tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89244035871641640442024-03-05T04:57:49.388-05:00Batson's BlogI'm a writer in Charlotte, NC. On my blog you'll find columns, reviews, and random thoughts that just need to be released from my brain.
If you have a blog too, let me know about it! It'll give me some reading material.Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.comBlogger338125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-12799287867694301222023-01-09T10:07:00.001-05:002023-01-09T10:07:00.238-05:00My 2023 Royal Rumble Wish List<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDITcJYjyL3tkrq8xK518BpSoNJh5ae6TEirAUg2JZEtCAigUN9Hektq1xPo8TLlLbTvP15myMOA6Qm3Iz8EINdmqZT25S9blE4bFI_nYObVTrQng-jD824q98SCuR-Hf-A7VfMMv5MS4hITckDvVxG_MbFETSCg7jYn7fs6dxtFwOfu2eW__aR6IJTA/s1128/RumbleWishlistLogo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="1128" height="116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDITcJYjyL3tkrq8xK518BpSoNJh5ae6TEirAUg2JZEtCAigUN9Hektq1xPo8TLlLbTvP15myMOA6Qm3Iz8EINdmqZT25S9blE4bFI_nYObVTrQng-jD824q98SCuR-Hf-A7VfMMv5MS4hITckDvVxG_MbFETSCg7jYn7fs6dxtFwOfu2eW__aR6IJTA/w400-h116/RumbleWishlistLogo.png" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Surprise entrants in the Royal Rumble are always one of the highlights of that event. Sometimes, WWE management lets the fans down by failing miserably at the booking. 2020, in particular, was an awful year for the men's Royal Rumble. Edge was the big surprise return, and that was definitely awesome, but no other surprises (big or small) happened in that match.</p>I'm not entirely sure what will happen at this year's Royal Rumble. It's the first Rumble under Triple H's management (assuming that <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-01-05/wwe-s-former-ceo-mcmahon-considering-sale-of-company-wsj-says?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=socialflow-organic&utm_content=business&cmpid=socialflow-twitter-business">Vince McMahon doesn't regain creative control</a> before then). Really, anything could happen. I'm assuming Shane McMahon won't be an entrant or involved in any of the planning, but Bad Bunny, Logan Paul, The Rock, or John Cena could all show up.<br /><br />I'm assuming Cody Rhodes returns, but that's more of an expected surprise. I would honestly not mind if he didn't take part in the Rumble and showed up the following night on Raw, or a few days later on Smackdown, to challenge whichever champion has their dance card open for Wrestlemania.<br /><br />Will someone like Randy Orton, R-Truth, Rick Boogs, A.J. Styles, or Robert Roode return from injuries sooner than expected? Will any famous Texans make their way down the aisle for a hometown pop? Shawn Michaels, Bradshaw, Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Stevie Ray, Booker T, and Chavo Guerrero Jr are all from Texas. I doubt WWE would use Steve Austin or Taker for an unadvertised Rumble return. Wrestlemania would be more likely, but I doubt they'll wrestle there ever again either. The others? I wouldn't be surprised. Even Shawn Michaels. He has a long history with the Rumble.<br /><br />There are a lot of possibilities in the women's Royal Rumble, too. Jacqueline, Sharmell, Kaitlyn, Roxanne Perez, Michelle McCool, Raquel (she's certainly going to be in it this year) are all from Texas. There are other x-factors when it comes to the ladies, though.<br /><br />B-Fab and Scarlett haven't wrestled a match in WWE yet, but they could enter the match. We haven't seen Carmella, Aliyah, or Doudrop for a while. There are plenty of women on the NXT roster who could make a main roster debut, too.<br /><br />Heck, maybe Mickie James shows up again, with or without the Knockouts Title. If she loses to Jordynne Grace at Hard to Kill next week, she could 'retire' from Impact and have another run in WWE. Triple H does seem to be a fan of Mickie's work. If she wins the Knockouts Title, it could be the second year in a row that Mickie walks to the ring as the Knockouts Women's Champion.<br /><br />Then there's always the possibility of a Naomi or Sasha Banks / Mercedes Moné appearing. Certainly, a Mercedes appearance would be a wild thought, but Triple H's management style is different than Vince's. He'd definitely get the wrestling world talking if some kind of one-off deal allowed Mercedes to compete in the Rumble the same month that <a href="https://twitter.com/njpwworld/status/1610559709492449280">she showed up in New Japan Pro Wrestling</a> and possibly in AEW. Or, if Mercedes hasn't signed anywhere yet, maybe she does debut <a href="https://twitter.com/AEW/status/1610827356150632449">in AEW as Saraya's tag team partner</a> as a one-off match and then returns to WWE on a full-time basis. It's doubtful, but anything can happen.<br /><br />Speaking of that, here's my wish list for the men's Rumble this year:<br /><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEcD2g4gyIvotQhtO0cy3pbVQvLIjFb_NyPMvbAliSHXDFcJG_JJWgEnJPWN7-qJXy1IokvmodMkm_yoI73SQMASBvVMHC1iN3__w5_72o1sD_SzWetQOZiDxvljU9bON5WOcCejTCEB8_4DTNx5ILlDYFxi0fNpHKTyHxPc_JCudonvLJENmcKiqKQ/s908/1m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023NoblewNidia.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPEcD2g4gyIvotQhtO0cy3pbVQvLIjFb_NyPMvbAliSHXDFcJG_JJWgEnJPWN7-qJXy1IokvmodMkm_yoI73SQMASBvVMHC1iN3__w5_72o1sD_SzWetQOZiDxvljU9bON5WOcCejTCEB8_4DTNx5ILlDYFxi0fNpHKTyHxPc_JCudonvLJENmcKiqKQ/w181-h200/1m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023NoblewNidia.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Jamie Noble</b> (maybe even with Nidia?) - This return already happened in December. Well, kind of. Jamie made his in-ring return to WWE at a live event in his home state of West Virginia. WWE produced a segment for it on WWE.com. Now, I know Noble won't be returning on a full-time basis, but a return in the Royal Rumble doesn't seem out of the question, especially since he is obviously in good enough shape to wrestle a match at a live event. <br /><br />The Rumble should be an easier appearance because he likely wouldn't be going from start to finish. Jamie would get a good pop, and, if he was somehow able to make it to the final three, I have a feeling he'd be over in a big way. Wrestling fans love underdog stories. We saw that with Santino in his Elimination Chamber match. Jamie is well-known enough and talented enough to pull something like that off. <span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><br /></b></span><div><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8sudEbOTBSDNdKc5l7k-J37pf2hL4HTvbHOTyTT4gnLh02FXeZ3wH3bimAWnpvIIm2378xnZ9rjfNh9FOyU3JgfWLK0dX9Fb6eYMhRjvNRYZNvox4EMa-vQFLlIe5iVMDPHpgS-FufWVYQHElLEIRW5eLXQuJqke8sqtSRcKe66Z1Ym2jcp9-IQQWA/s908/WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Carlito.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR8sudEbOTBSDNdKc5l7k-J37pf2hL4HTvbHOTyTT4gnLh02FXeZ3wH3bimAWnpvIIm2378xnZ9rjfNh9FOyU3JgfWLK0dX9Fb6eYMhRjvNRYZNvox4EMa-vQFLlIe5iVMDPHpgS-FufWVYQHElLEIRW5eLXQuJqke8sqtSRcKe66Z1Ym2jcp9-IQQWA/w181-h200/WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Carlito.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Carlito</b> - Yeah, we saw him return already in the 2021 Royal Rumble, but that was a COVID return. Showing up in front of 70,000 fans in the Alamodome would be an entirely different experience than the 2021 return. I wish WWE had saved his return for a Rumble in front of a crowd, but they didn't, so I can only hope that he returns at another Royal Rumble event at some point. This year is as good a year as any. If John Cena is involved, WWE could play up Carlito's history with him.<br /><br />Carlito hasn't really interacted with a lot of the newer WWE superstars either. It'd be nice to see him throw punches against the Usos, Dominik Mysterio, The Miz, A.J. Styles, Austin Theory, and Seth Rollins. For anyone who hasn't kept up with Carlito, the man maintains his health. He's in incredible shape, so the Royal Rumble wouldn't be out of the question, at all, for him. He could enter and maybe even last until closer to the end, giving fans the idea that he could end up winning it. It wouldn't just be a legend making a cameo. Carlito is one of the few former superstars who could return and legitimately go toe-to-toe in the match with some of WWE's top stars today.</div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzMX3V4m8uHo9eIP-lAmvsTmslMQe4Tq29gMnmSgwnNBNiAW8U3DpKPgXGFHMOsT7jU2-fpxFzIw-7xHMOByyPnrrdXcTF9NwXHTGBkdl_sVV8wncIRpbfPP1xTgu6UAefzGwAjmAk32dKBttAP-jfCGuO7AwR28mcfTmau1t16Tn9uUiUbi4lHdSKA/s908/3m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023ChrisMasters.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzMX3V4m8uHo9eIP-lAmvsTmslMQe4Tq29gMnmSgwnNBNiAW8U3DpKPgXGFHMOsT7jU2-fpxFzIw-7xHMOByyPnrrdXcTF9NwXHTGBkdl_sVV8wncIRpbfPP1xTgu6UAefzGwAjmAk32dKBttAP-jfCGuO7AwR28mcfTmau1t16Tn9uUiUbi4lHdSKA/w181-h200/3m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023ChrisMasters.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></span><b>Chris Masters</b> - Another wrestler from the same time Carlito was around is Chris Masters. You can't say he wasn't pushed in WWE because I, for one, was very tired of seeing the Masterlock Challenge. It was something that went on for months! Masters didn't ever win gold in WWE, and was almost like a new toy that WWE got tired of after it was taken out of the plastic case. His most memorable moments may be when he was insulted by Triple H for slimming down and when he broke Stevie Richards' nose.<br /><br />Masters went on to compete for independent companies but never made his way to Impact or AEW. Mostly, he's worked for companies overseas or in California promotions. He's currently signed to NWA, but I'm assuming NWA would allow a one-time appearance? Chris Masters was never my favorite wrestler, but I think his work improved since he left WWE, and having a final WWE moment would be nice for him and his fans.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUPG4rDv-K-FNc2id91SfehOv2uJpNZG17m2EmhKonoJLdqLg-7OxhfltY_O8O9MAq7ncYSxt7B3lyxAdpOTywPgTciJjT4Bpmay2EN6e9MaOq1WdmI7jSFMeclF_NSvmDp0BMe8h4oJRO4FcksT7N3k8-Pi_14vkYpUcKQUzq2BjVCtcMQ9Z6Z-5RQ/s908/2m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023JushinLiger.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUPG4rDv-K-FNc2id91SfehOv2uJpNZG17m2EmhKonoJLdqLg-7OxhfltY_O8O9MAq7ncYSxt7B3lyxAdpOTywPgTciJjT4Bpmay2EN6e9MaOq1WdmI7jSFMeclF_NSvmDp0BMe8h4oJRO4FcksT7N3k8-Pi_14vkYpUcKQUzq2BjVCtcMQ9Z6Z-5RQ/w181-h200/2m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023JushinLiger.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Jushin Thunder Liger</b> - An absolute wrestling legend, Liger has been part of the NJPW roster since 1984. He retired in 2020, so the chances of him showing up are slim to none, and he is more known for his NJPW and WCW work, but he does have a history with WWE.<br /><br />Liger competed for the WWF in 1990. He also wrestled Tyler Breeze at Takeover: Brooklyn in 2015. Finally, in 2020, Liger was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. I would worry that some fans wouldn't know who he was, but the Rumble crowd is filled with avid wrestling fans, so I'm sure he'd get a good pop in front of them.</div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;" /></span><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span style="color: #222222;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBI2FWhYdfd7K_6GTurMQ17G47F2ryNe4pMGm79DtPyq1ZkQPUgn0Qmco_rTRJ3XMwg4xWAvExb8OVX6e2YQSOB0OhEjfMGsG0AvZuUybvahb1NwIcFSvA3Nf_BCk4BzmAUy238nrX1UrP0Xo3kYohPZk_yyUonne2lpAfh3wfNeBdqS5AVfoNo-NHA/s908/WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023DLo.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRBI2FWhYdfd7K_6GTurMQ17G47F2ryNe4pMGm79DtPyq1ZkQPUgn0Qmco_rTRJ3XMwg4xWAvExb8OVX6e2YQSOB0OhEjfMGsG0AvZuUybvahb1NwIcFSvA3Nf_BCk4BzmAUy238nrX1UrP0Xo3kYohPZk_yyUonne2lpAfh3wfNeBdqS5AVfoNo-NHA/w181-h200/WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023DLo.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>D'Lo Brown</b> - I don't know what kind of shape D'Lo is in right now. He's probably heavier than he was in his prime, but as long as he can do his head shake and maybe comes out in a chest protector, I'll be satisfied. D'Lo was a guy who got over in the Attitude Era and won some prestigious gold, but never made it further than mid-card. He went to Impact and then back to WWE and then back to Impact, so it's not like he's been without work during his career. <br /><br />Like many other wrestlers on this list, D'Lo likely won't end up in the Hall of Fame (unless it's alongside the Nation of Domination), but he still deserves some recognition. Most fans at the Rumble would remember him because fans at The Royal Rumble are hardcore fans. They aren't casual spectators from the local city that is hosting WWE Raw or Smackdown. I don't think he's been seen in WWE since maybe 2008 or 2009, so a D'Lo appearance isn't one fans would probably see coming.</div><div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMhpTcNpKjC2KgOtOGXD7SaCkrRzWPGIuYLObLdG78oEzyKKkKuijg6dCFeD2G3Rd9RCI942JSi4-bUwU2DO_lOb9eTCKVgl5Uepr-_S0n7eQ5FzuTgwsxhA1m3_4qmE_OQ3BjTqYQzi04CWKUy5jSkYNNBaqUYi6GFtALCwpu3LBtbL2HvotROd0EpA/s908/8m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023SteveBlackman.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMhpTcNpKjC2KgOtOGXD7SaCkrRzWPGIuYLObLdG78oEzyKKkKuijg6dCFeD2G3Rd9RCI942JSi4-bUwU2DO_lOb9eTCKVgl5Uepr-_S0n7eQ5FzuTgwsxhA1m3_4qmE_OQ3BjTqYQzi04CWKUy5jSkYNNBaqUYi6GFtALCwpu3LBtbL2HvotROd0EpA/w181-h200/8m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023SteveBlackman.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Steve Blackman</b> - Okay, I watched Steve Blackman since his debut and throughout his entire WWE career. I always wanted to like him. He's a legit tough man and he was always in great shape, but he lacked the charisma to keep me interested. His Head Cheese partnership with Al Snow was OK. His brief alliance with Trish Stratus worked, too. Somehow, none of it stuck. <br /><br />It's 2023, however. Since then, internet fans have grown to appreciate Blackman more than they originally did, mostly because of the stories about him standing up to Bradshaw. He's got somewhat of a cult following now. WWE should give the man a spotlight, even if it's just for a few moments. He's never likely to end up in the Hall of Fame and he's retired from wrestling as far as I know (you're not going to see him work the indy scene or go to AEW or Impact), so a Royal Rumble appearance would cap off his career nicely.</div><div><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3OSpOk6JoF4rxp-9i_gMLJ3fQ0DbdPuWzHmMfvNegJQQcXdhK_BJS6gu3EKXQju7yvRNyclT-BTVp_wGdWIPrqG-gyhNtScA57STNvTG-V64oPlGPMLrX9hicF5HQncX2aY63IVFjM3auE9z3M2qHg_1U2DBQPC9Sspxb8ZQpalf2hQfhxhQ2hjfZQ/s908/5m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Gangrel.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3OSpOk6JoF4rxp-9i_gMLJ3fQ0DbdPuWzHmMfvNegJQQcXdhK_BJS6gu3EKXQju7yvRNyclT-BTVp_wGdWIPrqG-gyhNtScA57STNvTG-V64oPlGPMLrX9hicF5HQncX2aY63IVFjM3auE9z3M2qHg_1U2DBQPC9Sspxb8ZQpalf2hQfhxhQ2hjfZQ/w181-h200/5m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Gangrel.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Gangrel</b> - I said it last year, and I'll say it again this year, I want to see Gangrel return for a quick entry in the Royal Rumble. Number one, he never got as much attention as he should have in his original run. No, he wasn't the best worker in the world, but he was alright in the ring and he had an entertaining act. Two, his entrance is very cool. Hearing the music, seeing him rise up out of the circle of flames, and then do the red mist would be a nice bit of nostalgia. <br /><br />Finally, given Edge teasing a return to his Brood roots earlier in the year, a face-off with Gangrel in the Rumble makes sense creatively. Maybe Gangrel even teams up with some members of The Judgment Day during the Royal Rumble in order to try to eliminate Edge. Of course, that alliance wouldn't last, and Gangrel would be eliminated by one of the members of The Judgment Day.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTvRcm8uUcwakJ-PRgyTlpXKL4zHpryaztPGijSfU4a40nyBQz3qKOPFKOalfFZtNB4x0_4MHR_e6TEL8rE__wZR-5iQPVjD9UVGF6V9Drzg3HbNUajK3A1f8zl6FTlx88_wlEzCD-kpALwM3OC9BZahQnatU-ZKP9gDWJHceNMyzQykeqg9NJe5oEg/s908/9m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023SychoSid.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdTvRcm8uUcwakJ-PRgyTlpXKL4zHpryaztPGijSfU4a40nyBQz3qKOPFKOalfFZtNB4x0_4MHR_e6TEL8rE__wZR-5iQPVjD9UVGF6V9Drzg3HbNUajK3A1f8zl6FTlx88_wlEzCD-kpALwM3OC9BZahQnatU-ZKP9gDWJHceNMyzQykeqg9NJe5oEg/w181-h200/9m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023SychoSid.png" width="181" /></a></div><br />Sycho Sid</b> - It would be cool to see the big man again. He's one wrestler who hasn't worn out his welcome by constantly returning to every single Raw anniversary, Legends Night, or Royal Rumble that occurs. No, Sid has been relatively M.I.A. since he retired from regular in-ring competition.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, we all remember that gruesome injury he had at the WCW Sin pay-per-view in 2001. If you don't remember it, you've probably heard about it or seen it. That was a disgusting looking ankle injury.</div><div><br /></div><div>As far as I know, Sid has rehabbed from that injury, so he should be able to handle a little bit of ring time in the Royal Rumble. Not only would it be an exclamation point on Sid's carer, but it would also give a rub to one of the newcomers (presumably another big guy like Omos or Braun or Damian Priest) when he eliminates Sid from the match.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3XgZ5utQG72EKcbe1EFlniMj9Mth7fhOqD22O-U3EYQJUjU1gpxnqHt0tND0JqPcnOQkvvoNRe7x53S_9oJW6XDZSKCTRG3JjwFvtBKwDwSj6B6UYf3__PTbJYsYVdqqMwaceQh66Pu_5E-2nyYjK4DOImw5SZ_KJ-f4ChP6jDzXekC1i3meqiKmdw/s908/6m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Rikishi.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3XgZ5utQG72EKcbe1EFlniMj9Mth7fhOqD22O-U3EYQJUjU1gpxnqHt0tND0JqPcnOQkvvoNRe7x53S_9oJW6XDZSKCTRG3JjwFvtBKwDwSj6B6UYf3__PTbJYsYVdqqMwaceQh66Pu_5E-2nyYjK4DOImw5SZ_KJ-f4ChP6jDzXekC1i3meqiKmdw/w181-h200/6m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Rikishi.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Rikishi</b> - This is a more contemporary pick than Sid. He's another big man. Big 'Kish hasn't worn out his welcome either. He's had brief appearances with WWE in the past few years, but never any that were on a stage like the Royal Rumble. You don't have to worry about a pop with Rikishi. He'll get one. He could also add some emotion to the match, too.<br /><br />With the Bloodline storyline going, it would be very interesting to see Rikishi step foot inside the ring again, maybe only to be eliminated by one of the Usos, Solo Sikoa, or Sami Zayn. That'd get them some heat!<br /><br />I'm not sure what kind of physical condition Rikishi is in. He may have back pain or bad legs due to his size, but he didn't look to be too bad during his last WWE appearance. Here's hoping he could handle throwing a couple of side kicks, doing a Samoan drop, and being thrown over the top rope. Or should I say, "guided," because nobody is going to be throwing Rikishi over the top rope.</div><div><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFzBoDxge_GdMDV6G11bQTyFLa9kgC5dhxxUYVVT7CpLG80VU2dHoCqhMcv9H1AHGtjUNv8H_hJf0mLsMpAfYiCtkVi1OOFou_P6qmfE6h8PRjRjZMiezCoO9e3JAtjXmWc02g6ooGZpyuqr1gKVZiWXNO_O_LghLLUk9BDkRwzsMrTLmu869pAxNqw/s908/7m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023JTG.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfFzBoDxge_GdMDV6G11bQTyFLa9kgC5dhxxUYVVT7CpLG80VU2dHoCqhMcv9H1AHGtjUNv8H_hJf0mLsMpAfYiCtkVi1OOFou_P6qmfE6h8PRjRjZMiezCoO9e3JAtjXmWc02g6ooGZpyuqr1gKVZiWXNO_O_LghLLUk9BDkRwzsMrTLmu869pAxNqw/w181-h200/7m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023JTG.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>JTG</b> - he made his return just last year as part of Shad Gaspard's Warrior Award acceptance speech at the WWE Hall of Fame, but JTG deserves his own return (maybe leading to an actual contract). He kept his job for year after year when WWE was regularly cutting talent, but, eventually, JTG was released, too.<br /><br />Since then, JTG has actually gotten in better shape than when he was in WWE and continued honing his skills in the NWA and other independent promotions. I'd love to see a Royal Rumble appearance occur as almost a tryout match for him coming back full time because it seems he could handle it. Plus, it would be a nice tribute to Shad and a way of rewarding the strong work ethic that JTG has shown since being released. Hearing 'Brooklyn, Brooklyn' come over the arena speakers would certainly get the crowd to their feet.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtX3tMO8UV1py1HHulN82FU4KWzk-rNGdof7qqF3uw6ClFeqgyw3w47txxedPrm6qLIbBBYtqxwLrP3oDE1iGBM1eXBLvNeQnFrjtkUf0uNggjH2xIKErhpwzsjIauNsaH0-4wkJBCVeFWpiD2BKwf9N2C6LTlpzvYmI1fVBB309bGszVrCCgcOnpseg/s908/4m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023DamienSandow.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtX3tMO8UV1py1HHulN82FU4KWzk-rNGdof7qqF3uw6ClFeqgyw3w47txxedPrm6qLIbBBYtqxwLrP3oDE1iGBM1eXBLvNeQnFrjtkUf0uNggjH2xIKErhpwzsjIauNsaH0-4wkJBCVeFWpiD2BKwf9N2C6LTlpzvYmI1fVBB309bGszVrCCgcOnpseg/w181-h200/4m%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023DamienSandow.png" width="181" /></a></div><br />Damien Sandow</b> - If Cody Rhodes makes his return at the Royal Rumble (he's pretty much got to at this point), then this would be the perfect time and place for Damien Sandow to make an appearance. It doesn't have to be a long-lasting entry, but it makes too much sense not to happen.</div><div><br /></div><div>Damien has history with Cody Rhodes and with The Miz. A Sandow / Miz / Rhodes standoff could be a lot of fun. Who would Damien side with? Maybe he switches allegiances based on who has the upper hand. Or maybe Damien tries to get Cody and The Miz on the same page, working together.</div><div><br /></div><div>Damien doesn't even need to be eliminated by anyone else. I want to see Damien go back to his mimic gimmick. When The Miz gets throw over the top rope and eliminated, Damien needs to throw himself over the top rope as well, eliminating himself from the match. It would be a fun, goofy moment.</div><div><br /></div><div>Damien is currently working with the NWA, but, again, if Billy Corgan is smart, he'd allow a one-time Royal Rumble appearance. It can only get people searching for Damie's most recent work, and then stumbling upon NWA content they probably weren't familiar with before.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I could list 15 more men I'd like to see in the Royal Rumble, including Chavo Guerrero Jr., Santino Marella, Tyson Kidd, Corey Graves, Alex Wright, The Blue Meanie, and X-Pac, but the names above are at the top of my priority list.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now, let's take a look at the women's side of things:</div><div><br /></div><div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zBjz0BqtPdxPJP5kY0IXXNn9UWKkHKYCujZte3bW0duNbg9ryGYebTo3Hn-XwhN8Ofhvn4rdGFNQ2MQo4BrjKCQ5Hqh4ZxFGjtR8hoJTNObK9mcVP9pRioE8fj_VzdhEYZgaRu9AM0YTsGTI__bz2LCjCYPkDrggKjthlDZvKsP0jwnRGCLjRoum-A/s908/4w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Cherry.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-zBjz0BqtPdxPJP5kY0IXXNn9UWKkHKYCujZte3bW0duNbg9ryGYebTo3Hn-XwhN8Ofhvn4rdGFNQ2MQo4BrjKCQ5Hqh4ZxFGjtR8hoJTNObK9mcVP9pRioE8fj_VzdhEYZgaRu9AM0YTsGTI__bz2LCjCYPkDrggKjthlDZvKsP0jwnRGCLjRoum-A/w181-h200/4w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Cherry.png" width="181" /></a></div><br />Cherry</b> - Even though she was only on Smackdown for a couple of years, and she competed for an even shorter time than that, Cherry got over pretty easily when she transitioned from a valet to a wrestler and Michelle McCool's sidekick.</div><div><br /></div><div>Seeing Cherry come out and interact with today's crop of women would make for some entertaining moments. Cherry against Rhea Ripley? That's a contrast in styles. How about the always shy Cherry and the ballsy Shotzi having some kind of interaction? Or Nikki Cross staring down Cherry. Her gimmick clashes with a lot of the modern women, so this return could be a lot of fun to see!<br /><br />Plus, it would be a nicer sendoff than her surprising release in 2008. Cherry is still good friends with Beth Phoenix and Natalya, so I hope they're pushing for her to get a spot one of these years.</div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhc16TqVSCkd3_aHMx-9_whVg3q5bVyxhyHWALxDTGrSog7jt0GXAQOQSVwYCHYTds1lCRfYeVBpxckF9xsjqqmwSHGjxEnRwvcQmzrp-aFDOfS4oz48QgPgv4OLeTvvIllxW7a-DP21UevUJOCVrbbmFhOomJVk5rpCKYDg3eNE1U5-kUF38Uf-CjLg/s908/7w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Nidia.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhc16TqVSCkd3_aHMx-9_whVg3q5bVyxhyHWALxDTGrSog7jt0GXAQOQSVwYCHYTds1lCRfYeVBpxckF9xsjqqmwSHGjxEnRwvcQmzrp-aFDOfS4oz48QgPgv4OLeTvvIllxW7a-DP21UevUJOCVrbbmFhOomJVk5rpCKYDg3eNE1U5-kUF38Uf-CjLg/w181-h200/7w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Nidia.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Nidia</b> - Another character who excelled but didn't get a lot of the spotlight was Nidia. 20-some years later and Nidia is still remembered fondly for her run with Jamie Noble on Smackdown.<br /><br />Nidia was the closest we got to ODB in WWE. Her white trash, redneck, trailer park manners gimmick led to some hilarious segments. When she moved to the Raw roster and competed regularly in the women's division, she got lost in the shuffle. Certainly capable of putting on a good match, Nidia never rose to her full potential. The few times she's been seen after her wrestling retirement, Nidia has been in great shape, so hopefully a Rumble appearance isn't out of the question.<br /><br />Of course, if Nidia and Jamie Noble are both in Rumble matches, Nidia needs to accompany Jamie Noble to the ring. If the women's Royal Rumble happens before the men's Royal Rumble, then Nidia can show up as a surprise in the women's Rumble first, and then still accompany Jamie Noble for the men's Rumble.</div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dk3duuIN7BkgqFpLyBEAvZ2b9von9559m7XQkg8Iek--DCili9M73OSRpm5mgsGIkXmmvtcKZWnSuFdX801uFfcVqN0upjcNB9PiMdIjFkAAoVsQzsSD5kfzyyaYKisxRW2XCacIhPX4LToNwJKtUb6Z6UZ2_StMQxmsr1MWFYfveab5Tnvuh7YpsQ/s908/9w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Alundra.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Dk3duuIN7BkgqFpLyBEAvZ2b9von9559m7XQkg8Iek--DCili9M73OSRpm5mgsGIkXmmvtcKZWnSuFdX801uFfcVqN0upjcNB9PiMdIjFkAAoVsQzsSD5kfzyyaYKisxRW2XCacIhPX4LToNwJKtUb6Z6UZ2_StMQxmsr1MWFYfveab5Tnvuh7YpsQ/w181-h200/9w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Alundra.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Alundra Blayze</b> - She was on my list last year, and she's on it again this year. Alundra Blayze, or Madusa, is a WWE Hall of Famer, she's a three-time champion, and she was involved in every prestigious pro wrestling show or event in the 1990s. Starcade? Yep. Won a title there. Wrestlemania? Retained a championship there. The Tokyo Dome? She wrestled in front of a huge crowd and put on a classic! There's not much she hasn't done. <br /><br />She managed, wrestled, did publicity on major TV talk shows, was featured on posters, and sold merchandise. That was just in her pro wrestling career! Still, Madusa hasn't competed in the Royal Rumble match. She also has never received the proper in-ring sendoff that she deserves. I'm sure Alundra would've received a bigger part in the battle royal at Evolution, but she was still recovering from knee surgery.<br /><br />Now she's healthy, she's signed to a WWE Legends deal, and she wants a final moment or match. It's time for WWE to give that to her, especially if the likes of Rhea, Asuka, Charlotte, Beth, and Natalya are in this year's Royal Rumble match. Alundra wants to wrestle all of them, and she could accomplish that in one night if WWE allows it to happen.</div><div><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCn-rTEaA_3pDe1cOYu1mC0fapM3c08cDV7NlYleUjMqNR-dFgv3JprtxNa1mDP8STWT4Ee1GvOuVcqUA5pKi_y8FOMrbyecn1RsBlAxExhac6P6DvqRtXYMJARt5mDO_F5wrZ-zT4KTY9xva3bLS7qkLNzkuTQXSVxiS3EgzOwktL3SC22NR0foLWg/s908/6w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Madusa.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCn-rTEaA_3pDe1cOYu1mC0fapM3c08cDV7NlYleUjMqNR-dFgv3JprtxNa1mDP8STWT4Ee1GvOuVcqUA5pKi_y8FOMrbyecn1RsBlAxExhac6P6DvqRtXYMJARt5mDO_F5wrZ-zT4KTY9xva3bLS7qkLNzkuTQXSVxiS3EgzOwktL3SC22NR0foLWg/w181-h200/6w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Madusa.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Madusa</b> - Wait, what? Yep, Madusa would be another entrant I'd like to see. Mick Foley competed in the 1998 Royal Rumble as Cactus Jack, Dude Love, and Mankind. There aren't a lot of women who have enough names and gimmicks under their belts to pull off something similar, but Alundra / Madusa could. <br /><br />She could enter as Alundra Blayze earlier on in the match, have a tussle with Nattie and Asuka, perhaps, and then get eliminated. Several minutes later, she shows up as entrant 21, let's say. Now, she can have some interaction with Ronda Rousey, Rhea, Charlotte, and Beth. That would allow Madusa a bit of a break. Let's face it, she hasn't been in the ring for a long time, so she'll probably be gassed if she is in the match for over 10 or 15 minutes. It would also be a bit of a shocker since something like this hasn't been done in the women's Royal Rumble before.<br /><br />If there are no other surprise entrants than Madusa / Alundra this year, then I'd like to see her pull off something like this and take up two spots. I'd be completely satisfied with that. If it's down to a choice: entering as Alundra Blayze or as Madusa, it's Madusa all the way! Sorry, Alundra.</div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSsAboLcD9VwInA7slG1rTWYtrrJrViz5cSDfe4V691y4mzTITAu3my5tUqrA9E0WadrcPhZHV6lf9AFqSfyeJqyMdec1_JAW3c_bzFdYsW0VAw2Sf3uwbcv7m7KNwvR3K3S-Ae0u74tY30mtaGr6CV8J-9frr1kZmIpxUoZa9grDFBDn_-VSKX0_8w/s908/1w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023BethPhoenix.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSsAboLcD9VwInA7slG1rTWYtrrJrViz5cSDfe4V691y4mzTITAu3my5tUqrA9E0WadrcPhZHV6lf9AFqSfyeJqyMdec1_JAW3c_bzFdYsW0VAw2Sf3uwbcv7m7KNwvR3K3S-Ae0u74tY30mtaGr6CV8J-9frr1kZmIpxUoZa9grDFBDn_-VSKX0_8w/w181-h200/1w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023BethPhoenix.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Beth Phoenix</b> - Yeah, Beth has returned before, but she's got more to do this year. There are some scores to settle. She needs to interact with Rhea Ripley after the situation with The Judgment Day and Edge earlier in 2022. I know Beth and Madusa would like to have some in-ring interaction as well. If Madusa is involved as a competitor, then Beth needs to be, too.<br /><br />Plus, Ronda is back. A Beth / Ronda standoff would elicit quite a crowd reaction. I'm sure we'd hear a few "This is Awesome!" chants if they exchanged a few blows. Other ladies on the active WWE roster also look up to Beth, so there would be a list of eager participants who want to share a moment with her in the women's Rumble. Raquel Gonzalez and Aliyah are two of them who have mentioned Beth before. <br /><br />A Royal Rumble appearance by Beth is always welcome, even if it's been done before because, of all the women who come back to compete in the Rumble, Beth is probably the most athletic and still in the best shape.</div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeRwmgzm_F404BZbxg_T__eaX9pF5CejKbJuAVe5u3VggYTAZVSY8N_Oy-47A4npOvCe66fpfKTLccuj1blNk8xlrJduft0AO0HgwBmnxsMsnR6GS8saNNkFA_63duE8_R6U_vUUxNWm-PkfRo8ssc2oTPcwVOUCDA4doX5DF2Ci0EjqCF97WQ2QNPA/s908/3w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023CandiceMichelle.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeRwmgzm_F404BZbxg_T__eaX9pF5CejKbJuAVe5u3VggYTAZVSY8N_Oy-47A4npOvCe66fpfKTLccuj1blNk8xlrJduft0AO0HgwBmnxsMsnR6GS8saNNkFA_63duE8_R6U_vUUxNWm-PkfRo8ssc2oTPcwVOUCDA4doX5DF2Ci0EjqCF97WQ2QNPA/w181-h200/3w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023CandiceMichelle.png" width="181" /></a></div></b></span><b>Candice Michelle</b> - While Candice will never likely end up in the Hall of Fame, she did show a lot of heart and determination, improving a whole heck of a lot during her time in WWE. She improved so much that she was the first Diva Search contestant to be rewarded with a WWE Women's Championship reign.</div><div><br /></div><div>She's got a long history with Beth Phoenix, so much so that Beth thanked Candice in her Hall of Fame acceptance speech. It's true what Beth said there, too. Without Candice and her selling as a babyface, the Glamazon wouldn't have gotten over as the heel character that she was.<br /><br />Candice already retired in a match against good friend Victoria, but Royal Rumble returns don't really nullify retirements. The Rumble is a special night where retirements get thrown out the window. Candice deserves a bit of shine, and the Royal Rumble is the perfect time for that to happen.<span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYHcrlPZl02ySW3FXJiNddaFY9-TqvAO0NUfGQ0MPgeXVJr_y5e9IWRNONtVuZmxU8yWi6XJhK6UmPP6EKLQjXFLoZnS-YsQDtsRrmIZ9CaM1-onMaoKH45A4okYu4wOmU3-yaOOpsZEiH0lFPa8m_YiIW8rxQe41rGSZgOlRlqmxvCKUp-kvhlyRYg/s908/5w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Jazz.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYHcrlPZl02ySW3FXJiNddaFY9-TqvAO0NUfGQ0MPgeXVJr_y5e9IWRNONtVuZmxU8yWi6XJhK6UmPP6EKLQjXFLoZnS-YsQDtsRrmIZ9CaM1-onMaoKH45A4okYu4wOmU3-yaOOpsZEiH0lFPa8m_YiIW8rxQe41rGSZgOlRlqmxvCKUp-kvhlyRYg/w181-h200/5w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Jazz.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Jazz</b> - This is one woman who may never get the acknowledgment she deserves. To be honest, Jazz had a hard time getting over in WWE. She was a heck of a competitor and a good heel against Trish, but Trish's feuds with Molly and Victoria, and Lita got more of a reaction than any of her matches against Jazz. I think that's simply because WWE didn't know how to utilize Jazz. She didn't fit the Diva mold.<br /><br />She was a heel, but not exactly stellar on the mic. Then again, she had to reign it in on the mic, too. In ECW, Jazz dropped some curse words and got the fans riled up as a babyface. <br /><br />There was the concussion lawsuit that Jazz was (or maybe even still is?) part of, too. If that's all been settled, then I think Triple H and Stephanie may be forgiving enough to give Jazz one final return moment in WWE. If WWE allows Jazz to compete in the Rumble, then she's got a chance at ending up in the Hall of Fame one day alongside her fellow women's division workers of that era, Trish, Lita, Jacqueline, Ivory, and Molly Holly.<br /><br />WWE didn't push Jazz enough when she was there, so I'm not sure a Hall of Fame induction will ever happen. That's why a Royal Rumble appearance would be nice for Jazz and her fans. It would let them show her some love that she may not otherwise get the chance to receive.</div><div><div><br style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLL4E6K_h0SjXxkYS5BtTxUqgtRF8u7ua9WzlhytY7nnI17ddIlU89Bt9kE6l9g-AFhjLqeuZS3ukw-MNwcJOWtY4HIm986c9Svq6P3WpyYYzBbYH0URq3DznAMGzkMmE0n4Um-Z1B-5jbKVhEqwfqdRu13MevO0AoRDlW4cJHwXyaAKW3QipsaMkv_w/s908/10w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Sharmell.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLL4E6K_h0SjXxkYS5BtTxUqgtRF8u7ua9WzlhytY7nnI17ddIlU89Bt9kE6l9g-AFhjLqeuZS3ukw-MNwcJOWtY4HIm986c9Svq6P3WpyYYzBbYH0URq3DznAMGzkMmE0n4Um-Z1B-5jbKVhEqwfqdRu13MevO0AoRDlW4cJHwXyaAKW3QipsaMkv_w/w181-h200/10w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Sharmell.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span></span><b>Sharmell</b> - Speaking of Hall of Famers, Sharmell was inducted last year. Personally, I disagreed with that decision. I was a big fan of her in the late '90s, too. She was my favorite valet in WCW. I remember her walking out with The Artist Formerly Known as Prince Iaukea and then Kwee Wee. </div><div><br /></div><div>Her work with Booker T in WWE was entertaining enough as well, but I always wanted to see her compete a little more. Sharmell showed promise while training at the Power Plant in WCW. There are a few clips of her, and she's doing spinning wheel kicks off the second rope.<br /><br />Then came her time in TNA and that horrendous match with Jenna Morasca. After seeing that, I thought, 'OK, maybe she doesn't need to compete in the ring anymore!' WWE may as well make her earn that Hall of Fame spot with a Royal Rumble appearance. It does kind of suit her. It's not a lot of in-ring work, she'd get to mix it up with Bianca Belair, psycho Nikki Cross, Queen Zelina, and others.<br /><br />If Roxanne Perez is in this year's Royal Rumble, then Sharmell needs to be, too. Roxanne trained with Booker T and Sharmell to become a wrestler, so I'm sure they'd like to share the ring together. Since the Rumble is in Texas this year, it's the perfect time for that to happen.</div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #222222; font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjpMDxF97_BqQKxfRiO7XXZyDELZhpCxFBHxXRDGmsyaSwJG9kwiTZTugHKbHW-v1AtcWhUd25h49GEnI2Mkgsg0L8UatJzrrSB-8OHCpdGEkgFhqcFAHVbxfIkTrP1heEeQE6vAu1yTu9bcnkupay3wqxntnirv7AjNm0xV7rS6KFP48Vc-FwrBeig/s908/10w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Layla.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTjpMDxF97_BqQKxfRiO7XXZyDELZhpCxFBHxXRDGmsyaSwJG9kwiTZTugHKbHW-v1AtcWhUd25h49GEnI2Mkgsg0L8UatJzrrSB-8OHCpdGEkgFhqcFAHVbxfIkTrP1heEeQE6vAu1yTu9bcnkupay3wqxntnirv7AjNm0xV7rS6KFP48Vc-FwrBeig/w181-h200/10w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Layla.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span></span><b>Layla</b> - One lady we haven't seen much of since she left WWE back in 2015 is Layla El. The former Diva Search winner transitioned into a WWE Women's and Diva's Champion. She worked as an annoying heel with Michelle McCool and as a peppy babyface against The Bellas and Beth Phoenix.<br /><br />Things were starting to change when she retired in 2015, but, during her entire run, women's wrestling wasn't really a priority. Layla was able to have some competitive matches, especially during her last few years with WWE. She, Eve Torres, Beth Phoenix, Natalya, and Kaitlyn were given a decent amount of time every now and then, but this was all pre-women's revolution. It was before Charlotte, Becky, Sasha, and Bayley came up to the roster and put a focus on in-ring work. There was no women's Royal Rumble for Layla to compete in. There were no tag team titles for her to try to win.<br /><br />Unless she and Michelle McCool return for a short run, the tag titles are something Layla won't ever add to her resume, but competing in the Royal Rumble is something she could do. It's possible she ends up in the Hall of Fame when WWE starts inducting women from her era, so having a Royal Rumble appearance just adds a little bit more content for WWE to work with when they put together that video package. Michelle McCool competes in almost every women's Royal Rumble (and she will likely this year, too, since it's in Texas), so having a confrontation or reunion would tell a nice story.</div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #222222;"><b style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj22qfanfixWYxXh6dyaLMIucfR_IxMZy5iwwHI8-hTe-U5ERvP8ZgR_QiijC_0WTWu6iqlUMAc_1CBAtsIO1t9WPRj0RmB3gZS88dgKQUNaqvHZL97JODUfZ7Q6bZGtncYH5hkNQ5qxAdiI6TE4i7DltfiqUP4nq5BFID6vNfoYg534AS5svApPnHzw/s908/8w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Jacqueline.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj22qfanfixWYxXh6dyaLMIucfR_IxMZy5iwwHI8-hTe-U5ERvP8ZgR_QiijC_0WTWu6iqlUMAc_1CBAtsIO1t9WPRj0RmB3gZS88dgKQUNaqvHZL97JODUfZ7Q6bZGtncYH5hkNQ5qxAdiI6TE4i7DltfiqUP4nq5BFID6vNfoYg534AS5svApPnHzw/w181-h200/8w%20WWERoyalRumbleWishlist2023Jacqueline.png" width="181" /></a></div><br /></b></span><b>Jacqueline</b> - One final Hall of Famer and Texan should enter this match. Jacqueline was part of the first-ever women's Royal Rumble several years ago but hasn't made any kind of in-ring appearances since then. Jackie took down Kelly Kelly, Natalya, and attempted to beat up Nia Jax, but her time in that Royal Rumble was short-lived. <br /><br />I love Jackie, so she's always someone I'd like to see get more time in the ring. She's older, so she's not in the shape to do a full-time schedule, but she can more than handle a Rumble appearance. Jacqueline still keeps in good shape. It makes sense to have one more WWE appearance, especially since this Royal Rumble is in San Antonio.</div><div><div><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div><p><b>RELATED CONTENT:</b></p><ul><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2022/01/my-2022-royal-rumble-wishlist.html">My 2022 Royal Rumble Wish List</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-return-for-2021-mens-royal.html">Who should return for the 2021 men's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-win-2021-womens-royal-rumble.html">Who should win the 2021 women's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2020/01/wwe-hall-of-fame-suggestions-through.html">WWE Hall of Fame suggestions through 2031</a></li></ul><p></p><p><br /></p></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-19750769484801197002023-01-06T13:19:00.000-05:002023-01-06T13:19:14.173-05:00The Best Options to Replace Mandy Rose in Toxic Attraction<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MF0TlaREbhdSqiQLfO0_6fgtWZcH9hLTqNQhUtvkJHRxxztW4ARS6cvrYizASzcZntdUsGcr4ef7l1viuY5qowmzT-gGN-T2ALRbv3OTC9PGt84kOX9zou4dtVpv7QiLI8yuRQy9NwG9ODtTylPKjzbYshXLkMU8PTRE0WXP20jpinyLUQbX8fuksw/s1224/ToxicToxic.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9MF0TlaREbhdSqiQLfO0_6fgtWZcH9hLTqNQhUtvkJHRxxztW4ARS6cvrYizASzcZntdUsGcr4ef7l1viuY5qowmzT-gGN-T2ALRbv3OTC9PGt84kOX9zou4dtVpv7QiLI8yuRQy9NwG9ODtTylPKjzbYshXLkMU8PTRE0WXP20jpinyLUQbX8fuksw/w400-h296/ToxicToxic.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />There hasn't been a day that's gone by in the past couple of weeks that Mandy Rose hasn't made news on the pro wrestling news websites.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ever since she was released, apparently due to the explicit content on her FanTime page, people have been reacting, speculating, weighing in, and taking sides.</div><p>My thoughts on the matter: I liked Mandy. She was always OK, but was never involved in anything I was excited about. Her feud with Sonya was good, her relationship with Otis was fun, her alliance with Paige was a good way to debut, and the best part of her tag team with Dana Brooke was Asuka naming the duo her, "Sexy Muscle Friends."</p><p>I think her work with Toxic Attraction is a little overrated, but she did manage to reinvent herself and made names out of Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne along the way. While Mandy certainly improved in NXT, I wouldn't say she affects the women's division in NXT, or in WWE, in any significant way.</p><p>NXT has half a dozen (or more) women there who are more athletic than Mandy. WWE has women on the main roster who are just as beautiful as Mandy, too. The way I see it, there's no big loss in letting Mandy go or jumping ship to AEW. </p><p>Best of luck to Mandy with her future endeavors, or a possible WWE return down the road. I just don't have strong feelings about her release. It's an interesting situation, but I'm not emotionally invested in any of this.</p><p>I'd hate to see Jacy and Gigi suffer because of Mandy's release though. They're not the best workers in the world, but they have unique personalities, have the gimmick down already, and are a good tag team. Lord knows the WWE could use some credibility in their women's tag team division, no matter what brand we're talking about. The question is: what happens to Gigi and Jacy?</p><p>Now is the perfect time to call them up to the main roster. It doesn't have to be a big debut. I'd have them show up and watch a tag match. The next week do some guest commentary. After that, step in the ring for a tag match, and not against the champions right away! Build them up a little bit.</p><p>Maybe wait until sometime in January. I would probably call them up before the Royal Rumble though. They could be surprise entrants in the Rumble, but that could backfire on WWE. If that Toxic Attraction theme hits and there's no Mandy Rose, the crowd in San Antonio (likely to be filled with smart marks) could react negatively to Gigi and Jacy .</p><p>From there, give them a few wins on Smackdown or Raw going into Wrestlemania, and, if fans receive them well on the main roster, give them the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles at Wrestlemania. It's likely to be a 3 or 4 tag team match, so maybe don't give them the win at 'Mania. </p><p>Natalya or Sonya could lose in a match against Damage CTRL, Toxic Attraction, and another team like Raquel and Shotzi or Tegan Nox and Liv Morgan.</p><p>If Gigi and Jacy don't eat the loss at Wrestlemania, then they could have match for the titles at Wrestlemania Backlash and win them there. I know WWE doesn't like heel vs. heel feuds, but maybe the new regime under Triple H would be more receptive to it. This doesn't need to be a long feud. </p><p>Damage CTRL could still feud with another team of fan favorites at the same time. Maybe Raquel and Shotzi or Tegan and Liv or Asuka and Candice LeRae cost Damage CTRL the titles, resulting in Toxic Attraction securing the victory. </p><p>Regardless of how it all goes down, there's a lot that can be done with Toxic Attraction on the main roster. Mandy Rose's release is the perfect time to move them up because they really don't have anything else to prove in NXT.</p><p>If Toxic Attraction gets called up, how does their act change? Do they find a replacement for Mandy Rose? TNA faced a similar situation with The Beautiful People in 2009 after Angelina Love had some issues with her work visa. </p><p>Lacey Von Erich was brought in to join Madison Rayne and Velvet Sky as the third member of the group. Angelina eventually returned and feuded with the updated version of The Beautiful People. WWE could easily do something like that here, but who are the best candidates to replace Mandy Rose in Toxic Attraction?</p><p>Here are the options on my list:</p><p></p><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvzoIzQRVEG7cPDdctqniShxavt2_b_COsQ7oz0rXz4D3LiLxkalE6E2I_bKQQy8_I4UYWPSEpcG_Yy0MM7pYJX85M4NU4erntf3cQIItIRFBLKYC3jIIuixtuuV_yFItNvJEx8e9ENoy0o6U05fxt3W5cyUfnOhDOLLSJt8x61BKVtHQhdaSSAO4ZA/s1224/ToxicSonya.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXvzoIzQRVEG7cPDdctqniShxavt2_b_COsQ7oz0rXz4D3LiLxkalE6E2I_bKQQy8_I4UYWPSEpcG_Yy0MM7pYJX85M4NU4erntf3cQIItIRFBLKYC3jIIuixtuuV_yFItNvJEx8e9ENoy0o6U05fxt3W5cyUfnOhDOLLSJt8x61BKVtHQhdaSSAO4ZA/w320-h237/ToxicSonya.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Sonya Deville</b> - This alliance was already previewed in NXT several weeks ago. Sonya made a couple of guest appearances, noting that she and Mandy patched things up. Sonya would certainly bring a different dynamic to the group than Mandy does, but the more focused, business-minded Sonya could provide a nice evolution for Toxic Attraction.<div><br /></div><div>It would take some adjusting, but I think Gigi and Jacy could develop some chemistry with Sonya, too. I really didn't see much chemistry between Gigi, Jacy , and Mandy to begin with.</div><div><br /></div><div> They are just the mean girls of NXT. Sonya proved a few times now that she can pull off a mean girl character, too, even if it's not Regina George mean, but a Cruella Deville-style mean instead.</div><div><br /><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMl3l1sQ49EGKOhS3lvE4AEiKyUJ12HhnQZAngEYhMw6NWQxEWvz-7Ez1cmGHrc4uR3XruAFRliSaPIrpFbC_KluM9KNbWmRRGwRVwZXzqonLi_8cWfMkOCGAFmF-6jnxbSXigWp5gHBISkXK1b_7u4mPS6Us4ZSZrqJUnsP2iAVmQSBGrpo9VrrslGg/s1224/ToxicEva.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMl3l1sQ49EGKOhS3lvE4AEiKyUJ12HhnQZAngEYhMw6NWQxEWvz-7Ez1cmGHrc4uR3XruAFRliSaPIrpFbC_KluM9KNbWmRRGwRVwZXzqonLi_8cWfMkOCGAFmF-6jnxbSXigWp5gHBISkXK1b_7u4mPS6Us4ZSZrqJUnsP2iAVmQSBGrpo9VrrslGg/s320/ToxicEva.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Eva Marie</b> - This former Diva sparked some speculation recently as rumors ramped up that she could return. I honestly don't see a purpose in her returning but she's the most capable one of filling Mandy Rose's spot in the same gimmick. </div><div><br /></div><div>She'd be more of a manager than the wrestling centerpiece of the group, but maybe that's a good thing. I feel that Jacy and Gigi were often overshadowed by Mandy because all the focus was on Mandy as the NXT Women's Champion. </div><div><br /></div><div>Eva would certainly help get Gigi and Jacy heat if WWE wants a women's tag team that can get a reaction. As silly as it is, I have to talk about Eva's hair. She had red hair during her first stint, purple hair on Celebrity Big Brother, and pink hair during her second WWE run. </div><div><br /></div><div>If she were to return with Toxic Attraction, she's gotta' go black. It would bring a harder edge to the group. She could have plenty of hashtags to work with, too, since she's always focused on social media. #Blackout</div><div><br /><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGCw8O9LPrPo8Jg1GKFY_TxFMrNaNJdW23IY-MPOu0OZ3L0d4IcFjdpw5SRRUg_DSlCL76pLI0Pjhb7F23qDArXbpekRumT1ZC9cRYTSgvObP-LdsKf4z-uF434xw4v5LGXxtk0jx3__W_Wpm39D88sdCYPtMn6UPfNB1lUwRmXCmFQMQ7zWvsp76mg/s1224/ToxicCameron.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzGCw8O9LPrPo8Jg1GKFY_TxFMrNaNJdW23IY-MPOu0OZ3L0d4IcFjdpw5SRRUg_DSlCL76pLI0Pjhb7F23qDArXbpekRumT1ZC9cRYTSgvObP-LdsKf4z-uF434xw4v5LGXxtk0jx3__W_Wpm39D88sdCYPtMn6UPfNB1lUwRmXCmFQMQ7zWvsp76mg/s320/ToxicCameron.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Cameron</b> - I don't think WWE would be interested in this, but Cameron is another possibility. She's another one from the end of the Divas era who has the mean girl routine figured out. During her return to NXT a few years ago, her couple of appearances in AEW, and few moments in the Royal Rumble last year, Cameron showed she was more comfortable in the ring than before. </div><div><br /></div><div>She's also probably more athletic than a lot of us give her credit for. Rather than a Mandy Rose clone with different colored hair (see Eva Marie), Cameron offers some flavor and sass to the group. Even if she's not the 'leader,' she could be the mouthpiece that stirs the pot and gets the group in trouble with other teams on the roster.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-rfdlR8NRKoAsrTLqYROR07kw5vpXvF19NWIfCFZXf95nOygQ4zGI-ogVHkkjighuRnCIu-abhZXkCpkV9HeWj3oetrdC0zsTMN0AoGDdYBhicXufHQ9Rec2nx527T9PID2TsaG9FxRxFs9_zz5NedkZaeuHT0zDAQAV0G2vQ47Csa2ZeYLDAv9-nA/s1224/ToxicSummerRae.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-rfdlR8NRKoAsrTLqYROR07kw5vpXvF19NWIfCFZXf95nOygQ4zGI-ogVHkkjighuRnCIu-abhZXkCpkV9HeWj3oetrdC0zsTMN0AoGDdYBhicXufHQ9Rec2nx527T9PID2TsaG9FxRxFs9_zz5NedkZaeuHT0zDAQAV0G2vQ47Csa2ZeYLDAv9-nA/s320/ToxicSummerRae.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Summer Rae</b> - While Summer also returned at the 2022 Royal Rumble, and was backstage for Raw in Nashville this past week, I don't know that she'd fit in very well here. The pairing could work, but Summer isn't my first choice.</div><div><br /></div><div>She's more of a prissy heel who doesn't want to get her hands dirty. Toxic Attraction is all about bringing the fight, fighting dirty, and winning. I don't think Summer's character would be an immediate fit. They could certainly develop some chemistry along the way, but it would be almost a mismatch on paper.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpJ0atCN87KRvW_nUAvTF4rBjKyiYQ1FQiQuDfABYWQsz2OBVcnZ71wMHo3IBH1IaxD81RDC_5tjTb_TXZzz4MT7_zl33Ya2YetMuvsdSH49UFXK5BxcSc7KZ-swId5AnJO3HEwfYUxvq7crylVUoTFaZMWEcIT7L_Tpj2dGD3u4GOtY2h7DpG9-AJQ/s1224/ToxicBlair.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHpJ0atCN87KRvW_nUAvTF4rBjKyiYQ1FQiQuDfABYWQsz2OBVcnZ71wMHo3IBH1IaxD81RDC_5tjTb_TXZzz4MT7_zl33Ya2YetMuvsdSH49UFXK5BxcSc7KZ-swId5AnJO3HEwfYUxvq7crylVUoTFaZMWEcIT7L_Tpj2dGD3u4GOtY2h7DpG9-AJQ/s320/ToxicBlair.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Blair Davenport</b> - Even though Blair is currently out with an injury, joining Toxic Attraction when she returns could be a big benefit to her career. Blair, being the most experienced wrestler of the bunch, would be the in-ring leader, for sure.</div><div><br /></div><div>She'd actually be benefitting, too, though. Toxic Attraction made a name for themselves in NXT, and even though Blair has been successful in putting on good matches while in AEW and NXT UK, she hasn't formed a memorable character in WWE yet. She just moved over to NXT in 2022 and then got injured.</div><div><br /></div><div>Blair is a good talent. She can talk, she can wrestle, and she has a funky look that would pair well with Gigi and Jacy. This could be just the spot she needs to help not only Toxic Attraction, but herself as well.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFEKdHNYbDOuNeMtla8--YHDFyX4c1J2JnjJs-b-8v2EF4V07iFuYQujKi-4348XCxKqwG7-u8IjxqnXtmoC1p5u-CTHClHQoxg2CrswaP_mf7TVsA4UzBhI1hMLfDK8wtkXcr7MVhNmQlyCc0F37WYMD-gbMK63ks7evJ6woOb03HZ3HIlCJqyqwJeQ/s1224/ToxicAliciaFox.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFEKdHNYbDOuNeMtla8--YHDFyX4c1J2JnjJs-b-8v2EF4V07iFuYQujKi-4348XCxKqwG7-u8IjxqnXtmoC1p5u-CTHClHQoxg2CrswaP_mf7TVsA4UzBhI1hMLfDK8wtkXcr7MVhNmQlyCc0F37WYMD-gbMK63ks7evJ6woOb03HZ3HIlCJqyqwJeQ/s320/ToxicAliciaFox.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Alicia Fox</b> - Speaking of funky, Alicia Fox has a lot of that. She's almost a bit too crazy to join Toxic Attraction, but she'd certainly add some character to the group!</div><div><br /></div><div>Alicia is an underrated wrestler, she's good on the mic, and she has the longevity in her career to lead a team like Toxic Attraction. She can definitely help Gigi and Jacy navigate main roster life.</div><div><br /></div><div>Of course, this all depends on Alicia Fox even wanting to return to WWE. I have no idea if Vince McMahon or Triple H (whoever ends up being in charge in Stamford) are fans of Alicia, but she's made appearances since her departure from the full-time roster, so there must be someone backstage who is pulling for her.</div><div><br /><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2Mz5hV2oKWuIh49XsqHM3RNEWV_vSiBgAcrpp-5BBWRmXSoVB0uEJW-hk0dbtfZqBgcSPoDIbGsQaIS0DOcRSuyyF1Db5cdUdXwdW9MGoBZhYikE3n62ROTEc-EAIy5-PuYtb8Xmvo2jARW0ytycqHZHGI-vT4TDBwnlqjV9xcUYGQkEsF3tK4dPaQ/s1224/ToxicChelsea.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo2Mz5hV2oKWuIh49XsqHM3RNEWV_vSiBgAcrpp-5BBWRmXSoVB0uEJW-hk0dbtfZqBgcSPoDIbGsQaIS0DOcRSuyyF1Db5cdUdXwdW9MGoBZhYikE3n62ROTEc-EAIy5-PuYtb8Xmvo2jARW0ytycqHZHGI-vT4TDBwnlqjV9xcUYGQkEsF3tK4dPaQ/s320/ToxicChelsea.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Chelsea Green</b> - Rumors have been floating around for about a month that WWE is bringing Chelsea Green back, that WWE is bringing her husband, Zack Ryder, back too, and that WWE is going to debut a new reality series about the couples of WWE.</div><div><br /></div><div>Chelsea can work, so she gets an immediate point in that area. She also has an attitude to her that could match very well with Gigi and Jacy.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's a bit of funk, a bit of edge, and a bit of sexy. She's got enough ring experience that she could fully lead the group, not just on the mic. I think Chelsea could be put in a lot of other storylines on her own, so working with Toxic Attraction isn't necessarily the only option for her, but it would help the group if she showed up and lead the way for them in 2023.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_UUBsXJnyLaH4tAfK1MBwGgPKVlgnoJlEn75UhvdLgLOyIJdww3x3RpeeOS0opBvta8NrI9qB-_OCcdwOzjC4q1eBYdJpJFS8IBVx5DNi7ojQx5Wg27ova6xCqHH4hwP3FfnNbfaNxL0XGlMjQ861tc8MOuqe2EYDNIfAEConzZV5omkzWhNw_fodA/s1224/ToxicEmma.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje_UUBsXJnyLaH4tAfK1MBwGgPKVlgnoJlEn75UhvdLgLOyIJdww3x3RpeeOS0opBvta8NrI9qB-_OCcdwOzjC4q1eBYdJpJFS8IBVx5DNi7ojQx5Wg27ova6xCqHH4hwP3FfnNbfaNxL0XGlMjQ861tc8MOuqe2EYDNIfAEConzZV5omkzWhNw_fodA/s320/ToxicEmma.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Emma</b> - Another woman who can get the job done in the ring is Emma. She's the best wrestler on this list, honestly. Emma is a face right now, but she's kind of in limbo on Smackdown as it is.</div><div><br /></div><div>Emma, like Chelsea, brings a different kind of appeal than someone like Mandy Rose or Eva Marie. She's got looks, but she's also got in-ring skills and mic skills.</div><div><br /></div><div>Plus, based on her previous work in WWE, ROH, and Impact, she brings a fun and unique heel persona that could play off of Gigi and Jacy very well if given the chance.</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't see a big push coming for Emma until after Wrestlemania. Using the Royal Rumble to set up Wrestlemania is the priority right now, and Emma doesn't fit into those plans. She could easily be a Wrestlemania-worthy competitor, but not right now when Becky, Charlotte, Ronda, Bianca, Rhea, Alexa, and Asuka are all around.</div><div><br /></div><div>Emma needs to find her groove in this new women's division she's in. Working with Toxic Attraction could be exactly what she, Jacy, and Gigi all need to make an impact.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gh0jwr-tNUQKj5Pm07736j8QJ3-WwAy118wu46fwZQCfNB6twuhsYacj5rvnLbNhORDDdyjYExBrbwHS-qvuuaNVgVUPWmkHl7DaVOVuZGIMNlbN6oPliIBEeRqoxEBXeVaXAaEjW3HBaRnFdcLtvIVZ-nOGvBLv0uBaa8e4jzcu6itYN6bkVyDa1g/s1224/ToxicCarmella.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6gh0jwr-tNUQKj5Pm07736j8QJ3-WwAy118wu46fwZQCfNB6twuhsYacj5rvnLbNhORDDdyjYExBrbwHS-qvuuaNVgVUPWmkHl7DaVOVuZGIMNlbN6oPliIBEeRqoxEBXeVaXAaEjW3HBaRnFdcLtvIVZ-nOGvBLv0uBaa8e4jzcu6itYN6bkVyDa1g/s320/ToxicCarmella.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Carmella</b> - This is probably the best fit of the bunch. Carmella, sadly, shared news about losing her child in an ectopic pregnancy. The miscarriage happened in early September, so that's why she's been off TV for a while.</div><div><br /></div><div>If she's ready to return, Carmella could easily step into the spot as the third member (and leader) of Toxic Attraction. She's got the charisma, the on-screen character, and the main roster experience to lead Jacy and Gigi to success on Raw or Smackdown.</div><div><br /></div><div>It could be a nice evolution for Carmella, too. She already won the Smackdown Women's Title (after being the first Ms. Money in the Bank), she won the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles, and she's feuded with all the major players who are currently in the division outside of Ronda or the up-and-comers like Raquel, Aliyah, Xia Li, and Candice LeRae.</div><div><br /></div><div>Working in a faction while still maintaining her status as a singles competitor would be very beneficial to Carmella. Like a few others on this list, Carmella could also help Jacy and Gigi in terms of mic skills, the politics that comes with being on the main roster, and solidifying their characters in front of larger audiences.</div><div><br /><br /><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_crJYS9pZpiqqUV_DqrYzpwMikpjDRTxOLS8AUcbARz1f6oe5tbARt6kogqV_btUXfD2Lp-NW3WCl1xPXbt91t21woztu4IlaaShdfP44U5nTyWaDIDkaIzBsLCmxr6F_LakA1dbvQnIrb3pTJJAGAZvPtoSu3EHAG5bXP4F7mjExUaBQJ0ayVQHWBA/s1224/ToxicJacGig.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="1224" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_crJYS9pZpiqqUV_DqrYzpwMikpjDRTxOLS8AUcbARz1f6oe5tbARt6kogqV_btUXfD2Lp-NW3WCl1xPXbt91t21woztu4IlaaShdfP44U5nTyWaDIDkaIzBsLCmxr6F_LakA1dbvQnIrb3pTJJAGAZvPtoSu3EHAG5bXP4F7mjExUaBQJ0ayVQHWBA/s320/ToxicJacGig.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Nobody</b> - Jacy and Gigi aren't at Becky Lynch's level on the mic, but they're actually quite capable on their own.</div><div><br /></div><div>They have shown glimpses of that during the promos for their two main roster tryout matches on Smackdown this fall. They've shown that during the little bit of mic time they've been given during Toxic Attraction promos on NXT, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think a third member would certainly add more excitement to their group, but going into the main roster tag division as just the two of them isn't out of the question. Considering these are two women I thought may struggle to find their place in NXT, they formed an alliance with Mandy and never looked back.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a feeling they'd get over just fine without a third member of the group. It may be a slower process, but it'll happen.<br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><b><i>RELATED CONTENT:</i></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2022/01/my-2022-royal-rumble-wishlist.html">My 2022 Royal Rumble Wishlist</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-return-for-2021-mens-royal.html">Who should return for the 2021 men's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-win-2021-womens-royal-rumble.html">Who should win the 2021 women's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2020/01/wwe-hall-of-fame-suggestions-through.html">WWE Hall of Fame suggestions through 2031</a></li></ul><p></p><div><br /></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-76306682179644912632022-01-22T13:40:00.017-05:002023-01-05T10:28:07.700-05:00My 2022 Royal Rumble Wish List<p>It's that time of year again. Yes, it's almost time to point at the Wrestlemania sign ad nauseam. Unfortunately that is actually a fact, but what I'm looking forward to is the usually exciting, sometimes career-making Royal Rumble match ... hopefully with some jaw-dropping surprises.</p><p>It's those surprises that I really look forward to. After two decades of booking the Rumble, WWE producers and matchmakers now realize the importance of surprise returns and Easter eggs sprinkled throughout the match. However, they don't always live up to my expectations.</p><p>Granted, my expectations can sometimes be too high, but usually WWE just falls short on things that they should've and could've booked. Maybe I'm a glutton for punishment, but I have a full list of expectations this year.</p><p>I, like some of the Internet Wrestling Community, am a little upset that WWE ruined some of the surprise entrants in the women's rumble this year. Summer Rae isn't someone I was anxious to see, but she's not someone I would've expected to get a spot. It's that surprise, good or bad, that makes the Rumble fun. Apparently WWE still has some good surprises planned. Let's hope so.</p><p>In case they need some ideas, here's my wish list for both the men and women's Royal Rumble matches:</p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWi01-XxtQY2P_5PmwKmNXOZlpZ6--Om4U6C2WU4_Wwu8K0jipEJCyOqEglWP5F5ITsVe_v2Qc6tFIPRWP_c0uVCLuI52kfNrMT1_v_D9Ip-ZH7RFkW2f9wNtomjFBaWwwMh63jQXsiqCAFKE5P9XodNiveU1oPz10q7PawtD1m9dZaZWaN_I27jSfQQ=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWi01-XxtQY2P_5PmwKmNXOZlpZ6--Om4U6C2WU4_Wwu8K0jipEJCyOqEglWP5F5ITsVe_v2Qc6tFIPRWP_c0uVCLuI52kfNrMT1_v_D9Ip-ZH7RFkW2f9wNtomjFBaWwwMh63jQXsiqCAFKE5P9XodNiveU1oPz10q7PawtD1m9dZaZWaN_I27jSfQQ=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Alexa Bliss:</b> obviously Alexa is already part of the Raw roster, but I have <i><u>loathed</u></i> this ridiculous, cartoonish copy of The Fiend (which is a stupid gimmick by itself). Then they added Lily to the mess. So freaking stupid. If you want to appeal to kids, sure, but it's hard to stomach as an adult. Anyway, I want Alexa's old music to hit and to see the original Alexa strut down the ramp. It'd get a huge pop. While I have no interest in seeing Alexa in any top feud in the women's division, her old character was at least entertaining, so I'd welcome any way to bring that character back to the division.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjla9bmD74_UqpSkCgjaPupNgpz0V-yyJL0AnatVOZgAhB9WFJpwSIF4yGARPb4Gn0kyWZR7h6l94QMSkuTg6jkXK863RSyjjCeRePK_hpYJnv2zqoWFBZLtcIDPCHAHKP8J-O691TNcBsyDlLvJwxBZBZvMjob_WxyxjLECiUjYOH__32MdReq0DeziA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjla9bmD74_UqpSkCgjaPupNgpz0V-yyJL0AnatVOZgAhB9WFJpwSIF4yGARPb4Gn0kyWZR7h6l94QMSkuTg6jkXK863RSyjjCeRePK_hpYJnv2zqoWFBZLtcIDPCHAHKP8J-O691TNcBsyDlLvJwxBZBZvMjob_WxyxjLECiUjYOH__32MdReq0DeziA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Melina:</b> another woman whose music always gets a pop is Melina. She signed with NWA and appeared with Impact as recently as 2021, but her WWE chapter always felt unfinished. She was released unexpectedly in August of 2011. Like others on this list, she didn't get a retirement match, a send off, or much recognition for her contributions to the industry. Let's face it: she deserves some love. Without her, there'd be no Sasha Banks. Half of Sasha's move set comes from Melina. That's not a dig, by the way. That just highlights how influential Melina was. Coming off of a few big matches last year, the Royal Rumble would be a nice way to cap off her in-ring WWE career.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5tc5Wz31kQsClfyYAH8Kt6tSMHsQchWFZTqN4s1mHsiGQ2LDUhepP56LvMPVBSnGy-linDtVOCYp2ZMVhVXMLk2T5rpHxZLlSWiKDB8PUHAw0WkAETibVE0r2ebmeYVx46hsVmSD80jX66f4qb2f5DhQeUeTSGpEOgGjk55jvkLZvIyg9TMznWTZGOA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh5tc5Wz31kQsClfyYAH8Kt6tSMHsQchWFZTqN4s1mHsiGQ2LDUhepP56LvMPVBSnGy-linDtVOCYp2ZMVhVXMLk2T5rpHxZLlSWiKDB8PUHAw0WkAETibVE0r2ebmeYVx46hsVmSD80jX66f4qb2f5DhQeUeTSGpEOgGjk55jvkLZvIyg9TMznWTZGOA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />X- Pac:</b> I believe X-Pac has had some injuries the past few years, so he hasn't been medically cleared to return and get physical. As one of the innovators of fast-paced, high-flying, martial arts action, I'd like to see X-Pac get another moment to really shine inside a WWE ring. He's already in the Hall of Fame as a member of DeGeneration X and he's made frequent appearances on reunion shows, but he never had a retirement match or even a real good send off. Getting the chance to work with guys like A.J. Styles, Ricochet, and others who he likely influenced is the high note he needs before hanging it up for good.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhubmEEJtA140lMQpDlVR9ihcTWNzF3efndI-3g8o3m0OUa10GsSzoRD2rsZzDrY-yrEbwgDovSmvmean3dhgrWHgLNyH5yba0JPToRNDXjTNnIz883ziv8uJFoWtNXXstZlQEswT29CwXg6JYLmzRPSgxf6lApzthDDzJOWJ98c65Y_Sikv6IN1sRGHA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhubmEEJtA140lMQpDlVR9ihcTWNzF3efndI-3g8o3m0OUa10GsSzoRD2rsZzDrY-yrEbwgDovSmvmean3dhgrWHgLNyH5yba0JPToRNDXjTNnIz883ziv8uJFoWtNXXstZlQEswT29CwXg6JYLmzRPSgxf6lApzthDDzJOWJ98c65Y_Sikv6IN1sRGHA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Gangrel:</b> funnily enough, Gangrel has a little bit of Royal Rumble history with X-Pac. He lost to X-Pac in a European Title Match back in 1999. Gangrel isn't someone who would typically be on my list, but WWE needs to strike while the iron is hot. With Edge using some of the Brood gimmick over the past year, having Gangrel show up, seemingly align with Edge, and then turn on Edge would be a neat nostalgic moment.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicBZ7_1RS4V_KMeTNReNtg7sNj4qQ7VfXvSF4rdZ4-F7pHpFzg6MlZdFSG-a82phCEiNzvRvWn3bZMwJnerh0bwwIDS0Q9bl9KK1TOeIKYY4bgeX-D-ReiBmYBa9Khh7zT_2yBcIHcjB5FU-sZsdfm8c5coIZaQK3FIMPBbmPMrFkn-l6HWtFAq5Bgyw=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEicBZ7_1RS4V_KMeTNReNtg7sNj4qQ7VfXvSF4rdZ4-F7pHpFzg6MlZdFSG-a82phCEiNzvRvWn3bZMwJnerh0bwwIDS0Q9bl9KK1TOeIKYY4bgeX-D-ReiBmYBa9Khh7zT_2yBcIHcjB5FU-sZsdfm8c5coIZaQK3FIMPBbmPMrFkn-l6HWtFAq5Bgyw=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Bayley:</b> after an injury sidelined Bayley last year and left her feud with Bianca Belair on hold, she's been understandably absent from WWE programming. There's been no guest commentary position or podcast appearances. Bayley has been tweeting, of course, but there haven't been any status updates on her recovery. I've got to think that's leading to a Royal Rumble spot. In a way, it'd be more surprising if she showed up on Raw or Smackdown after the Rumble since everyone kind of assumes she'll be in the Royal Rumble itself. Still, I'll settle for a surprise entrant that everyone is expecting.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4nRijl9rxJL33NH3pVGpd8Iv9UvMjcVa9XC6PbR9cHxCia-vPe2SBhdNuJGIrrWK9aOfIOfB0U0OAbcgi200QoQC_o4ykG5hveeSKjGoh7IaA_PDAn_dhvwBoXYDd5WK3vN_Q7dwuICIE1XbmjqPJJKBaaDKNJoVxTdRaPjS0s5NFR3-BkfaqMDJ2LA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4nRijl9rxJL33NH3pVGpd8Iv9UvMjcVa9XC6PbR9cHxCia-vPe2SBhdNuJGIrrWK9aOfIOfB0U0OAbcgi200QoQC_o4ykG5hveeSKjGoh7IaA_PDAn_dhvwBoXYDd5WK3vN_Q7dwuICIE1XbmjqPJJKBaaDKNJoVxTdRaPjS0s5NFR3-BkfaqMDJ2LA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Paige:</b> another woman who has been out with an injury is Paige. Although, in this case, she's been on the inactive list for years now. Despite that, she's been working on a return for years. It's just a matter of whether or not she can get to the point that she can get medically cleared. It happened with Daniel Bryan and Edge, so maybe it'll happen with Paige too. If she did return, I'd be a little concerned about whether Paige could hang with an evolved women's division, but even a small run with minimal matches could be very cool. Maybe even a tag team title run. Even if it's just a one-time Royal Rumble appearance, at least she could chuck that off her list.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjywxZ6eaBnduaVenWu4xnEpUKbaxkV2Zuzn-PmZEDGqKIx2e5XgZxMrJfKzKHcJl33a3BMwChC0n7AX8RDmyvciRgRAezIWP6EFrv0LGKOv3Jj3ZcxXQUipb_7sE3zZ47VH34uDOuXCJvBnCvai0kLj3YRDJGgAG4Hs127xBGFG2aXKN8yeXFWgmmUJA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjywxZ6eaBnduaVenWu4xnEpUKbaxkV2Zuzn-PmZEDGqKIx2e5XgZxMrJfKzKHcJl33a3BMwChC0n7AX8RDmyvciRgRAezIWP6EFrv0LGKOv3Jj3ZcxXQUipb_7sE3zZ47VH34uDOuXCJvBnCvai0kLj3YRDJGgAG4Hs127xBGFG2aXKN8yeXFWgmmUJA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Tyson Kidd:</b> here's another competitor who was forced to retire from in-ring competition due to an injury. Tyson isn't the most charismatic wrestler WWE ever signed, but he was an exceptional worker. His in-ring skills were the perfect combination of high-flying and technical. There weren't any flippy flippy spots just for the sake of it. Everything he did made sense. He's still in great shape, based on Natalya's tweets. If he ever does get cleared, I hope WWE does surprise us. A Royal Rumble is the perfect way to return. In the current WWE, he'd easily be Intercontinental or U.S. Title material. A solid run with one of those mid-card, workhorse titles is definitely deserved! Hopefully it'll happen at some point.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNvemJBI4DKDIB950lxUzyxH_WOwzHvbaOx6jesHRRqTfs7ssyReZg5d79CL2RQA6Lgk223UpD_BNE4f7bvKM-uEAMenWlrBVVlShzp2Dny2A5p1fMmRPLyirkXYk2FIXyRBnIgdxgScmlJysyMVauS9XzLc3soq3qdz1wWhqGifBSsuAeEAGL-Ebcqg=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNvemJBI4DKDIB950lxUzyxH_WOwzHvbaOx6jesHRRqTfs7ssyReZg5d79CL2RQA6Lgk223UpD_BNE4f7bvKM-uEAMenWlrBVVlShzp2Dny2A5p1fMmRPLyirkXYk2FIXyRBnIgdxgScmlJysyMVauS9XzLc3soq3qdz1wWhqGifBSsuAeEAGL-Ebcqg=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Santino Marella:</b> after his sister, Santina, entered the women's Royal Rumble in 2020, it's time that Santino has a chance at going to Wrestlemania. He's a fun character who always generates a reaction, but, unlike some of the other WWE alumni, Santino hasn't been overexposed. He's not at every Raw Reunion. He hasn't had multiple Royal Rumble appearances since retiring. Hornswoggle, the Boogeyman, and others have shown up so many times that I just don't even care when they do. That isn't the case with Santino. He's mostly a comedic wrestler, but Santino does have some impressive in-ring abilities. I'd love to see him get a couple of eliminations if there is a Rumble appearance. Comedy is the easy route with Santino. Why not throw everyone a little off and give him a chance to eliminate Randy Orton or a bigger nam? I was just watching the 2002 Royal Rumble the other day and Maven eliminating the Undertaker got a huge pop! Nobody looked weak, Maven got over, and it was memorable. WWE doesn't take risks like that anymore, but they should.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggqFCIKJ2Wu-js96PDRck4CZ1cNldrI5TSb0FE1okaX3NfPyaP42bqPcW2zRbFtWRGOmvg4efIKHbH-BkI4NyT3dmhjGFpy06gYXOu3oeVwOigurpCcHSCLBiNdCeKmX1nrNwZfq13j0O7C3lZxqVb6XTyfWAKPFbN_fRzpbkDMT_LE_chCaWqfoOSog=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEggqFCIKJ2Wu-js96PDRck4CZ1cNldrI5TSb0FE1okaX3NfPyaP42bqPcW2zRbFtWRGOmvg4efIKHbH-BkI4NyT3dmhjGFpy06gYXOu3oeVwOigurpCcHSCLBiNdCeKmX1nrNwZfq13j0O7C3lZxqVb6XTyfWAKPFbN_fRzpbkDMT_LE_chCaWqfoOSog=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Victoria:</b> like Molly, Victoria has already appeared in the Royal Rumble. In fact, it was just 12 months ago that Victoria showed up. It was a special moment because she's been overlooked for the past five years or so. Nobody really knows why. Was someone upset that she went to TNA after quitting the WWE? I'm not sure, but there's some heat with someone because they even quit inviting her to the Hall of Fame ceremony. She finally got a chance to return in 2021, but it was during COVID so there were no fans to give her the pop she deserves. It was still a great Rumble surprise entrant, but I'm going to be a needy fan and request a little more. A return in front of a live crowd, please! Unfortunately, I don't see it happening.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_-MU8boeTWR8vflJQmqWxgHM8X4sI-ehhrsu43n-ouUFO4E24a8rMOR1hbOQZUi-Nx6F2pdVeldT2s0cc3lGRfgXvQQWtx_LHLIpT3WaPcUVOVWjvm6yWZYSngVl_-MMX7Hyaji-6IvdHtPyoYKFCDvmHl6s4ylPqXCBIomALFizRHblzZ8kSl5xAgQ=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi_-MU8boeTWR8vflJQmqWxgHM8X4sI-ehhrsu43n-ouUFO4E24a8rMOR1hbOQZUi-Nx6F2pdVeldT2s0cc3lGRfgXvQQWtx_LHLIpT3WaPcUVOVWjvm6yWZYSngVl_-MMX7Hyaji-6IvdHtPyoYKFCDvmHl6s4ylPqXCBIomALFizRHblzZ8kSl5xAgQ=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Mighty Molly:</b> If WWE doesn't capitalize on this moment, I'll be very disappointed. Molly Holly was in the first women's Royal Rumble a few years ago. Then, she showed up again as Mighty Molly. Normally, I wouldn't be requesting another appearance so soon, but there's one reason I am: Nikki A.S.H. Now that Nikki turned heel, this is a perfect moment for Mighty Molly to come out and have a fun superhero moment. Nikki can get the rub by eliminating Molly, but I want a showdown. Molly can attempt the chokeslam, like The Hurricane used to. Molly is currently a backstage agent for WWE, so there's no excuse for it not happening other than WWE officials not being smart enough to make it happen.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1ksxw_mtSeMfu6j17Kp4TVOF-SrKnvBHPI_YK1LzGfzEd_64JB9kS_wqWT7xVcZHPoQYxeftIH_9KXGZyZ4Bi-4yMC15Uj7PpDWXoEj8bV_s0TMQLsyFQ4PEi-zHrYe_-pf97p2Ofuj1vKxtT3CK2yz7YWKIwLhq4jO1pu8k3Ue7-v1y0-gI4gnHA4A=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj1ksxw_mtSeMfu6j17Kp4TVOF-SrKnvBHPI_YK1LzGfzEd_64JB9kS_wqWT7xVcZHPoQYxeftIH_9KXGZyZ4Bi-4yMC15Uj7PpDWXoEj8bV_s0TMQLsyFQ4PEi-zHrYe_-pf97p2Ofuj1vKxtT3CK2yz7YWKIwLhq4jO1pu8k3Ue7-v1y0-gI4gnHA4A=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Bubba Ray </b><b>(or Spike) </b><b>Dudley:</b> if this doesn't happen, no big deal. Bubba had his 2015 surprise appearance (and subsequent return run). If that's all he gets, then at least we had that. However, I'd like to hear that music one more time and see him show up again. I'd add D-Von to the list, but I don't think he has any interest in returning to in-ring action. Heck, it doesn't even have to be Bubba in the Rumble. It'd be kind of a swerve to hear the music hit and then have Spike show up instead of Bubba or D-Von. I'd enjoy him getting another chance to step into a WWE ring and get a few moves in. Sure, he'd get eliminated rather quickly, but a few moments is all he needs.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4iAUXcyGpxSx18pfI1GfzT6ZAIew_1iWZWCDLp8gK86YAD0QPbn3nX0qjRZq19_legc3t68SfhyU6IVnN42P7wqdXCXTim8iDjKxVZ-YIEZyqnmdNXeWeYylaJU3DFCpzuvCYuWnNAtHmJqA2ol5XoXGpmBFcFvQTJFO1RZtAfOqJUAY_Q0-f-jlnmA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4iAUXcyGpxSx18pfI1GfzT6ZAIew_1iWZWCDLp8gK86YAD0QPbn3nX0qjRZq19_legc3t68SfhyU6IVnN42P7wqdXCXTim8iDjKxVZ-YIEZyqnmdNXeWeYylaJU3DFCpzuvCYuWnNAtHmJqA2ol5XoXGpmBFcFvQTJFO1RZtAfOqJUAY_Q0-f-jlnmA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />The Blue Meanie:</b> if we're talking about ECW wrestlers, then Blue Meanie may be my number one ask. I always appreciated the athleticism of the Blue Meanie. His b.W.o. gimmick was great, his moonsault was good, his interactions with Goldust were interesting, and the way he handled the JBL situation after One Night Stand was highly commendable. He'll never be a Hall of Fame inductee, but there's no reason he can't get some love through a Royal Rumble appearance. I think he'd get a decent pop since the Rumble usually has some avid, long-time fans in the arena.<div><br /><p><b><br /></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9v6zD2xu-LNlzDRlinsg-3tJNyDoArKkdVFPnV2084sn0GicSc2D4DTX6JKkrHTXR3q_ovZBjrI674xa3duyWgbxxMZEs2ZdmZ1PnxxZhn0k0O-9ykWMDacneqgRd3AKeCCsySaOU5EVYBZkip1neZMWhsb04QTdM6D-UMLn-PPdatTV3Mu_ijBlyqg=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi9v6zD2xu-LNlzDRlinsg-3tJNyDoArKkdVFPnV2084sn0GicSc2D4DTX6JKkrHTXR3q_ovZBjrI674xa3duyWgbxxMZEs2ZdmZ1PnxxZhn0k0O-9ykWMDacneqgRd3AKeCCsySaOU5EVYBZkip1neZMWhsb04QTdM6D-UMLn-PPdatTV3Mu_ijBlyqg=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Jamie Noble:</b> another guy who was a fun character to watch was the redneck Jamie Noble. I had already tuned out of WWE programming by the time he and Joey Mercury were the new stooges for the McMahons, so I can't really comment on how that version of Jamie Noble worked out. It's been close to two decades since the redneck Noble was seen on WWE programming. That's the Noble I want for a Royal Rumble appearance. That's the one that would be a fun throwback. If I'm not mistaken, Jamie is still employed by WWE as an agent, so maybe there's a chance. It's been long enough since he was on WWE TV that an appearance would be welcomed.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N6R9ieSD5VBb_37ydKlw4Z6lXymZuWmVsmZny9surXt6NQWQTU8g8IgC1pxwUW7eP30ErR9jIj4IM4TkkodhBjC8u_4scJ5AYuyH3grcT2h4jGvMguwpyAq05Im0mpWJS7BTZz7CHZsDBWEAlMgqBfFQRHVbxQ-hWQq2dyXwszK18b2P76Vtm_ye0w=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-N6R9ieSD5VBb_37ydKlw4Z6lXymZuWmVsmZny9surXt6NQWQTU8g8IgC1pxwUW7eP30ErR9jIj4IM4TkkodhBjC8u_4scJ5AYuyH3grcT2h4jGvMguwpyAq05Im0mpWJS7BTZz7CHZsDBWEAlMgqBfFQRHVbxQ-hWQq2dyXwszK18b2P76Vtm_ye0w=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Ivory (preferably the RTC version):</b> even though Ivory was in the women's battle royal at WWE Evolution a few years ago, she hasn't appeared in a Royal Rumble. As one of the best characters of the Attitude Era and a inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame, Ivory doesn't need a Royal Rumble appearance to enhance her resume. It would be nice to see her show up and get that pop though. Or, in her case, if the RTC music hits, it'll be boos. Ivory never had a full retirement match and, while the appearance in the women's battle royal at Evolution was nice, a Royal Rumble appearance could help make an even better ending for her WWE career. I'm sure she has the energy to get through a few minutes in the Rumble. Ivory never runs low on energy.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnYfD5Zk6cpHw6R5GoMBDYD6EP-_tfHUvKckTzTUiDNURz0yEXR4EkVe4UR25y41-tPj-UqO8Aw70j8asoZqadlfupWvDA3Jgrab_oJGe2dqqCUNHl8AcBsc3AQVdrvHXpU0PN1XkC2e5Wx5u1BgxP7iaq7g8i_3f4zzfrBbJ4luGsnMZ52sxhqGgFdg=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgnYfD5Zk6cpHw6R5GoMBDYD6EP-_tfHUvKckTzTUiDNURz0yEXR4EkVe4UR25y41-tPj-UqO8Aw70j8asoZqadlfupWvDA3Jgrab_oJGe2dqqCUNHl8AcBsc3AQVdrvHXpU0PN1XkC2e5Wx5u1BgxP7iaq7g8i_3f4zzfrBbJ4luGsnMZ52sxhqGgFdg=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Madusa / Alundra Blayze:</b> another woman who last showed up in the women's battle royal at Evolution, Madusa was recovering from a knee injury, so she wasn't able to really work much in that match. A couple of years after that surgery, I'm hoping she's in better shape than before. It'd be fun for Madusa to interact with Beth Phoenix, Charlotte Flair, Natalya, and Mickie James. I know she'd like to have some showdowns with them and the Rumble is the perfect format for that to happen. Then again, with Beth being involved in a mixed-tag match this year, maybe the 2023 Rumble is the best time for Madusa to show up.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgw3LugJESXIBRhKNnmUuBKkspZkNFYshkSP0r9uGNOpJTSXKZ0EkHSu2KnsVBYhS1mQOp-C80tfXlS8dPZrAFl0PtshzYWHOWQPVMKy1hYzVtKO0DCcY4XM4TqziUxPU7i95XpEzExi41AD6n9YYqVzMtSEtdbuywu61KPhc9bgNSxVTeEUd6hJQ__PA=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgw3LugJESXIBRhKNnmUuBKkspZkNFYshkSP0r9uGNOpJTSXKZ0EkHSu2KnsVBYhS1mQOp-C80tfXlS8dPZrAFl0PtshzYWHOWQPVMKy1hYzVtKO0DCcY4XM4TqziUxPU7i95XpEzExi41AD6n9YYqVzMtSEtdbuywu61KPhc9bgNSxVTeEUd6hJQ__PA=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Layla:</b> it seems that Layla quit WWE and never looked back. She's not one who is active on social media or wrestling for other companies. She's made a few appearances at conventions, but that's it. I don't know if she's even in ring ready shape, but since we know Michelle McCool and The Bella Twins are going to be in the 2022 women's Royal Rumble, why not throw a little LayCool into the mix as well? We'll never get full-on matches with this generation of women. Maybe that's for the best anyway. The ring work has evolved into something more demanding than when the Divas were three-minute filler matches. That's why the Royal Rumble would be a great time to bring Layla back for another small, fun moment to cap off her career.<p></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrcpEaIOb9sM1Kvx9X3tsQAym4RV_gphqKS6Pt0wmpVTLx41dKcP4X2eTF-xxn7njUxmD7oGj0sBaPJ_XeHfb_Ihg6FNQJdzudDeUxcRzhwVigLLUOE2UfsUDJ1UX4Bb5Wd3BoQcJtvAXvX5X8Q5l9qH7k0NOTRkN1J22wj1GfkbhOzX0vUhPzwswe7g=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrcpEaIOb9sM1Kvx9X3tsQAym4RV_gphqKS6Pt0wmpVTLx41dKcP4X2eTF-xxn7njUxmD7oGj0sBaPJ_XeHfb_Ihg6FNQJdzudDeUxcRzhwVigLLUOE2UfsUDJ1UX4Bb5Wd3BoQcJtvAXvX5X8Q5l9qH7k0NOTRkN1J22wj1GfkbhOzX0vUhPzwswe7g=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Corey Graves:</b> I have honestly never seen Corey wrestle. I've only known him as a commentator. He's actually one of the best heel commentators in years. Very few people can replace Bobby Heenan or Jesse Ventura or late 90s Jerry Lawler, but JBL and Corey Graves come close. I'm a huge fan of his commentary. That being said, I don't have a desire to see him compete. Apparently he wants to and is now medically cleared to return, but is he even in ring shape? He isn't fat, but he's not toned from what I've seen. I don't think he's a Wrestlemania headliner. I don't even know that a feud with Corey would be mid-card level. Perhaps he could get involved in a storyline that involves Carmella, kind of like Maryse gets involved in angles with The Miz. If he appears, though, then good for him.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBZ6w7T9JAtNHV-WPNIsDBYH_io2j9HYKUkyJuHE4chDq00Tna3LyCEMbo7Fc9bg0uB58OIXVXzid0V9LqL1JRXjZikh3PYle1G2dmG7NyKLZFiCZl9-43aeh4DauG1ce7z2t8bf3C73qF1IWVu_Gf1Mg18NANISUHK669UUqAWweyMNc7hx5jFZ4hEQ=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgBZ6w7T9JAtNHV-WPNIsDBYH_io2j9HYKUkyJuHE4chDq00Tna3LyCEMbo7Fc9bg0uB58OIXVXzid0V9LqL1JRXjZikh3PYle1G2dmG7NyKLZFiCZl9-43aeh4DauG1ce7z2t8bf3C73qF1IWVu_Gf1Mg18NANISUHK669UUqAWweyMNc7hx5jFZ4hEQ=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Wade Barrett:</b> although he's already a member of the WWE family, Wade Barrett has only returned in the capacity of a NXT commentator. While everyone is focused on Corey Graves making a potential in-ring return, I'd like to see Wade Barrett step in the ring. Most people probably wouldn't expect his return, so it would get a big pop. He's got the size to be a threat and he's still in good shape, so he could even conceivably be one of the final four competitors instead of a surprise entrant that only lasts a few minutes. I don't really remember, outside of maybe Mr. Perfect in 2002, when a Rumble return lasted long enough to potentially win the match.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifDXqW76mwJc8dQ_JO9i4b4-OU2S7sDXFwfwsMttQ1fxGhYt8i-8OBE52XO4M_c1ofilFytkjLddrSTUCXMzY1Y1awlVGyyO-7Au2hLf9ehiDtHT7xy7EU_A5QYJ-sZerMf9ak8mGse9QAFpNT5dedscmwp2RT_xhosxK6X-XWoQZ_g1xWcYix-85NcQ=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifDXqW76mwJc8dQ_JO9i4b4-OU2S7sDXFwfwsMttQ1fxGhYt8i-8OBE52XO4M_c1ofilFytkjLddrSTUCXMzY1Y1awlVGyyO-7Au2hLf9ehiDtHT7xy7EU_A5QYJ-sZerMf9ak8mGse9QAFpNT5dedscmwp2RT_xhosxK6X-XWoQZ_g1xWcYix-85NcQ=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Ronda Rousey:</b> this woman has some unfinished business in WWE. Was Ronda Rousey swerving us recently when she claimed she didn't even know what her contract status was? I hope so. I actually don't really think she'll show up, but I'm crossing my fingers that I'm wrong. The sloppy finish to the Rousey / Lynch / Flair Wrestlemania match leaves things open for Ronda to come back and say, 'I kicked out! You're not even a true champion!' Ronda had a baby. Maybe she wants another one, but, if not, then she can check motherhood off her list. One more WWE run could wrap up some things very nicely.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjO13AsjNfggOeoGtKJtgwF2Lg8j69o-pCK55rYXc4sqNYEovBPNn8Is5xeB5CPs64jhtqn9PaZyfV3weoNZubS768G8RuQ6RP_vR6HuoCVOzaPh9cQ6FPzRYhiGrGNB0Zn2__Sk3t13juFRD6bgDB3HTue8_uirWhZ_9AcIicMLFD4oiM0tv8Utahztg=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjO13AsjNfggOeoGtKJtgwF2Lg8j69o-pCK55rYXc4sqNYEovBPNn8Is5xeB5CPs64jhtqn9PaZyfV3weoNZubS768G8RuQ6RP_vR6HuoCVOzaPh9cQ6FPzRYhiGrGNB0Zn2__Sk3t13juFRD6bgDB3HTue8_uirWhZ_9AcIicMLFD4oiM0tv8Utahztg=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />Connor McGregor:</b> another UFC icon, McGregor could easily pull a Ronda Rousey and get some eyeballs on the product. Matches with Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and A.J. Styles would be very interesting to see. I don't think he'd be a longstanding member of the WWE roster, but a 1 year deal with some fantasy matches? Absolutely! In a time when WWE needs to kind of compete with AEW (and, more importantly, just draw more attention to their own product), McGregor is a name who could make some headlines. I really don't think he'll end up in WWE, so he'll have a permanent spot on my WWE wishlist.<p></p><p><br /></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVkVQ5CtFWuy4qPREEvdGd1UNCX-5RJ-sSkH-cZvJcvPCs5J9Ir2xMUZV-LMRwXnFy6joIEX2-6qO6u8Hji7uwr7v7AsuoW3qfLhBFfn-e9r0dFRzEFhH5f1xalMDWPUPfKN_VkXp-_HdlKHRC-1GngXHSHJCEyZLqLN1IsblTRWve8jPhCf6P0aHuPQ=s908" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="908" data-original-width="824" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgVkVQ5CtFWuy4qPREEvdGd1UNCX-5RJ-sSkH-cZvJcvPCs5J9Ir2xMUZV-LMRwXnFy6joIEX2-6qO6u8Hji7uwr7v7AsuoW3qfLhBFfn-e9r0dFRzEFhH5f1xalMDWPUPfKN_VkXp-_HdlKHRC-1GngXHSHJCEyZLqLN1IsblTRWve8jPhCf6P0aHuPQ=w181-h200" width="181" /></a></b></div><b><br />BONUS: Tessa Blanchard:</b> she'd be the biggest free agent name to show up in the Royal Rumble since A.J. Styles. It wouldn't work for very competitor, but Tessa is well known enough that she'd get a reaction. If WWE doesn't sign her soon, then a Charlotte / Tessa Blanchard feud wouldn't happen. I don't have much hope that Tessa will end up in WWE, but I'd mark out if she did. She and Charlotte is a match that could main event Summerslam or Wrestlemania.<p></p><p><br /></p><p>Those are the main people I'd pop for, but I'll leave you with a few other names I'd like to see: Mr. Kennedy (if he's in ring shape), Kurt Angle, Jimmy Wang Yang, Disco Inferno, Tajiri, Lacey Evans, James Elsworth, and Candice Michelle.</p><div><br /></div><p><b>Related Content:</b></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-return-for-2021-mens-royal.html">Who should return for the 2021 men's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2021/01/who-should-win-2021-womens-royal-rumble.html">Who should win the 2021 women's Royal Rumble?</a></li><li><a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2020/01/wwe-hall-of-fame-suggestions-through.html">WWE Hall of Fame suggestions through 2031</a></li></ul><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-65387208151900035602021-01-30T12:00:00.008-05:002022-01-19T12:52:02.009-05:00Who should return for the 2021 men's Royal Rumble?<p><span style="color: #454545; font-family: Helvetica Neue;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqXIHV7IKwa6jd349e_j6fF1DEC6W00OHBAhaXWIG6ZyG-UsmohQAGmCEXKvwvnu8TYQLdwpBm-2iWM8upuM-b-aKTJvg-RLBhOTmMP2kd8kSCEOf6NSOxuRWF0dvmYQvXVsVeTFN7OaO/s1053/Untitled-1mensroyalrumble.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="1053" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqXIHV7IKwa6jd349e_j6fF1DEC6W00OHBAhaXWIG6ZyG-UsmohQAGmCEXKvwvnu8TYQLdwpBm-2iWM8upuM-b-aKTJvg-RLBhOTmMP2kd8kSCEOf6NSOxuRWF0dvmYQvXVsVeTFN7OaO/w351-h123/Untitled-1mensroyalrumble.jpg" width="351" /></a></span></div><span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div><span><span><br /></span></span></div></span></span><div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span>The Royal Rumble is always a fun match. It's probably my favorite event of the year, beating out Survivor Series (</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69);">which</span><span> has become a boring Raw vs. Smackdown event) or even Wrestlemania. One of the main reasons I love it is because it's like a giant Avengers movie. You see people cross paths who normally don't cross paths. You have history and new feuds all happening at the same time.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another reason is the surprise returns. I always hope for at least a handful of them. We've seen Kevin Nash, Goldust, Booker T, Bubba Ray Dudley and others blow the roof off of the arenas with some of their surprise Royal Rumble returns.</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: inherit;">So who should appear this year? Which surprises would be refreshing and/or memorable? Here's my list:</span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span><b>X-Pac<br /></b></span><span>He recently stated he’d like to return in some capacity for one more run. Why not give him a return at the Royal Rumble? He’s one of the most talented guys of the 90s and deserves some shine.</span></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Disco Inferno</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This one may seem a bit odd, but I’d love to see some WCW flavor in a Royal Rumble match. Disco has one of those gimmicks that is memorable and would get a pop from fans in the arena or watching at home. Certainly, he wouldn’t be a contender to win the match, but I’d prefer seeing him over a Hornswoggle or Santino.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">James Elsworth</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even James Elsworth would be preferred over the regulars that WWE brings back over and over (and over) again. A little comedy. A familiar face. In and out. He’s not a bad option.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ken Shamrock</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I always hold out hope that Shamrock’s music will hit on a legends night or at a Royal Rumble. It probably won’t happen but I hope does because he’s so severely underrated and way ahead of his time, transitioning from MMA to pro wrestling back when not many people even knew what MMA was.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heath Slater</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m not sure what Heath’s current status is with Impact, but if it’s a pay-per-appearance or not an exclusive deal, then why not a Royal Rumble return? They don’t need to hire him back full time but a return for a night and to pop the crowd wouldn’t be bad at all.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Christian</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">His longtime former tag team partner, Edge, returned last year. It’d be really cool for Christian to have a Royal Rumble return as well, even if it doesn’t lead to additional matches.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">CM Punk</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The only way CM Punk should return in the Rumble is if he wins it. He’s too big of a name to return for a quick elimination. So, I'd like to see him return and win and feud with Roman or Drew or whoever the red or blue brand champions are.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Damien Sandow</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This was a well-liked character from a few years ago. With the NWA situation being up-in-the-air due to COVID, a one-night return at the Royal Rumble would be a welcome surprise.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">David Hart Smith</span></b></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tyson Kidd recently said that he’s been trying to get Davey Boy’s son to resign with WWE. With years of experience in Japan, MLW and other organizations, I’d also like to see that. Even if he’s not the most charismatic on the mic, give him a manager like Robert Stone and push him. Brock Lesnar isn’t a great talker either but that’s why he has Paul Heyman.</span></p></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-8438493411692262512021-01-29T11:43:00.001-05:002021-01-29T11:43:06.392-05:00Who should win the 2021 women's Royal Rumble?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7XYJ1Je4HJdMMCMY1WqMC6EM9O5FBGjB6jFasgze4ha5rlNxXl7N0Hx4qQa7TvAgocU_S8-GhWB4MULjR8tOk0pOK6jCtL5ccT85H8IxrnBajRBgxGBbaYGgbarNpUboRJdJ_qPvkOev/s1053/Untitled-1Rumble2021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="369" data-original-width="1053" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7XYJ1Je4HJdMMCMY1WqMC6EM9O5FBGjB6jFasgze4ha5rlNxXl7N0Hx4qQa7TvAgocU_S8-GhWB4MULjR8tOk0pOK6jCtL5ccT85H8IxrnBajRBgxGBbaYGgbarNpUboRJdJ_qPvkOev/s320/Untitled-1Rumble2021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>2018 - Asuka won the first ever women's Royal Rumble. 2019 - Becky Lynch won the women's Royal Rumble. 2020 - the third female winner of the Royal Rumble was Charlotte Flair.<div><br /></div><div>So who wins 2021? Let's look at the options.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bayley</b></div><div>If you're looking at the past three years, then one of the other two 4 Horsewomen (Bayley or Sasha Banks) have the best chances of doing so. Given that Sasha is the Smackdown Women's Champion, she won't actually be competing in the Royal Rumble. So, Bayley may have the best odds of winning. The only problem is that Bayley vs. Sasha just happened. It just wrapped up. Sure, we could revisit it, but WWE would need to make it fresh after the feud this past Fall. I don't think she will win, but I think Bayley will be one of the final four women in the match.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Charlotte Flair</b></div><div>WWE allowed Steve Austin to win multiple Royal Rumble matches, so they could do the same with Charlotte Flair this go around, but I doubt it (and I hope not!). She won a Women's Tag Team title on her first night back in December. She doesn't need another Royal Rumble victory.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Natalya</b></div><div>She's loyal and a good worker, but she's not at the level of winning a Royal Rumble and being the centerpiece of a feud going into Wrestlemania.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Bianca Belair</b></div><div>She's young and athletic, but she is also not at the level of winning a Royal Rumble and being the centerpiece of a feud going into Wrestlemania. I could see WWE pulling the trigger on her, though. Sasha vs. Bianca as faces? I don't know that this would work all the way through Wrestlemania. I think Bianca would have to turn heel, which is fine by me because I think she's better that way.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Naomi</b></div><div>WWE could give this fan favorite her chance at a big moment. She's certainly won titles and battle royals in the past, but she's never had as big a win as the Royal Rumble would be. Naomi vs. Sasha isn't a bad idea for a Wrestlemania match. It's more of a face vs. face unless one of them turns heel, but that may be a nice change. Maybe some heel turn teases with neither one actually going full heel?</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Sonya Deville</b></div><div>I've seen her name thrown around as a possible winner and I wouldn't even be disappointed with it. She doesn't have a lot of big match experience but Sasha could walk her through a match. Sonya came into her own in 2020 and developed a strong heel persona. She improved as a character and on the microphone thanks to her feud with Mandy Rose. I don't know that she'd walk out of Wrestlemania with a title win, but she'd be a solid heel for Sasha to feud with.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Rhea Ripley</b></div><div>She got a Wrestlemania moment with Charlotte in 2020, but Rhea could be the one winning this year and challenging Asuka or Charlotte (assuming Charlotte wins the Raw Women's Title before Wrestlemania) or both of them in a triple threat. I just don't have an interest in anything involving Charlotte, but I don't have faith WWE will put effort into anything <i>not</i> involving Charlotte. So, I guess I'd settle for a triple threat.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Nia Jax</b></div><div>She has a certain credibility to her, due to her size. Even if she's not the best worker, she could convincingly win a Royal Rumble on any night. I don't know how she lines up in any feuds, though. Asuka vs. Jax has happened several times before. It wouldn't be a bad match to have. If Nia won and challenged Asuka for the Raw Women's Title, then you could have a secondary feud between Charlotte and Shayna Baszler going into Wrestlemania as well. It'd be refreshing to not have Charlotte in the title picture (which means WWE will probably throw her right into the title picture).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Shayna Baszler</b></div><div>Just like her tag team partner, Shayna could win the Rumble. She could face Asuka at Wrestlemania. She could face Flair at Wrestlemania (should Flair win the Raw Women's Title before then). However, I think WWE will simply have Shayna and Nia turn on each other in the Rumble match with a big 'payoff match' happening on a random Raw instead of culminating at a pay-per-view.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Ronda Rousey</b></div><div>A returning Ronda Rousey would be my pick to win. She shows up, cleans house and goes onto Wrestlemania. Asuka would probably lose her Raw Women's Title to Charlotte Flair at February's pay-per-view and then it'd be Charlotte vs. Ronda Rousey (the match WWE wanted back in 2019). I'd actually prefer Ronda Rousey vs. Asuka, but I doubt WWE would leave Charlotte out of a match like that, so, if I want Asuka / Rousey, then a triple threat Asuka vs. Rousey vs. Flair is probably the only way it'll happen.</div><div><br /></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-70788678924716035332021-01-04T14:53:00.007-05:002023-03-16T11:23:26.072-04:009 musical collaborations I'd like to seeSome singers collaborate and they are like peanut butter and jelly. Their voices complement each other, their attitudes are similar or they are so different that it just works.<br />
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<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LFqiWCIHIW_GX4XP2Mh_62sfVl98Z-YPf2-FIgOPWiLlpLOpm1W3lxm-6R5pfKH7UJ5CA1YrTcEdMTC4pSmJB7jGsJmfSJC6J528z4GkU6cufv0EVSyMGUAIQ5x9QFRgJbbj-xbnPxo/s1923/PinkNicki.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho9LFqiWCIHIW_GX4XP2Mh_62sfVl98Z-YPf2-FIgOPWiLlpLOpm1W3lxm-6R5pfKH7UJ5CA1YrTcEdMTC4pSmJB7jGsJmfSJC6J528z4GkU6cufv0EVSyMGUAIQ5x9QFRgJbbj-xbnPxo/s320/PinkNicki.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Pink and Nicki Minaj</b><br />
Cardi B is the 'it' girl these days but I kind of prefer Nicki Minaj. Her pop songs are catchy. Pink and Nicki seem like a good combo.<br />
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Pink has collaborated with Kenny Chesney, Eminem and, of course, the other singers on 'Lady Marmalade.' Nicki did one of the best collaborations since 'Lady Marmalade' when she teamed up with Ariana Grande and Jessie J for 'Bang Bang.' This just seems like it would be a fun collaboration in music video form and in song form.<div><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJft5cOaDoZcW2AVgzVWAvGHUMqfmecTBNyAmmG2AfhcaMALLHgMpgI26NAVwICP2vRwmCW5XYvLl9_P_BeI9HpajNpj9Zed1brWKCXSe9WGTid6jL4gbSVgpuouncvUEM5V4Zx9PjUuX7/s1923/EricChurchDaughtry.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJft5cOaDoZcW2AVgzVWAvGHUMqfmecTBNyAmmG2AfhcaMALLHgMpgI26NAVwICP2vRwmCW5XYvLl9_P_BeI9HpajNpj9Zed1brWKCXSe9WGTid6jL4gbSVgpuouncvUEM5V4Zx9PjUuX7/s320/EricChurchDaughtry.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Chris Daughtry and Eric Church</b><br />
These two North Carolina boys who both love rock music could put together an incredible song. While Daughtry is more rock and Church is more country, they both have some overlapping themes and sounds in their music.<br />
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Both have delivered very good albums not too long ago, but they didn't get the attention they necessarily deserved. Maybe a team-up is in order for another hit on the radio for both of them?<br /><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7F0lqvQ5e2xvFpVqQNVPMSyOYkXlVEG9WFh6siPsbAhIAk9T_Lea0IzG31xw0gcB6otOW8NQUHuFAp5vDPwxT2PqDmlVlFkF8ESbLhwhZAwSQh-T2g8EY_Jw33UV449uagvfziUCtVdR/s1923/PinkKelly.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7F0lqvQ5e2xvFpVqQNVPMSyOYkXlVEG9WFh6siPsbAhIAk9T_Lea0IzG31xw0gcB6otOW8NQUHuFAp5vDPwxT2PqDmlVlFkF8ESbLhwhZAwSQh-T2g8EY_Jw33UV449uagvfziUCtVdR/s320/PinkKelly.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Pink and Kelly Clarkson</b><br />
I think most of their fans are waiting on this to happen. Hopefully it does. If it does happen, hopefully it's not left in the vault like Lady Gaga and Cher's collaboration or Pink and Christina's team-up. <div><br /></div><div>Technically, Pink and Kelly did have a duet together at the American Music Awards, but the song choice wasn't great and, besides, it was a cover. I'd prefer an original collaboration over covering someone else's music.<div><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDj3JiljITe3IcFf15CuYfLTXBhJXkRBIWmwNlIXSFCTdlL8vPXwlggQxZ4agXfPg8tI-U8e7KPaKx5c-NRtgty4gndEZMGvphU23HmM95sOuNrNxJTRa2BgBqfSLB8-pOQLJQpOQVw_Pn/s1923/DariusSugarland.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDj3JiljITe3IcFf15CuYfLTXBhJXkRBIWmwNlIXSFCTdlL8vPXwlggQxZ4agXfPg8tI-U8e7KPaKx5c-NRtgty4gndEZMGvphU23HmM95sOuNrNxJTRa2BgBqfSLB8-pOQLJQpOQVw_Pn/s320/DariusSugarland.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Sugarland and Darius Rucker</b><br />
Two awesome country acts and two awesome voices here. Sugarland has been a tremendous duo for several years. Darius is no stranger to a group act, so harmonizing shouldn't be a problem. He did great with Adele several years ago. Darius and Sugarland both had a sound that can be mainstream or flat out country. I don't care what genre they produce as long as they produce a song together.<br />
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<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZ3BzdDgX0YNa5-VhjJ5v8ysyoZB5Gsr0jZwadHYFW1MVVnXaeoHVh7xNvYQeUhGOH94IZSvZnsRK68OlsQ-Y4PEnvU3rBrZEtYClYHDIYJSnS1DgTttq6rUykairnp77YF8yOxG9kFJI/s1923/GagaBruno.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdZ3BzdDgX0YNa5-VhjJ5v8ysyoZB5Gsr0jZwadHYFW1MVVnXaeoHVh7xNvYQeUhGOH94IZSvZnsRK68OlsQ-Y4PEnvU3rBrZEtYClYHDIYJSnS1DgTttq6rUykairnp77YF8yOxG9kFJI/s320/GagaBruno.png" width="320" /></a></div>Bruno Mars and Lady Gaga</b><br />
These two can sing! Two great voices that work with just about any musical style you put them into. Both of these Super Bowl halftime performers on the same track? </div><div><br /></div><div>It could end up being really disappointing (e.g. Chris Stapleton and Pink), but it could also turn out really cool. I'd love to see them at least take a shot at doing something great.</div><div><br /></div><div><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxiVjMMZbwX38KN-vZJJdWUprLIH99-_g923s0lC0d5LpRS6SvxIOSuz_3phhCSHe2N7LBD3DLvbnU1rUOmUc5OXd0RxYF9ZbJIbYkcLcaqGdkCddUnjG8qcK2D6PX3mSkv7axl8J-7zy/s1923/DrakeMaroon5.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQxiVjMMZbwX38KN-vZJJdWUprLIH99-_g923s0lC0d5LpRS6SvxIOSuz_3phhCSHe2N7LBD3DLvbnU1rUOmUc5OXd0RxYF9ZbJIbYkcLcaqGdkCddUnjG8qcK2D6PX3mSkv7axl8J-7zy/s320/DrakeMaroon5.png" width="320" /></a></div>Drake and Maroon 5</b><br />
Maroon 5 has worked with all kinds of people in the past, but Drake would bring a different flavor for them. I think Adam and Drake's styles could complement each other very nicely. You'd get an interesting beat, some rap and some pop.</div><div><br /></div><div>Again, it could be a top 40 hit. Or it could be one of those tracks that ends up on an album that goes more unnoticed and unrecognized than it deserves to be. Either way, we get to listen to it.<br /><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnD6U470ioMZ780E89l8ZJg-nWgV0zSjM_685JmrmaS69lr09TDl6yyPR8mpiQ6afJM2hpJpdy_8HjSrAsqudzd4tAOy61QBaZCpSYoHGCxiVwcqEXmxpWC2RuBa9wgC_b80MTKbiz0Guy/s1923/DustinKelly.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnD6U470ioMZ780E89l8ZJg-nWgV0zSjM_685JmrmaS69lr09TDl6yyPR8mpiQ6afJM2hpJpdy_8HjSrAsqudzd4tAOy61QBaZCpSYoHGCxiVwcqEXmxpWC2RuBa9wgC_b80MTKbiz0Guy/s320/DustinKelly.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Dustin Lynch and Kelly Osbourne</b><br />
These two are friends in real life but couldn't be more different musically. Sometimes those are the times when collaborations work the best. Those unexpected musical styles can meld together and turn out something great.</div><div><br /></div><div>Usually, whether it's in movies or sport, real life friendships translates to success in other areas. It could end up being the same with these two as well.<br />
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<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EdUgpHfurXy5ztTInhAJautbTkNagcwZzA8diV81ooyoo14d8EK9j3axvCS8d9CpANohXLJuCVYqf04X_dxDuRWjCQBVIrd-rdW5kLtKxMGUajNwDTiR83s6NX_q0u7VQntrxTRsg_RS/s1923/MendesMiley.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0EdUgpHfurXy5ztTInhAJautbTkNagcwZzA8diV81ooyoo14d8EK9j3axvCS8d9CpANohXLJuCVYqf04X_dxDuRWjCQBVIrd-rdW5kLtKxMGUajNwDTiR83s6NX_q0u7VQntrxTRsg_RS/s320/MendesMiley.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Miley Cyrus and Shawn Mendes</b><br />
After seeing them perform together at the Grammys, I think a duet on their own song would end up sounding great. Like I said with Kelly Clarkson and Pink, singing together at an awards show is great, but performing an original is preferred.</div><div><br /></div><div>Between Cyrus' twang and Mendes' own unique voice, they'd end up with a very top 40-friendly hit.<br /><br />
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN86SSSjmhmtuNHktTF8rPbwsRP6CyiQxk1zWMnQqloZfW38b9l0a_5RkHGo7Ytn1mDZCjpiF41vtv9jBCOjFYoS8sXOoVoQMQfD4G4h8vq_GeSp3XxDyEaqLisG2NTdSW5ihkiG_HUr4p/s1923/FallOutSia.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1923" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN86SSSjmhmtuNHktTF8rPbwsRP6CyiQxk1zWMnQqloZfW38b9l0a_5RkHGo7Ytn1mDZCjpiF41vtv9jBCOjFYoS8sXOoVoQMQfD4G4h8vq_GeSp3XxDyEaqLisG2NTdSW5ihkiG_HUr4p/s320/FallOutSia.png" width="320" /></a></div><br />Fall Out Boy and Sia</b><br />
This collaboration seems kind of odd, but kind of perfect at the same time. Fall Out Boy has a history of working with all kinds of acts -- from Elton John to Courtney Love to Demi Lovato. Meanwhile, Sia has a unique sound that could mesh very well with a Fall Out Boy song.<br />
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Sia's collaboration with Pink was far too overproduced so 'Waterfall' didn't make any kind of dent on the charts. Sia and Fall Out Boy could get the job done though.<br /><br /></div></div></div><div><br /></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-81026659612338285422020-12-29T20:41:00.003-05:002020-12-29T20:41:51.876-05:00Some of the best and worst movies of 2020Boy, who could have ever predicted what 2020 would bring, huh? It was supposed to be the year of the female superhero, with Harley Quinn, Black Widow and Wonder Woman dominating the screen. That didn't quite happen, but the Harley Quinn movie did end up being one of the top grossing movies of the year. That probably wouldn't have happened without COVID-19.<div><br /></div><div>Despite the pandemic, there were some good movies released in 2020. <div><br /></div><div>A lot of the movies you'd expect to see in theaters were released on HBO Max, Disney+ or one of the other dozen streaming services that exist these days. <div><br /></div><div>I saw one of the movies pre-pandemic and most of them after the pandemic while in the movie theater, in the past 2 months. </div><div><br /></div><div>So let's take a look at this years relatively small list (be warned, <b><i>SPOILERS</i></b> <b><u>are</u></b> below ...)<div> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkI0re2rH-iH-WAbueJcq-XQl7lk6_0Wk3nppueEFGiuMP3auZ7r3qJ7nxoZ9FN1NbnUr9luq7DFzaIMaE7psoys2d-XKJVtpYXd5trX1y6xd8Hcas2YqJbMafaj5AjbukWEvwGTPXYUxL/s837/MovieRatingKidDetective2020.png" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkI0re2rH-iH-WAbueJcq-XQl7lk6_0Wk3nppueEFGiuMP3auZ7r3qJ7nxoZ9FN1NbnUr9luq7DFzaIMaE7psoys2d-XKJVtpYXd5trX1y6xd8Hcas2YqJbMafaj5AjbukWEvwGTPXYUxL/s320/MovieRatingKidDetective2020.png" /></a></div><b>The Kid Detective</b></div><div>I saw this trailer and thought, 'Huh, I'd watch that.' It's not one I probably would've ever gone to see in the theater typically, but in 2020? It made the cut. I'm glad it did. It's a quirky dark comedy that has some surprising depth, tackles a serious subject matter and gets a few chuckles. </div><div><br /></div><div> The actors were all engaging and the story had a couple of twists that I didn't see coming. Usually I see the twists from a mile away, so I was surprised it got me. </div><div><br /></div><div>There was some unneeded swearing (I wasn't offended by any means, but it just wasn't needed) but that was probably one of the only negatives. It was a comedy some a few unrealistic situations can be forgiven. It's not meant to be serious.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's not a movie that will leave you walking away happy, but the story was complete and I think it probably ended the way it should've. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final rating:</b> 3 stars </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IAA2ouai6jUcAxeT1pLU0YfsSNW5_hODy5PfRAf-tXSQTwq2Q95_dD3qWJJLEm2cZ98O54y3_nAEvxVf0Pn8mZDnxEsC-bPiFxL7Jsvq_Uuaew7JhjVRb5YhEhbqC6wb3CzbZ95EDIDK/s837/MovieRatingMulan2020.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_IAA2ouai6jUcAxeT1pLU0YfsSNW5_hODy5PfRAf-tXSQTwq2Q95_dD3qWJJLEm2cZ98O54y3_nAEvxVf0Pn8mZDnxEsC-bPiFxL7Jsvq_Uuaew7JhjVRb5YhEhbqC6wb3CzbZ95EDIDK/s320/MovieRatingMulan2020.png" /></a></div><br />Mulan</b></div><div>I wasn't sure how good this movie would be. Disney's live action movies have a pretty spotty record. They range from bad (<i>Maleficent 2</i>, <i>Aladdin</i>) to boring (<i>Dumbo</i>) to okay (<i>The Lion King</i>, <i>Cinderella</i>, <i>Beauty and the Beast</i>) to really good (<i>Maleficent</i>) to awesome (<i>The Jungle Book</i>). I thought Mulan may be a little better due to the fact that it was an action movie. That didn't help. </div><div><br /></div><div>It was an OK movie but nowhere near as good as the animated version. I'm not sure why they change things from the original. I'm not sure what the actual story of Mulan entails --- if there was a version before the Disney version and, if so, if Disney took liberties with it --- but the movie version included unnecessary changes. </div><div><br /></div><div>The female villain really wasn't needed in this story. The main villain (Bori Khan) didn't compare to Shan Yu. The actor did a fine job, but I'm not sure why they didn't just use the Shan Yu character instead.</div><div><br /></div><div>There never really was a great, epic moment or a scary moment. The movie didn't drag but it never really took off either. The action was OK, but certainly nothing that impressive in the age of Marvel movies. It seemed like a few too many people had the power of the chi, too. </div><div><br /></div><div>When 4 or 5 people in the movie can do all kinds of flips and twists and turns, it takes away the excitement. It's not special anymore.</div><div><br /></div><div>It seemed like this movie focused a little too much on female empowerment instead of the main character, Mulan. </div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final rating:</b> 3 stars </div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoF5wi0afK5LcT3gDBXCj4dJVcY3H-OSNJIIVcnpDnAoV3T1Y96ZNst4cQTDHxRWQXE5-E3F4B-yguA5fMjwHJs5p6g-z0NwH1aTs-in80-pZVWiU6NctuwykB7HfAsTUJps0U-gpW7Vb/s837/MovieRatingBirdsofPrey2020.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoF5wi0afK5LcT3gDBXCj4dJVcY3H-OSNJIIVcnpDnAoV3T1Y96ZNst4cQTDHxRWQXE5-E3F4B-yguA5fMjwHJs5p6g-z0NwH1aTs-in80-pZVWiU6NctuwykB7HfAsTUJps0U-gpW7Vb/s320/MovieRatingBirdsofPrey2020.png" /></a></div><br />Birds of Prey</b></div><div>I was probably one of the few who liked <i>Suicide Squad</i>, but I was hoping this movie would be really good and provide some fun. It did provide some fun but I wish it would've taken itself a little more seriously. Harley Quinn taking out a squad of police and an entire cell of inmates in the matter of minutes was hard to believe, superhero movie or not.</div><div><br /></div><div>That being said, the visuals were not boring. Margot Robbie was entertaining in her return as Harley. There was a different flavor than Suicide Squad so the character is evolving.</div><div><br /></div><div>The rest of the cast was OK, too. Rosie Perez was probably my favorite of the rest of them. Jurnee Smollett wasn't a great Black Canary. She didn't seem intimidating or athletic. All of the <i>Arrow</i> versions have been much better.</div><div><br /></div><div>Mary Elizabeth Winstead as Huntress wasn't that impressive either. She wasn't bad, but I doubt the character will be remembered 5 years from now. Ella Jay Basco as Cassandra Cain was a good casting choice.</div><div><br /></div><div>This version of Victor Zsaz wasn't very good. I'd have preferred the Gotham version. Ewan McGregor as Black Mask was a bit off. I don't think the character or the casting really delivered.</div><div><br /></div><div>The format of the story was disjointed but it worked. The ending though? That scene on the docks? Anti-climactic. Cheap looking set and visuals, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>It was good advancement for Harley Quinn but you need a good supporting cast of characters to carry a movie. One good character just doesn't do it.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final rating:</b> 3 stars.</div><div><br /></div><div>
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjky55zL7Ub5oQW8cgGDN7Pra4Y3tx8VgXNFlD2Kl0P0ERmZAFEnS5-v-F0Y_utXq7hv39YaTMb_yM7yZI7PcbPPV8cAV3vsqDEi5WtVgSYSOPGQAvc1mxWoUwZVMGXNoRskE7Uqyj8dSxL/s837/MovieRatingWW842020.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjky55zL7Ub5oQW8cgGDN7Pra4Y3tx8VgXNFlD2Kl0P0ERmZAFEnS5-v-F0Y_utXq7hv39YaTMb_yM7yZI7PcbPPV8cAV3vsqDEi5WtVgSYSOPGQAvc1mxWoUwZVMGXNoRskE7Uqyj8dSxL/s320/MovieRatingWW842020.png" /></a></div><br />Wonder Woman 84</b></div><div>There's some controversy about the movie reviews right now. Some people liked it. Others didn't. I can see both points of view because I'm somewhere in the middle of this debate.</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know enough about the Wonder Woman character, so I can't speak as to whether Patty Jenkins followed the origins of the characters here. I've always been familiar with the character, but I never watched the TV show or read a solo Wonder Woman comic. Everything I know about the character is from team up comics or Justice League appearances.</div><div><br /></div><div>It seemed like Patty threw some treats the way of the more avid Wonder Woman fans (the invisible jet, a Lynda Carter cameo) but apparently she changed the origins of Cheetah and Maxwell Lord. I didn't mind seeing as how I don't know the origins of those characters. Also, if we're complaining about that, we have to complain about Hela and others in the MCU.</div><div><br /></div><div>Kristin Wiig was a good choice for Cheetah. She was a compelling character. She was one of the best parts of the movie, frankly. I'd like to see her return at some point, but I'm not sure that will happen.</div><div><br /></div><div>Visuals were off and on in this sequel. The 80s vibe was definitely there in terms of the outfits. The soundtrack could've taken a page out of the Guardians of the Galaxy playbook and used some classic songs to set the mood, though.</div><div><br /></div><div>The action sequences left a lot to be desired. They weren't fluid at all. I think the original Superman movies had more fluid, convincing flying sequences. If they can make Aquaman seem like he's really swimming under water, I'm not sure why Wonder Woman's flying and leaping and running seemed so poorly enhanced.</div><div><br /></div><div>One of the best scenes of the movie was the opening one, with the games being held in Themyscira.</div><div><br /></div><div>The story was a little bit all over and, as a result, it hurt the pacing of the movie. There were some sloppy moments that the writers just didn't seem to care about (an airplane from the Smithsonian just happens to have enough fuel to make it across the Atlantic??). There were other moments that were just too convenient (they quickly found a guy with a book that explains exactly what the Dreamstone does). There were also some really fun moments like the mall scene and the White House scene.</div><div><br /></div><div>I don't know that I laughed once. There were some one-liners but D.C. (or at least Patty Jenkins) just doesn't do comedy like Marvel does. Gal Gadot is a gem and delivers all of her lines as they should be delivered. Chris Pine is convincing in his role as well. Maxwell Lord was fine, but it felt a bit too much like the writers were trying to duplicate the 90s Batman movies where one villain just wasn't enough. I don't think that's always needed.</div><div><br /></div><div>All of that being said, Wonder Woman continued to evolve and, while this adventure wasn't needed, I can't say I'm disappointed it happened. I am hoping the third version gets back on track because while this was an OK pit stop, it seemed a bit off course.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final rating:</b> 3.5</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>
<b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qkaMOm5Jbdcu5Qkmth1dMnW-hkvrtCcqv7MC_Vio5n31s56t0rLhZXTJYCfO_dz9wJSDNznLVPEQ4cVA9dwi0xwhBczeENv2YJMuI2P7VhkXJOCZfwRyegQotOAz_v19-bFBECXoa_x3/s837/MovieRatingFreaky2020.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_qkaMOm5Jbdcu5Qkmth1dMnW-hkvrtCcqv7MC_Vio5n31s56t0rLhZXTJYCfO_dz9wJSDNznLVPEQ4cVA9dwi0xwhBczeENv2YJMuI2P7VhkXJOCZfwRyegQotOAz_v19-bFBECXoa_x3/s320/MovieRatingFreaky2020.png" /></a></div><br />Freaky</b></div><div>Finally, the best of the bunch, was a version of <i>Freaky Friday</i>. It mixed comedy with horror. It was released on Friday the 13th. The name is a play off of Freaky Friday. It was a fresh take on a classic tale.</div><div><br /></div><div>The movie was part comedy and part horror, so you can't really take it seriously, but the actors believed in themselves and I did too. Sure, you sit there and think 'a head doesn't really split that way when put through a table saw,' but as one of the only comedy / horror body switch movies there is, it doesn't really matter. </div><div><br /></div><div>The scene where the Blissfield Butcher approaches Millie on the football field is somewhat intense because you want her to escape, but it's also entertaining seeing her run in the mascot uniform.</div><div><br /></div><div>Vince Vaughn and Kathryn Newton were equally entertaining as they reversed roles. The rest of the supporting cast was really good, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>This kind of movie doesn't really lend itself to a sequel, but if you're a fan of the body switch genre, this was a fun movie to see.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Final rating:</b> 4 stars</div><div><br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>
<b>Related Content:</b><br /></div><div>
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/aladdin-2019-reviewed.html">Aladdin (2019) - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
</div></div></div></div>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-56930043135959198762020-01-02T10:31:00.001-05:002023-02-27T14:51:39.047-05:00WWE Hall of Fame suggestions through 2031The new year means a few things: new year's resolutions. Award shows. The Super Bowl.<br />
<br />
For wrestling fans it also means a few things: the Royal Rumble, the road to Wrestlemania and ... Hall of Fame inductions.<br />
<br />
One of the best nights of the year has become the night of the Hall of Fame ceremony. Colorful speeches, fun road stories and seeing wrestlers of yesteryear are all part of the night that kicks off Wrestlemania weekend.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Here are a few of my ideal Hall of Fame classes</u></b><br />
<br />
The years aren't exact, but a rough timeline of what I think would work out well<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DiOviUzMVLbcGl5MCmDw-ERt1O8_i7R8hH556qH0g-SwnKHyyP5kliHXe-mN8vH5S5iuPhObY9ZoJ6povrWVV-GbZV3iM4pOwtoauucsPggAfKEY7UOPF96RQc40868rj2GsBbmAnn1J/s1600/blog+rock.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="533" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DiOviUzMVLbcGl5MCmDw-ERt1O8_i7R8hH556qH0g-SwnKHyyP5kliHXe-mN8vH5S5iuPhObY9ZoJ6povrWVV-GbZV3iM4pOwtoauucsPggAfKEY7UOPF96RQc40868rj2GsBbmAnn1J/s320/blog+rock.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>
2020 (in Tampa):<br /></b>
The Rock (headlining, obviously)<br />
Christian (he's from Tampa)<br />
Jushin Thunder Liger (he's retiring this month)<br />
Vader<br />
Taz<br />
Molly Holly<br />
<br /><b>
2021:</b><br />
The Undertaker<br />
Rob Van Dam<br />
The British Bulldog<br />
Jim Cornette<br />
Victoria<br />
<br /><b>
2022:<br /></b>
The Big Show<br />
The Steiner Brothers<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hnhot6bYSyPMG-K3lBUzpsdZGAJrFg1CvKb727S0RzN49JOQE5o22y6C2PyyoIBVGDnu7wQErvzWWG3mDDHQNMaydyDXpE_U8EfF-ALpFEG3mHREj_Zs4NFURtHpdfQHxzW60rayLvvi/s1600/blog+cyndi.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1164" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-hnhot6bYSyPMG-K3lBUzpsdZGAJrFg1CvKb727S0RzN49JOQE5o22y6C2PyyoIBVGDnu7wQErvzWWG3mDDHQNMaydyDXpE_U8EfF-ALpFEG3mHREj_Zs4NFURtHpdfQHxzW60rayLvvi/s320/blog+cyndi.jpg" width="320" /></a>Cyndi Lauper (Celebrity Wing)<br />
Eric Bischoff<br />
Goldust<br />
Luna Vachon<br />
<br /><b>
2023:<br /></b>
Batista<br />
Rob Van Dam<br />
Paul Heyman (I assume he'll have wrapped up most of his on-camera work for WWE by that point)<br />
Brian Pillman<br />
Dean Malenko<br />
Lilian Garcia<br />
<br /><b>
2024:<br /></b>
Kane<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwiSxZQ_DytTuX521YYNqPnExxhZ88aboHmbwTw-Xd1gFO9y0H-VE3yaBfFvgFr-tzIReRTzoMSlrNtWFJUwysTVxnIgv-uTMel-uomUSIy28jZlZvqhw7doCABtjK7GuNmJuis5PIKvQ/s1600/blog+cena.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="774" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOwiSxZQ_DytTuX521YYNqPnExxhZ88aboHmbwTw-Xd1gFO9y0H-VE3yaBfFvgFr-tzIReRTzoMSlrNtWFJUwysTVxnIgv-uTMel-uomUSIy28jZlZvqhw7doCABtjK7GuNmJuis5PIKvQ/s320/blog+cena.jpg" width="320" /></a>Shaquille O'Neal (Celebrity Wing)<br />
Al Snow<br />
Miss Elizabeth<br />
Demolition<br />
Great Muta<br />
<br /><b>
2025:<br /></b>
John Cena<br />
Paige (unless she still has a regular on-camera role with WWE)<br />
Sycho Sid<br />
Lance Storm<br />
Vickie Guerrero<br />
<br /><b>
2026:<br /></b>
The Hardy Boyz<br />
Owen Hart (hopefully this can happen by then)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPK7QDHU6VraRWvbrpBcgpaHV7oKAa-MgcBUBpnCHFoggcZVsL53m59lO2F6x7ct7zqIMDYe90Ev3utNZgBSdmKR3OO9ylmqvme8xzeOcOUL9qjMuO7QIGNc3XV785cf33jkRIwFFtgkGO/s1600/blog+jericho.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1138" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPK7QDHU6VraRWvbrpBcgpaHV7oKAa-MgcBUBpnCHFoggcZVsL53m59lO2F6x7ct7zqIMDYe90Ev3utNZgBSdmKR3OO9ylmqvme8xzeOcOUL9qjMuO7QIGNc3XV785cf33jkRIwFFtgkGO/s320/blog+jericho.jpg" width="320" /></a>William Regal<br />
Regis Philbin (Celebrity Wing)<br />
Rick Martel<br />
Bull Nakano<br />
Earl Hebner<br />
<div>
<br /></div><b>
2027:<br /></b>
Chris Jericho (I assume he'll be wrapped with AEW by that point)<br />
The n.W.o.<br />
Santino Marella<br />
The Nasty Boys<br />
Melina<br />
Marc Mero<br />
<div>
<br /></div><b>
2028:<br /></b>
Brock Lesnar<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdhPzFnVRbJqVsY_B4APzx84ajcVow_h3TBV79jdkwP4vST-dyjQCemzSAbc0UbdlWt-ShQuxAwWe6xh4cHf9eXT1PXo3ykD6qinWS7Cta0ZGOS6_NOONiLfCv3SOW8tdGaM1UU6wvC_C/s1600/blog+sable.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="237" data-original-width="253" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdhPzFnVRbJqVsY_B4APzx84ajcVow_h3TBV79jdkwP4vST-dyjQCemzSAbc0UbdlWt-ShQuxAwWe6xh4cHf9eXT1PXo3ykD6qinWS7Cta0ZGOS6_NOONiLfCv3SOW8tdGaM1UU6wvC_C/s320/blog+sable.jpg" width="320" /></a>The New Age Outlaws<br />
Rhyno<br />
Sable<br />
Bam Bam Bigelow<br />
<br /><b>
2029:<br /></b>
Rey Mysterio Jr (I assume he'll be retired by then)<br />
JBL<br />
Tajiri<br />
Finlay<br />
Ivan Koloff<br />
Mickie James (I assume she'll be retired by then)<br />
<div>
<br /></div><b>
2030:<br /></b>
CM Punk (hopefully WWE will mend this relationship)<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSrvHzrUsb9yk7jmk7Rx4Be1A9zQq9xjIz4Oxt9DAUzIw3mngb0Ohju_EgZDOG5MEmPfHVYYrdvwZJh1j0k4NV1ASieNCvNx6izZo1jYhJhKRS0tFYmCmGoKuZHFiyvLN1KHL0xnHxiYP/s1600/blog+rousey.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="443" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQSrvHzrUsb9yk7jmk7Rx4Be1A9zQq9xjIz4Oxt9DAUzIw3mngb0Ohju_EgZDOG5MEmPfHVYYrdvwZJh1j0k4NV1ASieNCvNx6izZo1jYhJhKRS0tFYmCmGoKuZHFiyvLN1KHL0xnHxiYP/s320/blog+rousey.jpg" width="315" /></a>AJ Lee (husband and wife being inducted on the same night would be pretty cool)<br />
Chavo Guerrero Jr.<br />
Chris Candido<br />
<div>
Último Dragón</div>
<div>
Joey Styles</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div><b>
2031:<br /></b>
Ronda Rousey<br />
Sheamus<br />
Tommy Dreamer<br />
<div>
Michael Cole</div>
The Brooklyn Brawler<br />
<div>
Chyna (solo induction)</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div><b>
2032:<br /></b>
Randy Orton<br />
Edge and Christian<br />
Michelle McCool<br />
Hardcore Holly<br />
Sabu<br />
Hornswoggle (though it pains me to type that)<br />
<div>
<br />
<br />
It's ambitious for WWE to patch up a few relationships (CM Punk, AJ Lee, Owen Hart's family, Demolition, Miss Elizabeth's family), but after WWE repaired relationships with Billy Graham, Warrior and Bruno Sammartino, I have faith it can be done.<br />
<br />
You've got a headliner each year. There's a mix of wrestlers and managers (and even a referee and ring announcer).<br />
<br />
In some cases you've got two or three big names. CM Punk and AJ Lee together should sell some tickets together. Lesnar, Sable and the New Age Outlaws are pretty big names. Jericho, the nWo and Santino would work.<br />
<br />
Cena and Paige is a strong combo, but Sid, Lance and Vickie definitely add to that.<br />
<br />
The Hardyz may need another big name if they are going to headline, but I think they probably could headline a Hall of Fame. Regis gives them a little bit of celebrity. Regal is the guy for the hardcore wrestling fans and wrestling purists. Bull Nakano should make a lot of women's wrestling fans and Japanese fans happy.<br />
<br />
There's not a tag team included every year, but I don't think there needs to be. There aren't enough Hall of Fame-worthy tag teams in my opinion.<br />
<br />
If you start inducting one woman every year, one tag team every year, one faction every year, etc., etc., then you box yourself into a corner.<br />
<br />
There aren't enough women, tag teams or factions to go in for the next 20 years. So, yes, give us some variety.<br />
<br />
Their biggest goals should be: inducting the glaring omissions as soon as they can and inducting legends while they are still alive.<br />
<br /></div>
<br />
<b><u>2033 and beyond:</u></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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WWE has several current superstars who could end up in the Hall of Fame when their careers are over. <b>Daniel Bryan</b>, <b>Becky Lynch</b>, <b>Charlotte</b>, <b>Sasha Banks</b>, <b>Bayley</b>, <b>Kofi Kingston</b>, <b>The New Day</b> (as a group), <b>The Usos</b>, <b>Asuka</b>, <b>Natalya</b>, <b>Ronda Rousey</b>, <b>A.J. Styles</b>, <b>The Miz</b>, <b>The Bella Twins</b>, <b>Dolph Ziggler</b>, <b>R-Truth</b>,<b> Charles Robinson </b>and <b>Michael Cole</b> have all pretty much had Hall of Fame careers already.<br />
<br />
They all qualify in enough ways to get in.<br />
<br />
Heck, <b>Jonathan Coachman</b> may even be a good inductee ... maybe.<br />
<br />
<b>Kevin Owens</b>, <b>Lio Rush</b>, <b>Naomi</b>, <b>Renee Young</b>, <b>Rusev</b>, <b>Ember Moon</b>, <b>Samoa Joe</b>, <b>Alexa Bliss</b>, <b>Finn Balor</b>, <b>Seth Rollins</b> and <b>Roman Reigns</b> could all go into the Hall of Fame by 2050 if they keep going and play their cards right.<br />
<br />
So WWE doesn't have to worry about future inductees ... at least for a while.<br />
<br />
As long as they keep making stars and giving them individual accomplishments (Asuka's undefeated streak, for example), they'll continue making legends in front of our very eyes.<br />
<br />
Final note: <b>Chris Benoit</b> should <b><i><u>NEVER</u></i></b> be inducted into the Hall of Fame. I understand that the Hall of Fame is about in-ring contributions and not personal lives, but the line has to be drawn somewhere and a double murder-suicide is a very clear line to be drawn.<br />
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Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-43737534055292584732019-12-23T09:45:00.000-05:002019-12-23T09:45:02.713-05:00Dumbo (2019) - reviewed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmrSHQ7a-OhnbpWB73UWrIDjonEUE7FK0nVc949aJlxErAwDeySyZU-C-3xzesa-cQRIKru_McZNAqDYQuVf3V25xBYYDw61YxoLbgeQPp4c6KugJAGRQN9raWmFxvN4g6pbsuwJskNC3t/s1600/Dumbo2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="384" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmrSHQ7a-OhnbpWB73UWrIDjonEUE7FK0nVc949aJlxErAwDeySyZU-C-3xzesa-cQRIKru_McZNAqDYQuVf3V25xBYYDw61YxoLbgeQPp4c6KugJAGRQN9raWmFxvN4g6pbsuwJskNC3t/s320/Dumbo2019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I'll give <i>Dumbo</i> credit. <br />
<br />
While <i>Aladdin</i> made unnecessary changes from the 90s version and <i>The Lion King</i> was pretty much an awkward, lesser CGI'd version from that 90s version, <i>Dumbo</i> told an original story. The problem is: that it just wasn't very good.<br />
<br />
To me, there's still no better live action movie than <i>Maleficent</i>. It reminded me of 'The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs.' It told the story from the opposite perspective.<br />
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<i>Dumbo</i> added several characters that weren't in Disney's classic animated version, but most of them weren't that exciting. The movie had some predictable greedy characters and some dull heroes.<br />
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<b>Michael Keaton</b>, <b>Danny Devito</b>, <b>Colin Farrell</b> and <b>Eva Green</b> weren't bad casting choices, but their characters weren't that exciting.<br />
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The children meant nothing to me. I had zero cares for them. They had way too much screen time. <br />
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The writers actually gave one of the kids a line in the movie where she said, 'Dad, that's Mrs. Dumbo!' as though it was some sort of revelation. <br />
<br />
This was after they just saw Dumbo and his mother holding reuniting, holding their trunks together. Well, no kidding that's 'Mrs. Dumbo.' The entire crowd of 50 people around you should have figured that out.<br />
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<i>The Jungle Book</i> provided some great CGI, but <i>Dumbo</i>, <i>Aladdin</i> and <i>The Lion King</i> all left a lot to be desired in terms of the CGI. I don't know if they are using different studios, but they need to replicate <i>The Jungle Book</i> if they are going to bring all of their animated characters to life.<br />
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I'm kind of worried about how <i>The Little Mermaid</i> will look after watching <i>Dumbo</i>, <i>Aladdin</i> and <i>The Lion King</i> this year.<br />
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I was impressed with how they incorporated the pink elephants into the live action version. I wasn't sure how they'd get some of the original content into a 2019 live action movie, but they did. Kudos on that.<br />
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I didn't have much of an emotional attachment to this Dumbo character though. The animated version was never at the top of my Disney movies list and this version didn't improve the character's standing.<br />
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The ending was fun, a plan the characters came up with, that had a purpose and that came together well. But you have to get through the first half of the movie to get there.<br />
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I appreciate the effort to tell a new, entertaining story. They tried to tell too many stories all at once and it wasn't enough. It wasn't cohesive. <br />
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Like I said in the beginning of this blog, the problem is: the story just wasn't that compelling.<br />
<br />
<i>Dumbo</i> was set in a circus, but there wasn't much magic in this movie.<br />
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<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/aladdin-2019-reviewed.html">Aladdin (2019) - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-11326817125247817332019-12-22T19:11:00.000-05:002019-12-22T19:12:06.805-05:00Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker - reviewed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was not looking forward to seeing this movie. I thought about skipping it until it was released for renting, but I caved in and saw it in the theater.<br />
<br />
I'm glad I did! <i>Rise of Skywalker</i> was a good movie. <b>J.J. Abrams</b> fixed a lot of what <b>Rian Johnson</b> messed up in <i>The Last Jedi</i>.<br />
<br />
I mentioned my disappointment on <i>The Last Jedi</i> <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2017/12/star-wars-last-jedi-reviewed.html">in my review two years ago</a>. Now, I wouldn't have disliked that movie so much had it not taken such an odd turn from <i>The Force Awakens</i>. Also, I would've had a different reaction if there was some indication that some of the unanswered questions I and a lot of other fans had were going to actually be answered.<br />
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That wasn't the case. There was no hint that there's more to come. I remember walking out of the theater when the movie was over and everyone was just silent. No applause. Nobody talking about how good it was or discussing their favorite part. The excitement was drained out of all 100+ people in that theater.<br />
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I gave <i>The Last Jedi</i> a 3-star rating. Possibly too generous at the time. But, I think that's still probably about right.<br />
<br />
Now, as the middle part of the trilogy (having seen all three movies ... and having just re-watched <i>The Last Jedi</i>), I would maybe add half a star to <i>The Last Jedi</i>, so 3 and a half stars.<br />
<br />
While they had to have had some of these plans in place given that <b>Carrie Fisher</b> is deceased and she already filmed some of these scenes, I don't think they had a clear plan in place. <b>Kathleen Kennedy</b> is probably more to blame for that than Rian Johnson, but Rian Johnson's pompous 'I do no wrong' attitude he seems to exude doesn't gain him any points with me.<br />
<br />
After watching the entire trilogy, I think they should've been titled:<br />
- The Force Awakens (great title, good movie)<br />
- The Rise of Skywalker -- instead of The Last Jedi (still not a great movie)<br />
- The Last Jedi -- instead of The Rise of Skywalker.<br />
<br />
Swapping the titles of the second and third movies in this trilogy helps explain the story a bit more in my opinion.<br />
<br />
Anyway, questions are answered! I'll elaborate more in the spoiler section below.<br />
<br />
First up, the <b><u>NON-SPOILER</u></b> notes:<br />
<br />
Abrams did a good job in helping to wrap this story and saga up. It didn't have the epic feel that an <i>Avengers: Endgame</i> did (the culmination of a multi-movie journey). <i>The Rise of Skywalker</i> did put a bow on some things though.<br />
<br />
True, some things are predictable. Some things are cheesy. There are a few new questions that weren't really answered. Overall, though, after the mess that <i>The Last Jedi</i> was, this movie was good.<br />
<br />
It's kind of like the X-Men movies, where they didn't really have a solid direction. It was more of a 'This movie did well? Great! Let's make another.' Marvel still leads the way (over DC, over Transformers, over Star Wars/Disney, over Sony, over Fox) when it comes to mapping out a game plan and telling compelling stories that make sense. All the space chases, blasts and visual effects in the world can't save a story that isn't thought through.<br />
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<b>C-3PO</b> had a bigger role in this movie. Finally, he was given a purpose. He seemed more like an after thought in the last couple of movies but I laughed at a lot of his lines here.<br />
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<b>Leia</b>'s character was handled well considering Fisher wasn't around to do reshoots. They had to use previously unreleased footage with her and they made it work quite well under the circumstances.<br />
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<b>Chewbacca</b> is still a great character.<br />
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<b>Rose</b> was fine in this movie. I liked the actress in the last one and I somewhat liked the character until she prevented Finn from saving the day. Thankfully, they didn't make that same mistake twice.<br />
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<b>Lando</b> returning was a welcome addition. there were a couple of additional characters that fit well for the parts of the story they were involved with. It was easy to establish a quick connection to them. I'm not sure what all Disney+ has in store for them, but those characters could easily be used in that area.<br />
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<b>BB-8</b> didn't get as much screen time and I was OK with that. They also introduced a new droid. His appearance was fine as well, but some respect needs to be given to <b>R2D2</b>. His inclusion felt lackluster. The OG save-the-day droid needs some love!<br />
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<b>Poe</b>, <b>Rey</b> and <b>Finn</b> aren't a bad replacement trio for <b>Han</b>, Leia and <b>Luke</b>. Those are big shoes to fill, but now that this new trio finally had a chance to work together as a team, it was entertaining. I wish we'd have seen more of that in the previous couple of movies.<br />
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<b>General Hux</b> was better this time around. He wasn't the Hitler rip-off (something that made me feel uncomfortable anyway) that he was in the last two movies.<br />
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<b>Darth Sidious</b> is still one of the best villains out there --- I'd say even better than Vader. He delivers every time!<br />
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There were some great fight scenes in <i>The Last Jedi</i> --- namely the Kylo / Luke battle on the salt planet and the showdown in Snoke's throne room. <i>The Rise of Skywalker</i> doesn't disappoint either. <br />
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They have a fun chase on a desert planet with a few Storm Troopers.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilFf_wb6NwE3ebJmZQNv2m47mPnnwq5kwOo8xQQcNFDJzhsQnkHQrJ15jPcrYK6CEcOXoa4ycfshz8Ti29CIgonboa7qxA3Nrv7z8LJT203a05tgxdVm3TVDOvcmAyLH6dY1SD_sA5z5m/s1600/Rise+of+Skywalker4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="432" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhilFf_wb6NwE3ebJmZQNv2m47mPnnwq5kwOo8xQQcNFDJzhsQnkHQrJ15jPcrYK6CEcOXoa4ycfshz8Ti29CIgonboa7qxA3Nrv7z8LJT203a05tgxdVm3TVDOvcmAyLH6dY1SD_sA5z5m/s320/Rise+of+Skywalker4.jpg" width="320" /></a> There's the scene you've probably seen on posters and in trailers --- where Kylo and Rey duel it out with their lightsabers on the wreckage of the Death Star while incredibly powerful waves crash upon them. <br />
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There's a fun warp speed / hyper speed scene with the Millennium Falcon. Rey has a cool training sequence as well.<br />
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Lastly, one of my favorite scenes, involved our heroes atop horses that were galloping towards battle on a destroyer.<br />
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I won't explain anything else about that scene or when it happens in the movie. I'll just leave it at that.<br />
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The Force versus The Dark Side --- that's what the entire saga has really been about, told with the personal Skywalker stories, so it was fitting that it wrapped up this way.<br />
<br />
A unique element that was brought to this movie was the ability to fight each other despite being in two different places. The link Kylo and Rey had in The Last Jedi is increased. They battle each other while being in two different places --- because of their connection I guess. It's interesting. I don't know that it follows what we've seen before (other than Luke doing this in The Last Jedi) but it's interesting and creative anyway.<br />
<br />
My problem with the entire trilogy is that it's been very emo. Kylo and Rey don't come off as endearing characters who are trying to overcome their personal struggle -- at least not always. Instead of being a romantic link of some kind or balances to The Force, they come off as a little too into their emotions. <br />
<br />
I laugh out loud to the people that claim Kylo is a better villain than Vader. Kylo is much better than Anakin from Episodes I-III, but he doesn't even touch the fully-turned Dark Side Vader.<br />
<br />
When you break it all down, though, Star Wars isn't one cohesive 9-movie unit. It's bits and pieces of awesomeness that are sewn together through sometimes bad acting, sometimes bad writing, sometimes annoying characters and sometimes pointless missions.<br />
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<i>The Rise of Skywalker</i> finishes up what it can and leaves a satisfying conclusion to what's been a bumpy ride at times. It's fun, there are some creative fight scenes and it's not as all over the place as <i>The Last Jedi</i> was.<br />
<br />
You can't ask for much more given the road traveled to get here.<br />
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Oh -- and the final scene was very fitting. Very well done.<br />
<br />
If Star Wars continues on with some new stories (with these characters or others), please, for the love of God, get a writer's room and map it out! Gone are the days of the disjointed X-Men movies or the contractual disputes that prevent Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill from continuing on in their roles as Batman / Superman. Marvel is kicking your butt when it comes to foreshadowing and storytelling.<br />
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They'll continue to do so if you don't even give them some competition.<br />
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<b><u>SPOILER section</u> </b>below (scroll down a little).<br />
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..... ok, here we go:<br />
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<ul>
<li>The Kylo / Han scene was nice. There was some repetition in the dialogue, which I appreciated. For a moment, I thought he was going to turn the lightsaber on the memory of his dead father.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The yellow lightsaber at the end was cool. I'm not entirely sure where it came from. But it's a new take on a lightsaber and that was fun.</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeymmoMSzEoxOFYt6c6UBqKRJP23aJM7V3UPQ0cSluVIeCv1GACSRl-OWcyBtZq8gf8jl4-PFOd7IuLZLos-ciXjfd3XMN8A8wwwZ_A6DumYjPACtyVHJXawn_4rq-aRHSlfqhyo1pb_1/s1600/Rise+of+Skywalker9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1167" data-original-width="1600" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeymmoMSzEoxOFYt6c6UBqKRJP23aJM7V3UPQ0cSluVIeCv1GACSRl-OWcyBtZq8gf8jl4-PFOd7IuLZLos-ciXjfd3XMN8A8wwwZ_A6DumYjPACtyVHJXawn_4rq-aRHSlfqhyo1pb_1/s320/Rise+of+Skywalker9.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>Rey being Palpatine's granddaughter was fine. It wasn't exactly what I'd have probably chosen if given free reign to craft a story but it's better than her parents being 'nobody.'</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Is it bad that I'm kind of glad to be rid of Kylo? He was too emotional and back-and-forth for me to really connect to.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>There was a little too much life giving / Force giving in this movie. Rey gives to the sand worm thing. She gives to Kylo. Kylo gives back to her. Had seeds been planted in previous movies, that'd be one thing. But 3 times in one movie? I get that this wasn't mapped out very well to begin with, but it was a bit much.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The planet killing weapons attached directly to the destroyers were a cool progression.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The visuals for the way the planet exploded could've been much better</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Darth Sidious' lair was really cool with all the lightning and electricity</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The new group with the horses (with tusks on their gear) were really cool. It was Native American-esque and was something we haven't really seen in a Star Wars movie before.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>I liked the voices that gave Rey the strength to rise up, but it would've been cool to see some Force ghosts there --- Leia, Luke, Yoda, Qui-Gon, Obi-Wan, Mace Windu, etc. It probably would've taken away from the Luke / Leia Force Ghosts in the final scene, but I think they could've come up with a cool way to make those two scenes different.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Questions that are finally answered:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Who the Hell was Supreme Leader Snoke? That is answered. Darth Sidious created him. I'll accept that answer.</li>
<li>How did Darth Sidious return from the dead? He's a Sith Lord. Ok. I'll accept that, too.</li>
<li>Who are Rey's parents? No, they aren't 'nobody.' They were Palpatine's daughter/son and the in-law.</li>
<li>Who would Rey have ended up with (Finn or Kylo)? - based on the kiss, I guess Kylo, but I prefer to think it'd have been Finn</li>
<li>Where did Leia get her Jedi powers? - she was finally shown training and using a lightsaber, so that whole coming back to life in space scene from <i>The Last Jedi</i> is a little more acceptable (not not much)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<b>New questions that this movie left unanswered:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Did Palpatine really want Rey dead? - I'm still not sure</li>
<li>What was Finn going to say to Rey? - Apparently he was going to reveal that he's 'Force sensitive,' but I'll pretend that silly statement wasn't going to happen and that he was going to tell her 'I love you.'</li>
<li>Where did all those Sith come from? Why didn't they at least try to help Palpatine while he was doing battle? - I guess I'll just accept that they weren't fully 'risen' yet and that they were trying to come back from the dead too?</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Not too bad, overall. Not too bad, J.J.</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2017/12/star-wars-last-jedi-reviewed.html">Star Wars: The Last Jedi - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2016/12/star-wars-rogue-one-reviewed.html">Justice League - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/aladdin-2019-reviewed.html">Aladdin - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-81862645082436808402019-12-22T10:24:00.000-05:002019-12-22T10:24:05.258-05:00The Lion King (2019) - reviewed.I'm torn on the Disney live action movies. There are a couple (<i>Maleficent</i>, <i>The Jungle Book</i>) that have been surprisingly good. Some (<i>Cinderella</i>, <i>Beauty & The Beast</i>) that have been just OK. Then there are some (<i>Aladdin</i>, <i>Maleficent 2</i>) that haven't been that impressive at all.<br />
<br />
<i>The Lion King</i> falls into the 'OK' category.<br />
<br />
While those in charge of this movie didn't make the same mistakes that <i>Aladdin</i> did in deviating much from the original script, they had mistakes of their own.<br />
<br />
If you're not telling a new story (like in <i>Maleficent</i> or <i>Dumbo</i>), then why exactly are you making the movie?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2v2zxDMTRMSDsxcOf2SbxgDRmW0Whz0I6lexeVkQQEQy1-t225iqRukl5Zmp2DCbcDkixCirhgm4paAuEicZTh_441HwQD6MhiKYnO7iN1Lm0nEHbobn_7n2fB-axi9lJmm5tcKM6ilb/s1600/LionKing2019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2v2zxDMTRMSDsxcOf2SbxgDRmW0Whz0I6lexeVkQQEQy1-t225iqRukl5Zmp2DCbcDkixCirhgm4paAuEicZTh_441HwQD6MhiKYnO7iN1Lm0nEHbobn_7n2fB-axi9lJmm5tcKM6ilb/s320/LionKing2019.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>If I want to watch <i>The Lion King</i>, then wouldn't I just watch the 90's version? What's the point? So that I can see overdone CGI instead of colorful animation? Sure, I guess it has the 3-D aspect going for it, but I couldn't care less about that.<br />
<br />
Disney is really in a no win situation. They can make a live action version of the same 90s classics we love (again, what's the point?) or they can change the 90s classics we love (and be met with resistance from fans).<br />
<br />
They're making money, but that's more due to the fact that they are Disney (it's a well-oiled marketing and money-making machine) than producing quality content.<br />
<br />
Alright, onto the movie.<br />
<br />
A lot of people claimed that they had an issue seeing the CGI animals speak. I didn't have an issue with that. It didn't seem off-putting to me for the most part.<br />
<br />
My biggest issue is that, just like with Disney's <i>Christopher Robin</i>, the CGI really has a negative impact on the color.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fHrTK2GsYH41_eF2PK2LdYZMv9CVTcgKSxYr9FPQPBE-2pkL9rNnUbkAtKl7QGPzhvo_WV9XVJsYLAigLQXbeA-catkLOaxSYJ1LovIX7RflBgB6hHKpnK2FtM_DW8UWvPjr-iQkb87N/s1600/LionKingZazu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="737" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-fHrTK2GsYH41_eF2PK2LdYZMv9CVTcgKSxYr9FPQPBE-2pkL9rNnUbkAtKl7QGPzhvo_WV9XVJsYLAigLQXbeA-catkLOaxSYJ1LovIX7RflBgB6hHKpnK2FtM_DW8UWvPjr-iQkb87N/s320/LionKingZazu.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Zazu was a colorful blue Dodo bird in the animated version. But he's bland in this version --- both in color and voice, actually. John Oliver was alright, but not as good as the 90s version.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNHrHGuCNClkoESl_2h9bDy8gko2HtYAws-h0Ihy6h-EcANDYSCNUpWlfvk8I5Spw9cmUoPl9OX-6ZxT2fnS1s57WdVYU7Ga7BoCbec6hXSavMlZpG7nud3zREUJwxaA6bBFVV1oWnx73/s1600/LionKingScar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="353" data-original-width="737" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZNHrHGuCNClkoESl_2h9bDy8gko2HtYAws-h0Ihy6h-EcANDYSCNUpWlfvk8I5Spw9cmUoPl9OX-6ZxT2fnS1s57WdVYU7Ga7BoCbec6hXSavMlZpG7nud3zREUJwxaA6bBFVV1oWnx73/s320/LionKingScar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Scar wasn't as good as the movie version either. The color wasn't as vibrant. His black mane from the animated version wasn't probably realistic, but it sure made him stand out. Chiwetel Ejiofor's vocal performance was OK, but nothing compared to the classic version. Nothing at all compared to that version.<br />
<br />
The rest of the voice actors were fine. I didn't take issue with any of their performances.<br />
<br />
Actually, Seth Rogan was a great choice for Pumba!<br />
<br />
While I'm glad they followed the classic, I kept thinking to myself, 'I should really watch the animated version again.'<br />
<br />
I could've done without some of the updated lines of dialogue.<br />
<br />
'Let's do this' was a line Simba used before going off to make the rounds with his father. It seemed pointless -- as though it was just for the purpose of updating the movie.<br />
<br />
Some of the updated lines of dialogue actually made me feel sorry for Scar. <br />
<br />
At one point, Simba says something along the lines of, 'My dad says when I'm king, I'll give you orders. How weird is that?'<br />
<br />
Nothing like being a spoiled, little brat. The original dialogue goes like this:<br />
<br />
Simba: Hey Uncle Scar, guess what? <br />
Scar: I despise guessing games<br />
Simba: I'm going to be king of pride rock<br />
Scar: Oh goodie ...<br />
Simba: My dad just showed me the whole kingdom and I'm going to rule it all (chuckles)<br />
Scar: Yes, well, forgive me for not leaping for joy. Bad back and all<br />
Simba: Hey Uncle Scar, when I'm king, what will that make you?<br />
Scar: A monkey's uncle<br />
Simba: (laughs) You're so weird.<br />
Scar: You have no idea<br />
<br />
Now, I admit, the part where he says he's going to rule it all --- that's a little brat-like as well. But Simba genuinely wants to know what Scar is when Simba is king. There's no curiosity in the new line of dialogue where kid Simba comes to visit Scar just to brag about being his future ruler.<br />
<br />
Another updated bit of dialogue that comes off as juvenile is the scene where Simba confronts Scar at Pride Rock.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQtc6TLB3Pc-Y6bzGfuBjk1eCi0AQ1I4rBOFJE-sFRSp49GOLq5am2r0y8lZY-VfIbl0Oyzrxzs8aiS9uoTe_z3eJqg5Z8XZFxX3vAZCeSbSkrzQy4XAPL-IebD25TLQioir4YGE_tLDV/s1600/11+MovieRatingLionKing.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQtc6TLB3Pc-Y6bzGfuBjk1eCi0AQ1I4rBOFJE-sFRSp49GOLq5am2r0y8lZY-VfIbl0Oyzrxzs8aiS9uoTe_z3eJqg5Z8XZFxX3vAZCeSbSkrzQy4XAPL-IebD25TLQioir4YGE_tLDV/s400/11+MovieRatingLionKing.png" width="226" /></a>The lioness' come to Simba's aid and <a href="https://youtu.be/nmDRYViyHvw?t=67">Nala says</a>, "Simba is the rightful king (just like in the animated version)," but then adds "If you want to get to him, you have to go through us!"<br />
<br />
Why add that? We've heard that line (or some version of it) in so many movies. Why add something so lame -- just for the sake of updating it? The way it was done <a href="https://youtu.be/KSti-2Z_XoY?t=108">in the animated version</a> trumps the 2019 live action sequence.<br />
<br />
Overall, the 2019 version of <i>The Lion King</i> paid a lot of homage to the original by not going too far from the original movie, but it made me want to watch the original (and better version) instead of the movie I was watching.<br />
<br />
I'm assuming that wasn't the intended point of making this movie.<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/12/aladdin-2019-reviewed.html">Aladdin - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
<br />
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<br />
Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-60336396758852548392019-12-21T19:02:00.002-05:002019-12-21T19:04:00.903-05:00Aladdin (2019) - reviewed.Where to start with this one, huh?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2W-TOSXuzZenW7xa6u9me5RH1q4r60nPKnfTu8tPK2BB4t97R_uob6uSxPpyR4H5TisDyEWnTuYojxB2816Jsj0wjQjROMT3ex-t2x0PON2Yjw9oLSlCllZIZTSgdB-rTbog1mY3GR_X/s1600/AladdinEW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1011" data-original-width="758" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo2W-TOSXuzZenW7xa6u9me5RH1q4r60nPKnfTu8tPK2BB4t97R_uob6uSxPpyR4H5TisDyEWnTuYojxB2816Jsj0wjQjROMT3ex-t2x0PON2Yjw9oLSlCllZIZTSgdB-rTbog1mY3GR_X/s320/AladdinEW.jpg" width="240" /></a>When I heard that <b>Will Smith</b> was cast as <b>Genie</b>, I was actually pretty happy about it. He is close enough to Robin Williams in the ability to deliver an over-the-top performance but he's not a complete replica. He's got his own style.<br />
<br />
Then I saw the horrible <i>Entertainment Weekly</i> cover with no blue makeup and I, like many others, was not irritated that they weren't making him blue.<br />
<br />
Then I saw the horrible makeup job with the blue paint and I thought, 'Maybe he shouldn't be blue.'<br />
<br />
Besides Genie and his lack of blue / poorly done blue makeup, the costumes looked like cheaply made (but still overpriced) Halloween costumes you'd find at The Disney Store.<br />
<br />
Lastly, the casting is way off here. <b>Mena Massoud</b> looks like <b>Aladdin</b>, but he doesn't have half the style or swagger that the animated version does. <b>Marwan Kenzari</b> neither looks like <b>Jafar</b> or has his demeanor.<br />
<br />
Oh --- and the animated version of <b>Abu</b> > the crappy CGI version of Abu.<br />
<br />
Those were my issues after seeing the first full trailer --- long before the movie came out -- so this movie had an uphill climb to win me over.<br />
<br />
I can't say that it really did. The movie was as I expected.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6bzXl_ws6yH8cXyTo7AbbDBPnGWa_nHuFwB44oiUbEIgJ-mYxm8Gj4pgOQvX1zH-MeFMkwh5xxArD6n3eX5WTKWAL6a73JYVUKFEOIpEUo3CxXHbj9kgoposLE8WdPh2ApmkuW84JGOH/s1600/AladdinGenie.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl6bzXl_ws6yH8cXyTo7AbbDBPnGWa_nHuFwB44oiUbEIgJ-mYxm8Gj4pgOQvX1zH-MeFMkwh5xxArD6n3eX5WTKWAL6a73JYVUKFEOIpEUo3CxXHbj9kgoposLE8WdPh2ApmkuW84JGOH/s320/AladdinGenie.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Will Smith did well in the Genie role. He really did, despite the bad blue CGI. He stole the show here. <br />
<br />
Robin Williams made <i>Aladdin</i> a really good movie, but Aladdin, Iago, Jasmine, Jafar and the non-speaking magic carpet all had more personality and value than this new cast did.<br />
<br />
Most of the performances were wooden. It was disappointing to sit through, wishing I was watching the original version instead.<br />
<br />
Some of the musical numbers were good. I'll say that.<br />
<br />
The flying carpet looked pretty cool in CGI form -- much better than Abu or Iago.<br />
<br />
Outside of those few things, I don't have much positive to say.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_szoXdzuMNJMikhSzNo2sxcsFi9GLjLiZwS4drSOlbAUhIAT2M753ob9Wc2w-DatF5guJF5Bv1D1cAbJsiDApgaVZpq1ggGhMbFAzShw3opxOXiXBDP0h1__vequExmMejv_zXu5MO-c/s1600/LionKing2019JameelaJamil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="493" data-original-width="650" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_szoXdzuMNJMikhSzNo2sxcsFi9GLjLiZwS4drSOlbAUhIAT2M753ob9Wc2w-DatF5guJF5Bv1D1cAbJsiDApgaVZpq1ggGhMbFAzShw3opxOXiXBDP0h1__vequExmMejv_zXu5MO-c/s320/LionKing2019JameelaJamil.jpg" width="320" /></a><b>Naomi Scott</b>'s performance as <b>Princess Jasmine</b> made the character even more annoying than the original Jasmine. Scott doesn't look Jasmine at all.<br />
<br />
Personally, Jameela Jamil would've been my choice to play Jasmine. She looks like her and seems like she'd deliver a good performance as well.<br />
<br />
Bad casting choices aside, the story wasn't very compelling. They changed some things but they were all off the mark.<br />
<br />
Jasmine, as a strong 2019 woman, isn't rescued. She saves herself. Congrats to you, but it didn't make for a good story.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcLzOPLrNXnfNThdbFXQz1T1-hkNku0Rd9AyISqV9BEwU5d70Yu3Y41ZPNoSxDjTR9w-F9aAGR91rE7XXjW6WNEkpYrHDberggl1iBIVzKOijREeXBbqJRJFyYWSO1sxAUf2-PYz3gvtL/s1600/AladdinDalia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="1271" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcLzOPLrNXnfNThdbFXQz1T1-hkNku0Rd9AyISqV9BEwU5d70Yu3Y41ZPNoSxDjTR9w-F9aAGR91rE7XXjW6WNEkpYrHDberggl1iBIVzKOijREeXBbqJRJFyYWSO1sxAUf2-PYz3gvtL/s320/AladdinDalia.jpg" width="320" /></a>I'm fine with changes so long as they are done right, resulting in improvements. Instead, all the changes made in this movie made it a far inferior product than the animated version.<br />
<br />
For example, they added <b>Dalia</b> as a servant / confidant for Jasmine and a love interest for Genie. Her role didn't add anything genuine, comedic or entertaining to the movie.<br />
<br />
There's an extra dance / musical sequence added, but it lacks any of the magic the other (original) performances had.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvVuAj_Mwx9fjT24gJpvvk2IdHv7lLApl660HzTmTv6HwbTJKNkG0eDE-9n35WagauY7Yf44DEwnsjS76xR6hZoqWTAMD73rDLrBheTQQdPrp65cpkKVj-2D1MK3bCpbuSJc9FNbnZ9SM/s1600/17+MovieRatingAladdin.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvVuAj_Mwx9fjT24gJpvvk2IdHv7lLApl660HzTmTv6HwbTJKNkG0eDE-9n35WagauY7Yf44DEwnsjS76xR6hZoqWTAMD73rDLrBheTQQdPrp65cpkKVj-2D1MK3bCpbuSJc9FNbnZ9SM/s400/17+MovieRatingAladdin.png" width="226" /></a>Despite making box office bank, this movie is not worth your time if you're particularly enjoyed the original movie. <br />
<br />
I guess you could look at it as though it were an adaptation from a book --- making changes to the original content rather than doing a live action version of the same content. <br />
<br />
Then again, that doesn't do much for me because I generally prefer the books to the movies when changes are made.<br />
<br />
Two and a half stars may be a little harsh. <br />
<br />
I'd probably give it three or three and a half if I weren't comparing it to the original, but that's the box Disney put itself into with these live action movies: it has to be better than the original because people will be comparing these movies to the animated versions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
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<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-6910018874222237442019-08-25T09:05:00.002-04:002019-08-25T09:05:10.399-04:00A solo Sony Spider-Man might be a good direction<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UFdmQhdtCNcpCDPic-pBWbXF_TEzKva2vPqJaQ8hbYd-yb6nWieSzs_k7FFVkFVMOC_3_5tSynJWnPORvYP4k0DvT9hY2GsMKDUBZn5VI2103F427q01Ch4uay2oPmfslVY7IsQ5h0SQ/s1600/blog+spidey3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="416" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UFdmQhdtCNcpCDPic-pBWbXF_TEzKva2vPqJaQ8hbYd-yb6nWieSzs_k7FFVkFVMOC_3_5tSynJWnPORvYP4k0DvT9hY2GsMKDUBZn5VI2103F427q01Ch4uay2oPmfslVY7IsQ5h0SQ/s320/blog+spidey3.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
Everyone is talking about the Disney (Marvel) / Sony feud right now.<br />
<br />
It's a complicated situation, especially since we don't really know what the tone of all the discussions is like. There are some conflicting reports.<br />
<br />
Based on what I've seen, Sony and Disney made a deal. Spider-Man was successful in the MCU, so Disney wanted to renegotiate so that they had better terms in the deal.<br />
<br />
I don't blame Sony for saying 'Hold up' because legally they've been doing everything right.<br />
<br />
But the MCU is where all the action is, so of course fans want Spider-Man there.<br />
<br />
That being said, I think now may be the best time for Spidey to go solo with Sony. Both of Spider-Man's movies so far benefitted from having Nick Fury, Happy Hogan and Iron Man (or at least references to him in the second movie). Spider-Man got a huge rub from Fury and Iron Man.<br />
<br />
It's time to take that and move on and do his own thing.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>The crowded, crossover-filled MCU:</b><br />
<br />
It's honestly kind of irritating that every single Disney / Marvel movie these days has to feature a whole host of other MCU characters. It's not just Thor anymore. It's Thor featuring Hulk. Or Dr. Strange featuring Scarlet Witch. Or Guardians of the Galaxy + Thor. Or <i>Captain America 3</i>, starring The Avengers.<br />
<br />
What Marvel and Disney did so well in the initial MCU films was build characters. Avengers is where the fun came in. They built the characters in the solo films and then the Avengers movies is where they got to interact with each other. It was a great formula.<br />
<br />
It was a lot of fun to see them all interact with each other in a way that you can't see anywhere else. It's not as though we ever get to see James Bond interact with Ethan Hunt. Marvel gives us Hulk and Iron Man (plus dozens of other characters) on the same screen at the same time.<br />
<br />
Ever since <i>Captain America 3</i>, however, it seems like you have a hard time getting a solo superhero movie. That's a shame because as much fun as the interactions are, it also doesn't mean as much when you see them in every movie.<br />
<br />
I understand the mindset on the team-ups and the interactions. They are profitable.<br />
<br />
Disney's Marvel is moving onto a new phase without Captain America or Iron Man or Black Widow so I imagine the team-ups may continue because those were established names that drew at the box office and Dr. Strange, Captain Marvel and Black Panther aren't as established.<br />
<br />
I don't think people (outside of hardcore comic book fans) are excited for the Eternals or Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. That's why they need a heavyweight like Thor and a Black Widow prequel.<br />
<br />
This may change. People may fall in love with the new set of characters we'll be presented with. Ant-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy were gambles because they weren't the more well-known characters and both have done very well in the MCU and in their own films.<br />
<br />
But the MCU may have peaked with <i>Avengers: Endgame</i>. Once you've established great characters and then teamed them up in an epic conclusion to a 22-movie build, it's hard to top. It'll be especially hard if they don't focus on these characters solo before throwing them into cameos and crossovers.<br />
<br />
In all fairness, it's also not as though there's an endless amount of time to create these movies with fun interactions. Actors have different projects, contract disputes happen, actors age, actors get pregnant and actors get tired of playing the same characters. So you have to strike while the iron is hot. Still, a little more focus on the individual characters first (before team-ups and crossovers and cameos) is my preferred method of building to something meaningful.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHi96268IhnqQhl_Dgfnt5d7QDgPBFNP1vfCkKgToy8_716tDlqKM19Q037Dm5DG5zWnJE4nusKtjOxOzSKB2fVqUXeClgY4GU1Tm7Z8q7SU__nbO4SBhXsT-RCiQM0gDzXD-1Or-n5S-/s1600/blog+spidey2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="523" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHi96268IhnqQhl_Dgfnt5d7QDgPBFNP1vfCkKgToy8_716tDlqKM19Q037Dm5DG5zWnJE4nusKtjOxOzSKB2fVqUXeClgY4GU1Tm7Z8q7SU__nbO4SBhXsT-RCiQM0gDzXD-1Or-n5S-/s320/blog+spidey2.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
<b>A Sony Spider-Man:</b><br />
<br />
Back to Spider-Man, though. How are Sony Spider-Man movies a good thing? Because Spider-Man will be the focus of his movies. It won't be Iron Man Jr. in a Spider-Man costume. It won't be Nick Fury's lackey. It'll be Spider-Man.<br />
<br />
He's got a whole host of villains he could interact with, too. I'm looking forward to Tom Hardy's Venom and Tom Holland's Spider-Man coming face-to-face at some point.<br />
<br />
Sure, we had Venom and Spider-Man face off once before in <i>Spider-Man 3</i>, but that was so long ago and there's much more that could be done with these two Toms.<br />
<br />
Now, if they build it right, their interaction will be a big crossover movie itself. That's good strategy right there. Build them up separately and then pair them together for a blockbuster.<br />
<br />
That was Marvel and Disney's very first formula with phase one and it worked like a charm. DC tried to do it with <i>Justice League</i>, but were too quick to jump on that ship. Wonder Woman and Superman were the only two with solo movies before that movie.<br />
<br />
They should've waited until Aquaman and The Flash had solo movies before doing the big <i>Justice League</i> team-up. It didn't mean nearly as much to see them all together because Justice League was introducing us to a lot of those characters for the first time.<br />
<br />
I'm excited to see what a solo Spider-Man can do in Sony's realm instead of trying to outrun an Iron Man shadow in the MCU.<br />
<br />
Sure, the Fury and Iron Man relationships helped Spider-Man's character and helped the movie perform at the box office, but Spider-Man is ready to graduate from the MCU and soar with his own webbing.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nqwk9zFC38sDO8pwcQTEUk6McBcwwyb0gmemg1LLtG82y5lEfUaKbf3LE-vi2W-TJoXe_BVRzq7F9iujCp7QsKZA8mSVB_iGw-dw_YELcscxsFu8bnbz9cxT0Apj-C1_u19lL3103aPy/s1600/blog+spidey1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="433" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4nqwk9zFC38sDO8pwcQTEUk6McBcwwyb0gmemg1LLtG82y5lEfUaKbf3LE-vi2W-TJoXe_BVRzq7F9iujCp7QsKZA8mSVB_iGw-dw_YELcscxsFu8bnbz9cxT0Apj-C1_u19lL3103aPy/s320/blog+spidey1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>A deal could still (and will likely) be reached:</b><br />
<br />
Let's not forget that a deal could still be reached. Regardless of whether a deal is reached, I want more of a focus on Spider-Man going forward.<br />
<br />
No more Skrulls. No more Happy Hogan. Just Spider-Man and his foes, his family and his friends.<br />
<br />
If a deal is reached, rumors are it could include Venom. So we'll see what happens there.<br />
<br />
In the end it may be a win-win for everyone.<br />
<br />
Sure, it may take a while before everything is finalized and sorted out, but the result could be good for everyone. Let's say a deal isn't reached right away. There's still potential that a deal could be reached to allow Spider-Man to appear in another big Avengers movie, but for him to primarily remain solo with Sony. That could work, too.<br />
<br />
One thing is for certain: Spider-Man has to perform after all this media attention. Nobody can argue that fans don't care about Spider-Man, that's for sure. But it has to translate at the box office.<br />
<br />
After being featured in the MCU, I have a feeling Tom Holland's Spider-Man will be fine on his own.Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-80205956119443105032019-07-06T20:26:00.005-04:002019-07-06T20:26:50.150-04:00X-Men: Dark Phoenix - reviewed.I like to stay pretty out of the loop these days when it comes to superhero movies.<br />
<br />
I don't want to know who is playing what characters will be in the movie or who is expected to live and die or who makes a cameo.<br />
<br />
The superhero movies have improved so much that I have enough faith it will be good without having to go to the spoilers.<br />
<br />
I went into Dark Phoenix the same way. I knew it wasn't going to be a gigantic blockbuster, based on the preview I'd seen, but I was hoping for the best.<br />
<br />
Let me say right out: this movie was awful! It's the only movie I can remember seeing in the theater where I sat there and thought 'Is this movie over yet??'<br />
<br />
It was that bad.<br />
<br />
I'm not even sure where to start. I was excited about seeing the Dark Phoenix saga told well -- even if it was crammed into one movie.<br />
<br />
Instead, we got a strange half-reboot of <i>X3</i> (because that worked so well the first time) and poor man's <i>Captain Marvel</i>.<br />
<br />
I've read some reports about the movie being changed due to similarities to Captain Marvel (leaving the Dark Phoenix script worse for wear), but I don't think it would've mattered. That's not what the Dark Phoenix saga is about. It's not Captain Marvel. So if it was basically Captain Marvel before the script changes, then they still weren't on the right track.<br />
<br />
I noticed some changes in filming. It seemed like they cut the budget because Storm's lightning looked like crap and the train scene at the end of the movie had a lot of blatantly obvious green screen aspects to it.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNRoiXZkkGEmQz-cgpxefs4H1-08hs0GbgsDcczzkzHGCJotl07APPDzVghhngd5N9c3GzMXGwn8pIjczmpZdIsFqwSjg0fxt6QmMD6DWV2pabSS0puNHndtSwn6Eg-9cAaEomgW9yW58q/s1600/blog+mystique+makeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="838" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNRoiXZkkGEmQz-cgpxefs4H1-08hs0GbgsDcczzkzHGCJotl07APPDzVghhngd5N9c3GzMXGwn8pIjczmpZdIsFqwSjg0fxt6QmMD6DWV2pabSS0puNHndtSwn6Eg-9cAaEomgW9yW58q/s320/blog+mystique+makeup.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
They must've cut back on the makeup budget as well. Mystique's blue tint was not up to part. Beast looked more cartoonish than ever -- and not in a good one.<br />
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I know it's a movie called 'Dark Phoenix' but once again it was too much Jean Grey in this movie. It was too similar to X3, where every other character took a back seat.<br />
<br />
Jean Grey and Mystique didn't have a relationship that built movie upon movie so when the big, dramatic scene occurred with the two of them (I won't spoil <i>exactly</i> what happened ... in case anyone wants to watch this train wreck), it felt antic-climactic.<br />
<br />
I think Jennifer Lawrence must have known that this movie wasn't as good as the others because she mailed in the performance here.<br />
<br />
The fight scene in New York City was lackluster.<br />
<br />
Magneto (Michael Fassbender) and Xavier (James McAvoy) delivered when it comes to acting, but the writing didn't leave them much to work with. Beast (Nicholas Hoult) was just kind of there.<br />
<br />
Storm looked awesome, but she didn't even have a line (that I can remember anyway). That character needs a solo movie now that X-Men are part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.<br />
<br />
I'd love to see them introduce maybe a solo Storm, solo Wolverine and solo Professor X / Magneto movies before they all unite. Then, when they all team up, it'd be like the first Avengers movie --- seeing these awesome characters together for the first time on the big screen.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIbtqaEuExaZSbLJo1LdbeaVvpEXNrQT74T1JlFj9RjBVXOOSTVFtSYXT8fuag6toRoKIwFSJJ2dVBO3JnwfA1ZlH7wBNF3C8g2b1T8P9ftHA0Z_cFdD61cyKQyUK6ZnI5g-w3F06rTRi/s1600/blog+dark+phoenix3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="842" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRIbtqaEuExaZSbLJo1LdbeaVvpEXNrQT74T1JlFj9RjBVXOOSTVFtSYXT8fuag6toRoKIwFSJJ2dVBO3JnwfA1ZlH7wBNF3C8g2b1T8P9ftHA0Z_cFdD61cyKQyUK6ZnI5g-w3F06rTRi/s320/blog+dark+phoenix3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
But enough about the potential that lies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Back to this dud.<br />
<br />
Nightcrawler would've been cool but his makeup wasn't as good as in the past either. Speaking of makeup and special effects, how about Jean Grey? Her skin was basically crackling throughout the entire movie --- as though the Phoenix was going to burst out of her.<br />
<br />
Believe it or not, the Phoenix was never really explained throughout the entire movie. Where did it come from? What purpose does it serve? Why did it choose Jean? Those are really basic questions, but none of them were answered.<br />
<br />
That kind of thing leaves a moviegoer exiting the theater feeling unhappy instead of raving about how good the movie was.<br />
<br />
Oh, and Jessica Chastain's character? Completely pointless. Completely! Shouldn't have even been in the movie in the first place. There wasn't much of a backstory there either, but I didn't care because I just wanted that character to disappear.<br />
<br />
I left the theater and immediately logged onto Twitter, thinking there had to be someone out there who thought this movie was the snore fest that I thought it was. Sure enough, tweet after tweet about the disappointing end of the X-Men movie franchise under 20th Century Fox's umbrella.<br />
<br />
There was no audience applause in this movie either. Unlike the last superhero movie I saw (Avengers: Endgame), where there were several moments of laughter and applause, this movie was almost like sitting in church or at a funeral.<br />
<br />
I felt guilty every time I rustled through my popcorn bag because, other than the movie itself playing, there was silence throughout the theater.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1rRyXJpamZl_IU9ytDnvlBLwl9vL4x2eGGKyv9aAk3nvIRlbeqnIRpQyt9Ne5arNvM94SnQtgmuZhGVMHZoJKV4YYkOgFJF966TitnbL0dwYmL1uZPsu-7eH3WCdPZfSGubegIAytxo1/s1600/MovieRatingDarkPhoenix.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje1rRyXJpamZl_IU9ytDnvlBLwl9vL4x2eGGKyv9aAk3nvIRlbeqnIRpQyt9Ne5arNvM94SnQtgmuZhGVMHZoJKV4YYkOgFJF966TitnbL0dwYmL1uZPsu-7eH3WCdPZfSGubegIAytxo1/s400/MovieRatingDarkPhoenix.png" width="226" /></a><br />
I liked the actors and the concept of a Dark Phoenix movie, but it was done all wrong here. The actors didn't have enough good material to work with, the plot was awful and the execution of computer graphics and makeup was sad to see.<br />
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Worst superhero movie of the year so far. If you are going to watch it because you're a huge fan of X-Men and superhero movies (like me), save your money and wait for the Redbox.<br />
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I'd like to say that my 2-star rating was an exaggeration, but it feels fair to me.<br />
<br />
The only thing I can say is that maybe it seemed worse than it was because Avengers: Endgame was so good. <br />
<br />
In 2000, this may have been a fun movie. But not in 2019. <br />
<br />
That's the price you pay when you put out a movie in the era of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Step up to the plate and hit a home run or have yourself a seat.<br />
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<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/05/avengers-endgame-reviewed-spoiler-free.html">Avengers: Endgame - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/bumblebee-reviewed.html">Bumblebee - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
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<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-90475097687668990432019-05-07T22:54:00.000-04:002019-07-06T20:27:59.618-04:00Avengers: Endgame - reviewed. (the spoiler-free version)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiicovmgd6D8l9ut1UUdQtJrkomPyV90dDU9L4GI1fGo-8W1NdHFiHOGuVAeMF5zELtNedzFReomwzbvXCfyrNqhsnvR-4LnxkmuILfb6kfNm9h3FGbH3S4J7KamymZinMzRBYkq0WY0KEK/s1600/blog+Bannerendgame.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="1300" height="82" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiicovmgd6D8l9ut1UUdQtJrkomPyV90dDU9L4GI1fGo-8W1NdHFiHOGuVAeMF5zELtNedzFReomwzbvXCfyrNqhsnvR-4LnxkmuILfb6kfNm9h3FGbH3S4J7KamymZinMzRBYkq0WY0KEK/s400/blog+Bannerendgame.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Wow! Wow!! On so many levels.<br />
<br />
Unlike some <i>Star Wars</i> movies, unlike <i>The Hobbit</i> or <i>Lord of the Rings</i>, <i>Avengers: Endgame</i> is not disappointing in any way. There are maybe two very minor things I could pick at, but that's it. Maybe two minor things in an entire 3 hour movie.<br />
<br />
Without giving spoilers, the most important thing I'd say is that nobody will be disappointed in this movie. You can't be disappointed if you liked any of the other Marvel movies ... at all.<br />
<br />
Some characters got more screen time than others, so fans of one particular character may not be happy about that, but the movie made sense for every character that so there's just no legitimate complaining about it.<br />
<br />
That's probably the most impressive thing about the movie: the writing.<br />
<br />
Sure, visuals were great (though I think I was more impressed by <i>Aquaman</i> in that aspect). Sure, the fight scenes (one in particular) was amazing. Yeah, the music was spot on --- taking you on a rollercoaster ride throughout. The music leaves you feeling happy when you're supposed to feel happy, excited when you need to be excited and makes you dab your eyes a bit in certain parts (who knew that a superhero movie would tug at your emotions a bit?).<br />
<br />
The best thing about it all was the writing though. Marvel spent over 10 years successfully developing two dozen characters who fans care about, relate to and cheer for.<br />
<br />
There are so many small moments in <i>Endgame</i> that show such incredible attention to detail. Each character had a moment or moments to shine, to evolve or to give a nod to the incredible history that Marvel has created in the past 10 years.<br />
<br />
At the same time, they definitely set up some characters for the future of Marvel movies. I think I can safely write that without spoiling anything. Nobody expected Marvel movies to end after <i>Endgame</i>, right? The future is in good hands.<br />
<br />
It's not just the writing that was detailed either! Sometimes it was just a facial expression, a glance between characters or body language.<br />
<br />
Black Widow and Captain America feel comfortable around each other because they've been teammates for the past half a dozen years. Hawkeye and Widow's friendship is continued. Captain America and Iron Man have some closure after the events in <i>Civil War</i>.<br />
<br />
There were some moments that visually echoed other scenes in previous Avengers movies. Other times there were verbal references.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2plUM5JHiwiH8DAgYkbHM1SVD6GFAcNT6qd1cTkT8mRqSzFJ0XIK4vea-mkbbtFLLR04xOUH9IDEwxiG_HhRrogt8U-7GilflqTZ-irqRuGaWL55aYeLkK9IB18JD7YC_5WBMW3azjHru/s1600/MovieRatingAvengersEndgame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="837" data-original-width="475" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2plUM5JHiwiH8DAgYkbHM1SVD6GFAcNT6qd1cTkT8mRqSzFJ0XIK4vea-mkbbtFLLR04xOUH9IDEwxiG_HhRrogt8U-7GilflqTZ-irqRuGaWL55aYeLkK9IB18JD7YC_5WBMW3azjHru/s400/MovieRatingAvengersEndgame.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>Marvel paid homage to several moments in <i>Guardians of the Galaxy</i> and <i>The Avengers</i>, they recall storylines from <i>Age of Ultron</i> and gave us closure to storylines from <i>Captain America</i>, <i>Thor: The Dark World</i> and <i>Thor: Ragnarok</i>.<br />
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<i>Avengers</i> was the first time we'd seen such a big team-up movie. <i>Civil War</i> took it to another level. <i>Infinity War</i> said 'hold my beer' and took it even higher.<br />
<br />
Some people have said that <i>Endgame</i> should win an Oscar (or Oscars). While that may be true, I'm not concerned with that. In a way, I'd prefer it doesn't. It seems a bit odd that a movie with a talking raccoon and a big, purple, evil alien would be an Oscar contender.<br />
<br />
Why not just let this be the pop culture phenomenon, box office juggernaut and epic superhero movie that it is?<br />
<br />
As for a star rating? Five stars, easily.<br />
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<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/captain-marvel-reviewed.html">Captain Marvel - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/bumblebee-reviewed.html">Bumblebee - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="http://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-avengers-infinity-war-reviewed.html">The Avengers: Infinity War - reviewed.</a><br />
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Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-34680560622469544632019-03-14T20:51:00.000-04:002019-03-14T21:10:10.323-04:00Captain Marvel - reviewed.All the <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/erikkain/2019/03/14/the-captain-marvel-controversy-underscores-just-how-ridiculous-weve-become/">controversy about <i>Captain Marvel</i></a>. Who knew?<br />
<br />
If you've been paying attention to Twitter and other forms of social media, you probably did know about it.<br />
<br />
I heard bits and pieces a couple of weeks ago, but didn't bother to give it much research.<br />
<br />
I did take a look at the reports. I guess actress <b>Brie Larson</b> said while she was on a press tour promoting the movie that she wanted more diversity (specifically women) in the reviewers who get to see movies early.<br />
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I can see why that may make some people upset. But then she clarified and said that she's not asking to take anyone's seat away from the table --- just asking for more to be added.<br />
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I don't see an issue with that. That's a good way to put it.<br />
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Then people tried to bomb the movie on Rotten Tomatoes, which caused the website to make some changes.<br />
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Ehh, it is what it is.<br />
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Let's get to the movie (no spoilers in this review).<br />
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First, I really liked the way the movie handled the flashback scenes. Most of the movie took place in current time (well ... it was set in the 90s, but 'current time' for the movie).<br />
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The flashbacks were intertwined very nicely.<br />
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Unlike <i>Aquaman </i>(which also handled flashbacks very well), this movie showed bits and pieces and quick flashes --- not really full-on flashback scenes.<br />
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Eventually there was a twist when we finally saw the full flashback. It was almost like a thriller with a twist (but not as intense).<br />
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The flashbacks helped distinguish between <b>Captain Marvel</b> (Brie Larson) and her human identity of <b>Carol Danvers</b>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8TERFU6ByGkSvepv40BfQK_k6Yxn_t6m5IbBRRXRtpSkftWkexrby_tsHAMiU26oICh9v2l5U3z3L0-HQN7NlORSEe2PjJMIXAZ0xVIHES7KlhBB5dZ4ZRBnIunlmBWPCK4Qo_ldLNOe/s1600/blog+marvel+fury.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="673" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju8TERFU6ByGkSvepv40BfQK_k6Yxn_t6m5IbBRRXRtpSkftWkexrby_tsHAMiU26oICh9v2l5U3z3L0-HQN7NlORSEe2PjJMIXAZ0xVIHES7KlhBB5dZ4ZRBnIunlmBWPCK4Qo_ldLNOe/s320/blog+marvel+fury.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
Second, I liked seeing <b>Agent Coulson</b> and <b>Fury </b>(with both eyes) again. While Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) and Captain Marvel's buddy cop routine felt a little bit forced, their chemistry worked well enough.<br />
<br />
Captain Marvel is odd. She's not your typical hero (male or female). She's almost like Thor was in the first Thor --- new to Earth. She's advanced enough, in many ways, to figure out technology, but she walks around in her space suit like it's no big deal.<br />
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It's kind of a fish-out-of-water story with an almost robotic-like Captain Marvel wandering around Earth, looking for her shapeshifting foes.<br />
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It does provide for some humorous moments.<br />
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The cat -- <b>Goose </b>-- also added some levity to several scenes.<br />
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While there was humor in this movie, I don't think I laughed out loud once. I hadn't thought of that until just now. That's not to say that it's bad --- just not as funny as an <i>Aquaman </i>or <i>Thor </i>or <i>Guardians of the Galaxy</i>.<br />
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There was also drama in this movie. Carol's best friend <b>Maria Rambeau</b> (Lashana Lynch) brought out the emotions on a couple of scenes.<br />
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She seemed genuine in her tears and really made a regular moment in the movie stand out as being impactful.<br />
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On the opposite side of the coin, some of Marvel's interactions with Maria and her daughter <b>Monica Rambeau</b> (Akira Akbar) were cringeworthy to say the least.<br />
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Fury had a few cringeworthy moments as well.<br />
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The characters just didn't react the way a normal person would in a situation that involves aliens and space battles.<br />
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Maria correctly assesses that she should probably sit the space battle out so that she's there to take care of her young daughter.<br />
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Her daughter, Monica, says 'Mom, you're not being a very good role model for me' --- implying that she should go be brave and show her daughter that she can do anything.<br />
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I'm all for women's empowerment, but that's just stupid. Since when do you take your adulting cues from your 12-year-old?<br />
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You're the child's only parent. She has grandparents, so that's good. I'm not sure what the situation is with the father, but he's not part of her life.<br />
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So going into space to battle a group of aliens with possibly no way to return is good parenting? Inspiring, is it?<br />
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It wasn't inspiring. It was a little too cheesy. <br />
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There were <i>Stargate SG-1</i> levels of hokey in some other scenes (like the dishwashing scene with Fury and Marvel).<br />
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I don't know that it was agenda-pushing, but it did feel a little 'try too hard' between the strong female hero, the release on International Women's Day and the attempted inspirational 'you can do anything' dialogue.<br />
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It felt a little forced, which is too bad because Captain Marvel is definitely an interesting character.<br />
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It's always interesting to see serious actors and actresses like <b>Annette Bening</b> in superhero movies. Bening played <b>Dr. Wendy Lawson</b>. She did a good job.<br />
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It still catches me off guard sometimes though. I'm used to <i>Masters of the Universe</i> and <i>Beast Master</i> and <i>Teenage Mutant Turtles: The Secret of the Ooze</i>. You didn't get a cast with big acting chops in those movies.<br />
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It shows how far we've come in the superhero genre when you can have Michael Douglas, Glenn Close, Annette Bening, Julie Andrews, Russell Crowe and other Oscar winners as regular parts of the cast.<br />
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<b>Jude Law</b> was also in this movie, playing Captain Marvel's Kree instructor: <b>Yon-Rogg</b>.<br />
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Visually, this movie was good. I accidentally purchased a 3D ticket, so it wasn't my usual viewing experience.<br />
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There weren't any moments where I thought 'that looks like too many computer graphics.'<br />
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The Skrull costuming could've been a little more realistic, I guess, but I can't complain about that too much.<br />
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I'm not sure that their characters will really stand out in the big picture, but they served their purpose for this particular movie.<br />
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I don't remember any of their names despite the fact that they were in the movie from almost the beginning all the way to the end, so the individual character development could've been a little bit better.<br />
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As a whole, the Skrulls were developed however.<br />
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Two fight scenes that stand out to me are when Marvel is captured on a Skrull ship near the beginning of the movie and a battle on Earth (on an above-ground train).<br />
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<br />
The final fight scene was a little bit anticlimactic for me.<br />
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Marvel utilizes her awesome powers, but I would've appreciated more struggle honestly. I don't think <b>Thor</b> or <b>Thanos</b> or <b>Hulk</b> have won battles with such ease.<br />
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And, I guess we may as well talk about one <b><i><u>SPOILER </u></i></b>from the mid-credit scene ... (scroll down for the spoiler)<br />
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... keep going ...<br />
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... <i>almost</i> there ...<br />
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... Captain Marvel wasn't destroyed by Thanos' snap of the fingers and she's joined the Avengers to help battle Thanos in <i>Avengers Endgame</i> (big surprise, huh?)<br />
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Overall, it was kind of what I expected. It was a Marvel movie (meaning it looked good, the production was on point, the script was good, the acting wasn't bad and there was a mix of comedy, drama and action).<br />
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Will it do well at the box office? It already is. I'm sure it will continue to do well.<br />
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I don't know where it will finish at the box office, but I don't think it will have the natural momentum that <i>Aquaman</i> or <i>Guardians of the Galaxy</i> or <i>Ant-Man</i> or <i>Wonder Woman</i> had.<br />
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Those were hits because fans loved the movies. This is a movie that will do well because it has all of Disney and Marvel's marketing and money behind it. It's expected to do big numbers.<br />
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It'd be a disappointment if it didn't. I'm not a hater either.<br />
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When I went to see <i>Black Panther</i> on the first Saturday it was out, I caught a 9:30 or 9:45 am showing. The theater was completely full.<br />
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I saw <i>Captain Marvel</i> on the first Friday it was out at 4 pm and there were maybe 12 people in the theater.<br />
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While this isn't a bad movie, it's not groundbreaking. The positive and negative media coverage of <i>Captain Marvel</i> before it was even released will probably make it hard to judge the movie's actual success and footprint on the movie landscape (and superhero genre) until the end of the year.<br />
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Like I said in my <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/my-most-anticipated-movies-of-2019.html">Most Anticipated Movies of 2019</a> blog, it's not the movie I'm most excited to see this year.<br />
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In a year with <i>Spider-Man: Homecoming</i>, <i>Dark Phoenix</i>, <i>Shazam</i>, <i>Avengers Endgame</i> and a Joaquin Phoenix-led <i>Joker</i>, I think this will be a movie that I watched and enjoyed, but wasn't a favorite in the somewhat crowded superhero movie field.<br />
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<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/life-of-party-reviewed.html">Life of the Party - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/bumblebee-reviewed.html">Bumblebee - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/12/aquaman-reviewed.html">Aquaman - reviewed.</a><br />
• <a href="http://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-avengers-infinity-war-reviewed.html">The Avengers: Infinity War - reviewed.</a><br />
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<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-17684895113395118402019-03-06T10:29:00.001-05:002019-03-06T10:29:15.470-05:00What should the qualifications be for a WWE Hall of Fame induction?WWE's <b>Hall of Fame</b> has become one of the fans' favorite nights of the year.<br>
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Why wouldn't it be? You get to see legends and childhood heroes get the respect they deserve and hear some (hopefully) funny road stories.<br>
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There are some glaring omissions from WWE's Hall of Fame that hurt its credibility: <b>Owen Hart</b>, <b>Vader</b>, <b>Davey Boy Smith</b>, etc.<br>
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There have also been some questionable inductees that also hurt its credibility: <b>Koko B. Ware</b>, <b>The Godfather</b> and <b>Rikishi</b>.<br>
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It's understandable that each year, come Hall of Fame time, there will be debate amongst fans. Each group of fans is hoping their favorite gets the nod.<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwajkXahRJPYYG3n48qoMIYbDOGKEqllmvFhoYPI2XzMvAKwQUkNBGngZ1Nb17VFFMf5U1EVdIZQnuzo-wvKMVKLeZGeK2OxP0ON5Ivh5Czv2j_ZRKuj6xjSWIMHWTjIdtdt5KqQrls_8/s1600/blog+dx2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="956" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwajkXahRJPYYG3n48qoMIYbDOGKEqllmvFhoYPI2XzMvAKwQUkNBGngZ1Nb17VFFMf5U1EVdIZQnuzo-wvKMVKLeZGeK2OxP0ON5Ivh5Czv2j_ZRKuj6xjSWIMHWTjIdtdt5KqQrls_8/s320/blog+dx2.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
The inductions this year have caused some controversy as well. <b>Chyna</b>, for example, is being inducted. After the way <b>Triple H</b>'s comments about Chyna on <b>Stone Cold'</b>s podcast went viral a few years ago, seeing her name as a Hall of Fame inductee was a little surprising.<br>
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It was also a little shady -- giving Chyna an induction, but not a solo induction (like every other woman before her).<br>
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Instead, Chyna's induction is part of a group.<br>
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Is that the only way Chyna is going to end up in the Hall of Fame? Possibly.<br>
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I don't know that I believe WWE intended to be shady, but the optics aren't great.<br>
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In a way it's actually fitting that Chyna is inducted alongside her fellow members of <b>DX</b>. Triple H is one of the biggest names in the business. <b>The New Age Outlaws</b> are one of the most decorated and celebrated tag teams in the business. And <b>X-Pac</b> is one of the best and most underrated workers there's been (especially for a smaller guy).<br>
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Then you have <b>The Honky Tonk Man</b>. He's never put on mat classics like Savage vs. Steamboat, but he is one of the longest reigning Intercontinental Champions of all time. He certainly lasted a long time in the industry. He was a solid mid-card character in the late '80s.<br>
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Who has caused the most controversy though? <b>Torrie Wilson</b>. Some of her fans are rightfully happy that she's being inducted. A lot of fans have been vocal about their opposition to this induction. The former 2-time Playboy cover girl is certainly easy on the eyes and was very popular at the time she was in WWE. <br>
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That being said, I, too, question her merits.<br>
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<b><u>Does Torrie deserve to be in the Hall of Fame?</u></b><br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPctoBMFE6XTozsv2cUEaq7mCtbpEyRO1Vp8w4Mr8_Scyql8jffEXITMBU3-Q83W2NHcpYsPAtc36AhJvLY6IKp-JzdFgoZEgTiZ0sLhhEb8UGUiGT0w1WgNDwR2K5Nw6jakECdZfJLlJi/s1600/blog+torrie2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="624" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPctoBMFE6XTozsv2cUEaq7mCtbpEyRO1Vp8w4Mr8_Scyql8jffEXITMBU3-Q83W2NHcpYsPAtc36AhJvLY6IKp-JzdFgoZEgTiZ0sLhhEb8UGUiGT0w1WgNDwR2K5Nw6jakECdZfJLlJi/s320/blog+torrie2.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
I started watching wrestling in 1997, so I remember Torrie's debut in WCW and the WWF. She provided some memorable segments over the years, but it was all entertainment / t&a / fluff stuff.<br>
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True, she did try to wrestle (and did eventually improve to the point of putting on a passable match), but does that equal a Hall of Fame induction?<br>
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True, she did become a C-list celebrity after leaving WWE (dating Alex Rodriguez and appearing on a reality show competition), but does that equal a Hall of Fame induction?<br>
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True, she was very welcoming to new girls in the locker room (by all accounts) and wasn't problematic, but does that equal a Hall of Fame induction?<br>
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True, she was the poster girl for WWE's Smackdown brand, but does that equal a Hall of Fame induction?<br>
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<a href="http://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/03/what-should-qualifications-be-for-wwe.html#more">Read more »</a>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-80246097885677587802019-03-01T10:08:00.000-05:002019-03-01T10:08:05.653-05:00Hardee's Fruit Loop mini-donuts - reviewed.<b>Fruit Loops donuts</b>? Say what?!?<br />
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They first popped up last Fall at <b>Hardee's</b> for a limited time, but I guess that was a successful trial run because they're back.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMY1o6G1LMcd5TR_E3c8QqPfvBGYJFWe8hnHucDWj4GgRiH-6v9NSiCs6m4_nSb0V8BCFpjesMs3nXPJA8JBXor-uaF2gFPYE6awsE8FY-AHdsMe9MKuVlr_8tz6fG47T6-_mifjMdJe9a/s1600/Hardees+Fruit+Loops+Donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMY1o6G1LMcd5TR_E3c8QqPfvBGYJFWe8hnHucDWj4GgRiH-6v9NSiCs6m4_nSb0V8BCFpjesMs3nXPJA8JBXor-uaF2gFPYE6awsE8FY-AHdsMe9MKuVlr_8tz6fG47T6-_mifjMdJe9a/s320/Hardees+Fruit+Loops+Donuts.jpg" width="320" /></a>I read that they were only available as a breakfast item, but the Hardee's I called and spoke to said they were available all day long -- at least at their location.<br />
<br />
So I had myself a cheeseburger slider and 5 mini Fruit Loop-inspired and flavored donuts!<br />
<br />
I have to say, they were all really good.<br />
<br />
Now, apparently the 5 Fruit Loops colors -- red, green, yellow, blue and purple -- all taste the same in cereal form.<br />
<br />
Maybe it's in my head, but I swear the different colored donuts each had their own, somewhat distinct taste.<br />
<br />
For example, I thought the <b>yellow</b> had more of a lemon flavor than the other donuts. The <b>green</b> colored donut had the traditional Fruit Loops taste, for sure. It was kind of dry without as much frosting, though.<br />
<br />
The frosting on the <b>red</b> donut wasn't amazing.<br />
<br />
The frosting on the <b>blue</b> donut was OK, but the donut definitely had the instantly recognizable Fruit Loops flavor to it.<br />
<br />
The <b>purple</b> donut was OK, but the flavor wasn't as strong with this one. I don't know if that's just happenstance or if the food coloring somehow impacted the taste.<br />
<br />
I don't know that I'll rush out to purchase these again, but I love the idea behind it and the fact that they exist. It's smart marketing.<br />
<br />
I'm a fan of when different brands team up for a unique product, whether it's <b>Yoplait</b> and <b>Dunkin' Donuts</b> or <b>Oreo</b> and <b>Swedish Fish</b>.<br />
<br />
While these donuts weren't the most amazing things I've ever eaten, I'd order them again if they brought them back again 6 months or a year down the road.<br />
<br />
<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-15565807760966252962019-02-25T16:10:00.000-05:002019-03-03T21:26:03.453-05:00My dream Wrestlemania 35 card ... based in realityWrestlemania is just a few weeks away and it seems like it's going to be a lengthy show.<br />
<br />
After the Royal Rumble's main show was approximately 5 hours, there's no way that Wrestlemania won't be just as long.<br />
<br />
I'd like to see them place several matches on the pre-show (and start early so that the East Coast doesn't get done watching it at Midnight) so that it's not such a chore to sit through.<br />
<br />
Anything over 5 hours and it's bordering leg cramps, people going home from viewing parties so they can get up for work the next day and losing interest.<br />
<br />
So how would you book Wrestlemania?<br />
<br />
To be honest there aren't a lot of matches I'm really looking forward to seeing. There are some matches I'd like to see happen but I know they're not going to.<br />
<br />
I have a dream card, but, realistically, it probably won't happen. For example, I think this year would've been a great time to do <b>The Undertaker vs. Shinsuke Nakamura</b>. I can say with 99.9% certainty that it's not going to happen.<br />
<br />
So, when coming up with this, I tried to base most of the booking in reality.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>The main card:</u></b><br />
<br />
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<b>Raw Women's Title Match (Main Event):</b><br />
Ronda Rousey vs. Becky Lynch<br />
<br />
This should be the main event. <b>Becky Lynch</b> is at an all-time career high. Ronda Rousey is a star.<br />
<br />
Rumors are that <b>Ronda Rousey</b> is going to be taking time off to spend time with her husband and possibly become a mom.<br />
<br />
There's no better time to let two women main event Wrestlemania than this.<br />
<br />
WWE will likely keep <b>Charlotte </b>in that mix (making it a triple threat), but I'd let her sit this one out. Let Ronda and Becky tell their story without that additional element.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>WWE Universal Title Match:</b><br />
Seth Rollins vs. Brock Lesnar<br />
<br />
I don't know if I'm excited for this or not. I'd say give <b>Rollins </b>the win, but he's got some nagging injuries so maybe not? Still, it's time for <b>Brock </b>to lose the title. Seth is a safe babyface candidate to win the title and lead the Raw brand for a couple of months before losing the title to someone else.<br />
<br />
Whoever wins, I expect it to be a 10 - 15 minute Brock Lesnar match. I don't think there's much of a reason to spend more time on it than that.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLG6u4RC-wV_G59clAjLNXwUhnEtb3YBnA5Fmw6fVi1N7u4Ci8JBYi7KuA2iXh4aFIbv2U4FT6fbXjZVD82hnBh2-nW9YwQ6GuxELzz3BznGVG3NPivgHTfn9aez7U3sjSchKw1PQSe62/s1600/blog+dbry2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1565" data-original-width="1546" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLG6u4RC-wV_G59clAjLNXwUhnEtb3YBnA5Fmw6fVi1N7u4Ci8JBYi7KuA2iXh4aFIbv2U4FT6fbXjZVD82hnBh2-nW9YwQ6GuxELzz3BznGVG3NPivgHTfn9aez7U3sjSchKw1PQSe62/s320/blog+dbry2.png" width="316" /></a></div>
<b>WWE Heavyweight Title Match:</b><br />
Daniel Bryan vs. Kofi Kingston vs. Randy Orton vs. Rey Mysterio vs. AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe<br />
<br />
WWE just did an Elimination Chamber match with 6 competitors, but they've booked themselves into a corner here. Unless they have several one-on-one matches without titles on the line (and they'd need to build up the feuds pretty quickly to make that happen), they're going to have to do a multi-man WWE Title match.<br />
<br />
Give <b>Kofi </b>the shot since fans want it to happen. <b>Randy </b>is reliable and seems to be entering a feud with <b>Styles</b>, so may as well throw them in there. <b>Rey </b>and <b>Samoa Joe</b> are two good additional options.<br />
<br />
You could put <b>Jeff Hardy</b> or <b>Mustafa Ali</b> in there too, but why rush Mustafa. He could main event Summerslam if need be. Wait on him a little bit.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Smackdown Women's Title Match</b><br />
Asuka vs. Charlotte (the rematch)<br />
<br />
Instead of inserting Charlotte into the Becky Lynch / Ronda Rousey match, I'd give her and <b>Asuka </b>a good amount of time to work another great match for the Smackdown Women's Title. Asuka needs a win and the Smackdown Women's Title needs some credibility after all the focus has been on Raw's Women's Title. A memorable match is just the thing to revive some interest on the blue brand.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<b>4 Corner WWE Women's Tag Team Title Match:</b><br />
Sasha Banks and Bayley vs. Nia Jax and Tamina vs. The IIconics vs. Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville<br />
<br />
I'd prefer Sasha and Bayley vs. one tag team from each brand:<br />
- Nia Jax and Tamina (good heel team from Raw)<br />
- The IIconics (from Smackdown)<br />
- Io Shirai and Kairi Sane (representing NXT)<br />
<br />
You could remove Nia and Tamina to throw NXT UK's <b>Toni Storm</b> and <b>Rhea Ripley</b> (who are feuding) in for their brand, but Nia and Tamina are big and could probably take more of Io and Kairi's aerial offense.<br />
<br />
I realize that the match I want to happen probably won't, so let's just make it a 4 corner bout with <b>Mandy </b>and <b>Sonya </b>in there instead of <b>Io </b>and <b>Kairi</b>.<br />
<br />
I don't think I'd make a title switch just yet.<br />
<br />
Save that for after Wrestlemania.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Cruiserweight Title Match:</b><br />
Buddy Murphy vs. ???<br />
<br />
I'm not sure who will end up facing <b>Buddy Murphy</b>. WWE has done zero to get fans interested in 205 Live. They just released a couple of their main roster guys, too.<br />
<br />
I'd turn Murphy face (he's got the moveset to make it work) or at least make him a tweener and have him go up against <b>Noam Dar</b>. Or maybe Noam Dar and <b>Cedric Alexander</b> in a triple threat.<br />
<br />
The cruiserweights always get the short end of the stick so they'll probably end up on the pre-show, but I'd love to see them on the main card this year.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>4 Corner WWE Tag Team Champions Match (no titles on the line):</b><br />
The Usos vs. The Revival vs. The War Raiders vs. James Drake and Zack Gibson<br />
<br />
Not sure how to get the tag team champions on the card, so I figured may as well do a champion vs. champion thing. WWE actually has 4 sets of male tag team champions between all of their brands, so may as well throw them all out there to make it a little more interesting.<br />
<br />
The Usos vs. The Revival would be a good match by itself too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<b>Shane McMahon vs. The Miz</b><br />
<br />
I'm not interested in this feud. I'm not interested in <b>Shane McMahon</b> wrestling (at the big shows or on weekly TV). I know I'm stuck with it though.<br />
<br />
<b>Miz </b>will turn on Shane before 'Mania and they'll have a big match there.<br />
<br />
It's not that I don't like Shane. I do. It's that he's not a wrestler and he's taking up a spot that someone else could have. This can be the one non-title match they have on the card.<br />
<br />
Let's not give them 25 minutes for it though, huh? 15 is more than enough.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<b>Intercontinental Title Match:</b><br />
Finn Balor vs. Lashley (with Lio Rush)<br />
<br />
<b>Finn </b>hasn't really had an interesting feud for most of 2018. Going for a rematch here is easy but may as well do it. Either that or <b>Drew McIntyre</b> vs. Finn vs. Lashley? Or Drew vs. Finn?<br />
<br />
Raw has a lot of guys who are floating right now --- ready to main event but not being given the opportunity to do so. <b>Braun</b>, Drew, <b>Lashley</b>, Finn and even <b>Elias </b>could all be main eventing Raw each week.<br />
<br />
Remember in 1999 when <b>Mankind</b>, <b>The Undertaker</b>, <b>Steve Austin</b>, <b>The Rock</b>, <b>Triple H</b> and <b>The Big Show</b> were all main event ready and could step up as a challenger on any given night?<br />
<br />
WWE has that same kind of situation here. The only difference is that Lesnar has the WWE Universal Title.<br />
<br />
I'm a fan of the guy, for sure. But it's time to take it off of him and then let the new crop of guys emerge.<br />
<br />
They can still use Brock at their big events. He doesn't need the championship to be an attraction though. He is an attraction all by himself.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Pre-show:</u></b><br />
<br />
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<b>Women's Battle Royal (they should rename it the Chyna Memorial Battle Royal or the Sherri Martel Memorial Battle Royal)</b><br />
<br />
Not much to say about this one. It gets the other women on the card. <b>Naomi </b>could win it two years in a row.<br />
<br />
If WWE is going with Charlotte vs. Becky vs. Ronda, then put Asuka's title on the line, put this on the main card and let her dominate the thing.<br />
<br />
If Asuka is not involved in this match, then it's a pre-show match.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal</b><br />
<br />
Put <b>Braun </b>in this match and let him destroy everyone. I'm talking 12+ eliminations.<br />
WWE needs to build him up as a monster again. This would at least be a step in the right direction.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/who-could-should-wont-and-shouldnt-show_9.html">Who could, should, won't and shouldn't show up at WWE's 2019 men's Royal Rumble?</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/who-could-should-wont-and-shouldnt-show.html">Who could, should, won't and shouldn't show up at WWE's 2nd women's Royal Rumble?</a><br />
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<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-46259275348845217512019-02-25T11:02:00.001-05:002019-02-25T11:02:31.184-05:00Goodbye to TV superheroesFor a while there you couldn't turn on the TV without seeing some kind of superhero show.<br />
<br />
It seems that the end of a TV superhero era is upon us, however.<br />
<br />
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Rumors are that <i><b>Arrow </b></i>(on the <b>CW Network</b>) <a href="https://wegotthiscovered.com/tv/arrow-legends-tomorrow-seasons/">will be cancelled</a> after the next season. Along with that, <i><b>Legends of Tomorrow</b></i> is also apparently on the way out.<br />
<br />
There are even rumors that <i><b>Supergirl </b></i>may be replaced by a <b>Superman </b>TV show.<br />
<br />
<b>Netflix </b>just announced <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/insertcoin/2019/02/18/netflix-has-cancelled-the-punisher-and-jessica-jones-completing-its-marvel-extermination/">the cancellation of <i><b>Jessica Jones</b></i> and <i><b>The Punisher</b></i></a>.<br />
<br />
This is after <i style="font-weight: bold;">Daredevil</i>, <i style="font-weight: bold;">Iron Fist </i>and <i style="font-weight: bold;">Luke Cage</i> were all cancelled last Fall.<br />
<br />
And any <i><b>Gotham </b></i>fan knows that this show is going away after the end of this season, too.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>Relax --- it's all cyclical:</u></b><br />
<br />
While many fans are probably upset by the abundance of cancellation news, I'm not.<br />
<br />
I'll miss <i>Daredevil </i>and <i>Gotham</i>. To be honest, I haven't had the chance to keep up with Jessica Jones' second season, Luke Cage's second season, the last season and a half of <i>Arrow </i>or finish the first season of <i>The Punisher</i>.<br />
<br />
It's just a lot to keep up with (especially when I'm watching <i>The Good Place</i> and <i>Manifest </i>in real time each week).<br />
<br />
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Also, I grew up in the 1990s. The only (non-animated) show we got back then was <i><b>Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman</b></i>.<br />
<br />
Before that (in the late 80s), there was <i><b>The Flash</b></i> and <i><b>The Swamp Thing</b></i> (though neither lasted for very many seasons).<br />
<br />
<b><i>Smallville </i></b>came around in the early 2000s (though I never watched it) during another lull in superhero TV programming.<br />
<br />
Then Marvel changed everything with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. There was a big boom with superheroes on the big screen, so, naturally, that trend migrated to the small screen.<br />
<br />
Just think about all of the shows we got in the past 5 years:<br />
<br />
- <i>Arrow </i>| CW Network<br />
Oct. 2012 – present<br />
<br />
- Marvel's <i>Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.</i> | ABC Network<br />
Sept. 2013 – present<br />
<br />
- <i>The Flash</i> | CW Network<br />
Oct. 2014 – present<br />
<br />
- <i>Gotham </i>| FOX<br />
Sept. 2014 – May 2019<br />
<br />
- <i>Agent Carter </i>| ABC<br />
Jan. 2015 – March 2016<br />
<br />
- <i>Daredevil </i>| Netflix<br />
April 2015 – Oct. 2018<br />
<br />
- <i>Supergirl </i>| CBS (and then CW Network)<br />
Oct. 2015 – present<br />
<br />
- <i>Jessica Jones</i> | Netflix<br />
Nov. 2015 – 2019<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
- DC's <i>Legend's of Tomorrow</i> | CW Network<br />
Jan. 2016 – present<br />
<br />
- <i>The Iron Fist</i> | Netflix<br />
March 2017 – Nov. 2018<br />
<br />
- <i>Inhumans</i> | ABC<br />
Sept. 2017 – Nov. 2017<br />
<br />
- <i>The Punisher</i> | Netflix<br />
Nov. 2017 – Jan. 2019<br />
<br />
- <i>Black Lightning</i> | CW Network<br />
Jan. 2018 – present<br />
<br />
- <i>Cloak & Dagger</i> | Freeform<br />
June 7, 2018 – present<br />
<br />
<br />
What a time to be a fan of superheroes! We had a good 7 years -- really good! Plus, the <b>Arrowverse </b>gave us several crossover events.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed <i>The Defenders</i> (the Jessica Jones, Daredevil, Iron Fist and Luke Cage team-up) too.<br />
<br />
All things come to an end, though, so it makes sense that an overly saturated market on the superhero front couldn't sustain itself.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>There's more to come --- but you'll have to pay for it:</u></b><br />
<br />
Unfortunately the trend these days seems to be each network or company having their own streaming service like <b>Netflix</b> and <b>Hulu</b> (I have my own thoughts on that for another blog post at another time).<br />
<br />
The good thing is that the <b>DC</b> and <b>Disney</b> (and therefore <b>Marvel</b>) platforms need content for their services.<br />
<br />
<b>DC Universe</b> launched in Sept. 2018 and already has a couple of TV shows that are available to watch:<br />
<br />
- <i>Titans</i> | DC Universe<br />
Sept. 2018 – present<br />
based on DC's Teen Titans, this show has been renewed for a second season<br />
<br />
- <i>Doom Patrol</i> | DC Universe<br />
<div>
Feb. 2019 – present<br />
it's a spin-off of <i>Titans</i><br />
<br /></div>
They have a handful more that are in development:<br />
<br />
- <i>Swamp Thing</i> | DC Universe<br />
<div>
Scheduled to debut sometime in 2019<br />
<br /></div>
- <i>Stargirl</i> | DC Universe<br />
<div>
Scheduled to debut in Aug. 2019<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<b>Disney+</b> is probably going to be one of the new homes for a lot of superhero content.<br />
<br />
There's a good likelihood that <i>Daredevil </i>and <i>Luke Cage </i>will be revived on Disney+. That would mean viewers would have to follow the show from Netflix to Disney+. Fans did that with other shows in the past, however, so it could work.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFObc63h59nTt9n7NX7EuQQnBCSbNfINOPLUr0oUO6jbq5QIW_0aA5skbcWC10WWzr9GuiiEzZtXa8Ny2tga3JhGzUnsimpk8Io-lYB9wg_pmpxpG_sd_4t5ZDP3koEgKIkhG8BT0Rkv-Y/s1600/blog+loki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="699" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFObc63h59nTt9n7NX7EuQQnBCSbNfINOPLUr0oUO6jbq5QIW_0aA5skbcWC10WWzr9GuiiEzZtXa8Ny2tga3JhGzUnsimpk8Io-lYB9wg_pmpxpG_sd_4t5ZDP3koEgKIkhG8BT0Rkv-Y/s320/blog+loki.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
They also have 3 exciting shows at various stages of development:<br />
<br />
- <i>The Vision and Scarlet Witch</i> | Disney+<br />
<div>
Scheduled to debut sometime in 2019</div>
this will be a limited series that explores the relationship between <b>Scarlet Witch</b> (Elizabeth Olsen) and <b>Vision </b>(Paul Bettany)<br />
<br />
- Untitled <i>Falcon and Winter Soldier</i> project | Disney+<br />
<div>
In development</div>
<div>
Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan will reprise their roles as <b>Falcon</b> and <b>Winter Soldier</b> in this live-action series. It's apparently going to be kind of a buddy cop series with a superhero flavor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- <i>Loki</i> | Disney+<br />
<div>
In development<br />
Lastly (and perhaps most exciting), there is a limited series on <b>Loki</b> that is being worked on. So even if <b>Tom Hiddleston</b> doesn't return in <b><i>Avengers Endgame</i></b>, he'll be reprising his now iconic character at some point.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
While all of this means we'll have to pay for content, it is going to be available.<br />
<br />
I'm a fan of DVDs because I like to have a copy to watch when the internet goes down or when programs are removed from Netflix or other streaming services, so I'm hoping they release some of these series on DVD.<br />
<br />
Then I can purchase them (and watch them over and over) without having to pay that monthly fee. I'm not sure if DVD releases will happen though.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u>What does the future hold?</u></b><br />
<br />
I wouldn't be surprised to see some new superhero shows end up on the mainstream networks again. DC Universe and Disney+ almost need to keep shows on their platforms in order for them to be successful.<br />
<br />
It's one thing to get someone to watch network television, but it's another to get them to pay $10 - $15 a month to watch your shows.<br />
<br />
I anticipate additional shows coming soon on both platforms, especially on DC Universe since it consists entirely of superheroes. Disney+ can utilize <b>Mary Poppins</b>, <b>Aladdin</b>, etc., etc.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQlzh94s4w-lUMJ_H0sE1crVSnFd_zLK3fa2F3hmdKKGTG37iw_doLA29DQ6HKJc5P2oiHpDm-MOcDhSERz5t6DZW-oF8I2wM9Ahjyr4LkOL44RASkDS_-cDoY1CGIhMdBZR_M5iuZjgE/s1600/blog+dc.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="928" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcQlzh94s4w-lUMJ_H0sE1crVSnFd_zLK3fa2F3hmdKKGTG37iw_doLA29DQ6HKJc5P2oiHpDm-MOcDhSERz5t6DZW-oF8I2wM9Ahjyr4LkOL44RASkDS_-cDoY1CGIhMdBZR_M5iuZjgE/s320/blog+dc.png" width="320" /></a></div>
DC Universe doesn't have a library of ready-made content that vast, so they need to create new shows.<br />
<br />
New superhero shows on the main networks probably won't debut within the next couple of years, but give it another 5 years and we may see an entirely new crop of superhero television.<br />
<br />
With such a vast library of characters in Marvel and DC's extensive comic book archives, some of the lesser known characters are perfect for TV. They can be developed into something bigger.<br />
<br />
<b>The Green Arrow</b> was never an extremely popular character, but just look at what <i>Arrow</i> did for the character.<br />
<br />
It spawned an entire Arrowverse.<br />
<br />
<b>CW</b> has always been a superhero-friendly, but they're also focused on ratings.<br />
<br />
If they think a show will do well, they've proven that they'll take the chance and pick it up. If the show doesn't perform, it will get cancelled.<br />
<br />
That's how TV networks operate.<br />
<br />
While this may be the end of one era, it's sure to lead to another.<br />
<br />
Maybe a <b>Fantastic Four</b> television series? Or a series about <b>Amanda Waller</b> and her rise to the top of <b>A.R.G.U.S.</b>?<br />
<br />
I could see either of those shows airing on the CW.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Superhero movies aren't going away anytime soon, so superheroes on TV aren't going away either. I'm sure there are several TV networks that would love to cash in on the popularity of the superhero genre as much as they possibly can.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It's just a matter of finding the right characters to tell a good story to garner ratings.</div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/02/so-what-to-do-about-dceus-batman.html">So ... what to do about DCEU's Batman?</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/08/so-who-should-be-next-james-bond.html">So ... who should be the next James Bond?</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/09/so-what-to-do-about-dceus-superman.html">So ... what to do about DCEU's Superman?</a><br />
<br />Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-41773205952395767042019-02-21T13:20:00.000-05:002019-02-21T13:20:11.474-05:00So ... what to do about DCEU's Batman?There have been rumors for the better part of a year that, after three movies, <b>Ben Affleck</b> was done playing the role of <b>Batman</b>.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9dx4FVi7-vuFLqSdGTr8TmxAYov4treIckc2UEyHBjrt53mT7hnGehkubrVpz-ypbwzvZHJ4wZA8pbRQ7VKmPAwIVYDPxSnjmrpCfSkmvlh0vI3ZImgTHkTxm8Gfo4SbrMQOiYOC_7kf/s1600/blog+batman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1534" data-original-width="1600" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA9dx4FVi7-vuFLqSdGTr8TmxAYov4treIckc2UEyHBjrt53mT7hnGehkubrVpz-ypbwzvZHJ4wZA8pbRQ7VKmPAwIVYDPxSnjmrpCfSkmvlh0vI3ZImgTHkTxm8Gfo4SbrMQOiYOC_7kf/s320/blog+batman.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Affleck faced a lot of criticism when it was first announced that he had the role (I never bought into that criticism myself). He silenced a lot of the haters after starring roles in <i>Batman v. Superman</i> and <i>Justice League</i> (and his brief appearance in <i>Suicide Squad</i>).<br />
<br />
I guess he's been to rehab and may have some other personal issues happening --- or creative issues with Warner Brothers.<br />
<br />
I was hoping that he could have a minimized role in the DCEU, but he confirmed <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjGt8hwbXHA">on a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel</a> that it's not happening. He's done.<br />
<br />
The question is: what do they do about Batman now?<br />
<br />
There are a few options, just as they had when rumors swirled last fall that Henry Cavill was done playing Superman:<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1) Recast a new Batman for the DCEU</b><br />
<br />
This is my least favorite option. It really isn't an option in my opinion. It destroys the credibility of this universe that DC has been trying to set up.<br />
<br />
<i>Man of Steel</i> was their first effort into this universe, but Batman's addition in <i>Batman v. Superman</i> is what really jump started it into being a universe instead of just a couple of Superman movies.<br />
<br />
I despise when characters in movies are recast. Write around it instead!<br />
<br />
You own the name and rights to the Batman character.<br />
<br />
You don't need to physically see Ben Affleck as Batman.<br />
<br />
Shoot some flashbacks with someone else in the suit if you need them.<br />
<br />
Use the <b>Batarang </b>(like they do in <i>Shazam!</i>) or <b>newspaper clippings</b> to tie the universe together. They could even use <b>J.K. Simmons</b> in his role as <b>Commissioner Gordon</b> to tie things together. There's no need to recast Batman into this universe.<br />
<br />
That will only make it all look silly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>2) Continue on without Batman</b><br />
<br />
I'd prefer that they do this. I'm a huge fan of Batman (my favorite comic book character of all time), but, honestly, I think there's probably a little bit of Batman fatigue since the story has been told so many times.<br />
<br />
8 movies since 1989 (not counting <i>Justice League</i> or <i>Suicide Squad</i>). 8 movies in 30 years may not sound like a lot, but when you consider that movies have been released approximately every 3.75 years, it ends up being overdone. <br />
<br />
This DCEU doesn't really <i><u>need</u> </i>Ben Affleck as Batman anymore.<br />
<br />
<i>Aquaman </i>was a massive success and <b>Jason Momoa</b> will only get better in sequels as he continues to get more comfortable with portraying his version of Aquaman.<br />
<br />
<b>Gal Gadot</b> has already aced her role as Wonder Woman and I don't see that changing any time soon. That role is hers for as long as she wants it and for as long as fans are interested.<br />
<br />
Marvel is dishing out <i>Captain Marvel</i>, but Wonder Woman will be hard to beat. She's got so much history on her side that it makes it hard for Captain Marvel to even compete.<br />
<br />
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If DC can come to terms with <b>Henry Cavill</b> (and they should!), then they're set. Cavill showed he has box-office drawing power outside of the DC movies with his role in <i>Mission: Impossible</i> last summer. Pay the man what he's worth and get him back for more movies (with better scripts).<br />
<br />
You've got your top 3 box office heavyweights with <b>Aquaman, Wonder Woman and Superman</b>. You don't need Batman for this universe to be complete.<br />
<br />
Plus, I think <i>Shazam!</i> is going to be very successful too. There's a lot of potential for <b>The Flash</b> with <b>Ezra Miller</b> playing that role.<br />
<br />
<b>Ray Fisher</b> didn't jump off the screen as <b>Cyborg</b> in <i>Justice League</i>, but I think that character could be reworked and developed in a very successful way too.<br />
<br />
That's not even taking <b>the Green Lantern</b> into consideration. If they do a good job casting for that role and put that movie out, then Warner Brothers has another big superhero name to work with.<br />
<br />
Ben Affleck did a good job as an aging Batman who set up the Justice League. I'm fine with this version of Batman ending that way.<br />
<br />
They could do Justice League movies without Batman as well. Bring in Martian Manhunter. Use some of the already established characters from Aquaman. Use Jesse Eisenberg (who I thought did a good job) as Lex Luthor. Use Joe Manganiello (great casting by the way!) as Slade Wilson.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>3) Come to terms with Ben Affleck for future appearances</b><br />
<br />
This would be ideal. I'd still prefer they shift the focus to the other Justice League characters, but think about it this way: <b>Aquaman </b>has a successful sequel, <b>Wonder Woman</b> ends up as a trilogy, Cavill comes back for another <b>Superman</b> movie and <i>Shazam</i> does well and has a sequel. Then <b>the Green Lantern</b>, <b>The Flash</b> and (possibly) <b>Cyborg</b> all have solo movies.<br />
<br />
This could all take place over the next 10 years.<br />
<br />
Maybe they do a <b>Justice League 2</b> or a <b>Legion of Doom</b> or <b>Justice League Dark</b> --- let's say in 2024 or 2026.<br />
<br />
It's always possible Affleck and Warner Brothers could come to terms for a follow-up appearance. Batman wouldn't be the focus of the movie, but could have a small-to-medium-sized role in the movie.<br />
<br />
Maybe Batman even dies in that movie?<br />
<br />
It'd be a better ending than randomly disappearing from this universe entirely.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>4) Cast a new Batman in an alternate timeline / universe</b><br />
<br />
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This is probably the number one option in my opinion. Depending on the success of Joaquin Phoenix in <i>The Joker</i> in October of this year (and depending on how that <i>The Batman</i> script turns out), they could cast a new (and younger) Batman --- kind of like <i>Gotham </i>has done on <b>FOX </b>--- and move in that direction.<br />
<br />
They could connect <i>The Joker</i> to <i>The Batman</i> in a face-off movie sequel if both of the origin movies are successful enough.<br />
<br />
We'd get the villain's origin story (<i>The Joker</i>) and the hero's origin story (<i>The Batman</i>) and then we could get Batman vs. Joker in a sequel to both movies.<br />
<br />
Now that would be unique. There would be some build-up to the confrontation between these two classic rivals because the third movie in what could be essentially a trilogy would be the first time they go head-to-head.<br />
<br />
There are very few rivalries in fiction that are better than Batman vs. The Joker.<br />
<br />
We've seen that Batman can carry movies on his own. That's been proven time and time (and time) again. This character doesn't need the Justice League to be successful.<br />
<br />
Given how awesome Gotham has been, a series of origin movies involving Batman's enemies (and an eventual clash between them) would be very interesting.<br />
<br />
<br />
What do you think? What's the best option for Batman going forward.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Related Content:</b><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/08/so-who-should-be-next-james-bond.html">So ... who should be the next James Bond?</a><br />
• <a href="https://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2018/09/so-what-to-do-about-dceus-superman.html">So ... what to do about DCEU's Superman?</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-13067514972401084592019-02-20T21:34:00.000-05:002019-02-25T21:18:29.390-05:00Pink: Beautiful Trauma - reviewed.<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IJGPnbpmHhQ"><b>Pink </b>revealed on <b>Ellen </b>last week</a> that she’s coming out with a new album in April.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, damn! <i><b>The Truth About Love</b></i> came out in 2012 and <i><b>Beautiful Trauma</b></i> was just released in 2016. Usually there’s a space of a few years between her albums.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Since I realized I purchased but never actually listened to all of the songs on <i>Beautiful Trauma</i>, I figured I’d better take a listen before her new material is out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The post-motherhood Pink has been kind of hit-or-miss. She turned a direction with her <i>Greatest Hits …. So Far!</i> album. The new tracks on that release ('F**kin’ Perfect,' 'Raise Your Glass') had attitude but didn’t feature the rebellious nature that her previous work had. </div>
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They were rebellious, but in a more positive way. Those songs lead into ‘Just Like Fire’ and ‘What About Us.’ </div>
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Gone is the poetic angst that put her on the map. It’s replaced by a fighter for equality and her perception of justice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s great to see that Pink has grown as a person, but every now and then I want a funky “Bad Influence” or a poppy “Stupid Girls” or a rocking “Long Way to Happy.’<o:p></o:p></div>
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We’ll see what comes out of this album …<o:p></o:p><br />
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<o:p> </o:p> </div>
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<b>Beautiful Trauma</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I think this should’ve been the lead single. It’s a great song, but it didn’t really find it’s footing on the top 40 chart following ‘What About Us.’ </div>
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There are a lot of different elements to it --- with the piano and orchestra and techno beats. Somehow, this song manages to be both fun and emotional at the same time (with some great vocals as well). </div>
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I think this would’ve had better success as a lead single rather than a secondary single.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Revenge (featuring Eminem)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Pink and Eminem have worked on several songs together over the years yet none of them have gotten any radio play. Maybe that’s because it’s not 2002 anymore.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This song stands out like a sore thumb compared to the rest of the album. It’s fun. It’s goofy. It reminds me of Pink’s work on The Truth About Love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It really didn’t even need Eminem’s part. It could’ve been a fine song without him. He does fit right in on this song though. He even sings more than he raps on this one.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The message of the song got lost on me by the end of the song, but I didn’t really care.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Whatever You Want</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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I remember hearing this on the radio a few times, but it’s somewhat forgettable. It almost sounds like her work on '<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Nrv5teMc9Y">Just Like Fire</a>.'<o:p></o:p></div>
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I feel like it was too similar, which is maybe why it didn't succeed as a single the way one may expect it to.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The odd vocal emphasis on certain lyrics is a little different than the rest of the album. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">"You </span><b style="font-family: calibri;">don't</b><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> seem to give </span><b style="font-family: calibri;">two shits</b><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> / </span><b style="font-family: calibri;">'Cause</b><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> you're </span><b style="font-family: calibri;">just </b><span style="font-family: "calibri";">too cool, </span><b style="font-family: calibri;">baby</b><span style="font-family: "calibri";">."</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">It's not as distinct after 'Just Like Fire' was all over the radio not too long ago.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">The theme of a troubled relationship that seems to hold strong through the storms is kind of tired after being used on the past several albums.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">It's a common theme, obviously, in most songs, but Pink, in particular, has used it ad nauseam.</span><br />
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<b>What About Us</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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It was an OK song. It was actually amazing when it comes to Pink’s vocals, but I didn’t feel the authenticity here. Her anti-Trump song had a couple of lyrical mistakes too.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">"We were willin', we came when you called / But, man, you fooled us, enough is enough, oh."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">Since when did people overwhelmingly go to Trump when he called to them? Sure, he's got some supporters, but I don't think any of his supporters are the ones who are upset with him.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">That part didn't really make sense to me.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">Also, the song came off as stereotypically millennial (and I'm a millennial!). It was a little bit whiny.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br />
</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">It reminded me of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92CLDMXIBcE">pro wrestler Raven from his WCW days</a>. "What about me? What about Raven?!?" he'd ask the audience in an angsty tone.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">Great vocals and some good music, but there was too much of a disconnect for me. I couldn't figure out if it was a song about romantic love or a political statement against Trump. The song was unclear to me.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">I think a more focused anti-Trump song would've been the better route rather than a couple of small moments where she alludes to it.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">For example, 'Dear Mr. President' was a great song. It had a clear message that wasn't confusing at all.</span></div>
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<b>But We Lost It</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">This starts off with some nice piano and a melancholy Pink singing "I wanna know where does love go to die / Is it some sad empty castle in the skies?"</span><br />
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I'm going to be repetitive by the end of this review, but Pink's talent is amazing. Forget Vegas. I feel like she should be on Broadway after hearing some of these songs.</div>
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That being said, the song isn't a classic. It's no 'Time After Time' or 'Nothing Compares 2 U.'</div>
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It's a nice song with some beautiful piano work and very nice vocals, but it's not as memorable as it should've been.</div>
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Who knows --- it may be a song that grows on you the more you listen to it.</div>
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<b>Barbies</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Maybe I’d relate to it a little more if I was a female, but it didn’t leave an impression on me. It was an OK song with a few clever lines.<br />
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'Barbies' is about wanting to go back to being a child (in more simplistic times) and playing “barbies in my room.”<br />
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It missed the mark though. It should've been a relatable song. Most people have experienced a time where they want to go back to their childhood, even if it's just for a day.<br />
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The song felt cheesier more than anything else though.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Where We Go</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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This one isn't bad. I'm not exactly sure what the message was after listening to it, but it's kind of uplifting. I think it's a love song.<br />
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It's a toe-tapper (one of the only ones on the album so far).<br />
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The use of guitar here reminds me of a Kesha-esque country song. It's kind of a genre-sharing song. Not the absolute best song on the album, but it's probably up there.<br />
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<b>For Now</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Piano and Pink is how this song starts. Some guitar kicks in as well. Pink is really looking to put her voice on display on this album.</div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">It's a love song. "Tonight can we just get it right / Somehow, for now / Freeze frame, pause, rewind, stop."</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">The lyrics could've been better, but the music makes up for that.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">The guitar is definitely my favorite part. It's simple and works well with Pink's voice.</span><br />
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</span> <span style="font-family: "calibri";">The main chorus was a little bit overproduced. Too much happening there between Pink singing, the instruments, Pink's backup vocals and the EDM beats.</span><br />
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<b>Secrets</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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There was a little <i>Funhouse</i> homage paid here with the ‘Da da da da do do do’ bit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The rest of the song was somewhat lackluster. It was like the forgettable track she recorded for Ellen ('Today’s the Day') with a little element of 'Funhouse.' That 'Funhouse' element was probably the best part of the song.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s not a lot of depth to the lyrics either. It’s pretty much ‘Everybody’s got a secret / I got some things to say.’ </div>
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Secrets about what? Secrets about who? The song never goes that far.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Better Life<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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This song reminded me of something that may have appeared on Can’t Take Me Home, but with a more mature sound. It’s got a nice sound. The lyrics aren’t that impressive, but the rhymes and emphasis on them (along with the fun piano work) makes it a fun song.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think it should’ve been a single. It would’ve been a better choice than Whatever You Want. It demonstrates some much-needed variety on this effort.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>I Am Here</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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This one had a nice beginning at least. It stood out from the rest of the songs on the album. Then Pink goes into the role she carved out for herself on the rest of the album: comfortable and soulful. She’s got great vocals, but 13 songs of great vocals that sound the same (without actually saying much) doesn’t make the best album.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally, the main chorus kicks in with some powerful backup choir singers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If it weren’t for that church choir and the up-tempo ‘Where’s everybody go when they go’ lines, this song would blend into the rest of them on Beautiful Trauma.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Pink’s voice is initially partnered with a piano but the lyrics sound like the rest of the album at this point, especially on track 12. The song, on its own, is probably very impressive. At this point in the album, however, it’s the same old thing / same old message.<o:p></o:p></div>
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‘There’s not enough rope to tie me down / there’s not enough to shut this mouth’ would probably be more of a memorable and inspiring rally cry if it didn’t seem so familiar (and overused).<o:p></o:p></div>
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At first, it lacks the oomph to be a really powerful song, but thankfully Pink builds up to some power before the 3:21 minute song ends.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It seems like a song that would maybe be on Broadway and it’s quite a nice song, really. But there wasn’t enough of a payoff after the slow build.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>You Get My Love</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Pink is a Bette Middler fan and that’s what this song kind of reminded me of. It starts with Pink and a piano (again …) rather slow. Then, about halfway through, Pink belts out a few of the lines. And that's pretty much a wrap on this song.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Overall, <i>Beautiful Trauma</i> a familiar Pink album with a few new elements, but not enough to feel fresh.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most of the songs are either light and airy or slow and melodic with a lot of the powerful vocals. This was definitely a great showcase for Pink’s voice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This wasn’t an album full of impactful and memorable songs that you can sing along to. It’s an album filled with songs that make you appreciate Pink’s voice. I miss the rocker Pink though.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There was no song that was as emotional as 'Who Knew' or as vulnerable as 'I Don’t Believe You' or as fun as 'So What' or as in-your-face as 'U + Ur Hand' or as energetic as 'Blow Me (One Last Kiss).'<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s ironic because this is probably some of Pink’s best vocal work (intricate techniques can be heard in almost every song). Due to that fact, it’s hard to give any of the songs a bad rating, but Pink seems a little lost with this album. <o:p></o:p></div>
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She didn’t seem to have that much to actually say. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think the lesson here is that too many inspirational songs without actual inspiration leads to a somewhat forgettable album.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Hopefully this is more of a transitional album than an indication as to her musical direction on <i>Hurts 2B Human</i>.</div>
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Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-9966689372370620642019-02-14T10:41:00.000-05:002019-02-14T10:41:20.895-05:00Do we want equality at the Grammys or not?I actually watched the Grammys this year. I was a fan back in 1999 and 2000, when I was still pretty young.<br />
<br />
Then I saw Faith Hill's awful performance (in 2002 maybe?) and realized a lot of these performers weren't very good at singing live.<br />
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I also started noticing that none of my favorites ever won.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwIVc61-ytp3DvfObpJahSsOYKwWdynldoeHzr0qg4gN71cUVLq5Sf82BqCJEs1eRCgQ9wxM1uLdvmTvBPCvrY1kTZZJCqkOq0V8tmHi3EAs3IwEEQEio_zp3lDkH_70HCQjazLvObP0p/s1600/grammys+norah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1255" data-original-width="1240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuwIVc61-ytp3DvfObpJahSsOYKwWdynldoeHzr0qg4gN71cUVLq5Sf82BqCJEs1eRCgQ9wxM1uLdvmTvBPCvrY1kTZZJCqkOq0V8tmHi3EAs3IwEEQEio_zp3lDkH_70HCQjazLvObP0p/s320/grammys+norah.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
<b>Pink</b> didn't Best Pop Vocal Album in 2001. <b>Norah Jones</b> did. <b>Matchbox 20</b> was nominated in 2001 for Best Rock Album, but they didn't win. <b>Foo Fighters</b> did.<br />
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<b>Kesha </b>didn't win Best Pop Vocal Album in 2018. <b>Ed Sheeran</b> did. <b>Daughtry</b> didn't win Best Rock Album in 2008. <b>Foo Fighters</b> did.<br />
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<b>Fall Out Boy</b> and <b>Panic! at the Disco</b> didn't win Grammys in 2019 and 2017 for Best Rock Album. Those awards went to <b>Greta Van Fleet</b> (who?) and <b>Cage the Elephant</b> (again, who?).<br />
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You probably get the picture by those few examples.<br />
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There are always a handful of performances that are fun each year --- especially the unexpected team-ups that nobody saw coming.<br />
<br />
<b>Pink</b> and <b>Sarah McLachlan</b> singing 'Angel' a few years ago was random, but very cool. <b>Elton John</b> and <b>Lady Gaga</b> teaming up a few years ago made a lot of sense. The award portions of the show though?<br />
<br />
It seems like the <b>Grammy Awards</b> were worse than <b>WWE</b>, always trying to push who they wanted to push instead of letting the public take to people naturally.<br />
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<b>Norah Jones</b> was a project of theirs. <b>Joss Stone</b> was a project of theirs. Now <b>H.E.R.</b> and <b>Brandi Carlile</b> seem to be the pet projects.<br />
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Those four ladies are all talented, so why push an agenda when it comes to them? Let them achieve success as it comes. No need to force it down anyone's throat.<br />
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I like the <b>Foo Fighters</b>, but 4 Best Rock Album wins since 2001?<br />
<br />
That's excessive, especially considering they beat out the likes of <b>Bon Jovi</b> (<i>Crush</i>), <b>Matchbox 20</b> (<i>Mad Season</i>), <b>No Doubt</b> (<i>Return of Saturn</i>), <b>Evanescence</b> (<i>Fallen</i>), <b>Matchbox 20</b> (<i>More Than You Think You Are</i>), <b>Nickelback</b> (<i>The Long Road</i>), <b>Daughtry</b> (<i>Daughtry</i>) and <b>Kings of Leon</b> (<i>Come Around Sundown</i>) for those awards.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrc7itOJs4NOfN7XOIUUGPq8FaMUnckYiRB6t3hlIm9B3RiAo6cuC8Q0-2cNUYt9m6dSkes82KWjYbm0nmKLFgWoGK3a4xAMGYRtsZCr2_PW9mRk8LZGAGZAoj9jW62yxnMId7sLng_H-/s1600/Grammys3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="627" data-original-width="749" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPrc7itOJs4NOfN7XOIUUGPq8FaMUnckYiRB6t3hlIm9B3RiAo6cuC8Q0-2cNUYt9m6dSkes82KWjYbm0nmKLFgWoGK3a4xAMGYRtsZCr2_PW9mRk8LZGAGZAoj9jW62yxnMId7sLng_H-/s320/Grammys3.jpg" width="320" /></a>If that's not playing favorites, I'm not sure what is. They're a good band, but I have almost no doubt that they won because those in charge feel that the Foo Fighters give the Grammys more credibility since they're not as 'mainstream' as the other nominees.<br />
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'Pop' and 'mainstream' have always been dirty words at these awards shows. <br />
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Those mainstream projects are what make the music and movie industries money, but they can't honor them at awards shows because we, as fans, certainly don't appreciate the creativity and artwork of movies and music the way those in charge do ... right?<br />
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<h3>
<b><u>The lack of diversity</u></b></h3>
Over the past decade or so there has been growing opposition to the lack of diversity with the Grammy nominations.<br />
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There aren't enough minorities (black people, Hispanic people and LGBTQ people) being nominated and winning awards.<br />
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I guess you can throw females into that group because there were all kinds of stories previwing the Grammys this year, talking about it being 'a girl's night.'<br />
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After the awards show ended there were immediately tweets and articles put out by <b>USA Today</b>, <b>Time Magazine</b>, etc., etc. talking about the 'women who ruled the Grammys.'<br />
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People were also happy to see that <b>Childish Gambino</b> won several awards.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPw-K-elhJWG9058WkuCmN54t48YORTlYQPKgoLwi5ZCD9A43EFMuxFjHbvv0aCsw0J0O7EJT7j9MGnzgIvRR6g0fa-ULUJUexOu1g18ZCT-wv2hrfl8E6zGogwy-eTw8rKVLfF9q5Yh6/s1600/grammys1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="975" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJPw-K-elhJWG9058WkuCmN54t48YORTlYQPKgoLwi5ZCD9A43EFMuxFjHbvv0aCsw0J0O7EJT7j9MGnzgIvRR6g0fa-ULUJUexOu1g18ZCT-wv2hrfl8E6zGogwy-eTw8rKVLfF9q5Yh6/s320/grammys1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Yet, people seemed upset that <b>Kacey Musgraves</b> (a white, dark-haired country singer) won the award for Album of the Year.<br />
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She was up against <b>Cardi B</b> (I don't see much talent there), <b>Drake</b>, <b>H.E.R.</b> (who?), <b>Post Malone</b> (couldn't name a song of his if you paid me), <b>Janelle Monae</b> (she's good) and <b>Brandi Carlile</b> (who?).<br />
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She's a woman, but she's not a woman of color, so I guess that's why people were upset.<br />
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You see, people don't seem to actually want equality.<br />
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They want dominance.<br />
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They want minorities to dominate all the categories.<br />
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I understand why some people feel that way. They are tired of it being 2019 and being the 'first time an African-American (insert achievement here).'<br />
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Actually, I think most people actually feel that way whenever the topic comes up about being the first. The problem is that some people don't want it to be about race at all and some people want it all to be about race.<br />
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Some want a minority in every single nomination category and a minority win for every single achievement there is. There was a time when people of color and/or minorities didn't get the shine they deserved, so now people want to make up for that as though the Grammy awards were reparations.<br />
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The Grammy Awards are catering to those people due to all of the recent criticism.<br />
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Isn't that the opposite of equality though?<br />
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<b><u>The Grammys still play favorites</u></b></h3>
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<b>Dua Lipa</b> won Best New Artist at the 2019 Grammys over <b>Luke Combs</b>. I think that was a mistake. Combs is an immensely talented artist. I prefer him over anyone else in that category. He really didn't stand a chance given that this was 'the year of the woman.'<br />
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<b>Shawn Mendes</b> (<i>Shawn Mendes</i>), <b>Taylor Swift</b> (<i>Reputation</i>), <b>Pink</b> (<i>Beautiful Trauma</i>) and <b>Kelly Clarkson</b> (<i>Meaning of Life</i>) were all up for Best Pop Vocal Album, but <b>Ariana Grande</b> won ... because she's the 'it girl' right now.<br />
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<b>Kacey Musgraves</b> is actually another project. The Grammys gave her several awards this year, despite the fact that her songs weren't even really played that much on country radio, let alone top 40 radio.<br />
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Country stars often get snubbed at the Grammy awards because they don't fall in line with the agenda that the Grammys try to push, so it's nice to see a country artist win the biggest award of the night.<br />
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But Musgraves won because she's a project. They like her album because it deals with inclusivity and love and hope (etc., etc.). They probably appreciated it even more because she is a country artist who is bucking the system because country music is only supposed to be about tailgates and pickup trucks and jean shorts ... right?<br />
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It's a shame that there are excessive nominations and clear favorites at these award shows because so many people end up getting overlooked regardless of their race or gender.<br />
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<h3>
<u>Where do we go from here?</u></h3>
When society gets to the point of giving awards to people you want to be successful and/or because they represent a minority that was underrepresented in the past, it takes away the meaning of the awards in the first place.<br />
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There may have been deserving artists who didn't get the recognition and accolades they deserved in the past. That may have been due to those artists being minorities. That is, no doubt, a shame.<br />
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The awards were always supposed to be given to the best though, right? Even if that's not what always happened, that's what they are supposed to represent, right?<br />
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How do we get to that point?<br />
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That's a tough road to navigate.<br />
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'The best' is subjective term. It always will be.<br />
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Even though I didn't agree with a lot of the wins over the years, there is a case to be made for most of the people mentioned above winning any of those awards.<br />
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I think we have to get past the agendas and focusing on minorities when looking at nominations. We have to get to the point where the awards truly do represent 'the best' and doesn't cater to people who have agendas.<br />
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Right now, the Grammys Awards are going one foot forward and going two steps back.<br />
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They're giving awards to more minorities, so that's good. Minorities don't struggle to have success in the music and movie industries the way they used to. That's also good.<br />
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But when there are clear pet projects, agenda-pushing and excessive nominations (did Lady Gaga really deserve 5 nominations this year? or did they want her to have 5 nominations this year?), the Grammys don't end up being any better than they were in the past.<br />
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It's the same old story told in a different way.Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-35969090691007845342019-01-24T12:29:00.004-05:002019-01-24T12:29:41.470-05:00The weight of our words and the consequences that come with themThe conversation about the <b>MAGA hat teens</b> / <b>Nathan Phillips</b> / <b>the Black Hebrew Israelites</b> continues to spark debate in our national dialogue.<br>
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I guess that means another blog post on my part.<br>
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Now that Phillips has given about a dozen interviews and the teen spoke on TODAY, I think it should die down. Sure, the memes will still survive, but by the Super Bowl, it will be in the rear view. Hopefully the government shutdown will be over by then and there will be other things to talk about.<br>
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This entire situation morphed into several other debates, however, so the fallout keeps generating talk this week.<br>
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<b>The clothing we wear:</b><br>
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I don't own a MAGA hat, I don't want to own a MAGA hat and I don't want to wear a MAGA hat. That being said, if someone wants to wear one, it's his or her right to do so.<br>
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cm80MKn_ZQ8"><b>Trevor Noah</b> weighed in</a> on the hat situation and said, essentially, that they know what MAGA hat has come to symbolize, so they shouldn't be wearing it.<br>
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Isn't that the opposite of the argument we use for sexual harassment and rape victims?<br>
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'She was wearing skimpy clothing, so she wanted to have a good time.' That's what people use as an excuse and we don't let that slide. Why does it get a 'pass' in this instance.<br>
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I've also seen people bring up Trayvon Martin and how people said, 'Well, you shouldn't wear a hoodie if you don't want to look suspicious.' I do remember seeing some people express that viewpoint on social media.<br>
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People also call anyone who wears their pants near the ground are 'thugs.'<br>
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Number 1) wearing a skimpy outfit doesn't mean you deserve to be raped<br>
Number 2) Trayvon Martin wearing a hoodie obviously doesn't justify being shot<br>
Number 3) the MAGA teens shouldn't have been aggressively confronted by adults because of the hats they were wearing<br>
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<b>The consequences we reap:</b><br>
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Now that I've said those things, there does come some responsibility and consequences with wearing anything.<br>
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That's a reality of life.<br>
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Wearing anything that makes you stand out will make you ... stand out.<br>
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Skimpy clothing will attract attention. Wearing a hoodie may make you look suspicious. Wearing a pro-Trump hat may get you a face-to-face confrontation with an angry anti-Trumper.<br>
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The consequence in making a political or cultural statement by wearing a pink pussy hat or a red MAGA hat is that people who disagree with our viewpoint (statement) may be upset with you.<br>
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They may (but shouldn't) judge you for wearing that MAGA hat. They may project every negative feeling they have about Trump onto you, just as those who see a woman in a short skirt assume she's looking to get some.<br>
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<b>The responsibilities we have:</b><br>
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The responsibility that we have when seeing someone dressed in a way we don't agree with is not to antagonize that person.<br>
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I wouldn't wear an <b>Obama</b> shirt to a Trump rally. I wouldn't wear a MAGA hat to the Democratic National Convention. I wouldn't wear a shirt with a middle finger on it into a grade school.<br>
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That's just common courtesy, something a lot of people don't exercise while exercising their free speech.<br>
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<a href="http://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-weight-of-our-words-and.html#more">Read more »</a>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8924403587164164044.post-89580956551655732022019-01-21T18:50:00.003-05:002019-01-21T18:51:11.650-05:00What happened with Covington Catholic / Nathan Phillips / House of Israel D.C.?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hate to post all these more serious blogs over the past few months (I much prefer comic book talk), but it seems that’s how society is right now. That’s how I am too, I guess.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It’s a constant political / economical / racial thought process because that’s what is plastered all over Twitter and in the media.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This weekend was different though. It was really an eye-opener for me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I know that the people of the U.S. are divided on many issues. Most people I know (of all races, genders and backgrounds) tend to continue on with daily life. Entertainment and sports sometimes take focus and can kind of tuck away the differences we have. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When everyone is talking about a football game or a UFC fight or which movie will get an Oscar, it’s easy to forget the vast difference of opinions we have and how two people can view the same situation entirely different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I saw a video on Saturday that went viral. The headlines read something like this: 'On Friday, during the Indigenous Peoples March, a group of Make America Great Again hat-wearing white Catholic teenagers surrounded a Vietnam war veteran / indigenous man while he was beating his drum and singing a Native prayer.'</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, basically, a MAGA hat-wearing punk confronted the man, stared him down and wouldn’t move out of his way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I clicked on a Tweeted cell video that included a short interview with the man --- <b>Nathan Phillips</b> --- taken the evening this unfolded. He heard singing and chants of ‘Build That Wall.’ He went on to talk emotionally (wiping tears from his eyes at times) talk about the state of the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I didn’t necessarily think much of it because: <b>A)</b> when isn’t there some kind of confrontation in the news? <b>B)</b> I know to take all news with a grain of salt and <b>C)</b> there’s no direct impact on my life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That’s not to say that people aren’t impacted by things that don’t directly involve them. There’s always something you can take away from a situation, especially if you take a few moments to empathize and reflect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I carried a few thoughts about respect and cultural tension away with me when I clicked away from the tweet that described the situation in 160 characters or less. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Mostly, I was disheartened that people couldn't converse with each other without confrontation during the various marches that happen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But I continued on with my day (my laundry wasn’t going to take care of itself).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Later that evening, I was on <b>YouTube</b> and saw a couple of 2 or 3-minute cell phone videos that showed different angles of what happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">From the video I saw, Nathan Phillips wasn’t surrounded by the students with the goal of impeding his way to the top of the <b>Lincoln Memorial</b> stairs. He walked towards the group of high school students to begin with. That didn't match a previous article that I read, but I didn't think much of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then I saw another video. This video was a close-up of what happened (you can watch it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7z3A9WmdUBw">here</a>), while also providing a different angle. From this video, Nathan Phillips approached a teen (at 00:23) while playing his drum and then (at approximately 00:46), he approached the now infamous man in the red hat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p> </o:p> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was confused because I wasn’t seeing the same thing that a bunch of tweets (enough to make it a trending topic on Saturday) indicated.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I read multiple articles about it, watched a <b>CNN</b> interview with Nathan Phillips and saw a tweet from <b>WKRC reporter Adam Clements</b>. The tweet from Clements included a response from a student who was there at the Lincoln Memorial.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The story that was coming from one side wasn’t adding up with the story coming from the other side. The headlines and tweets weren’t matching the video I saw. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finally, I saw a video posted to YouTube that showed 1:46:18 worth of what happened (you can watch it <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3EC1_gcr34">here</a>). The video was shot by <b>House of Israel D.C.</b> member <b>Shar Yaqataz Banyamyan</b>. He apparently pulled it from social media, but not before someone else grabbed it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, I grabbed as much of the available cell phone footage of the incident that I could and put together a YouTube video: <span style="color: #353535;"><a href="https://youtu.be/WzJU1L-1VrE">What happened with the Covington Catholic / Nathan Phillips situation?</a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">On Sunday, Indian Country Today posted 4 videos to their Vimeo Channel (</span></o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://vimeo.com/312330750">Part 1</a>, <a href="https://vimeo.com/312332730">Part 2</a>, <a href="https://vimeo.com/312411257">Part 3</a>, <a href="https://vimeo.com/312374574">Part 4</a>), so you can take a look at those to evaluate the situation further.</span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br></span></o:p></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here’s my analysis of what happened:</span></u></b></div>
<a href="http://batsonsblog.blogspot.com/2019/01/i-hate-to-post-all-these-more-serious.html#more">Read more »</a>Batsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01093061040301329105noreply@blogger.com0