I can’t believe the year is almost over. It was one hell of a year, but before the New Year rings [editor’s note: Well, just after, because I was sick and couldn’t get the post up last week; sorry Andrew.], I think it’s important to take a step back and look at all of the comic book (and comic book related) films that came out. After all, in some ways looking back on the films I reviewed can be like one night stands. Sometimes I’ll look back and say, “what the hell was I thinking?” Other times I’ll look back and find that it was much better than I thought it was. So here’s the films of 2011 and my quick second thoughts on them.
For the theater, it had just enough kicks to be mediocre. The 3-D, while pointless, had some moments. Jay Chou was great, and the action scenes were entertaining on the silver screen. However, would I watch it at home or again? No. On a second view or on the small screen, it’s either bad or terrible (depending on how you like Seth Rogen humor.)
It was decent, but it definitely wasn’t Marvel’s best. Wasn’t a great plot, but the action and special effects were the saving grace (yes, I know reviewers shouldn’t say that. So sue me.). However, it’s a great sampler for Thor 2 (hopefully) and The Avengers.
Priest
Yet to be reviewed. The visuals and design look really interesting, but I have a gut feeling I will be severely disappointed by this. Not to mention that I’m getting sick of vampires.
This was one of those films that exceeded my expectations and kicked ass. Yes, I know that there were two people (who shall not be named) that disliked it/had issues with it. But I liked it and I thought it was the second best X-Men film (behind X2). And for those of you who say it’s bad on continuity issues, well if continuity is an issue with storytelling, perhaps you should stop reading Marvel and DC comics (especially X-Men). Rock and roll. Deal with it.
Another one of those films that’s decently entertaining on the silver screen, but mediocre (or less than, depending on your viewpoint) on the small screen/second viewing. Some nice points like (some of) the special effects and the action, but DC has a long way to catch up with Marvel when it comes to movies.
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Fine, make your snarky comment. But you know what? For what it was, I enjoyed it on the big screen. Have no desire to see it again, but I got just enough kicks and it (hopefully) wrapped everything nicely. Plus, it didn’t hurt that I was extra relieved that it was better than Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
Captain America: The First Avenger
Now that’s a superhero film. The best comic book movie of the year. Awesome action, great story, empathetic performance by Chris Evans, and nostalgic cinematography. If you haven’t seen it yet, see it.
Decent, but ultimately disappointing. Especially considering all the potential it had. If I want an alien invasion, I’ll see Independence Day, and if I want a western, I’ll see Once Upon a Time in the West. However, you can watch it. Just don’t expect much from it.
The Smurfs
Haven’t seen it yet. I will get around to it eventually…after I put forks into my eyes. I suppose I shouldn’t be complaining after seeing The Asylum films and those Christmas specials. But still….
Haven’t seen the film, but Aaron Nicewonger did. And looking at his review, it looked like I didn’t miss out on much (and he’s a big Conan fan). Too bad, because the franchise has a ton of potential for another great film. Guess we’ll have to wait around a few more decades….
And there you go. I can’t say it was the best year for comic book films (or films in general). There wasn’t something as critically acclaimed (or overrated) as The Dark Knight, a phenomenon like Batman 89, or a game changer such as Spider-Man. But still, there were some good films, and this certainly wasn’t the worst year for films. With that being said, though, I think 2012 is going to be an amazing year for films, and a groundbreaking one at that. Why? Well, you’ll have to tune in next week for that.
Andrew Hudson
ahudson@comicattack.net
@Hudsonian
I didn’t see all of these, but I agree that Captain America and X-Men: First Class were among the top of the heap.
Awesome write-up.
I still disagree with you on “First Class”.
BTW, am I one of the people that shall not be named?
LOL.
I’m totally excited for all the awesome movies coming out this new year!
Can’t wait to see ’em all, and of course write about ’em and talk about ’em with you!
Thor was great. I still need to see a few of these though. Good stuff dude.
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Thor was amazing.
Priest, I haven’t seen. I don’t really wanna.
I will happily admit to liking most of Green Lantern.
I LOVED Captain America.
I loved Cowboys And Aliens.
I refuse to ever see The Smurfs.
And Conan….. well the less said the better. uuuuuuughhh.
Oh, and I hate hate HATE HAAATE The Green Hornet.