The Official Teaser for "Secret Level" is out, and it looks amazing!

As Amazon Prime Video gears up to launch its anthology series Secret Level, it feels like a dream come true for anyone who's ever lost themselves in these worlds we've poured hours into. If you're anything like me - a gamer with a love for the narratives that have captivated us, and one who's been collecting "The Art of" books from his favourite games for years - this show is bound to be an immersive experience.

Secret Level promises to pull us into the universes of our favorite games, but with the added magic of cinematic storytelling. Each episode dives into a different game world, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for some and a fresh perspective on modern classics for others. It's not just a showcase of the mainstream hits; the series also highlights some underappreciated gems, making it a treasure trove for both casual and hardcore gamers.

The teaser hints at the vast array of stories waiting to be told, from the eerie corridors of survival horror to the vast expanses of space. It brings to mind Ready Player One, with its immersive dive into different game worlds, each more captivating than the last. Amazon clearly isn’t holding back, with production values that stand toe-to-toe with their biggest hits.

As someone who has always been passionate about the intersection of gaming and storytelling, Secret Level is a dream come true. It's a celebration of the games that have shaped us, and I, for one, am ready to dive in.

Oh, and here's some suggested readings to learn more about Secret Level. I for one can't wait for December to arrive!

• A List Of Every Game Featured In Amazon’s Promising ‘Secret Level’ Show
• Get a sneak peek at the new video game anthology series 'Secret Level' (trailer)
• Prime Video Unveils ‘Secret Level’ Premiere Date and Teaser for New Adult-Animated Series

The Calm of Creation: Why City-Building Games Are Perfect for Gamer Dads

 

As a gamer dad, life can get a little chaotic, right? Between work (or trying to find my next role), family, and the general madness of daily life (soccer practices and games, lifts to here and there, the dog, etc.), finding the time to sit down and really immerse yourself in a game can feel like a luxury. 

That's where city-building games come in, and let me tell you, they've been a game-changer (pun totally intended).

The Magic of the Pause Button

First off, let’s talk about one of the biggest perks of city-building games: the ability to pause or stop the game whenever you need to. Whether you're deep into a session of Cities: Skylines meticulously planning the perfect road network or trying to ensure your colonists survive another day in Surviving Mars, you can hit pause and step away without missing a beat. No need to worry about respawning in an FPS firefight or letting your team down in the middle of a MOBA match (I could write a whole posts on all the insults I've taken from World of Tanks players). 

These game wait for you, not the other way around.

Meditative Moments in Gaming

Additionally, city-building games offer something incredibly valuable in our fast-paced world: a sense of peace and mindfulness. There’s a certain meditative quality to watching your city grow, whether it's a bustling metropolis in Cities: Skylines or a fragile colony on the brink of collapse in Frostpunk. You’re not just reacting to what’s happening on screen; you’re crafting something from the ground up, watching your creation evolve over time. 

It’s like a digital Zen garden, where each decision is a small stone you’re placing just so, bringing order to the chaos. Oh the hundreds of hours I've spent in my Cities Skylines cities, beautifying them with parks, trees and endless landscaping.

Building Something That Lasts (well, sorta)

Speaking of crafting, there’s something deeply satisfying about the “building something” aspect of these games. Unlike many other game genres where the goal is to destroy or outlast, city-builders are all about creation and longevity. In Farthest Frontier, you’re not just surviving; you’re creating a thriving settlement, planning for the future, and seeing the fruits of your labor grow season by season. It's a nice change of pace from the quick reflexes and high-stakes tension of other games.

Casual, But Deep

Don’t be fooled by the seemingly laid-back nature of city-building games - they’re deceptively deep. Take Per Aspera, for example. On the surface, you’re just managing resources and expanding your colony on Mars, but dive deeper, and you’re making decisions that could impact the future of humanity on a new planet. And that's not counting the whole aspect of watching the AI Singularity unfold with every decision you make.

These games allow you to play at your own pace, offering a depth of strategy and planning that’s both engaging and relaxing. It's a perfect match for those of us who want to enjoy our gaming sessions without the pressure of keeping up with the latest trends or high-skill demands of other genres.

A Different Kind of Challenge

Sure, there’s something exhilarating about a well-timed headshot in an FPS or a perfectly executed combo in a MOBA, but city-building games present a different kind of challenge. It’s not about speed or reflexes; it’s about foresight, planning, and adaptability. In Frostpunk, for example, every decision you make could mean the difference between life and death for your citizens, adding a layer of moral complexity to the game. It’s a challenge that’s less about adrenaline and more about thoughtful consideration—a welcome break from the usual high-octane fare.

City-building games like Cities: Skylines, Farthest Frontier, Per Aspera, Frostpunk, and Surviving Mars offer a unique blend of strategy, relaxation, and creativity that’s perfect for casual gamers, especially gamer dads. 

They’re games you can pick up and put down at your convenience, offering a sense of accomplishment without the stress. So next time you’re looking for a game that fits into your busy life, consider giving one of these a try. 

You might just find it’s exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Here's a short list of some of the games I've enjoyed over the years:

1. Cities: Skylines II (2023) - The sequel to the highly acclaimed Cities: Skylines, this game takes city-building to new heights with more advanced tools, deeper simulation, and enhanced graphics.
2. Farthest Frontier (2022) - A survival city-builder where you manage a frontier settlement, focusing on resource management, farming, and surviving harsh conditions.
3. Surviving the Aftermath (2021) - A post-apocalyptic city-builder where you lead a group of survivors to rebuild society after a global catastrophe.
4. Memoriapolis (2024) is a city-building game where you guide a city through 2,500 years of history across four eras. The game emphasizes organic growth, resource management, and cultural influence, allowing your city to evolve uniquely through each age, with distinct challenges and opportunities shaping your city's future.
5. Manor Lords (2024) is a medieval city-building and strategy game focused on realism. You manage a settlement, from agriculture to urban planning, while also engaging in large-scale tactical battles. The game emphasizes detailed building mechanics and realistic resource management. 
6. Per Aspera (2020) - A Mars colonization city-builder with a focus on scientific accuracy, where you terraform the planet and build a self-sustaining colony.
7. Industries of Titan (2020) - A city-building strategy game set on Saturn’s moon Titan, blending industrial city-building with corporate management.
8. Endzone: A World Apart (2020) - A post-apocalyptic city-builder where you create a new civilization in a radioactive wasteland, focusing on survival and resource management.
9. Frostpunk (2018) - A city-builder with a strong focus on survival and morality, where you manage a city in a frozen world, making tough decisions to ensure the survival of your citizens.
10. Anno 1800 (2019) - A historical city-building game set during the industrial revolution, blending city-building, resource management, and trade.

These games offer a wide range of settings and gameplay mechanics, from futuristic colonies to historical cities, each providing unique challenges and experiences for fans of the genre.

Duel of the Fates vs. The Rise of Skywalker: Which would have been a better Episode IX?

Having explored the details of Colin Trevorrow's "Duel of the Fates" script, it's hard not to feel a pang of what could have been. 

His version offers a darker, more consistent tone and gives characters like Finn and Rose their due, allowing them to shine in ways they didn't in "The Rise of Skywalker." Rey's character arc is more nuanced, and her double-bladed lightsaber is a fitting evolution of her weaponry and skills. Kylo Ren's journey is also more compelling, depicting him as a true, unrepentant villain haunted by Luke's ghost and seeking power from an ancient Sith master. Not a Romeo in the making that he became in the released version.

The final battle on Coruscant ties the conflict back to a significant location, making the stakes feel real and tangible. Rey and Kylo's duel on Mortis adds a layer of mysticism and emotional weight, concluding their arcs with thematic resonance. While "Duel of the Fates" isn't perfect and has some plot elements that might feel abrupt or overused, these could have been refined with further drafts.

In contrast, "The Rise of Skywalker" felt disjointed, trying to tie up too many loose ends and often sidelining important characters. The return of Palpatine, while nostalgic, seemed like an out-of-place retcon, and the film's attempt to please everyone ended up satisfying no one. Ok, maybe a few.

In the end, similar to the W. Gibson script for "Alien 3" within the Xenomorph universe, "Duel of the Fates" stands as a fascinating "what if" scenario, providing a more coherent and emotionally resonant conclusion to the Skywalker saga. It's a version that many fans, including myself, would have loved to see brought to life on the big screen. While we'll never know for sure how Trevorrow's vision would have translated, it certainly offers a compelling alternative that feels truer to the legacy of Star Wars. 

So, here's to the story that could have been, and to the endless possibilities of the galaxy far, far away.

Cause as it's stand today, Star Wars is in a shit load of trouble. Andor Season 2 anyone?

Further readings:

• "Star Wars: Duel of the Fates" (Wikipedia)
• "Star Wars: 10 Major Differences In Colin Trevorrow's Rise Of Skywalker Script" (Screen Rant)
• "The Full Original Star Wars 9 Script Has Supposedly Leaked. And It Gives Fans the Ending They Deserved." (Esquire)
• "Colin Trevorrow's Alleged Star Wars Episode IX Ending Features Some Familiar Themes" (Gizmodo)
• "Colin Trevorrow's Star Wars 9 Was Full Of Shocking Story Choices" (Screen Rant)
• "‘Star Wars: Episode IX’ Director Colin Trevorrow Promises “Satisfying” Answer to Rey Theories" (Collider)

Now THAT is an Alien movie! | "Alien: Romulus | Official Trailer"

A Plea for the Soul of Star Wars in the Age of Disney Simplification

Beghast's "STAR WARS De-Infantilized (It Works)" resonates deeply with many adult fans of Star Wars, myself included, as it captures so elegantly a sentiment of disenchantment with the franchise's direction in recent years. It articulates a shared experience: the magic and awe of the original and prequel trilogies give way to a sense of dissonance as the saga transitions into a realm that feels overly simplified, seemingly tailored more towards younger audiences than the broad demographic that has long cherished the galaxy far, far away.

This sense of oversimplification, where narratives feel like they're holding the viewer's hand too tightly, mirrors content designed for very young children, diminishing the saga's depth. Yet, hope shines through with the acknowledgment of "Rogue One" and "Andor" as standout examples within the new wave, praised for their complexity and mature themes. These entries demonstrate that the franchise can still offer stories that resonate with adult fans without compromising its universal appeal.

Star Wars, at its heart, was never just a children's story but a saga with layers of storytelling, character development, and a richly crafted universe that engaged audiences across the age spectrum. The critique laments the recent shift towards content that seems to prioritize younger viewers at the expense of the richness that made Star Wars beloved by so many.

Their review serves as a call to action for future Star Wars storytelling. 

It's a plea for a balance that ensures accessibility to new, younger fans while retaining the complexity, depth, and narrative richness that have long drawn in adult audiences. "STAR WARS De-Infantilized (It Works)" captures the longing for a return to the saga's roots, advocating for storytelling that embraces the franchise's legacy of captivating a timeless audience, ensuring Star Wars remains a journey for all ages.

Agree? Disagree? 

I'd love to know your thoughts. Head over to the comments and let me know.

Hellcat Chronicles: Turning Casual Play into Tactical Triumph in World of Tanks

Jumping back into World of Tanks after long hiatus, and a big update felt a bit like a cold splash of water yesterday - especially when I dove straight into battle with my Super Hellcat and ended up more like a skittish kitten hiding in the bushes (literally) than the fierce TD I should've been. 

Yep, my gameplay was rusty, and the match didn’t go well at all. The feedback from my teammates? Let’s just say it was far from encouraging and leave it at that. 

Honestly, I can’t blame them; I really wasn’t at the top of my game.

So, I figured it was time for a little self-reflection and improvement. I decided to pull together some straightforward tips and tricks to keep me from making the same mistakes next time. Along the way, I stumbled upon some cool playthroughs that actually showed me what I should be doing. The guide below is what came out of that little project. 

Hope it helps you dodge the newbie moves and maybe even enjoy the game a bit more. Let’s get back in there and show them what we’ve got!

World of Tanks || Super Hellcat - Tank Review

Playing the Super Hellcat

Playing as a Tank Destroyer (TD) in World of Tanks, particularly with vehicles like the Super Hellcat and Hellcat, requires a good mix of tactical awareness, map knowledge, and understanding of the vehicle's strengths and weaknesses. Someone with extensive experience piloting TDs would likely tell you that the following are the best setups, crew skills, and playstyle strategies to help your team secure victory.

Vehicle Setup in Detail

Equipment Choices

For both the Hellcat and Super Hellcat, the goal is to maximize their strengths: mobility, concealment, and firepower.

• Optics (Binocular Telescope or Coated Optics): Increasing your view range is critical. Spotting enemies before they spot you allows you to make informed decisions on when to shoot and when to relocate. The choice between Binocular Telescope and Coated Optics depends on your playstyle; Binoculars for more stationary play and Coated Optics for more active scouting and repositioning.
• Gun Rammer: Reducing your reload time significantly increases your Damage Per Minute (DPM), making you a bigger threat on the battlefield. Being able to shoot more frequently means you can exploit enemy tanks' vulnerabilities more often.
• Camo Net / Turbocharger: The choice here is between enhancing your stealth with a Camo Net or boosting your mobility with a Turbocharger. The Hellcat, being slightly more geared towards ambush tactics, benefits greatly from a Camo Net. The Super Hellcat, with its enhanced mobility, can further capitalize on this with a Turbocharger, allowing for rapid repositioning and flanking maneuvers.

Crew Skills in Detail

Developing your crew skills is crucial for maximizing the potential of your TDs.

• Commander:
• Sixth Sense is non-negotiable for TDs. Knowing when you've been spotted can save you from being quickly eliminated.
• Recon further boosts your view range, complementing your equipment choices.
• Gunner:
• Camouflage makes you harder to detect, a key survival trait for a TD.
• Snap Shot improves your gun's accuracy during turret movements, allowing for more reliable shots after repositioning.
• Driver:
• Smooth Ride reduces the accuracy penalty when firing on the move, which can be beneficial in hit-and-run tactics.
• Off-Road Driving improves your mobility on various terrains, enhancing your ability to quickly get into position or escape danger.
• Loader: If your TD has a dedicated loader,
• Camouflage further enhances your stealth.
• Safe Stowage increases the durability of your ammo rack, reducing the chance of being taken out by a single hit.

Super Hellcat | World of Tanks Best Replays

Gameplay Tactics in Detail

Early Game

The initial phase of the match is about gathering intelligence and taking key positions without being overly aggressive.

Scout and Reposition: Use your mobility to reach forward positions quickly. Your goal is to gather as much information as possible on enemy movements for your team. After spotting, fall back to a safe distance before engaging.

Mid to Late Game

As the match progresses, your role shifts towards exploiting enemy weaknesses and supporting your team from the second line.

Hit and Run: Identify isolated targets or support teammates by targeting enemies focused on your allies. After firing, immediately relocate to avoid counter-fire, especially from enemy artillery or hidden TDs.

Supporting Heavies: Position yourself behind or beside your team’s heavy tanks. From here, you can safely engage enemies that are distracted by your frontline, using your superior DPM to whittle them down.

Map Movement and Positioning

Understanding each map's key features and sight lines is crucial. Use terrain to your advantage, keeping in mind that your primary goal is to support your team by dealing damage from concealed positions or by exploiting enemy flanks.

• Use Terrain: Always be mindful of hills, ridges, and other terrain features that can provide cover or concealment. Being able to shoot without exposing your tank is a key skill for TD players.
• Avoid Open Fields: Open areas are death zones for lightly armored vehicles like the Hellcat and Super Hellcat. Move from cover to cover and stay aware of potential threats like enemy TDs and artillery.
• High Ground Advantage: High ground not only provides a better view of the battlefield but also makes it harder for enemies to hit your tank. Use elevation to your advantage whenever possible.

By focusing on these strategies and continuously practicing and refining your skills, you'll greatly contribute to your team's efforts and enjoy success in your Hellcat and Super Hellcat in World of Tanks.

How a Super Hellcat should tag along with...

The Hellcat, with its blend of mobility, firepower, and limited armor, can significantly benefit from coordinating with certain types of vehicles on the battlefield. Here’s a breakdown of which vehicles a Hellcat should consider partnering with and why:

Medium Tanks

Medium tanks are versatile and can perform a wide range of roles, making them excellent partners for the Hellcat. Their balance of speed, armor, and firepower allows them to effectively scout, flank, and engage enemies at various ranges. A Hellcat can support medium tanks by providing additional firepower from a second line or by exploiting openings created by the mediums’ aggressive maneuvers. This pairing can quickly adapt to changing battlefield conditions, moving to support weakened flanks or to capitalize on enemy vulnerabilities.

Heavy Tanks

While heavy tanks lack the Hellcat’s mobility, they make up for it with superior armor and firepower. Teaming up with heavy tanks allows the Hellcat to operate from behind the frontline, using the heavies as a shield while it delivers precise shots. This partnership is especially effective in areas with good cover and long sightlines, where the Hellcat can use its excellent gun to support the heavy tanks without exposing itself to enemy fire. The Hellcat should avoid blocking the retreat paths of allied heavy tanks and remain ready to reposition if the enemy breaks through the frontline.

Other TDs

Pairing with other TDs, especially those with strong frontal armor, can create a formidable defensive line that can deter enemy advances. The Hellcat, with its good mobility, can act as a scout or flanker for this group, identifying targets for the more heavily armored TDs to engage. However, this requires good communication and coordination to ensure that the Hellcat does not become isolated or targeted by enemy artillery.

Artillery

While not directly tagging along with artillery, a Hellcat can play a crucial role in protecting these valuable assets from enemy scouts and light tanks. By staying relatively close to friendly artillery, the Hellcat can use its mobility and firepower to intercept and eliminate threats to the team’s artillery pieces, ensuring they can continue to support the team effectively.

Light Tanks

A somewhat less common but potentially effective partnership can be formed with light tanks. Light tanks excel in scouting and can quickly identify key enemy positions. A Hellcat following a light tank at a safe distance can capitalize on the scouting information, using its accurate gun to take out spotted enemies before they can react. However, this requires the Hellcat to stay alert and ready to move, as the light tank’s fast-paced scouting can lead them into rapidly changing situations.

When pairing with any vehicle, the key for the Hellcat driver is to maintain situational awareness and adapt to the battle’s flow. The Hellcat's strength lies in its ability to deliver impactful damage from positions where it is not easily targeted. Effective communication with teammates and choosing the right moments to strike or relocate are crucial for leveraging the Hellcat’s capabilities to their fullest.

How NOT to play the Super Hellcat!

One of the worst ways to play the Hellcat in World of Tanks is to treat it like a frontline brawler or a heavy tank. The Hellcat is equipped with a powerful gun and excellent mobility but suffers from very thin armor and a relatively open turret design, making it highly vulnerable to enemy fire from almost all types of weapons it encounters on the battlefield.

Key Mistakes in Playing the Hellcat as a Frontline Tank:

• Engaging in Direct Firefights: Attempting to trade shots with enemy tanks, especially heavies or well-armored mediums and TDs, is a quick way to get destroyed. The Hellcat's armor is insufficient to absorb hits, and its relatively large profile for a TD makes it an easy target when exposed.
• Ignoring Cover and Concealment: Failing to use the terrain, bushes, and other forms of cover to hide your tank and mask your movements negates one of the Hellcat's main strengths – its ability to strike unseen. Being visible on the front lines means you'll likely be one of the first targets to be fired upon.
• Static Gameplay: Staying in one position for too long, especially on the front lines, can make you an easy target for enemy artillery and tanks. The Hellcat thrives on its ability to relocate quickly, providing support where it's needed and avoiding return fire.
• Not Using its Mobility: The Hellcat's speed is a key feature that allows it to flex across the map, responding to threats, reinforcing failing flanks, or exploiting gaps in the enemy lines. Playing it in a stationary, frontline role wastes this potential, making the tank much less effective than it could be.

How to Avoid These Mistakes:

• Play to Your Strengths: Use the Hellcat's mobility and excellent gun handling to engage enemies from unexpected angles, relocate frequently to avoid being targeted, and always look for opportunities to support your team from a distance or the second line.
• Stay Aware: Keep an eye on the mini-map and be ready to move if you're in danger of being flanked, or if there's a more advantageous position you can take to support your team.
• Engage Wisely: Choose your battles carefully. Look for targets that are engaged with your teammates, isolated, or presenting their weaker armor to you. Avoid head-on engagements with tanks that can easily outgun or outarmor you.

By avoiding the frontline brawler playstyle and focusing on mobility, stealth, and strategic engagement, you'll greatly increase your effectiveness and survivability in the Hellcat, turning it into a formidable asset for your team.

Final thoughts...

Mastering the Hellcat and Super Hellcat requires patience, good positioning, and an understanding of when to engage or retreat. Remember, your primary role is to support your team by providing accurate and timely damage from a distance or flanking. Avoid direct confrontations with heavier tanks unless you have a clear advantage or support. By following these strategies and adjusting your playstyle based on the battle's flow, you'll become a valuable asset to your team and help secure victory on the battlefield.

The Sands of Arrakis Beckon Again: Dune Part Two Unveiled

Tonight, for me and a few millions aficionados, the desert planet of Arrakis comes alive once more in the highly anticipated sequel to Denis Villeneuve's epic adaptation of Frank Herbert's masterpiece, Dune: Part Two. After the groundbreaking success of the first installment, expectations are sky-high, and from what I've gathered, the sequel is set to not only meet but exceed them.

Dune: Part One left us on the brink of monumental change, with Paul Atreides (Timothée Chalamet) stepping into his destiny among the Fremen of Arrakis. Part Two promises to dive deeper into the political intrigue, the battle for the control of the spice mélange, and Paul's journey towards becoming the prophesied Muad'Dib. The storyline is expected to explore themes of power, betrayal, and destiny, with a focus on the complex dynamics between the Atreides (what's left of them), the Harkonnens (Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen), and the native Fremen (looking forward to seeing more of their way of life showcased). It's this intricate narrative, combined with the breathtaking landscape of Arrakis, that sets the stage for a cinematic experience of epic proportions.

At the helm of this interstellar voyage is Denis Villeneuve, a director renowned for his ability to blend profound storytelling with visual grandeur - and also a native of Québec, my home province. Villeneuve's direction in the first part was nothing short of masterful (was anyone surprised), and his vision for Part Two is one of the most anticipated aspects of the sequel. His ability to bring Herbert's dense and complex world to life, while maintaining a deep emotional core, has been widely praised, and there's little doubt that he will continue to weave his magic in this next chapter.

No discussion of Dune would be complete without mentioning Hans Zimmer's score. Zimmer, a maestro of film music (Interstellar, Gladiator, Inception, etc.), has crafted a soundscape that is as vast and mystifying as the deserts of Arrakis. His score for Part One was a groundbreaking achievement, and the sequel promises to further elevate the auditory experience, blending traditional orchestration with innovative sound design to immerse the audience in the world of Dune fully.

The visual effects (F/X) in Dune: Part Two are expected to be as groundbreaking as its predecessor, with the trailers teasing sequences of even greater scale and complexity. The first film set a high bar for visual storytelling, with its masterful use of CGI and practical effects to create the world of Arrakis. This time around, the F/X team, under Paul Lambert​'s direction, is expected to push the boundaries further, bringing to life the epic battles and the awe-inspiring sandworms with even more detail and realism.

As for the future of the Dune franchise, speculation is rife. With Part Two likely to cover the remainder of the first book, fans are eagerly discussing the possibility of Villeneuve tackling Dune Messiah - as he had indicated that he would not continue beyond a third film. Given his success with the franchise so far, the prospect of Villeneuve continuing to guide the saga is an exciting one - whether behind the camera or as an executive producer. His vision has redefined what epic science fiction cinema can be (Arrival, Blade Runner 2049), and the potential for further exploring the rich universe of Dune under his direction is a tantalizing prospect.

Dune: Part Two isn't just a movie to me, and to most Dune fans; it's an event. And hopefully the continuation of a whole new and fresh movie franchise. With its compelling storyline, Villeneuve's visionary direction, Zimmer's haunting score, and jaw-dropping F/X, the film is set to be a cinematic landmark. As I look to the future, the possibility of continuing this journey through the Dune saga with Villeneuve at the helm is a prospect that fills us with anticipation. 

So, grab your stillsuit and prepare to walk the sands of Arrakis once again - I'll be doing so tonight (minus the stillsuit of course!😆)

The universe of Dune awaits, and its mysteries are more compelling than ever.

Exploring the What-If: A Review of William Gibson's Unproduced 'Alien 3' Screenplay

Sigourney Weaver in Alien 3. Photograph: 20th Century

William Gibson's unproduced screenplay for "Alien 3" offers a narrative that diverges significantly from David Fincher's 1992 film, potentially providing a sequel that aligns more closely with the thematic and tonal elements established in "Alien" and "Aliens".

Gibson's script set the stage with the Sulaco entering a sector controlled by a cold war-esque Union of
Progressive Peoples (U.P.P.), whereupon Ripley, Newt, and an injured Hicks find themselves amidst a new set of challenges. Unlike Fincher's version, Gibson's screenplay maintains the survival and continuity of key characters from "Aliens," notably Bishop, Newt and Hicks, and introduces a plot revolving around the militarization and genetic modification of Xenomorphs.

One of the key aspects where Gibson's screenplay could have excelled over Fincher's "Alien 3" is in its extension of the action-oriented, ensemble-cast dynamics that James Cameron developed in "Aliens." Gibson’s narrative continuity with "Aliens" could have offered fans a more satisfying narrative bridge between the second and fourth films of the franchise. Additionally, the screenplay's exploration of themes such as cold war tensions and the dangers of bioweaponry could have added depth to the "Alien" universe, presenting a nuanced backdrop against which the horror and survival elements of the series could unfold.

[SPOILER ALERT below]

Moreover, Gibson’s screenplay proposed a fresh take on the Xenomorph life cycle and the potential for human-Xenomorph hybrids, introducing new elements to the alien mythology that could have enriched the franchise's lore. This creative expansion upon the established Xenomorph biology could have provided a novel and terrifying twist on the alien threat, rejuvenating the franchise with new horror and science fiction elements.

However, it's worth noting that Gibson’s screenplay, while offering interesting narrative and thematic elements, also faced criticisms for potentially not deviating enough from the formula established by "Aliens" and for sidelining Ripley, a crucial character of the franchise. Despite these criticisms, the screenplay’s potential to combine the action and team dynamics of "Aliens" with new, thought-provoking themes could have resulted in a sequel that not only paid homage to its predecessors but also paved new ground for the series.

In comparison to the released "Alien 3," which took a more isolated and horror-centric approach by focusing on Ripley's struggle on a prison planet (and which was nevertheless, IMHO, a brilliant film), Gibson’s version could have provided a broader scope, exploring interstellar politics, biotechnological ethics, and the complexities of human and alien interaction. While Fincher's film has gained appreciation over time for its atmospheric and stylistic contributions to the franchise, Gibson's unproduced screenplay remains a fascinating "what if" scenario that hints at a different direction the "Alien" saga could have taken, potentially offering a more direct continuation of the themes and characters that fans had grown to love in the first two films.

Audible's audio drama Alien 3 was a brilliant dramatization of the Gibson screenplay, and I highly recommend you give it a listen!

Tolkien's Paradoxical Stance: A Deep Dive into His Love and Aversion for the Roman Empire

J.R.R. Tolkien remains a figure of intriguing complexity, and in some cases contradiction. As a devout Roman Catholic and a lover of Roman languages, Tolkien's aversion to the Roman Empire stands out as a remarkable paradox. As one explores Tolkien's complex relationship with the Roman Empire and its influence on his work, one cannot deny his deep-seated values of localism and traditionalism.

In Tolkien's Middle-earth, we find a reflection of his ideological battle—a world where the preservation of diversity stands as a testament to the resilience of local cultures against the tides of conquest and cultural erasure.

Tolkien's Ideological Conflict

At the heart of Tolkien's paradoxical stance is his deep admiration for the Roman people and their culture juxtaposed with his disdain for the Roman Empire. This aversion did not stem from a dislike of Roman achievements in engineering, governance, or the arts, but from the empire's approach to conquest and cultural eradication. Tolkien, despite his affection for Latin and Roman Catholicism, viewed the empire as antithetical to his cherished principles of localism and traditionalism.

Influence of the Roman Empire on Tolkien's Work

The shadow of the Roman Empire looms subtly over Tolkien's Middle-earth, with the city of Minas Tirith drawing inspiration from the historical Constantinople and themes of decline echoing the fall of ancient civilizations. However, Tolkien's engagement with these inspirations does not translate into an outright admiration for the empire's historical actions. Instead, he repurposes elements of Roman history and mythology to enrich his fictional world, all the while embedding a critique of imperialism and cultural homogenization.

A Champion of Localism and Traditionalism

Tolkien's ideology was profoundly rooted in a love for England, a preference for localized, distinct cultures, and languages. His opposition to the Roman Empire's empire-building and suppression of local traditions stems from this deep-seated belief. Through his writings and personal letters, Tolkien consistently advocated for the preservation of local customs, languages, and independence, opposing any form of imperialism that threatened these values. His narrative worlds are testament to his belief in the coexistence of diverse cultures and the preservation of their unique identities.

Reflecting Ideals Through Middle-earth

Middle-earth serves as a canvas for Tolkien to articulate his ideals. The coexistence of distinct cultures, languages, and traditions within Middle-earth mirrors Tolkien's opposition to the homogenizing force of empires. Characters and societies in his work often face threats from forces seeking to dominate and erase diversity, reflecting Tolkien's critique of imperialism. Through his fictional narratives, Tolkien advocates for a world where diversity is not only preserved but celebrated.

Latin, Catholicism, and Cultural Unity

Tolkien's advocacy for the use of Latin in Catholic services might seem contradictory to his localist views at first glance. However, Tolkien saw Latin as a unifying element of the Catholic Church, one that connected its history to the present without undermining local languages and cultures. His stance is a nuanced one that distinguishes between cultural appreciation and political dominion. For Tolkien, Latin represented a spiritual and cultural heritage that transcended the political ambitions of the Roman Empire, aligning with his vision of a world united in diversity rather than uniformity.

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Tolkien's paradoxical stance on the Roman Empire reflects a complex interplay of admiration and aversion, deeply intertwined with his values and beliefs. His work, while drawing some inspiration from Roman history and mythology, serves as a critique of imperialism and a celebration of localism and traditionalism. In Tolkien's Middle-earth, we find a reflection of his ideological battle—a world where the preservation of diversity stands as a testament to the resilience of local cultures against the tides of conquest and cultural erasure. Through his unique perspective, Tolkien challenges us to appreciate the nuances of cultural heritage and the importance of preserving diversity in our increasingly globalized world.

Further readings:

• The Roman crisis that inspired J.R.R. Tolkien
• Tolkien and the classical world
• Tolkien and Attila
• Decline Without Fall: Tolkien and the Long Defeat
• Was Minas Tirith inspired by Constantinople?