Lewis Carroll, born Charles Lutwidge Dodgson, was an influential figure in literature and mathematics in the 19th century. His most famous work, "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," continues to captivate readers even today. Carroll's writing style and use of symbolism created a world that is both fantastical and thought-provoking. One of Carroll's greatest strengths as a writer is his ability to create a sense of enchantment. From the very beginning of "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," readers are transported into a world that is both familiar and yet completely different from their own. Carroll's use of playful language and whimsical characters makes the story feel like a dream, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.
Gremlins 2: Brainstorm
It’s felt like a rainy day, month, and year; why not cheer ourselves up? Having remorselessly rubbished Jordan Peele’s much ballyhooed Candyman reboot, let’s see Peele and Comedy Central partner Michael-Keegan Key sticking the boot into the Hollywood tropes that they now seem content to admire. I’m quite a fan of Joe Dante’s 1990 follow up to Gremlins, and didn’t immediately see the need for an entire sketch about the creative process behind it, but Gremlins 2 Brainstorm absolutely hits the mark.
In a Hollywood meeting room, Joe Dante (Key) and some writers discuss the possibilities for the sequel, to be set in an urban office block. Dante is immediately suspicious of the input of sequels expert Star Magic Jackson Jr (Peele), but moves forward with the ideas man promising to take a back seat. But Star Magic Jackson Jr soon ends up dominating the meeting, giving each writer the chance to create their own gremlin at ludicrously short notice, and promising to put each one of their creations in the movie. The random answers feel and sound improvised, and yet as the final caption reminds us, every single one of these daft ideas somehow made it to the final movie.
As Graham Greene noted after suffering a Bing Crosby programmer, it takes stamina to be film critic, and sketches like this provide respite by reminding us just how random the creative process is. Star Magic Jackson Jr has no filter, and no quality control; if it’s an idea, as he says, ‘IT’S IN THE MOVIE’ and suggestions like ‘vegetable gremlin’ ‘bat gremlin’ ‘googeley-eyed gremlin’ or ‘electro gremlin’ all fill him with delight. Dante’s suggestion that “I don’t think the gremlin design is broken’ is ignored; ‘This is G2 people, and it’s going to be a par-tay!’
Gremlins 2: The New Batch was an inspired film in itself, much better than the original, but the decision-making process involved is bold enough to deserve parody, and Key and Peele deliver one that nails the madcap feel of the movie. This is a funny, knowing sketch that hits a recognisable truth; films are often far more fun to make or imagine than they are to watch.
Carroll's use of playful language and whimsical characters makes the story feel like a dream, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Another captivating aspect of Carroll's writing is his use of symbolism. Throughout the story, he incorporates various symbols that have deeper meanings.
Comments
Brian Hannan says:Not quite sure Gremlins deserves a parody given it was off-kettle to begin with. But an interesting premise, going behind the scenes to see how movies get made. I can well imagine the nutcase notions that get thrown around.
Loading. fragglerocking says:I only saw the first and quite enjoyed it but never felt the need to do the second. So this is a parody movie of the making of G2? Not a proper documentary about it? All sounds a bit odd.
Loading. Bookstooge says:How would this hold up to someone who had never seen either gremlins movies but knew the basic gist of the plot?
Would it still be maybe perhaps slightly amusing?
KEY & PEELE Explain GREMLINS 2
Oh, Gremlins 2, you are the train wreck that just keeps on giving. Despite how terribly morbid it is, that is the most apt description I may have ever given a film. In 1990, the sequel to the highly popular horror-comedy Gremlins made its way into theaters, and everyone hated it. (Editor’s Note: Some of us love it, SHEESH.) Roger Ebert thought that “the movie has too many gremlins and not enough story line,” and in a new sketch for Key & Peele, that seems to be exactly what they think the creation of the film banked on.
Jordan Peele, as Star Magic Jackson Jr., the Hollywood Sequel Doctor, sits in on the writing of Gremlins 2 and spices things up. I would just like to note, I want both that name and that title. Imagine the business cards this guy has.
It’s a shame that this show will be ending after this season, because I truly don’t know if I have ever seen a weak episode from them. Maybe a sketch or two that didn’t hit, but otherwise they are on point. And in this case, the film really is the best way to look at a cash grab that wanted to extend the universe of the concept, but also wanted to see just how crazy they could get with the creatures that inhabited the film. The comedy was mostly hokey, the premise was pretty thin, and a lot of the scares were recycled from the first, but if there is one thing everyone remembers it is the ridiculous Gremlin characters that populated the film.
So what ones are pitched in the skit that appear in Gremlins 2? All of them, even Hulk Hogan appearing and breaking the fourth wall midway through. The movie has gained an audience these days, with its zany take on the series, nonsensical and referential style of humor, and all around attitude of not giving a ****. It was a Joe Dante film, after all, and played more like a parody of over-the-top sequels than a real entry into a franchise.
“Sorry folks, it won’t happen again” No Hulk, it sure won’t.
Which was your favorite Gremlin from Gremlins 2? Let us know in the comment below. Mine is Hulk Hogan’s attempt at an acting career.
Major Slim Downs: Stars Who Underwent Weight Loss Surgery
For example, the White Rabbit symbolizes the concept of time and how it can dictate our lives. The Caterpillar represents transformation and growth. These symbols add layers of depth to the story and encourage readers to think beyond the surface level. Carroll's storytelling also challenges traditional narrative structures. "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" does not follow a linear plotline but instead takes readers on a series of episodic adventures. This unconventional structure mirrors the unpredictable and illogical nature of the Wonderland world itself. Furthermore, Carroll's portrayal of Alice as a strong-willed and curious character breaks gender stereotypes of the time. Alice is not a passive observer but an active participant in her own adventure. She challenges authority and questions the absurdity of the Wonderland world, making her a relatable and empowering figure for readers. In conclusion, Lewis Carroll's bewitching spell lies in his ability to create an enchanting world, use symbolism to convey deeper meanings, challenge conventional storytelling structures, and present a strong and relatable protagonist. His contribution to literature continues to fascinate and inspire readers of all ages, making him a timeless and influential author..
Reviews for "The Victorian Era Through Alice's Eyes: Social Commentary in Lewis Carroll's Works"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to read "The Bewitching Spell of Lewis Carroll" as a fan of Lewis Carroll's work, but I found myself thoroughly disappointed. The book lacked depth and creativity, and it failed to capture the whimsical and magical essence of Carroll's stories. The characters were flat and unengaging, and the plot felt rushed and unoriginal. Overall, the book felt like a missed opportunity to truly explore the enchanting world of Lewis Carroll's imagination.
2. Michael - 1 star - I couldn't even finish reading "The Bewitching Spell of Lewis Carroll" because it was just so boring. The writing was dull and lacking any sort of spark. The characters lacked depth and development, making it impossible to care about their journey. Additionally, the plot felt disjointed and confusing, leaving me frustrated and uninterested. I had high hopes for this book, but unfortunately, it fell flat and failed to capture my attention or imagination.
3. Emily - 2 stars - "The Bewitching Spell of Lewis Carroll" was a major letdown for me. As a fan of Lewis Carroll's original works, I expected a magical and captivating story that would transport me to another world. However, this book failed to deliver on that front. The writing was lackluster and didn't do justice to Carroll's whimsical style. The plot felt forced and predictable, taking away any sense of wonder and surprise. Overall, I found the book to be a disappointing attempt at capturing the charm of Lewis Carroll's storytelling.