pop culture
Modern popular culture topics in the geek sphere.
The 'Doctor Strange' Controversy: Is Marvel Whitewashing?
With Marvel’s Doctor Strange on the verge of hitting theaters everywhere, the conversation regarding it is only getting louder ---- and, with that, the controversy. Said controversy kicked off the moment the film’s casting was announced, which is when it was revealed that the role of the Ancient One (an elderly Tibetan man in the comics) would be filled by . . . the white British actress Tilda Swinton. Cries of whitewashing were immediately out in full force, especially given the recent protests over Scarlett Johansson’s casting in the upcoming Ghost in the Shell remake. Here in Doctor Strange we have yet another Asian character being played by a white person. Pretty blatant, right?
Anne St. MariePublished 8 years ago in GeeksMovies and TV That Helped Shape the Modern Superhero Universe
With the recent release of Marvel’s Luke Cage on Netflix, and its overwhelming popularity, it’s not hard to see the impact that superheroes have on our culture. The show is a great example of the clever, in-your-face, modern superhero entertainment Marvel has been providing us with for almost ten years now.
Alysha DePernaPublished 8 years ago in GeeksFunniest Webcomics for Gamer Geeks
From classics like Penny Arcade and VG Cats to newer strips like Intelligent Life, these satirical webcomics poke fun at gamers and geek culture while sharing inside jokes that never make it to mainstream comics and cartoons. Put down the controllers for long enough to dive into some of the best webcomics for gamers and geeks and emerge validated.
Sarah QuinnPublished 8 years ago in GeeksThe Best Fandom Culture Podcasts
The online world of geek podcasting is pretty vast and filled with just about any niche you can think of. However, the one downside - especially for us ladies - is that many of the top fan shows that exist are run by dudes.
Alysha DePernaPublished 8 years ago in GeeksDressing Up, The Geeky Way
From sedate to sexy, these amazing dresses are all you ever dreamed of in your adorable geeky heart. Maybe you’re a serious scientists or programmer; maybe you’re just extremely serious about superheros or video games or Captain Malcolm Reynolds (*dreamy sigh*). Whatever your passion, wear it not just on your sleeve but all over when you’re out to a holiday party, a formal dance, or just out to dinner. These are conversation starters and comfortable evening wear at the same time and most are a good deal more affordable than what some of us probably spent on a lame-o prom dress back in the day (and by lame-o I mean not covered in Batman print). Now go rock it girl - geek style!
Sarah QuinnPublished 8 years ago in GeeksMost Binge-Worthy Fantasy Webcomics (And They're Safe for Work, Too)
There’s a slew of superb fantasy webcomics to choose from these days, but some of them could get you fired (think Oglaf, one of the most notoriously NSFW fantasy strips on the internet). But you don’t have to be bored at work just because sex and graphic violence are off-the-table. These safe for work comics aren’t just for kids - gorgeously illustrated strips like Stand Still. Stay Silent and A Redtail’s Dream will keep you enthralled, while funny, sweet stories like Digger and Monster Pulse are just the thing to break up your week. Click away with no fear that your coworker is about to report you - unless they’re keen on reporting your great taste in amazing fantasy webcomics.
Sarah QuinnPublished 8 years ago in GeeksHollywood Vs. Television
For decades, going to the movies was a great way Americans consumed media. They would see cartoons, get their news, and see silent film. In 1927 and on, films would have sound and narratives became much more powerful.
Marina Caitlin WattsPublished 8 years ago in GeeksThe Best Gender-Swapped Comic Book Characters
Every once in a while, comic book characters are in for a serious makeover, whether it’s because sales are dragging, or there's been a fundamental change in the comic book universe that requires men to be ladies (it happens) or just simply because someone got bored and drew Batman with boobs.
Alysha DePernaPublished 8 years ago in GeeksThe Best Gifts for Wonder Woman Fangirls
Sometimes life is an uphill battle and you just need a reminder that it’s worth fighting for. Whether you’re the one who loves everything about Wonder Woman or you’ve got a friend who idolizes her, you’ll be delighted to discover that you’re not alone. From caped socks to inclusive art to astonishing historical non-fiction, there’s a great big world out there of Wonder Woman goodness to enjoy. When you’re having a rough day, you can throw on your favorite superhero shirt or ring and tackle it like a woman. And as Queen Hippolyte says, “...go in peace, and remember that in a world of ordinary mortals, you are a Wonder Woman.”
Sarah QuinnPublished 8 years ago in GeeksSo You Loved The Undertaker? Meet The Supernatural Stars of Today's WWE
Whenever you grew up within the long (long) career of The Undertaker, you probably thought he was pretty cool. Heck, you most likely thought this even if you were an adult. The Undertaker’s gone through a few different phases of his character over the years, but, through everything, he’s always stayed cool. Apparently the combo of black leather and vague necromancy just has that timeless appeal. And the man can roll his eyes right back in his head ---- c’mon, that’s pretty impressive all on its own.
Anne St. MariePublished 8 years ago in GeeksSweet Revenge: Watch Underdog Girls Weaponize Dessert
There’s more than one way to have a food fight. Sure, sometimes flinging your lunch around the room can be a blast, but you don’t have to get covered head to toe in mashed potatoes to have a good time - and get what’s yours. When it comes to taking edible revenge and showing the bad guys who’s boss, geek girls are the best at getting creative. I mean ANYBODY can have a food fight, and a lot of people can have a pie fight, but smashing a chocolate ice cream cone into a cheerleader’s clean white uniform? That’s style. It’s definitely a dirty fight when food’s involved, but an underdog girl has gotta do whatever it takes, no matter how messy the method. Enjoy the following clips from movies where underdog girls (and women) used sugary treats in many forms to stick it to the man and get sweet, sweet revenge.
Sarah QuinnPublished 8 years ago in GeeksI Think We Should Talk Midi-Chlorians
Spoiler Alerts: This article contains spoilers for Star Wars Episodes I – VII . It assumes the reader has knowledge of all those films…so if you have not seen them all, then proceed at your own risk!
Matt CatesPublished 8 years ago in Geeks