Description

This week on Shoot the Hostage we’re returning to the pixelated trenches of video-game movies with Warcraft (2016).
Expect our usual attempt into film analysis, swearing and enough spoilers to fill a dungeon raid – so make sure you’ve seen the film before you click that listen button. We’re plunging into the world of Azeroth, scrutinising director Duncan Jones’s vision and whether this computer game adaptation managed to capture the spirit of its massive source material, or if it ended up being an orc-wad cinematic experience.

Join us as we explore the film’s cast, from Travis Fimmel’s Lothar to Paula Patton’s Garona, and the king himself, Dominic Cooper. We’ll also dive into the surprisingly stellar CGI for the Orcs (shout out Tobey Kebbell’s incredible mocap performance as Durotan!) contrasting with some of the physical sets, props and costumes.

Here’s what to expect from this week’s expedition:

• We’ll dissect Duncan Jones’s direction and his legacy after Moon and Source Code.
• Dan will most likely bemoan the fantasy elements, possibly making a prerequisite joke about punching horses (which you should never do!)
• Sarah will share her perspective as a World of Warcraft player, but not the games this film is based on.
• Opinions on the seemingly split fan and critical reception.
• We’ll question if the films $160 million budget was truly visible on screen, especially concerning costumes.
• We’ll dive into the character portrayals by Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, Toby Kebbell, and even the wasted talents of Ruth Negga.
• Debate on whether the film’s “information overload” is too obtuse for newcomers.

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