Bags Hooper | USA Character Blog

Joss Whedon Teaches Teamwork and More in The Avengers

Wed, 16 May 2012 08:30:00 -0500

Adapting a comic book into a film that appeals to both purists and general audiences may sound like an insurmountable task, especially when you have several lead characters sharing focus. However, that's exactly what Joss Whedon did with his latest film, The Avengers. After dominating the box office and setting an opening weekend record with over $200 million in ticket sales, it's clear that The Avengers is a success. However, this Character Approved director did more than create a great movie--Whedon reminded us what it means to be a superhero.

The Avengers centers on the story of superheroes Iron Man, Captain America, the Hulk, Thor, Hawkeye, and Black Widow and their fight to stop villain Loki from taking over Earth. Whedon's story isn't just about superheroes fighting a Norse god though--it's more about reaffirming the indomitable human spirit. While Loki works his sharp tongue and guile to pit these singular heroes against each other, the would-be team must learn to put aside differences, egos, and personal interests for the greater good.

The Avengers is a crash course in what it means to be a team, sacrificing oneself for others. Also, Whedon finally got Bruce Banner and the Hulk right for the big screen, and that will mean a lot to comic fans and the friends they drag to the theater the first, second, and third time they see this spectacular film.

[Images: Marvel Studios]

I Know That Voice!

Fri, 04 May 2012 08:30:00 -0500

Do you know that voice?

It's a question everyone asks when they see a new animated TV series, feature film, or trailer, and now you can learn more about the voices of your favorite characters.

I Know That Voice is an upcoming documentary that focuses on the people behind the voices of the movie trailers, cartoons, and animated features we grew up with as well as those productions we see today.

This is one documentary that I can't wait to see. The first trailer for I Know That Voice was recently released, featuring talent dating back to Rocky & Bullwinkle (June Foray as the voice of Rocky) as well as legendary voice director Andrea Romano. Foray is over 90 years old and has been voicing characters since she debuted as the 1940s. You will also see voice talent, voice directors, and casting directors from Up, Madagascar 3, Frankenweenie, Futurama, The Looney Tunes Show, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax, and more.

Instead of performing in front of a camera, these Character Approved voice actors add all their personality behind the scenes. Their performances give the animation directors what they need to then create the final visuals. The documentary also delves into the changing landscape of cinematics in video games and how the production of several games is equal to that of a feature film.

Think you know that voice? Check out the trailer below!

[Image: I Know That Voice trailer via YouTube]