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What Makes a Good Video Game to Film Adaptation?

From Tomb Raider (2001, Angelina Jolie) to Sonic the Movie (2020, Jim Carrey), there have been quite a few games likewise adapted into movies, though to varying degrees of failure or success. Tomb Raider was somewhat considered a flop when it first came out, and it currently has a 5.8 on Imdb: (link) a 20% on Rotten Tomatoes from the critics, and a 47% by audiences: (link) and a 33% on Metacritic: (link) though some consider it underrated: (link) By contrast, the Sonic the Hedgehog movie had a 6.5 on Imdb: (link) a 63% critic rating and a 93% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes: (link) and a 47% on Metacritic: (link) The success of the Sonic movie garnered it not one, but two sequels.

The topic taker should analyze the trends of adapting a video game to a movie, including the history of it, and what makes so many of the adaptations fail. The topic taker should really dive into what made good video adaptations good and see what trends their analysis reveals. The topic taker may also consider the future of video game to film adaptations and whether they think there will be more successes or failures as well.

To help the topic taker, consider looking into the following films to start forming trends based off their reception via reviews/to start forming the history of video game to film adaptation as they see fit:

Tomb Raider (2018) in order to compare/contrast it with the 2001 film
Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Detective Pikachu
Prince of Persia: Sands of Time
Assassin’s Creed
Doom
Super Mario Bros. (1993)
The Super Mario Bros. the Movie (2023) to contrast with the 1993 adaption

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    Troy: The Lack of Divine Existence in Film

    While Ancient Greek tragedies loved to have divine characters speaking on the stage, modern movies seem to hesitate a lot. In the movie Troy (directed by Wolfgang Petersen and written by David Benioff,) no deity appears on the battlefield despite the exciting descriptions of their fight in Homer’s epic. Similar things happen in other movies based on mythology. For instance, Aphrodite never appears in the Argonaut movies, although she is quite important in the epic.
    What might be the reason for this phenomenon?

    • I think this could be explored with other films of the era in a similar vein. What was the cultural shift that removed divinity from films based on myths and how can it be analysed. – Sunni Ago 14 hours ago
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    17th century poetry - the Metaphysicals

    The Metaphysicals refer to a loose collective of poets such as John Donne, George Herbert, Andrew Marvell, Abraham Cowley, Richard Crashaw and Henry Vaughan, who represent some of the highest achievements of the 17th-century English literature. A most conspicuous feature of their style can be described as using images concrete and tangible, richly appealing to human senses and emotions. The label, “Metaphysical,” was attached to them by later generations. “Metaphysical,” as a style label, refers to the so-called “figures of thought” marked by the use of conceits, witticism and paradoxes. But the term still fails to capture the ‘physical’ side of the Metaphysicals – that is, the corporeality, even fleshiness, in their using concrete images and metaphors on the one hand, and expressing sensational feelings and emotions on the other. How, then, do the ‘physical’ and the ‘metaphysical’ meet in 17th century Renaissance poetry? What makes the Metaphysicals ‘metaphysical’? This topic can be explored either by studies of common characteristics of these poets’ works or by close criticism of individual poets.

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      The Trans Advocacy in Across the Spiderverse

      In "Across the Spiderve," while there may not be a trans character, the presence of a trans advocate is an important aspect to explore. As a writer, it’s crucial to consider the following points when delving into this theme:

      Elevating Trans Advocacy: Highlight the role of the trans advocate in the film and their efforts to promote trans visibility and inclusivity. Explore their motivations, struggles, and achievements, emphasizing their dedication to creating a more accepting society.

      Amplifying Trans Voices: Showcase the trans advocate’s journey of advocacy, including their activism, community engagement, and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and challenging societal norms. Emphasize the impact of their work in creating positive change and fostering dialogue.

      Overcoming Obstacles: Address the challenges faced by the trans advocate, such as resistance, discrimination, and backlash. Illustrate how they navigate these obstacles with resilience, determination, and strategic approaches, inspiring others to join their cause.

      Collaborative Approach: Highlight the importance of collaboration between the trans advocate and other communities, organizations, or allies. Explore how they build alliances, bridge gaps, and promote unity in working towards a more inclusive society.

      Empowering Others: Showcase the trans advocate’s efforts to empower individuals within the trans community and beyond. Illustrate how they provide resources, support networks, and platforms for marginalized voices, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging others to embrace their authentic selves.

      By exploring these aspects, you can effectively convey the significance of the trans advocate’s role in "Across the Spiderve" and emphasize the power of advocacy in promoting trans visibility and acceptance in society.

      • Can I write about this one? In the article I can explain the trans advocacy and everything else. – Beatrix Kondo 7 months ago
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      • Hey, I'm *really* interested in taking this topic, once I'm finished with one of the ones that I've already grabbed. I was wondering, though, if it would be okay to talk about Gwen's trans coding throughout a lot of the film? I've been thinking about ways to tie this back to the topic of advocacy, and I feel like that could definitely be part of it, especially if I compare Gwen's comic appearance to how it is in the film. As a member of the community, I really value seeing a topic like this on the site. In any case, please let me know what you think! – Siothrún 5 months ago
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      • I think it is a perfect approach 😊 – Beatrix Kondo 5 months ago
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      • Perfect! I am gathering ideas on this and finishing up some edits on my current topic while also finishing up NanoWriMo, so, I should be able to take this topic soon. – Siothrún 4 months ago
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      Primate Representation in Media

      This topic is concerned with the representation of non-human primates, especially great apes, in television, cinema, music, and more. This topic isn’t necessarily concerned with the quantity of primate representation as much as it is the quality; how they are represented in relation to humans, in relation to their endangerment, habitat loss, mistreatment, evolution, intelligence…etc. Some examples of primate media representation one might consider are: The chimp in Jordan Peele’s "Nope," The Planet of the Apes franchise, meme culture…etc.
      Writers in this topic would be exploring how the current attitudes towards our closest taxonomic relatives is embedded either blatantly or within the subtext of modern media, or how these attitudes have changed overtime. In the Planet of the Apes example, one might write about humanity’s ability to share our planet, or even consider sharing our planet, and what qualities of life are required in a species for us to even begin to consider sharing resources. Just about any example will require writers to discuss the prevalence, or the rare absences, of speciesism in our culture.

      • More details for the person who will write this topic would be much appreciated ;) – Beatrix Kondo 1 month ago
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      • Could you clarify what you're looking for the writer to explore? – Sunni Ago 1 month ago
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      • Regarding the Planet of the Apes franchise, one could consider the representation from the 1968 film in comparison to the more modern films as a bit of a possible starting point. – Siothrún 1 month ago
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      Anakin Skywalker vs Darth Vader: Character Development in Reverse

      Many Star Wars fans consider Anakin Skywalker effectively a different character from Darth Vader. However, analyzing Anakin’s character progression from Jedi to Sith can be very interesting, especially depending on viewing order. For fans of the original trilogy, the prequels’ portrayal of Anakin may have been startling. On the other hand, a chronological viewing, especially one that includes the Clone Wars series, may depict a slow but steady character arc for young Skywalker with a tragic but inevitable conclusion.

      Compare and contrast the two characters. What traits of Anakin’s remain in Darth Vader, and how are they portrayed differently? Where do we see traits of Darth Vader peeking through in Anakin during the prequel era? Does this change how we see other heroes and villains, like Luke Skywalker or Kylo Ren, and even characters from other franchises?

      • Regarding the aspects of Luke and Kylo, it might be useful to look at things that used to be canon in Star Wars, but are no longer. What comes to mind is the comic that likely inspired the Ben Solo in the new trilogy. – Siothrún 3 weeks ago
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      A Decade of BTS: Celebrating Achievements, Impact, and Cultural Contributions

      This topic invites writers to reflect on the first decade anniversary of BTS, one of the most influential K-pop groups globally. Explore and celebrate their journey, from debut to global stardom, and analyze the key milestones and achievements that have defined their success. Delve into BTS’s impact on the music industry, cultural landscape, and fandom culture worldwide. Examine their advocacy work, including social and mental health issues, and discuss how BTS has transcended traditional K-pop boundaries. Reflect on their unique approach to music, storytelling, and the use of social media, and explore the ways in which they have redefined the dynamics of fan engagement. Additionally, consider the challenges faced by BTS and how they have navigated the complexities of fame and global influence over the past ten years.

      • I know absolutely nothing about BTS but from my general understanding their success in the last ten years has catalyzed a growing awareness and appreciation for Korean music (even more broadly, Korean culture) in America (and other nations, I'm sure) in a way not too dissimilar to the Beatles era dubbed the British Invasion. I think a comparison of these two influences could be interesting. – Ryan 1 month ago
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      Shifts in YouTube and the Rise of Short Video Media Like TikTok

      Following the departure of the creator of channels The Game Theorists, Film Theorists, Food Theorists, and Style Theorists, MatPat, from YouTube, there has been discussion about the changes of YouTube’s platform and if viewers of the platform are going to see other long-standing YouTubers leave. In MatPat’s goodbye video, he references other YouTubers who have decided to leave the platform and notes that "the platform is changing". We have also seen the trend of short-style videos in the vein of TikTok rise in popularity. The topic taker should address what changes they see taking place, possibly using the host of recent goodbye videos as a jumping off point, for the web-video platforms and analyze what those trends might mean for others looking to get into the content creation space.

      The topic taker is free to include the psychological impact of content creation, especially with the constant stream of short-form videos, has on a person. In addition, the topic taker can compare and contrast the platforms of YouTube and TikTok on multiple levels, such as monetization strategies and algorithms if they wish in order to predict where the trends might be going and indicate what those trends suggest for viewers and creators alike.

      MatPat’s Farwell: (link)

        Film

        Godzilla: Japan’s Journey and Relations with the World in Recent Films
        Godzilla: Japan’s Journey and Relations with the World in Recent Films
        Corner Office: The Danger of the Isolation
        Click: A Tragic Tale Exploring the Importance of Family
        Alienation in “There will be Blood”

        TV

        Mystic Pop-Up Bar: Unearthing This Underrated Gem
        Mystic Pop-Up Bar: Unearthing This Underrated Gem
        How Andor Uses Audio to Explore Oppression and Rebellion
        From Mythology to the MCU: Egyptian and Norse
        Bridgerton’s Reimagining of Regency Society

        Animation

        Superman vs. The Elite: What is Justice?
        Superman vs. The Elite: What is Justice?
        Villains of the Shrek Universe: From Nursery Rhymes to the Grim Reaper
        Laika and the Power of Eyes: A Soul’s Quest for Self-Possession
        Disney Protagonists and the Seven Deadly Sins

        Anime

        The Ick: Anime Tropes that Repel Viewers
        The Ick: Anime Tropes that Repel Viewers
        Male-Female Friendships in Anime: Can We Really Be Just Friends?
        Demon Slayer — The Silent Oppression of Nezuko
        Hallyu & Anime: A More Than Welcome Ongoing Love Story

        Manga

        One-Punch Man’s Saitama: The Alienation of a Hero
        One-Punch Man’s Saitama: The Alienation of a Hero
        Vagabond: Beautiful Lessons in Takehiko Inoue’s Manga
        Exploring the impact of social medias through Helter Skelter and Black Mirror’s Nosedive
        Berserk, Sisyphus, and The Indomitable Human Spirit

        Comics

        Superman, Alienation, and Evil
        Superman, Alienation, and Evil
        Why Don’t Superheroes Change the World?
        Continuity and Connectivity in Comic Book Movies
        Comics in Education: Benefits and attitudes

        Literature

        1984: What Does it Tell us About The Purpose of Life?
        1984: What Does it Tell us About The Purpose of Life?
        Classic Literature’s “Infinity Girls”
        Reinventing Beth March
        Poe’s Horror: Reading “The Fall of The House of Usher”

        Arts

        The Creative Industries in Bangladesh: The Case of Coke Studio Bangla’s “Deora”
        The Creative Industries in Bangladesh: The Case of Coke Studio Bangla’s “Deora”
        Japan: Art, Eroticism, and Religion
        Why Should We Separate Real Art From NFTs of the Bored Ape Yacht Club Type?
        Tehching Hsieh: The Experience of Time and Duration in Performance Art

        Writing

        Is the Pen Mightier Than the Keyboard?
        Is the Pen Mightier Than the Keyboard?
        Whump And Its Role Outside of Fandom
        Movement and Location: A Brief Comment on Meaning in the Literary Experience
        Writing About Place