Hi everybody,

Well I was lucky enough to be invited to the UK premier of the new Ultramarines Movie and wanted to let everybody know what I thought of it.

I have to say I had a great day, and full credit to Codex pictures for organising it as I hope that the feedback from all of us there will put a few people's minds at rest regarding the movie.

We were all asked to come to a "secret" location in London's Soho to see the movie and chat to some of the producers.

I have to admit that there was a lot of free beer at the event which is why I didn't get around to posting my review last night, and if you check out the Beasts of War video coverage you might see me giving a pretty bleary eyed interview!

Anyway I digress.

Before we got to see the movie one of the producers of Codex pictures gave a short introduction which was very informative.

To set matters straight with a lot of people this is NOT a Games Workshop product. GW are approached on a daily basis with offers to make a 40k movie, including offers from Hollywood, and they up until now have always turned them down.

This is mainly because GW aren't really a company that is interested in entering the film business, and more importantly want to protect their intellectual property fiercely which is often an issue when converting it to film.

The Hollywood producers always ask how they can get a love interest in there and of course that isn't something we necessarily want to see (well not most if us anyway!).

However Codex pictures approached them and they were the first film company who appeared to want to stay true to the look and feel of the Universe, but more importantly wanted to make a film for the 40K core fanbase. They weren't interested in watering down the content to make the film accessible to a wider audience and this was one of the deciding factors that led to the film being approved.

GW approved the film, but that is pretty much where their involvement ends. Codex pictures are a small independent UK film company. They had to raise all of the funds for this movie themselves. GW have not given them a penny and I think this needs to be cleared up as a lot of people are expecting a Hollywood style blockbuster which just wasn't ever going to happpen.

Animation is very expensive to produce. The cut scenes in Dawn of War for example cost around £3 million but only have a running time of a few minutes. This is a 75 minute movie which is self funded and so was never going to be of that quality.

However Codex Pictures also said that they wanted to go in a different direction to the Dawn of War animations, and make something stylistically different which captured the atmosphere of the 40K Universe, and I definitely think they have achieved this.

The movie is being released as a limited edition DVD on 29th November and this includes a graphic novel and a second disk of extras which apparently have lots of cool material on, like a history of the Space marines, interviews with the cast, cut scenes etc.

A lot of people have said the DVD is expensive, but this again is because Codex pictures have had to fund the release for this themselves as well, and wanted to produce a proper 40K style product. There will be a Worldwide DVD release which will be cheaper, but won't have all the extras. This is expected at around March next year.

There are also plans to produce other merchandise, like a making of book, soundtrack (which is cool) and art prints etc from the movie.

Ok so enough of my babbling here's what I thought of the movie.

I have been asked to not give away too much of the plot, so please don't ask me how it ends or who the baddies are etc. You'll have to wait for the movie.

The movie itself centers around Ultima Squad - 5th Tactical Squad Second Company Ultramarines.

The squad is made up of new initiates, Space marines who have made it through Scout training and are now fully fledged Marines. The squad has yet to taste full combat. There is a mention of a mission they are returning from, but little information is given about this, however the graphic novel in the limited edition release explains this. They however don't feel it was a real mission and are hungering for some proper action.

They are being led by Captain Severus and an Apothocary named Python and are on their way back to Macragge when they receive a distress call from a nearby system.

They decide to investigate as the distress call comes from an Imperial Fists Shrine World, and although they are only one squad they need to see if there are any survivors and report back to Macragge.

The Shrine World was defended by a full company of Imperial Fists. The fifth Company. But there has been no response from them, and Captain Severus needs to find out if the distress beacon is on auto cycle or if there are survivors.

I won't give any more than that away, anyone who has watched the trailer will know who the enemy are, but I don't want to give away any more details in case I spoil it for anybody.

I just want to say that the trailer does not do this film any justice.

I think whenever you see a few seconds of CGI on a small computer monitor it is never going to be that great.

However the film is paced beautifully and the script is very good. Okay there are some cheesey one liners and the story is classic 40K which can sometimes be predictable but that didn't bother me.

What I liked about the movie was the tension. Ultima Sqaud are constantly being watched, and only Brother Proteus seems aware of this, and you really get the sense of tension that he is feeling.

The movie also builds up to the action. I was worried that at only 75 minutes the build up would be slow and we wouldn't see any action until the last few minutes, but that wasn't the case, there is a lot of action, or as my mate said "Space Marines blowing amphetamine parrot up!".

The animation is by no means perfect. The walk cycles are a little off and I wasn't keen on some of the facial animation, but it really doesn't matter because when you combine the script, the fantastic voice acting and the graet sound effects you won't really notice.

What I liked were the little nods to the table top game. The Imperial Fists Bastion looks like it is made up Shrine of the Aquilla and bastion / Aegis Defence Line kits in places. And there is even a Giant Space Marine statue that the marines have to use as a makeshift bridge! And the Stained Glass window in the Strike Cruiser's chapel is the art from the boxed game.

The Land Speeder also looks really cool, exactly how I imagined it to look. I just wish we got to see it fire it's Multi Melta!

Anyway, I came out with a big grin on my face and talked about the movie for hours after so I think that's a good sign. I really enjoyed it and would encourage anybody who hasn't done so yet to order their copy, as they won't be disappointed.

It isn't perfect, but I honestly think it is close as we will ever get to a 40K movie that adheres to the look, feel and history of the hobby. If there had been more money then yes the animation may heve been better, but they couldn't have improved the voice acting, direction and style of the movie.

Codex pictures are looking at doing a limited Cinema release of the movie next year, and the standard DVD and Blu Ray editions will be out next spring.

I would also ask people to get behind this movie, as they really want to make more but won't be able to if this one is not a commercial success.

I applaud Codex Pictures for doing this, they really have done it all on their own and I would love them to be successful. Not just because I want to see more, but because I really appreciate what they have done for 40K fans.

Thnx for the review!

Cilithan

Thanks for the review, I am looking forward to it now more than ever before.

Yup, that still sounds very cool to me. Anything with the Ultrasmurfs in it is a win from my point of view...But then, I'd buy an Ultramarine Lunchbox if they made them...and if I still went to school where I could show off such a classy product!

Thanks! Sounds like it will be worth a buy.

While I still wont buy it, I am looking forward to renting it out and watching it, especially if it is as good as you say it is.

Lets all just hope that StraightSilver isn't secretly working for Codex and advertising. That would peeve me off.

Really now..

I am just glad it does not suck, which is what is the general trend for this sort of film. Can't wait to see it.

Thanks for the detailed review, I found it -far- more informative than the BOLS review. Kudos!

Latro_ over at Warseer (http://www.warseer.com/forums/showthread.php?p=5117307#post5117307) with a similar review.

Thank you for your review

Nice review. Glad to see someone who can understand some of the shortcomings and not just whine "ZOMG its not Avatar quality, WTF?". From some of the threads Ive read it seems many are simply expecting far too much from this.

A note for those who complain about the DVD cost...sure its pricey, but think of it this way...by purchasing a copy and showing support for the studio, concept, etc it may help secure not only a sequel/second movie but perhaps help the studio obtain loans or other sources of funding making subsequent movies that much better.

I can't wait to get my copy now, thanks for the review!

Ooo, you´we convinced me, I´m so buying the special release edition now!

Great Review

Still have reservations about it, but I'm a lot more hopeful about it! Thanks for the review!

Thanks for the review! It confirms both my hopes and concerns! Will make it a point to see the movie.

A movie should not need beer goggles so the copious free booze at the premier has me concerned. Might have to replicate that with vodka since I'm picky about animation.

The cut scenes in Dawn of War for example cost around £3 million but only have a running time of a few minutes.

A dollar amount given by a studio can never be trusted since Hollywood accounting runs strong in all entertainment media to inflate claimed costs.

Sounds good, and I didnt even know it was being released so soon.

I stopped reading as soon as you got apologetic about Codex Picture's financial situation.

You shouldn't have to make excuses for a movie when you're reviewing it. You should be reviewing it at face value.

StraightSilver wrote:A lot of people have said the DVD is expensive, but this again is because Codex pictures have had to fund the release for this themselves as well, and wanted to produce a proper 40K style product. There will be a Worldwide DVD release which will be cheaper, but won't have all the extras. This is expected at around March next year.

I really liked your review, this simply stood out and is not aimed at you but rather any bussiness involving GW products.

In the age of the internet and its zero cost well pirating, does it seem like a good idea to make something more expensive to make money? If we were talking real minis from GW sure hard to get em elsewhere, but not when digital media are involed. Or print media just the same.
Either English bussinessmen dont understand pirating or theres some GW-related virus that makes you think that more money per product also means more money overall.....

This is NOT an advertisement to do something illegal.

But Russians trying to grab and crack anything for e-cred the day its released should have been a sure sign.

Mad4Minis wrote:Nice review. Glad to see someone who can understand some of the shortcomings and not just whine "ZOMG its not Avatar quality, WTF?". From some of the threads Ive read it seems many are simply expecting far too much from this.

That is a tad unfair
From what was said previously I was expecting a general release movie, Hollywood style, and was therefore disappointed with the quality based on that assumption.
No one said that it was to be a straight to DVD production by a small company when the trailer came out afaik.

If some one had given the appraisal as per the OP at the time, a lot of people wouldn't have said ZOMG etc
as it happens I NEVER say ZOMG!, but I did say the trailer was poop.

Well done OP neat summary of events and glad you had a good day.

re: pricing of the DVD
That will also be in part due to the limited edition. Will there be a general release at a later date?
sorry if that was already posted. poor memory

Is CGI cheaper than traditional animation? I assume so, but a 40K movie done in the style of the Red Hood animated movie would be awesome. CGI is only good if done well.

How much will the non-special edition cost in the spring?

Chibi Bodge-Battle wrote:No one said that it was to be a straight to DVD production by a small company when the trailer came out afaik.

That was information given before any video footage was released.

I don't want to come across as some GW fanboy who will defend this movie for any shortcoming (which is no doubt what I will be accused of) but some people have gotten stupidly overcritical of the trailer to this film. Fair enough those who made a passing comment that the cgi looks poor quality but some made it there personal campaign to tell everyone else how rubbish they thought the trailer looked and how likely they think the film is going to suck. Most of these people have put their cases across as if they somehow deserved better, I do remember hearing the comment "If you got served bad food would you not complain?" as a metaphor to support someone's own criticism for the trailer. It's no fair comparison, you never ordered this. This is a film made by a small company who have put their case to GW to make it, had a go then got a load of gak along the lines of wah wah wah not good enough. If you don't like it on the basis of the trailer don't buy it, quite simple. Don't whinge as if GW just shagged your mother.

Has anyone watched the reviews of the movie on the movie homepage by some of the GW staff? Confirms my opinion of John Blanche as... a bit odd. To say the least.

I'm a bit put off by the fact that you spent the first half of the post defending Codex pictures before even reviewing the movie.

It was well written, but it's pretty clear you lack an objective viewpoint.

Come on guys. We all know the visuals are sub-par, he just re-iterated it. In fact, I would be the first to poop on the look of it. Explaining why it is what it is isn't going to change it.

The core of the point is that there are 2 positive reviews on it from fans (and anyone who gets it will be a fan), saying the story and acting were good. That is the best situation we can hope for at this point, and it should at least be good news that there is a flicker of hope for those that pre-payed for it.

I still reserve judgement, I think for me, with that visual quality, no matter what it will be a tough sell to enjoy it. But that's me. I'm a bit more inclined to give it a shot now though, and at least that's something.

Again, debating this until we have all seen it is somewhat pointless, and picking apart the OP's review even more so. It sounds like it was written by a sympathetic fan? Of course it does lol, that's exactly what he is! Full of booze by all accounts no less lol! I still think it was good of him to write such a lengthy review skipping spoilers for us, professional or not.

Whatwhat, at the time the circumstances of production may have been announced, but I was not aware of that.

TBH I didn't see all of the very long running trailer thread, but when I questioned the quality, no one made the point about production and release which we now are referring to.
I had no idea until asking on the thread about the DVD when it subsequently became apparent.

Apologies for missing the original statement way back when

Do I have to be drunk to enjoy this movie?

I reserve judgement, but still, the initial review said he had plenty of beer before watching

Well, I'm not sure about drunk, but marijuana helps make The Room an AMAZING movie.

I'm sure the effect is quite similar.

So let me get this straight the movie didn't suck?
Halleuigh Praise the Lord on high. *commissary cocks bolt pistol*
I mean
Praise the Emperor on HIGH!

I asked the producer at GD Baltimore about it's availability, and what he said made me cringe a little bit. Basically, the only places you will ever see this film for sale will be the film's website and ebay after people watch it once and sell it. It will not be available from Netflix, or for rent, or in Movie Stop. Basically, this movie made simply for people who are already dropping their paychecks on GW products. It will not expand the fan base. It will not be a cult classic, because nobody who doesn't already play Warhammer will see it. Terrible, terrible marketing.

eledamris wrote:I asked the producer at GD Baltimore about it's availability, and what he said made me cringe a little bit. Basically, the only places you will ever see this film for sale will be the film's website and ebay after people watch it once and sell it. It will not be available from Netflix, or for rent, or in Movie Stop. Basically, this movie made simply for people who are already dropping their paychecks on GW products. It will not expand the fan base. It will not be a cult classic, because nobody who doesn't already play Warhammer will see it. Terrible, terrible marketing.

And you expected anything different from GW?

Certainly not I.

Just makes my sense of decency hurt. I work in marketing, and this is ridiculous. And we wonder why Blizzard consistently puts out copycat products but makes billions of dollars off of them!

Here here... GW is their own worst enemy sometimes. Goes against everything I do in my professional life as well. Oh well, they make great minis, and have us to market for them I suppose.

You do realise GW is not responsible for the marketing of this film?

I can't decide which thread contains more whine, this one or the StormRaven thread...

They should've at least gotten some face time in a White Dwarf ad.

whatwhat wrote:You do realise GW is not responsible for the marketing of this film?

Neither was anyone else, from the sound of it.

AlexHolker wrote:

whatwhat wrote:You do realise GW is not responsible for the marketing of this film?

Neither was anyone else, from the sound of it.

Uh, Marketing costs money. Small company=no $ for marketing. even relatively small add campaigns cost a fair bit of $$.

They'll probably do some limited marketing before the general release in March next year, but thanks to youtube and the like marketing doesn't have to be the expensive affair it once was.

Didnt GW have an Ultramarine week on their website becuase of the movie? That sort of counts as advertising (and a way to shove more SM in our face!)

You can only buy it on the site? Well...I guess I'm not watching this one. Unless it becomes available online through questionably legal methods.

I'm glad to hear it had a good plot, voice acting, and all that jazz, but man, that animation would make it difficult for me to watch on anything but my monitor. I understand the circumstances, I just prefer special effects to be kickin'.

whatwhat wrote:You do realise GW is not responsible for the marketing of this film?

Exactly lol

Do people not read or something?

The movie will be available, via a general release of a "standard edition"(to places like Netflix, Amazon, your FLGS/Games Workshop storefront etc etc) come March of next year.

Or at least that's what Codex Pictures is saying at this juncture.

Calm yourself Kan. I don't want you to burn out another PSU. People like eledamris above are just reporting what they've heard. No harm in that.

MajorTom11 wrote:The core of the point is that there are 2 positive reviews on it from fans (and anyone who gets it will be a fan), saying the story and acting were good. That is the best situation we can hope for at this point, and it should at least be good news that there is a flicker of hope for those that pre-payed for it.

You just gave me an idea for my next big review.

Thanks Tom!!!

??? Lol

Thanks for that excellent review. I am hopeful about the movie and have had my copy pre-ordered for sometime. Even if it's not great, let's face it: we'll still have a certain affection for it, I'm sure.

AlexHolker wrote:

whatwhat wrote:You do realise GW is not responsible for the marketing of this film?

Neither was anyone else, from the sound of it.

LOL. +1 to this.

Manchu wrote:Even if it's not great, let's face it: we'll still have a certain affection for it, I'm sure.

No, I'm a hugely critical, cynical, and pessimistic person who is unlikely to ever be happy with anything in life, let alone a poorly animated movie about screaming bald men shooting screaming spikey men

That's too bad.

Based on this review and one other, I pre-ordered the deluxe set. I guess I'll know soon if I agree with you all.

Fafnir wrote:No, I'm a hugely critical, cynical, and pessimistic person who is unlikely to ever be happy with anything in life, let alone a poorly animated movie about screaming bald men shooting screaming spikey men

Leave the cynicism to me please Farnir.

And even I bought the movie when it went on Pre-Order...

Hi everybody,

Cheers for all the comments, glad the review was at least informative, I feel I should clear a few things up though.

First of all I am in no way affilliated with Codex pictures, although re reading my review maybe I came across as a little over defensive of them.

There was a good reason for this. I have posted this review on other 40K forums where reaction to the trailers wasn't all that positive, and the overall impression was that GW had somehow let down the 40K fans by producing a bad movie.

As I have said in my review and will say again, Games Workshop are IN NO WAY involved with the production of this movie. They are in NOW WAY involved with the marketing of this movie, and they have invested NO MONEY in it either.

That is the reason I spent a bit of time giving some background regarding Codex Pictures at the start of my review as the majority of people believe that this movie is a Games Workshop product and it really isn't.

This is a small film company who have been given permission to make this film by GW, and have had the final movie approved by Games Workshop but that is literally where their involvement starts and finishes.

If a bunch of 40K fans had grouped together and raised thousands of pounds to make a 40K Movie (like the guys who made Damnatus did) I don't think the reaction would be anything like it has been towards this movie.

And the reason that the movie is currently only on sale on the website? That's because this movie was from day one aimed solely at a 40K audience. It was made for the fans and the intention was to not cater to a wider audience as this would mean watering down the IP. Codex pictures didn't want to do this, they wanted to produce a film that was as faithful to the 40K universe as any product GW would produce, and I would say thay have achieved that.

And why is it only on sale via their website? That's because if they tendered out the producttion of the DVD to a third party and then sold it through retail they would see very little of the profits. However if they produce the DVD themselves and sell it through their own website they get to keep the proceeds. The sales of the DVD and subsequent merchandising are the only way this company will make back their investment which runs into thousands of pounds (if not more).

And the reason the DVD is expensive is because it is a limited edition 2 disk version which comes in a metal embossed box with a graphic novel included. This would have been expensive to produce and they obviously need their money back. And the limited edition has been released now so that fans who want to buy the movie early can do so now, but pay a premium.

The movie itself will get a Worlwide release in March next year, and will be available to buy through all the usual chennels and will get a limited cinema release. We are just getting it a little bit early because we are the core 40K fanbase, and I don't really mind paying £25 for the DVD having now seen it. I would still agree that for a DVD that runs for 75 minutes this is over priced, but then when you take into account that this is a self produced movie from a small company I don't think it's at all unreasonable to expect them to want to get their money back.

Codex Pictures do want to make more 40K movies, they are in fact already in talks with their team to start thinking about which direction they will take. However if they don't get their money back they won't be able to do this.

This is the first time GW have ever actually had the confidence in a movie enough to give it their approval, but if this doesn't work they may well be reluctant to do so in the future.

However if the film sells and Codex pictures get their money back they will be able to attract larger investors for the next movie and produce something of a quality that more people may appreciate.

Taking all of this into account maybe did influence my review slightly. I want this film to do well because I want to see more of them, but also because I think Codex had the right idea in aiming the film at core fans and I wouldn't want that to back fire on them.

And in terms of the beer, I wasn't drunk whilst watching the movie, just after. However it is the sort of movie you would want to watch with a few mates and a few beers in surround sound on a big telly!

And I have read lots of other reviews and they all agree. It's no Avatar, but it was never going to be (although it's better written! ). But it does stay true to the original source material and that's what's more important to me.

The graphics aren't the best, but they're by no means awful, and to be honest nothing grates too much apart from the walk cycles in places (going up stairs or walking through desert - there seems to be no mass and the legs look a bit floaty). Some of the dialogue is a bit cheesey but is generally better than most movies, but the voice cast do a great job and the characters are nicely realised.

I honestly believe this is the closest we will get to a 40K movie that will appeal to gamers. It isn't watered down for a more general audience (there is a fair bit of gore - tops of heads lopped off with chainswords etc) and captures the atmosphere very well.

It isn't the best movie I have seen this year, not by any means, but it is strangely my favourite. Maybe I am just a fanboy, but I think it was worth the wait. I don't deny it could have been better, but let's hope it sells and the next one is an improvement.

And just to reiterate - this is not a Games Workshop product, they have simply allowed Codex Pictures to make it and have approved its release.

StraightSilver wrote:If a bunch of 40K fans had grouped together and raised thousands of pounds to make a 40K Movie . . .

It rather sounds like this is pretty much the case with the Ultramarines movies. We will know on viewing, I'm sure.

Glad to hear the script and voice acting are decent. Too many SciFi movies blow their dough on effects and forget to bother with scripts and actors. This review looks like a "best case" scenario from my perspective. Graphics were never going to be top-notch on a limited budget (and I'm thinking the budget here was FAR lower than even, say, Skyline) glad it sounds like they got the rest right.

That said, I wonder why, from an IP perspective, GW was willing to "allow" Codex Pictures to make a 40k-themed movie, but not to allow the Damnatus folks to do theirs? I seem to recall there was something in the Damnatus situation about the "creators" of the movie having irrevocable rights to their production. I wonder what was different in the Codex Pictures case...

And that said, if Codex would allow PayPal to be used on their site, I'd probably buy a copy. Credit Card only? I'll have to wait...

Valete,

JohnS

I'd like to pre-order it but what with all the seasonal expenses I'm not sure I'll be able to afford it and food.... hang on a minute... we all know warhammer comes before healthy living

cygnnus wrote:Glad to hear the script and voice acting are decent. Too many SciFi movies blow their dough on effects and forget to bother with scripts and actors. This review looks like a "best case" scenario from my perspective. Graphics were never going to be top-notch on a limited budget (and I'm thinking the budget here was FAR lower than even, say, Skyline) glad it sounds like they got the rest right.

That said, I wonder why, from an IP perspective, GW was willing to "allow" Codex Pictures to make a 40k-themed movie, but not to allow the Damnatus folks to do theirs? I seem to recall there was something in the Damnatus situation about the "creators" of the movie having irrevocable rights to their production. I wonder what was different in the Codex Pictures case...

And that said, if Codex would allow PayPal to be used on their site, I'd probably buy a copy. Credit Card only? I'll have to wait...

Valete,

JohnS

I'm no legal expert, but I seem to remember that European copyright laws are very different from the US. Basically, if you allow someone to use your IP, like the Damnatus guys did, then you give up your ownership of the IP. Basically, you just threw everything away...

In fact, many "rumor sites" will watch European trade magazines, because by law, companies have to announce any future ventures months in advance. This allows everyone to fairly compete for any marketing merchandise, such as action figures and the like. This is how many Clone Wars rumors were started. Because, the EU laws made Lucas put his plans out months earily, so that everyone could bid on making stuff for it.

Now, GW may not be very NICE about how they are protecting their IP, but NO ONE can blame them for holding on to it so tightly. YOU would too.

CaptainLoken wrote:

cygnnus wrote:Glad to hear the script and voice acting are decent. Too many SciFi movies blow their dough on effects and forget to bother with scripts and actors. This review looks like a "best case" scenario from my perspective. Graphics were never going to be top-notch on a limited budget (and I'm thinking the budget here was FAR lower than even, say, Skyline) glad it sounds like they got the rest right.

That said, I wonder why, from an IP perspective, GW was willing to "allow" Codex Pictures to make a 40k-themed movie, but not to allow the Damnatus folks to do theirs? I seem to recall there was something in the Damnatus situation about the "creators" of the movie having irrevocable rights to their production. I wonder what was different in the Codex Pictures case...

And that said, if Codex would allow PayPal to be used on their site, I'd probably buy a copy. Credit Card only? I'll have to wait...

Valete,

JohnS

I'm no legal expert, but I seem to remember that European copyright laws are very different from the US. Basically, if you allow someone to use your IP, like the Damnatus guys did, then you give up your ownership of the IP. Basically, you just threw everything away...

In fact, many "rumor sites" will watch European trade magazines, because by law, companies have to announce any future ventures months in advance. This allows everyone to fairly compete for any marketing merchandise, such as action figures and the like. This is how many Clone Wars rumors were started. Because, the EU laws made Lucas put his plans out months earily, so that everyone could bid on making stuff for it.

Now, GW may not be very NICE about how they are protecting their IP, but NO ONE can blame them for holding on to it so tightly. YOU would too.

Damnatus was solely an issue with German law. Not EU law.

Basically GW couldn't give Damanatus the go ahead without giving up their IP in Germany.

Ftr. Not the case in the rest of Europe.

Thanks for the review and where did you get the info that DOW1 cutscenes costed 3 million euros?

Manchu reminds you: Posting spam is against DakkaDakka rules.

CT GAMER wrote:I can't decide which thread contains more whine, this one or the StormRaven thread...

The response is similar because the situations are similar: in both cases a promising product with high hopes was smashed by poor execution. The Stormraven was such an awesome concept, and the actual model "kinda sucks" at best - the homebrew kitbashes are nearly all better. In many cases, a great deal better.

At the time of you post, it appeared that the Ultramarines movie would have very little distribution (no amazon, netflix et al) - if that were true, it would be cause for concern, which was expressed. It does not appear that is true, however.

Well thanks for posting this, its made me register and order the deluxe copy of the DVD from the site. Unfortunatley I'm posted in the Middle East at the moment, and won't be back in the UK to watch it until January.

Really looking forward to it. Been in the hobby +20yrs and from the trailer, I know its going to be good. I'm happy to pass my 26 GBP onto the guys if it supports future developments into bringing the 40k universe to film.

I think this will be a great thing for the hobby, and as a shareholder in GW, I also think this will reinvigorate future sales. My 9yr old nephew is just starting in the hobby, and surprise surprise, painting Ultramarines. This is gowing to blow him away!

Am really looking forward to getting my copy, but then always have been. from the review it sounds like the film is what it is, afilm for the fans. my guess would be that if the film does well the next will be better and so on. Has anyone heard the audio books? the first one was quite bland just the narrator reading, but as they have gone on they have got better and better, with more sound effects, music and the likes. This sounds like a toe in the water affair. Onwards and upwards eh!

I actually bought the "Inquisitor" VHS at Games Day years ago (either 98 or 2000) and I'll probably buy this one as well. Thank you for the review and information on it.

http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/2010/11/18/ultramarines-a-warhammer-40000-movie-world-exclusive-clip/

A new clip for your entertainment there.

...
Wow, that was kinda disappointing. The story looks really good but the more i see of the animation the worse it gets.

40k Radio has posted a quite positive review on their latest podcast. During the same podcast they also announced that the movie had become a sponsor for the whole year too... lol, takes a bit of credibility away. BUT, they do sound genuinely enthused, and were commenting on many little details that really made the movie for them.

We have ten pairs of tickets to give away to a preview screening of the Ultramarines movie in Central London on Sunday November 28th at 11am.

If you would like to see the movie on a big screen, ahead of the release date, simply email moviepreview@ultramarinesthemovie.com with your name, address and contact number, and BLOG in the subject line, by 6pm GMT Tuesday November 23rd.

Ten winners will be drawn at random by an independent party, and notified by email on Wednesday November 24th.

ULTRAMARINES has been rated as 15 Certificate in the UK and rated R in the US.

..get sending then folks !

Thanks for sticking your neck out to do the review. I am cautiously optimistic... which is saying something. And MajorTom is right, expecting perfection in a low-budget, niche market genre film is neither rational or reasonable. Good story and acting are more than I would have hoped for, and with them, I'll gladly enjoy the movie in spite of less-than-Avatar quality animation.

I stopped watching that clip half way through.

Not I might add because I thought that the animation was sub par but because this has really got me excited about receiving my pre order. It actually looks good especially when compared to akk the pre-showing whinging.

Roll on delivery day!

Very nice write up and review. Thanks.

I think you've convinced me to actually buy this movie OP and I never buy movies but basically your saying this is an independant film made about my favorite universe. How many of us have dreamed about doing something like this? They deserve some support.

reds8n wrote:

That clip was ace.

I really didn't like the clips, I cringed all the way through both of them. I was pretty disappointed given the positive things people have been saying but I thought the voice acting was terrible and the animation was pretty bad. :(

i have an off topic question, any one know if it will be released in aus, i had a look on the web site but couldnt see anything and noticed it was only in uk/us format, but back on topic the review has got me excited, i thought the trailers were good enough lol

If there is a chance for more... I will not look for torrents... My order has now been placed!

Seems....intriguing. I'll hold my judgment for now.

StraightSilver wrote:The Hollywood producers always ask how they can get a love interest in there and of course that isn't something we necessarily want to see (well not most if us anyway!).

When most of the women on your fluff are nuns this can be difficult.

This is what Hollywood wants..

George Spiggott wrote:

StraightSilver wrote:The Hollywood producers always ask how they can get a love interest in there and of course that isn't something we necessarily want to see (well not most if us anyway!).

When most of the women on your fluff are nuns this can be difficult.

Good thing we've got Sandy Mitchell around, then. Make a series of Ciaphas Cain movies and not only would you get a variety of female characters (more than a few of whom have been in a relationship with Cain), but also confirmation that Sisters of Battle don't share an extinct, unrelated religion's requirement for celibacy and even *gasp* a same sex couple.

BrookM wrote:This is what Hollywood wants..

This is full of win!

Being into 3d and CGI, the idea of having a CGI 40k movie really appealed to me. Especially when you see the intro stuff from Dawn of War, Gears of War and COD. Bloody awesome stuff. However...

The graphics aren't the best, but they're by no means awful, and to be honest nothing grates too much apart from the walk cycles in places (going up stairs or walking through desert - there seems to be no mass and the legs look a bit floaty). Some of the dialogue is a bit cheesey but is generally better than most movies, but the voice cast do a great job and the characters are nicely realised.

... gets my goat. You either do this properly or you stay away from it. Gearing it up for the GW fans, and pricing it in a GW way just means you are limiting your market and likely to die a death. They should of made this film with the intention of making it appeal to Sci Fi fans in general. It would give them a bigger return, with the likely hood of being able to make a sequal.

Rather than post yet another thread in News & Rumors about my review of the Ultramarines movie, I figured I'd just post a notice here in this lovely thread on the topic.

Mine's in the Dakka articles section of the site and you can read it here:

http://www.dakkadakka.com/wiki/en/yakface_Reviews_the_Ultramarines_Movie


I also wanted to give a shout out to StraightSilver for his great review. I had committed to writing one and then I read yours and realized you had already said most of what I was going to write! But I went ahead and wrote it anyway, trying to add a bit of my perspective. Hopefully it isn't *too* much like reading a re-hash of you already wrote.

Thanks again for taking the time to write it up!

reds8n wrote:

ULTRAMARINES has been rated as 15 Certificate in the UK and rated R in the US.

Rated R?
That's gonna make a lot of people happy. I seem to recall that many people were worrying that it would be too toned down.

Apparently not.

Order placed: looks good enough for support and we need to prove there's a market so that they make more and better.

Incidentally the notion of old-looking Marines really gels with the notion of Veteran life-spans being in the hundreds of years. I like it.

I'll be camping out by my mailbox !!!!!

Pre ordered, even if it sucks i want to support these guys. I think anyone that loves the hobby should do the same.

Big thanks to the producers for the cinema showing this coming Sunday, I'm looking forwards to it immensely.

the what where?

reds8n wrote: Big thanks to the producers for the cinema showing this coming Sunday, I'm looking forwards to it immensely.

*Sob* I'm working this weekend. Not that I'd have won any tickets, with my luck.

Unfortunately I bare bad news.

The Ultramarines home page is listing an item under Latest News it reads;

"26 Nov 2010 - DELAY TO SHIP DATE "

When clicked on the pages states Access Denied and shows no further detail.

For Feths Sake! So close!

gak.

Strange, nothing seems to be there now...???

Could be a silly prank, or the post has been pulled and will be put up later when they fire off a newsletter to go with it.

It was definitely there. I even did a screen print but have endevoured to mislay it?

I figure theat they were preparing for a weather related delay [heavy snow across allot of the UK], the realised that it dosn't matter until monday morning any way.

Thanks for the review I cant wait to see this movie.

Honestly I think if Hollywood did make the movie, I wouldn't want it to be based soley around the space marines, but instead maybe a squad in the imperial guard and have it showing the events that go on around them (constant deaths of allies, mental anguish, neverending stress and worry if you're going to live the next day etc.). They would need to make it dirty, gritty, and almost make you feel empty on the inside when you leave it. Keep any love stories or any of that garbage out of it.


Anyway that's me blathering off topic, back on topic! I'm happy to hear it isn't a disappointment. I understand the quality of the animation is at the peak of what we have right now, but I'm more interested in the story with mediocre animation which it sounds like this film will be perfect then

Why can't there be love stories? The little side love story in helsreach was great. If done well they can add a lot.

Da Boss wrote:Is CGI cheaper than traditional animation? I assume so, but a 40K movie done in the style of the Red Hood animated movie would be awesome. CGI is only good if done well.

I have to agree with this. I am waiting for the spring, I don't need all the fluff, especially if I don't like the film I wont feel it such a waste of money. But traditional 2d animation is still amazing if done well, the same can be said that if it is not done well it can be just aweful to look at, and I think the same with CGI animation, if it looks terrible it detracts from the film.

However you mentioned the Red Hood, what straight Batman Animation (Not justice league or batman/superman stuff like that) has not been of outstanding quality? I think the animated Batman franchise since it began in the late 80's early 90's with Batman the Animated series set the bar pretty high and maintains it today.

So that example is the high water mark, then you look at say Spider-Man Unlimited and it's just aweful to look at, it had a respectable franchise character from a decent animated show and then the animation just dropped off. Then there is just tons of stuff inbetween, the Simpson is near the top of the list and then you have South Park near the middle.

CGI works in the same kind of pattern, stuff in the middle people will still enjoy but it tends to be a nitch, and stiff at the bottom, no one enjoys. I think from what I've seen this film is probably closer to the middle but I can't say for sure since all I've seen is an 2 minute trailer on my HD monitor. And again if the story is enjoyable and well done it will move it up, that why I mentioned south park in the middle, thats all about the writing the social commentary the animation is of secondary concern. This is clearly leaning the other way, the action is the primary concern and if it looks good then no one will mind.

After all plenty of people still like Babylon 5 and it's CGI is not by any means up to par with current TV CGI.

Simonbarsinistr wrote:Why can't there be love stories? The little side love story in helsreach was great. If done well they can add a lot.

More crushed souls, yes.

Tomorow, tomorrow, I love ya, tomorrow...

Today! Can't wait to see it...

So I went along to the cinema showing in London on Sunday. Happy to be going -- a day out is a day out after all and, realistically, I would only have spent most of the day in bed hiding from the weather anyway. Quick and relatively hasslefree train journey got me to London, then a slight case of really rather embarrassing mistaken identity : in the unlikely event that the bloke who ( I thought) grinned at me and said "Well hello gorgeous, good to see you at last", which led to me laughing. calling him "sexy" and shaking his hand reads this : I can but apologise, once again both to you and your girlfriend who was stood behind me. What a great story that will make to tell your children one day.


Ah, the perils of meeting online/forum friends in the flesh for the first time.

Anyway, after a few slight diversions, I found my way to the cinema, and was greeted by a long line of..well.... wargamers . And a strangely reassuring sight it was too. It was kind of like a support group were having an outing.

Met and chatted with a few people, very pleased to meet some of them indeed, a bit annoyed I didn't get to speak to some as much as I would have liked.Them's the breaks I guess.

We got in, swiftly,and were given out ticket for a free drink from the bar afterwards too :cool: , and took our seats.A bit of a preamble from some of those involved, then the lights went down and off we went. Well, alright, off we sat.

So then : the film.

Most people here will have seen the trailers. They don't really do the film justice IMO. The animation was a lot sharper and better than the trailer quality had led me to believe. Yeah, sure, it's wasn't up to bighollywoodreleaseofthemonth or the myriad of of "movie" scenes in various computer games. But it never claimed to be, and the style they've used suits both the story they're telling and the setting itself. Things like the spaceship interiors and the incredibly faithful renditions of 40K buildings are spot on. There's a nice attention to detail -- things like the stained glass window, the wearing and rust on things and so on which really show the care and love that have gone into the project.

The story is relatively straight forward and logical enough. There's a bit more meat on this bone than some of the reviews so far have let on -- the community has been surprisingly good in this regards which is a nice change. And everything that happens in it "feels" right, generally. Perhaps the "walk" goes on a little longer than some would like, but that time is used quite effectively to show some of the characters' natures a bit more and to build up the tension.

This aspect is helped tremendously by the first class audio and sound effects. They don't put a foot wrong here IMO -- if the soundtrack is ever made available then put me down for one for sure. The effort they went to here -- hiring BBC choirs and the ! -- like really pays off. Chainswords sound like I'd thought and the bolt guns work as well, although for me bolter weapons will always be as Ian Watson wrote. And the Land Speeder was very well done.

The story has several "punch the air" moments and the few jokes are well placed and timed and raised chuckles from the audience, without being too cheesy either. And let's be honest, marines are hardly going to be "LOL" are they eh ?

There are a few quibbles : I was a little confused at one point with what exactly had happened to one marine.... and I suspect there might be some discussion about the what I shall refer to as "The Crozius issue", but they're all quite minor and might well be cleared up in a second viewing.

Aside from that it's really nitpicky stuff that is easily explained with "well they might..." although I really have my doubts that the Imperial Fists would have built that bridge out of wood. Not least due to the import costs.

Oh, and nothing to do with the film, but the cinema itself could have done with a tad more heating perhaps.

Overall though I was more impressed ( and relieved) than I'd hoped to be. I've read some comments pretty much saying that you should buy this as it's their first effort and each one will ( or should) get better as they go along. And, whilst that line of argument is ..err... logical ?... the main reason you should buy this is because it is a good film that really is written for genuine 40K fans. The fact that if this is a success then we'll get follow ups is, really, just a bonus.

Massive thanks to Codex pictures for the day itself, which was a blast. It was great to talk to those involved and they were amazingly open with regards to what they'd have liked to have done and to do in the future. Although they wouldn't be drawn too far with regards to what any possible sequel would be about, but that's quite understandable... if annoying.

And extra thanks to Deborah who really went above and beyond both on the day and prior to it making sure things went as smoothly as they did. I hope you actually got to drink that red wine.

Anyway, don't just sit here pondering, get over to their site and buy it.

reds8n wrote:So I went along to the cinema showing in London on Sunday. Happy to be going -- a day out is a day out after all and, realistically, I would only have spent most of the day in bed hiding from the weather anyway. Quick and relatively hasslefree train journey got me to London, then a slight case of really rather embarrassing mistaken identity : in the unlikely event that the bloke who ( I thought) grinned at me and said "Well hello gorgeous, good to see you at last", which led to me laughing. calling him "sexy" and shaking his hand reads this : I can but apologise, once again both to you and your girlfriend who was stood behind me. What a great story that will make to tell your children one day.


Ah, the perils of meeting online/forum friends in the flesh for the first time.

Anyway, after a few slight diversions, I found my way to the cinema, and was greeted by a long line of..well.... wargamers . And a strangely reassuring sight it was too. It was kind of like a support group were having an outing.

Met and chatted with a few people, very pleased to meet some of them indeed, a bit annoyed I didn't get to speak to some as much as I would have liked.Them's the breaks I guess.

We got in, swiftly,and were given out ticket for a free drink from the bar afterwards too :cool: , and took our seats.A bit of a preamble from some of those involved, then the lights went down and off we went. Well, alright, off we sat.

So then : the film.

Most people here will have seen the trailers. They don't really do the film justice IMO. The animation was a lot sharper and better than the trailer quality had led me to believe. Yeah, sure, it's wasn't up to bighollywoodreleaseofthemonth or the myriad of of "movie" scenes in various computer games. But it never claimed to be, and the style they've used suits both the story they're telling and the setting itself. Things like the spaceship interiors and the incredibly faithful renditions of 40K buildings are spot on. There's a nice attention to detail -- things like the stained glass window, the wearing and rust on things and so on which really show the care and love that have gone into the project.

The story is relatively straight forward and logical enough. There's a bit more meat on this bone than some of the reviews so far have let on -- the community has been surprisingly good in this regards which is a nice change. And everything that happens in it "feels" right, generally. Perhaps the "walk" goes on a little longer than some would like, but that time is used quite effectively to show some of the characters' natures a bit more and to build up the tension.

This aspect is helped tremendously by the first class audio and sound effects. They don't put a foot wrong here IMO -- if the soundtrack is ever made available then put me down for one for sure. The effort they went to here -- hiring BBC choirs and the ! -- like really pays off. Chainswords sound like I'd thought and the bolt guns work as well, although for me bolter weapons will always be as Ian Watson wrote. And the Land Speeder was very well done.

The story has several "punch the air" moments and the few jokes are well placed and timed and raised chuckles from the audience, without being too cheesy either. And let's be honest, marines are hardly going to be "LOL" are they eh ?

There are a few quibbles : I was a little confused at one point with what exactly had happened to one marine.... and I suspect there might be some discussion about the what I shall refer to as "The Crozius issue", but they're all quite minor and might well be cleared up in a second viewing.

Aside from that it's really nitpicky stuff that is easily explained with "well they might..." although I really have my doubts that the Imperial Fists would have built that bridge out of wood. Not least due to the import costs.

Oh, and nothing to do with the film, but the cinema itself could have done with a tad more heating perhaps.

Overall though I was more impressed ( and relieved) than I'd hoped to be. I've read some comments pretty much saying that you should buy this as it's their first effort and each one will ( or should) get better as they go along. And, whilst that line of argument is ..err... logical ?... the main reason you should buy this is because it is a good film that really is written for genuine 40K fans. The fact that if this is a success then we'll get follow ups is, really, just a bonus.

Massive thanks to Codex pictures for the day itself, which was a blast. It was great to talk to those involved and they were amazingly open with regards to what they'd have liked to have done and to do in the future. Although they wouldn't be drawn too far with regards to what any possible sequel would be about, but that's quite understandable... if annoying.

And extra thanks to Deborah who really went above and beyond both on the day and prior to it making sure things went as smoothly as they did. I hope you actually got to drink that red wine.

Anyway, don't just sit here pondering, get over to their site and buy it.

Is...is your avatar smoking a candy cane?

And thanks for the 2 cents as well Mr. Satan.

WarOne wrote:
Is...is your avatar smoking a candy cane?

For a very short while yes, rest assured Grinchiness will resume shortly. Humbug indeed.

reds8n wrote:

WarOne wrote:
Is...is your avatar smoking a candy cane?

For a very short while yes, rest assured Grinchiness will resume shortly. Humbug indeed.

I thought Satan only sucked on hard candies coating the sweet souls of murderers and arsonists?

And, of course, it didn't come today.

CURSE YOU, GODS OF THE WARP/POST OFFICE!

Bad news on the production front. Got this email today regarding my order:

Unfortunately, due to a production issue outside of our control, we are not able to start shipping your order for the ULTRAMARINES DVD Collector's Set today, November 29th as planned. We are working around the clock with our third party suppliers to resolve the issue as soon as possible and hope to be able to give you details of a new ship date tomorrow.

We at Codex Pictures know you will be very disappointed not to receive your DVD as soon as anticipated and are equally distressed ourselves that this has happened.

Please accept our sincere apologies and rest assured we are doing everything we can to resolve the issue and get your order to you quickly.


Codex Pictures

(EDIT) My 100th post and it has to be soul crushing bad news.
I'm such a tool.

Oof. I wonder what part of production? The box? The cover?
(Sorry, post office! I'll be taking that curse back now).

I got hold of an "emergency off site back up copy" last week and think it's not too bad. Have to agree about the age thing, that was really stupid and wasn't too impressed with the Apothecary character. I'm also not a great lover of Space Marines bickering in a petty way. Did also wonder at the end when they were landing on the Cruiser why there were only a handful of Space Marines on it, another weak story point.

I'd give it a B and when the normal price version comes out I will buy a copy.

You people who think this has a "good" story line need to watch more movies.


You people that think this movie was good spend way too much time hiding from daylight in your mom's basement playing tabletop. This movie was TERRIBLE. TERRIBLE. Its so god damn bad, I don't even know where to start. You've done hit the crack pipe one to many times if you think there is ANYTHING positive to say about this film.

First off, jesus christ, did anyone (anyone at all) research anything before making this film? I mean, could you maybe have had someone over at codex pictures actually do a little research about military formations, how squads move, how the 40k universe works, etc? How about the dumb ass marines walking around corners and through doorways with their bolters mag clamped to their legs! Really? I mean really? A space marine? Someone who's fed tactical moves their whole life.....

Then, the story sucked. Dan should stick to writing books, because I'm pretty sure you could read the 12 year old special Olympics sci-fi short story challenge and find better story lines. I mean seriously, I thought Dan would be your only saving grace, but christ this story line sucks. They go to a planet, kill a couple bad guys, a demon tries to come back to their homeworld? Christ, seriously, that's it?

The graphics consistently looked about as sexy as the fat girl that lives at the end of the block. I mean, I play video games on my blackberry that looks better than the crap you've cooked up.

Sound was terrible, completely one dimensional. Bolter fire sounds like someone was shooting a .22 a half-mile away. Really, was your sound guy deaf? We are all just curious.

You guys had a chance to really move warhammer to mainstream with this and you've epically, I mean epically, failed. And you the 40k fanboys need to put the god damn pipe down and be sure not to spout this off to family and friends already not familiar with the 40k universe. This will TURN PEOPLE AWAY, who are not already part of the fan base. And they'll probably call you a nerd to boot (which you deserve if you found this movie anything above a D-).

Don't waste your money on this movie! If you really want to see it, find some who idiot who did waste their money and watch theirs. I'd ask for my money back, but this movie is so damn bad that the thought of dealing with it anymore makes me throw up in my mouth.

-Sincerely Pissed off 40k fan.

You joined just to say that?

Worstmovieever wrote:You people who think this has a "good" story line need to watch more movies.


You people that think this movie was good spend way too much time hiding from daylight in your mom's basement playing tabletop. This movie was TERRIBLE. TERRIBLE. Its so god damn bad, I don't even know where to start. You've done hit the crack pipe one to many times if you think there is ANYTHING positive to say about this film.

First off, jesus christ, did anyone (anyone at all) research anything before making this film? I mean, could you maybe have had someone over at codex pictures actually do a little research about military formations, how squads move, how the 40k universe works, etc? How about the dumb ass marines walking around corners and through doorways with their bolters mag clamped to their legs! Really? I mean really? A space marine? Someone who's fed tactical moves their whole life.....

Then, the story sucked. Dan should stick to writing books, because I'm pretty sure you could read the 12 year old special Olympics sci-fi short story challenge and find better story lines. I mean seriously, I thought Dan would be your only saving grace, but christ this story line sucks. They go to a planet, kill a couple bad guys, a demon tries to come back to their homeworld? Christ, seriously, that's it?

The graphics consistently looked about as sexy as the fat girl that lives at the end of the block. I mean, I play video games on my blackberry that looks better than the crap you've cooked up.

Sound was terrible, completely one dimensional. Bolter fire sounds like someone was shooting a .22 a half-mile away. Really, was your sound guy deaf? We are all just curious.

You guys had a chance to really move warhammer to mainstream with this and you've epically, I mean epically, failed. And you the 40k fanboys need to put the god damn pipe down and be sure not to spout this off to family and friends already not familiar with the 40k universe. This will TURN PEOPLE AWAY, who are not already part of the fan base. And they'll probably call you a nerd to boot (which you deserve if you found this movie anything above a D-).

Don't waste your money on this movie! If you really want to see it, find some who idiot who did waste their money and watch theirs. I'd ask for my money back, but this movie is so damn bad that the thought of dealing with it anymore makes me throw up in my mouth.

-Sincerely Pissed off 40k fan.

Obvious Troll is obvious

Well I think he has something of a point if you filter out the bile and vitriol.

And by that I mean, this was an excellent opportunity for 40K to be introduced to a more mainstream and wider audience, but sadly I think the ball has been dropped here. My wife likes sci-fi yet fell asleep watching the first half hour. Hell, I'm a 40k fan and I found the movie tough going!

Bottom line is, yes we know it was made to a low budget but that still doesn't detract from the weak storyline.

filbert wrote:Well I think he has something of a point if you filter out the bile and vitriol.

And by that I mean, this was an excellent opportunity for 40K to be introduced to a more mainstream and wider audience, but sadly I think the ball has been dropped here. My wife likes sci-fi yet fell asleep watching the first half hour. Hell, I'm a 40k fan and I found the movie tough going!

Bottom line is, yes we know it was made to a low budget but that still doesn't detract from the weak storyline.

+1.

Still, I think his post would have been a bit better received had he refrained from joining only to call people who liked the movie crack-smoking basement dwellers. LOL

There is that, isn't there.

I'd suggest taking a deep breath before posting again, actually.

I can remember reading (can't remember where i read it, i think another guys review) that apparently Hollywood constantly ask GW to make a 40k movie, but they decline because hollywood would go off fluff wise and romanticise the whole thing.

well, if you want to mainstream 40k, you will have to introduce it at first to the wider public, and if you have to romanticise it to get there, so be it.

perhaps a storyline to do with a guardsmen on some godforsaken rock somewhere fighting, lots of blood and gore with great CGI, and meets some female hivedweller etc etc the story goes on.


that, or just make a damn movie about a book already written, i'd die to see a Guant's Ghosts movie or something. just a movie which is primarily actors and props and real life locations, and then a small amount of CGI. so basically, no superhuman or aliens UNTIL there is enough support to make a blockbusting CGI filled supermovie with 9 feet tall armoured warriors ripping the heads off fat green aliens with axes.

dark6spectre wrote:

that, or just make a damn movie about a book already written, i'd die to see a Guant's Ghosts movie or something. just a movie which is primarily actors and probs and real life locations, and then a small amount of CGI. so basically, no superhuman or aliens UNTIL there is enough support to make a blockbusting CGI filled supermovie with 9 feet tall armoured warriors ripping the heads off fat green aliens with axes.

We've got that now, so really, no reason not to!

Just focus it on IG and only have the Marines in for a while, to showcase how bada$$ they really are. You know, Movie Marines!

yeah, like in the background see like 5 men in blue killing an army of enemies, and the camera pans to the IGs who are just standing there gawping...

Alpharius wrote:Just focus it on IG and only have the Marines in for a while, to showcase how bada$$ they really are. You know, Movie Marines!

It would be interesting (but probably not in the marketing strategy) to treat them as some of the books treat them: Space marines are near-mythical even to Guardsmen and the like. Do the Alien trick: never show them fully, they are always obscured by darkness, smoke, etc. This makes them mysterious and, coincidentally, covers up cheesy CGI.

Make them a bit feared. Sure, they're 'Heroes of the Imperium' but they aren't necessarily nice, especially to some raw-recruit Guardsmen who's just peed himself and maybe even (gasp!) fallen back a bit because he doesn't have power armor and decades of training. Have them hustle in (obscured), shoot up the enemy, sneer a bit at the Guard, and leave. They've got more important things to do than take care of Guard who are just supposed to hold a static defense line, after all.

Have one (maybe a regular Space Marine, maybe a squad leader) be a little nice and help one Guardsmen to his feet or something, then wordlessly walk away.

Yeah, a Gaunts Ghosts mini-series a la Band of Brothers would be my dream come true.

KamikazeCanuck wrote:Yeah, a Gaunts Ghosts mini-series a la Band of Brothers would be my dream come true.

+1 to that!

dark6spectre wrote:

KamikazeCanuck wrote:Yeah, a Gaunts Ghosts mini-series a la Band of Brothers would be my dream come true.

+1 to that!

Ditto.

I'd rather settle for a more normal regiment than the Mary Sue brigade.

Its was ok, Not bad for a first attempt.

Just watched it....not impressed at all. I knew the CGI wasn't going to be great, I guess they deserve a pass there. Or do they? I guess for a 40k fan its ok, but I would never recommend it as a tool to get somebody into the hobby. I really looks no better than Beast Wars, if anybody remembers that. Maybe its the animation that bothers me?

The script was terrible, just never felt that invested in the story or characters.

I think my biggest problem with the movie was how weak the chaos marines seemed. There was no really challenge for Ultras, where is the drama? What is at stake here? Even putting aside the fluff (chaos are supposed to be much older wiser corrupted veteran marine) it just doesn't make sense to me to have such weak villains.

I don't know about the rest of you, but I enjoy a hero with more depth, one who must face a challenge he might not walk away from.

I guess overall this story a simple starting point, I'd say if you are a fan of 40k its worth a watch, but don't get your hopes up. It's just a shame that they chose this story for a movie. Hopefully if and when they make another its a better attempt.

I absolutely agree with you Hulkster and share you feelings. I'm just happy I downloaded it rather than shelling out hard earned money. I couldn't justify buying it under the guise of shouldering the burden of future efforts.

I was very unhappy with this movie.



Games Workshop should have paid more interest into the production of this movie. It did not do the universe, Space Marines, or Chaos Space Marines justice. The company should work with an established (bigger budget) production company and use an adaptation from a novel or a series of novels and do it right. Maybe have one of the predominant writers come up with a script that has more to it like a battle for Armegeddon or a black crusade or something where more than just one set of marines fights one set of chaos. Include more of the universe to appeal to more players. Personally I'm tired of seeing GW's Blue Boys all over everything they make.

I need to put out some facts here relating to the movie. Chaos space marines have been around from the heresy true but living in the warp has different effects than just warping the body. They might have been around during then but it is like a couple of months or years to them not 10k years it has been. Yes they may have been born in the 30th millennium it doesn't mean they have been alive that long.

Just watched the movie myself and well I have to say that it was a let down overall. The way the marines walk is just funny and so are the chaos space marines. Also nothing about the marines gives viewers the feeling of superhumans and the power armour seemed to be made out of paper or the traitors used solely kraken penetrator rounds... Storyline was weak and overall boring. On the positive side I like the way the Land Speeder is presented and deployed. Just my opinion anyway... They could have used something more compelling from GW's universe like the Tyranid Hive fleet attacking Ultramar or even a simple greenskin battle as their main plot...

just watched starship troopers and backed my view up even more that a 40k movie would be more badass with normal Humans.
IG, with almost no cgi. just do like a DKoK film or something, or even better the war for armageddon.

Hulkster - except it was a trap. The chaos marines were supposed to die, in order to get them to take the Daemon on board.

Very, very chaos-ey thing to do.

IG would be great, I assume though they'd be harder to animate. I also assume that was why chaos marines were used as antagonists- because the models for power armoured humans were already done, just needed some chaos-i-fying to make it work.

@nosferatu

I get what your saying, it just didn't seem like they put up much of a fight. Even then, the demon prince got his butt handed to him. I totally get your point, but I still feel the movie made the chaos marines look extremely weak in comparison to the ultras. I mean, come on some of these guys fought on holy terra! I guess I am a mark for the old pete haines chaos marines who were overpriced with veteran add ons.

I suppose my main point was that I'd of liked to see the chaos marines present more of a challenge.

Saw the movie; sorry folks its stinky doo doo. Don't be fooled by the fanboys and people sipping free drinks courtesy of Codex pictures, its a stinker.

Evilsponge - what a remarkably well thought out, reasoned and hyperbole- and insult-free argument. Well done.
/sarcasm

Hulkster - ah, but it was a legion relic - it could have had some form of Daemon bane to it. The "I need a new face" could also have been an indication of it being weakened over time (and due to the fight) and so not fighting at full effectiveness. Dan Abnett doesnt like to explain everything in a story, thats for sure!

I agree CSM were weak - as a chaos player this is annoying (and i loved my Tank Hunting las/plas squad ) - but I understand why it was the case. The Ultras HAD to get back to their craft believing they had vanquished the enemy, otherwise the ruse would not have had a chance.

nosferatu1001 wrote:

I agree CSM were weak - as a chaos player this is annoying (and i loved my Tank Hunting las/plas squad ) - but I understand why it was the case. The Ultras HAD to get back to their craft believing they had vanquished the enemy, otherwise the ruse would not have had a chance.

Been thinking about that one... Why? Why not have the Black Legion and/or the Daemon-Captain simply slaughter everyone and then the Daemon could return to the Strike Cruiser alone. His/Its report would be very easy...

"Yes, it is lamentable that the rest of the squad perished attempting to recover the Imperial Fists' sacred book, but they died with honor. Thanks to their sacrifice, I have recovered it and will make warp for Maccragge to place it in safe keeping".

With no one else around, who could question a Captain's word? No annoying folks left to risk ruining things...

I really did want to like it, but it just failed on too many plot-related points for me to give it a thumb's up.

Valete,

JohnS

Tyras wrote:I was very unhappy with this movie.

[spoiler]The company should work with an established (bigger budget) production company and use an adaptation from a novel or a series of novels and do it right. Maybe have one of the predominant writers come up with a script that has more to it...

Didn't Abnett write the script? You don't get more 40K than him in regards writing 40K stories. They should have used humans in this to show how much better marines are, marines on marines is just armoured guys shooting each other up, you don't get a perspective of just how much more than human they are.

I thought it sucked. Why not use the horus heresy as the story? thats the best story 40k has to offer. oh, and nice power armour chaos

Huge let down.
And really, I was mostly let down by Dan Abnet's story than anything else, but here are my 3 biggest non plot issues:



lame.com is my review

I have a few criticisms of the movie, but they have little to do with the background lore portrayed in the film. It's a film telling a story, not a tabletop game. New Black Library authors are instructed not to let their books read just like a game or battle report of 40K and the movie was clearly no different. No problem there. I think most of the criticisms based on lore are groundless nitpicking.

For example, the constant "geek critique" about the Crozius having a special power. There are unique magic weapons all over the 40K universe. There's no reason why the Chaplain in the film couldn't have had a special magic weapon. He's not an HQ choice from a Codex for a game of 40K, he's a unique character in a story and the 40K lore established long ago a universe where unique items and magical artifacts abound.

Space Marines do get old in the lore, much older than normal humans, but how that is supposed to mean they never look old is news to me. No problem with them looking old. Seriously, that ruined the film for some people? I think it would have ruined it for a whole lot more people if the aged battle brothers all looked 25. I also see endless nitpicking here about other various particulars of their size and appearance, but not all of them the same. I guess some people think they should have had a focus group before they made the film and made a change for every unique criticism offered by every fan. Imagine how the film would have looked then! It's ridiculous.

I could go on and on, but frankly, after reading pages of these types of criticisms I think they are groundless.

What I will criticize about the film is from a cinematic movie making perspective. To wit, the movie had padding! I can't believe that a film that is only 76 minutes long had an endless walking sequence in it to pad it out. The screenplay should have either been shorter or something essential to story telling should have happened during that extended walking sequence. It reminded me of some of the iconic jokes on Mystery Science Theater 3000, like "rock climbing, Joel" during the film Lost Continent.

The other criticism I'll make after discussing the film with some friends is that we found the behavior of the Ultramarines to be less than devoted comrades in arms toward each other. Instead of good-natured ribbing and competitiveness amongst themselves, there's fairly outright hostility and trash-talking early on in the film, especially toward senior officers like the Apothecary. It not only made the main characters less sympathetic, but if anything violated the background lore for 40K to me it was that aspect. Perhaps it was deliberate such that the story was supposed to be about how these young new Marines learn to work together and respect each other, but it made most of the characters seem like jerks rather than just being undisciplined from pretty early on in the film. And when the viewer doesn't care about the characters then they don't get emotionally engaged in the outcome of the story. The two most sympathetic characters in the film were the two Imperial Fists, but we don't encounter them to long after the padded walking scene. They are not the major characters of the story.

All that said, I enjoyed the movie, but mostly from the second viewing onward where I could enjoy what is entertaining about it rather than suffer in surprise at what was not well done. It's a lot of fun once you get to the first battle scene and the story from there is engaging and exciting, but the padded walking sequence before that is definitely a negative aspect of the film.

So five pages and no-one is pointing out that Space Marines are pinheads? And I mean that in a literal sense. Look at how much smaller their heads are in comparison to their helmets, then try to figure out how broad their shoulders would have to be for where their arms are.

Seriously! Look at this:


Try to figure out what they would have looked like without the power armor. (Hint: Goofy. They would look really damn goofy outside of their armor.)

First, your head has to be smaller than your helmet to fit inside said helmet and a helmet full of electronics, breathing apparatus and armor plates is bulky. The head should be considerably smaller than the helmet.

On a related note, so people are just noticing that power armor as it's shown on the miniatures is often fairly implausible as far as someone, even a huge giant of a man, fitting comfortably inside it and being able to move freely?

The problem with making anything like 40K into a movie is that it's never going to match the vision of it the fans have in their heads. It's why for many years the Disney studio owned the rights to Lord Of The Ring and didn't exercise their right to make a film out of it. Making anything with such a devoted following into a film is fraught with danger that the fans will nitpick it to death and Codex Pictures is certainly running afoul of that problem now.

Seriously... look at that old man!
And he only has one service stud?? He's already that old and he can expect to live 200+ more years if he doesn't die in combat...He'll be a walking corpse!

Brass scorpion, you can love old man marines all you want but I prefer mine the correct way

My report about this film : dont buy it you will regret that .

I cant explain how bad it is ,just try to think a diablo2 animation level rendering ( maybe worse than that) with a boring to hell story goes on. Even some one says this is made for the fan base people, a lot of stuff is not right compare to 40k fluff, ie explain how a flame thrower does any thing to a power armor CSM? even all those CSMs are stupid like moron, a bolter bullet easily pass through power armor like its from a sniper, etc. This whole thing is just lame and should be treated as a joke

and for me the best part was before the last stand on the planet...

SM says: the emperor protects....

apothecary says: and a loaded bolter never hurt either...


instant heresy....

seriously i thought i had seen some stiff moving marines some day ago in a fan made clip on youtube... but this and it costs some heavy money to buy this movie...
vik

BrassScorpion wrote:First, your head has to be smaller than your helmet to fit inside said helmet and a helmet full of electronics, breathing apparatus and armor plates is bulky. The head should be considerably smaller than the helmet.

On a related note, so people are just noticing that power armor as it's shown on the miniatures is often fairly implausible as far as someone, even a huge giant of a man, fitting comfortably inside it and being able to move freely?

The problem with making anything like 40K into a movie is that it's never going to match the vision of it the fans have in their heads. It's why for many years the Disney studio owned the rights to Lord Of The Ring and didn't exercise their right to make a film out of it. Making anything with such a devoted following into a film is fraught with danger that the fans will nitpick it to death and Codex Pictures is certainly running afoul of that problem now.

Actually the miniatures are significantly better proportioned than the CG we saw in this film. Go look at an unhelmeted fig. The head is about 80% of the size as the helmeted one which keeps the whole profile vaguely human shaped. This isn't a manner of not being able to make a realistic Golum or Urukai. This is what happens when your artists and animators seem to have never actually seen a human being before.

Even if we look past the story (which was bad), or the acting (which was at best mediocre), or the overall quality of the animation (which honestly, could have been serviceable for the most part), we have some fundamentally poor art design choices that make already lackluster animation look down right stupid.

well

if you have the comic you should understand why this bunch of Marines are so different.



I am waiting for the film to arrive here in Italy after I ordered it through my friendly local store (one month over ago.. is anybody having the same problem?)

You know how a kid shows you a picture they made or someone just started warhammer, and it looks pretty crappy, but you say something nice anyways since it is their first time? that's how I feel about the movie, story was unoriginal and boring, but worked; the only cgi that looked good was the training and escape fight scene, and the apothecary was bit of a winer. It's not worth the money, but it's worth downloading or seeing second hand if you can. I personally enjoyed it for what it was, but yes, it was pretty sub-par.


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Also, the movie was two critical things: tanks and giant explosions.

I just saw it it was ok I guess. It was fun to see 40K in movie form and geek out a bit. The Power Armour and Bolters were Impressive however the actual movement animation wasn't that great. They looked clunky and akward.
The story seemed like a beginners introduction to 40K which is fine I guess.
It seems like they decided "What's the most boring place we can have a war?" A dusty desert. I understand the whole thing was on a tight budget so I can forgive a lot. 3/5 stars.

The walking scenes arent meant to be padding, from what I can tell - theyre supposed to raise the tension levels, as you try to imagine going into your first combat zone as full battle brothers, facing a force which has killed a huge number of other marines (seriously, 100 marines? really?) and with all the expectation that brings. I can see why they did it, but because of how lacking their physics model was it just didnt feel right.

As for the poster saying Flamers shouldnt do anything to SM armour - uh, no, flamers WILL kill space marines.

I thought it was ok. It wasn't PERFECT, but then again what is?
I found that some of the dialogue at places was a bit clunky. Overall the scripting for this was pretty good, but there were parts of the movie where I found myself mentally cringing (or maybe it was because I was watching this with my dad ). Not a bad job for a first try, though! I hope Codex pictures can release more 40k movies on a bigger budget in the near future.
7.5/10

Yeah, it'd be nice to see what they could do with a budget that was even 25% larger. They had a very solid voice cast, and some of the CGI effects were pretty good (the smoke looked like smoke and the flames looked like flames, good light sourcing) but overall it was a little weak, particularly the walking/running cycles which we got to see so much of.

The 'speeder was darn awesome though. hoping to see some IG in the sequel just to give a sense of scale to the Astartes

It was ok. Could have been better as far as the enemies were, I mean just a large pack of Chaos marines charging really adds no character to a villain you can potentially grow to love/hate/love to hate. No manipulative sorcerers, no scheming chaos lords, just some dudes from black legion who get plastered charging up at the Ultras for a good 5mins. Throw some benny hill music in that sequence and you have comedy gold.

Movie just flatout was poo. This is 2011, that was like 90's.

Beast Wars probably holds more weight than this movie.

As someone who's been watching Beast Wars on DVD recently ('Code of Hero' being the next episode, wo!) I'll say that the writing n BW is definitely better so far, but the CGI of Ultramarine is leaps and bounds better than what Mainframe was putting out in 1996/97

I'm sorry but if you can't get fire to look like fire and smoke to look like smoke you fail at animation lol. The animation in beast wars is better than in Ultramarines. I was saying the same exact thing lolol.