In my quest to catch up on stories that I have missed over the last decade or so, I got hold of the four parter 'The Return of Donna Troy' and started reading it the other week. Now due to various things I have only got to part 2 of the story, but what I found really quite interesting wasn't the story (although I am enjoying it), it was the 'Note from the Publisher' on the back page of the first issue. I have been guilty of passing over these in the past but find myself now reading them without a second thought. This particular one was written by Paul Levitz (President and Publisher)- this was published 2005. The opening line was 'Welcome to one of the most exciting times in DC's History.' The ensuing words ultimately listed all things great about DC and actually the list was impressive - Countdown to Infinite Crisis, all-star projects (All Star Batman and Robin, All Star Superman), Justice by Alex Ross and then they got to the movies. Batman Begins was due out out that summer and clearly DC were wetting their pants with excitement (so was I). There was also Constantine and V for Vendetta (both Vertigo) due out too. The former was poor in my opinion, the latter I really enjoyed. But Mr Levitz went on to say '...- and we're staying on the silver screen with a steady stream of surprising and great DC-based films.' For me, I have to think hard about the 'great DC-based films' that have been released. The second Batman was awesome - granted. The Superman film was good, but not great. The spirit? Does that count? It was released by Lions Gate and sucked. Watchmen - I can't comment on this because for all my ramblings that I am a massive comic fan, I haven't seen it. Events conspired against me - but I will be viewing very soon. But my point is that since 2005, other than the two Batman movies, there hasn't been anything exceptional or to use the words of Mr Levitz 'Great'. Going forward, we have another Batman movie, another superman reboot and Green Lantern. Oh and Jonah Hex. Both the Batman and Superman movies have a lot to live upto (for very different reasons). Green Lantern could be very cool if they get it right. Jonah Hex - not really fussed at this stage. Have DC done all that they can to turn such great source material into movie magic? Personally I think they need to take a leaf out of Marvel's book.
I was also interested to read that DC were announcing that there Logo was to change after 25 years of the old one. They really were excited about the future. I have to say, the comics are good, the animated stuff is pretty good, but they are missing a trick on the big screen. Do you think I am being unfair? Are they in fact doing a sterling job?
