"24 Things Going Right For FF2"

[Lightning Strykez!]

20 Things Going Right For FF2!​

Subject: Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer
Release Date: June 15, 2007
Essay Written By: Lightning Strykez​

Well, it’s 2007 and once again it’s time for my Annual “Things Going Right” List. For those who have joined the Hype in recent months, since 2004, I've been publishing articles that highlight at least 20 PEOPLE, PLACES and THINGS working in favor of some of Marvel's feature films. This year I plan to expand that focus to other interesting productions that have caught my eye i.e. Warner Brother's The Dark Knight, and of course Iron Man and Hulk. But for now readers, let's take a look at the cosmically-fueled adventure Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer starring Jessica Alba, Michael Chiklis, Ioan Gruffudd, Chris Evans, Julian McMahon and Lawrence Fishburne. Please keep in mind that these factors are not listed in any particular order and are purely the opinion of the author and not representative of Superherohype.com.

1. "Invisible Barbie Doll"

I know many voiced misgivings when the first photos of Susan Richards' new look for this movie surfaced. But frankly, I have grown to love it (in 95% of the scenes I've seen anyway), and I appreciate the reasoning behind the "change" too. See, in FF1 Sue was very much "the Invisible Girl"--squawking at her little brother, whining quite a bit and a few other things that didn't exactly scream "I am Woman." Interestingly enough, the actress Jessica Alba carries herself in the exact opposite fashion off-camera--she's extremely sophisticated and articulate in all the interviews I've seen. So this new 'do is clearly an effort to mature the actress' character--after all she is about to become Mrs. Richards and she needs to look the part. I can only pray that her lines in this film will match her physically mature costuming. And although I'd recommend thinning the wig out just a tad for FF3 (does anyone's hair really grow that thick?), I think the lighter blonde tresses are a helluva lot closer to the comics than FF1's strawberry blonde/red treatment. It also plays up the fact that, like neighborhood dork Peter Parker, uber-geek Reed Richards has got himself a hottie for a wifey.

2. "A Castle On The Hillside"

One of the fans' biggest gripes from the first film was the treatment of Dr. Doom. Some felt that not too few elements were missing from the character. So far, FOX has been pretty mum about the Good Doctor, his new look, and his level of involvement in FF2. Even the new trailer only shows him in a mysteriously obscure manner. While some of us have seen 2 of the rumored 4 looks Dr. Doom will take on, one of the things that thrills this FF fan even more is the arrival of the Monarch's Latverian Castle. Yep, we can finally look forward to Dr. Doom scheming his worst from a hidden location unbeknownst to the Four. From what we've heard, it's going to be grand, and if the photo of its lobby (shown above) is any indication, I'd say they're making steps in the right direction. Could all of these nuances possibly make us forgive AND forget "Mr. Marco Polo" from the first installment?

Okay, okay....maybe just forget.

3. Return Of The Ott​

One of the most positive things I'm looking forward to with FF2 is the return of the original film's composer John Ottman. I like consistency in franchises like this, and I've always enjoyed Ottman's work on films like X2: X-Men United and Superman Returns. Sadly, his brilliant FF1 score was chopped and mangled so badly during editing that its value was lost in the mix. I'm hoping this will be rectified in this sequel because the man comes up with some of the best motifs. Gauging from his interviews, he sounds pretty excited to get the chance to build on what he started before--a first for him. In fact, aside from the critically-acclaimed Spider-Man series, I think this might be the first major Marvel franchise to use the same signature theme music twice in a row. Let's hope that whatever John wants to do for the film's opening sequence won't be wrecked this time by the powers-that-be. Let it breathe!

4. Rise Of The Silver Surfer​

He is regarded as one of the most beloved characters in Marvel's staple. The enigmatic herald of Galactus has long been expected to arrive on the silver screen, so I'm glad to see him being introduced in this sequel--which in itself pays homage to the source material. From the looks of the trailers, Doug Jones has done brilliant work in bringing the celestial sky-rider to life physically, and I'm hoping that there is a good chemistry between him and Susan Storm (Jessica Alba). In my opinion, the debut of the Surfer is what single-handedly reinvigorated interest in this sequel for a lot of people, and the faithful rendering of the character certainly won't hurt reception among fans.

5. An Oscar-Calibre Addition​

I was thrilled when I heard the news that Academy Award nominated actor Laurence Fishburne would lend his vocal talents to the Silver Surfer character. Since he's a well-respected A-Lister with gravitas to match, Fishburne's addition to the cast should do a lot to raise awareness of the film, and perhaps even garner some respect from media critics who have been hard on the franchise due to its lack of "big names". Plus, we all know how sweet Morpheus sounded in the Matrix films, so I'm really excited to see what Laurence will bring to the table for Norrin Radd.

6."Been Around The World Ay yi yi"​

The global scope of FF2's storyline should be a big plus for audiences this summer. The first film lacked this international flava, resulting in what some considered to be a "TV sitcom" feel.This time, the quartet will literally be zipping all over the planet--from various locations in the United States, to the UK, to Shanghai and beyond. Again, this is an ode to the comics, since the FF are not really crime fighters per se. Rather, they are renouned adventurers, scientists and imaginauts that are never in the same place longer than a few moments. And although we haven't been treated to an entrance to the Negative Zone just yet, it'll be great to see a comic book film that deliberately embraces the mobile nature of its heroes--especially ones that are explorers.

7. Perfect Timing? ​

The June 15th release date came as a result of the production being moved from the much-coveted July 4th weekend. Personally, I think this was a mistake because from what I've heard of Michael Bay's Transformers treatment, I don't think this film would have been "crushed" as some feared. But whatever. June 15th is a good date with little residual competition from the heavy hitters i.e. Spider-Man 3 and Pirattes. Also, the Nancy Drew film that opens the same day should get lost in the shuffle as FOX effectively buries it neck-high in fantastic marketing. Considering the release schedule post June 15th, FF2 has potential for strong legs if--IF--the movie is good. I'll go out on a limb here, but I'm predicting an opening weekend north of $70 million and $175 million-plus domestically. If the movie fares well with critics and good word of mouth, we can expect even more. Since this is FOX's only "major" superhero franchise now (after the now-defunct X-Men series), hopefully they've invested their resources properly.

8. Fantastic Marketing​

Although fanboys may despise this studio for whatever, I seriously doubt any of them will deny that 20th Century Fox does a helluva job with promoting their films. Already, they have taken the marketing to a new level with the brilliant Silver Surfer standees (pictured above). As evidenced with the way they’ve marketed their other comic book films i.e. Daredevil, X2, and X-Men: The Last Stand, we definitely don’t have to worry about the studio getting a number 4 plastered on every media outlet by time June 15th arrives. I don’t think there was one nook or cranny Fox left untouched when marketing the first Fantastic Four film--which went on to become a $330 million blockbuster. So if they can do that for an origin film imagine how much more will they step it up for this sequel! Within a matter of days now we will be witnessing a marketing blitz unlike anything we’ve ever seen. And how awesome is it that they've managed to keep the lid on all the major details (instead of ****ing out every possible clip like certain other overhyped franchises of late)!

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

9. Hot Wheels

The Fantasticar is to the FF what the Batmobile is to the Dynamic Duo. And interestingly enough, one of the designers who created the Batmobile for one of the Warner Bros. flicks was enlisted to bring the famed Reed Richards creation to life for this sequel. Patterned after the aquatic design of a ray, this sleek flying vehicle is a major improvement over the early "Bathtub" conceptions the comics introduced. Faithful to the source material, this vehicle has the ability to break into 3 separately powered, flying pods--each equiped with weapons. Automaker Dodge has a partnership with FOX on this project which has resulted in clever television commercials, print ads and other exposure. Most importantly, the arrival of the Fantasticar means giving the FF the means to truly take their adventure to a global level--and this is something that comic fans have been begging to see for many years.

10. Andre Braugher​

As in the case of Laurence Fishburne, the addition of this multiple Emmy-Winning actor will only raise the quality level of this film. It's good to see director Tim Story surrounding his marquee actors with a strong supporting cast this time. I don't know how large Andre's role as a goverment official will be, but judgiing from the trailers his character appears to have quite a bit of interaction with the Fantastic Four. Mainstream audiences and critics defintely love this highly-decorated actor, so his presence in the film will be a draw for many.

11. Frankie Raye ​

Fanboys know that the character Frankie Raye eventually becomes Nova--the new herald of Galactus. While it doesn't appear that this film is going to go there this time, it's great to see another nod to the comics. After all, writer Don Payne could've opted to use just any name for this new love interest for Johnny Storm, but how appropos it is to go this route--especially considering the romance between the two. Perhaps if FF3 does go into a full-blown encounter with the Big G, this character will take a more prominent role. For now, let's look forward to the sparks between Chris Evans and actress Beau Garrett.

12. Big Ben--Finally ​

Aside from the organic take on Dr. Marco Polo Doom, the biggest pet peeve that rocked the fanboy community in 2004 had to be the size of Ben Grim's brow. Even though producters chose to honor FF co-creator Jack Kirby's original character design, fans demanded a more traditional look for the rocky-hided creature--complete with a fatter brow over his eyes. Well....

....Nuff said. ​

13. Opening Sequence Animation​

FOX has enlisted the work of Framework Studio to produce FF2's main title sequence. Why is this little tidbit on my list this year? Because quite frankly, the first film's opening sequence was the suck! Not only was it brief, but it was also boring and ineffective. To me, it just screamed cheap, like the studio didn't value it like its other comic book movie franchises. However, Framework Studio's involvement gives me hope, because they were responsible for the splendid 3D CGI main title sequences for films like Casino Royale, X-Men: The Last Stand and Click. They produced the Spider-Man 3 teaser as well. Also, the fact that the forthcoming extended edition of 2005's Fantastic Four will include the original CGI sequence (partnered with John Ottman's marching score) tells me that maybe the powers-that-be realize how bland that film's intro was compared to that of say, X2, the Spider-Man films, or The Hulk. Hopefully Tim Story and Framework have something clever for FF2's opening sequence. May I suggest a voiceover by say...Galactus, The Watcher or even Norrin Radd himself? Patrick Stewart's monologues did wonders for the X-Men franchise...(hint, hint).

14. Happily Ever After​

After SM3's somber ending between Mary Jane and Peter Parker, I have a feeling that audiences are in a mood to see something a bit more, well, less-angsty. Nothing is better than seeing the dorky guy get the girl, and FF2 may see the Richards finally become a family--legally. When FOX sent us a package of new pics, one thing that jumped out to me was the number of Reed/Susan photos. It appears that the romance level will be turned up several notches as the two lovebirds try to tie the knot. This will bring a good balance to the storyline, what with all the chaos the Silver Surfer will be causing, and of course the real "rise" we're all waiting for: The Return of Dr. Doom. I always felt that there was a good chemistry between Ioan and Jessica, but it was marred in the first film by all the bickering and stupid love triangle thingy with Victor. With all that nonsense out the way, I believe we will see how well these two interract with each other--and I'm looking forward to their creator Stan Lee getting shut out of the wedding ceremony. That should be cute. Perhaps it's a good thing that Petey and Mary Jane didn't get hitched in SM3 after all...the Richards' fantastic wedding came first anyway.

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

15. A Darker Element ​

Is it just me, or is there a seriously ominous element going on in FF2? I mean, we should expect some level of campiness in this film because it's the Fantastic Four. But the trailers seem to suggest that this film will have a more serious tone to it. This is actually good, because many felt that FF1 was too kiddy and light to be taken seriously...in fact, I honestly believe that the studio made Doom blast a hole through Cecil's chest (instead of just electrocuting him with his electro-powuhz) just to secure a PG-13 rating. Because without it--it was all PG...that's how fluffy it was. In contrast, FF2 seems to have a lot of twists to it, and much of it appears to revolve around the cloaked Doom and of course, The Surfer (the jury is still out on Galactus--I'm not even touching on him in this article). While I hope they don't totally abandon the kid-friendliness of FF1 (many kids I know are salivating for this sequel), I am certainly glad to hear actors like Jessica Alba reassure us that the film will be darker with serious adult themes. Since the origins are out of the way, it's time to see the FF roll up their sleeves and get down and dirty.

16. My Brother's Keeper​

I think few would argue that one of the best things in the 2005 movie was the sibling-like rivalry between Johnny Storm and Ben Grimm. They stole every scene they were in, and the chemistry between Mike Chiklis and Chris Evans is undeniable. As long as Don Payne's writing is on par, we should be in for a lot of laughs watching these two go at eachother's jugulars again. And if the banter shown in the trailers and TV spots are any indication, FF2 seems to be on target in the comedy department. Please keep it balanced Tim!

17. Action!​

Tim Story has been boasting more action for this film and so far it looks so good. My heart skipped a beat when The Silver Surfer swatted that missile away like it was an insect (in the full trailer). I will admit that the project seems to have taken on an epic scale, with Johnny chasing Norrin, Invisible Woman trying to save the London Eye, and Dr. Doom getting vaporized by...something. Stylized action wasn't exactly missing in the first film, but there just wasn't enough of it--the 3rd act was waaaaaaaaay too short. But we must be fair and admit that part of the reason there was little action in FF1 is because it was an origin story--which meant that 75% of the movie was spent on watching the Four develop their powers. FF2 takes place a year and a half after those events, so there should be no excuse for a lack of action this time. With six cosmic-powered characters (yes, SIX) in the mix, we should be in for some serious rumbling. As long as they don't replace heart and substance with mindless explosions, we should be alright.

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

18. Expanded Character Development​

Another big positive working in favor of this film are the reports that Invisible Woman, Johnny Storm and Reed Richards are set to get expanded characterization. I felt that Reed was the weakest link in the first film--not due to Ioan's acting, but rather just weak writing. His arc was...incomplete to me. Everyone on the production is saying that we'll see a more forceful, courageous leader in the scientist. Sue Storm is said to have a lot more on her plate, as she serves as mediator between Norrin Radd and her trigger-happy teammates and tries to get her wedding off the ground. We hear Johnny is going to be more mature in this installment and as mentioned above, he'll have a love interest to take his mind of his fawning groupies. Rumor has it that Ben Grimm won't get as much development this time, but I'm actually okay with this since he got the lion's share of focus in the first film. Actually, I feel that at least Susan and Reed's characters suffered most due to the rocky behemoth's storyline with Alicia Masters (who was totally wasted by the way), so this is fair game.

19. Forward Momentum ​

Yeah, the first movie wasn't exactly a critical darling amongst the media, but its $330 million box office smashing (as well as its huge DVD sales) proved that it struck a chord with mainstream audiences. Judging from polls and online sources, the mainstream anticipation is high for this movie. Now, if Tim Story can please the fanboy community as well, we can expect the combined word-of-mouth and previous momentum from the 2005 movie's sales to really push this one into orbit. Fox's savvy marketing campaign will take care of the rest.

20. Fantastic Plaza

The Baxter Building has apparently been totally revamped (now that Dr. Richards is paid again) and the sets the production is using look awesome. Gone is the art deco themed headquarters from the first film--and replaced with a stylized pad to organize the Four's adventures from. Does it look kinda space cadetish? Perhaps. But this is the Fantastic Four. And Reed Richards is so smart that he can create fresh drinking water from your urine. So therefore, the place has to be chockful of gadgets and scientific discoveries. Again, this is all reminiscent of the comic book, so I'm glad to see the upgrade.

So there ya have it folks--20 people, places and things that I believe will make FF2 a smash hit this summer. I actually had enough points to develop several more points of reason, but this time I'm inviting you forum members to share what you percieve will be pluses for Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer.

The floor is open.

 

[Vartha]

Is it me , or does this remind anyone else of Prez's Avengers Mansion?

 

[MOIDANGEREUX]

That was an awesome presentation!

It picked me right up. Thanks Lightning Strykez!

 

[Vartha]

Yes, it did make my day. Stryke's posts always do.

 

[Immodicus]

Nice. High Five.

 

[the a1ant]

Fantastic list. Got me even more excited for the film

 

[Maestro83]

This was awesome. Now I need a time machine to see the movie NOW!

Regards,
Maestro

 

[Iron Maiden]

Great list, Caliph.

I would like to add one more perhaps, that I will call The Eye Candy Factor. I think I've even seen some promo from Fox talking about the "sexy cast" of the FF movie. Superficial as it may sound, moviegoers like to see appealing actors and actresses on the big screen and I think the FF movie has a little something for everyone. Obviously, Jessica Alba is the primary example of that. Then there's the very buff looking Chris Evans, especially if they manage to have another gratuitous shirtless scene t: who appeals to the MTV -aged females. Julian McMahon and Ioan Gruffudd appeal to a *ahem* slightly older female audience. I think Michael will appeal to the "Average Joe" crowd, someone the males can identify with and plus someone for the ladies who like the strong guy with a heart of gold. The Silver Surfer could be the enigmatic, coldly logical alien..the kind of thing that made Mr Spock popular back in the day.

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

The Silver Surfer could be the enigmatic, coldly logical alien..the kind of thing that made Mr Spock popular back in the day.

Good points D.

As far as Silver Surfer--yeah he's a naked flying guy from space so there's definitely a sex appeal element with him. After all, how long did this forum obsess over the existence and/or size of his nads?

 

[Kelly]

Good points D.

As far as Silver Surfer--yeah he's a naked flying guy from space so there's definitely a sex appeal element with him. After all, how long did this forum obsess over the existence and/or size of his nads?

Yeah, but only 2 ladies were involved in that discussion......the vast majority were guys........and oddly enough 2 in particular.....



Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....

 

[Kelly]

#22​

I think a TOP 10 great thing going for this movie is the work of Doug Jones. His film history, and the degree of expertise that he has brought to bringing the Silver Surfer off the pages of the comic and to life in this movie, are beyond compare.

 

[Nokio]

I assume Galactus isn't going to be in the film, since he wasn't in the top 20. Kinda worried about the B G.

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

I assume Galactus isn't going to be in the film, since he wasn't in the top 20. Kinda worried about the B G.

I have no idea what is going to be done with Galactus at this time. And since I can't spin rumors of a stupid cloud into a positive, I left it out. It's important that these articles stick to the facts as much as possible--that way I don't look stupid post-movie release if "rumors" prove false.

 

[Lightning Strykez!]

For those of you who'd like to get an idea of what FF2's opening titles might possibly look like, click on this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XX6J1YXO0k&mode=related&search=

The above sequence was designed by Framework Studios.

 

[highguard]

Very good list LS.

I will add in Doug Jones as really bringing the comic physicality of the Silver Surfer to life.

Secondly but most importantly I want to give Tim Story some credit. He has taken a hammering on this film but I think that his love for the FF has brought an energy to this production that you don't see in many other movies.

It is hard enough to do these kinds of movies, 100 million dollar budgets and long hard shoots but I think that when this movie is done come June 15th we will be singing his praises [Edit] I hope.

 

[Kelly]

#22​

I think a TOP 10 great thing going for this movie is the work of Doug Jones. His film history, and the degree of expertise that he has brought to bringing the Silver Surfer off the pages of the comic and to life in this movie, are beyond compare.

Very good list LS.

I will add in Doug Jones as really bringing the comic physicality of the Silver Surfer to life.

Secondly but most importantly I want to give Tim Story some credit. He has taken a hammering on this film but I think that his love for the FF has brought an energy to this production that you don't see in many other movies.

It is hard enough to do these kinds of movies, 100 million dollar budgets and long hard shoots but I think that when this movie is done come June 15th we will be singing his praises [Edit] I hope.

 

[highguard]

They say that great minds think alike

 

[Doctor of Doom]

Whooh! Don't think I'd seen the Castle Doom pictures before, though the novel didn't leave me feeling that happy with that aspect of it.

 

[Vartha]

Yeah, but only 2 ladies were involved in that discussion......the vast majority were guys........and oddly enough 2 in particular.....



Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.....

hehe what're tryin' ta say....

 

[echostation]

and NO magic johnson this time!!! that should be #25 for sure!

 

[Malus]

Wow. Words fail me.

Nice job, Lightning.

30 days til June 15th...
The FF2 Cover Countdown Thread:
http://www.superherohype.com/forums/showthread.php?t=254833&page=61

 

[GoblinScrier]

LS, you are amazing...your phrasing is just incredible and has multiplied my excitement for this movie (if that was at all possible because I have put this movie at the top of my movie list for 2007, in a year when Spiderman 3, Transformers, HP 5, Halloween remake, Saw IV, AVP 2, 300, TMNT, etc. has come out) and I know that if I see this movie and it blows my mind that it will indeed be my favorite superhero film...tied with Spiderman 1/2. Anyway, I loved how you said the real rise we are really looking for is Doom...yeah this movie should have been titled The Rise of Doctor Doom but I would still love to see the 3rd movie called "Fantastic 4: Doomsday."