Communicator (communicator) wrote,
Communicator
communicator

the light is taking me to pieces

When I was in my twenties I read Alan Moore's 'Watchmen'. But I read it in the way that you watch a scary movie, through my fingertips. The experience was almost too intense. I had an urge to re-read it, recently, and ordered it via Amazon. I had to wait two months for it to arrive, though I note they are now saying 'despatch within 24 hours' so I think there has been a recent print run.

I think structure is a vitally important aspect of narrative, in particular of films. 'Watchmen' is so intricately structured that one can hardly believe it. In some cases each panel participates in two or three different structural features, while including a further two or three iconic cross-refernces. It is an awesome work.

The plot, the characterisastion, and even the graphical style, are not (IMHO) outstanding. What is awesome is the structure. There are quite a few online sites drawing attention to some of the most interesting features. Here are some links for anyone who is interested.

http://iat.ubalt.edu/moulthrop/hypertexts/wm/index_old_1100.html

http://www.stahl.bau.tu-bs.de/~hildeb/watchmen/

http://theory.lcs.mit.edu/~wald/watchmen-index.html

They say there is a movie coming up - the time is certainly propitious. I tend to think that any movie could be nothing but a pale imitation. I would prefer it to be directed by Terry Gilliam, but that is not looking likely at the moment. It may be scripted (and/or perhaps directed?) by David Hayter, who wrote X2. I hope they don't pick him to direct it. I think Ridley Scott might be a good choice - but what do I know?

Thoughts on casting (groan) to follow.
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