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Books of Epic Proportions

Dan Brown. J.K. Rowling. Tom Clancy.

And now J.J. Abrams apparently.

Reading books is still a popular leisure activity, despite how it may pale in comparison to venturing off to the movie theater to see the next big blockbuster sensation. The bottom line is that people enjoy stories of all genres with varying temptations and hooks. One day it may be action or adventure, the next could be drama and romance and the weekend may be primed for mystery or humor. The imagination has no limitations and is, therefore, eternally receptive to stories of all variations and styles.

In recent years, the word, “epic” has flown into our lexicon as nearly the same speed as Superman himself. There was even an animated film titled, “Epic” released earlier this year. While book releases rarely create epic fanfare or global pandemonium, there was one yesterday that just might expand literature into an unseen dimension of creativity.

Famed filmmaker J.J. Abrams, who is prepping the Disney reboot of “Star Wars,” had his book (co-written with established writer Doug Dorst) debut to the public yesterday. The title of the nearly 500-page mystery, “S,” may be the beginning of a new style and era of creative writing.

Yesterday, it was J.J. Abrams releasing an original novel. Who will be next? Steven Spielberg? James Cameron? Kathryn Bigelow?

Dare I dream for an original novel by Christopher Nolan?

There is no singular style, method, genre or process to writing, acting, directing and producing an epic blockbuster. There are unequivocal similarities, no doubt: original story, great characters, plot twists, big, yet believable action for the setting, stunning cinematography, hints of ambiguity, etc. But each crew has done it differently with a certain trademark.

Imagine this formula translated into an original novel that reads like an epic Hollywood movie that instinctively provokes intrigue and that relentlessly illustrates vivid scenes in our minds like the flow of some of our favorite movies?

Incredible books with the similar qualities listed above have and are being written. However, the scale of these literary adventures, mysteries, romances, etc. would be new with a particular cast of writers.

Try to envision a movie in IMAX with a powerfully unforgettable soundtrack somehow captured and placed within the binding restraints of a book.

There is a grandiose expectation with J.J. Abrams’ book because of his acclaimed cinematic skill set and storytelling accomplishments behind the camera. People will be expecting that “it” factor that will definitively distinguish “S” above the other available mysteries on the shelf.

Adapting popular books into movies is a common practice in Hollywood. And these scripts usually sound as if it were penned by an author instead of a screenwriter. The pace and style of the dialogue and the patience paid to character development is discernible. It’s not always absolutely good or bad, but it certainly is noticeable to the audience.

Last year, in late November, director Christopher Nolan made a rare public appearance to participate in a solo forum in New York City with a small audience to discuss his current, “Dark Knight” trilogy, his past movies and his then upcoming role in “The Man of Steel.” In fact, it happened on a Wednesday. Due to a contradictory statement given to me about a conflict at work that Wednesday and following Thursday, I had to refrain from securing one of those rare tickets when one was remarkably available.

I digress.

Christopher Nolan had agreed to answer a few questions from fans and/or attendees during this gathering. The question I submitted was essentially this: “Have you ever created your own original superhero with a corresponding universe and enemy(ies)? If so, who is it? What are his or her superhero powers? If not, would you ever be interested in such a venture?”

I was interested in not only my question, but all of the questions, plus his responses of course.

Maybe he read my question, maybe he didn’t. But if he did and the answer is yes, the possibilities and excitement among his fans would be difficult to contain.

The aura that surrounds “S” was palpable the moment I held it in my hands. There is a unique power and influence that radiates and thrills from the work of creative cinematic storytellers. Imaginations simply run wild with the stories they tell.

I just hope more will soon put it in writing.

Nolan…Christopher Nolan

Each actor who has portrayed the legendarily iconic James Bond (007) has done so with his own degree of vigor and personality that are exclusive to the most powerful, and ironically, most famous secret agent in the world.

2012 marked the 50th Anniversary of the Bond Franchise in movies, starring the character written into the world by Ian Fleming. The 23rd and most recent cinematic adventure was expertly titled, “Skyfall.” It earned more than $1 billion worldwide and was a sensational return to the top of the movie surface from the financial abyss the franchise found itself in a few years ago.

James Bond is back and not just in Hollywood.

The prospect of epic movie director (and Brit) Christopher Nolan directing the next 007 movie, sans any potential scheduling conflicts, has intrigued Bond fans because of his treatment to Bruce Wayne in the Batman trilogy and his producing role in the upcoming, “Man of Steel.” Not to mention his visually stunning and overwhelming mind-bender known as, “Inception.” The door in the theater showing the premiere of the 24th 007 movie is slightly cracked with a sliver of light and noise emanating from it with presumed hints of the most epic adventure in James Bond history.

Fans are already “air-violining” and orchestrating their own Hans Zimmer treatment in their imaginations. James Bond would very likely be thrown onto the biggest stage of his life.

However, reports are swirling that the once not interested “Skyfall” director Sam Mendes is in negotiations to direct two more Bond films. Full disclosure: Mendes did a fantastic job with “Skyfall.” It was a great movie with a great villain! And yet, the prospect of Nolan sitting in the director’s chair for the legendary franchise still intrigues with a feeling that James Bond would be taken to another level…

For one thing, Nolan would have the right 007, “reporting for duty.”    

Daniel Craig is the strongest and most emotionally raw and conflicted James Bond the character has ever known. In modern film, our heroes are no longer assumed to be the strongest or to act with near perfection. Audiences want to see and feel strength, heartbreak, love, speed, struggles, intelligence, wit, flirting and, above all, humanizing qualities. For better or worse, this is the reality. Fans want to be shown that the adventures on screen could happen in the chaotic world we populate today by someone who lives in the same world we inhabit. They want to see familiar streets, recognizable landmarks and buildings, crowds of people, cars, markets, etc., all while following one of the most luxurious lifestyles of any spy in history.

We want to believe that 007 could, at some point, dash past us in an Aston Martin or sprint through a crowded sporting event in the street to catch the bad guy. The likelihood needs to exist where he can be broken down at moments, both physically, mentally and emotionally. In some cases, these bruises, in whatever form, carry-over for a period of time and, at some point, have to be confronted and dealt with in some way. Three movies in, Daniel Craig has achieved this rare feat.

With the ingredients of throwing in a flawed hero, destined for greatness, who has had to overcome a lifetime of loneliness, heartbreak and confusion, using the real world as his stage, creating an enemy with a sinister yet mesmerizing  intellect, big explosions, luxurious surroundings, beautiful women, conflicting relationships, Michael Cain, and a richly complex and original story, the top-shelf lists of chefs have to include and feature master chef Christopher Nolan.

And, Nolan has stated publicly how he is a big fan of James Bond. The reason for mentioning this is that 007 would not be a résumé builder for him, but instead a passion and honor.

The hypothesizing/wishful thinking of contemplating the story, characters and their developments, casting, settings, soundtrack, enemies, etc. of a Nolan-directed Bond film will come in a future post. The very prospect sure does conjure up an “epic” aura…

For now, we can only dream…and then dream again…

An Idea for a Super Premiere

Moore, Oklahoma will never be the same after the EF-5 tornado tore through with unfathomable destruction. But, the people and community will heal in time. They are proving to be extraordinarily resilient and they will rebuild, despite the fact the memories of this tragedy will never simply be seen in a rear-view mirror. Still, it will get better. And yet, what would probably help at this point, beyond treasure chest after treasure chest of money and comfort for the people who lost everything, including loved ones, are perhaps a few little glimmers of inspiration and help for afar.

The clean-up and rehabilitation of the town will be non-stop for years. In the midst of all that is occurring, I have a suggestion for something to take place about three-three and a half weeks from today. I propose that Warner Bros. and everybody involved (cast, crew, director, producers, marketers, studio heads, etc.) in “Man of Steel” visit Moore, Oklahoma for a weekend and help in any way possible. This would involve cleaning, building, searching, consoling and anything and everything that the town needs. In one area would be director Zack Snyder lifting heavy metal of a store with members of the community to producer Christopher Nolan helping to clean up a street unrecognizable now to families to Amy Adams and the ‘man of steel’ himself Henry Cavill moving rubble and offering comfort to families (especially children) in another area. This pattern of generosity would be widespread throughout the entire area affected by the tornado.

People helping people.

Then, on the night the highly anticipated movie was scheduled to premiere to the world, Warner Bros. would bring in a giant projection screen to a cleared field or area where everybody from Moore, Oklahoma, its many outside helpers and the actors, producers, writers, grips, executives, etc. would disperse throughout the crowd to watch on blankets and/or grandstand seats to watch “Man of Steel” for the first time anywhere in the world. There would be complimentary popcorn, drinks, food, you name it with “Man of Steel” packaging. If this weekend and movie premiere could offer the people of the tornado-ravaged community time to temporarily escape from their reality, then it would be a success.

It’s important to note that this event would not be publicized to the public before it occurs, but secretly arranged between the studio and the local government. In essence, it would be a complete surprise for the citizens of Moore, Oklahoma!

Movies are meant, in part, to offer the audience a time to escape, dream and to be inspired. Maybe what the men, women and children in this town needs is Superman. The character of Clark Kent was raised in the Midwest. In many ways, he’s the perfect superhero/savior for this community right now. This event could also give them some assurance that they are not alone and that people for all over do care well beyond the few days of initial media coverage by the networks.

To “Man of Steel” & Warner Bros.: Even if only for a day or two…even if only for a couple of hours, show the people of Moore, Oklahoma the new movie of the greatest superhero of all-time…all the while showing them what hope and spreading goodness to our fellow men, women and children looks like off the big screen.

“It’s not an ‘S.’ On my world, it means hope.”

P.S. A super big check would be a nice gesture as well! “The Clark Kent School” sounds pretty cool!

Or, just put the the Superman “S” on the front of a rebuilt school. How’s that for inspiration.

“Did You See That Message in Kryptonian?”

Two billboards were recently updated in Los Angeles, with one featuring cryptic Kryptonian symbols and the other revealing a distinguishable Superman “S” in the forefront of a static-like background. What does this mean?

man of steel-billboard(Supermanhomepage.com)

Most presume social media will remain in our psyche for the foreseeable future, yet the specifics to how this global phenomenon will continually evolve remain ambiguous. The recent billboards that promote the surefire summer blockbuster “Man of Steel” have proven a few things. First, the term “viral” is still relevant in our lexicon and carries with it tremendous power. The newest Superman movie has superseded being just a film, but has instead transcended into an experience. Second, scripts that are driven by great writing and clever plot twists are rewarded by fans of all levels (Some remakes have proven to qualify for this category). Third, portrayals by A-List actors and actresses of cherished characters create a nearly palpable buzz with an intrigued population that spans multiple generations.

People like to feel connected with movies in more than a casual fashion. This brand of fan, with Superman as a prime example, opens a space for filmmakers to create a journey that extends beyond two-two and a half hours in a movie theater.

The build-up for the release of “Man of Steel” is becoming quite grand in nature. The marketing that has accelerated for this massive and quintessential summer adventure is geared to spread like wildfire among interested fans through various communication lanes within the social media realm as well as traditional outlets. Warner Bros. wants people to know that “Man of Steel” is not your average remake.

They want General Zod’s pursuit of Kal-El (Clark Kent, Superman) to seem real, as if this good versus evil clash on Earth could happen.

We are part of the movie now, listening to the dire warning from Krypton’s General Zod, as well as trying to solve the billboard’s cryptic message. It’s been determined that June 14th signifies much more than a premiere date. We are now connected to this story. In fact, this is what screenplay writer David S. Goyer imagined along with producer Christopher Nolan in developing the script. Goyer commented on remaking the most epic superhero story when he was at the Rome Fiction Fest for his Starz project “Da Vinci’s Demons” several months ago.

The excerpt was part of the Screenrant online article by Andrew Dyce, “David S. Goyer Says ‘Man of Steel’ Will Be ‘Realistic’ Like Nolan’s ‘Batman.’

“…but in working on this reboot we are thinking about what would happen if a story like this really happened. How would people react to this? What impact would the presence of Superman in the real world have?”

On April 5th, fans reacted very positively to “Jurassic Park” in 3-D. It appears as if “Man of Steel,” with its engaging promotions, is also providing another dimension for fans to get themselves closer to the movie.

You could call it Super-Dimensional.