Sunday, August 21, 2011

Professional Idiot: A Memoir Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Professional Idiot: A Memoir Book Review

About the Book: Fame can be addictive. From his early days videotaping crazy skateboard stunts to starring in the blockbuster Jackass franchise, there was little that Stephen "Steve-O" Glover wouldn't do for attention. Whether it was stapling his nutsack to his leg, diving into a pool full of elephant crap, or routinely risking death invading the private lives of sharks, lions, tigers, and bears, almost nothing was out of bounds. As the stunts got crazier, his life kept pace. He developed a crippling addiction to drugs and alcohol, and an obsession with his own celebrity that proved nearly as dangerous. 

Steve-O has been a man in search of a spotlight practically since birth. Growing up all over the world, thanks to his father's career as a corporate executive, he was the kid who'd drink handfuls of salt in order to make friends. After he stole a video camera from his dad as a teenager, his future path was more or less sealed. Footage of himself skateboarding soon gave way to footage of himself setting his hair on fire or doing back flips off apartment buildings into shallow pools. After detours to several hospitals, a couple of jails, and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College, he landed, quite naturally, on MTV's Jackass, in 2000. He took to fame like it was the very thing missing from his life, but it was never enough. He filled the void with booze and drugs, and soon began treating his entire life like it was one big--and supremely risky--stunt.
In 2008, Steve-O holed up in his West Hollywood apartment, where he drank, snorted, smoked, huffed, and swallowed drugs around the clock--and began broadcasting his downward spiral on the Internet. Finally, his Jackass comrade Johnny Knoxville and seven other friends staged an intervention and forced him into a psychiatric ward against his will, ultimately saving his life. Today he has been clean and sober for more than three years.

Professional Idiot recounts the lunacy, the debauchery, the stunts, the drug addiction and the path to recovery and redemption with the same bravado and humor that have endeared Steve-O to so many. Hilarious, harrowing, and inspiring all at once, Professional Idiot will entertain those who've been with him on his many wild rides, as well as surprise and intrigue those who know him only as the guy willing to do anything--no matter how painful--for a laugh.


Our Take: We LOVE Jackass here at the Legion.  We live and breathe it, so when I heard on the Howard Stern show on Sirius Satellite Radio that he had written his memoir, I knew we'd have to get ahold of it!  Steve-O is one of the main players in the most fantastic and out of control troop of ill-advised stuntmen in history.  He has brought us so many hours of joy, and yet his life has been such turmoil.  We watched as they documented his battle with sobriety and the intervention done by some of the Jackass crew a few years ago..all the way to his newly sober triumphant return in Jackass 3D and Jackass 3.5.  This book covers Steve's life and is a must-have for any true Jackass fan.  We miss you Dunn.

How to Buy: Amazon.com

Alan Moore: Storyteller Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Alan Moore: Storyteller Book Review

About the Book: The definitive book on Alan Moore, renowned as one of the most important talents in contemporary comics and graphic novels, and his trailblazing works of visual storytelling. Alan Moore is one of the most important creative forces in the history of comics. His innovative works, which include V for Vendetta, Watchmen, and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, have become enduring features of the modern cultural landscape, inspiring countless artists, from writers and illustrators to graphic novelists and filmmakers. Moore has won more awards and prizes than can be named—including nine Eisners, seven Harveys, multiple Jack Kirby awards, and the only Hugo ever awarded for work on a comic. Drawing on new and unpublished interviews, as well as rarely seen art and photos, this is the first book on his work to have Moore’s cooperation and support, making it a must-have for his many fans and for anyone interested in the art of visual storytelling. Alan Moore: Storyteller is a survey of his expansive work, from his high-profile best sellers to rarely seen experimental projects, such as spoken word and performance art. Individual works are richly illustrated from Moore’s personal archives and paired with critical context. An audio CD will feature excerpts from some of Moore’s multimedia performances and songs, making this the Alan Moore handbook: a must-have for his many comic-book fans and anyone interested in the art of visual storytelling.

Our Take: We're big comic book nerds here at the Legion.  And as such, we're VERY critical of anything comic book related.  This new book spans the career of prolific and popular 'underground' comic books superstar Alan Moore.  His major accomplishments include 'Watchmen', 'V for Vendetta' and more.  I'm a fan of about half his work, especially 
'V for Vendetta', but my favorite book that he worked on was Batman: The Killing Joke.  The Killing Joke changed the way I looked at Batman comics forever.  For a lot of people it was Frank Miller, but Moore's dark and twisted take on the Batman Universe and the relationship of the Batman and Joker really pushed my perceptions of what comic book storytelling could be.  This hardcover book is very cool, its full of color images and TONS of information on Moore's career.  Its a great book for any fan and anyone interested in comic book history. 

How to Buy: Amazon.com

Saturday, August 20, 2011

Dr Horrible's Sing-Along Blog Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Dr Horrible's Sing-Along Blog Book Review

About the Book: Joss Whedon’s Emmy award-winning musical tragicomedy tells the story of Billy, aka Dr Horrible, a budding supervillain who wants to beat superhero Captain Hammer and take over the world... and pluck up the courage to speak to his laundromat crush Penny. With exclusive new material from Joss and the production team, new photos, sheet music and more, this official book is a must for fans!

Our Take: I'm not a big Joss Whedon fan.  I know..its nerd blasphemy, but I just don't "get" his stuff.  A friend of ours convinced us a few years back to sit down at watch Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog.  I went into it very skeptical, but I came out a raving and frothing fanboy!  Nathan Filion is amazing and Neil Patrick Harris is a god.  This new book is the ultimate collector's item for any fan of the film!  Its not only the shooting script, but also the sheet music and loads of behind the scenes interviews, tidbits and pics!  This one is a MUST have.

How to Buy: Amazon.com

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Superheroes V. Supervillains: A - Z Book Review!

Click the above title to read more...

Superheroes V. Supervillains: A - Z Book Review!

About the Book: A is for...Angel. Warren Kenneth Worthington III is a comic book anti-hero in the Marvel Comics universe. Originally known as the Angel and later Archangel, Worthington is one of the founding members of the X-Men. B is for...Batman. Created by the artist Bob Kane and writer Bill Finger he is comic book superhero. Batman first appeared in Detective Comics in 1939, and since then has appeared in many of DC Comics' publications. Originally referred to as "the Batman", he is additionally known as "The Caped Crusader", "The Dark Knight", "The Darknight Detective" and "The World's Greatest Detective". C is for ...Captain Marvel. Monica Rambeau is a superheroine in the Marvel Comics universe. Initially known as Captain Marvel, the character became a member of the Avengers and served for a time as their leader. She later used the codenames Photon and Pulsar after another Captain Marvel Surfaced.

Our Take: We have a great respect for the written word here at the Legion.  I've never authored a book myself, and thats not due to a lack of material or ideas, but when I undertake a Batman guide I'm going to ensure that its complete and does justice to the legacy of the character.  I will run my facts by several other fans to ensure that I didn't miss something, because I'm not so arrogant as to assume that I know it all.  It appears that the author of this book, Sarah Oliver, didn't run this book by anyone..even an editor.  This author pumps out A-Z guides on such subjects as Taylor Lautner, Justin Bieber and Glee.  I say stick to your vapid subject matter and leave the comic book universe alone.  Its not something an amateur can just breeze by using IMDB.

I will start with whats wrong...where do I begin?  First of all, this isn't an A to Z guide of superheroes and villains...its an A to Z guide of their movie and live action TV appearances.  There are no animation credits listed for major characters like Batman...but in a fit of inconsistancy with organization there is for some other characters. 

The appearance listings for Batman list all of his films, including the 1966 feature, although not his appearance on the Birds Of Prey pilot.  In another great contradiction, Catwoman's appearances do not list the 1966 film, of which she was one of the main villains.  Oh, and of the other villains in the film how many have the 1966 film in their credits?  NONE!  Seriously?!  I could go on and on...I mean there is no listing for Robin in this book, but she lists Barbara Wilson, the Batgirl in the feature film travesty Batman & Robin?!  No Batgirl from Birds of Prey either.  Way to go.

The writing is juvenille at best.  It reads like a junior high book report.  'This is Batman.  Batman has a cape.  Batman is called the Dark Knight' and so forth.  Its really disturbing to think that this person has written a so-called Superhero book and some poor kid or fan may actually spend money on this!  

I usually try to find the good in things, but this book just enraged me.  The ONE cool thing about it is that it starts with the heroes and to see the villain listings you have to flip it over.  Design-wise it was a win...its just that the content is complete nonsense.  Thanks for giving me a glorified (and rather inaccurate and inconsistant) IMDB listing in print.

Monday, August 15, 2011

RMS Titanic Manual: 1909-1912 Olympic Class Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

RMS Titanic Manual: 1909-1912 Olympic Class (Haynes Owners Workshop Manuals

About the Book: The world famous ocean liner Titanic, which sank on her maiden voyage in 1912, is the latest subject to receive the Haynes Manual treatment. With an authoritative text and hundreds of illustrations, see how this leviathan was built, launched, and fitted out. Read about her lavish passenger accommodation. Learn about the captain’s responsibilities, including the operation of a transatlantic liner. Consider the chief engineer’s view—how did he manage the huge engines and other onboard systems? What was it like to operate the luxury ocean liner from the perspective of Titanic’s owner, the White Star line?

Our Take: The Titanic became a source of obsession after the infamous 1997 James Cameron motion picture.  My wife and I were obsessed with it long before that..in fact since we were kids growing up in the 1980s.  This new hardcover book really plays into our obsession.  It begins with some great history and fantastic photographs of the ship and voyage and continues on to delve into the construction and insides of the ship in some depth.  This book is a fantastic and unique look at the most infamous ship of all-time and is a fantastic addition to any Titanic enthusiast's collection.

How to Buy: Amazon.com

Mustang Genesis: The Creation of the Pony Car Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Mustang Genesis: The Creation of the Pony Car

About the Book: When Lee Iacoca brought his Fairlane Committee together in 1962 to explore the possibilities of a new kind of car for young, forward-thinking families, no one could have predicted quite how successful this car would eventually be. Finding a styling void in the swiftly growing baby boomer market, Ford hit a marketing bullseye with the Mustang—a four-seat, sporty "pony car" perfect for the times. In the first two years of its production, more than a million Mustangs were built—redefining the Ford brand and becoming the company's most popular car since the Model T. Based on extensive research and interviews with Mustang team members, including Lee Iacocca, management and factory employees, this book tells the fascinating story of how a clandestine group at Ford created one of the most iconic car designs in history.

Our Take: Our family has been Mustang enthusiasts since day one!  We all drive 'em and we all love 'em.  Heck, my father in law even has a fantastic vintage Shelby Cobra.  This new hardcover book, Mustang Genesis: The Creation of the Pony Car, is a fantastic look into the genesis and history behind the creation of the world's coolest cars!  The pictoral history is informative and dynamic.  Its without a doubt the definitive look into Ford's greatest design!

How to Buy: Amazon.com

War, Politics and Superheroes: Ethics and Propaganda in Comics and Film Book Review

Click the above title to read more...


War, Politics and Superheroes: Ethics and Propaganda in Comics and Film Book Review

About the Book: Superhero adventure comics have a long history of commenting upon American public opinion and government policy, and the surge in the popularity of comics since the events of September 11, 2001, ensures their continued relevance. This critical text examines the seventy-year history of comic book superheroes on film and in comic books and their reflections of the politics of their time. Superheroes addressed include Batman, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, Superman, the Fantastic Four and the X-Men, and topics covered include American wars, conflicts, and public policy.

Our Take: When I first picked-up this title I wasn't sure what I'd find.  I'm a lifelong comic book fan...ok obsessed nut, lol.  There isn't a comic book film or cartoon I haven't seen and I'm familiar with most all major and even minor characters.  This book takes a very thoughtful approach into the realm of comic books to reflect on the archetypes and politics within the stories.  Some might say that this was looking a bit too in-depth into something that is intended for fun, but I disagree.  This book examines the real world influence on the vast storytelling that has gone into these characters for decades.  The respect given to this world was refreshing.  This book is an A+!

How to Buy: Amazon.com

About the publisher: www.Mcfarlandpub.com / Order line: 1-800-253-2187

Elizabeth I in Film and Television: A Study of the Major Portrayals Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Elizabeth I in Film and Television: A Study of the Major Portrayals Book Review

About the Book: This analysis of how filmmakers have portrayed England's Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603), and the audience's perception of Elizabeth based upon these portrayals, examines key representations of the Tudor monarch in various motion pictures from the Silent era on and in television miniseries. Actresses who have portrayed Elizabeth include Bette Davis, Glenda Jackson, Judi Dench, Cate Blanchett and Helen Mirren; Quentin Crisp appeared as the Queen in Orlando (1992). The text focuses on the historical context of the period in which each film or miniseries was made and1the extent of the portrayals of Elizabeth.

Our Take: My wife is a HUGE fan of the history of the British monarchy...especially Elizabeth I.  It could be that she is distantly related..or just that she was the most infamous and dynamic queens of all-time!  This great book delves into her many portrayls by various actresses over time.  Its a wonderful reference guide and the cover even includes our personal favorite portrayl by Dame Judy Dench.   This is over 270 pages of fantastic information.  A must have for any fan of the late queen!

How to Buy: Amazon.com

About the publisher: www.Mcfarlandpub.com / Order line: 1-800-253-2187

The American Martial Arts Film Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

The American Martial Arts Film Book Review

About the Book: Martial arts have appeared in American movies since the days of Mr. Moto and Charlie Chan, but English-language martial arts films as a genre did not develop until the 1970s, with the breakthrough success of Bruce Lee’s Enter the Dragon. They’ve since proliferated enormously, encompassing every level of filmmaking quality, employing every martial arts system known, and spawning a cadre of action superstars known for their ability to kick butt more than for their talent as actors. Low budgets, straight-to-video releases, and a lack of critical respect have not lessened their influence, and they remain hugely popular and continue to inform the work of the leading lights of American cinema, from Coppola to Stone to Tarantino. 
This history of American martial arts films, from major features to direct-to-video releases, examines English-language martial arts films in terms of both their historical development and their critical relevance. The first section describes the most common martial arts techniques, the history of martial arts in America, and gives a global overview of the history of martial arts films. Heavily illustrated chapters discuss early trend-setting movies, the first appearances of martial arts in American movies; the influence of Chinese kung fu film imports; martial arts on television and the films’ proliferation; the explosive growth of the genre in the 80s; and recent releases, trends, and the direction of English-language martial arts movies. There is a selected filmography of 300 movies.
 
Review: I grew up watching martial arts films.  I watched them daily and was quite obsessed.  In fact, they haven't listed a film in this new book, 'The American Martial Arts Film', that I haven't seen.  This book is a great reference guide that delves into brief looks into the genre, focusing on the heyday, which was the 1980s-90s.  This is a great read and a fun look back!  The book also features a cool filmography at the end, which serves as a great 'what to watch' guide!   This one is a must for any martial arts film fan.

How to Buy: Amazon.com

About the publisher: www.Mcfarlandpub.com / Order line: 1-800-253-2187

Survive the Bomb: The Radioactive Citizen's Guide to Nuclear Survival Book Review

Click the above title to read more...

Survive the Bomb: The Radioactive Citizen's Guide to Nuclear Survival Book Review

About the Book: Attention, citizens and fellow travelers of the Cold War: Survive the Bomb is your family’s ultimate fallout shelter companion. Keep this book at the ready next to the emergency drinking water and vacuum-packed canned meats and vegetables for that moment when the saber-rattling between the world’s superpowers turns Atomic.


Be alert and be prepared. Don’t let a little thing like an atomic particle spoil your day

Our Take: This is one of the coolest books we've come across for some time!  Its a nice little hardcover book full of information and re-prints from the cold war era.  This one re-prints a lot of vintage documents and pamphlets about a possible nuclear fallout.  The book was put together by a cold war historian and it serves as a fantastic reminder of our nation's past....plus, its just so much fun to read!  Anyone interested in history and culture needs this book.

Here are all the tips and information you’ll need to keep your family safe and secure:

·A convenient set of Civil Defense carrying cards for your wallet or purse

·Steps for the home handyman toward building a well-furnished fallout shelter

·How to convert your home’s snack bar into a cozy secondary shelter

·A checklist of items you’ll need close at hand while awaiting the “all-clear” message from local  authorities

·An Operation Survival! comic, including a crossword puzzle and quiz for the kids

·Revealing studies, reports, and recommendations to the United States Congress and President

·Wargame scenarios, aftermath descriptions, and casualty estimates at various distances from a nuclear blast

·An introduction and commentaries by Cold War historian Eric G. Swedin

How to Buy: Amazon.com
 

BookLegion.com Copyright © 2009-2013 The Legion Fan Network. DVD Legion is your home for DVD Reviews, Blu-Ray Reviews, DVD News and Blu-Ray News.
Visit the other sites in our network Legions of Gotham, Toy Legion, Ghostbusters Collector and Toy Story/Pixar Collector