“It’s not the villainy you prevent, but the good you inspire”
This short film dives into the lives of two men, one hero and one villain, as they reminisce in a bar about the years they have spent besting one another. Magnificent Man (Andrew J Langston) is an ageless superhuman who has spent his life trying to make the world a safe and better place, while Vincent King (Tom Knutson) possesses the superior intellect, but while his mind may be his weapon, his body is failing him. They speak about their encounters, from the intentionally cliché bank robberies, where the bags of money have dollar signs, to plutonium dealings with the Soviets. But there is one question lingering throughout: are Magnificent Man’s efforts all in vain? Has the world really become a better place? Is he just prolonging the inevitable by saving the Earth time and time again?
A large theme in this film is the progression of time. In one aspect of this theme, it is the physical passing. While Magnificent Man does not age, he has to witness changes in both society and his colleagues. His friends and enemies are growing old and soon, he will be the last one of them left. Also, the problems of society are evolving as well. Acts of evil are nameless faces, as super villains are not the only people committing crimes and injustices. There is no single person to blame, no one body to fight for what is being done. Also, for every good deed done by Magnificent Man, with all his power, there are people even he cannot save.
It is common for the villain to be the antithesis of the hero; however, we find that they become similar over time. Though their motivations are different, Vincent King and Magnificent Man are trying to feed their own ambitions. For one, it is besting his rival. For the other, it is making a difference.
I really enjoyed the story, as it really shows what would go on in the personal lives of these individuals. Displayed are main stream villains who are becoming less active and heroes that are now taken for granted, while younger, costumed vigilantes are praised for idolized for every action. Langston and Knutson are incredible actors and really created an emotional connection for myself and their characters. The wide range of feelings portrayed from sadness, smugness, embarrassment, and joy really impressed me. I think that everyone will enjoy the chemistry between these two actors, as it seems, and rightfully so, that they have known each other their whole lives, creating an overall moving performance.
I would highly recommend this film to anyone who is familiar with superheroes, though it could be enjoyed by just about anyone. Because the main characters draw from fairly well known pop-culture, most should recognize and appreciate the story that is being told, as it is a different angle and interpretation of two iconic characters. I applaud what Darkstar Entertainment has done; I believe that they have paired an interesting story with an amazing performance from both Langton and Knutson, creating a short film that will be enjoyable for any audience to watch.
Grade: A
To view this short, please visit www.LostHeroMovie.com and use the password “VincentKing” Enjoy!
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I was write there with you. i enjoyed the film as well.