Let’s BEGIN with the ENDING of 2016
2016 felt like a conclusion to a seemingly blissful golden era with the loss of many seemingly immortal legends: from Muhammad Ali, David Bowie, George Michael, Carrie Fisher, Freddie Mercury, Peter Vaughan & (personally) Lord John Walton the Co-founder of Muscular Dystrophy UK.
I’ve arrived in 2017 considering the usual conundrum: What is my New Year’s resolution? Honestly, I never make one, as I’d rather improve myself every day or dodge the guilt of breaking it due to weak willpower. Alternatively, I have hopes that I think are possible or the wonderful unexpected surprises.
In 2017 the creation of fascinating new universes or re-visiting established universes is widespread throughout movies, TV series or games.
The prevalence of superhero movies is as a result of society’s consciousness, wanting to bring their own brand of justice to an evil or corrupt society. Which is mirrored in real-life events especially since Brexit, President Trump, NHS structure breakdown or terrorism. My hope for 2017 is that the solo Wonder Woman movie manages to portray her as a positive role model.
Ironically in 2016 both MARVEL & DC decided to destroy their universes in the Secret Wars event & DC Rebirth. Why is this important? Well similarly to the recent losses of legendary celebrities it means passing the baton onto the next generation or providing a drastic attitude change for some characters (e.g. like Dr Doom’s reformation).
Most superheroes heroes now have a legacy character: from Iron-Man, Thor, Hulk, Hawkeye, Spiderman, Batman, Superman, Green Lantern to Flash all now have radically changed lives or new replacements. If you think about it, our society has been negatively altered in 2016 especially for people with a disability.
2017 looks like a resurgence of re-visiting established universes, the fascination with connecting with the past as an adult. I’m speaking about the Star Wars revitalization, Ridley Scott finally directing Alien: Covenant/Bladerunner 2049, War of the Planet of the Apes & Westworld. The fear I have is if the movies don’t live up to my expectations – like the saying goes you should never meet your idol.
Let’s END at the BEGINNING of 2017
Uncanny Vivek 