Legion M, backed by its more than 100,000 members and 16,000 fan-owners, returns to San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) for its biggest activation yet, hosting star-studded events, industry parties, two fascinating panels—including an in-depth look at Legion M and Screen Media’s feature-length documentary “Memory: The Origins of Alien” which was acquired early this year at Sundance using Legion M’s innovative Film Scout platform—and amazing experiences for SDCC attendees to celebrate the power of fandom and see first-hand how the world’s first fan-owned entertainment company is revolutionizing Hollywood.
Legion M’s SDCC event schedule includes the late night (Friday, July 19 at 10 p.m. PDT) fan-premiere of the critically-acclaimed Sundance favorite “Memory: The Origins of Alien” followed by a special Q&A with the film’s director Alexandre O. Philippe (“78/52,” “The People vs. George Lucas,” “Doc of the Dead”) in the all-new TCL Chinese Theatre at Theatre Box®. The feature-length film, which premiered to rave reviews in the Midnight Section at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, unearths the largely untold origin story behind Ridley Scott’s cinematic masterpiece, and reveals a treasure trove of never-before-seen materials from the archives of “Alien” creators Dan O’Bannon and H.R. Giger. “Memory: The Origins of Alien” screening and Q&A hosted by Legion M and Screen Media is a must-see SDCC event for “Alien” fans celebrating the epic horror/Sci-Fi film’s 40th anniversary. Ticket information for the screening is coming soon on the legionm.com website!
Legion M’s Fan Lounge, presented by The Pop Insider, will take over Gaslamp Quarter’s Theatre Box and its brand-new Chocolate Lounge and rooftop bar and lounge at 701 Fifth Ave. (Fifth Ave. and G St.). SDCC attendees can grab a cocktail (cash bar), relax, recharge and enjoy a full slate of fan-centric activities, appearances, giveaways and exclusive events on Thursday and Friday, July 18-19 (12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. PDT) acomic con
Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PDT). Inside, The Pop Insider, a daily pop culture news and review site for superfans, will give SDCC attendees a chance to “Fuel Their Fandom” with special Angry Birds phone charging stations. Fans can also stay up-to-date with all things pop culture by picking up the Con-exclusive, limited print edition of The Pop Insider magazine.
The Pop Insider will also be hosting a series of afternoon events and activities on the Theatre Box rooftop bar and lounge from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. PDT each day July 18-21, including a cosplay dance party and karaoke showdown. Cosplayers looking for a quick spruce-up can stop by the Cosplayer Repair and Pro-Artist Makeup Station sponsored by Spirit Halloween, get professional photos taken to commemorate the occasion, and may even star in an upcoming “Cosplayers Getting Coffee” YouTube episode. For the most up-to-date Legion M Fan Lounge and rooftop schedule, please visit www.legionm.com/sdcc2019. Activities will be added as confirmed.
Be sure to also check out two Legion M-hosted panels at San Diego Comic-Con. On Thursday, July 18 (7:15 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. PDT, Room 6BCF), “Fans Celebrating 40 Years of Alien,” co-hosted with Screen Media, will take a deep dive into the origins of “Alien” and its fandom while celebrating the classic horror/Sci-Fi film with the director of “Memory: The Origins of Alien” Alexandre O. Philippe, along with Legion M’s vice president of development David Baxter, Diane O’Bannon (Dan O’Bannon Estate), Will Linn (Joseph Campbell Foundation) and other special guests as they discuss Philippe’s upcoming feature documentary and debut the trailer for “Memory: The Origins of Alien.”
On Thursday, July 18 (2 p.m. to 3 p.m. PDT, Room 7AB) learn how you can become part of a Hollywood revolution and get involved directly in films, TV shows and digital content when Legion M executives host “Legion M: Fans Unite to Take Over Hollywood.” Legion M cofounders Paul Scanlan and Jeff Annison, along with Legion M COO and head of content Terri Lubaroff, vice president of development David Baxter and special guests, will reveal how Legion M is involved with films like the upcoming Kevin Smith “Jay and Silent Bob Reboot,” along with “Colossal,” “Mandy,” “Tolkien,” and “Memory: The Origins of Alien.” Legion M has made it possible for anyone to become a fan-owner. Find out how you can join the more than 100,000 Legion M members who have access to special screenings, industry events, and exclusive Legion M meet-ups.
Legion M 2019 San Diego Comic-Con Fan Lounge and Events Calendar
(All times Pacific)
To sign up for Legion M SDCC activation information: www.legionm.com/sdcc2019
Wed., July 17 (7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.) The Pop Insider San Diego Con Kickoff Event!, Coin-Op Game Room, 789 Sixth Ave.
Fuel Your Fandom at the ultimate Con kickoff party! The Pop Insider is hosting a can’t-miss pre-Con rager complete with retro gaming, dancing, giveaways and more, with Legion M, Spin Master Games, ARCADE1UP, Disguise, Inc., and Cosplayers Getting Coffee. This event is sold out. Limited press passes are still available. Members of the media can contact Kristen Joerger at kristen@lkprinc.com or 646-484-4577 to apply for press credentials. (Age 21+)
Thurs. and Fri., July 18-19 (12:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m.) and Sat. and Sun., July 20-21 (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) Legion M Fan Lounge presented by The Pop Insider @ Theatre Box Chocolate Lounge
Relax, recharge and have FUN at the Legion M Fan Lounge presented by The Pop Insider every day during San Diego Comic-Con. Mix and mingle with friends, Legion M executives and members, and other SDCC attendees while celebrating the power of FANDOM in the fan lounge. Fans will enter the Legion M Fan Lounge through a 45-foot facade of the Quick Stop featured in the upcoming Kevin Smith feature film “Jay and Silent Bob Reboot.” The perfect SDCC photo opp will feature props from the actual Quick Stop set!
Thurs. and Fri., July 18-19 (12:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m.) and Sat. and Sun., July 20-21 (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.), Stargate Command, Theatre Box
MGM’s Stargate Command will present a replica “Stargate” photo opportunity in the Theatre Box lobby for the whole weekend and will give attendees a chance to spin the prize wheel for unique “Stargate” prizes, including mini-posters, pins, buttons, original SuperFan creations and more! Talent will be dropping by for autographs as well! Look for more information about schedules, podcasts, and more fun all weekend! www.stargatecommand.co/articles/events
Thurs., July 18 – Sun., July 21 (12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.) The Pop Insider’s Rooftop Pop-up Party! @ Theatre Box Rooftop Bar and Lounge
Join The Pop Insider as they “Fuel Your Fandom” with fan-focused events on the Theatre Box rooftop bar and lounge each day, including a cosplay dance party with DJ (12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m.) and karaoke showdown (2:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.). Stop by the Cosplayer Repair Station and Pro-Artist Makeup Station sponsored by Spirit Halloween any time!
Thurs., July 18 (2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.) “Legion M: Fans Unite to Take Over Hollywood” Panel, Room 7AB, San Diego Comic-Con
How can YOU become part of Hollywood, and get involved directly in films, TV shows and digital content? Legion M is the world’s first fan-owned entertainment company. Through equity crowdfunding, we’ve made it possible for anyone to become an entertainment investor and fan-owner. And it’s more than simply being a “shareholder,” members have access to special screenings, industry events, and exclusive Legion M meet-ups. Our panel of Legion M executives Paul Scanlan, Jeff Annison, Terri Lubaroff, David Baxter and special guests will reveal how Legion M is involved with films like “Bad Samaritan,” “Colossal,” “Mandy,” “Tolkien,” our latest films “Jay and Silent Bob Reboot,” directed by Kevin Smith (“Clerks” and “Dogma”), as well as “Memory: The Origins of Alien” directed by pop culture documentarian Alexandre O. Philippe (“The People vs. George Lucas”). Updates will also be provided on Legion M projects in development.
Thurs., July 18 (7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.) “Madness in the Method” sneak preview, TCL Chinese Theatre at Theatre Box
“Madness in the Method” – Jason Mewes’ (“Clerks,” “Mallrats,” “Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back”) directorial debut is a hilariously insane crime comedy in which Mewes also stars, alongside Vinnie Jones, Gina Carano, Danny Trejo, and his View Askew costars Kevin Smith, Stan Lee, and Brian O’Halloran. Mewes will participate in a special Q&A after the debut screening. Ticket info coming soon!
Thurs., July 18 (7:15 p.m.-8:15 p.m.) “Fans Celebrating 40 Years of Alien” Panel, Room 6BCF, San Diego Comic-Con
A deep dive into the origins of “Alien” and its fandom with documentary director Alexandre O. Philippe (“The People vs. George Lucas,” “Doc of the Dead,” “78/52: Hitchcock’s Shower Scene”), Diane O’Bannon (Dan O’Bannon Estate), Will Linn (Joseph Campbell Foundation), David Baxter (Legion M) and special guests as they discuss Philippe’s upcoming feature documentary “Memory: The Origins of Alien” and the sustaining power of Ridley Scott’s horror/Sci-Fi masterpiece with fandom. Trailer debut from the “Memory: The Origins of Alien” documentary will be shown.
Fri., July 19 (10:00 p.m.- 12:00 a.m.) “Memory: The Origins of Alien” Fan Premiere and Q&A, Theater Box
Come see the critically-acclaimed documentary “Memory: The Origins of Alien” followed by a special Q&A with the film’s director Alexandre O. Philippe (“The People vs. George Lucas,” “Doc of the Dead”). The feature-length film, which premiered to rave reviews in the Midnight Section at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival, unearths the largely untold origin story behind Ridley Scott’s cinematic masterpiece, and reveals a treasure trove of never-before-seen materials from the archives of “Alien” creators Dan O’Bannon and H.R. Giger, including original story notes, rejected designs and storyboards, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, and O’Bannon’s original 29 page script from 1971, titled Memory. The documentary also takes fans on an exploration of the mythical underpinnings of “Alien” and dedicates focus on the film’s iconic “Chestburster” scene. “Memory: The Origins of Alien” screening and Q&A hosted by Legion M and Screen Media is a must-see SDCC event for “Alien” fans celebrating the epic horror/Sci-Fi film’s 40th anniversary. Ticket info coming soon at www.legionm.com/sdcc2019!
Sat., July 20 (10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.) The Night Time Show, Legion M Fan Lounge @ Theatre Box
Hosted by Nickelodeon star Stephen Kramer Glickman, Mike Black, Matt Walker, and Emmy Nominated writer Mike Glazer, The Night Time Show is one of the top entertainment industry podcasts in America. They are teaming up with Legion M and ASIFA to record interviews with award winning actors, legendary directors and industry giants.
Sun, July 21 (3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.) Potterhead Party, The Pop Insider’s Cosplay Dance Party on the Roof @ Theatre Box’s Rooftop Bar and Lounge, with Fantastic Beasts Dan Fogler podcast recording.
Join Legion M and The Pop Insider to close out SDCC with a Potter-themed event with giveaways, potion drinks, and a cosplay meetup, featuring star of Fantastic Beasts Dan Fogler! Then, join Dan as he records his popular podcast 4dXperience! from the roof at 5:30 p.m. Ticket information to follow on www.legionm.com/sdcc2019
For more information about Legion M and the Legion M Fan Lounge at San Diego Comic-Con, please visit www.legionm.com/sdcc2019. Be sure to follow Legion M on Instagram and Twitter at @LegionMOfficial for more SDCC announcements!
TW: Discussions of child abuse and neglect.
The sitcom Scrubs ran from 2001- 2010 delighting viewers with the escapades of daydreaming Dr ‘JD’ Dorian and his friends. Unlike most TV sitcoms Scrubs perfectly balanced the comedic and the tragic. Being set in a teaching hospital with most of the main cast being doctors; there was plenty of fodder for some truly heart-wrenching storylines.
Like with most sitcoms, if you look under the jolly veneer (and have too much time on your hands) a much darker story emerges. In Scrubs, I would argue, this may be the past of its titular protagonist JD (played by Zach Braff). Some fans (ok, me) speculate that not only did JD have a less than ideal childhood but an abusive one.
Hints of this could be interpretated throughout the series:-
1. Attachment to Dr Cox
One of the most popular aspects of the series is the oddly touching relationship between mentor and mentee: Dr Cox (John C McGinley) and JD. It’s perfectly normal to admire and want to emulate an older colleague. But JD’s admiration of Dr Cox always seemed to go a step further. JD looked to the older doc as not only a mentor but a father figure.
JD explicitly states this throughout the series. Most notably in the finale; when during his much sought after hug JD claims Dr Cox smells “like a father figure”. This is odd as Dr Cox is only about 13 years JD’s senior. We know JD’s biological father (played by the late John Ritter) was pretty much absent during JD’s childhood. Is this yearning for a parental figure a way to fix JD’s damaged childhood?
As loathe as I am to criticise a fan favourite but Dr Cox openly mocks and belittles JD, almost never referring to his protégé by name. Instead by a vast archive of disparaging nicknames. The show does establish that there is love and respect om both sides, from Dr Cox deep down (deep, deep down). But why does JD not only put up with as well as seek out this treatment? Very masochistic. Or, has JD been subconsciously taught that taunts and aggression equate to love?
2. Feels Affinity with Dr Cox and Elliot
The show establishes early on that Dr Cox had an abusive homelife as a child. He openly reminisces about his parents being violent alcoholics. Is this the real reason that JD clamours for Dr Cox’s attention? Does JD see Dr Cox as an inspiration of someone who came from a similar background to his and became a well-respected doctor and family man?
Is the same true of JD’s on/off girlfriend, future wife and fellow doctor; Elliot? The show establishes that Elliot’s parents are mentally, emotionally, and financially abusive. Are JD and Elliot drawn to one another (partly) because they are both traumatised by their past? Even when it is proven time and time again that they are not suited.
3. Hostile Relationship with Older Brother
JD’s older brother Dan (Tom Cavanagh) appears several times in the show. Despite regularly visiting his kid brother, JD makes clear that these visits are not welcomed. JD’s ire is uncharacteristic as he’s shown as an ardent people pleaser throughout the show. Yes, Dan did bully JD throughout their childhood, though it’s unclear whether this was normal sibling rivalry or more.
In Series 3 Episode 5 ‘My Brother, Where Art Thou?’ JD attempts to cut off contact with Dan claiming that Dan never looked out for him. Even as children of divorce why is JD so upset his brother didn’t protect or “come through” for him? In the same scene JD comments about how their mother “married anyone that rang the doorbell”. Reading into this (hey, it’s what we’re here for) did Dan not protect JD from these multiple husbands?
4. Audience Never Actually See JD’s Mother
To me this is the most obvious that something is suspicious about the Dorian matriarch. Despite seeing every other cast members mother (except Dr Cox but its implied that his parents are dead) we never see JD’s. He, at the very least, seems to have a good relationship with his mother. Mostly speaks highly of her and she calls often. It doesn’t follow the trope many sitcoms use; having a character the audience never physically sees being used for comedic effect.
We hear JD’s mum (Barbara) speak in a flashback (Series 3 Episode 21 ‘My Self-Examination’). While Barbara was tucking young JD into bed she was saying some quite toxic things to her child, like how no women will ever be good enough for him. It is clear this scene is supposed to be somewhat creepy as Barbara is stroking the child’s face in an inappropriate manner. Adult JD even refers to his mum as “sexy” in the same episode. Very Freudian but in the light of everything else we are discussing: very disturbing!
5. JD’s Mother Drank
Linked to number 4 JD admits in Series 8 Episode 2 ‘My Last Words’ JD admits his mum “drank a lot”. Does this statement answer some questions about JD’s odd childhood?
6. JD is a People Pleaser
As we have already mentioned JD is a pathological people pleaser (what’s that like?). As a doctor he goes above and beyond for his patients. He does everything from finding patients estranged family members (Series 4 Episode 11 ‘My Unicorn’) to shaving his head in solidarity with a chemo patient (Series 5 Episode 15 ‘My Extra Mile’). Of course this is all very commendable but JD particularly enjoys the gratitude. Why does he need this validation? Is this a coping mechanism from a turbulent background who had to go above and beyond to get the love that should have been unconditional?
7. Extremely Tactile
Another of JD’s character traits is he extremely tactile. This is of course played up for comedy with his ‘sneak hugs’ (Series 6 Episode 13 ‘My Scrubs’) delivered to the stand-offish Dr Cox or the fact he has his friends on a ‘hugging schedule’ (Series 5 Episode 8 ‘My Big Bird’). Is this someone trying to seek the love and affection he never received in childhood? Or reassure himself that the people he loves won’t disappear?
8. Self-Sabotaging
A common reaction to childhood trauma is self-sabotaging behaviour. In his romantic relationships JD has this in spades. Throughout the run of the show JD has more romantic partners than the rest of cast put together. It is acknowledged that JD goes from relationship to relationship with alarming speed and breaks them off for shallow reasons. Again, he may be trying to seek the love and security he never had in childhood.
JD’s damaged psyche is put on full display when after spending the majority of the series chasing Elliot she finally leaves her loving boyfriend for him. JD immediately decides he doesn’t want her anymore to many fans outrage (Series 3 Episode 20 ‘My Fault’).
9. No Therapy
As well as never actually seeing his mother, we never see JD engaged in any kind of therapy. All of the other characters attend various types of therapy throughout the series. JD does not, despite arguably needing it the most. Is JD perhaps too scared of what therapy might uncover or not want to deal with his trauma head on?
10. Overactive Imagination
During Scrubs entire run (except the final series thou shalt not be named) hinges on JD’s overactive imagination. His outlandish fantasies make for excellent comedy and unique sequiturs to break up the storylines. But what if this was yet another coping mechanism for the hapless leading man?
Children from challenging background often disappear into elaborate fantasy worlds in order to escape their surroundings. Is this a habit JD could never quite kick? It would explain why he doesn’t seem to have a lot of control of his daydreaming despite being an adult. It is a comfort and a way to deal with the difficult stuff life throws at him.
If any or all of these speculations are true Scrubs goes from being a mere half-hour sitcom to a story of one man’s triumph over his dark past. Despite his flaws and failings JD has still made something of himself and is surrounded by his chosen family; all of whom love him for who he is. This is extremely inspiring.
“Mufasa: The Lion King” is a visually stunning addition to the beloved Lion King franchise, offering a fresh and emotionally resonant take on the origins of one of Disney’s most iconic characters. The film beautifully explores Mufasa’s journey, balancing heartfelt moments with touches of comedy that lighten the mood and make the story accessible to audiences of all ages. The animation is breathtaking, capturing the vibrant landscapes and lush environments of the Pride Lands, adding depth to Mufasa’s character and his relationships.
The storytelling is compelling, effectively pulling at the heartstrings while providing insights into Mufasa’s character before he becomes the legendary king. However, the setup for Scar’s betrayal feels somewhat underdeveloped, lacking the deeper motivation that could have enriched their complex brotherly relationship. This missed opportunity leaves a slight gap in understanding Scar’s actions, which could have elevated the dramatic stakes.
The musical score is impressive, featuring memorable songs that enhance the emotional impact of pivotal scenes. While there are several standout tracks, one song, in particular, resonates deeply and is sure to linger in viewers’ minds long after the credits roll. Overall, “Mufasa: The Lion King” is an amazing film and a worthy addition to the Lion King lore that manages to deliver both laughter and tears, offering a rich tapestry of storytelling that fans will appreciate.
“Kraven the Hunter,” directed by J.C. Chandor, aims to introduce a beloved Spider-Man villain to the big screen, but unfortunately, it falls short of expectations. The film suffers from noticeable issues, notably an overuse of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), which detracts from the authenticity of the characters’ interactions and contributes to an uneven audio experience. This technical flaw is compounded by rough storytelling that feels disjointed and lacking in coherence, leaving viewers struggling to connect with the narrative.
Aaron Taylor-Johnson delivers a commendable performance as Kraven, showcasing the character’s gritty nature and complex motivations. His portrayal has potential, and it’s evident that he could elevate the character far beyond what is presented with a stronger script and direction. However, the absence of Spider-Man, a central figure in Kraven’s lore, leaves a void that the film struggles to fill. Without this critical connection, the plot meanders and fails to create the tension or stakes that fans of the superhero genre crave.
Additionally, including Rhino as a villain feels like a missed opportunity; he is presented more as a gag character with limited screen time, undermining any sense of threat or depth. For the average moviegoer, “Kraven the Hunter” might entertain but ultimately feels like a mediocre viewing experience. Comic book fans, however, may find disappointment in this lackluster attempt to create a solo character film. Instead of an exhilarating dive into Kraven’s world, the film presents a watered-down version, leaving audiences wishing for a more cohesive vision that honors its comic book roots.
Did JD from Scrubs Have a Dark Past?
‘Mufasa: The Lion King’ Will Leave You Breathless
Is ‘Kraven the Hunter’ a Total Letdown?
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