Author Archives: Andrew B

Revisiting Batman v Superman (Ultimate Edition Blu-Ray Release)

maxresdefaultI wanted to like this move. I really did. In fact, I wanted to love it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be. Don’t get me wrong, I found it entertaining and seeing Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman on the big screen together, well, the geek in me was doing back flips. The problem was they attempted to push in about four movies’ worth of character development into one film and somehow made it painstakingly slow. How do you do that? Overwhelm someone with information while also making it feel like things are unfolding underwater? You can read MBP’s thoughts here in our email throwdown.

As Batman V Superman became a punchline for everything that sucks about DC in the DC vs. Marvel battle of comic blockbusters, there were rumors of an extended addition of the film that covers up some of the rough spots of the cinematic release. Optimistic of the additional scenes as well as the R rating of the Ultimate Edition, I took a leap of faith and purchased the Blu Ray. Here are some quick items of note that changed in the Ultimate Edition: Continue reading

KD to the Warriors: The Legacy of LeBron

Kevin-Durant-Golden-State-Warriors-I want that Game 7 back so bad. Like, in a very painful, gut-wrenching, throw myself through a wall type of way. But KD coming to the Warriors, that helps about as much as anything can. In fact, if the Warriors can pull it off and become a multi-championship dynasty, I will gladly give up the 73-9 dream season – I love KD. But right now, I still want Game 7 back. Moving on…

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Trade Review: Ibaka and the KD Question

iLast night the Thunder traded Serge Ibaka to the Orlando Magic for Victor Oladipo, Ersan Illyasova, and the 11th Pick in the draft, Domantas Sabonis. While I was initially apprehensive of the Thunder shopping Ibaka, this trade helps provide the Thunder with more salary flexibility as Steven Adams looks prime for his raise, and it was clear that Ibaka was growing unhappy with his role. With the ability to walk next year, I think OKC ended up making the right decision and it surprises me that Orlando gave up so much for a guy they might be renting for a year. Continue reading

Review: The Night Manager

BannerIf you missed it while it was airing on AMC I’d very quickly hop on Amazon and pay the $15 to purchase this six episode mini-series. With an incredible cast, a well-paced story, and beautiful backdrops, The Night Manager has been one of the more engaging television experiences I’ve had in quite some time. It has also further solidified my love for the magnificent Hugh Laurie and further strengthened Tom Hiddleston’s case for being one of the most talented actors currently on screen. MILD SPOILERS AHEAD. Continue reading

Netflix Nugget – Voltron Legendary Defender

Voltron BannerA few weeks ago Dreamworks and Netflix released all eleven episodes of the inaugural season of Voltron: Legendary Defender. Growing up in the 80s and 90s, I loved Voltron. It was less for the show itself and more for the cool toy from Japan as well as the concept of five smaller robots combining together to make one larger one. I detested the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers because I felt like Voltron was the original multi-piloted giant robot and it pissed me off that it had been so blatantly ripped off. Interestingly enough, both Voltron and the Power Rangers could technically be considered rip-offs of a far less popular Japanese show called Super Sentai. Now as an adult, I’m far less emotional about the issue but Voltron still holds a special spot in my heart. When I learned of this reboot, I was immediately drawn to the show. As per usual, SPOILERS AHEAD. Continue reading

NBA Finals: It’s Over

LeBron's joyful weeping made the Dubs loss less painful. A huge weight is lifted off this man's shoulders.

LeBron’s joyful weeping made the Dubs loss less painful. A huge weight is lifted off this man’s shoulders.

That was a great finish. Unfortunately for me, the wrong team won. But both teams came out and for the first time in these Finals, we had a close game. I remember the moment I knew the Warriors just didn’t have it. When LeBron chased down Andre Iguodola’s lay-up, I texted a friend of mine, “that’s game.” The score was still tied but you could see the writing on the wall. A few minutes later, LeBron was crying on the floor, celebrating the Cavs’ first NBA championship. How did the Cavs take down the 73-9 juggernaut, here are what I think are key elements to the Cavs historic comeback: Continue reading

NBA Finals: How LeBron Gained Control of the Finals

20593077-mmmainLeBron is amazing to watch. Even when he’s killing my team I can’t help but marvel at how good a basketball player he is. His shooting is better, his passes are on point, and his defense is intimidating. But it’s how smart he is, how aware, that sets him apart from his peers. Continue reading

NBA Finals: Your Finals MVP is LeBron James

2016-NBA-Finals-678x381At this point in the NBA Finals, it should be obvious: LeBron James is the MVP. Steph Curry was the best player during the regular season but a locked-in LeBron James is still the most dominant force in the NBA. The Cavs have an uphill climb to win their first title but even if they come up short (but count a LeBron-led team out at your peril) LeBron should be declared the MVP. He should have been MVP last year and he should be even more so this year. Last year is said and done but let’s build the argument for this year: Continue reading

NBA Finals: Thoughts from Game 5

OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 13: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers celebrates with teammate Kyrie Irving #2 after defeating the Golden State Warriors in Game 5 of the 2016 NBA Finals with a score of 112 to 97 at ORACLE Arena on June 13, 2016 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

The head was right, the heart was wrong. The Cavs, riding two of the most exhilarating Finals performances in NBA history from LeBron James and Kyrie Irving, stole the game and the celebration from Oracle Arena last night. However, if I’m the Warriors, I don’t start panicking. They are still up 3-2 and have won convincingly in Cleveland as recently as last Friday. Also, as poorly as they played, they were still down only six points with an opportunity to win late in the fourth. Here are some observations from game 5 and what they mean for game 6. Continue reading