Who Watched the Watchmen?

[Oeaks]

I just got back from watching Watchmen and I'm really not sure what to say about it. There were some moments that made me go wow, but there were a few thing I wasn't happy about. Like the ending:What was wrong with the idea of an alien invasion? And why did Dan and Laurie leave at the end?

They got all the characters perfectly imo. Dr. Manhattan's monologue and Mars was perfect.

I guess it's the same as any other book to movie adaptation. There was just to much stuff to include. There were a lot of things a really wanted to see.

All in all, I'd still recommend it. If you have 2 and a half hours to kill, check it out. It's worth the watch.


So how about you guys?

[ShellShok]

Sounds like a good movie to me. I've actually never read the graphic novels so I don't really have expectations as to what content from the comics should be in it :D

I think I'll watch this while its still on circut, maybe even tomorrow!

[Kharrak]

It
was
****ing
spectacular

We were screaming with joy as the credits rolled.

We -knew- they changed the ending. The sub plot about developing the alien was just too much to fit into the movie. They told us this a while back. Besides, the ending they chose worked perfectly.

[Aequitas]

It
was
****ing
spectacular

We were screaming with joy as the credits rolled.

We -knew- they changed the ending. The sub plot about developing the alien was just too much to fit into the movie. They told us this a while back. Besides, the ending they chose worked perfectly.

Agreed.

I was blown away.
I must own the DVD.

[dislekcia]

This is the best movie ever.

If you disagree, we burn your face off.

[Oeaks]

It
was
****ing
spectacular

We were screaming with joy as the credits rolled.

We -knew- they changed the ending. The sub plot about developing the alien was just too much to fit into the movie. They told us this a while back. Besides, the ending they chose worked perfectly.

Ah that's true. It took me awhile afterward before I finally got the ending. I guess what I wanted was to see the graphic novel word for word. It was a really good adaptation of the movie though.


Anyway, I guess all that's left now is to watch it again.

In costume...

[Boggle24]

I knew they weren't going to fit the entire graphic novel in the movie and that they had to leave some things out, but I did think it was fantastic, I had never read the novels before, but I'm itching to do so now.

I loved Rorshach, I thought he was the best character in the movie :P

[pArkEr]

**** me. Saw it last night, was completely blown away!

Two complaints though: there was too much door-kicking, and too much sex scenes (one-and-a-half). Otherwise, **** me twice.

Anyone get the 300 reference? Oh, and I must say, I agree with Ozymandias, all for the greater good.

[P_ablo]

sorry we couldnt come oeaks...sounds like we missed out, though nicks mom wasn't playing nice, and apparently neither was zachs.

[Kensei]

It looks likely I will only see this on Wednesday :(

So I will ask these questions, Yes/No is fine :p

1. Is the ending the same as the graphic novel?
2. Did they include the scene with Dr Manhattan jumps between different times in his past and future?
3. Were the actors true to their graphic novel counterparts?

[Kharrak]

It looks likely I will only see this on Wednesday :(

So I will ask these questions, Yes/No is fine :p

1. Is the ending the same as the graphic novel?
2. Did they include the scene with Dr Manhattan jumps between different times in his past and future?
3. Were the actors true to their graphic novel counterparts?

1. Well, largely, yes, but the manner of how something was accomplished was different. As I said before, in the graphic novel, the set up sub-story for the finale (the people on the island, designing the creature) was too much to put into the film so they had to change it. What they used instead works just as well though.

2. Yes

3. Extremely.

[Isengard]

Going to go watch it in a short while so I'll refrain from reading anything spoiler-ish.

[FoX]

When I first saw this (the trailer) I got the meh vibe, I also got the meh vibe when I saw Dead Space for the first time (and look how that turned out) so now I'm ignoring this "meh vibe".

[pArkEr]

It's actually getting mixed reviews, according to wiki. Some are calling it the flop of 2009. Box office is telling a different story though.

[Miktar]

Rotten Tomatoes ain't worth ****, we all know it. Of course it's getting mixed reviews, it's a movie that requires intelligence - something American audiences can't stomach. They want spandex and tanks being blown up. :P

[GeometriX]

They want spandex and tanks being blown up. :P
Which is included in this film :p

I thought it was awesome; going out now to watch it a second time after seeing it earlier this week. I was worried that they'd generally pull their punches for the sake of PC but they didn't, every grimy bit was left intact (aside from the adaptation culling mentioned by others). Also, agreed - Rorschach was fantastic, not exactly how I imagined his mask shifting but it looked great nonetheless.

Now I just need to wait for the Black Frigate DVD.

[Domanskip]

Rotten Tomatoes ain't worth ****, we all know it. Of course it's getting mixed reviews, it's a movie that requires intelligence - something American audiences can't stomach. They want spandex and tanks being blown up. :P

Not sure I agree with you there.

Rotten Tomatoes doesn't rate 'American trash' highly. It take opinions from critics around the world and comes up with a round number. It's the most unbiased source imo.

That being said, critics themselves aren't the greatest source of opinion. I can understand why they would underrate Watchmen but I enjoyed it immensely my self.

Basically, I think it's unfair to completely discredit the site.

[James Donaldson]

For anyone who has seen the movie or read the graphic novel.

Saturday Morning Watchmen Cartoon

http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/485797

The subtle humour is brilliant, but you might want to overlook the Comedian mistake.

[Miktar]

Not sure I agree with you there.

Rotten Tomatoes doesn't rate 'American trash' highly. It take opinions from critics around the world and comes up with a round number. It's the most unbiased source imo.

That being said, critics themselves aren't the greatest source of opinion. I can understand why they would underrate Watchmen but I enjoyed it immensely my self.

Basically, I think it's unfair to completely discredit the site.

It's useless. Movie critics are worse than game critics. Unbiased source? Ha ha ha. Seriously, no.

[ShellShok]

Just watched it myself and I have to say I loved it! I've never actually read the graphic novel but I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything plot-wise. Now I have a desire to find every issue and read them :D

[Kharrak]

In a similar vein...

http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/485797

[ShellShok]

http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/485797


http://www.newgrounds.com/portal/view/485797

A bit late Kharrak :\

[Kharrak]

A bit late Kharrak :\

Ah dang.

Worst part? I found it by following that exact link xD

[KFC]

Red the comic. Twice. Loved it.
Looking forward to watching it, next week.
The fact that its made by Zack Snyder, is just pure awesomeness.
Glad to see that that issue with Fox got settled and the movie released :)

[Wesley]

This was easily the best movie I've seen in a long time. ZOMFG, must watch it again! I am definitely getting it on Blu-ray when it comes out.

Doc Manhattan = awesomely overpowered compared to everyone else.

[FreakKing]

I almost watched it today, but someone (a certain sister of mine) left the movie cards at home. So we didn't watch anything.

When I first saw the trailer on the NAG DVD I was like, what the hell? Then watched it again, then thought, interesting. Weeks later I watched it again, then thought, I NEED TO SEE THIS!
Now... I want to see watch it!

Maybe next week.

[James Donaldson]

Doc Manhattan = awesomely overpowered compared to everyone else

This is actually a sub-plot in the comics. Super heroes in the Watchmen world, were just guys in costumes doing their bit for Justice. After the accident that made Dr Manhatten, he became the first true super hero (because he can do anything) and made the others redundant.

[Cleric]

Isn't it just a single graphic novel? I saw it at Blackheathe centre.

[Inphidel]

Nope, there are twelve chapters. However, due to the movie, they're all been rereleased together in a hard cover form.

[James Donaldson]

^ No, it's a single graphic novel, it's been like that looooong before the movie was even announced. :S

[Inphidel]

Sure, but it was initially released on a monthly basis, in twelve parts.

[James Donaldson]

Maybe I mis-read, are you saying the seperate Chapters are being released in hardcover format?

[Inphidel]

I mean that they've recently (ie a few months ago) been rereleased, all together, in hardcover form, in anticipation of the film, and that they were initially published in chapters, not all together.

From last october (http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/12372.html)

Hmm, when I was looking for that link I noticed that another hardcover was released back in 2005, called Watchmen (Absolute Edition).

[James Donaldson]

It's been like that alot longer than 2005, actually since the 80's.

Here we go http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watchmen

So, it's been in Graphic Novel form since 87, the cover we know "happy face" is from the 95 release.

Sorry, I was just confused by you saying that all the chapters were being 'rereleased altogether', because that's the only way I've known them.

I believe that re-release is special ONLY in getting them with a Hardcover.

[Miktar]

Just got back from it. Perfect, and I like the changed ending to make it more contemporary. Looking forward to the director's cut.

[Ravurn]

Havent read the comic, but i did enjoy the movie, i enjoyed the style was nice and refreshing.
kinda reminds me of mark millers comics but thats just me judging from the movie

[Isengard]

I watched the Watchmen, I liked the Watchmen, next...

[Wesley]

So, does this give hope to other comic-to-movie adaptions? If any can be done as awesomely as this, then I'm all in! :D I wonder if this sets the bar for game-to-movie adaptions as well...



I mean that they've recently (ie a few months ago) been rereleased, all together, in hardcover form, in anticipation of the film, and that they were initially published in chapters, not all together.

Oooooooohhhhhhhh HHHHAAARRRDDD CCCOOOVVVEEERRR!!! I want! :drool:

[The_Q?]

Watched it & enjoyed it thoroughly. I'd skimmed bits of the comic previously (friend owns a copy), but I pretty much went in with no prior expectations.

Was thinking about going in costume as Doc Manhattan, but it pretty chilly :)

[Cleric]

I'm keen, but the amount of people that I've spoken to who hated it and found it boring is worrying. Maybe I need a change in company.

[theDamaged]

Ok I haven't read the novel(s), in fact I had never heard of Watchmen before this movies *gasp. I have to say this was a really good movie, maybe not the best I have ever seen but I put that down to not being a fanboy. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who I think has the intelligence to understand it.

What I really liked were the characters, yes they could do awesome stuff (loved the fight scene in the prison) but they were just humans with all their flaws and were not "goodies", I mean there were a couple that could quite easily have been on the wrong side of good in other super hero movies.

[Kharrak]

I'm keen, but the amount of people that I've spoken to who hated it and found it boring is worrying. Maybe I need a change in company.

Did they say why they found it boring, or why they hated it?

[Wesley]

I'm keen, but the amount of people that I've spoken to who hated it and found it boring is worrying. Maybe I need a change in company.

The Watchmen required a good imagination and a good degree of intelligence to understand and enjoy it. I had no previous knowledge of the Watchmen before seeing this movie, but now I'm going to buy the comic series as soon as I can find it.

Ironically enough, the movie also addresses the quirks and dark side of human nature, so again, its not for everyone. There's lots of blood, guts, and gore as well :D

[Cleric]

It sounds exactly like my type of movie. Just a sad indication of the current state of popular entertainment that it isn't getting great recognition. Gonna watch this friday.

[Gazza_N]

Watchmen is a deconstruction of superhero tropes. It's also the THEMES that make the story what it is, not necessarily the plot in itself (although the plot is excellent). I imagine that those who aren't familiar with the tropes it deconstructs or who take the movie at face value won't get what it's about, and dimiss it as boring/pointless.

[Wesley]

Watchmen is a deconstruction of superhero tropes. It's also the THEMES that make the story what it is, not necessarily the plot in itself (although the plot is excellent). I imagine that those who aren't familiar with the tropes it deconstructs or who take the movie at face value won't get what it's about, and dimiss it as boring/pointless.

There's also a lot of character formation using idea froms other character profiles from other comic series. Case in point: the Comedian. The butch, brash, and thoroughly aggressive person that he is, can be taken as human nature at its darkest, with no regrets and no conscience. His character is formed through the observation, by the writers, of other dark superheroes in print at the time. The Watchmen, therefore, should theoretically appeal to all comic fans because of the integration of character profiles and other topics not normally found in a graphic novel.

Plus, where else can you find a superhero who can tear tanks apart with his mind? :D

[MarryO+LewyG]

The Watchmen required a good imagination and a good degree of intelligence to understand and enjoy it.

You don't have to be a rocket scientist to get it, but prior background character knowledge is really helpful

O and

ozymandias best. hero. ever

[Kharrak]

Well, browsing through the humorous Metacritic reader-reviews, similar themes pop up.

People were uncomfortable with Dr Manhattan's full frontal nudity (read: glowing blue penis). A couple even going as far as to say that this was spilling homosexuality into the film, implying that Dr Manhattan, and other characters, were homosexual (I was laughing as I read this :P) Obviously a naked man means that he, everyone around him, and the person looking at him is gay :P

The sex scenes also bothered people, several claiming that the graphic novel did not contain that much sex (which is incorrect, the movie actually contains less sex scenes)

And then the violence... lots of great violence. Some of the best action I've seen, in my opinion :D.

It would seem that the people who are upset by these previous points, are those who are far to comfortable by how conservative and frightened media is these days. The movie hid nothing. It took straight from the graphic novel the nudity, the violence, and the sex, without sacrificing much due fears of public response. And I applaud that.

Others simply saw whom the characters in the film were referencing, and labeled them as rip-offs or unoriginal. (common one was "Dr Manhattan was just Silver Surfer).

In a similar vein to that, a LOT of people wanted a brainless action piece, and were unsettled with a film that required people to think, question, and analyze stereotypes. As such, people found it boring.

And then, there is the always evident humorous chorus of people who cry that the movie is a 100% adaptation of the comic, scenes and speech included, and those that cry that they changed the movie in the slightest.

Personally, I loved that the movie was so close to the source material. It would seem that that would be the best way to adapt... you were watching the comic, and that's what I (and others) wanted. As for the changes, as I've said before, they were necessary in light of the limited time frame the movie was shot in. The creators announced this to the public a long time ago, and the changes made sense, and were perfectly acceptable.

[Gazza_N]

Yeah, so just like we said on Friday - they'll be happy with Doc Manhattan graphically blowing people to mulch, but balk at the sight of nipples and penises, however tastefully included.

DoubleStandardsFail. :|

[Cleric]

So who's joining me at Rosebank this Friday night? Gonna drag the GF with. Chev, you keen?

[Aequitas]

I'm keen, but the amount of people that I've spoken to who hated it and found it boring is worrying. Maybe I need a change in company.

That may be wise. We had 11 gamers/geeks watching, and i everyone there loved it.


stuff about the movie


stuff about the movie

QFT!

[KimberlyK]

My boyfriend dragged me to this, and I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would.

It was pretty bizarre though (I've never read the comic or book or whatever it was).

I'm not a fan of violence (especially if it's gratuitous), but it really worked in this movie, and was really only graphic at the appropriate times (the darker undertones of Rorscharch's story, in particular).

Really well acted too. I was surprised they all took this project so seriously, since I, not knowing anything about the story the movie is based on, assumed it was going to be "just another superhero movie", and I expected the actors to follow suite, but I was pleasantly surprised. Well casted, well acted, very cleverly done. I didn't like some of the prosthetic effects though - the "Nixon" make-up, and the "old-lady" make-up for the girl's mother were both very unconvincing, but small niggles in an otherwise excellent production.

That blue guy sure is ripped. Reminded me of the statue of David, very sexy. xD

I liked this movie a lot, but it was long as hell, and it makes you feel it at times.

[Kensei]

I am looking forward to seeing this on Wednesday with my friends (hurray for 2 for 1 specials at the movies). It was funny that I actually read the graphic novel in the midst of the Dark Knight hype, so I invariably drew similarities between the 'dark' superhero concepts in both Dark Knight and the graphic novel. To be honest, it looks like this will do a lot better, for me, in terms of conveying that.

inb4 the 'OMG Dark Knight is SOOOO not like Watchmen'

[BlackMage]

Watchmen is frikken amazing.

I MUST OWN THE SUPER-ULTRA 8 DISC SPECIAL EDITION OR WHATEVER.

The Doc Manhattan Mars scenes were my favorite, (the ones where he explains his past).

[S7wede]

Long.

While walking out of the cinema, that was my initial reaction to this movie. Surely they could have split it into 2 parts so as to allow audiences to absorb everything. Otherwise it was perfect. Having not read the graphic novel, I was unaware of the storyline and characters, but I loved it none the less.

[James Donaldson]

Edit: Pingo is gone

Rorschach was pure awesome!

[KimberlyK]

Quick amendment to my previous post: When I said that it was really well acted, I meant with the exception of the girl. She really wasn't very good at all, which is a pity, since everyone else was fantastic (particularly the guys who play the Comedian and Rorschach).

[phreak]

Alot of people I've spoken to didn't like the soundtrack. I thought it was awesome. Some real classics in there.

[dislekcia]

Alot of people I've spoken to didn't like the soundtrack. I thought it was awesome. Some real classics in there.

I thought the soundtrack was brilliant... All Along the Watchtower? Oh yeah :)

[Cleric]

I thought the soundtrack was brilliant... All Along the Watchtower? Oh yeah :)

Hendrix or Dave Matthews?

[Aequitas]

Hendrix :D

The music was awesome ... perfect for the time period that the movie was set in.

[Killa Bee]

Loved the opening scene with Bob Dylan's: The Times They Are a-Changin song, thought that was pulled off perfectly.

On the whole the movie was great and strangely it didn't feel that long to me.

[Gazza_N]

Although using Leonard Cohen for a sex scene was a little weird, I thought. Fitting in terms of lyrics, but weird. Cohen tends to be insufferably emo. <_<

[Banlam]

Alot of people I've spoken to didn't like the soundtrack. I thought it was awesome. Some real classics in there.

Loved the soundtrack.

I haven't read the novels before, plan to now, and over all found the movie weird. I enjoyed it, however long it was, and I understood and appreciated the story, I just found the movie odd in some way. Maybe the novels will bring some clarity.

Rorschach was also pretty cool.

[theDamaged]

Loved the opening scene with Bob Dylan's: The Times They Are a-Changin song, thought that was pulled off perfectly.

On the whole the movie was great and strangely it didn't feel that long to me.


I have to agree, it was actually one of my favourite parts of the movie. That had the Comedian death scene/fight. You could definitely see the 300 similarities.

I actually want to see this again, especially not having read the novel, I think I will actually enjoy it more now that I know what it is about and I will be able to concentrate less on the story and more on how it is being told.

[zakeroph]

I MUST buy the DVD cause liek...
anyone who has seen this won't need a reason from me.
Otherwise all i can say is, see it...see it NOW!

and if you can read the comic, don't compare the two. Enjoy each for their brilliance.

[Die Jason]

Went to go see it last night, thought it was awesome.

Never read the graphic novel (or heard of it when I saw the movie trailer).

[FTB_Screamer]

Saw it last night, excellent movie!.

Rorschach was awesome ."I'm not locked in with you, you're all locked in with me" :D

[FreakKing]

;_;
I almost saw it again yesterday night. But it started too late (like 3/2 hours from the time we arrived).
;_;
So we watched Slumdog Millionaire (ALSO A GOOD MOVIE, though).

I will watch it on Saturday/Sunday!

[Killa Bee]

Found this earlier and thought it looked pretty cool.

http://i511.photobucket.com/albums/s357/Meekath/Rorschach.jpg

[Cleric]

I truly can't decide how I feel about this film. Will post back in a while once I've thought over it a little. I do know that I want to read the graphoc novel now.
I think I liked it, but it wasn't as neat and well paced as it should have been, and there were scenes that just cluttered things up. At this moment though, I feel it's more of a character peice than anything else.

Sidenote:that Leonard Cohen song was a disaster. In fact, I felt that the soundtrack took great songs, and tried to beat them into you. I've never found these songs more out of place, except of coarse for the Bob Dylan track).

[James Donaldson]

I feel it's more of a character peice than anything else.

That's because it is. The Graphic Novel is mostly pages of well written dialogue, paranoia, personal strife, love-life issues and sordid pasts with a few action scenes now and then.

[Cleric]

Interesting.

Blue wangs aside, did anyone else feel a slight homosexual vibe here and there? Specifically that Rorsach (sp?) and maybe Veidt are gay? Is there a purpose for this?

EDIT: Also, I feel that The Incredibles may have taken a few things from Watchmen.

[Cleric]

Sorry for the doublepost, but just read this and found it interesting:

The movie ending isn't as good. In the Novel, Veidt out-reasons the other 'heroes' into a checkmate. In the film, he becomes an absolute dictator of the whole world with Jon as willing accomplice. It misses the point entirely.
I think that may be what bothered me about the ending. It's feels very forced, even though the actual actions make perfect sense.

[James Donaldson]

^ About that

Near the beginning of the Graphic Novel, when Rorschach visits Adrian Veidt, Rorschach leaves talking to himself, making the observation that Adrain must be gay and maybe he should investigate to confirm it. I think it was done to be a shocker in the comics day and not taken seriously now.

[Cleric]

Ok, so I've thought on it a little while and have decided that I really liked it, and what it was doing. The interplay btw the need for superheros, a real superhero making them obsolete, and the 2nd wave of the same hero's (Very 1950s DC) was very smart.
I also loved how Dr M's perception of time alienates him from humanity, as he shruggs off things of the world (my guess is that's why he is nude in private).

Will think on things a little more overnight, but don't have the time to discuss all my current thoughts here. Will prob get the super extended edition on DVD when it's released, and borrow my dads copy of the graphic novel asap.

One thing that bothered me is that the ****ing rosebank theatre can't seem to get lighting and focus right. Maybe it's the world of HD that's spoiled things, but I always feel that the video quality at the movies sucks.


I liked this movie a lot, but it was long as hell, and it makes you feel it at times.

Yes, the film could have been better paced in the lul after the prison until they reached the antarctic.

[GeometriX]

One thing that bothered me is that the ****ing rosebank theatre can't seem to get lighting and focus right. Maybe it's the world of HD that's spoiled things, but I always feel that the video quality at the movies sucks.
Dude, I know how you feel. The second time I saw it was at Monte and the projection was way too dark. There were details, especially facial expressions, that were almost impossible to see. Things that I saw the first time I watched it and know that people missed out on. Lighting's like a key element in a film like this - they can't screw it up.

[dislekcia]

Dude, I know how you feel. The second time I saw it was at Monte and the projection was way too dark. There were details, especially facial expressions, that were almost impossible to see. Things that I saw the first time I watched it and know that people missed out on. Lighting's like a key element in a film like this - they can't screw it up.

Imax.

\o/

Also, the closest movie experience is probably Dr Strangelove... Watched it the second time, after spending the whole day re-reading the graphic novel :) I love this movie so very, very much.

[no_fear]

Saw it tonight. Had no idea what to expense and all I can say is ****... That was heavy. You quickly realise it's a movie that you have to think in to follow the details of the story... I also expected it to just be a gore fest of superheroes. Very well done though.

I also enjoyed the fact that they didn't dumb it down or try make it PC - this was the way it was intended. It is also a movie that if you watch it a 2nd or 3rd time you actually learn more about it and gain a deeper understanding. Not many movies actually do that anymore - most spoon feed you for a mindless thrill ride. This was one of those movies which run like a lecture - if you miss a bit you can lose the whole story.

On the whole I think it was fantastic. Still trying to work out a few details though.

[Gazza_N]

Okay, time to eat my words. It turns out that the Cohen song was supposed to be out of place and ridiculous.


Crave Online: What about the Leonard Cohen song?

Zack Snyder: There are two Leonard Cohens because there is a Leonard Cohen on the end titles as well. Hallelujah, that love scene, I originally had the Allison Crowe version of that song, a version I’ve always loved, but in the end was just too romantic. Everybody thought that I meant it they thought the love scene was serious, not that it isn’t serious but her version was too sexy. So I was like yeah, I’ve got to go back to the Leonard Cohen. For me it is incredibly ironic, even with that version of the song it is incredibly ironic. I don’t care what version of Hallelujah is on, that love scene it is ridiculous, but in a great way. With Leonard Cohen it is like you can’t miss it now, can you? I’m sure some people will but that is fine.

Yay! (http://www.craveonline.com/articles/filmtv/04653139/2/zack_snyder_talks_watchmen.html)

All is forgiven, I suppose.

[Pr0wl1ng_PaPayA]

http://img8.imageshack.us/img8/6050/3588693.png (http://img8.imageshack.us/my.php?image=3588693.png)

[Cleric]

See it again...
http://www.hardcorenerdity.com/profiles/blog/show?id=2239098%3ABlogPost%3A40658
...because Solid Snake said so!

[Wesley]

If I ever get the chance to go to a Halloween costume party, I'll be sure to dress up as Rorshach! ;)

[Q-Man]

If I ever get the chance to go to a Halloween costume party, I'll be sure to dress up as Rorshach! ;)

I'ma go as Dr Manhattan! *runs off to buy blue spray paint*

Seriously though, this movie was totally awesome, I didn't even notice how long it was because I was so drawn in (a state which was irritatingly interrupted by my friend sitting next to me going "there's a lot of **** in this movie" :| thanks, captain obvious, I hadn't noticed).

Seriously, best movie of 2009 so far. Next: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince! Whoop whoop!

[echo]

It is one of those breathtaking movies, that you really enjoy and hope it doesn't end too soon. I did, but it was because I really had to pee, and I couldn't miss a minute of this movie. So in essence: This movie is worth holding it in. Or something. Just go see the movie.

[KimberlyK]

http://www.cracked.com/blog/rorschachs-journal-another-boring-night/

Amusing take on Rorschach. :)

[onona]

I just got back from watching it with a friend, and we both ****ing LOVED it. What an amazing film. I found it absolutely captivating from start to finish (and I should just mention that the intro title sequence was the BEST intro sequence I've ever seen - AMAZING!).

I've never read the book before, so the whole story was new to me. I did guess right at the beginning how it was going to end, but I've always had a knack for that. Seriously, it's become quite cliched that the guy building the endless energy source for a better world is the villain.

But wow, what a film. Gorgeous stylised visuals (I saw it at a huge digital cinema in Leicester Square woo), great soundtrack, really compelling characters. I said to my friend afterwards that the characters really should have been silly, with their weird outfits and stuff, and yet they weren't. You take them totally seriously the whole time, regardless of their silly gear.

[Kensei]

Watched it on the IMAX, gawd it makes everything so pretty :D

It was everything I expected and more - it was just as brutal and in your face as the graphic novel. I loved how everything came together in the end.

Music choice was superb for the scenes, acting was top notch as was the special effects. The subtle changes on Rorschach's mask, Veidt's air of genius, Dr. Manhattan's detached nature and Nightowl's 'soft side' all came across brilliantly.

Puts all 'normal' Action movies to shame with their flimsy plots and over the top, blaring theme tunes.

Sad that they didn't do the whole alien attack thing, but at least the alternate ending made just as much sense

Edit:

Interesting.

Blue wangs aside, did anyone else feel a slight homosexual vibe here and there? Specifically that Rorsach (sp?) and maybe Veidt are gay? Is there a purpose for this?

You are forgetting Silhouette (the one who looked like a Russian dominatrix) who was killed because she was gay. The graphic novel goes into more details but effectively she was force to retire from the Minutemen when the public found out she was lesbian.

[Kharrak]

Seriously, it's become quite cliched that the guy building the endless energy source for a better world is the villain.

Well, in the graphic novel it's rather different. Though he has his hands in finding new energy sources, it's not his main publicized forte. He also has an institute that's researching inter dimensional stuffs, and it's this institute that ties into the ending.

In the original plot, throughout the graphic novel we see headlines and reports that detail various artists, designers, and model builders (for movies) going missing - and it is later revealed that they have been gathered on an island to design the most realistic alien-like creature possible, under the guise that it's for an upcoming movie. This is the 'squiddy that everyone refers to :P

Ozymandias then uses teleportation tech he secretly build basing it off Dr Manhattan, and the squiddy into the center of New York, right at the point where his Dimensional Research building was located. At the same time. The resultant shockwave killed everyone, and tore the city, and every around it, apart for many miles. The idea was to make people think that the squiddy was a aggressive alien life form released from another dimension, and that it was killed in the process - it's death releasing a psychic shockwave. It's through this that the world is united, to defend against this 'common threat'.

It was also much more of a shock to the reader, as they don't see the disaster when it happens, but only the aftermath when Jupiter and Dr Manhattan teleport there - streets filled with dead, buildings torn apart.

As you've probably read, the reason this ending wasn't put into the movie was that the sub stories that built up to it were too much to fit into the movie.

Also, apologies if you already knew all this :P

[Aequitas]

Related to what Kharrak said, there's a little homage to the squid in the movie. On the consoles showing all the shock waves in Ozymandias' control center, there's a screen at the bottom that says "S.Q.U.I.D. activated" :)

Re-watching it on IMAX was awesome :)

[onona]

@Kharrak - actually, I didn't know that, thanks for explaining. I can see why they changed the ending, and actually it's nice that Hollywood changed an ending while still retaining the entire point and meaning for once. I'm looking forward to reading the book when I get a chance.

[onona]

In case anyone is interested, there is an article about the film's extensive VFX here:

http://features.cgsociety.org/story_custom.php?story_id=4947

And more here:

http://vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=57c5ed8a&atype=articles&id=3930

http://vfxworld.com/?sa=adv&code=57c5ed8a&atype=articles&id=3932

[Kensei]

Thanks for the link, onona, was a good read :)

[Xm@niac!]

I need to go see it!!!

[Scorch621]

Man i dont know **** about Watchmen and i Loved it!!!....Rorshach was a lunatic but he was cool..one of the coolest characters in the movie....sucks what happened at the end though...i wont say what to refrain from spoliers..

[onona]

I'm busy reading the book right now, and all I can say is godsdamn it's ****ing AMAZING. I mean, I loved the film, but the book - the book takes it to a whole new level. It's the first comic/graphic novel I've ever read, and I am astounded at just how deeply a story can be portrayed in comic panels. I'd recommend the book to anyone who hasn't already read it; I'm enjoying it even more than I enjoyed the film.

[Ch@pS]

Just saw this today actually, with the GF. Very very nice, I really enjoyed every second. I found myself seriously attached to Rorshach(sp?), the ending for him sucked but it somehow fit, I didn't really mind it. Best movie I've seen this year, will get it on DVD when its released. Also keen on getting the graphic novel.

[onona]

SPOILERS

The thing is, Rorschach is really not a very nice character. On the surface, he appears to be a crime fighter. In reality, he's batsh!t crazy. He sees things purely in black and white, and as such, he's actually a dangerous man. He needed to go. One could actually argue that Ozymandias (Veidt) isn't really a villain at all at the end of the film, which really flips the entire thing around. Really, Rorschach is a compelling character, but not a nice guy. Not a nice guy at all.

[Banlam]

Do spoiler tags not work any more?

[Wesley]

The thing I liked about Rorshach is that he never compromised his morals. Sure, he killed a lot of people, but most were for good reason, others just managed to get on his bad side. His refusal to accept Veidt and John's decisions bears the mark of a man who cares deeply about the human race, even if his actions contradict this notion. Its a shame he had such a crappy childhood, he could have turned out differently, happy somehow.

My heart goes out to the Comedian. He lived a life of violence and bloodlust, and I liked the fact that he eventually admitted his sins and sort of asked for forgiveness. He kind of reminds me of my own father, being exposed to all that he has while serving for the police.

Doc Manhattan was cool, but I didn't like his detachment from reality. He developed a major god complex, and refused to step into someone else's shoes no matter the situation, which really irritated me. I still dont understand why he only showed Silver Spectre parts of her past - is that really how he perceives time?

[onona]

Doc Manhattan was cool, but I didn't like his detachment from reality. He developed a major god complex, and refused to step into someone else's shoes no matter the situation, which really irritated me. I still dont understand why he only showed Silver Spectre parts of her past - is that really how he perceives time?

You need to read the book.

[Kensei]

Do spoiler tags not work any more?

Obviously not :/

[Wesley]

You need to read the book.

Yeah I know - busy looking around for it, perhaps I may have to order it from Exclusive Books. Anyone in P.E. got a copy of it for me to read? I'll buy chocolate...lots of chocolate ^_^ ^_^ ^_^

[onona]

It would be kinda weird if you couldn't find a copy of it. What with the release of the film and all, it's in all the book and music stores here, as with the books of any big film release.

[Die Jason]

It would be kinda weird if you couldn't find a copy of it. What with the release of the film and all, it's in all the book and music stores here, as with the books of any big film release.

Just check out Take2 - lots of different versions here (http://www.take2.co.za/list.php?type=3&qsearch=watchmen). Or you can order from www.readersden.co.za (they have the figures as well)

[Gazza_N]

Yeah I know - busy looking around for it, perhaps I may have to order it from Exclusive Books.
Y'know, Kalahari and Take 2, those two shops that live on the Internet and deliver to you, are both offering the book at a very decent price. ;)

Chocolate please? :P

EDIT: AAAAAARGH! Brunch23'd! :<

[Die Jason]

EDIT: AAAAAARGH! Brunch23'd! :<

Muhahahahahaha! :dp::punch:

But like everybody says, lots of places selling Watchmen goodies. And when the DVD gets released there should be even more stuff. Wonder if they will release a special edition that includes the graphic novel? Hmmmm....

[Spindleshanks]

All I can say is SMURFY ****! Why? WHHY!?

[Gazza_N]

Ahhh, but the real question is "why not?". And that's why this movie is awesome. ^______^

[Kharrak]

All I can say is SMURFY ****! Why? WHHY!?

He was naked in the graphic novel, the creators saw no good reason why they should cut it out in "convenient" shots. And to be honest, past the initial surprise that they weren't afraid of showing him fully naked.... it wasn't really an issue >_>

[Spindleshanks]

He was naked in the graphic novel, the creators saw no good reason why they should cut it out in "convenient" shots. And to be honest, past the initial surprise that they weren't afraid of showing him fully naked.... it wasn't really an issue >_>

Yea, I guess your right. Still weird though.

[James Donaldson]

Didn't really think "OMG blue Penis" when watching, so I can't say I noticed. :/

The movie was great, though the one song '99 Luftballoons' seemed completely out of place.

The way the movie did things apart from the book, made certain scenes more effective (Burying the Comedian, Dr. Manhattan freaking out) while ruining/lowering the effect of others (Dr. Manhattans' thoughts on Mars, Roscharch telling the Prison docter his story).

Still, great move, but not exactly one I can watch again any time soon.

[proVoke]

Rorshach and dr manhattan were portrayed really well but the rest of the movie kinda made me feel violated... and it wasnt even the blue penis that made me feel that way

[Liszt]

I didnt like the movie.

A Christian review about the movie (no comments please, I'm not going to reply):
http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0004523.cfm

Liszt :-)

[James Donaldson]

^ Warning! Liszt's 'REVIEW', spoils every plot point of the movie!

Posting a line for line whine about everything negative about a movie, isn't a review.

Seriously, I've seen the movie and read the comic, but have some consideration for others who might not have seen it, or know the comics plot.

[zom813]

Gonna probably go see this movie later in the week...

[James Donaldson]

I do agree that the sex was abit overboard (barely noticed in the comic) and they did up the gore to an unpleasant level.

On a side note, I got the Animated Comic of Watchmen, it's voiced by one man (which ruins the female voices), but it's very well done with all 12 chapters, with added music and some clever 3D work which makes everything come to life. I actually had the graphic novel open while it played and it was about 98% accurate (they left out a few lines here and there).

[Spindleshanks]

I didnt like the movie.

A Christian review about the movie (no comments please, I'm not going to reply):
http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0004523.cfm

Liszt :-)

He has a point and I respect that.

[Kharrak]

I find it odd how that review states that the graphic novel was of high quality, but the movie was overly gratuitous - when the graphic novel was every bit as gratuitous as the graphic novel, and even more so (the graphic novel had more sexual content than the movie, as well as more violence and blood, and so on and so on).

If the person did not enjoy the movie, that's perfectly fine, but this contradiction (or plain hypocrisy) is what irks me. It paints the picture that the person regards themselves as intelligent simply because they wholly agree to what "respected" publications say (in this case, his statements regarding the quality of the graphic novel), and then moves to criticize the movie in a level of "profesionalism" that's almost cliche.

It's true that the movie was largely geared towards the fanbase, but at the same time I know a plethora of people who had not read the graphic novel - most of which don't even read graphic novels - and they thoroughly enjoyed the movie. I also know others who did not enjoy the movie, but their reasoning made sense - either an aspect of the movie irritated them, or they disagreed with the philosophy of something within the movie, and so on. Hell, it's even acceptable if one disliked the movie for the pure reason that one rather wanted a simple flat super hero film, and were uncomfortable with the complexity of the movie.

But to accuse the movie of things such as just trying to be a shock film, people who are insulted and horrified by the movies brave faithful recreation of the nudity, sex, and violence for the pure reason that they believe that movies should not have that... THAT is what annoys me.

[dammit]

To be honest, I found the "main couple" highly annoying. They seemed overly childish and kept throwing temper tantrums. I don't know if this was meant to show their human quality or if that is just how they were. Either way, I saw it as unnecessary and irritating.

I also found the movie, even though I've never read the novel, very predictable. Not just because it was your classic good vs evil where good always triumphs, but because the characters would literally tell you what would happen next. For example, Nightowl says "Ozymandias is so fast some say he could catch a bullet" and not 5 minutes later, Ozymandias catches a bullet. Surprise surprise.

Overall, interesting idea and themes throughout but not very much thinking to be done.

[onona]

I didnt like the movie.

A Christian review about the movie (no comments please, I'm not going to reply):
http://www.pluggedinonline.com/movies/movies/a0004523.cfm


Whoever wrote that was too stupid to understand the book, as well as the film. Then again, I wouldn't expect to read anything even vaguely intelligent on a review site with a religious agenda. The point of such sites is to brainwash, to feed people opinions so that they don't have to think for themselves; not educate. As such, the content is bound to be cretinous.

By the way, posting links and then saying "don't bother commenting, I won't reply" is extraordinarily childish, and pathetic. If you don't want to discuss something, don't post it. You're obviously fearful of having to actually engage your brain about these issues, content instead to simply accept what you're told, and never think for yourself. Baaaaabaaaaaaabaaaaaa. Go back to tinkering on your piano and leave this thread for those of us who actually possess the ability to use our own minds. Thanks.

[Wesley]

Some things said in that article taught me more about the movie, such as the watchmaker references and profiles about some of the characters, but other things were completely taken out of context.

I haven't read the book, but I understand that the level of violence portrayed was just enough back then to shock people, and with the movie things had to be done a little differently to keep the shock factor. The author is bent on telling people about every potentially bad thing possible in the movie, even down to noticing how many swear words were used or in how many scenes was alcohol included - a rather childish attempt at chasing people away and trying to brainwash them with a biased opinion.

The author even complained about the sex scenes in the movie. Come on - this is the 21st century, not the dark ages. Then again, I guess its useless complaining about an article that does little to enthuse people to see the movie, or read the book. Its a dark, sordid look into the other side of human nature, and the church doesn't want that.

There's so much fail in that review, I believe it was a waste of my time reading it. Being a Christian thing and all, why did they completely miss the scene where the Comedian breaks down?

[sywlyn]

I wouldn't expect to read anything even vaguely intelligent on a review site with a religious agenda. The point of such sites is to brainwash, to feed people opinions so that they don't have to think for themselves

I watched the movie today, loved it.

However, honestly, a reply like this doesn't warrant a response. I think the reason the poster stated he wont respond is because he probably expected a response like yours, which in all honestly is completely out of place.

Stating that you wouldn't expect to read anything vaguely intelligent on a religious site is just bad taste and normally turn great threads into vaguely intelligent flame wars.



The author even complained about the sex scenes in the movie. Come on - this is the 21st century, not the dark ages.

Lol, so true. Its funny how something so natural, something which everyone has been doing ever since the beginning of time "sexxx", is too taboo to either talk about, or show in the media. The blue turtle shocked me, lol, since that's a big "no no" all together. Sex, nudity, one would think people would prefer their kids to be exposed to these... nope... violence is so much better... :)

[Kensei]

I do agree with what onona was trying to say, that it is a bit stupid to post an article and then just leave the thread without discussing the article - although I would have worded my response differently ^_^

Kharrak raised a good point, it is a bit hypocritical to leave the book alone but slate the movie; my guess is that the reviewer had not had a chance to read the graphic novel and was basing their words on what they found in their research.

I didn't mind the sex scenes, perhaps they were not elaborated so much in the graphic novel because the author didn't feel they required as much focus? Perhaps the director wanted to make the singles in the audience feel sad that they weren't getting any? :P I was expecting the nudity and I am glad that they did not castrate Dr. Manhattan.

[no_fear]

That was a crap review; he just mentioned every possibly negative thing in the movie. Not really concluding anything. I agree with onona too... If you post something, defend it and/or give another point of view to it.

[onona]

Stating that you wouldn't expect to read anything vaguely intelligent on a religious site is just bad taste and normally turn great threads into vaguely intelligent flame wars.

Congratulations on quoting my post totally out of context, and thus missing my point.

Let me highlight the point I was making for you.

I wouldn't expect to read anything even vaguely intelligent ON A REVIEW SITE with a religious agenda. I didn't say "a religious site", I specifically said "a review site with a religious agenda". There is a difference. My point was continued by stating why I wouldn't expect to find anything intelligent on a such a site: because the point of the site is to feed people opinions.

How about actually reading the damn post before getting all uppity because I dared to use the word "religious"?

Also, I'd like you to explain why you think it's okay for someone to post a link to a rellgious review site, but no-one is allowed to criticise that? Mmmm, I love the smell of double standards in the morning.

Protip: don't cherry pick people's posts to justify your reactionary outbursts; and don't have double standards.

Here endeth the lesson.

[Octavianus]

Seriously,that review smacks of nonobjective, biased drivel.But I guess one can expect that of a religious site.There is no way a person affiliated with such a site could give a positive review to a movie like Watchmen.Imagine the outcry, I mean, you actually see a resonating blue penis, it borders on heresy!

[sywlyn]

Congratulations on quoting my post totally out of context, and thus missing my point.

Lol @ onona, thanks for the lesson, much appreciated.


I wouldn't expect to read anything even vaguely intelligent ON A REVIEW SITE with a religious agenda. I didn't say "a religious site", I specifically said "a review site with a religious agenda". There is a difference. My point was continued by stating why I wouldn't expect to find anything intelligent on a such a site: because the point of the site is to feed people opinions.

I completely misunderstood you, since all review sites on the internet feed all their users opinions "I believe they do" I thought vaguely intellectual was referring to their intellect and not their religious opinion on a movie which one could understand would probably not go down well being shown within a church.

Most of the smart people I work with have a very singular view on the world, thus me not understanding how intellect and one sided opinion fell into place.

Consider the following "another lesson since we are sharing".

It's a religious site. People who are uber religious visit the site to participate in their blogs and read their reviews. These users all share a common thing, their love for god and a similar "conservative" view on the world. So the user base they service is very different to ours. "It's not wrong, it's not right". They actually believe sex is something which shouldn't be displayed publicly, violence is a taboo, they probably still believe homosexuals go the hell ext. I'm not saying it's right, I'm just saying that their user base, commonly have a very spefic view on life. When considering this, don't you believe the review could possibly be a good review based on their perception of the world and ultimately to the majority of users on their site who would read it and benefit from it?


How about actually reading the damn post before getting all uppity because I dared to use the word "religious"?
lol , sorry, this piece is amusing, just had to quote it.

Mmmm, I love the smell of double standards in the morning.

I'm not the most ethical person in the world, infact, most people would confirm this, so unlike 80% of this planet I'm not going to stand up, raise my hand and state "i have no double standards", as I believe most people do.

Double standards or not, I'm consistent. The poster posted a link to a religious site, not suffering from "vague intellect syndrome" he realized the kind of responses he would receive "confirmed both by your post and the religious flame war the other day". Also considering he is very religious "which i assume he is, nothing wrong with that" I also realize that the last thing he wants to do is defend his moral stances on violence, sex, blue ****, ext". Considering all the above, I honestly cannot understand how people don't "get it". He doesn't mind critism, infact, he knew he was going to receive it, Cleary displayed by his post, he however, is not willing to defend a review with a religious view to a group of people who do not share that view, since he understands....

Anyway, the above is my opinion, do with it what you want. I'm not here to change the world one guy at a time. If you don't agree with me, its fine, believe me, it has no impact. If you want to rave on about it, PM me, unless you need the public affection. I don't, and I'm not going to change this into some uber cool flame war. If you really feel the need to discuss it PM me.

[onona]

When considering this, don't you believe the review could possibly be a good review based on their perception of the world and ultimately to the majority of users on their site who would read it and benefit from it?


I don't see how humanity benefits from being told what to think. In fact, people being told what to think, instead of experiencing things and deciding for themselves, is one of the biggest causes of xenophobia, racism, and other forms of bigotry in the world today.

A site that reviews films for a target audience may seem fairly inconsequential, but it's indicative of a far bigger problem.


Cleary displayed by his post, he however, is not willing to defend a review with a religious view to a group of people who do not share that view


Then he shouldn't post it. I have a huge problem with people who post crap but aren't willing to back it up with any rationale. If you're not capable of defending your views, don't post them. Simple as that. This thread is a discussion, and if someone isn't willing to discuss something, then they shouldn't post at all. And, frankly, I am tired of religious people making statements and never bothering to back them up. It's cowardly. At least the rest of us make an effort.

The sad fact is that Liszt can't back up his post. Because there aren't any sites out there instructing him how to do so. He's proved on numerous occasions in the past that he's incapable of any form of rational discussion, and as such, he should refrain outright from posting crap like this. In other words, he shouldn't let his mouth write a check that his butt can't cash.

[sywlyn]

hmmm, very valid point, and I mostly agree with the above. Will PM you later today, can have a chat.

[Soppy]

Watched the movie and loved most of it.

Only two complaints really.

Vedit had a God complex, did he have one in the comic? Made him the obvious "bad guy"

So the only way for mankind to have peace is to fear a powerful being that will punish us if have war?... yeah

[Gazza_N]

So the only way for mankind to have peace is to fear a powerful being that will punish us if have war?... yeah
No, but causing both sides to unite against an extremely powerful common foe who has been "proven" to be hostile to humanity in general is an effective (but not necessarily good, or permanent) way to stop the Cold War.

[Sir-Ominous]

butt kicking,eye bursting,jaw dropping awesomeness