Legendary And Warner Confirm Shared King Kong & Godzilla Universe

Tom Hiddleston and the Cadbury gorilla, what more could women want?

Two reboots, check. A shared universe, check. Commence Monster-Mash franchise, check-check-check. Rumours have been circulating for a while now that the planned Legendary produced Kong: Skull Island was the beginning of a planned shared universe involving Legendary’s critically acclaimed reboot of Godzilla. Those rumours were proven right today with the announcement of a Marvel-like Universe with the two Goliath’s and as-of-yet unannounced monster buddies.

In a press release for both companies, they outlined their vision going forward: “All-powerful monsters become towering heroes for a new generation, revealing a mythology that brings together Godzilla and Legendary’s King Kong in an ecosystem of other giant super-species, both classic and new. Monarch, the human organisation that uncovered Godzilla in the 2014 film, will expand their mission across multiple releases.”

This announcement retroactively makes Godzilla an origin story for the organisation Monarch who seem pivotal in the franchise going forward. Of course you will all remember that Bryan Cranston played what everyone assumed was a big role in the Godzilla reboot after coming off his starring role as Walter White in the hugely popular Breaking Bad only to **Spoilers** die earlier on in the film. I can only assume that the producers are kicking themselves given that Cranston’s Joe Brody would have served as a perfect protagonist for the franchise going forward. I hope my bitterness comes across. Stupid Legendary.

With Godzilla (2014) serving as the starting point for the franchise, the upcoming Kong: Skull Island will serve as the second film and reboot for the giant ape. Followed by Godzilla 2 (2018) and Godzilla vs. King Kong serving as the Monster-Assemble movie in 2020. Production on Kong: Skull Island begins next week (October 19th) with a cast including Tom Hiddleston, Sam Jackson, Brie Larson, John Goodman, Tian Jing, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, John Ortiz, Shea Whigham and Toby Kebbell.

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 Let’s hope they bring back these special effects, just kidding 😉

With this announcement cementing the franchise going forward, eagle eyed viewers will be watching Kong carefully to see if groundwork is laid for the franchises future. If any actor is a contender for taking the monster franchise forward on his back, Tom Hiddleston seems likely given that his run with Marvel is often served on an appearance demand basis. Could the British actor have his eyes set for another franchise in the future? We will have to see when Kong: Skull Island is released in 2018.

The New Power Rangers Movie: 5 Things That Could Be Awesome

Who’s your fave Power Ranger?

With the news out of Lionsgate that their Power Rangers Movie would carry on the long history that is more than 20 years of Power Ranger awesome-ness. It got me thinking about possible advantageous storylines and plot points that would benefit from fitting into the Power Rangers continuity rather than planting a flag pole with the ever easy route of Reboot-mania.

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1. Is that a Power Ranger or are you just pleased to see me?

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 Zordon is happy to see you

Number one on the Hitlist is the obvious cameo opportunities that arise from continuing the Rangers saga. With reports indicating that the current crop of young Rangers known as The Dino Charge Rangers (an on-the-nose yet respectful homage to the original Mighty Morphin era) will be popping up in a passing-of-the-mantle opening scene. Wouldn’t it be great if the cameo’s didn’t stop there?

As any fan of the series know Saban are unafraid to crossover Rangers from one iteration to other, with a common practice of having one or two crossover episode per-season. Or sometimes casting a fan favourite in a whole season such as Tommy Oliver’s return in 2004’s Dino Thunder as mentor Doctor ‘O and the new black ranger, I know, weird right?

So what stops Lionsgate from digging deep into the plethora of past Rangers and use as integral parts of the story or just a fun nod to the millions of fans out there who’d get a kick outta seeing their favourite Ranger return. I mean, we all got one right?

2. The ‘Franks’ effect

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 Would you want to see the ‘iconic’ Tommy Oliver in the movie?

Since his turn as everyones first and favourite Green Ranger Tommy Oliver. Jason David Franks has been unable to shake-off that Green Helmet which has overshadowed much of his career away from the Rangers screen. Whats cool about Franks however is that he is still totally stoked to be ‘Your’ Green Ranger. A consummate professional still to this day, he is forever a fixture at numerous comic-cons and Power Ranger centric events. Franks service to the Power Rangers franchise should be recognised with a significant role in the new film.

Not only would his stature and history with the series bring gravitas to the film but it will attract those 90’s kids that would get a serious nostalgia trip from seeing Franks’ Tommy Oliver on the big screen again.

After all, no one can deliver the often corny lines that come part and parcel with the Power Rangers with a po-faced and serious attitude to back it up than Franks.

3. Whats in a Name?

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 Are the names important?

I’m swinging wild with this one but hear me out. According to a release character description of the central five teenagers in the film that had some very familiar names to an audience of a certain 90’s era. It lead many to believe that Jason, Billy, Zack, Kimberly and Trini would once again return to our screens with new faces in a reboot of the Mighty Morphin era of the show. A kibosh however was thrown on that theory when Lionsgate confirmed that this movie would serve as a continuation of the series. But what if it wasn’t?

I ponder that question because reports from the studio also liken their movie to a reboot in the same vain as Doctor Who’s very own reboot-ish that bullet pointed the end of the classic era of Who with a new story going forward but still acknowledged what came before.

My best bet would indicate that this is the course of action that Lionsgate will indeed follow but what about those pesky names?

Many others have guessed that their could be a mystical explanation for the names, possible a parentage connection that if you ask me sounds too hokey to be a viable candidate. No, I believe that those names have been chosen as an obvious full-stop indicator in a fresh start for a Movie cinematic universe that will grow alongside the tv one.

My evidence? I have none other than I don’t see Lionsgate wasting time on an origin movie for five movie characters if they only end up passing on their powers to the next Tv Rangers at the films end or indeed the next Tv series start.

4. Two Teams, One Universe

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 Two teams? And yes this episode did happen!

The film landscape of the modern era has evolved. With the success of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe no new blockbuster these’s days is a one off. With everyone playing catch up to create their own universe that expands from film and Tv, to books and even graphic novels. DC is well underway with a quick construction of the Justice League in Dawn of Justice and those funny-men of the Ghostbusters are also jumping head-first into the franchise pool with an all-female movie reboot coming next year. With a rumoured new younger-hotter male team in the pipeline and an animated feature in the offing. And thats not forgetting Harry Potter, Fast and Furious, Star Wars, Star Trek, and The Hungers Games franchised to-the-nines … phew.

So are you telling me that Lionsgate wont go that route with a new kick-ass team of Power Rangers?

Of course Saban would continue to produce new combinations of Power Rangers for their Tv audience but that doesn’t stop Lionsgate from starting their own story that compliments both universes. With the Rangers already getting a graphic novel sometime in the future, it seems that Saban and Lionsgate already have the groundwork for a shared universe already in the works. All is left is for the Movie to complete the trifecta.

5. That Short Film

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 If you haven’t see this I seriously recommend  it – @Skatronixxx

This list could hardly be relevant without mentioning that short film which took the internet by storm but in the process, infuriated Saban who eventually succeeded in getting the film taken off Vimeo and YouTube due to copyright infringement.

That aside, producer Adi Shankar defended the film as his comment on Hollywoods obsession with reboots and their total lack of empathy for the source material. Demonstrated in the shorts hyperbolic violence and brief nudity which obviously serves as an oxymoron to what Saban’s Power Rangers are all about. Comic-book violence that takes place within a structured reality where good always triumphant over evil.

Although critical acclaimed with some former Rangers cast praising the film, it stands to reason that a Shankar-esque big screen Power Ranger film seems unlikely. It is ironic however that Lionsgate’s chosen director Dean Israelite (Project Almanac) has been quoted as stating that the film will be “mature but also completely playful”. Indicating that obviously the film will be kid friendly but there may be more darker tones for adult viewers than you would initially assume.

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With the big screen return on The Power Rangers scheduled for release in 2017 and filming starting some-time next year. Stay tuned for updates for you favourite mighty-morphin’ team as we get it.

SKATRONIXXX’S THOUGHTS:- Wow what an great debut piece for the site @mitch_rated ! What do you think readers? Do you have any thoughts on a possible Power Rangers movie? If so let me @skatronixxx and @mitch_rated know on Twitter now

My Thoughts On A New James Bond

The names Bond, Skatronixxx Bond

Well it seems like Daniel Craig must have been reading my last article, no sooner had it been published, then he announced that he’d rather ‘slit his wrists than play James Bond’ again. First of all Daniel anyone who says they would rather self harm than play one of the most iconic movie roles of all time is a dick move. I know you are jealous your eyes will never be as blue as mine but serously mate that’s not cool, that’s even worse than what Channing Tatum said about G.I. Joe. I mean if you really didn’t want to do the new James Bond film then why film it? Why not let someone else have a go. The names Bond, Skatronixxx Bond. Make me an apple juice on the rocks, with a little cocktail umbrella! What do you think readers? Do I have what it takes to be the next James Bond?

*EIREE SILENCE* ok well maybe not, but I know 10 guys who would love to be the next James Bond and here they are. I could have chose to group them like my last article on the next Doctor Who, but Bond isn’t like that. He’s cool, stylish and a man of action. Bond doesn’t do organisation, well he does if it involves an exploding paperclip but that’s a story for another day.

Who are the guys hoping to fill Daniel’s shoes? Well let’s have a look….

Tom Hardy

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The top pick for most people is Tom and I for one can see it

Who Is He?

Actor, screenwriter, producer, hardnut and all round nice guy, who likes to pose in bad taste pants! Don’t believe me google it but don’t say I didn’t warn you haha.

Acting Resume?

Bane (The Dark Knight Rises), Max (Mad Max: Fury Road), Charles Bronson (Bronson), Ricki Tarr (Tinker Tailer Soldier Spy), Eames (Inception), Handsome Bob (Rocknrolla), Clarkie (Layer Cake),  Rodders (Sucker Punch)

Pro’s ?

Versatile actor, can do romance and action. Guys like him and women want him.

Con’s ?

Those MySpace photo’s that aint cool if you’re trying to be James Bond *shudders*

Final Thoughts?

He can do comedy, he can do romcom’s he can be an action hero. Yeah I reckon he’d be a good Bond. He’s commited to the roles, I mean remeber all that weight he put on just to play Bane? That’s the kinda of commitment I’d want from a Bond. Not a part time Bons *coughs Daniel Craig coughs*.

Tom Hiddleston

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The names Bond, Loki Bond

Who Is He?

LOKI!!!! One of the fangirls main heart-throbs rivalled only by Benedict.

Acting Resume?

Loki (Marvel Universe), Sir Thomas Sharpe (Crimson Peak), F. Scott Fitzgerald (Midnight In Paris), Henry V (Henry V)

Pro’s ?

Definately posh enough, can bring the Marvel fangirls over too.

Con’s ?

Is he ready for an action role?

Final Thoughts?

We know he can do action but that was action with SFX. How would Tom fare in a one on one James Bond style combat without Loki to back him up? I think he’d be the underdog James Bond, but do people wan’t that?

Eric Bana

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 You wouldn’t like this Bond when he’s angry

Who Is He?

Former Australian comedian who had a sense of humour bypass and became the Hulk!

Acting Resume?

Hulk/Bruce Banner (Hulk), Henry VIII Of England (The Other Boleyn Girl), Hector (Troy), Chopper Read (Chopper), Henry DeTamble (The Time Travellers Wife),  Joe Sabatini (Something In The Air)

Pro’s ?

Can play many roles both tough guy and romantic soppy/womaniser which is the perfect mix for Bond. Gotta say he’s my pick for the next Bond although he probably won’t get it.

Con’s ?

He’s not British or Irish, well neither was George Lazenby!

Final Thoughts?

I don’t know why but I like this choice. I like Eric Bana as an actor, I don’t know why I just do.  I think that’s important, sometimes you just gotta trust your gut. I know you’re probably thinking but you haven’t picked a valid reason!.I know that some of you know what I mean but yeah why not let’s have Eric Bana as Bond!

Hugh Jackman

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 A James Bond with adamantium gadget claws? Hell yes!

Who Is He?

Singer, actor, tough guy. Not many people have the voice of an angel but the claws of a Wolverine but Hugh does.

Acting Resume?

Wolverine (Marvel Universe), Van Helsing (Van Helsing), Jean Valjean (Les Miserables), Blackbeard (Pan), Leopold (Kate & Leopold), Stanley Jobson (Swordfish),

Pro’s ?

Lots of action experience. Plus he can sing, imagine James Bond the musical?

Con’s ?

Another Aussie but is he too old?

Final Thoughts?

Hugh as Bond reminds me alot of Roger Moore as Bond. We’d have the humour and the appeal from the older ladies. He’s shown he can do action roles with his personification as Wolverine, but how would he fare as an upperclass Englishman? Knowing Hugh I think he’d act all posh but crack into laughter when the camera pans off him. So come on Hugh show me you have what it takes!

Idris Elba

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 He’s certainly tough enough

Who Is He?

Actor, DJ, adrenaline junkie, tough guy. Idris is one of the most decorated and versatile actors in this shortlist.

Acting Resume?

Russell Bell (The Wire), John Luther (Luther), Nelson Mandella (Mandella:Long Walk To Freedom), Heimdall (Thor), General Stone (28 Weeks Later), Mumbles (Rocknrolla), Roque (The Losers), Shere Khan (The Jungle Book), Matt Gregory (Dangerfield)

Pro’s ?

Probably the bookies favourite for the role. Experience in other similar roles too.

Con’s ?

Is he TOO tough to be James Bond?

Final Thoughts?

Barely a day goes by where someone doesn’t say Idris is made to be James Bond. I know this may seem unpopular but I actually see him more as a villan. Yeah I know internet narks get your backlash ready, but answer me this why do YOU see him as Bond? Sorry but Bond no, villan YES!!

Damian Lewis

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 A ginger Bond? Why not?

Who Is He?

A luvy-darling English actor, with the class of a toodle pip old bean!

Acting Resume?

Nicholas Brody (Homeland), Major Richard D Winters (Band Of Brothers), Soames Forsyte (The Forsyte Saga), Henry VIII Of England (Wolf Hall),  Jeffrey Archer (Jeffrey Archer: The Truth)

Pro’s ?

He’s got the class, the acting pedigree and he could probably pull off the real life James Bond away from the big screen.

Con’s ?

Is he tough enough?

Final Thoughts?

Damian Lewis reminds me alot of Edward Fox. A really really posh actor who was good at well posh roles!  That was until Homeland, then he surprised me with his more action side. I see Damian as a good Bondbut more of a place holder rather than a multi film Bond.

Henry Cavill

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 Could the man of steel, also be Bond?

Who Is He?

I’m Batman no actually he’s Superman. Sorry couldn’t resist the chance to amuse some of my tweeps. He’s a down to earth English guy who’s most known for playing an out of this earth alien, who wears his pants over his trousers.

Acting Resume?

Superman/Clark Kent (DC Universe), Charles Brandon (The Tudors), Napoleon Solo (The Man From U.N.C.L.E), Theseus (Immortals), Melot (Tristan & Isolde)

Pro’s ?

The perfect mix of poshness and tough guy rolled into one. Plus he’s already auditioned for the role play Napoleon Solo in The Man From Uncle remake.

Con’s ?

Would his commitment to other big time roles get in the way?

Final Thoughts?

Superman by day, James Bond by night? That could work but whilst he’s Superman I unfortunately don’t see him as Bond. In an ideal world he’d be both but sadly we don’t live in that world.

Benedict Cumberbatch

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  Fangirls start your NERDGASM

Who Is He?

Decorated actor and fancrush of nerdgirls everywhere, look at those cheekbones *sighs* haha.

Acting Resume?

Sherlock (Sherlock Holmes), Smaug (The Hobbit), Khan (Star Trek), Dr Strange (Dr Strange), William Prince Ford (12 Years A Slave), Stephen Hawking (Hawking),

Pro’s ?

Fangirls love him, some fanboys love him.  He’s been in other scifi and fantasy universes and oh yeah he can act too!

Con’s ?

As much as fangirls love him I’m STILL waiting on the new series of Sherlock, would the same thing happen if he was cast as James Bond

Final Thoughts?

I’m torn, well actually I’m not. On paper this sounds like a good idea but after dissecting the idea I think there are roles that he’s actually better suited to and one of those is the other legendary character Doctor Who.

David Tennant

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 James Bond with a sonic screwdriver?

Who Is He?

The fact I heard a Tardis sound and started singing Doctor Who when I saw his pic tells you all you need to know.

Acting Resume?

The Doctor (Doctor Who), Barty Crouch Jr. (Harry Potter), DI Alec Hardy (Broadchurch), Peter Vincent (Fright Night), Kilgrave (Jessica Jones), Giacomo Casanova (Casanova), Prince Hamlet (Hamlet), Twigs (Tree Fu Tom)

Pro’s ?

The British public love him. He has lots of experience with special effects thanks to his stint as The Doctor and is winning us over to his serious side with his role in Broadchurch.

Con’s ?

Like one of the previous chocies, is David tough enough? I kinda see him as a more eccentric Q!

Final Thoughts?

I kinda have the same feeling towards David as Bond as I did about Benedict. Yes they are both really good actors, but I think ultimately it’s David’s lack of action roles that unfortunately let him down. Go away, get some action experience and come back in a few years and then yes you got my backing. Then again that’s what I thought when I heard the guy who played Casanova was cast as Doctor Who.

Jason Statham

​​MLXLS

 The names Bond, James ******* Bond

Who Is He?

Tough cockney hardnut and former British diver, yes diver! If you don’t believe me, Wikipedia it 😉

Acting Resume?

Frank Martin (The Transporter), Chev Chelios (Crank), Frankenstien (Death Race),Deckard Shaw (Fast & Furious Franchise),  Bacon (Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels), Turkish (Snatch),

Pro’s ?

He’s as British as a fish and chip supper, well more like winkles and jellied eel and has the action experience required.

Con’s ?

Like Idris is he TOO hard and would he alienate some of the older fans?

Final Thoughts?

If they want to go with a James Bond that will appeal to the younger generation this is the way to go, but will he sacrifice some of the older more classical James Bond fans to appeal to the younger ones? Imagine a James Bond film with Statham as Bond and Michael Bay directing *shudders*.

Michael Fassbender

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 Would his Magneto powers interupt with his spy gadgets?

Who Is He?

German-Irish actor who has  the the ability to control metallic objects and be awesome.

Acting Resume?

Magneto (Marvel Universe), Carl Jung (A Dangerous Mind), Brandon Sullivan (Shame), David (Prometheus), Edwin Epps (12 Years A Slave), Steve Jobs (Steve Jobs), Burke (Jonah Hex), Connor (Fish Tank), Bobby Sands (Hunger), Burton ‘Pat’ Christenson (Band Of Brothers)

Pro’s?

Other than Henry he’s a perfect choice and you know it.

Con’s?

Like Henry would his other work projects prevent him from dedicating the time that is required to playing Bond?

Final Thoughts?

Magneto? Steve Jobs? Carl Jung? James Bond? That would be one awesome resume that would be only rivalled by Ian McKellan. I reckon he’d be the ideal Bond but ultimately his commitment to his other roles would mean that now is not the right time for him and that makes me sad 😦

Aidan Turner

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 Would he be the first James Bond with long hair?

Who Is He?

Argh VAMPIRE *runs away*, wait a minute if he was a vampire how’d he have his picture taken? :S

Acting Resume?

Kili (The Hobbit Franchise), John Mitchell (Being Human), Ross Poldark (Poldark), Luke Garroway (The Mortal Instruments), Dante Rossetti (Desperate Romantics)

Pro’s?

He’d be the underdog Bond, you couldn’t help but root for him.

Con’s?

He’d be the underdog Bond, but do we need a James Bond we can relate too?

Final Toughts?

At first I was kinda like hmm really? But then sure why not, I mean he’s a good actor, he’s posh enough and he can do action. Does he have the typical James Bond mould, we have come to expect? No? Well maybe it’s time for a change and who better than Aidan?

Jamie Bell

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Before you say no, just hear me out

Who Is He?

Former child actor who’s younger than me! Ir’s not fair *sulks*

Acting Resume?

Billy Elliot (Billy Elliot), Ben Grimm/Thing (Fantastic Four), Jimmy (King Kong), Griffen O’Connor (Jumper), Ralph ‘Iggy’ Ignatowski (Flags Of Our Fathers),

Pro’s?

He’s been in acting for a LONG time maybe even longer than some of the guys listed here but is one of the youngest choices. Also his action roles and getting more impressive with each film.

Con’s?

Well other than the reasons listed below, I gotta say only his lack of upper class roles. If you’re not sure about his action experience, watch Jumper!

Final Thoughts?

Before you say no just hear me out. Yeah he was Billy Elliot but that was years ago. I’m sure that some of the other people I’ve chosen have done similar stuff in thier past but we shouldn’t let the past hold you back. If you wan’t a James Bond for the next generation Jamie is the one. Picture this a James Bond who makes his own gadgets? Yeah I know that’s Q’s role but think about it! I think Jamie would be the perfect mix of a James Bond and Q.

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So there we go, there’s a couple of people I think that could play the iconic one and only James Bond. Men want to be him, women wan’t to be with him, however finding a mix of both is quite tricky. Let’s hope they pick wisely.

Now as for Q in my eyes there can only be one man …… Mr Gadgetman himself!

​​SMXLL

PLEASE NOTE:- Since finishing this article I’ve also thought of another perfect James Bond and that’s Richard Armitage.

Who do you think would be a good Bond? Let me know now.

My Thoughts On A New Doctor Who

Who do you think the next Doctor will be???

Everyone loves Doctor Who, let’s face it, who wouldn’t love a show about about a time lord (if you don’t know what a time lord is SHAME ON YOU!!) that flies around in an old style police call box, saving Earth and other distant far off planets from evil monsters, alien overlords and robots that can’t travel upstairs. It’s a program that spans generations, partly down to it’s longevity but also universal appeal, I for one can say with 100% certainty that Doctor Who is watched by 3 different generations of my family and when Skatronixxx Jr is older it’ll be four.

There is another thing that people also love and that’s playing pretend, everyone has a voice, an opinion, no sooner has the new Doctor been cast than people are talking about his possible replacement. It’s an endless conveyor line that is only reserved for special roles such as Doctor Who and James Bond to my knowledge, there probably is more but I’ve just got home from work and am hungry so right now my food brain is ruling over my trivia brain!

So what’s this article about I hear you ask? Well if you read the title you’ll know ;o) but if you didn’t and miracously clicked this far, I’ll fill you in. It’s my choice on the next possible Doctor Who, however there is a twist! Rather than just being like other websites, I’ve chosen to mix it up a little and gone with six different catergories. Why did I do this? Well for one, it saves me being like other sites that list thier top choices but rather lazily do it by just copying it from other sites and slideshows, this way and yes admittedly I have included some of the ‘usual suspects’ however I’ve also gone a little bit outside the box with some of these choices and although you may start by thinking ‘Skatronixxx what’s he on about, I think he’s lost it this time’, hear me out and who knows maybe you’ll actually agree with me!

Now you may think that this is actually quite an easy thing to do but it was far from the opposite, consider some of the names I haven’t included in this post Russell Tovey, Tom Hiddleston, Martin Freeman ….

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So what better place to start than with the ‘The Usual Suspects’

Over the last couple of years, when it is announced that the current Doctor is leaving to pastures new, certain people have been linked with the role, time and time again. I’ve picked two of the most common linked people and they are:-

Stephen Fry

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Everyone loves Stephen Fry!

Who Is He?

Comedian, actor, television presenter, activist. There isn’t much that Stephen Fry hasn’t tried his hand at and to be honest not only does he always seem to thrive in his enviroment he excels in it. Plus he’s an all round likable guy!

Acting Resume?

Jeeves (Jeeves and Wooster), Dr Gordon Wyatt (Bones), Prime Minister Alistair Davies (24), Cheshire Cat (Alice In Wonderland), Mycroft Holmes (Sherlock Holmes), Master Of Lake Town (The Hobbit)

Pro’s ?

He wants the role and I mean REALLY wants the role, can you imagine the kind of dedication you’d get from someone who wants therole that badly.

Con’s ?

Is he well known enough to carry the role across the world, or is he too well known? Will people who know him be able to see him as The Doctor or famous person Stephen Fry playing The Doctor?

Final Thoughts?

I think he’d be a good Doctor kinda in the mould of Tom Baker, Colin Baker and Slyvester McCoy all wrapped into one. Less of a do-er more of a thinker it would work but only if his companion was more of an action Doctor.

Bill Bailey

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 He gets my vote for the outfit choice

Who Is He?

Comedian, actor, presenter, musican. Primarily known as a comedian, Bill tried his hand at acting with the breakout role of Dylan Moran in Channel 4 series ‘Black Book’ and didn’t dissapoint.

Acting Resume?

Dylan Moran (Black Books), Kenny Starkis (Johnathon Creek), Droxil (Doctor Who), Desk Sergeant (Hot Fuzz)

Pro’s ?

He’d inject some much needed humour into the role and bring back some of the people who think it’s ‘cool’ not to like Doctor Who.

Con’s ?

Would his many outside commitments get in the way?

Final Thoughts?

He’s been in Doctor Who before and almost got the part previously, before he narrowly missed out to Matt Smith. I think he’d be a good witty mix of Patrick Troughton crossed with Christopher Eccleston. I’d pay to see that grumpy Doctor.

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How about ‘An International Doctor?’

It’s a well known fact that The Doctor has always been played by a British actor. I mean for someone who loves London as much as The Doctor does it would make sense he comes from the UK right? Well wrong! Here’s some very well known foriegn actors who I think would be good for the role:-

Noah Wyle

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 I actually tweeted about him being Doctor Who last year

Who Is He?

American actor, one of the worlds most beautiful people (People Magazine) and all round genuine nice guy.

Acting Resume?

John Carter (ER), Flynn Carsen (The Librarian), Tom Mason (Falling Skies), Kenneth Monnitoff (Donnie Darko)

Pro’s ?

He would bring worldwide attention to Doctor Who most notably from ‘across the pond’ in USA.

Con’s ?

He’s NOT British! Hey I’m not being anti-non British here, I’m just stating a fact that some may dissaprove. I for one wouldn’t have an issue with him tho!

Final Thoughts?

I think he’d be a good Doctor and yes somewhere on the internet is a tweet I wrote months ago saying how I think he’d be a good Doctor, but why did I say that? Well I think that in part is down to him in The Librarians, I mean imagine Flynn as The Doctor that would be awesome yeah? I see Noah as a cross between Tom Baker, John Pertwee and David Tennant. I mix of action and humour and I think that would be pretty damn cool!

Misha Collins

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 At first I was like HELL NO! Now I’m like that could work

Who Is He?

American actor and director, cofounder of President of Random Acts, a non-profit organization dedicated to funding and inspiring acts of kindness around the world. Founded the ‘Greatest International Scavenger Hunt the World Has Ever Seen’, need I say more?

Acting Resume?

Alexis Drazen (24), Castiel (Supernatural)

Pro’s ?

Commited to roles, I mean how long has he been Castiel for? It feels like years now! Oh yeah not to mention the fans he’d bring with him from Supernatural.

Con’s ?

Is he better to being The Master rather than The Doctor, imagine him or even Tom Hiddleston being the The Master and you can see where I’m coming from.

Final Thoughts?

I think he’d be an awesome Doctor as he seems like an awesome guy but is that enough? Well he could bring his Castiel outfit across with him, would that work or would he look too much like David Tennant? I think he’s also play an AWESOME Master, I mean imagine if Noah Wylie was The Doctor and Misha The Master? That’s a fangirls dream and tbh that’s a dream I’d like to see too. However that’s the problem, the more it goes on, the more I think he’d be an as equally good Master and I just can’t choose between the two.

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Now for the ‘Wild Cards’

These are people who like The Doctor are considered wild cards. No not because of their temprament but because of the unlikeliness that we’d ever see them as The Doctor. That doesn’t mean we can’t still play pretend tho:-

Idris Elba

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 Could his broodyness be what the Doctor needed?

Who Is He?

Actor, DJ, adrenaline junkie, tough guy. Idris is one of the most decorated and versatile actors in this shortlist.

Acting Resume?

Russell Bell (The Wire), John Luther (Luther), Nelson Mandella (Mandella:Long Walk To Freedom), Heimdall (Thor), General Stone (28 Weeks Later), Mumbles (Rocknrolla), Roque (The Losers), Shere Khan (The Jungle Book), Matt Gregory (Dangerfield)

Pro’s ?

Versatility, I mean look at the pat roles he’s had. He’d be more than up to coping with a man who’s had many different incarnations previously.

Con’s ?

Is he too much of a tough guy to be The Doctor? Would it be more Doctor Who the action movie?

Final Thoughts?

I’d like to see this but I think it would only happen if America tried to do Doctor Who again. I mean the likelihood of Idris as The Doctor with James Bay pulling the strings could happen, but it would be too glossy and not The Doctor we love. As for the kinda Doctor we’d see from him? I kinda think it would be a mix incorporating the humour of Tom Baker with the kung gu, karate chopping action of John Pertwee.

James Marsters

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 Who better to be a wilcard than the wildchild himself?

Who Is He?

Actor and musician, although mainly known for one role he’s actually played a variety of roles, and was so good at playing an English character, I thought he was English for a period of time!

Acting Resume?

Lex Luthor (Voice) (Superman:Doomsday), Spike (Buffy), Brainiac (Smallville), Captain John Hart (Torchwood), Barnibus Greeley (Caprica), Victor Hesse (Hawaii Five-O), Tarkoff (Witches Of East End)

Pro’s ?

He was in Torchwood for a couple of episodes who he has the experience. Can do a good British accent and would he bring Buffy fans to the show?

Con’s ?

Would he commit for more than one season?

Final Thoughts?

Doctor wise I imagine him to be a mix of Christopher Eccleston and Matt Smith. Why? Well imagine Spike as Doctor Who and there you go! Do I think that would make a good Doctor? Definately! I’ve got you thinking about him being The Doctor now, haven’t I? Admit it 😛

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What the Doctor needs is ‘A Touch Of Class’

The Doctor is about as British as the phone box he flies around in! Toodle Pip and what not eh old fellow? What The Doctor needs is a touch of class, who better than these two:-

Anthony Head

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Was Giles the Doctor in disguise and Buffy his companion???

Who Is He?

Actor, coffee spokesperson, musician, farmer, and oh yeah West Country royalty. Perhaps another one of the most decorated actors on this list and perhaps the nicest one too. He also does a lot for charity. What more can you want?

Acting Resume?

Rupert Giles (Buffy), Uther Pendragon (Merlin), Chiron (Percy Jackson), Prime Minster (Little Britain), Repo Man (Repo! The Genetic Opera), James (Manchild),  Chester Grant (Monarch Of The Glen), Geoffrey Howe (The Iron Lady)

Pro’s ?

He was in the show as a villan once and has been linked to play the role of The Master on numerous occasions, so he is well known to the fans. Also he seems to embody each role he is in and make it his own.

Con’s ?

Would people draw toomany comparisons between Rupert Giles and The Doctor?

Final Thoughts?

I’d love to see him as The Doctor but not yet.I know you’re probably thinking why not yet, well let me explain. I see him as a mix of Tom Baker and more crucially Peter Capaldi. I think it’s just too soon for him, but I’d deffo be up for him being the next Doctor after the Peter Capaldi’s replacement leaves.

Benedict Cumberbatch

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 Fangirls start your NERDGASM

Who Is He?

Decorated actor and fancrush of nerdgirls everywhere, look at those cheekbones *sighs* haha.

Acting Resume?

Sherlock (Sherlock Holmes), Smaug (The Hobbit), Khan (Star Trek), Dr Strange (Dr Strange), William Prince Ford (12 Years A Slave), Stephen Hawking (Hawking),

Pro’s ?

Fangirls love him, some fanboys love him.  He’s been in other scifi and fantasy universes and oh yeah he can act too!

Con’s ?

As much as fangirls love him I’m STILL waiting on the new series of Sherlock, would the same thing happen if he was cast as Doctor Who?

Final Thoughts?

Yes he’s a nice guy, yes he’s an awesome actor but I can’t get the idea out of my head that he’d only do it for a short term thing. Doctor wise I think he’d also get a lot and I mean ALOT of comparisons to Sherlock. Yes they are both BBC shows and share some of the same writers so you’d know it would be good. But I’d want someone who wouldn commit for at least three seasons. Doctor wise I think he’d be kinda like David Tennant crossed with Christopher Eccleston.

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‘A Female Doctor?’ that’ll get the pulses racing

Like the usual suspects, one thing that is always brough up is the topic of a female Doctor. When where their be a female Doctor? Who could be a female Doctor? Well here’s my choices:-

Hayley Atwell

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 She WANTS to be Doctor Who, I admire that

Who Is She?

Up and coming actress and well known hottie *faints*.

Acting Resume?

Peggy Carter (Peggy Carter)

Pro’s ?

She wants the role, as I said for Stephen Fry previously anyone who wants the role that badly is bound to be good at it, and hopefully stick around for more than one season.

Con’s ?

Would the Whovians accept her as a strong female lead with a male assistant? If you bring back Rory than this could work!

Final Thoughts?

I’m really not sure. I mean she’d want the role and yes she is an awesome actress, but how would she fare as The Doctor? I’d rather have her as an assistant but alas she’d be too high profile for that.

Jaime Murray

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 She played time travel HG Wells, was that actually the Doctor in another guise?

Who Is She?

Decorated English actress with a keen interest in sci-fi and her father knew ‘The Kray Twins’, what a combination.

Acting Resume?

Stahma Tarr (Defiance), Helena G Wells (Warehouse 13), Lila West (Dexter), Stacie Monroe (Hustle) Gaia (Sparticus)

Pro’s ?

Would bring more guys back to Doctor Who. Her extensive sci-fi roles is invaluable when dealing with the special effects that Doctor Who involves.

Con’s ?

Would her commitments on other shows pull her away from the role?

Final Thoughts?

If the next Doctor is female I’d go with her. I mean when trying to think of a con I really couldn’t think of one other than her previous and current roles may mean that she couldn’t dedicate herself to the role 100, which is what The Doctor needs and us fans deserve. I’d imagine her to kinda like a John Pertwee Doctor sass with a touch of kickass.

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Let’s not forget about ‘The Young Guns’

Who said The Doctor has to be old? I mean he’s been young before and after he decided to regenrate again, how about going for one of these two younger models:-

Colin Morgan

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 Merlin is thought to be immortal, so are the timelords (to a certain extent)

Who Is He?

Up and coming actor, who’s resume is steadily growing he’s a genuine likeable guy in the ‘plucky underdog’ mould.

Acting Resume?

Merlin (Merlin), Leo Elster (Humans), Jethro Cain (Doctor Who), Tom Anderson (The Fall), Nathan Appleby (The Living And The Dead) The Duke of Blackwood (The Huntsman)

Pro’s ?

Young but not too young. Has experience in magicy type stuff from his days as Merlin. He’s a trusted commodity with the BBC (they know what they’re getting).

Con’s ?

Would people see him as too young even though he’s nearly 30 now (still older than Matt Smith was!)

Final Thoughts?

Yeah sure why not. I love him as Merlin and could see him as The Doctor. He’s older than my next choice and has the necessary acting experience, plus he’s been in the show before, like current Doctor Peter Capaldi. I think he’s be an interesting Doctor almost like a cross between David Tennant and Matt Smith, cute, quirky and cheeky. Who knows maybe Richard Wilson could be brought in as his assistant ;o)

Rupert Grint

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 Expecto Patronus, I mean EXTERMINATE

Who Is He?

If you live under rock or don’t know/like Harry Potter you’re forgiven for not knowing who he is! He is also one of the bookies favourites everytime the role comes up.

Acting Resume?

Ron Weasley (Harry Potter)

Pro’s ?

He would bring the Potterheads with him to Doctor Who and inspire a new generation of Whovians. He also has the experience of dealing with the wibbly wobbly stuff that is time travel from Harry Potter as well.

Con’s ?

Age, age, AGE!!! I’m sorry but he’s just TOO young. Assistant YES but Doctor NOOOO!!!

Final Thoughts?

Now don’t tell me off people but I actually think he’d be quite good as The Doctor but not yet. Maybe in 10 years + down the line I could imagine him as The Doctor but sadly not yet. For now I strongly think he’d be a good assistant or companion to The Doctor. How about brining him back years later to play The Doctor after he’s been the companion. You’ve got your first plot and storyline right there!

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So there we have it, there’s 12 possible future Doctors. Will any of them actually be cast as the one and only Doctor? Time will tell, if it’s one of the ones listed here, my response will be a wry smile and to simply say I told you so. Actually no it won’t because I like you will be marking out at the prospect of a new Doctor and wondering who theier replacement will be, like the Doctor regenerates so do we as we ponder and deliberate as to who the new Doctor could be. Now if only we had a Tardis to travel into the future and see who it was!Failing that there’s always the option of Doctor Skatronixxx 😉

Film And Comic Con Bournemouth

The FIRST Bournemouth Film & Comic Con

So it’s that time again! It’s time for another blog, this time my adventure involves, Skatronixxx Jr, turtles (not the ninja variety I’d like to add), the beach, dirt tracks, kamikaze animals and oh yes Lou Ferrigno aka the original and still in my eyes the BEST incredible hulk ever. Intrigued? Read on to find out about the debut event that was Bournemouth Film and Comic Con!!!

A few weeks ago I had an email from Showmasters, I did not think much at first as in the past I have dealt with them either as a tradesperson or unfortunately being declined for a press pass in the past. So when I got the email I did not think much at first but this one caught my eye, it was to do with Glasgow. Why Glasgow? Glasgow was miles away, from the countryside that I call home in the south west of England. For people who live abroad, particularly those in America that would be like living in Detriot and being invited to an event in Canada, it may look close on paper but it’s one big a*** journey in real life.

What did the lovely people at Showmasters (please invite me again, see I’m nice about you 😉 ) want from me? Was it to see if I would be interested in a table? If you don’t already know, my ex-wife and mother to Skatronixxx Jr is a writer and we attended events in the past. Was it to say I had be unsuccessful in my application for a press pass? WRONG!!! I had been invited as a member of the press, yes lil ol me woop woop. At first I was stunned, then I proceeded to have a dance round the front room and upon remembering that my curtains were open and I live in one of the busiest streets in town, stopped before I gave an elderly lady the fright (or delight, depending on what way you look at it) of her life.

You may ask why am I writing about Glasgow when this is meant to be a blog about Bournemouth, well there is a reason to this, my friends and it will all become clear shortly. You see upon hearing that I had been invited to Glasgow my mind went into overdrive, what would it be like? How would I get there? Who would I meet? Should I get a hat an 1950’s flasher mac and change my name to something press like, like Hugh Writum (sorry couldn’t resist). Alas as time progressed and it got closer to the event, my lil guy Skatronixxx Jr was sadly poorly (don’t worry readers he is now happy and healthy yay!) and thus being the most awesome dad I am, I made the decision to forego the event in favour of looking after my son.

A few more weeks passed and I got another email this time it was from Showmasters again, this time they were inviting me to the debut Bournemouth event, this time as a member of the press. This was awesome news, not only because they had invited me to another event, but also because Bournemouth is only an hour and a half away from me by car. I had made my mind up, I was going to this event and what’s more importantly my sidekick and son and partner in crime, Skatronixxx Jr was coming too.

 Me and Skatronixxx Jr as Press yay!!

As it got closer to the event, I did the usual things most people do when they go to conventions, plan who they’d like to see, what they would say if they ran into anyone. Check regularly on the site to see if anymore big names had been added or removed. As the weeks turned to days there was not much news about new attendees until the day before the event. I had forgotten to check the site a couple of days before so if an announcement had been made I was unaware. As I scrolled through the names of the guests, there was someone who I had not noticed there days earlier. It was someone big and green, no it wasn’t the plant from Little Shop Of Horrors or the Jolly Green Giant from the sweetcorn adverts, it was LOU ‘FREAKING’ FERRIGNO. Yes Lou Ferrigno aka THE HULK! Not the Hulk from the movies (as they are all just CGI these days 😦 ) or anyone who has played Bruce Banner. It was the original and the best Hulk of all time.

Sadly some of you may not know who Lou Ferrigno is, but if you’re older than me or around my age, you will remember the Incredible Hulk tv show which has Bill Bixby as well. This was one of my fave superhero shows growing up along with Adam West’s Batman. As this is not a blog about the old tv shows although that does sound like a good idea (mental note remember that idea for next blog), I’ll just leave you with the intro of the show below, for you to either get acquainted with retro tv gold or remember your childhood.

 This was one of my fave shows growing up, yay Hulk!

Anyway I digress, back to the blog, if you were a big a fan of The Incredible Hulk growing up as I was this was a MUST, I had to meet the guy himself and could not let this opportunity slip by so it was one million percent decided, I was to go to Bournemouth meet one of my childhood heroes and write about it as a member of the press! What followed was a frantic 10 minutes of trying to ask Lady Skatronixxx to get me a ticket for for a photoshoot and she did! She’s a keeper eh?

There was a catch though, Lady Skatronixxx is a huge Harry Potter fan and at the event was Harry Melling aka Dudley or as Lady S says Dudleeeeeeeeeeeeeee. For those of you who know me well know I’m more of a half-blood (Percy Jackson) than a potterhead (Harry Potter) but still I thought it would be pretty cool to meet someone from the Harry Potter franchise.

On the day of the event, I decided along with Skatronixxx Jr and current Lady Skatronixxx to leave at 6:30am, this was initially met by WHAT??? As this was Lady Skatronixxx’s first event organised by Showmasters, (her secondly only convention the first being the one we went to in Torquay, you can read about that in my other blog 😉 ) and I was the veteran or their shows, she decided to trust my judgment. So the car was loaded and away we went. In ninety minutes we would be in Bournemouth or so we thought.

The journey was fine until we got to the other side of Shaftesbury (if anyone is from Shaftesbury, I have been there loads and love your town but you may want to skip this part). I would like to add that up to this point I had been driving solely on my driving experience and knowledge of the roads but came unstuck on what can only be described as the worlds biggest roundabout. We headed towards the roundabout but then DISASTER the Sat-Nav froze as the one point I needed it, the road signs were pretty much useless so we decided to head towards Poole as that’s close to Bournemouth. After coming off the roundabout the Sat-Nav kicked in and said turn right down this road, so trusting the Sat-Nav I head down this road, which gradually went from two lanes to one and had hedges on each side. If another vehicle was to come down the road towards me I’d have had no choice but to drive down a mile of narrow windy roads backwards.

As I got further down the road I got worried more that I was going to come face to face with another motorist and all I could hear in my head was the dueling banjo music from Deliverance. Would we make it out alive? I’m too pretty to be some crazy woodland folks plaything. But the Sat-Nav is meant to guide us in times of need so I made the decision to trust it and persevere and suddenly the road disappeared and I was greeted with what can only be described as a dirt track that went straight up. Yes not forward, up! I was greeted by a muddy version of Mount Everest. The Sat-Nav had taken me to the middle of a wood in the middle of nowhere! Goodwork Sat-Nav I think not, if I was 100% certain kiddies weren’t reading this and not the true English gentleman I am you could imagine what I would write!

You know it’s never good when this music is playing in your head

I was faced with two choices, continue up the muddy Mount Everest of doom or head back to civilization and sanity, I chose the latter and after negotiating a three point turn in what can only be described as scene from attack of the mud people from Mars (yes I know that’s not a film) we escaped and headed towards freedom. A few minutes (and miles) later we were off the dirt track and on the road to Bournemouth. We headed back towards the roundabout the made the decision to head towards Salisbury.

Driving down the road, we had lost a little bit of time but were happy that we were surround by houses and not swamps. At this point I made the choice to trust the Sat-Nav as backwards as the route may have been that it was to send us down that road, it would get us there in the end. So we drove on towards Bournemouth.

Then the animals attacked!!

Damn evil scenic English countryside

Animals attacking? You must be thinking that I’m losing the plot, but let me explain. In the quaint, picturesque English countryside we are lucky to have some beautiful animals. The majestic fox, the cuddle bunny rabbit, the snuffly squirrel, the splendid pheasant. You are probably thinking what do all these animals have in common? Well I can tell you, on that day they all had a desire and deathwish and transformed from cute and cuddly animals to kamikaze animals from hell. They all descended towards my car and what can only be described as something from the world rally championships I safely avoided all the animals (and a dive bombing pigeon or two) and was back on the a-road to Bournemouth.

Oh the a-road how I had missed you. If you live abroad and don’t know how we classify roads, it’s quite simply a-roads mean lights, road markings and civilization, b-roads mean limited marking and limited lights and up to this point I had been on not c-roads, d-roads if they existed they should be called doom roads.

After negotiating the Ringwood roundabout aka the ‘spaghetti junction of the south’ and another 30 miles we were there. In Bournemouth yay!!! We had arrived.

We made our way over to the B.I.C the venue of the convention but before we did we stopped off in one of the main chain pubs for a much needed toilet break to find the barmaids and barmen dressed as local pop culture characters. This caused great amusement to me seeing the elderly who were drinking beer at 8:30am (why) confused by why someone was dressed as a character from Kill Bill or a minion from Despicable Me. These poor people seemed confused enough without having this curve ball thrown at them, this early on a Sunday morning!

After our brief stop we headed towards the venue, on the way we passed a building site that appeared to have drilled into the fiery sulphur pits of hell. Not even Satan himself could withstand the smell! Seriously Bournemouth what are you building there??

We arrived at the venue at 8:40 in time for the event to start at 9am. Already the que had snaked it’s way around the block and we proceeded to join the que. Infront of us was a man dressed as Harley Quinn who looked scarily like a woman much to Lady Skatronixxx’s amusement and not believing me it was a man. Behind us were a bunch of women dressed in vampish Freddy Kruger outfits, it was a lil cold for that, but hey I wasn’t complaining 😉

The queue moved quickly and soon we were at the front of the queue, we made our way in and were directed towards the press area. Where a very nice lady handed us our passes and we were on our way. Whilst we were there, it was quite hard to find our way around at first so we decided to follow the masses like zombies from The Walking Dead.

The first stand we were greeted by was the Showmasters silent auction stand. There were some cool items like a signed Star Wars photo and a script from Stark Trek. I was tempted to bid on an item but decided not to and we were on our way.

Unlike past events organsied by Showmasters I had been too, the guests were scattered around, so upon entering the hall and turning right we saw several mainstays and veterans of the scene, in other words David Prowse and Jeremy Bulloch, for you non Star Wars fans that’s Darth Vader and Bobba Fett. Other people we saw were Bonnie Langford, Veronica Taylor (the voice of Ash from Pokemon) and British wrestler Doug Williams. I did have a press pass so I could have jumped on the opportunity to interview any of the stars about various things, but as with happens with cons, the fans descend on their fave stars first before moving on the mooch around.

I decided to look around and scout the arena out and possibly come back later for any interview opportunities that arose. On turning the corner there was a comic stand but this was important for me as it had G1 Transformer comics, now if you have followed me for a while you know I’m a massive G1 Transformer fan. A quick flick through the comics and a reminiscent of my youth, I saw various things such as Galvatron quoting Terminator (only in the 80’s) . This was quickly followed up by looking at the adverts on the back of comics and Lady Skatronixxx showing her amusement at the fact that certain cereal brands around in the 1980’s are still around today (sorry I couldn’t resist!)

 Haha I miss the 80’s

As I walked away from the stand the reality sunk in that I had disposed of my G1 comics sadly before they had hit their true value and comics that I had picked up as 10 for a pound in Trowbridge market were now worth 2 pounds each, how depressing eh?

2 pounds each? Damn!!!

Walking through the various trade stands I saw more and more of my childhood toys marked up and classed as ‘vintage’. Vintage??? Am I now vintage? Vintage Skatronixxx, that sounds like a brand of cola! As is the case with many Showmasters events, most of the traders seem to stock similar things, in other words comics, toys and Funko Pops! There was the occasional weapon stand, for me I’ve never understood why the sell weapons at these kinda events. Although owning a replica of Excalibur is a pretty damn awesome concept, in reality it’s bloody dangerous.

Turning the corner I then came face to face with someone called Spockvegas who can only be described as a cross between Zachary Quinto and the late great Leonard Nimoy. It was frightening how much this guy looked like Spock but what was more frightening was he was charging people to have a picture taken with him. As awesome as this guy was, did he not realise he was at a convention where many more people dress up???

 He kinda looks like my dad crossed with Leonard Nimoy, that’s scary!!!

Next was the talk area, at other events I have been too, quite often you have to pay for the talks so to have them for free was an added bonus. We made our way out of the hall and found ourselves by the sports stars signing areas. Many names listed here were Frank Bruno and Joe Calzaghe, as this area was by the drinks section, I decided to stop for a rest, give Skatronixxx Jr a rest and get a much needed coffee. Unfortunately the bar did not take cards so we decided to sit and rest and hopefully catch a glimpse of the stars.

After a 20 minute rest, the stars had still not arrived (It was now about 10:30) and we merrily went on our way. The disappointment of not seeing these stars was only made up by seeing a local Bristolian boxer! It later turned out that Frank Bruno did appear as some photos that surfaced online show, but I was still kinda annoyed that I missed him.

We decided to go on a wonder and I was able to find a bar that took a card and I was able finally to get that coffee that my body craved. I was happy and now caffeinated.. After a trip to the loo brought on by a previous coffee, I inadvertently saw Gazza (not in the loo I’d like to add), he was tucked away in a private signing booth but looked healthy, which was good given his recent struggles. If you’re not sure of who Gazza is, he was the Beckham of English football before Beckham. I’ve enclosed a clip below for people not familiar with him.

Gazza was a ledge in his prime

In the next hall opposite was mainly the same as the one we had just come from, a mix of more celebrities ranging from Sylvester McCoy, Chris Barrie and various Game Of Thrones stars and trade stands. I don’t know why they didn’t put the Dr Who people all together, surely it would have made more sense to have the companions with the dr’s, but hey that was just me.

After a quick lunch break in town we headed back, where we then met up with my long term friend Matt. After a catch up we headed back into the arena for another look around, unfortunately it was again to busy to catch an interview and we made our way back.

By now we still had not been able to see Harry Melling, was the one person Lady S was hoping to see and hopefully the person who can convince her about the awesomeness that is conventions. We admitted defeat in our quest to find him and hoped he would be there the next day.

What were the high points of day 1? Well I gotta say going to my first convention as press rather than a trader or regular goer was pretty cool, and having the pass in my hand felt like I was the member of some elite club! In the past I had often looked at the people and thought how did you get that pass and thought I want one. Now I had one it could only be likened to Gollum in LOTR, my precious press pass (there’s a tongue twister, try saying that 5 times!) What were the low points? To be honest not many except the lack of baby changing facilities for Skatronixxx Jr but that wasn’t Showmasters fault.

‘My precious’ press pass

On the way back from the end of day 1, we chose to go back a different way, safe from the kamikaze animals and muddy roads of doom that led only to middle earth or the centre of the earth. We got back safely and recharged the batteries for day 2.

And so begins day 2. The journey down was much smoother after opting for the same way down that we came home the previous night. No animals with death wishes, just Sunday drivers!

 B****Y Sunday Drivers!!!!

For day 2 we got there a little bit earlier so the queue was not as long as it had been the previous day but I was excited for one reason only, well two words LOU FERRIGNO!!! The month before I had met another one of my heroes growing up Ernie Hudson and he was well awesomeness personified. How would Lou be? Would he be cool? Would he be annoyed and hulk up and go on an epic style rampage only one the likes of The Hulk could do? The mind boggles.

After a quick coffee to recharge the senses and calm the nerves, we had another walk around. Unfortunately it was again too busy to interview the celebrities, but success we had found Harry Melling! What happened next was Lady S fangirling out over seeing one of her heroes. I was happy I could see the geekiness growing inside her, my work had been accomplished she was now a fully fledged GIT. Now let me explain, GIT is not a bad term in my eyes it stands for Geek.In.Training! It’s what I use to describe someone new to the geek scene.

Lady S was admiring Harry Melling from a distance, too shy to go up and say hi. So I made the plunge and bought her not only an autograph but also a photoshoot opportunity. What followed was a quick 5 minute chat with a guy who seemed pretty down to earth and pleasant. Aren’t I a nice one eh?

 Lady S with Harry Melling aka Dudley from Harry Potter

Now she had met her hero it was my time to meet mine. After a quick break and visit to the nearby Oceanarium to stop and look at the turtles (unfortunately they were not teenage, mutant or ninja but Skatronixxx Jr loved them and so did I 🙂 ), it was time for us to go back for my photoshoot!

They may not be teenage, mutant or ninja’s but they were still pretty cool

As myself and Skatronixxx Jr queued up, I was speaking to people about Lou, some were Hulk fans, others bodybuilders. As the queue got closer, my palms got sweater, my heart raced faster, would I hulk up like my hero and become the Incredible Skatronixxx? The queue was marching and moving forward, then we caught a glimpse! He was there, The Hulk wooooooooop. After a quick handshake (this was a nervous feat as I felt his hand grip mine part of me was worried I would be picked up and thrown across the room) chat, and pose for a photo me and Skatronixxx Jr were on our way and so was our weekend.

 Another hero met 🙂

How would I sum up the weekend? First of all weird, as it was the first time I had been to Showmasters event as a non trader. Don’t get me wrong it was the good kinda weird, I felt like the member of an elite club as I said earlier. Maybe next time I’ll be braver and go and interview one of the celebs, that be a pretty awesome thing to do. Showmasters you did me proud, next time you invite me I’ll do you the same. Keep up the good work 😉

Optimus Convention 2015

Ghostbusters AND Doctor Who??? I’m there!!!

As you know over the weekend me and Skatronixxx Jr were away in Torquay. For those of you who live abroad Torquay is a seaside resort in south Devon (Devon is a county, it’s what we call regions of land like ‘States’ in America.) It’s famous for being a favoured retreat of the elderly, Agatha Christie fans (she came from Torquay and there is a museum to her within the town), Faulty Towers was also set and filmed here, so naturally you can imagine it’s normally a busy and thriving place. However our trip to Torquay was for none of these reasons, it was actually for an event called ‘Optimus’.

I know you’re probably thinking Optimus, that sounds like a Transformers convention right? Well actually you wouldn’t be a million miles away, it was for a locally based SciFi & Film convention. How did I come across such a local convention? Well I was on Facebook a couple of months ago, yes I know (boooooo Facebook) and I saw a picture that caught my attention. It was a picture of Ernie Hudson (Winston Zeddmore from Ghostbusters), Stay Puft and a Tardis! Yes Ghostbusters and Doctor Who in one picture, how could I not be interested. If you don’t know me well enough already, here’s a heads up there are two main fandoms that I care passionately about and that is Ghostbusters and Doctor Who!! I looked at the photo and it said ‘Optimus Convention, 1st of August, Torquay Riveria Centre’. I was like hmmmm I haven’t heard of this one but any convention that uses Ghostbusters and Doctor Who in it’s logo must be worth a quick look. I should say at this point I thought the inclusion of Ernie Hudson was just because they were having a Ghostbusters presence at the event, like when you goto London Film and Comic Con and they have the amazing ‘UK Ghostbusters’.

I click on the website and wait for it to load and as I skim over the website I see there’s the usual convention guests aka. Chris Barrie and Colin Baker, then the page scrolls across and it’s Ernie Hudson. Yes Ernie ‘freaking’ Hudson as a guest, I sit there open mouthed for about five minutes and take in that one of my heroes was at a convention in the UK and what’s more he was in a convention not in London but down the road from where I live. How could I say no, not only that but there was also Mark Bryan Wilson aka Slimer and Billy Brian aka Stay Puft. That was it, I was sold, the chance to meet Ernie Hudson, Mark Bryan Wilson and Billy Bryan was too much to pass up. I bought my tickets on the spot fearful that the tickets might soon be sold out.

For the next couple of weeks I was thinking about the convention as I have not been to the Optimus one before, I was like, what would it be like? Would it be busy? Would there be hours of queues like at other conventions I’ve been too? As the days came closer, I got more and more excited but also more and more scared that I would fanboy out when I meet one of my heroes or worse yet what if he wasn’t nice. I used to work in music and had the pleasure of meeting quite a few famous bands most were awesome, but there was a few who’s music I loved but when I met them, they were so far up themselves they became inside out as as you know I’m not like that. I already knew that someone who was in Ghostbusters and shares my view on the remake couldn’t be that bad but you still  worry!

Let’s fast forward to the day of the event and me arriving, as we walk up a steep road with Skatronixxx Jr in his buggy, I hear a noise, it’s a siren but not just any siren, it was the Ghostbusters siren! Like a moth to a flame I was drawn towards the sound with a smile on my face, a grin bigger than the cheshire cat. I get closer and see the event but no queue. Were we the first people to arrive? If you’ve been to a larger event you know that at 9am the queue is usually a few hundred people long and it looks like a mix of the Justice League of America, the entrie Marvel Universe with a few whovians and GoT fans thrown in for good measure. No there was a few people scattered about and queing but they were all wearing the trademark brown suits with packs on thier backs. They were Ghostbusters! My kinda people, we queue up for about five minutes before going to the area. I was surprised at the quickness of the queue and the efficiency of the staff on this part.

Let’s do this Skatronixxx Jr! What you talking about daddy???

Outside the venue the sound was coming from a car that resembled a converted Morris Minor that had been turned into Ecto-1 with various Ghostbuster cosplayers outside. The car although it was not the same model as Ecto-1 was still damn impressive and I liked the guys commitment to the cause. The fact that they were also willing to pose with me and Skatronixxx Jr for a quick snap was a testament to thier awesomeness.

 Ecto-1 UK Style!

We move towards the main arena and see another recongnisable car it was the BTTF DeLorean, just sitting there with no cord or barrier around it, now I know it probably wasn’t THE DeLorean but it was a damn impressive sight and needless to say after another quick photo we made our way inside. The first thing I saw and heard as I entered the building was a Doctor Who cosplayer dressed as Colin Bakers’ Doctor walking around saying ‘I’m lost this place is bigger than the Tardis’. We head through the main arena and then turn right, upon turing right I see the Scarlett Witch, Jack Sparrow and Wolverine drinking coffee and am like ah ok this must be the drinks area. Instead we turn left and enter the main hall.

Yay DeLorean 🙂

As we enter we are greeted by the sight of Ecto-1 just sitting there in all it’s glorly. I have been lucky enough to already see Ecto-1 that was at LFCC 2014 but this was different, whereas I was able to touch the Ecto-1 at London it was whilst being surrounded by other people and did not make a good photo oppertunity. Needless to say we pounced on this chance and after a few quick photos infront of Ecto-1 we made our way around the hall. Upon turning right we the people that me and Skatronixxx Jr were going to be meeting later sat at thier respective signing tables (Mark Bryan Wilson and Billy Bryan) and on next table along was Ernie Hudson! As he was the main headliner of the event I almost expected him to have his own section but he was quite happy to sit with everyone else and even take a few selfies with them too. I thought straight away he seemed like a pretty cool guy.

Who doesn’t love Ecto-1?

As we made our way from the signing tables we head towards the trader stands, the first stand I see saw some pretty dangerous looking knives and swords and needless to say I moved swiftly on. The next stand was a jewelery one and had various assortment of nerdy type jewelery, if I was a girl I would have been in my element as I came across things like scrabble wrist bangles and lego earrings. The next stand was a t-shirt stand and as many of you know I have set up Skattees, I looked at the t-shirts admired thier handy work and moved swiftly on. The next stand I was pleased to see at an event and I wish more events and conventions would have these kind of stands, it was one for the ‘Cat Protection League’. I often think that these kind of stands would be good at bigger events and was glad that this event had one, it further cemented my view that this was my kind of event as it had a nice mix of Ghostbsuters, Doctor Who and charity events. As we walk further along we come across more traders, the usual kind of things, brick-a-brack and, clothing and funko pops! At the back were some more signers, the most notable being James Cosmo who played Jeor Mormont ‘Lord Commander Of the Night’s Watch’. Now this was quite an amusing sight seeing such an impressionable character from GoT in a t-shirt but hey these people are people too. As we circle the hall we come across various other guests and stands.

EEP! Looks scary :S

I look up and see probably some of the best cosplayers from Planet Of The Apes, I’ve ever seen and try to figure out how we get up stairs with a buggy. Upon doing another lap of the building , the lift is spotted and we head up to the upper level. On the next level up are more signees and more tradestands. Optimus organisers if you are reading this, I get why you had the guests spread out but next year PLEASE keep them together, trust me this is a proven plan and it works! I personally did not like the fact that the guests were spread out but chose not to dwell on this too much. On the top level I see yet another charity stand, this one was for children and as you know being a parent I have a quick look and quick chat before moving on. The next stand was a Japanese food stand, now luckily I have a cousin who lives in Toyko so I had seen some of this stuff online before but rather than marvel at the chocolate pandas I saw my eyes drift towards something green. It was Slimer! Yes the Slimer 🙂 one of my childhood heroes, I’m sorry but Casper had nothing on Slimer. This was the stand for the Uk Ghostbusters, I try to get a look but naturally as you can imagine Slimer is quite a big star and had all the Ghostbuster cosplayers swarming around him 😉

SLIMER!!! Oh yeah and Wall-E 😛

After a couple more trader stalls we run into the POTA cosplayers and got an even better look upclose at these costumes and let me tell you they were amazing! I have seen POTA cosplayers before but not to this extent, everything was so detailed the clothes, the skin, the fur! Behind the cosplayers we saw the flash of a camera and was drawn across to see a T2 and an Alien statue, after another quick pose and photo we were interupted by GANGHAM STYLE? As I look over the balcony we see a steampunk Dalek Khan fully lit up like a boy racer and dancing to Gangham style I kid you not. It had to be seen to be believed. Unfortunately I was too entranced by this to get a video  :’o( Rookie mistake I know

Awesome POTA cosplayers with some Terminator and Alien statues

We had back downstairs and see a fully lit up R2D2 move across the floor and decide to follow it to the next room. In the next room there are more signers mainly cosplayers, comic book artists and a few martial artists along with a few more charity stands. On the door pointing downwards there was a sign that read ‘Photoshoot’. I quickly look downstairs to see about 40 long winding stairs that are impossible to carry Skatronixxx Jr down and think how will I get down there! In todays society you would have expected to have the photoshoots in a place with disabled and parent and baby access. This was again another sour note on an otherwise positive day. Going back into the arena, we see Ernie Hudson, a quick head nod is exchanged between me and him as he is escorted in one way and I head in the other. Wow Ernie Hudson acknowledged me, yay!! *FANBOY MOMENT!!**

Us with R2D2, a Dalek that danced to Gangham Style (seriously) and a steampunk R2D2

The next mission was to find a way to get Skatronixxx Jr downstairs for his photoshoot, we circle the arena before heading back to the lift and inside the lift we meet a friendly janitor who offers to show us a way, which is pushchair friendly for the photoshoots. As we head a side entrance of the building we quickly scope it out before coming back later.

 Awesome Dr Who props! Look a Union Jack Dalek

The first photoshoot of the day was with Ernie Hudson, there was about 10 of us in the queue and before the photo, Ernie comes out and personally thanks us all for coming, asks how we are doing and shakes our hands. Before he gets to myself he see’s Skatronixxx Jr remarks on how awesome and friendly he is and gives him a high five, yes Ernie Hudson high fived my son :oD *FANBOY MOMENT2!!** The queue moves quickly along until it is mine and Skatronixxx Jr’s turn. For those of you wondering why I took him along to see one of my heroes, the main reason was that I love my son and want to share my fandoms with him. I would have felt bad if I had a photo when he was there without him, so up we both go for out turn. After another quick chat, nothing…. the photographer utters the immortal line ‘It’ll just be a second’. I take this oppertunity to have a five minute chat with Ernie where we discuss how he’s finding this part of the country, the event and more about my son. After another high five for my son the photographer is ready, then FLASH, before I get a chance the photo is taken. I wait patiently to see what it looks like, the chance for a photo with hero and the end result is me fanboying out mid pose looking like the leader of UKIP aka Nigel Farage or as comedian Russell Howard says a ‘scared turtle’ noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo. The iconic photo with my hero and he I look like a constipated turtle **AWKWARD FANBOY MOMENT!!**, I was visibly distraught and upset the photographer had not given me more of a chance to get ready GRRR. Instead of focusing on the negatives, I look on the positive that I had met my hero, he was awesome, he high fived my son and whereas most other people said a quick ‘hi and bye’ I was able to chat to him for five minutes.

Using this new found confidence, me and Skatronixxx Jr walk into our photoshoot with Mr Stay Puft he seemed like an awesome guy but was not in the mood to sadly chat and after a quick hi and bye we were out of there. This photo came out a lot better tho I’d like to add 😉

The last shoot was with Mr Slimer and there was just me and the other guy from the last shoot, yes there was only two of us, I could not get over this fact that out of so many Ghostbuster cosplayers on site, only me and this other guy had taken this oppertunity. Unfortunately after a full day of taking photo’s the camera was slighly worse for wear AGAIN! After a 15 minute wait the only other person had a lengthy chat with Mr Slimer about the same things I had the chance to moments earlier with Ernie Hudson. Alas me and Skatronixxx Jr were too busy wrestling to make the most of this oppertunity. Again the photo came out good, I’m getting better at this posing stuff and we were on our way.

It was so worth it to meet these 3! Check out my awesome fanboy moment with Ernie Hudson haha

So what did I think of the Optimus Convention, well first up let me start with the bad, there was no way for people in wheelchairs, disabled or parents with buggies to get to the photoshoots. As we were told by a member of staff when trying to enter, the way we were shown by the very helpful cleaner was for VIP only and if we wanted to come back down we had to negotiate the entire building and down the 30 odd steps! Come on people be reasonable!!! The second bad point was the photographer was very slap dash and rather than actually check the photo is was ‘click’ and away you go, the third was only niggly but the fact the guests weren’t all sat together. This made it hard to find certain people.

Now that’s been and gone out the way let’s take the positives, first of all very friendly signees and cosplayers, which is always good! There was a family atmosphere that I liked this. Whereas certain mentioning no names ‘big events’ you may feel like you’re in a cattle where you get moved along from stand to stand, there wasn’t that. Now if that was because it was a small convention or a newish one, I hope it doesn’t lose it, especially with those charity stands too. The guests (most of them) were very friendly especially Ernie Hudson and he further cemented my proof that he is a more awesome Ghostbuster and person than Bill Murray. Sorry Bill but it’s true.

Will we go next year? Well if you get Dan Ackroyd, we’ll not only be there but camped out front! That’s your challenge don’t let us down 😉

A Thundercats Reboot For 2015

 If you don’t know this cartoon SHAME ON YOU!!

For my last reboot I decided to recast one of the classic tv shows from youth into a modern movie. A lot of you liked the casting ideas, so I decided to recast another one of my fave tv shows from my youth. A lot of talk has been buzzing around the internet for years about a potential film most notably in 2011. If you’re not sure what program I’m talking about let me say one thing ‘Hooooooooooooooooooooooooooo’.

 No it’s not this Hoooooooooo

No I’m not insulting women or impersonating a WWF (sorry WWE fans, for us old school wrestling fans it will ALWAYS be WWF not the pg-era watered down version that is now WWE, anywho I digress!) wrestler called Hacksaw Jim Duggan. Who was Hacksaw Jim Duggan well he was a wrestler who carried a plank of wood to the ring and shouted hooooooooooo! No the meaning ho did not have the same meaning in the 80’s as it did now before any of you are like :oO * faints * If you haven’t guessed the program by now let me put you out of your misery, it’s the one, the only Thunder, Thunder, Thundercats!!!!!!

 One of the best cartoon intros EVER

Besides having one of the best and I mean the BEST cartoon intro’s of all time. I know me and my brother (who’s twitter username is @captrodwell ) still know every word to this intro even though he may try and deny it ;o) Chances are if you’re not in the same age bracket as me you wouldn’t know Thundercats or you may have seen the remake. Trust me this one show like Transformers when the original cartoon is far, far, far superior!

For those of you who haven’t seen it, let me explain the premise if it to you. It was a show created in 1985 during the ‘golden era of tv cartoons’. The cartoon is about a race of catlike humanoid aliens on a planet called Third Earth. It begins with the Thundercats homeworld Thundera meeting its end, forcing the Thundercats to flee their homeworld. Whilst fleeing the fleet is attacked by the their enemies, the evil mutants of Plun-Darr who destroy most of the starships in the “ThunderFleet,” but spare the flagship hoping to capture the legendary mystic Sword of Omens they believe is on board. The sword holds the Eye of Thundera, the source of the Thundercats’ power, which is embedded in the hilt. Though the Mutants damage the flagship, the power of the Eye drives them back. The damage to the ship means the journey to their original destination is not possible, instead having to journey to “Third Earth”; which will take much longer than they had anticipated. The eldest of the ThunderCats, Jaga, volunteers to pilot the ship while the others sleep in capsules; however, he dies of old age in the process, but not before ensuring they will reach their destination safely. The flagship contains the young leader of the Thundercats, Lion-O, as well as Cheetara, Panthro, Tygra, WilyKit and WilyKat, and Snarf.

When the ThunderCats awake from their suspended animation on Third Earth, Lion-O discovers that his suspension capsule has slowed, rather than stopped, his aging, and he is now a child in the body of an adult. Together, the Thundercats and the friendly natives of Third Earth construct the “Cat’s Lair,” their new home and headquarters, but before long, the Mutants have tracked them down to Third Earth. The two races making their presence known the Third Earth, does not go un-noticed. However a intrusion of these two alien races upon the world does not go unnoticed, however, as a demonic, mummified sorcerer Mumm-Ra recruits the Mutants to aid him in his campaign to acquire the Eye of Thundera and destroy the Thundercats so that his evil may continue to hold sway over Third Earth.

So there you have it! In a nutshell it’s a show about half cat-half human people forced to flee their dying home planet, they get attacked whilst leaving and land on a strange planet. Where they are followed by their enemies and the intergalactic battle continues on a strange new world for a weapon that can sway the battle in good or bads’ favour. If you are having trouble grasping this concept, subsitute the Thundercats with Autobots, Mutants with Decepticons, Third Earth with Earth and Sword Of Omens with Energon and you get the point! Ok, ok, it’s a Transformers rip off, I know but weren’t most shows in the 1980’s? The only difference was unlike Gobots this was good!

Now let’s get down to business and let me start casting the characters who I feel would be ideal for this movie.

Lion-O

In the heavily rumoured remake of 2011, it was leaning towards Brad Pitt as the central character, this for me was wrong. At the time of the Thundercats home planet being destroyed Lion-O was only 12 years old and due to his suspension capsule being broken, although he aged pshyically he did not age mentally and was a child trapped in a man’s body. For me I decided to choose someone who is well known in the public eye but some of you may go WHAT??? For me I went with KIT HARRINGTON. Why did I go with Kit? Well it did take me a lot of thinking but let me explain. For those of you who have see Kit’s work in Game of Thrones, will know that he is a brilliantly versatile actor and quite often he had to make a choice between what was good for himself or good for the Night’s Watch. I for one would like to see this kind of inner turmoil and added depth brought to the the character of Lion-O

Tygra

Tygra is quite often the voice of reason, a keen mixture of warrior and scientist. He is Lion-O’s second in command and the one he turns to for support and advice. Tygra is also responsible for the design of all the buildings on Third Earth. Tygra has a special and unique combat skill and this is the ability to create illusions in other peoples minds, kinda like Professor X in the X-Men. He is also the most quiet and reserved Thundercat but not afraid to fight when the occasion is called for it. For me there was only one choice, given not only his likeness, ability to act as the quiet laid back one who you can rely on when the chips are down is none other than HUGH JACKMAN. Think about it, if Hugh could slightly tweak his Wolverine character to that of Tygra I for one think he would be perfect.

Panthro

I know a lot of people will be going Vin Diesel, Vin Diesel, VIN DIESEL but I disagree!! Panthro is the Thundercat who is not only strong but also incredibly talented with his hands. For this you need yet another character who is able to bring the mix of Panthro to the big screen. On one hand Panthro is a family man with a great sense of morality, family pride and also an infectious laugh, he is also known as a stone cold warrior. For me the choice is easy and I have gone with THE ROCK. Yes I know I chose The Rock as He-Man but let’s face it, very few characters are able to portray these roles and few do it to the level as The Rock. Plus I’d love to see Panthro lay the smackdown on that candy ass Mumm-Ra!

Cheetara

Cheetara is a no nonsense asskicking female warrior. She is often the voice of reason amongst the gang and has a sixth sense for trouble. Yes she has the Spideysense! However this sixth sense also allows her to see visions many of which, she does not want to and as a result she often views this as a cure. Who would I pick for this role? Well it’s somebody who’s no stranger to being in torment I went with CHLOE BENNET. Some of you may be going who? But for those Team Marvel fans amongst us, who else thinks that the Skye character from ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D’ would make an awesome Cheetara? Me for one! Plus we’d get to see Chloe in a Cheetara outfit for me that’s a win win situation!

WilyKit and WilyKat

These are the ‘children’ of the show, often referred to as ‘Thunderkittens’ for me this could be any child actor and actress, I wouldn’t know who to cast due to my lack of knowledge of child actors and actresses! Yes it may be a kop out but I bet you couldn’t think fo many acting 8 year olds!

Snarf

Snarf is a the loveable character, think Scooby Doo but a cat. Snarf was Lion-O’s protector when he was a boy, quite often protrayed as the comedic relief Snarf is in fact quite intelligent and surprises the Thundercats with witty thoughts and reluctance to shy away from battle. For me, although I was toying with the fact of Will Ferrel, I had to go with SETH ROGEN. Yes I know I used Seth in my He-Man reboot but he’s such an amazingly talented actor, try and tell me you wouldn’t want to see Seth Rogen portray Snarf. You can’t can you.

NOW FOR THE VILLAN!!!

Mumm-Ra

For me Mumm-Ra was one of the most terrifying people from my childhood, along with the person who did the voiceover in Count Duckula. So I have to get this right, I have to get an actor who will strike fear into another generation of children the same way he did to me when I was young. I mean for someone who is a ‘chief demon priest’ and the self proclaimed ‘everliving source of evil’ you need someone who can make an impact. Sorry Potterheads but for me Mumm-Ra would kick Voldermorts ass in a second. For me I thought long and hard about this, some off the wall names popped up like William Fichner. I went with someone who I feel was an inspired choice CHRISTOPHER WALKEN. Yes I know he’s in his 70’s and Mumm-Ra is meant to me some jacked up juiced up evil sorcerer, but for me I chose to focus on the psychological aspect and I for one think that Christoper would be great at this and I’d be scared to say no!

Right that’s my concept for a hypothetical Thundercats reboot, I hope you like the choices, I know each one of you may have your own opinions but that’s what this article is meant to do, get your creative juices flowing, who would you have as Lion-O let me know, hooooooooooooooo.

Besides it can’t be worse than the 2011 cartoon remake!

Why Everyone’s Talking About The ‘Deadpool’ Movie

Ryan Reynolds is back from another ‘Deadpool Movie’ but will it be good?

Ok I know haven’t done much blogging for a while but those of you who know me, know that I’ve been having some big stuff going on so although I will always try and write something there may be gaps between when I write loads and not a lot. That doesn’t mean I don’t still love you guys so I thought I would scrape the dust off my antique Dell laptop to write a new piece for the site. But what piece? What to write? There’s so much going on in the internet right now but after much thinking and letting my twittery tweeps vote, they chose the upcoming Deadpool movie. So my skatfamily buckle up because this should hopefully be as an interesting read as it was to write!

Who’s Deadpool? Now I know some of you may be thinking ‘How could he not know who Deadpool is?’, of course I know who Deadpool is but I’m aware that some of my tweeps may not know who he is so I’ll do a quick overview of who he is and why so many people love him.

Deadpool or to more accurately call him ‘Wade Winston Wilson’ is 100% badass, if you got Chuck Norris, Bruce Lee and Steve Austin and mixed them together you’d get Deadpool. Yes that’s right Beeftekos I said Deadpool could kick Chuck Norris’s ass, sorry dude! Deadpool first appeared in Marvel Comics in 1991 so given his relatively short life he quickly because one of the Marvel universes most endearing characters, that will tell you something about his appeal.

Deadpool is a mentally unstable and disfigured mercenary for hire featuring in comics selling his services to the highest bidder but it wasn’t until 1997 when he was given his own comic book series that he came into his own. Writer Joe Kelly wanted to create a character that combined pop culture slapstick with angst however he always had his morality in tact. If you think of a hitman with a conscience you got Deadpool.

Typical Deadpool humour

Now on to the movie and why it is one of the most highly anticipated and talked about movies of recent times. Deadpool has appeared in the Marvel movie universe but let’s be honest he sucked. The casting was ok it featured Ryan Reynolds as the wise cracking mercenary but it was less about Deadpool and more about his alter ego in the film ‘Weapon 11’ but I’ll cover that more later.

Let’s all forget this happend people

For many the combination of Ryan Reynolds was a match made in heaven and some a match made in hell. However one thing’s for certain the tease of a possible Deadpool movie admittedly excited more people than the actual Wolverine origin film. So when rumours of a possible spin off came to life in 2011 the internet was a blaze but it wasn’t until this year that most of the mainstream media picked up on it and the film gathered real pace and traction.

So that’s Deadpool and a little bit of the back story regarding the film, let’s get on with the show and more importantly this article. How should I break down the article? Hmm I think rather than keep it rigid, I’ll just go with the flow I think Deadpool would appreciate that and it’s more akin to my style 😉

So what are my thoughts on Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool? Well I gotta be honest with you when I first saw Wolverine Origins I thought Ryan Reynolds character sucked. It felt like writers of the film liked the concept of Deadpool but were too afraid to either commit to making him a bigger part of the movie or didn’t really understand who he was. Now don’t get me wrong there were good parts where we caught a glimpse of what a possible expanded role of Ryan Reynolds as Deadpool could look like (the lift scene for one). But like many things it fell flat and I think for years looking back on it I blamed Ryan for the suckiness of Deadpool however years later I can now see that he actually wasn’t half bad instead her was stuck with the suckieness, so as for the casting yeah why not I think Ryan could be good. He has the perfect blend of arrogance, morality and a semi-brief action film career who could pull this role off. If it was me I would have chosen the ‘other’ Ryan, Ryan Golsing as my Deadpool but hey it could be worse.

Part girl, part squirrel it’s Squirrel Girl

What do I know about the film? Well quite a bit actually, I know some of you may know more than me, some of you may know less but one thing I do know is it will have action. From the leaked photos released not so long ago it looks like it’ll be less about the back story and more about the action.

Let’s go through some of the things that have also been leaked onto the net:-

CONFIRMED – Deadpool will break the ‘fourth wall’. What it is the fourth wall? Well it’s where a charcter actively engages with the audience during the film. This excites me this teases that Deadpool will have a screw loose., which bodes well for his character development and already this fact has me more excited than anything else already.

CONFIRMED – Deadpool will be a reboot and NOT a continuation from that horrible, horrible cameo in the Wolverine film. This is great news as for the younger audience and casual viewer who may not remember or have seen that train wreck thus giving many new fans a chance of meeting the ‘proper’ Deadpool for the first time. Also for the more hardcore fans like us it’ll be a fresh start at the chance of seeing one of our favourite characters reborn.

CONFIRMED – Ryan Reynolds is back to play Deadpool, well that’s a no brainer really!

CONFIRMED – Ed Skrien will play Ajax. For those of you who don’t know Ajax is a character from the Marvel universe who is closely associated with Deadpool. His role was as enforcer for Doctor Killbrew’s ‘Weapon X Project’ so with this casting we may possibly see a little bit of a back story, either this or expect him to be one of Deadpool’s main adversaries through the film.

CONFIRMED – Squirrel Girl and Weasel WILL be in the film. I know that 99% of you are probably going WHO? Well Squirrel Girl is a girl who is part Squirrel and can communicate with squirrels, how this fits into the film, I for one would love to see how. As for Weasel? This one is more interesting, he’s Deadpool’s best friend. He act’s as an information broker, arms dealer and confidant for Deadpool, however due to Deadpool’s frequent mood swing’s he also often becomes number one target for Deadpool’s blind rage. Rumoured actors to play the role of Weasel include Seth Green and Justin Long, I for one would be happy with either of these choices.

NOW FOR THE BIG IF

…………….

What will the rating of the Deadpool movie be?

There’s two ways this movie could go PG-13 /12A or 15+

I’m torn on what rating this film should get and what rating I’d like this film to get. Personally I think the film warrants a 15 rating however unfortunately due to the ironic popularity of the Marvel universe I expect to see as lower rating. How could this impact the film?

Well a 15 rating would allow the character to thrive in a setting he should be accustomed too, this would please the more hardcore older Marvel fans like me and you. It would allow the film to be fast packed and full of action like his character is within the comics. The impact for this film wise however would not be so good for the wider picture.

If Marvel truly cared about this project and character development they’d give it the older rating, however this would eliminate most of the audience and a large chunk of any profits. By lowering the rating although you would essentially be watering down the Deadpool character you would do so by selling it to a wider audience, thus introducing the character to a bigger audience. I also see the cockiness of Deadpool’s character setting well with the pre-teen market, this would be removed if the more mature rating remained.

So it’s tricky do you keep the higher rating and stay true to the character or do you water him down to a younger audience at the prospect of making him more popular with a wider audience?

This blog has raised more questions than answers and now hopefully you’ll understand why I’m so intrigued by the prospect of this movie!

Skatronixxx Is In The News!

Yes I Skatronixxx have made the news, no I did not co-ordinate the worlds largest conga line or run the furthest distance humanly possible smothered in human whilst chased by a bear although both of those would be truly newsworthy stories! Instead I awoke from my zombie like slumber to find  a notification on Twiiter that caught my attention. Now those of you who follow me know that I go through all my notifications religously and although I may not reply to every tweet I at least favourite every response that I get. After all you take the time to to tweet me it’s the least I can do to return the favour, plus I love you guys, you’re awesome you’re like my second family all around the world 🙂

 

Anywho I digress, this one caught my attention, it was from one of my tweeps who shall remain nameless, and it said ‘@skatronixxx you’re (even more) famous, 2nd tweet down’. Now waking up half groggy at 3am I was like oh it must be spam! Unfortunately I to am subjected to the usual twitter spam i.e. ‘see what this person has been saying about you’. Normally I ignore them but I hestinatly clicked on the URL ( http://metro.co.uk/2015/02/18/breaking-burger-king-is-trialling-a-delivery-service-in-parts-of-the-uk-5068781/ ) as I saw it was from ‘The Metro’. Now for my tweeps who live abroad, The Metro is a free newspaper that is given out to commuters on buses and at train stations, I quite like it for a free paper, so I thought hmm why not!

My mind was racing, what had they found out about me (guilty conscience)? Am I finally getting the recognition I deserve? Was it a wanted poster? Am I the most wanted cyber criminal or as one of my good friends put it last night ‘Skatronixxx is the housewives favourite’, have I become a pin up for the middle aged and elderly? *shudders*  When I clicked on the link I was greeted with a story about Burger King! Yes Burger King!! Hmm why was I mentioned in a story about Burger KIng? Did they find out that I am the most loyal customer of Burger King and hate thier rival McDonalds and wanted to crown me ‘Skatronixxx The King Of Burger King’? Well that would be a lie I do occasionally go to Maccy D’s but onlu when they have thier specials on other than that I’m 100% Burger King.

The headline read ‘Breaking: Burger King is trialling a delivery service in parts of the Uk’, then it clicked I had heard about this a couple of days ago, prior to The Metro finding out and had put a photo I saw of a Burger King delivery guy floating around on my Twitter account. I read and scrolled through the article thinking what will this journalist say about me and then BAM my tweet had be featured, under the tagline ‘These Guys Are Ahead Of The Game’. Thank you Alison Lynch why yes I am ahead of the game, but alas I am not in the area for Burger kIng delivery so it’s a 3 mile trip down the road for Mr Skatronixxx 😥

Now as for the logisitcs of a burger delivery, I have a few questions, how can you not eat the fries whilst in transit? How do you stop the filling from falling out? How do you make sure that your burger does not become a meaty gelantinous goop, although I for one would still eat it? You have intruged me Burger King and helped get me some free publicity, what have you done for me lately MCDonalds? One time I eat there you left the bottom of my burger, one question how???

Well that’s been the roller coaster of my morning so far, it may not be much to some people but I found it pretty cool, and hought I’d share this with you.

—– UPDATE —–

Since I got back from work I’ve found requests from The Daily Mail and ITV news wanting to use my tweet in a story regarding the Burger King deliveries!

You can see me in the Daily Mail story here http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-2959807/Burger-King-trials-delivery-service-eight-UK-locations.html

But alas I’m yet to hear from ITV News!

—– FURTHER UPDATE —–

I am now on the following websites:-

The Independent – http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/news/burger-king-delivery-chain-set-to-revolutionise-hangovers-by-bringing-burgers-to-your-door-10055788.html

Big News Netowrk – http://www.bignewsnetwork.com/index.php/sid/230408049

Magnate – http://magnate.co/food/burger-king-just-launched-home-delivery-service/

Lad Bible – http://www.theladbible.com/articles/burger-king-are-now-doing-deliveries-in-the-uk

Sick Chirpse – https://www.sickchirpse.com/burger-king-delivery-service/

Complex – http://uk.complex.com/pop-culture/2015/02/burger-king-launched-delivery-uk

The Daily Edge – http://www.dailyedge.ie/burger-king-delivery-service-1947321-Feb2015/

Buzz Feed – http://www.buzzfeed.com/ailbhemalone/oh-my-god-burger-king-now-deliver-in-the-uk#.uwzBByvajv

Lockerdome – https://lockerdome.com/6170051602554945/7429335208441364

Breitbart – http://www.breitbart.com/news/burger-king-launches-delivery-service-in-the-u-k/

Trends – http://trends.ng/breaking-burger-king-is-trialling-a-delivery-service-in-parts-of-the-uk/

247 Bulletin – http://247bulletin.co.uk/burger-king-trials-delivery-service-website-for-fast-food-fans/

Republishan – http://www.republishan.com/e/7881424365201741/Burger-King-delivery-service-trialled-in-eight-UK-locations

Tech789.com – http://tech789.com/voto-latino-meet-the-final-innovation-challenge-12/

Svit Srichka – http://svit.strichka.com/item/21639844

Howproblemsolution.com – http://help.howproblemsolution.com/1781329/prepare-for-maximum-lazyness-burger-king-are-now-doing-deliveries-in-the-uk

Daily Mail – http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-2959807/Burger-King-trials-delivery-service-eight-UK-locations.html

The Metro – http://metro.co.uk/2015/02/18/breaking-burger-king-is-trialling-a-delivery-service-in-parts-of-the-uk-5068781/

The Truth 24.com – http://thetruth24.com/article/129810/burger-king-delivery-chain-set-to-revolutionise-hangovers-by-bringing-burgers-to-your-door

 Wow so I’m now on 19 news websites, you gotta admit that is pretty damn cool, however it’s also kinda amusing that only the Daily Mail contacted me to ask if they could use my tweet. It just goes to show, be careful what you could post as it could be seen by anyone, anywhere but on the plus side, woop go me!!!

A He-Man reboot for 2015

 Who remembers this classic from the 1980’s?

A lot of films and tv shows have been remade or ‘rebooted’ over the years as Hollywood loses it’s originality and churns up old ideas from our childhood for a new generation to get attached to. Some names that spring to mind are Transformers, TMNT, The Chronicles of Narnia and endless (and endless) remakes or reboots of Batman. Some that haven’t been done are films and TV shows that could benefit from a ‘reboot’ so to speak such as Captain Planet, Toxic Crusaders, Attack Of The Killer Tomaotes the list is endless. For today’s piece I’m going to write about a cult classic that I feel would be ripe for a remake, and it’s not Marvel or DC! What could it be? Well the answer is simple I HAVE THE POWER!!!!!! Yes that’s right He-man!

 I HAVE THE POWER!!!!!!

I know right know some of you will be marking out in the style of WWE wrestler Daniel Bryan going ‘ Yes Yes Yes’ whereas some of you may be going He-Man? Is that a male stripper? Well for those of you that don’t know He-Man was a TV series that was around in the mid to late 1980’s it basically revolved around Prince Adam and his ability to take a glass of man up juice and become He-Man to kick his arch nemesis’s Skeletor’s ass. Think Popeye with mythical creatures and evil baddies, minus the annoyance of Olive Oil. Yes that’s right I compared He-Man to Popeye, I went there. Who is Skeletor? Well quite simply he is half man, half skeleton he is Skeletor! Now I know some of you may be going that doesnt sound scary but trust me, him and Mumm Ra (From Thundercats) were two of the most terrifying cartoon baddies for anyone aged between 29-34 growing up. If you don’t believe me, go visit YouTube after reading this article I’ll be proved right.

So why do I think He-Man would be a good candidate for a remake or reboot? Well it’s simple really, cult classics are in and I feel that He-Man although the obviously cliched 1980’s sounding name may need a twerk (no NOT the Miley Cyrus kinda twerk) all the elements are there for it to be a big success. People my age are now at the age where we have young children and what better way to introduce your child to the things you love then doing it through a modern version of it. I know if Skatronixxx Jr was a little bit older we would have seen Transformers or Batman at the cinema but that is a long way down the line.

I think the best way to work this article would be by a quick break down of the key characters from the original movie and give ideas on who I think would be ideal candidates for the roles this time around.

He-Man/Prince Adam

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He-Man’s main power was superhuman strength, he was once described as the ‘most powerful man in the unvierse’ however if he is He-Man for too long he’ll revert to his alter ego of Prince Adam. He rarely however resorts to combat and only uses it as a last resort and prefers to outwit and outsmart his foes. For me the choice was simple and in a remake of He-Man I’d have THE ROCK playing him. Why The Rock, well to be honest as He-Man is strong you need a muscly character who is adaptable and also able to play the intelligent role, for me The Rock is the only logical choice here. As for Prince Adam? Well I’d still have The Rock but use the same effects they used on Chris Evans in Captain America to make him look smaller than he actually is. I know some people may say what about Channing Tatum? Well I have a role lined up for him later 😉

Skeletor

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Skeletor was depicted as a muscular blue humanoid figure. His main power was his mystical abilities and sorcery, he was also able to teleport himself, send telepathic commands to his minions and grow plants (yes grow plants!). He was also known for having an evil cackling piercing laugh that would strike fear into the heart of many children. For me this choice was quite trickier, I initially thought Tom Hardy but was unsure as to wether he would fit the role. I eventually settled on one of geekdoms most favourite son’s BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH. Why BC? Well why not? Yeah I know you are probably thinking but Skeletor has to be muscly, BC isn’t! Well does he really have to be muscly? In my version I’d prefer to have Skeletor make the most of his mystical sorcery powers and who better than BC? Think of Sherlock but evil, that would be gold right?

Sorceress

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Sorceress is the person who gives He-Man his powers she is known for being wise and is considered the most powerful spell caster on Eternia. Again this was a hard choice to pick but I decided to go with EVA MENDES. Why Eva Mendes, well I was stuck with who to pick with this one but I think she’ll be good as the wise head amongst the younger colleagurs. Yes I know she’ll be one of the youngest amongst the cast but hey if you can make The Rock look skinny I;m sure you can make Eva look slightly older. As for her portrayal, think Halle Berry’s ‘Storm’ in X-Men.

Teela

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Teela is the captain of the Royal guard and responsible for protecting Prince Adam, she assists him in battle but is completely unaware the Adam and He-Man are one in the same. For this character you would need someone who is quick, athletic and not afraid to kick arse. Although Jennifer Lawrence may be the obvious choice for this one I decided to go with ALEXANDRA DADDARIO. Now I know you’ll be going WHO??? When I tell you her most famous film role I know some of you will know her and agree with me completely. AD was fesity kickass Anna Beth in the Percy Jackson series. Who better to play the role of Teela than someone with experience within a current role and as for why I didn’t pick Jennifer Lawrence? I didn’t want the remake and casting to be too obvious and went with characters who I thought for me would be good fits like those mentioned before.

Man-At-Arms

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Man-At-Arms is a character who is battle hardy and Teela’s dad. For this I needed someone old enough to play the part but still look hard enough to kick ass and for this role I chose none other than MICKEY ROURKE. Why Mickey Rourke? Why not? He’s battle hardy and has the scars to prove it, is tough enough to play the role and a believable age to be AD’s father for me this choice was simple.

Ram Man

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For me this is the choice that I feel CHANNING TATUM would be ideal for. Ram Man is a dimwitted, tough as nails warrior with a heart of gold. Who better than CT? I feel he’d truly excel in this supporting cast role alongside Mickey Rourke as Man-At-Arms, now who wouldn’t pay to see that duo kickass?

Cringer/Battle Cat

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Cringer is the cowardly lazy, often over eating companion of Prince Adam (think Garfield the cat and you got Cringer). When He-Man transforms into He-Man he brings Cringer with him transforming this cowardly cat into his fierce alter ego of Battle Cat. For me I chose to pick the character based on what he could bring to the role as Cringer rather than Battle Cat and although for some it may be an obvious answer to go with Seth McFarlane for me it has to be the other Seth the one and only SETH ROGEN. I feel that Seth Rogen would be awesome as Cringer and would be able to bring his uniqueness to the role like only he can. If you’re not sure on this, just watch a clip of Seth Rogen on YouTube and imagine him as a cowardly cat with your eyes shut, I dare you!

Beast Man

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Beast Man is pretty much what he say he’s a beast who’s also a man, think Sabretooth from X-Men, this one is so obvious no further comments are needed other than RON PERLMAN.

Mer-Man

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Mer-man is an aquatic king of a species that inhabits the sea of Eternia. This character would rely highly on special effects and again like above the choice for this role is obvious. Who better to pay the random Mer-Man than the versatile king of random characters than the one and only ANDY SERKIS. Think about it Gollum but aquatic, it just fits no further explanation is needed!

Evil-Lyn

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Evil-Lyn is the only female member of Skeletors’ gang of warriors, she’s a combination of brains, beauty and a fiery determination. Evil-Lyn is also secertly plotting to usurp Skeletor and take over his gang. Who better to play this mix of beauty and brains than the ANGELINA JOLIE, yes I know it may be cliché given her outing in Disney’s Maleficent but who wouldn’t want to see her play that kind of role but alongside Benedict Cumberbatch as the one and only Skeletor?

Right that’s my casting for the hypothetical He-Man reboot, I hope you like the choices, I know that each one of you may have your own opinions but hopefully that’s what this article is meant to do, get your creative brain juices flowing, who would you have as He-Man? Let me know now!