Return of the Jedi 40th Anniversary screening 4/28/23

40 years already?!? I still remember watching this for the first time back in 1997, the special editions. I fell in love with them though they weren't the original non-altered ones some fans preferred over everything that came out after their respective release years. 

As for this version that just got re-released, how did it fare?

+ This is still the definitive version of how the Star Wars saga ended. 

+ It's back on the big screen and the video quality was one of the best re-releases I've seen in years.

+ It still has the same fun and charm as it did back in those days (for me, it was 97). 

+ Seeing this again made me appreciate the hero Luke was. He was selfless, defended his friends and saved his father when nobody else wanted to. What Disney did to him in the sequels was a travesty. 

- If you ain't a fan of the re-releases after the 83 version, you ain't gonna like these versions (i.e. a beak added to the Sarlacc pitt, Hayden Christensen's force ghost, and Darth Vader's "no" at the end of the film added in 2011 editions and beyond etc). The latter I'm not used to because I only owned the 2004 dvd editions and Hayden's ghost used to make me roll my eyes because I wasn't a big fan of the prequels. But after seeing what Disney did to the original trilogy crew and the legacy of SW's, the prequels are masterpieces in comparison. 

- If you hated the Ewoks and the re-used concept of a 2nd Death star, nothing has changed here. 

- Despite having superb video quality overall, there was some soft spots especially in the battle of Endor fight towards the end. 

- Seriously, most of these negatives are really miniscule at best. 

Overall, it was an amazing experience to witness one of the greatest endings in cinematic history. If you are a huge SW fan or of the original trilogy, its worth it to watch it on the the big screen again. For me once again, SW's ended here. 

Poster here: https://comicbook.com/starwars/news/star-wars-return-of-the-jedi-returning-to-theaters-40th-anniversary-new-poster-revealed/

Transformers the Movie director's cut petition from Artist Stan

Transformers the movie director's cut petition

Hey, its worth the try. From Artist Stan of youtube. 

Transformers Toys Legacy Evolution Deluxe Shrapnel Review

 

Aloha, I am back with another TF review. And this time it is with Legacy Insecticon Shrapnel! How does he fare, lets get started!

Boxing

Like Scraphook, Shrapnel is of the evofusion gimmick but mainly through his weapons rather than limbs.

Standing tall

Visually, I was a little put off on how he looked initially. I didn't like how the pincers were of a dull grey paint. His chest cavity doesn't open like Kickback from the original Legacy line. No biggie on that. Either wise, he is painted nicely. As a matter of fact, I found Shrapnel to be delightful upon fidgeting with him.  He comes with dual blasters and a silver gun which allow you to attach the dual blasters for the fusion gimmick. Or you can simply his weapons on any 5mm peg you find.  Overall, it would had been nice to paint his pincers the same to compliment his gun. 

W/Kickback

Both figures are light. It's great to finally pair KB with another member of the Insecticons. Took Hastak long enough. Robot mode, Shrapnel is done better. KB was and is still too loose as of this date. Shrapnel's joints are tighter and so is his head... a little too tight however. Mix and  match their weapons for some additional fun factor. The only problem is KB's drum mag can get in the way disallowing multiple uses for gun placements on Shrapnel's. 

Transform

Shrapnel's transformation is definitely more complex than KB's. His two pistols form part of his appendages though it can be removed to be used as turret placements. The fun part about this mode is pretty much the usage of his pincers. It works really well on this mode. I really wish it was a metallic finish like his original toy and he is also lacking the yellow legs he once had which is also a dull grey finish on this one. Still, I prefer this mode over KB's. 

Conclusion

Arguably the better of the two Insecticons playwise. The use of his pincers is what makes him enjoyable. Joints are a definite improvement over his loose buddy. The only complaint for the umpteenth time is the color of the pincers. The internet shares the same grievances as well.  I'm not the only one who feels this way. Anyhow, let's bring Bombshell and complete the trio.