When I watched each episode, I was so excited. Even though the episodes weren’t brilliant when viewed individually instead of part of a whole, the score was brilliant.

There have been complaints that the themes were rehashing the ones used in previous seasons. This was the culmination of the past 3 years of whoniverse events! Ideas are recycled as Davies successfully spins the series to a close.

The themes that were new – such as the Ood one – are worth a CD release. Even if they just release the part used in Journeys End as a single. That made me cry when listening to it; its one of my favourite themes used in both TV and on film.

This post is my plea. If anyone has news or goss on the impending, or lack thereof, release I would be so grateful.

Well, now I’ve read all the major storylines that interested me. What to do?

I detest reading issues on a monthly basis. The only one it really works for is ultimate spider-man. The arcs in other stories – including Secret Invasion – feel so contrived. They were written to raise sales and be part of a larger story that takes over the universe.

So I’m taking a complete break from comics. I will continue to read a few issues monthly, but not much more than that. I wont read large arcs, especially if they take over the whole universe, until they are available as a whole.

I am leaning heavily towards DC stuff at the moment, because they seem to have better stories – even if you have to wait. I love Vertigo stuff. I think my main problem is at Marvel.

I think that my expectations are different because I started with anime and manga. Oh well – at least I’m calmer about Brand New Day and Spider-man. Is that worth reading anymore?

It had been that long since the past episode, so I had completely forgotten what it was about. This episode totally blew my mind. It had the creaky sound effects that sent shivers down my spine everytime Cameron moved.

I’d seen and loved the films, but the episode took the concept to a whole new level. It established several character conflicts while leaving you literally on the edge of your chair, wondering how the episode could resolve itself in 45 minutes. Summer was truely terrifying.

It really helped me understand the facets behind the characters. I struggled identifying with characters in a film older than myself so the series – with its updated tech – gives the concept this huge sense of believability.

I can’t wait to see what great episodes come out over the coming weeks. Hopefully the strike improved a lot of them.

Anyhoo fortunately I had all the content saved – it didn’t take off on hubpages – so was able to pop it all back on here.

I’m doing a lot of work on other blog projects so this will be a personal blog. I’ve had months to catch up on stuff so I’m no longer naive about comics and sci fi – I get it now.

I’ll be discussing random stuff with geeky undertones: comics, anime, manga, sci fi. Whatever makes me want to shout to the world about it.

I know no-one particular cares this blog has returned to the blogosphere, but its important to me!

Nyman isn’t usually associated with science-fiction scores; his emphasis on minimalism seeming to contradict the complex narratives. The thematic and tempo variations are barely present, rather, his musical focus is on themes embedded in allegory. By ignoring the conventions associated with the genre he is emphasizing that Gattaca’s premise isn’t dystopian, instead showing how progression could change the nature of relationships. The film is a contradiction of themes, a world where artificiality is considered natural. Nyman stresses this through his score where the oxymoronic irony of using poignantly hopeful notes is represented through filters, setting up the paradoxical themes of natural artificiality.

This is especially so in ‘The Departure’, where the melody is the same as ‘The Arrival’ with changes only to tempo and note length. In ‘The Arrival’ the arrangement emphasizes Vincent’s hope, whereas ‘The Departures’ emphasis is on Vincent and Jerome’s catharsis. Niccol stated that ‘Film music is best when… it can convey both hope and sorrow in the same composition.’ In ‘The Departure’, violins create this contrast, as they are generally used to gain empathy. In both tracks, The ‘Arrival’ and ‘Departure’, Nyman manages to raise that empathy, yet in ‘The Departure’ it conveys hope using the same diatonics. The emotional contradiction highlights the films message of it being a homily of metaphors leading to Vincent’s ascendancy.

All the tracks from the flashback sequence, including ‘The Arrival’, relate to memories attached to Vincent’s original identity which is reflected by Nymans adoption of a surreal tone through instrumental manipulation and greater thematic variations. The slightly more up tempo ‘becoming Jerome’ builds on the mocking tenor established in ‘The Arrival’, while the dream-like drawn out string segments in ‘Gods Hands’ echo the religious faith his parents quickly forfeited. The soft music and comparative lighting during the sequence implies humanity, a stark contrast to Gattaca’s interiors.

Surprisingly, the score doesn’t break off and form the triumphant finale expected after a theme has been continuously building, especially after obstacles have been overcome and adversity beaten. Yet ‘The Departure’, multi-layered not only in string use but also in themes raised, closes the film by reminding the audience that while it is the conclusion of Vincent’s and Jerome’s dream, it is not the conclusion of social problems. The drawn out string segments, the piano chords more dominant than in ‘The Arrival’ and the wavering first note seemingly torn between themes form the emotive climax of Gattaca.

The oxymoronic use of filters and orchestration reaffirm the themes raised. While gold filters were applied to scenes of ‘cold warmth’ associated to the lack of compassion, they were also used in ‘The Departure’ to symbolize the humanity of Lamar’s support. The first note of ‘The Departure’ confirms Vincent’s gratitude, and the lighting during that scene emphasizes the scores, and films, purpose. The thematic antithesis of blue associated with inhumanity, and affectionate gold leading towards the green filters confirm that it’s a combination of both qualities, genetic identity and determination, that leads to fulfillment.

Like the filters, the orchestration serves a dual purpose. The score is dominantly violin; therefore the variations have to exist subtly, as do the variations within the movie. Nyman works off this by adjusting note length, timing and accompanying instruments. A prime example is ‘Irene and the Morrow’, where the brass accompaniment symbolizes the contradictions existing in the love narrative. Likewise ‘The Departure’, the lighting also works off the paradox, as exemplified during the sunrise scene. Sunrises are generally romantic, but the light reflecting off the solar panels confirms that the basis off their love is (initially) artificial.

Contrasted to this theme is first track and opening title, ‘The Morrow.’ Consisting of merely rising and falling patterns of the same four cues with little variation in note length or instrumentation, it deceptively leads the audience to expect little more than those cues adjusted to fit the different tones of Gattaca. Fortunately this track only serves to establish the timbre of the body as the identifier, recurring only in scenes where genetics are fore-grounded. Yet this emphasizes the system’s deceptive aspects, with blue filters reinforcing the harshness of their ideals.

The repetition and lack of instrumental variation have caused critics to comment that the score is almost meaningless, lacking ‘identifiable and interesting themes, nice melodies and an elaborate instrumentation.’ At a superficial level this is true as the score stresses the minimalist style by not straying from the main cues. However, while Nyman’s score mostly comprises of slow tempo strings and soft brass; variations in theme are present and manage to convey two emotions in one note.

‘Impromptu for 12 fingers’ works on multiple levels in relation to Gattaca. Initially it serves to juxtapose the concert and investigation; the increasing urgency highlighting the rising tension within both narratives. The Irony is within the piece itself and separate from filtering. The extra harmonies build on Gattaca’s premise of being an artificially natural society, yet raises a different argument. All that has changed is the perception of a visually unaltered future, a retrospective enamored in a cultural past. It highlights the films central concern that society will be changed so drastically that this perception will be reality. Contrasted to the simple emotive chording for ‘The Departure’, this track metaphorically raises the argument ‘has society really improved?’ The extra harmonies, which are an octave higher, detract from the haunting tone of Schubert’s piece, rather than improve original genius.

The cinematography within the film caters for two purposes: the paradox and mystery narrative. Green filters serve as part of the film noir camera work, as well as the blending of beliefs. Likewise, Nyman’s score caters for the mystery genre through greater variation and quicker tempo in his suspense cues. The notes are often repetitious, yet shorter, track 19 exemplifies this. Nyman emphasizes the rising tension by going a note higher each beat during the initial eight, then in the next 8 going an octave higher. This cue is repeated, but at a higher tempo and with increasing urgency to reflect the trepidation.

Those seeking a score similar to Nyman’s ‘The Piano’ will be disappointed as the nuances are more subtle in Gattaca, although hearing ‘The Piano’ gives the listener a better understanding of its hidden meanings. I would highly recommend it to those who like modern minimalist works or want a science-fiction score with substance.

Marvel is just sticking to its brand promises.

I remember the excitement of reading some of Stan Lees earlier work. It was fun, fresh and pure escapism. Marvel has always been the funkier of the two by printing what the audience demands. I know I’ve enjoyed seeing some of the males in various states of undress, no matter how unattainable their body shapes.

Males are equally out of proportion in the Marvel Universe

This image was taken from the latest Ultimate Spider-Man issue. Iceman is far more unrealistic than Liz. While both are too thin, Liz at least has some definition to her body.

Liz has enough curves to make her realistic. Iceman looks completely out of whack in comparison. Yet while reading Ultimates, I haven’t really cared what the characters look like. I read it because awesome story lines transcend any perceived body issue flaws.

I’ve noticed many features in the Ultimate Universe are either over exaggerated, or under defined. In the first few issues, MJ had a large head in comparison to her body.

In Japan, women are under weight in manga

Look at Rei in the opposite picture. Her legs are too long and her waist is too narrow. This is typical of most manga where girls frequent the pages in their short skirts.

Adding sexuality to fictional characters doesn’t have to be offensive. If viewed as a crucial part of the medium, it can actually contribute to the positive interpretation of a title.

Entire anime titles such as Please Twins and DearS are overly sexualized yet both the sexes are turned into objects. I don’t look at these characters and want to attain their unhealthy bodies, nor do I want to look like Barbie.

One of the comments on Seans post said

” Fortunately, the unnatural physiques found in Marvel comics are countered by the more realistic proportions from D.C. and other publishers. The many impressionable young women reading super hero comics have much better models for appropriate body-image in Supergirl, Catwoman and, obviously, Power Girl.”

I agree that its good to have realistic role models, but people choose what aspects of people they want to idolize. In Spider-man, its MJ’s willing to sacrifice and inner strength. I don’t get the urge to suddenly try and become a super model.

Marvel comics is evolving – perhaps our views should too.

This is yet another image from Ultimate Spider-man #119. I’ve noticed that nakedness is a lot more frequent than in the general titles. Often this happens in humorous situations.

Many aspects of their style has changed over the past 50 years. In some titles theirs less dialogue and manga inspired drawings.

Conclusion

Character weight is not the only aspect that is unrealistic in comics. We choose what we want to take out of the reading experience. Their weight exists in a fictional inked world. This world is open to our interpretation.

New content channels have been introduced at Nerd in High Heels. The channels are as follows:

• Comics
• Scores
• Anime
• 1001 films to see before you die
• Sci fi

This allows readers to only view the posts in a nerdy topic relevant to them. The home site shall remain for miscellaneous ramblings.

Please be patient as further site bugs are being worked out.

The latest issue was brilliant. Why can’t they have Ultimate Spidey published thrice monthly instead?

It somewhat makes Amazing Spider-Man superflous. USM is more daring, and fun. They should have just left this title for the younger spider-fans and left the MU the way it was

“It’s amazing to me that no matter how long I’m in this business, the fans can always surprise me. Not that they’re upset about the end of the Spider-marriage–no, that I expected. But the fact that you guys in general are so mad that you’ll pick at any possibility for a fight, sling any insult at any person whether they’re involved with the book or not, throw around hyperbole so bombastic that it would make Stan Lee himself blush, and just generally be looking so desperately hard for reasons to vent your ire took me completely aback.”

Tom Brevoort, in Blah Blah Blog.

Harsh words, buddy.

Brevoort later went on to say this, which precisely sums up my feelings:

“This is a break-up, a funeral for something that you loved. It’s grief and pain, funneled into rage. ”

Why am I so Upset?

The revelation in Civil War was what I believed to be one of the greatest moments in comics. Despite knowing about it happening, my jaw still dropped. I’m angered that this was undone – though as its not directly related to MJ, perhaps it could still be undone.

When reading Civil War, I knew I was reading comic genius. The storyline was daring and opened the way for brilliant stories in the MU. It feels like they have taken the easy way out. I wouldn’t have objected if they had allowed Peter Parkers revelation to complete its arc.

After reading Friendly Neighbourhood Spiderman, I felt somewhat better that the minor storylines had been tied regarding how the school, and press, would react. Yet I still feel cheated – the Spidey universe had the chance to really change and really show off great writing/drawing.

For me Mephisto seemed a cop out. I had no idea who the heck he was and to be, it didn’t appear to be a good story. Possibly due to Queseda and JMS, or other things. It may have been more interesting to have an extra issue explaining their future.

I accept the break up of the MJ/Spidey marraige.

From what I’ve read the marraige was a rush. Divorcing wouldn’t have worked – even if ultimately it was for his safety. The very reasons for divorce – so no-one could hurt the one he loved – would ruin the chance for future relationships.

I accept that the marraige aspect of Spider-man had to be removed. I do understand the reasons. I also understand that by doing it this way, it opens up ways for new romantic characters to be introduced to the Spider-Man Mythos.

The marraige couldn’t be eradicated in other ways that would have allowed for a easy tie up. This could have wrecked the flow.

What about the ultimate Universe?

The ultimate universe existed where there was both the carefree Peter and the Adult Peter with a child. Why not somehow provide a happy medium between the two?

One of the options offered was that for those who wanted to see a grown up Peter, there was the Spider-girl title.

While that does allow for some mature storylines, the stories are still focused on the core of Spider-man: Maturation. In this case however, its their daughter who is finding her identity. We don’t see much of Peter finding his upon retirement.

I admit to LOVING the current Ultimate Spider-man series. I devoured the whole book and will continue to read it – MJ or no MJ.

How could this be fixed?

I don’t care if they continue this storyline as long as they somehow complete the Civil War arc. During the F.N Spider-man stories, I was crying and cheering as he confronted those who didn’t know about his identity.

My fantasy involved Spider-man going slowly insane as a result of the Aunt May shooting. Whether Aunt May died or not, this could have the potential to really showcase some great comic book writing.

In this imagining, he was placed in a mental hospital as a result of PTSD. As part of his treatment, the treating doctor removes his memory of his aunt and wife.

There could be some great repurcussions down the track but at least he could have had the option of regaining his memory as they explored some great story arcs. Instead, we get a close up of Parker giving JJJ mouth to mouth.

In Conclusion:

It was easy to ignore the history I haven’t yet read, hold back the anger at discrediting the minor story lines I had.

I am new to the marvel universe and got into Spider-man because of the movies. As such, I wasn’t overly attached to MJ. In the movies, I was tiring of her rather quickly and would have loved for Spidey to hook up with a fresher character.

There are, and will be, great mini series that will explore these issues in depth – if the audience demands it.

I hope the new direction is strong enough to make the minor faults, and great story-lines missed, worth it.

I will still be reading Amazing Spider-man. I am confident that Marvel will do what they think is best for the long term propspects of a series. I’m reading some of the great storylines in the other titles and hope that BND soon comes up to par.

This was a fascinating read. A modern interpretation of two classics. A simple change of the times could affect history so drastically.

To discuss it in depth is difficult due to the many differences in the timeline. It has showed, even if in retrospect, how perceptions have changed since that time.

Highly recommended. I rarely read DC and struggled through many Superman titles. This intrigued me.