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Hey! It’s your friendly neighborhood spider-man! Again! Animated! Again! But now with more Spider…folk! Spider-Man into The Spiderverse was directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman. Written by the guy who wrote The Lego Movie (1 and 2), Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (1 and 2), Phil Lord. The new Spidey flick stars the voice telents of Shameik Moore as Spider-Man, Jake Johnson as Spider-Man, Hailee Steinfeld (Bumblebee) as Spider-Gwen/Spider-Woman, John Mulaney as Spider…Ham, Kimiko Glenn as… Peni Parker. I’m not sure what her spider personae is called. Liev Schreiber as Wilson Fisk, Nicolas Cage as Spider-Man, and Chris Pine… as Spider-Man. A New Web-Slinger You may not be familiar with the Miles Morales Spider-Man, and I fall into that category, but he has a far more “normal” life than most of the other spider… beings. Which is nice. Spider-Man: Into The Spiderverse is extremely self aware. They go over the origin story, but they know you know the original origin… they make you know you know. You know so much, and they know you know so much, this movie yells about knowing the origin with you! There is plenty for everyone in this Marvel movie. The is only one stretch of the film that ties it into the MCU at all, otherwise, the live action universe has no string to this movie. It is most definitely a family film. No cursing. Obviously violence, but nothing too bloody, except for a bloody nose, and “comic” violence. It does play with your emotions quite a bit, but mostly only grownups will get the scenes, and they tend to linger just enough. The theater I wen to was maybe at half capacity. The Stan Lee cameo hushed the crowd. Not even crickets dared make a sound. You can feel that every single audience member breathe wistfully. As did the quote displayed just before the credits rolled. There is an after credit scene that is well worth the wait! And it helps cleanse the emotional pallet, so you’ll definitely want to see. Spider-Man: Into The Spiderverse is out right now in 3D IMAX, 2D IMAX, and standard formats at your local theater! Intro/OutroCourtesy of FiXT amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "ageekedlife06-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_design = "enhanced_links"; amzn_assoc_asins = "B0164LVRZU"; amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "2630c4d5dd8fc137ad3b173817d78be7"; Transition song – Spidey Loves You by Daniel Pemberton performing Spider-Man Loves You. Motion Picture Artwork (C) 2018 CTMG. All Rights Reserved. MARVEL and all related character names: (C) & TM 2018 MARVEL. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "ageekedlife06-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_design = "enhanced_links"; amzn_assoc_asins = "B07LB79NR7"; amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "843c90e958feb811e2fb80f451f7f226";

Review: Advanced Screening of The Bumblebee Movie Bumblebee is a spin-off from the Michael Bay Transformer’s movie franchise. Directed by directed by Travis Knight (I don’t remember what name I gave the director in the car) (Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, and Kubo and the Two Strings) and stars Hailee Steinfeld (Charlie), Justin Theroux, Dylan O’Brien, John Cena, Angela Basset, Jorge Lendeborg Jr., and Pamela Adlon. It was written by Christina Hodson (Unforgettable, and also writing for Birds of Prey – and the very long subtitle and Batgirl movie). We find ourselves witnessing the prequel of the series, on Cybertron. An origin story of sorts will give an older audience members butterflies, or at least it did for me. This movie is chock full of nostalgia for any 80’s kids. The direction was to help parents introduce their childhood to their kids (even grandkids) in a way that is more visually stunning than the charm of the 80’s cartoons. Yes, there is plenty of “Oooo” “Aaah” moments that seemed to be there purely for the sake of spectacle, but as I mention in the podcast, there is enough to keep the O.G., after school cartoon watching, 80’s child involved. It had several genuine heartfelt moments, but there was also a few that seemed forced. Overall, the Bumblebee movie was fun, entertaining, and worth at least one viewing. I can’t comment on 3D since the version I saw was an advanced screening in standard format, but if the 2D is any judge, I doubt you’ll miss much from passing on that version. However, I am curious how much better it could look in an IMAX format. You tell me! Bumblebee is scheduled for release on December 20th at most theaters. Available in 3D, IMAX, and standard formats. Go ahead, relive part of the 80’s… don’t be scared.

Black Panther: Wakanda Leads to War Black Panther is Ryan Coogler’s third film, following the success of Creed. Starring Chadwick Boseman (Justified, Fringe, 42, Marshall) as T’Challa, Michael B. Jordan (Fantastic Four, Creed) as Eric ‘Killmonger’, Lupita Nyong’o (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, The Jungle Book, 12 Years a Slave) as Nakia. It follows the events of Captain America: Civil War, with the death of T’Challa’s father, King T’Chaka (John Kani). T’Challa comes home to be crowned the new king of Wakanda. Upon his arrival, he has to decide what to do now that The Black Panther has been in the public eye. Will he keep to the tradition of seclusion, or usher in a new era of global community? The script was well written, and the dialog flowed smoothly. The actors all did their jobs splendidly. Ryan Coogler conveyed a land that is lush, beautiful and prosperous. Viewing this film in large format is a must, however, 3D left a lot of the high speed action blurry – at least for me. Listen to my review for a more detailed breakdown!

Does The Last Jedi Bridge Generations? The Last Jedi picks up immediately after The Force Awakens. The Resistance is scrambling, even though it has dealt The First Order a heavy blow. The Resistance is lead by General Leia Organa (Carrie Fischer). But their base of operations, Yavin IV has been discovered and is forced to flea. Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), Finn (John Boyega), and BB-8 remained with the group while Rey (Daisy Ridley) seeks the aide of an Old Jedi Knight, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill). The Last Jedi marks the second to last of the “Skywalker Saga”. It was announced earlier this year that JJ Abrahms will return to direct the yet-to-be-titled ninth film. I was extremely hesitant to post this review. Many reviews found the movie… lacking. While others considered it among their favorites. For me, in all honesty, I’m still not entirely sure how I felt. Or even still feel. I will be seeing the movie again in about a week, and either my feelings will be confirmed or changed. I will never not see a Star Wars film in the theater, even if it does not excite me. However, for this film, I may have set myself up for over-expectations. We will all have our opinions. They can all be valid, yet the most disturbing aspect for me is how “fans” are treating each other over these opinions.

Does Thor: Ragnarok Live Up To The Hype? Thor: Ragnarok is the third Thor movie, directed by Taika Waititi, and in the third phase of the MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe). Chris Hemsworth and Tom Hiddleston reprise their roles as Thor and Loki respectively. At the start of the film, there is a plot setup regarding Ragnarok; the Norse mythological end to Asgard, the Gods, and existence as a whole. Cate Blanchett plays a playful, yet serious villain in the Goddess of Death, Hela. Tessa Thompson shows a strong yet remorseful Valkyrie, Mark Ruffalo is the long lost Bruce Banner/Hulk, and Idris Elba as the defiant Heimdall. There are a number of cameos in this movie. Do yourself a favor and avoid the internet, as they are wonderfully (read tacky) done. Although IMDB lists many of them, I did not see a specific cameo credited. After the movie, there are two after credit scenes: One after the splash credits, and another after the credit scroll portion. Listen to the podcast to get my take on the film!   Intro/Outro Courtesy of FiXT by Celldweller

An Interview with Michael G. Williams In this episode I speak with award winning author, tabletop game writer, and podcaster Michael G. Williams. Some of his credits include Wraith: The Oblivion 20th Anniversary Edition and an independent setting for Pathfinder. Michael has also written numerous short stories. Michael and I talk about the ways he expresses his life’s experiences in his writing in his series of novellas called The Withrow Chronicles, about a vampire that struggles with his lingering humanity and dealing with his neighbors who find themselves in mortal danger. And his connection with visual as well as written media. We go over our opinions on Wonder Woman, in addition to TV shows that pique our interest for varying reasons. And finally Michael explains his focus on the early 90’s musi-drama “Cop Rock“. Join us as we dive deep into the social dimensions of print and visual media. Find Michael G. Williams – Twitter | Amazon   Intro/Outro Courtesy of FiXT by Celldweller

Review of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 Director James Gunn presents movie-goers with a second installment of the intergalactic misfit band of universe savers in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Lead by Peter Quill (Chris Pratt) or better know as Star Lord. Rejoined by Gamora (Zoe Saldana), Drax The Destroyer (Dave Bautista), Rocket Raccoon (Bradley Cooper), and a maturing “toddler” Groot (Vin Diesel). We follow this band of anti-heroes being heroes for hire as they save planets from interdimensional threats. Or, saving themselves from those that hired them. The second film in the Marvel Galactic Universe is full of fun, good humor, and plenty of action. The humor is full of 80’s references and at times childish, however, the childish humor always fit the situation and is never over-extended. All the characters continue to develop, especially Bautista’s Drax. Drax is given more lines, and his character has more depth this time around. Along with the light-hearted, be prepared to experience many emotional tugs to your heart. Talk about “Daddy issues”. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 does not fall prey to the sequel curse we’ve often come to expect, but rarely see in Marvel movies. There are a total of five “post movie” scenes. Two before the credits, one during the credits, and two after the credits. If you don’t need to see in 3D, it shouldn’t take away from your experience, however, I do highly recommend watching the expanded visual format (IMAX, HDR). I know I will be a frequent flyer for this film, since I know I’ve missed visual and verbal content.

We ask the question “What Prep?” The Global Geek Defense Force convenes once again to determine the fate of the world. We ask the all important question “What prep?”. The Bearded Maker goes over his challenges with video editing for his eventually to be launched YouTube Channel. Angry Black Man decides to be a commentator. Matt takes a page out of Angry Black Man’s playbook by referring to notes and tries to get conversations started by mentioning the feat the SpaceX program accomplished with the first use of a “used” rocket, with return landing. He shares YouTube’s news regarding the YouTubeTV service to rival Sling.TV. And he shares some information regarding Marvel’s TV series New Warriors and an update on Inhumans. The Captain asks the council about what upcoming movies we’re planning to watch. Additionally, the group discusses Iron Fist, and some of its shortcomings. A special announcement! We are giving away a signed poster by The King of Rock himself, DMC, Mr. Darryl McDaniels! (Open to contiguous US residents only – sorry!) a Rafflecopter giveaway Want to see the moderately produced video? Captain Villain Black Youtube The Bearded Maker Instagram | Facebook Angry Black Man *TBD*   Intro/Outro Courtesy of FiXT by Celldweller   Video feeds – | | | @thegeekedlife on Periscope

Now in Stuttering Technicolor In this episode of GGDF, we try streaming live in Stuttering Technicolor. “The Bearded Maker” talks about his trial and errors recording video of his projects, and Matt and “Captain Villain Black” offer up some advice. Next, Matt talks about NASA’s discovery of Trappist-1, another galaxy with potentially habitable planets. We discuss whether books are better than their visual counterparts, even if you haven’t read them. The “Angry Black Man” gives us his sleeper series and his impressions of Logan while trying not to spoil anything. Did he succeed??? Listen to find out! Later, The Captain and Matt continue on, and try to explain the X-Men universe’s “Legion” and Tom Hardy’s “Taboo” without mentioning specifics. Captain Villain Black Youtube The Bearded Maker Instagram | Facebook Angry Black Man *TBD*   Intro/Outro Courtesy of FiXT by Celldweller   Video feeds – | | | @thegeekedlife on Periscope

An Interview With Gabriel Dunston I speak with illustrator-artist Gabriel Dunston. We talk about his path as an artist from a child just doodling to attending music school and discovering his true calling. Gabriel and I also cover the philosophy of art and the culture behind the world of comic artists and illustrators. Gabe also talks about his experiences at conventions. He also shares the fact that he is color blind, and how he works within and around his unique situation as an artist. Gabriel also shares the details of his Kickstarter. Titled “Stuff and Things”, the art book that showcases his artistic style and his approach at drawing and character development. Gabriel is only running a limited print, so once the Kickstarter is over, he is no longer printing that book. Gabriel Dunston Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Website | KICKSTARTER!   Intro/Outro – Boss Jim Gettys – Handy Street Sessions – 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

Global Geek Defense Force: An Adventure in Live Streaming In this episode of the Global Geek Defense Force, our heroes face the dreaded "Attempt At Live Streaming", and failed miserably. However, we did get audio from the display of the heroic battle. Byron was on a mission to convince Matt to watch Netflix's The OA. Byron administered a viewership compatibility test that he swears wasn't from the fashion magazine "Elle". LeRon covers errors we made in the previous podcast (of which I corrected some on the attached description). And continues to mock Byron's lack of knowledge regarding the subject of the t-shirt he was wearing: Link. Justin follows up by trying to get the group focused with a question regarding home security and the "smart home". All the while, Matt is wondering if the stream is actually working and why his tablet keeps connecting and disconnecting devices. Will our heroes prevail? Will the message make it out to the public in full color video? If you were there, you would know the answer is no. So you must listen now! The safety of the world is at stake!

Interview with Gail Z Martin On January 14th, I went to Illogicon in Cary (I know I say Raleigh, because they have held it there in the past). I got to interview Gail Z. Martin. Over the course of December, Gail I had planned multiple times to Skype the interview, but she was busy promoting her projects and the holidays, and it was a mess trying to sync up. However, when I found out that she was attending Illogicon, I knew this was our chance. Gail is a Charlotte based writer of Sci-Fi, Steampunk, and Fantasy. She started her writing career in 2007, but had always been interested in writing and creating a universe of her own. Gail has written numerous books in her plethora of series. We discuss her love of her characters and the excitement she feels expanding their universe. Gail later discovers her calling to help people with emotional and mental traumas through the We Hold Onto the Light project. It initially started as a one off, but positive responses and the calling for more prompted the project to continue. It was a pleasure and honor to speak with Gail, and you should check out her books. Also, check out We Hold Onto the Light, either as a reader, or if you would like to take an active role!     Gail Z. Martin Facebook | Twitter | Website We Hold Onto The Light Facebook | Twitter (hashtag)   Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

Spoiler filled Rogue One Review I would like to preface this episode with "GO SEE THE MOVIE FIRST!" I do not want to taint your view of the movie going in. If you are one of those people that can deflect opinion and get passed other people's hang ups, then listen on! Now, let us continue on with my Rogue One review! Overall, I enjoyed this movie. It was fun. It had a lot of thrills. And the characters by and large were likeable. I had many things that I disliked about the movie, but it didn't take away from the "movie watching experience". I would not rank this film with Empire, and I feel if you try to compare them, you're being unfair to the hard work that was put into the production. Please listen as I drone on with my unprofessional opinions!     Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

First Episode of Global Geek Defense Force This episode is the first using the mobile studio for the Global Geek Defense Force podcast. We set up shop at Byron's house where we are joined by LeRon and the Bearded Maker, Justin. Initially, the recorder wasn't receiving a loud enough signal and would shut down. So after a few false starts and redoing the intro once or twice, we were off and running. LeRon and I discuss Westworld at the beginning. We move on to our impressions of the Spider-Man: Homecoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 trailers. The podcast was a loose format since we hadn't spoke  in a while and had a lot we wanted to talk about. We learn a few things regarding the next episode such as keeping a schedule on topics, and what topics we'd like to talk about. Towards the end of the podcast, the wheels slowly started to fall off. One new addition we're going to look at is live video with multiple camera angles. It won't be perfect, it won't be professional, but it will be something. YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/user/geekedus Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thegeekedlife Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

Spoilerific Review: Doctor Strange Synopsis Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular role, Doctor Strange follows the famed surgeon through his downward and obsessive spiral following a devastating car crash which left him unable to continue his illustrious career. He finds himself in search of a mystical healer in Kamar-Taj to restore his hands to their former glory. He receives an education for which he did not prepare. Impressions My friend Byron and I took in the IMAX 3D showing of the film, and as much as I was disappointed at the lack of non-3D IMAX, it turned out (for me, anyway) a blessing. The 3D effects gave the over-the-top and mystical fight scenes and added "spice". Especially in the third act! From beginning to end, I felt immersed in the universe unfolding (or folding) before my eyes. Time really isn't an issue as I peered into the realm of magic, mysticism, and multidimensional existence. Cumberbatch was an excellent choice for Doctor Strange (hey, he's finally a doctor!). Tilda Swinton's playful and warm presentation of The Ancient One was just as fitting. Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo gave a presence of wisdom, quieted anger, and refinement. While Benedict Wong played a masterful librarian; as he took his job seriously, and you couldn't help but feel there was more depth than we were presented. In contrast, Mads Mikkelsen played a flawless and believable villain. You couldn't help feeling that there is an innocent point of view behind his character. Rachel McAdams as Doctor Strange's at one time girlfriend was full of heart and caring, though, I have a feeling some of her scenes may have been left out for runtime purposes. Overall, I'm really impressed with this new realm of comic book mythology and expect great things in the future. In the podcast, I offer a short non-spoiler impression, followed by a more detailed spoiler-filled review.  

An Interview with Richard Rouse III Richard Rouse III started his game development career working for some major studios when he discovered that he needed to find his own voice and broke into the independent realm. He had previously started a publisher called Paranoid Productions to get his vision to the masses. The Church in the Darkness is Richard's upcoming release which follows a husband and wife religious "group" to South America to establish their perfect community. This overhead open narrative game lets you draw your own conclusions and how to proceed through this community. The choices you make determine where you end up! The Church in the Darkness is scheduled for release in 2017 on PC/Steam, Xbox One, PS4, and Mac. Paranoid Productions/The Church in the Darkness Website | Twitter     Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

An Interview with Josh Viola Josh Viola is an author, artist, and former video game developer (Pirates of the Caribbean, Smurfs, TARGET: Terror). In addition to creating a transmedia franchise around The Bane of Yoto, honored with more than a dozen awards, he is the author of Blackstar, a tie-in novel based on the discography of Celldweller. His debut horror anthology, Nightmares Unhinged, was a Denver Post number one bestseller. Josh's next anthology, Cyber World, co-edited by Jason Heller, will be available on Election Day, 2016. His short fiction has appeared in Nightmares Unhinged and The Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers Found anthology. He lives in Denver, Colorado, where he is chief editor and owner of Hex Publishers. (Bio taken from Hex Publishing Website) Boomer and Friends! Written by Joshua Viola Illustrated by Lindsey Bell and Aaron Lovett Boomer the bison might wish he had other bison friends and family, but he does have a lot of fun with his different prairie pals! When trouble comes prowling, Boomer discovers something special about himself... and that he has all the family he needs. Find Josh Viola on the internet! Website | Twitter | Hex Publishers | The Bane of Yoto   Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

And Interview with Bobby Stein Bobby Stein is a veteran writer and narrative designer for ArenaNet, the developer of the Guild Wars franchise. Bobby started his career with Microsoft, later moving onto Nintendo Entertainment. In addition to his love of writing, Bobby also have an ear for music. He's in a band with childhood friends and recently released a once thought lost recording: Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions.   @import url('http://www.geeked.life/wp-content/plugins/grand-media/module/afflux/css/style.css?v=3.9') all; var GmediaGallery_22; jQuery(function () { var settings = {"descrVisOnMouseover":"0","ID":"22","moduleUrl":"http:\/\/www.geeked.life\/wp-content\/plugins\/grand-media\/module\/afflux","pluginUrl":"http:\/\/www.geeked.life\/wp-content\/plugins\/grand-media","libraryUrl":"http:\/\/www.geeked.life\/wp-content\/grand-media"}; var content = [{"cID":"bobby_22","name":"Bobby","description":"","data":[{"id":"276","image":"\/image\/BossJimG_01.jpg","thumb":"\/image\/thumb\/BossJimG_01.jpg","title":"BossJimG 01","description":"","link":"","date":"2016-08-23 16:00:42","views":4,"likes":0,"websize":[1400,1400],"thumbsize":[300,300]},{"id":"277","image":"\/image\/gw003.jpg","thumb":"\/image\/thumb\/gw003.jpg","title":"Gw003","description":"","link":"","date":"2016-08-23 16:00:53","views":1,"likes":0,"websize":[1920,1080],"thumbsize":[533,300]},{"id":"279","image":"\/image\/OscarLake.jpg","thumb":"\/image\/thumb\/OscarLake.jpg","title":"OscarLake","description":"","link":"","date":"2016-08-23 16:01:56","views":3,"likes":0,"websize":[697,497],"thumbsize":[421,300]},{"id":"278","image":"\/image\/IMG_20160823_114316.jpg","thumb":"\/image\/thumb\/IMG_20160823_114316.jpg","title":"IMG 20160823 114316","description":"","link":"","date":"2016-08-23 16:01:48","views":3,"likes":0,"websize":[1646,2200],"thumbsize":[300,401]}]}]; GmediaGallery_22 = jQuery('#GmediaGallery_22').gmAfflux([content, settings]); }); Bobby Bobby BossJimG 01Gw003OscarLakeIMG 20160823 114316   Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

An Interview with Jason Batt Jason Batt is the Creative and Editorial Director for the 100 Year Starship project founded by NASA and DARPA. And he happened into this role by chance, and his love for the stars and what possibilities the future may hold. Through this project, Jason founded the Annual Canopus Award for Excellence in Interstellar Writing which covers fiction as well as nonfiction works. In addition to the organizations and boards he belongs to, Jason also writes. His early work includes a teen near-fantasy novel called Young Gods; and over the years, he has written many short fiction stories. In this episode of The Geeked Life, Jason and I cover not only his involvement with NASA, we share our mutual admiration for recent developments in interstellar travel and consider the challenges they face. Then, we go on to talk about the honesty that the science community injects into today's TV and movies. Jason and I geek out session over new technology, and projects that are on the cusp of public consumption. His excitement for the stars and the way Jason talks about it will get you a little amped. Won't you join us as we gush over the advancements humans have made over the last 60 years. Find Jason Batt Website | Twitter For more information 100 Years Starship | Canopus Award Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter

 An Interview with Jaym Gates Jaym Gates an an accomplished editor, writer, promoter, publicist, and PR guru. Her talents and work ethic proceed her, so much so that many writers in the Science Fiction community look to her to give their latest pieces a once over. She is the PR Officer for the Science Fiction Writers of America. Jaym is also a staple at conventions; She is usually sitting at the big table on numerous panels, or participating in impromptu gatherings outside of convention campuses. She enjoys writing stories of mystical reality, and Special Operation Warfare genres (often mixing the two), as well as how she describes, "weird" subjects. Jaym and I cover many topics, including how to navigate busy Cons, the life of a person using ADHD to their advantage rather than a disability, and the need for legendary stories in comics to shift into today's society. Come, and listen in as I chat with Jaym Gates, Professional Plate Spinner, Wrangler of Writers.   Follow Jaym Gates! Website | Twitter   Intro/Outro - Boss Jim Gettys - Handy Street Sessions - 651 iTunes | Amazon | CDBaby | Spotify Twitter