inherent in the superhero world, prompting reflections on the value of life and the heavy burden of responsibility. Overall, the narrative emphasizes the delicate balance between duty and personal desires, and the profound impact of choices made in moments of crisis.

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Carry On (2025)

 "Carry-On," directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and starring Taron Egerton and Jason Bateman, aims to deliver a high-stakes thriller set against the bustling backdrop of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) during the holiday season. The narrative centers on Ethan Kopek (Egerton), a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent who is coerced by a mysterious antagonist, portrayed by Bateman, into allowing a dangerous package through security to save his pregnant girlfriend. While the premise holds promise, the film falters in execution, presenting scenarios that strain credulity and diminish the overall impact.

One of the most glaring issues is the implausible authority granted to Ethan, a TSA agent, over operations typically managed by higher-level security agencies such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The film portrays Ethan as the primary decision-maker in crisis situations, a role that realistically would involve multiple agencies and a clear chain of command. This oversight undermines the story's credibility and may leave viewers questioning the authenticity of the depicted procedures.

Additionally, the film's handling of physical injuries lacks realism. Ethan sustains multiple gunshot wounds throughout the narrative, yet he continues to perform strenuous activities with minimal signs of impairment. This portrayal not only defies basic human physiology but also diminishes the tension and stakes that such injuries should convey. The absence of realistic consequences for these injuries detracts from the film's attempt to create a suspenseful atmosphere.

Despite these shortcomings, the performances by Egerton and Bateman are noteworthy. Egerton brings a relatable vulnerability to Ethan, effectively conveying his internal struggle as he navigates the moral complexities of his predicament. Bateman, known for his comedic roles, delivers a surprisingly menacing performance as the antagonist, adding depth to an otherwise straightforward character. Their on-screen chemistry provides some of the film's more compelling moments.

In conclusion, while "Carry-On" boasts a talented cast and an intriguing premise, it is marred by unrealistic plot developments and procedural inaccuracies that hinder its effectiveness as a thriller. The film's departure from plausibility in critical areas may challenge viewers' suspension of disbelief, resulting in a viewing experience that is more frustrating than thrilling. For audiences seeking a cohesive and believable narrative, "Carry-On" may fall short of expectations.

Dog Man (2025)

"Dog Man," the latest animated feature from DreamWorks Animation, brings Dav Pilkey's beloved graphic novel series to life with vibrant energy and humor. Directed by Peter Hastings, the film introduces audiences to the titular character, a half-dog, half-human police officer who embarks on a series of adventures to thwart his nemesis, Petey the Cat. The movie successfully captures the whimsical essence of the source material, delivering a delightful experience for both children and adults.

The voice cast delivers commendable performances, with Pete Davidson lending a mischievous charm to Petey, and Isla Fisher bringing warmth to the character of Sarah, the intrepid reporter. The ensemble cast, including Lil Rel Howery and Ricky Gervais, adds depth and humor to the narrative, ensuring that each character resonates with the audience. The animation style is particularly noteworthy, blending hand-drawn aesthetics with modern CGI to create a "high-end handmade" look that honors the original illustrations.

While the film excels in many areas, some critics have noted that it occasionally leans into conventional storytelling tropes, which can make certain plot developments feel predictable. Additionally, the humor, though abundant, sometimes lacks the subversive edge that made the original books stand out. Despite these minor shortcomings, the movie maintains a brisk pace and keeps viewers engaged throughout its 89-minute runtime.

The film's conclusion offers a heartwarming resolution that emphasizes themes of friendship, responsibility, and the importance of family bonds. While some viewers might have preferred a more nuanced ending, the uplifting finale aligns well with the film's overall tone and is sure to leave audiences, especially younger viewers, satisfied.

Overall I felt like the film is a delightful addition to the animated film landscape, offering a blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments. Its faithful adaptation of Dav Pilkey's work, combined with stellar voice performances and innovative animation, makes it a must-watch for families. Given its positive reception and box office success, there's hope that this film will pave the way for future installments in the franchise.

We live In Time (2024)

 "We Live In Time," directed by John Crowley and starring Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield, is a romantic drama that delves into the complexities of love, time, and personal ambition. The film employs a nonlinear narrative to explore the relationship between Almut (Pugh), a Bavarian-fusion chef, and Tobias (Garfield), a Weetabix employee. Their journey together is marked by moments of joy and profound challenges, including Almut's battle with cancer.

The performances by Pugh and Garfield are undeniably compelling. Pugh brings depth to Almut, portraying her as a woman torn between her culinary aspirations and the realities of her illness. Garfield's portrayal of Tobias captures a man striving to support his partner while grappling with his own vulnerabilities. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their relationship both believable and engaging.

However, the film's narrative structure, while ambitious, occasionally falters. The nonlinear storytelling, intended to reflect the unpredictable nature of life and love, sometimes disrupts the emotional flow, making it challenging for viewers to fully invest in the characters' journey. Additionally, the script leans heavily on familiar tropes common in romantic dramas, which can make certain plot developments feel predictable.

The film's conclusion, which leans into the bittersweet realities of life, may leave some audiences yearning for a more uplifting resolution. While it underscores the narrative's themes of love and loss, a more optimistic ending could have provided a satisfying counterbalance to the preceding emotional weight. Nevertheless, the film succeeds in portraying the beauty and fragility of human connections.

I suppose overall, the film offers a poignant exploration of a couple's journey through life's unpredictable challenges. Despite its reliance on certain clichés and a somber ending, the stellar performances by Pugh and Garfield elevate the film, making it a worthwhile viewing experience for fans of heartfelt romantic dramas.

Guardians of the Galaxy (2023) issues #1–5

Issue #1: "The Massacre at Galilee IV"

The Guardians—Star-Lord (Peter Quill), Gamora, Drax, Nebula, and Mantis—arrive on the frontier planet of Galilee IV, which is under threat from a mysterious cosmic phenomenon known as "Grootfall." The team attempts to evacuate the inhabitants before disaster strikes. Tensions run high as the Guardians struggle with internal conflicts and the immense pressure of the looming catastrophe. Despite their efforts, they are unable to prevent the planet's destruction, leaving them grappling with feelings of failure and loss.

Issue #2: "The Shadow of Grootfall"

Haunted by their recent failure, the Guardians continue their journey through the Manifold Territories, seeking to understand the nature of Grootfall. They encounter a settlement that has been ravaged by Groot-like entities, leading to a confrontation that forces the team to confront the possibility that their former ally, Groot, may be connected to the devastation. The issue delves into the team's guilt and the complexities of facing a friend-turned-foe.

Issue #3: "Hunt of the Spartax"

The Guardians visit Spartax, Peter Quill's homeworld, in search of information about Grootfall. They discover that the phenomenon is spreading, with more planets falling victim to the mysterious force. During their investigation, they are ambushed by a group of bounty hunters hired to capture them, leading to a high-stakes battle. The team narrowly escapes, but the encounter raises questions about who is targeting them and why.

Issue #4: "The Star-Sheriff"

The Guardians take refuge on a remote frontier planet, where they meet a local lawman known as the Star-Sheriff. He provides them with crucial information about recent cosmic disturbances and hints at a deeper conspiracy involving powerful cosmic entities. As they piece together the puzzle, the Guardians must decide whether to confront these forces head-on or continue their search for answers.

Issue #5: "Last Stand at Torment Pass"

The Guardians make a stand against the advancing threat of Grootfall at Torment Pass, a strategic location in the Manifold Territories. As they prepare for battle, internal tensions come to a head, forcing the team to confront their fears and doubts. This discovery sets the stage for a deeper exploration of their friend's transformation and the cosmic forces at play.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of confronting a loved one's transformation into a threat. The Guardians grapple with their past failures and the emotional turmoil of facing Groot as an adversary. The narrative explores the fragility of trust within a team, the burden of leadership, and the moral dilemmas inherent in making life-and-death decisions on a cosmic scale. As they navigate these challenges, the Guardians are forced to reevaluate their identities and the bonds that hold them together.

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Wolverine (2020) #31–35

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Issue #31: "Weapons of X, Part One"

Beast, determined to protect Krakoa at any cost, has lost the trust of both X-Force and Wolverine. Turning to his own devices, he initiates a controversial plan, leading to the creation of multiple versions of himself. This marks the beginning of the "Weapons of X" storyline, setting the stage for a confrontation between Wolverine and Beast's new regime.

Issue #32: "Weapons of X, Part Two"

As Beast's clones begin to assert their influence, Wolverine becomes increasingly aware of the threat they pose. The tension escalates as Logan confronts the ethical implications of Beast's actions, leading to a clash that questions the very principles upon which Krakoa was founded.

Issue #33: "Weapons of X, Part Three"

The conflict intensifies as Wolverine battles the Beast clones, each embodying different facets of Hank McCoy's intellect and ambition. Amidst the chaos, Maverick finds himself entangled in the power struggle, forcing him to choose sides in a war that blurs the line between friend and foe.

Issue #34: "Weapons of X, Part Four"

Wolverine's fight against the Beast regime reaches a critical juncture. As the clones' plans unfold, Logan must confront not only their physical manifestations but also the ideological corruption that birthed them. The stakes are raised as the future of Krakoa hangs in the balance.

Issue #35: "Weapons of X, Conclusion"

In the climactic showdown, Wolverine faces Beast in a battle that will determine the fate of Krakoa. The issue delves into the consequences of unchecked ambition and the moral complexities of leadership. As the dust settles, the aftermath leaves lasting implications for both Logan and the mutant nation.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of trust, ethical boundaries, and the duality of progress versus morality. Beast's transformation from a trusted ally to a self-reliant protector raises questions about the corrupting influence of power and the dangers of unilateral decision-making. Wolverine's struggle against the Beast clones underscores the internal conflicts within the mutant community, highlighting the fragility of alliances and the importance of accountability. The narrative challenges readers to consider the balance between security and freedom, and the moral compromises leaders may face in the pursuit of a perceived greater good.

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Thor (2020) #31–35

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Issue #31: "Blood of the Fathers, Part One"

The gates to Valhalla are broken, and the souls of its inhabitants have vanished. Thor, with the assistance of Jane Foster and Odin, embarks on a quest to uncover the cause. Their investigation leads them to suspect Doctor Doom's involvement, given his recent interest in Asgard's history. As they delve deeper, Thor faces a moral dilemma about the lengths he'll go to protect his people.

Issue #32: "Blood of the Fathers, Part Two"

Thor confronts Doctor Doom, leading to a battle of wits and might. Doom reveals his plan to harness an ancient Asgardian power hidden deep within Asgard's past. To prevent Doom from succeeding, Thor and his allies must journey through time, uncovering secrets about his grandfather, Bor, and a past conflict with Thanos.

Issue #33: "Blood of the Fathers, Part Three"

Traveling through time, Thor and Doctor Doom find themselves in the midst of Bor's war against Thanos. They discover that an ultimate weapon, hidden for millennia, is at the heart of this conflict. Doom's relentless pursuit of this weapon forces Thor to make a critical decision about altering the past to save the future.

Issue #34: "Blood of the Fathers, Part Four"

As the race through time continues, Thor and Doom's clash reaches its peak. Thor uncovers the true nature of the hidden weapon and its potential consequences. With the timeline at risk, Thor must outwit Doom and ensure that history remains intact, all while grappling with revelations about his lineage.

Issue #35: "Blood of the Fathers, Conclusion"

In the series finale, Thor faces the aftermath of his time-traveling journey. He reflects on the lessons learned about his ancestors and the burdens of leadership. The issue wraps up lingering plot threads, including Thor's relationship with Odin and the future of Asgard. The series concludes with a sense of closure, setting the stage for future adventures.

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Thematic Exploration

This arc delves into themes of legacy, the ethics of altering history, and the responsibilities that come with power. Thor's journey through time offers a deeper understanding of his family's past and the eternal struggle between duty and morality. The narrative challenges Thor to balance his role as a leader with the personal sacrifices he must make, highlighting the complexities of heroism and governance.

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