DVD Review: Marvel Knights: Astonishing X-Men BluRay
If you know about Marvel Knights, then you'll know that this Astonishing X-Men title is a motion comic, and not an animated series. That being said, this is the most animated motion comic I've see so far. It seems like pretty much every scene has some kind of movement in it. I don't know why they don't just turn it into a full fledged animated show. Budget and time restraints I suppose, but the stories in this one really could have benefited from some amazing animation. There are actually four stories that make up this release, all written by amazing Joss Whedon, and even though they're separate stories they each flow into the next.
- Gifted - When Dr. Kavita Rao develops a controversial mutant cure, the X-Men once again find themselves battling against science, prejudice and a mysterious new alien foe!
- Dangerous - The tragic death of a student at the Xavier Institute reveals that a powerful enemy is working from inside the mansion to destroy the X-Men: an enemy who knows all of their weaknesses and can predict their every move.
- Torn - Emma Frost’s erratic behavior has the X-Men spinning in a nonstop downward spiral. Will an unlikely union be the final straw? Plus: The X-Man destined to destroy the Breakworld stands revealed!
- Unstoppable - The X-Men are off to protect the Earth from its destruction at the hands of the Breakworld. And when it’s all over, nothing will ever be the same!
I think my favorite of the four was probably Dangerous, as the villian was a total surprise and such a great idea and there were scenes that I totally didn't expect and were totally stunned by. I'm trying not to give anything away which kinda makes it tough to go into details. The artwork is nice and looks like a graphic novel, and I know the artwork wouldn't look nearly as cool if this were made into an animated series instead of a motion comic... but still, I would prefer the animation. As it stands though, it's still worth watching for the great stories.
Extra features include an interview with Joe Quesada and Neal Adams, which is entertaining but short, and a behind-the-scenes look at Marvel Knights Animation which was also interesting. But I was disappointed that there was no interview with Joss Whedon. Though I shouldn't be too picky, because the extras they do have are good, and they have other insignificant extras like a gallery and music video, and you get like 5 hours worth of entertainment so it's not a bad release by any means.
Press Release: Marvel Knights: Astonishing X-Men BluRay
MARVEL KNIGHTS ANIMATION PRESENTS
THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS
THUNDERS ONTO HOME ENTERTAINMENT SHELVES NATIONWIDEOWN IT ON DVD SEPTEMBER 13, 2011 FROM SHOUT! FACTORY
Get ready to experience one of THOR’s most popular stories in comic history through cutting edge animation and captivating storylines when Marvel Knights Animation’s THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS debuts for the first time on DVD shelves nationwide on September 13, 2011 from Shout! Factory, in association with Marvel Knights Animation.
Inspired by the acclaimed graphic novel from Robert Rodi and Esad Ribic, THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS takes a powerful look inside the minds of Thor and Loki, two adversarial brothers in the mystical land of Asgard and seemingly forever enemies. But just why does Loki hate his brother Thor? And could it be that this master of mischief isn’t really the villain he’s been branded? Loki’s insatiable lust for power and his feud with Thor take on new meaning in this resonant epic.
A must have for loyal fans, comic book enthusiasts and collectors, Marvel Knights Animation presentation of THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS DVD is packed with insightful bonus content and graphic rich cover, plus a unique replica of comic book-style plastic sleeve that bridges the comic book to DVD concept. Marvel Knights Animation THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS is priced to own at $14.97. You’ll never see the world of THOR same way again!
Marvel Knights Animation THOR & LOKI: BOOD BROTHERS is produced by Ruwan Jayatilleke, written by Robert Rodi, art by Esad Ribic.
Marvel Knights Animation remains true to the heritage of panel-by-panel graphic storytelling, boasting groundbreaking illustrations, sensational soundscapes, and of course, the explosiveness of the Mighty Marvel Universe.Behind every image and every word lies the genius of Marvel’s celebrated creators like Robert Rodi, Esad Ribic, Brian Michael Bendis, Alex Maleev, Joss Whedon, Reginald Hudlin, John Romita Jr, Warren Ellis, Adi Granov, John Cassaday, and more.
THOR & LOKI: BLOOD BROTHERS Synopsis
The great halls of Asgard have fallen silent since a new king has overtaken the throne. His name is Loki, son of almighty Odin, brother to the Thunder God, Thor. Once a powerful trickster — the God of Mischief — Loki now rules a grand kingdom with little regard for its subjects. His only thoughts are focused inward, toward the origins of his own pain and suffering. To quell his torment and to gain the respect he feels he so rightfully deserves, Loki must now execute the prisoner chained deep within the dungeons of Asgard, the one man who has ever shown him love. His own brother.
DVD Special Features Include:
- An exclusive look back with writer Robert Rodi and Artist Esad Ribic
- Behind the scenes of Thor & Loki: Blood Brothers
- Trailer
Total Feature Running Time: +/- 72 Minutes