Invincible

Movie Madness: Week Nine

Invincible (Hulu, 2021)

From last week’s review of Netflix’s Arcane, we thought it is only fair to go over another show that came out of nowhere in 2021. Invincible, based on the comic published from 2003 to 2018, was adapted into its first season on Hulu. Its surprisingly gruesome fight scenes, adult themes, and mystery as to ‘who killed the guardians’ were what hooked its audience. Though the animation for this show was nothing stellar, the Hannah Barbera animation style (limited in movements) gave this show charm similar to that of the old DC animated series. You could really tell where they put the budget in when you see some of the fight scenes later in the show. Overall, the storyline and voice acting really makes the show shine. (Especially J.K. Simmons Omni man). However, when the animation is given the attention it deserves, (final fight) it really makes you wonder why marvel cant do something more like this.

Final Thoughts

How did you feel about the adult themes in Invincible?

Cam

My favorite type of superhero content includes violence, so I really enjoyed the adult themes in Invincible. Just seeing Omni-Man go ham made me go “YOOOOOOOO”

Eric

I enjoyed the more adult themes within the show. I thought it was pretty refreshing to see the animation be a lot more gruesome with some of its scenes.

Lauren

I really wish we could have more animated shows like this. We need more adult animation so it can finally be seen to be more than a medium for younger audiences to enjoy. Shows like Invincible and Arcane are setting a promising path.


Akira

Movie Madness: Week Seven

Akira (Hulu, 1988 )

Based on the 6 volume manga Akira, this cyberpunk action film directed by Katsuhiro Otomohemed has amazing scenery, world-building, complex character relations, and Cel animation. I can not tell you the number of times we were speechless from the horrific brutality and realistic movements of the characters in this film. The flow of the animation really did not hold back any movement expressed by the characters. The expressions were stretched to exaggerate and perfectly sold the voice acting. Overall, the movie was breathtaking to watch… However, seeing the ratings below- something seems off. Our viewing party was very confused by the end of this film. As we watched the movie, there was a constantly reiterated statement (what the fuck) as the story progressed. Perhaps we should’ve read the manga to better fill in the bits we missed. Maybe we should’ve watched it when our brains all could focus… Most likely we are just idiots. If you like a complex and mysterious story with nostalgic anime art and movement- this might be an interesting watch.

Final Thoughts

Would you suggest this movie to people who are as unfamiliar with Akira?

Cam

The backgrounds and movement were really well-done in the movie, but the facial expressions were incredibly cursed most of the time. Also, I had no idea what was going on in the story. If you were to watch it, I would suggest watching it with someone who knows what the plot is, or else you’re going to likely be very confused as to what the Frankenstein babies are.

Eric

How about no?

Lauren

Unless you have read the manga or have someone who knows what’s going on to watch it with you- no.

Over The Garden Wall

Movie Madness: Week One

Over The Garden Wall

2014 Hulu

Over the Garden Wall was a late find for me but overall made quite the impression. Overall the animation is what you would expect from a cartoon originally aired on Cartoon Network: stiffer and less fluid than what you normally see in animated features. What really puts over the Garden Wall in such a peculiar and interesting spot is the storytelling and lore behind the characters and world-building.

Final Thoughts:

What did you like about Over the Garden Wall?

Cam

Greg is the best character. I watch it for him. Also, the gorilla was epic

Eric

With Over the Garden Wall I liked the animation and how visually pleasing and detailed the environments were, and the humor in some of the scenes.

Lauren

subtle linking and messages hinted at throughout the show. It gave the show more mystery and more reason to rewatch.