TBF, Mags, you have been doing a lot of the heavylifting for the quest, so this will be in good hands.
To be clear to everyone, this is just me burning out on imagination of the quest, since my muse has been hitting me over the head a lot with so many different ideas that I just can't find myself too interested in this.
I'll still hang out here, though, since this still does have a sepcial place in my heart.
I'd like to thank you all for making this a wonderful experience while it lasted.
I'd also like to thank @Magoose, @Fluffy_serpent, and @Martin Noctis for doing so much to help prepare and write this quest. I couldn't have done it without you all.
Devil's Hour: Dead Man's Gold Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
Written by: Felix Graves and Isaac "Ike" Cullen
Produced by: Francis Ford Coppola
Production and Distribution Studio: Lucasfilms Unlimited
Starring: Ben Kingsley (Dr. John "Jack" Seward), Kevin McNally (Donovan MacCool), Billy Barty (Graudy Pernell), Kenny Baker (Niall O'Riely), Jack Purvis (Liam "Big Red" Deugall), Zelda Rubenstein (Millicent Deugall), David Rappaport (Malocolm Crawkins), and Candy Clark (Melodia)
Budget: $30,000,000 Domestic: $103,443,213 International: $100,445,232 Total Gross: $203,888,445
If you were going to be honest with yourself, then you'd have to admit that Francis' choice of movie did not seem to make much sense to you. Sure, perhaps the premise seemed interesting and unique while also working with his own strengths of mystery and suspense, along with a good helping of inter-family politics...but it was a movie about two men going to solve a murder mystery in an urban fantasy setting as they faced leprechauns, trolls, spriggans and all sort of different manner of folklore creatures without it being some sort of action or adventure story.
It was a bit too out there, and this was coming from you!
To begin with, the story of how the film was created comes down to Dave and his friends, Felix Graves and Ike Cullen, when they first started working for Lucasfims and they thought that they would try and impress you with a movie about Ireland, celebrating its mythology and folklore by tying up some of the most interesting knowledge about the many mystical creatures, whether they came from the Emerald Isle or Western Europe. It was supposed to be a simple story, one that would perhaps have at best a single entry while not trying for more. Yet the combination of their imaginations, as well as many trips to the library to find more information about just what exactly where Leprechauns, Pookas, etc., just expanded the script into what was basically a more political take on a murder story.
Francis seemed to love it though! He could not wait to begin work on it, calling dibs from the very beginning on the tale.
It involves a duo of investigators who at first glance seem to just be there for a regular investigation, nothing new or out of place, but it's only when secret phrases and emblems start showing that one gets the feeling that there is something more to it, and when they meet an honest to goodness leprechaun who then takes them to a hidden community for all manner of folklore creatures who live their own lives separate from human interference...well, then you know that you're no longer in Kansas when it comes to the movie.
It continues from there watching as our intrepid pair explore this new land, and yet it's not with eyes of wonder and unbelief that they move through the "Auldport" as it's called, but with a more carefree attitude, the likes of men who have done this perhaps over a thousand times before, implying that this is not their first rodeo when interacting with the creatures of myth. Their investigation, what one would call mundane in any other detective story, is thus enhanced by the novelty of seeing humans interact with the different organizations and traditions from those so different, yet so similar, to humanity itself. Clearly a lot of effort has been given to both the exploration of old tales as well as customs one most keep when dealing with the unnatural, that they added not only Leprechauns but all sort of different creatures calls to that, but it's also the small touches of environmental storytelling that allows one to just let itself be taken in by the gorgeous displays of sceneries and sets that have their own tales to express.
After meeting an entire assortment of colorful characters, all with their own depths and personalities like Niall, the cowardly leprechaun that turns to stealing from the other great clans (including his own), or Liam, the most angry, yet oddly honorable, Leprechaun there is, and not to mention Malocolm, a family man through and through that nonetheless has committed crimes, yet accepts his punishment with dignity and grace, you finally get to the finale of the tale. And these are just some of the cast of characters that managed to make an impression on you, as you've yet to mention Melodia, who Dave once told you was only supposed to make a single appearance, and yet grew even more through the writing.
The finale...there are no words that can make justice to seeing it. Just like any good detective story, the moment where the detective finally unveils it all and finds the culprit is a classic, and yet many others just botch it all. It is a critical moment that needs the gravitas, entertainment and originality so as to not simply copy what others are doing. And the movie delivers just that; the reveal doesn't happen among a selected group of people, but among a gathering of the most influential, along with reporters who tend to interrupt, but also help in moving the reveal along.
The explanation, the flash backs and callbacks to the often-ignored scenes that nonetheless no one can claim were just added for that reason alone, the final reveal and the pure vindictive glee on the main investigator's face as he pushes the real culprit for the murder to confess, the very Leprechaun that had brought them to investigate, the victim's own brother, makes for a magnificent tense moment where the it all feels just so cathartic to have the truth finally come out. The final gratitude and respect from those who'd doubted them, and a celebratory drink just enhances what was one of the best experiences you've ever seen in cinema when it comes to detective stories.
Frankly, you'd expected much less, and yet you were given so much more. The small details that were clearly there but you never noticed until rewatching the film, how every conversation and every scrap had a logical reason and purpose, how each of the characters were played to perfection by the actors selected, even to the perfect chemistry between the leads played by Ben Kingsley and Kevin McNally, two rising stars of British cinema (and Hollywood along with Lucasfilms if you have anything to say about it!) who Francis was lucky enough to pick.
The pair play Dr. John "Jack" Seward and his assistant Donovan respectively, a duo that clearly takes inspiration form the iconic duo of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, though their interaction tend to be a bit more emotional, with Dr. Seward being a more reserved person, the more intellectual and sophisticated of the duo, while Donovan however is the muscle, the more simple-minded man who wears his emotions on his sleeves and does not shy from letting everyone know about it. Normally one would think this is just another of the many copies that one creates when making detective movies, yet it's the interactions and many idiosyncrasies that they are given that just make them unique and charming to see; like how Donovan tends to love his drink, yet knows that there is a time and place for it, or how Dr. Seward always seems to have pen and paper on hand to take constant notes of everything he sees and speaks with.
Above all however, are the excellent performance from most of the dwarf actors that clearly displayed their range and ability when it came to working on an excellent script; Billy Barty made an excellent job as Graudy Pernell, the actual murderer who hid himself so well so as to bring both Dr. Seward and Donovan. A man used to playing more comedic and jokester roles, he made excellent use of his experience to play the part of the innocent man, yet when the time came managed to put on an excellent take of a rat being cornered, along with the rage of being caught, making many wonder if they ever knew him at all. Kenny Baker, whom you've worked in all Star Wars films so far, has managed to add another feather to his cap of great performances as Niall O'Riely, the cowardly m leprechaun thief who nonetheless manages to find his courage in the end and finally own up to his own mistakes and crimes.
Jack Purvis and David Rappaport, both men who've worked together before, played Liam "Big Red" Deugall and Malocolm Crawkins respectively, and each was suitable casted for the task at hand. Purvis could ring on the rage when it was called for, yet could also show his honorable side when he allowed the investigation and accusation for his crime on consorting with the Pookas to be revealed. And David Rappaport, oh man you were nearly in tears when he injected so much emotion in his goodbye to his son, not being melodramatic, but being so human as he tried to explain he would need to go for a long time.
Of particular surprise to you was Candy Clark. You know that Dave told you her role was to be a small one before it grew, yet she did not seem to balk at the challenge, but rather take it head on; near every scene she's in she steals it, her mannerisms, attitude, the way she just moves into everyone's personal space to knock them off center, as well as play with their minds with her expressions and word play. it all so perfectly adds up to show just why Melodia is one of the top crime bosses of Auldport, and why for a human, even if she's a witch, she's still clearly respected and feared among every mythical creature.
The music clearly helped as well. Francis went with composer Patrick Gowers, a man who had already proven himself many times over in his films, TV shows, and even theatrical plays. Patrick at first did not seem sure as this was somewhat beyond what he usually worked with, but was willing to take on the challenge. The result is a beautiful mix between Irish traditional instruments, along with classical music and occasionally some Scottish thrown in as well. It certainly evokes feelings for the old mother country in you whenever you hear it.
Instruments which made their greatest contribution when the Pookas made their first appearance. Francis really made an excellent job by making sure to highlight the tension when the vile creatures were mentioned, yet never once show what they looked like until the very end. When they were shown with all their nastiness, their wickedness and uglyness, there was no one who could deny that these were creature of evil incarnate, and that to make deals with them one would have to be as wicked as they are, or truly desperate with nothing left to lose. That they mentioned "Kings, Princes and Lord Protectors" as those who had once bought their services did not go over the audience's head either; after all, there has only been one "Lord Protector" of Ireland.
And in the end, the audience loved it all; the setting, the characters, the music, the overall originality and the pair of investigators braving the supernatural to bring justice to even the most unusual of creatures. Both the domestic and the International Office brought great earnings, with Ireland and Great Britain being among the biggest watchers of what many of them hope it may become a franchise. It was the care and love shown for the old traditions, as well as the amazing work by your Magicians that showed that not everything had to be glamourized or even put by the same lenses as Hollywood to make it great. Heck, Ardmore Studios actually agreed to the buyout you'd been in negotiations for after seeing the film, recognizing it as a work of love for the old Irish traditions and understanding that you were not just going to turn them into just another copy of Lucasfilms.
Now, where the hell did they got that idea from? Well, after getting over that hurdle they went on to ask to allow them to continue making more movies for Devil's Hour. If not for America then for Ireland, where Dr. Seward and Donovan have been elevated to near hero status and many want to see their adventures continue.
On the critics' side, many are praising the return to cinema of Francis once more. After Apocalypse Now (whose production really deserves its own movie if what Francis tells you it's true!) Francis had been mostly quiet when it came to filmmaking, with many articles already proclaiming him as being "burned out" or just trapped in a contract with Lucasfilms that he could not get out of (as if you were in the habit of doing such). But this movie once more reminded both audience and critics alike that for all that George, Steven and Martin had managed to take on the spotlight at Lucasfilms, he was still a force to be reconned, and one that was to be watched when he made an even greater debut later on with Dune.
You expected a single movie, and what you got was a beginning of a franchise. Not bad at all Francis.
Tis an honor to finally have my pitch made and for it to be a success.
I want to thank my co-author and righter of my errors @King crimson, Overmind who made this sidestory, our beautiful QM @Magoose, my mom, my dad, my family, my next door neighbors who I have never met, Genghis Khan, Princess Diana, Fred Flintstone, a rabbit that I saw once, every single worker who helped make the Great Wall of China, GEICO Insurance, John Cleese who I stole this speech idea from, Benjamin Disraeli, Notch, Bruce O'Brian, Home Depot, Crocodile Dundee, every single Power Ranger movie, Rupert Murdoch, Al Capone, and lastly, but certainly not least, God.
Lawyer's Dozen Season 2 Created by: William Wolcott
Studio: Lucas TV
Distribution: Paramount Television Service
Original Release: September 1981-March 1982
Along with Pluto and Cupid, Lawyer's Dozen would be the sendoff of Lucasfilms' brief stay on PTVS. While Lawyer's Dozen lacked the traditional narrative structure of its sibling show, the innovative storytelling and unique concepts really intrigued people last year and the promises of more kept many returning to PTVS.
For the most part, the show is roughly the same following the concept with a few minor differences. To spice things up and add a greater air of mystery, Lawyer's Dozen kind of parodies legal dramas by having the arcs have the major players of the courtroom be written in very distinct and stylized characters as if they were the main characters of a cop show. However, instead of having the context clues of their motivations and history, these very brash and sometimes grandiose people on either side of the law can only be witnessed through the eyes of the jury. William shared with you on how each arc had a sort of "lore bible" which kind of showed a show within a show for the actors, but left the audiences completely out of the loop and intrigued by the interactions and power plays of each case.
More effort is also taken to go into the finer points of the coutroom, both in the evolving science that prosecution and defense use to help build their case and the mechanics of the American legal system. The interplay of the personalities within the jury is still there, but there's a greater education on how American justice is done both in praise and critique. While some audiences want more of the jury play, apparently lots of recent immigrants actually like this as it keeps them in the know of how America differs from their home nations.
In terms of tone, everything is roughly the same, but since this is both the last season on Paramount and the first season was an established success, Wolcott wanted to push the envelope and share stories that wouldn't traditionally be on a legal drama, particuarly with domestic violence cases and sex crimes, the latter of which was focused by Dick Wolf. Nothing outright rated R, but pushing the envelope of it to the limits so audiences can be more challenged and aware of certain crimes that are kept behind closed doors.
The central performances of the Jury were pretty great, and interesting you got a fair amount of B and A listers trying to secure an audition due to Lawyer's Dozen officially reaching the title of a "Prestige" series and thus a guest star spot was seen as a suitable work for the more famous actors, such being the case with John securing one role as a wsiecracking cynical New Yorker who acted as the devil's advocate and arguer for his arc. Thankfully, Lawyer's Dozen is mostly keeping to its original intention of helping the unknown with established stars being limited to a couple of spots of varying degrees of importance.
Overall, almost all aspects of production were high quality and Lawyer's Dozen continued to be the best legal show on TV. Your favorite episode for this season were a cold case separated by 20 years that really showed the limits of building cases years after its commitment and how far you need to go to gain beyond a reasonable doubt of guilt. There was also, somewhat close to home an episode of a rock star who committed manslaughter and targeted celebrity cases, how juries can really be impartial with the famous, how such fame affects their decision making, and dissecting how law cases go for the rich and elite. An obvious satire on Eddie's case, but you understood that it couldn't have been avoided considering it was the talk of the nation for a while and dissected on other legal and police shows. Carrie wasn't a personal fan, but she understood the necessity and were glad that people were at least keeping Eddie accountable.
Season 2 was met with broad positive reception from audiences and critics with praise for the continued dynamics of the jury and how it offered a unique perspective and parody of legal dramas. However, some critics said it wasn't as good as season one and ratings and profits were considerably less with Lawyer's Dozen being number 23 on the Nielsen ratings. Part of that was Paramount's doing since they moved Lawyer's Dozen and Cupid to Monday since it was going to go to your channel next year. A bit frustrating, but understandable since Paramount finally has a full catalog of shows and it's not the end of the world.
It's tough to say if Lawyer's Dozen will last to the 90s, but at the very least you're glad that the show no matter its long-term legacy and impact isn't just going to be a one and done blip in TV history.
Cupid - Season 2 Created By: Donald P. Bellisario
Starring: John De Lancie (Trevor Hale), Candice Bergen (Dr. Claire Allen) and Howard Rollins (Champ Terrace)
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: Paramount Television Service
Original Release: September 1981-February 1982
When Cupid debuted last year it made quite the splash among the viewers. And how could it not, with such an interesting premise and story, with the right actors for the main leads, with refreshing and new plots to deal with every week as Trevor once more tries to bring in together 100 couples in order to go back to Olympus while Dr, Claire tries to prove he is not Cupid and he needs to let go of this kind of delusion if he wants to be a productive member of society.
The show has such a perfect balance of symmetry between the reality and fantasy that it is so easy to get lost and actually feel for a change. It is okay that you never know for sure if the character is real or insane, because it deals so beautifully with the results of a kind heart amongst the miasma of cold psychology and a hardened society. Who better to demonstrate that love is also painful than the god of love himself, and the tortured life he led as a human being, forced to endure the reality of mortal limitations, while still believing in the reality of immortal love?
John De Lancie can sue be a loose cannon sometimes, adding some manic energy and his own wit to the lines delivered, his character managing to straddle the line between jokester but also dramatic character that must be taken seriously, with the kind of wisdom that can only come through so much experience and heartbreak. It's not surprising that there is a very strong argument for the man to be Cupid despite what many would call, at best, only circumstantial evidence as to his own divine origins. And you can't deny that the chemistry with Candice Bergen is absolutely undeniable. She is the Yin to his Yang, the cold and blunt rational to his wild and ebullient Pathos, extraordinarily beautiful with an Einstein I.Q. that radiates through her eyes, believing with every part of her being that Love is a science that can be deciphered rather than something that needs to be lived.
And the stories that they delivered were so warm, and so fulfilling. Tales of understanding, tales of everyday life, tales of heartbreak and newfound love, with the human element being displayed in all its glory. From the first time where Trevor manages to corm a couple, to the many discussions both him and Dr. Claire have of humanity and its many flaws and virtues. To the interactions between Trevor and Champ about the methods of acting and which one was the superior one, with Trevor insisting Classical Greek was clearly the best one. Howard himself was, if clearly a third wheel on most occasions, not an unwelcome one as he made a space for himself that had him make an unforgettable appearance in nearly every episode.
With such an excellent cast and story behind it, Cupid was a shoe in for renewal, and you were right. Paramount was more than glad to renew the series and try for even more adventures of Trevor Hale and his quest to help 100 couples find romance. Donald once more got to work, and his team, now veterans in this kind of labor, had the entire sets, and permissions for Chicago, all set and ready.
And... well, it was both good and oddly enough not good enough.
How to best explain it...the quality of the series is top notch. Both when it comes to the stories being told as well as the setting and the character chemistry and interactions; John De Lancie keeps on bringing the charm, same as Candice brings in the intellect. Champ keeps on giving it his all, and Donald made sure to bring in guest stars as well to play as the many different couples that needed help, or were just the newest victims of Trevor's meddling. Burt Reynolds, the man whom Donals is trying to pitch for his new series for Lucasfilms, made an amazing show as a single father who's still grieving for his wife. Michael J. Fox, a promising prospect, showed his talent by playing an irresponsible teenager who Dr. Claire tries to set straight. Heck, there was even an episode where he managed to get Elvis to appear in a cameo as himself which just upped the ratings so much that for a moment you dreamed the show would have been number one.
But in the end, it all came down to the type of series instead of the quality of its actors.
For when the series first began it did so as a compromise; Mike believed that what the audience wanted most, and would still be more profitable, would be a more episodic format for the TV Series. It was something that had been compromised for the first season allowing for more character development episodes when it came to the main cast as they developed their relationships, every episode mattered in some way, yet you could also enjoy them on their own. Which is why when the second season began, it did so this time with daily adventures as Trevor once more tried to bring in the couples together, it had the daily occurrences and interactions between the characters...but it no longer seemed to matter anymore.
It all went down to an episodic format, one that you were amazed Brandon would have allowed, until you discovered that he had been so busy with making sure the newly produced shows (not to mention the newly acquired shows) were properly funded, casted and ready to begins production for the new Channel's debut (which you still had to find a name for). Frankly, he could not stop the "suggestions" from Paramount to try and make Cupid be a bit more like its own other successful TV Shows...which of course meant that what had made it so successful and griping had now been reduced to a "couple of the week" format that had less character development than one would expect.
Worst part is, you know they did not have bad intentions when they did this, they just thought they were doing you a favor.
The results were a noticeable dip in the interest for the show, the audience having grown fond of the many conflicts, the consequences and character development of the characters. To see it all become a show where everything just goes back to its status quo every week just seemed so...bland in the end. If anything, this finally put to rest the debate in LucasTV as to whether Serialized TV had a future. Sure, episodic shows will still have their place, but Cupid is not one of them, not now, and not for a long time if you had your say.
Still, overall, it was not a hard dip, as most of the audience still remained to see it. The stories were still good, funny, and if they could not make use of character development, they made sure to make use of the comedic timing as much as possible in order to entertain the viewers. Episodes like "Much ado about Cupid" where Trevor tried to bring a couple together telling each other that the other liked them has been hailed as one of the funniest episodes ever, which made excellent use of De Lancie's wit. Or perhaps "Guess who's coming for Dinner?" where Dr. Claire has Champ pretend to be her boyfriend for one day to avoid an overenthusiastic suitor, while not telling Trevor about it is just amazing. They made sure to use as many of the tropes available while avoiding it being cliche.
Now that's an accomplishment in and of itself!
Which the audience appreciated if nothing else, as the show's place in the Nielsen Ratings only went down by one place...but man it still bums you out. You were able to speak and course correct for next season, which hopefully will be premiering for your new Channel, but even so you know it's going to be a hard sell to continue.
Critics did not have much to say though, as for them the show still had that spark of life and potential within. The way they spoke, the show, even in its rough patch, it's still fun, still has vitality, and still bring in that mystery and draw for many to just watch and hope to find the clues as to whether Trevor is Cupid or not. Heck, you've heard that there are actual fan clubs dedicated to finding the clues to support each of the theories...as well as to try and find clues that clearly Trevor and Clarice are into each other...is this what they call shipping? Huh, you'd have thought it would have remained only with the anime and cartoons.
There was a stir in the air among the people of Japan, as the Polls were finally closed. The Election was finally over, and there was always going to be some bumbling and grumbling, with many wondering just what the world was coming to when things were changing.
Yet it was still not the same when they closed and more things were changing in ways that many would not imagine.
Especially when donors among the LDP, especially among Sony, were no longer spending exorbitant sums to promote their interests, their eyes turned elsewhere, towards America, and Bruce O'Brian and Lucasfilms, where they have now lost possibly one of the greatest chances for market domination among the tech industry.
And among the youth, seeing that the American Gaijin and his fellow workers among them were showing Japan a new way. A healthier way than that has been the Japanese Way for the last 30 years, since the Post War Government began.
It showed them all that the growing powers, monopolistic mega-corporations, and powerful political parties and movements were able to be faced down. To be shown… something more.
And that it would not need to be anti-western, or anti-foreign, plying for the days before the atomic bombs and the Old Empire.
No, they say trust.
They saw something in the movies and television shows that their countrymen were making.
Those goliaths could be slain. That the monoliths could be beaten.
That the status quo could finally be beaten. All that was required was showing up.
An older member of this new organization, Yukio Hatoyama, looked to his small group of supporters and pulled out a banner. "Everyone… we have shown up to save our country from the path that will soon be becoming our way. Let us hope we can all succeed, in charting a new course for Japan."
Reward: A New Political Party has begun to pick up steam in Japan. A Left-Leaning Liberal party that has taken form and is rapidly trying to change the way Japan operates to bring a more American style of workweek and health to Japan. Among many other ideas to change Japanese society for the better.
It is called the New Japan Party, and it may change the nation that it is in.
AN: TLDR: a party from the future has arrived to the past, and is... well
Due to our influence and Sunries incredible and productive work culture spilling out into other places in Japan, others want to emulate it and so that other industries can profit from it.
And that may lead to massive changes to Japan's demographics if the Party succeeds in implementing those reforms.
Ah well I guess we still have to do Sony lawsuit then also everyone make omakes for the Sony option unless it's has the lawsuit modifers and also make sure the NJP wins and reforms
Speaking of, how fucking absolutely tragic would it be for John Milius to have gone through all that shit, documenting the whole of the Romanian war for the sake of Red Dawn, developing actual PTSD from the experience, the multiple turns dedicated to trying to help him overcome his PTSD and get back into film, and all the awful shit he's had to deal with because of this and all the things he's done for Red Dawn... only for it to roll low and turn out shit, despite any bonuses. Fuck, I'd be devastated.
Reward: A New Political Party has begun to pick up steam in Japan. A Left-Leaning Liberal party that has taken form and is rapidly trying to change the way Japan operates to bring a more American style of workweek and health to Japan. Among many other ideas to change Japanese society for the better.
It is called the New Japan Party, and it may change the nation that it is in.
AN: TLDR: a party from the future has arrived to the past, and is... well
Due to our influence and Sunries incredible and productive work culture spilling out into other places in Japan, others want to emulate it and so that other industries can profit from it.
And that may lead to massive changes to Japan's demographics if the Party succeeds in implementing those reforms.
So to clarify, it's not like the party is in power at the moment, merely that New Japan has made an explosive debut in the election and is rising in popularity among the Japanese youth and frustrated middle class?
So it's the 1980s, and action movies are now a thing. Based on how I see the timeline influencing them, have an original script.
With Bruce's success with the Foundation and America's changed outlook, the Vietnam vets are not being forgotten this time. Less lost rouge soldiers, More Chinese as the foes.
The big question America is Grappling with is why the Vietnam War happened. I expect ITL Many conclude the war occurred because Vietnam was not given the Freedom it deserved and rebelled against its colonial masters. America, Secure in its own infallibility post-WW2 and its Public's almost blind trust in its government, allowed itself to be deceived and used as a Colonial oppressor. And like in 1776, the result was predictable.
The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.
America was not vigilant, so it now needs to be more so. It needs to question its leaders, their motives, and their actions. It needs to watch its borders, its friends, and especially its foes. But what to look for? Who was responsible, who contributed, and how was it manipulated in the first place?
France Lost a great deal in Vietnam, and NATO was weakened. Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos were devastated. China emerged from Vietnam with a stronger position in the Asian continent and an independent Voice in American actions in the region; I expect ITL, after the assassination attempt on Bruce, many will wonder how much "help" was given for the war to start and end that way and what other covert actions the Chinese may be taking.
Blitz: Cascadia
Rainy weather lashes the outside of the building. Almost nothing is visible through the front glass, directly contrasting the bank's warm, cheery and almost homelike environment. Reduced visibility and strong wind mean a van suddenly looms as it pulls in and parks close to the window. A group of heavily bundled figures disembark, wrapped in dark coats, hats, and scarves, rush towards the bank doors, charging in before a wind gust slams the door shut behind them, causing the lights to flicker.
Polite laughter and a friendly look from the security guard morph into horror as under the coats, hats, and scarves are ballistic vests and heavy weapons.
Thunder booms and the power goes out except for the lights on the guns. Money and the "Red Box" is demanded by leaders. A frightened teller states that safe doors will not open as power is out. And personal safety deposit boxes are behind that, too. A slightly crazy-looking oriental person carrying a gas-powered concrete saw carrying an acetylene tank on the back and dynamite in pockets steps inside. The leader, a heavyset figure with a Russian accent, responds That it will not be a problem. Your assistance would have been convenient, but it is ultimately unnecessary. The camera pulls back, and the sound of a heavy machine gun fires. The camera zooms back, catching the truck and the logo of a Sawmill on the side.
Title sequence.
Close-ups of Polaroids in a pile being examined, moved, pinned to the wall and discarded provide the mechanism for the opening titles, eventually revealing the detective's office and creating an impression of the case so far. Violent robbery, heavy weapons used, bundled figures. Ruthless actions, no survivors. Personal deposit boxes are being targeted all in or around the Pacific Northwest. On the pinup board next to the calendar is a picture of the detective's old squad with details indicating only four are still alive, as well as a Veterans weekend. Another polaroid from the conspiracy board is accidentally placed over the top, leaving only three squad mates visible. The calendar advances, more photos are added to the conspiracy board, and the office becomes progressively messier. An argument with a superior, and the final item is a document implying the detective has gone on leave.
The film properly begins with a Veterans BBQ. The detective, Doughnut, arrives and greets two of the four around the table with enthusiasm as they are the squamates, then turns to the Vietnamese and offers an almost warm greeting. He sits and is ambushed by the dog-seeking pats, which he gives, and he notes a still empty chair.
Around the table, the five Main characters and the dialogue identify the characters' personalities and past. The subject is the Vietnam War; the discussion is old and meant to reflect the mixed feelings ITL about the US involvement.
The five-man Band's characters are John Smith, face, leader, mediator, and Audience surrogate; "Doughnut" Cop / Heavy Patriot; Dr Love, Medic / Animal handler, War critic; Chin Na, "Na" Scout, Viet Minh and recent American, runs a food cart; Dong Me "Charles", Demolitions / Traps / Sabotage; Viet Cong and also recent American, "Cleaner."
One line used in the discussion is that America is supposed to be the arsenal of democracy, not capitalism. While voting Communist is stupid, if it was a legal vote, it should have been respected.
The rarity of the survivalist/lumberjack and old squad leader Heath to attend is brought up to change the subject. The cop thinks his absence, while not unusual, is worth following up on if only to check-in. A brief discussion about the rumoured activities Heath was up to has a mostly humorous bent and is ironic in foreshadowing. After further discussion, they decided to spend the rest of the weekend in the Pacific Northwest checking up on their friend.
First, the group goes to a sawmill on the edge of town. The shot shows the billboard with the same logo as the van in the intro as they drive past. Before they can enter, they are met by a Shady Chinese fellow, Zidu ( who gets growled at by Dog). Zidu introduces himself as a senior employee running the business for their friend and says their friend is away. Try at his off-grid Cabin. Zidu stumbles over Heath's name and is corrected. The group agrees to check the Cabin, but they comment that it seems odd as they drive to the Cabin. After the hero's visit, the Cutaway shot has Zidu quickly state something on a hidden radio. (bilingual bonus if you understand Cantonese – the Monsters friends are here, ambush them at the Cabin) As the Band drives away, there is an agreement to meet back here if they have to be separated for some reason.
Arrival at Cabin in the late afternoon. The weather is clear and cold weather. The approach is peaceful as the car follows the track until the last bend, revealing a damaged cabin with the front door smashed in. Leaf litter is everywhere, and the interior is damaged and looted. Doughnut insists that they be careful as this is a probable crime scene. The team spreads out, looking for clues. Old blood is found, indicating a fight and potentially a severe injury for someone. Then Charlie sees a freshly made Vietnam-style Leg trap In the nearby plant life. The shock gives way to suspicion, and a more martial approach to the search is taken.
Doc finds Traces of the survivalist with the help of the Dog, leading to the discovery of a stash holding some undeveloped film canisters, a leaflet with the same sawmill logo as a truck, and a hand-drawn building map on the back, which indicates he hid it while injured. Another trap is almost set off outside the building, and the team decides it is too dangerous to stay after dark.
A hard case is collected from the Cabin from a rack showing two missing with a green and yellow one left. The green is taken, and the film is put in. Na carefully searched the area they found, with Charles offering support. Na finds a carn with a foreign symbol on a rock and calls Charles to translate. This dialogue reveals Charles was from the North. Charles states he thinks it means danger but does not understand Chinese well enough to be sure. It is next to a second rock that has been knocked over.
All are a little spooked and agree to return to town to get the film developed and report this. A shadowy figure arrives just in time to see the Band pull away.
The group returns to the town to call in what they have discovered. Again, as they pass the sawmill, they notice and comment on the Sawmill / Dock on the way in. Doughnut says it reminds him of something. Doc states the dock on which they left Vietnam. The Vietnamese state that it was nothing like when they left, with no screaming mob trying to kill them.
As they arrive at the small town Police Station next to the Hotel and Bar, they find out that a brutal murder of the town's only Police Officer has taken place, and Heath is blamed. Some of Heath's missing possessions are attached to a dummy being burned in an effigy in the square and paraded around as "Proof". Doughnut grabs paper from the desk in the Police station and starts writing a report as John attempts to tell the receptionist what they found. After revealing that they are associates of Heath, an agitated receptionist tells the whole Band to get out of town before town turns on them. She will report their presence to the Police in the nearest city for backup.
A crowd begins to form from people coming out of the bar and into the town as word spreads that the Band is here and is the survivalist's friend. It should be noted that the rumour starts from someone leaving a Chinese shop, not the receptionist or hotel. There are some Chinese figures in the slowly growing crowd.
Face attempts to negotiate and get out to no avail. The receptionist states that they are under arrest, only for the Band to see the car get set alight by the Mob. There is an open question of whether the Mob will arrest them or simply kill them. Dr Love comments that this is too fast and extreme; something is wrong here. Don't kill civilians.
Action Sequence: sneaking out of town and Attempting to avoid conflict. Most of the damage to the town is caused by the unusually aggressive and suggestable Mob. When some angry Mob hesitate, the Chinese plants blame the heroes and reignite the fury. While most opponents are stereotypical big, burly lumberjack/outdoorsmen/dockworker build, at least one mob "Hero" is an old granny with a frypan. She is evaded rather than fought. Vietnamese reminisce about sneaking out of Vietnam.
The Band Escapes the Mob using a mix of physical skill, wits, and violence. The heroes use tricks like Hiding on the ceiling using sheer strength, rolling under a house or hiding under leaf litter or an upturned water barrel, and stealthily jumping fences when the Mob's backs are turned. When combat cannot be avoided, the heroes use martial arts to quickly knock out and pin their opponents.
They all eventually make it back to the sawmill/dockyard. Now that they are no longer pursued, they have a chance to investigate, and the team realises that The Map hidden in the green case is of this building and clearly shows secrets in red.
The sawmill has hidden doors, peepholes, a hidden dock under the dock, and concealed storerooms. Inside one of the non-concealed storerooms are empty barrels with wine labels. Inside one barrel are a few Soviet weapons, implying that the rest also held weapons. There is also speculation that the docks are being used to smuggle weapons and goods into the country.
All hide again as Zidu comes into the office and uncovers the radio. Zidu Reports that the survivalist had friends looking for him and that the Ambush at the Cabin was too late. The follow-up action in town, which involved riling up the townsfolk, was unsuccessful, even with the "enhancement chemicals". Zidu is fearful during the report. a Russian voice answers that Zidu's Failure as head of the operation in town will be reported, and to return to camp for cleanup and to close the operation. Zidu protests, stating that the riches are still not packed and the treasure has not yet been found in the sawmill. The sound of a broken bottle comes over the radio, and Zido yells that it better not be his American wine, which he stole fair and square. The voice states that he is packing to leave now and that if Zidu wants to decide what is extracted, Zidu should come now.
Zidu, fearful of losing the loot he has collected so far, rushes off to protect his gains so fast that the team can't sneak into the truck. Zidu, however, reveals he is going to a specific logging camp upriver.
The heroes plan their next moves, and using the green crate map, they search the building, and the treasure is found. The survivalist had a Mini sub hidden beneath one of two piers and a stash of weapons and armour stored in it. The team arms itself, and the green case is put into the sub for safekeeping. Charles is atypically happy to have explosives. The rest of the group kept at a wary distance.
Now, at nighttime, the team sneaks through the Cascadia forest and river region, landslips, floating logs, evidence of timber work, and an old gold mine. They avoid several patrols of Chinese wearing Chinese army uniforms. The Patrol is clearly not used to the Pacific Northwest weather or forest. There are also near misses with environmental hazards such as avalanches and near falling into the river. There is also a comment that American forests are better than Vietnamese Jungles. Each character has an opinion contradicted by the next piece of terrain.
Arrive at the site, a repurposed logging camp. Na scouts camp. Missing vans from the Sawmill/dock. Mysterious chemicals are being pumped into the water. A Russian helicopter under a tarp. More soldiers and a firepit with broken bank vault stuff near the timber shed are being used to sort and pack the lot as fast as possible. Safety deposit boxes are being smashed open, jewellery and other valuables are removed, and sentimental keepsakes are thrown onto a fire.
Na is hidden but close enough to hear the Exposition dump conversation between the Zidu man and the Russian. Volkov is here as an advisor only. If shooting starts, his order is to leave with the "Red box," he recommends wrapping up the mission now. Zidu insists that Americans are weak, stupid, cowardly, and lazy, and the Vietnamese are not much better. Zidu goes on to say He fought in Vietnam, so he knows. Besides, the chemicals he puts in the water make Americans stupid and aggressive. Survivalist was quickly dealt with, and his friends will be, too. Ziou wishes to stay longer to maximise any possible personal financial gain.
Volkov politely disagrees and states that the survivalist was a worthy opponent. Killing him was a Duty for Russia, just as it was for the survivalists to kill or expose Volkov before he did. Again, Volkov reminds Zidu that the Russian is just an advisor on loan to China, not Zidu and shouldn't have to be doing anything. Zidu disagrees and goes back to checking loot. In disgust, Volkov checks the helicopter and the "Red Box" in it.
After resuming scouting, NA discovers an Armoury, the chemical tank and its controls, the main building, a loot pile, and a Red Box, leading to a retreat to plan their assault.
The assault goes well initially; a silent takedown gets access to the armoury. Then explosives are planted to disable tanks and stop them from dumping chemicals in the nearby river and provide a distraction so they can RPG the helicopter's tail, making it unable to fly. They raided the office for documents and grabbed a familiar red hard case. The assault kills some Chinese mooks. It also injures Zidu, but the team are unable to capitalise on it before being driven back by Volkov, who, using brute strength, demounts the helicopter's chaingun and uses it as a hand weapon. Volkov Follows the team in slow pursuit.
"Zidu rants at the Mooks and demands, 'We need to chase immediately! "waning shot from almost out of range Volkov". Urk No. First, we load the loot into trucks, then destroy the camp and erase all traces of our presence, just like Volkov's plan. And then, we can start the chase. (yelling) Are you happy now, Volkov?'"
Shootout / chase down the logging river in the early morning. Set pieces of this sequence involve. Boat chase, Martial arts on floating logs, ducking underwater and behind logs to avoid being shot. Use of landscape features hinted at during the night trek upriver, fallen logs, landslide positions, etc., to disable and ambush trucks and boats. Taking cover behind trees when being shot at from the transports and seeking denser bushes, then dealing with the men that dismount to pursue them. Each time a vehicle is disabled, the following truck is made to collect all lost loot before it resumes pursuit. As the action escalates and the town and sawmill get closer, Zidu gets angrier and more involved with fighting.
The team slowly disables, taking many monks with them until finally, Charles takes a bullet for John, leaving John and Zidu the only ones still active. All others have been slowly whittled down suitably dramatically and are being looked after by Dr Love. The Dog takes down the final mooks who would otherwise have shot Dr. Love. Only John and Zidu are still in active conflict.
The current takes logs into the sawmill. The final truck was lost outside, and Zidur, now fighting John on a log, was pulled into a sawmill. Zidu and John continue their Martial arts duel in the mill. Zidu avoids a giant saw blade, steps back, and slips on his bad leg, hitting his head on the floor and falling into the water. He pulls the red case with him.
The red case floats out towards the Sea. There is a race to retrieve it with a bargepole versus Zidu swimming underneath. John grabs it out of the water ahead of Zidu. On the other pier, Volkov appears, having pulled up in the last truck and waking up to mini-sub with the unseen blue case so far. Zidu, in water, demands that Volkov save him and get the Red Case back. Volkov replies that the Blue case was his mission, the Red case was Zidu's, and a fishing trawler is now waiting for him in international waters.
Volkov salutes the American's success, states he has a Favor to ask to ensure a hero is recognised, and escapes with the sub, leaving behind a note.
John tries to capture Zidu as the mini-sub pulls away. Still, Zidu manages to fight them off before going under, bleeding heavily.
The Police and army arrive shortly after the action finishes for cleanup. The Police officer, Doughnut, added to the receptionist's communication back in town last night. After the cleanup and securing of the frontier town, the townsfolk were confused about what had happened and why they were so angry. The townsfolk are unsure what they were doing and now seemed perfectly happy to talk about health, and while he was a loner, he was considered a good guy. Granny is pleasantly confused and offers muffins to the heroes and newly arrived Police and asks if they are Heath's friends goes on to say that they are always welcome if they are
Charles survives being shot with nil complications. When arriving, medics asked why he kept throwing himself in front of bullets; Charles replied that he was loyal to Vietnam while Vietnamese. Now, he is American and loyal to America.
Epilogue: The note Volkov left behind leads to the cairn near the Survivalists' damaged Cabin. The Rock that the team could have checked earlier is turned over. In Russian, it reads Spare a thought stranger, Valiant Foe Buried here. The team reaffirms their bonds and questions if it was Chinese or communist interference and a lack of vigilance that led to the Vietnam War.
Part credit scene: Volkov is reporting to his superiors, showing them the contents of the blue and green cases,
Post credit scene
Zidu pulls himself out of the water onto a fishing boat, freezing at the sight of the boots of an unimpressed Chinese General. He hands over a small film canister and, when it looks like he will be pushed overboard, a handful of treasures. The general nods and accepts the bribe. He discreetly pockets it, formally accepting the treasure and letting Zidu live. Zidu then comically collapses as the general walks away.
Characters
Heroes
John Smith is the lead, face and negotiator. An Everyman American stand in. He questions what is going on. He is the least burnt out of the veterans. Everyman stands in. He is implied to have served in South Korea and was too young to go to Vietnam. More McClane than his more recent movies.
-Bruce Willis
Oliver Carson "Doughnut" Steele- Cop / Martial Artist – Slow to change his mind firm and by the book. American / Americans did everything right attitude. Walker Texas Ranger at his most Preachy
-Chuck Norris
Dr. Donald Oliver Gale Love is a medical doctor and a dog handler who deals with trauma by looking after the Dog. He was not the original handler; his dead identical twin was. He has an America did everything wrong attitude. Dr Richard Kimble's distrust
-Harrison Ford
Chin Na – "Na" Food salesman - Overall grateful for American intervention in Vietnam. Former Boatperson. Most hostile to Chinese.
-Dustin Nguyen
Dong Me "Charles"– Stereotypical Vietnamese Communist as per propaganda reels. Left as purges began. He was proud of fighting for his country. Wishes America kept out of Vietnam. Bait and switch all movie that was traitor as express positivity for Chinese but take a bullet for unhesitatingly. He was loyal to Vietnam before. The USA is now his country, so he is Loyal.
-Đơn Dương
Foes
Zidu - Shady Chinese Triad/crime. Greedy, selfish, and barely loyal to the country. Comedic but underestimate him and die. unconventionally Dangerous.
-Jackie Chan
Volkov – Russian advisor stoic and respectful, offers sound advice and is polite but cold-blooded. Aiming for a similar feel to General Gogol except more physically imposing.
-Sam Neill
-Or Dolph Lundgren, but the timeline does not match up
Minor
Heath – Original squad leader. Cascadian timber owner-operator. Implied to be either a Survivalist or a Spy and killed by Volkov.
Heath is Sir not appearing in this film. Use a picture of Bruce and play into the mysterious persona.
Soundtrack: Ask Queen if they would be interested, and if they are ask if they can do something similar to or around the sound of Who Wants to Live Forever.
Otherwise go for John Williams or even Harold Faltermeyer who wrote my favorite piece of action movie music with Top Gun Anthem.
Thanks to @Duke William of for pre-reading and advice.
Casting could do with some work I really wanted them to be played by actors of the right Ethnicity. I am willing to accept suggestions if anyone has ideas.
So to clarify, it's not like the party is in power at the moment, merely that New Japan has made an explosive debut in the election and is rising in popularity among the Japanese youth and frustrated middle class?
The Premise: During their break period from touring, their manager walked in with what he saw as a 'Make it or Break it truly international deal'. This was revealed to be a music tour across the continent of Africa, from South Africa, Madagascar, all the way to Morocco and Egypt. Seeing a great next challenge for Queen, Freddie sees the idea as also a great opportunity to create a new album for the band. During it, Deacon is just fiddling along his bass, Brian seeing it as a potential to expand Queen's PR and a fun adventure, Taylor reluctant seeing as it was just their break period.
There is a B-plot side to the movie, as it's various warlords (that bands together over the course of the journey) that sees Queen as a threat against their power bases. They attempt sabotages to ruin their concerts, making their life in Africa miserable, etc. These segments end with rather creative (and at times comedic) solutions performed by the Band.
The movie ends in Egypt as the Warlords infiltrate the concert and attempt to hold Queen hostage, Taylor attempts to calm the situation down. This manoeuvre allows Freddie to gather his thoughts and begin convincing them of friendship and pointing out that they've finally found friends with one another, when they were just enemies before Queen's arrival. After a reconciliation moment, the movie ends with a segment where It's Time for Africa is sung by different characters in the movie, the climax of the song led by Freddie as everyone else sings together.
N/A: Surprised you madlads haven't created a film proposition for Queen, I'd also recommend taking a look at Michael Jackson's Moonwalker as a potential film to be created earlier in this timeline.
Alright, this will be the next installment in the Marvel TV shows. Now, I could not make use of Jessica Jones (unfortunately she is not created until the 2000s), so I had originally thought to add Moon Knight as the next show. However, it was only after a conversation later that I realized that there was another character in the show who, while put there as a supporting character only, also has a tragic past, a hard life, and goes on to become one of the leading heroes in the Defenders as well, not to mention that the overall story make so much sense for her as well.
I'm of course talking about Patricia Walker aka Hellcat.
She might not be Jessica Jones, but damn is her life story amazing as well; a girl who tried to please her mother only to be seen as "not good enough" then being used by her to create a media empire based on her fictional adventures, all controlled by her mother, until she was finally able to retake her life and marry her childhood sweetheart, only for said husband to be an abusive asshole and then leaving in the off chance that a mutant she met once is still willing to honor a promise he made a long time ago to turn her into a hero.
It's inspiring it's what it is.
Thus, I give you:
TV Pitch: Hellcat
GENRE: Crime/Thriller/Drama
SUBGENRE: Action/Psychological/Neo-Noir
FORMAT: TV Show
Set Up: Based on the character of Patsy Walker created by Stuart Little and Ruth Atkinson during 1944, as well as reintroduced in 1976 by Steve Englehart and George Perez as Hellcat. Patricia "Trish" Walker, a former child and teen Actor/Model is trying to hide and remake her life after a disastrous period of her life. However, the appearance of new powers, the intrusions of her mother, and the new friendships she makes during her period of stay in New York may have different plans for her, whether she likes it or not.
Showrunner: Mark Frost Composer: John Addison
Season Length: 13 Episodes. Episode Length: 50 Minutes.
Patricia "Trish" Walker is a former child and teen Actor/Model who is trying to live her own life in New York away from her abusive ex-boyfriend (Buzz Baxter), works as a detective in order to make a living and renting an apartment in a crime ridden area of New York, right next to Malcolm Ducasse, a junkie. During one particular trying day, where she had to stalk a cheating wife for a husband looking for evidence for a divorce, she finds herself being assaulted. She defends herself, showing superhuman levels of physical abilities, before giving the evidence to the husband and going back to her apartment, unaware that she is being stalked from afar.
Trish is contacted by a couple who are trying to find their missing daughter, Hope Shlottman, and though Trish does not want to take the case at first, she eventually agrees when she sees how worried the couple are. During her investigation she recalls memories of her past, back when she was still under her mother's thumb and doing everything she wanted just to get her approval and attention, while also meeting with the unsavory elements of the city and those who last saw her. During her research she learns that she was last seen with a man, but when pressed many find that they can't recall his name or how he looked like, and when they try there is a mental block that makes it impossible to think.
Trish tries speaking to the police and records, where Officer Will Simpson does not seem to take her seriously, as his black and white morality causes friction with her usual methods, as well as having already investigated and not being able to find the girl. She nonetheless manages to sneak inside when no one is looking to find information about Hope. However, in the process she also finds information about Malcolm, who is there as an once friend of Hope, someone who once had a future and then suddenly turned to drugs. She's found out, but manages to escape before security catches her or identifies her.
Once back at her building, she manages to get into Malcolm's apartment where she tries to get him to talk about Hope, which Malcolm finds difficult, showing the same symptoms as the others she interrogated, even trying to dose himself once more, before Trish stops him, knocks him out and takes him to the hospital. During his recovery she once more tries to get the information from him, which he tries to push forward, even fighting against what is holding him back, enough to give a name: Erik Gelden. With the name in hand she leaves the hospital in order to search for him.
Trish continues her research where she manages to find more information about Erik, finding more about his life, learning about his former friends, and discovering when he got his powers and how they work (Putting suggestions is strenuous for his mind, and at most he can only read emotions continuously without receiving any backlash). Once she manages to find his location, she has to sneak in, take down his controlled gang, before managing to fight him off and taking Hope away from him. Finding also the name of the one who gave him his powers; the Power Broker.
During the rest of the series, Trish deals with different cases that are related with the Power Broker without her complete knowledge, though at the same time she interacts more with Malcolm, who becomes her assistant in her new job, becoming a mentor to Hope who's trauma she can somewhat relate, while also dealing with the reappearance of her former husband, whom is now harassing her both privately and in public, trying to once more exert his power and influence over her with the help of her mother, who wants her daughter to listen once more to her when it comes to her career. She also meets Damian Helstrom, a fellow detective who dabbles with the Occult, and whom one is never sure if he's joking when he claims it's all real.
At the same time, flashbacks to her past show how she grew up, the control and mental abuse her mother employed against her in order to keep her in check while she became an actress, the friendship/rivalry she formed with fellow actress Hedy Wolfe...as well as how her powers appeared, heavily implying that they were given by the Power Broker as a part of a deal with her mother, one that needs Trish to fulfill, which is why she's being constantly being hounded.
In the end, Buzz manages to contact the Power Broke in order to get powers and be able to finally coerce Trish into once more being with him. After a fight where she finally puts him back in his place, Buzz is taken to prison, as the Power Broker goes to ground, soon being revealed his connections with the Hand, and how his newest clients might be what's needed to finally take care of the "Heroes" problems in New York once and for all.
Patricia "Trish" Walker/Hellcat: She is a former child/teen actor and model who, tired of her mother's manipulations and mental abuse, quit on her career and moved to New York where she decided to become a detective as she always wanted. Hard to trust, somewhat of a snarker, and a bit of a cynic, Trish nonetheless still has the desire to help those in need. She also struggles with the relationship with her mother, as well as dealing with the trauma of her abusive former boyfriend. During her stay, and adventures, in New York, she manages to open up a bit more thanks to the new friendships and relations she builds.
Played By: Julianne Moore Alternate: Lori Loughlin
Damian Helstrom: He is a detective in New York, and a bit of a researcher into the Occult. He and Trish tend to cross paths during her investigations, aiding each other in exchange for future aid, or sometimes leaning on each other for emotional support as they grow closer during the series. Damian is the son of a female satanic cultist, who is convinced he is the "Son of Satan", though he tries to put that behind him. Nonetheless, Damian tends to be a man who cares for people, even if a vindictive side always tends to come out whenever dealing with criminal scum.
Played By: Scott Bakula Alternate: Michael Landon
Malcolm Ducasse: He is Trish's neighbor who struggles with drug addiction, resulting in his personal journey intertwining with hers. It is later revealed that Malcolm was working with Hope in social work, aiding those in need, but when Erik took control of her, he also made him get addicted to drugs in order to make him unable to testify or say what happened. When Trish finds out, she leaves Malcolm handcuffed in her bathroom and forces him to go into withdrawal while she goes for Erik. After his recovery he decides to aid her as her new secretary, as well as aiding Hope get through her trauma and recovery.
Played By: LeVar Burton Alternate: Dominic Hoffman
Hedy Wolfe: She is an ambitious and shrewd woman who once was a rival to Trish during her teenage years. Over time they developed a friendship and respect for each other, as she was the only one whom Trish told about her mother's behavior, and the one who encouraged Trish to follow her dream if this was not making her happy. She aids her when it comes to dealing with her mother.
Played By: Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Hope Shlottman: A student-athlete attending New York University. She was taken by Erik Gelden as his slave until Trish managed to rescue her and all of Gelden's victims. Afterwards she suffers from the trauma of it all, diving into drugs in order to get over it. It's with the help of Trish and Malcolm that she's able to get in the path of recovery, aiding Trish in whatever capacity she can to repay her.
Played By: Heather Locklear
Dorothy Walker: She is Trish's mother, a harsh, manipulative parent, who demanded perfection from her daughter. Eventually, Trish escaped from her mother when she grew up, and cut all ties with her. Dorothy reappeared later, having developed Cancer, and trying to once more connect with her, but in reality it was part of a scam to get her daughter to the Power Broker's in order to get cured.
Played By: Carol Burnett
Robert "Buzz" Baxter: He is Trish former boyfriend, a former teen actor whose career peaked along with Trish and was together mainly for the media exposure and popularity. After Trish left showbiz (and him) his career took a sudden nosedive, leading to him taking any job that he could, and trying to get Trish to once more return to him, eventually making a deal with the Power Broker in his desperation.
Played By: John Posey Alternate: Dean Butler
Erik Gelden: A man with telepathic and mind control abilities that abused them in order to commit crimes and terrify his victims. He managed to get a network that would allow him to keep control of those he had already used his powers on, though he could not make them kill themselves. In the end, he kept on needing more from the Power Broker to keep his abilities, which was his weakness as Trish managed to defeat him.
Played By: Brent Spiner Alternate: Bruce Willis
Gregory Sallinger: A ruthless, hyperintelligent serial killer whose victims tend to be those who have made deals with the Power Broker, believing that those with powers are "cheating" in life against those like him. He sees himself as a crusader and hero, behaving self-righteously as he tries to kill Trish and others, unknowingly leading her closer to finding the Power Broker.
Played By: Gregory Neale Harrison Alternate: Daniel J. Travanti
Will Simpson: He is an NYPD Sergeant who is very serious about his job. He has a black and white morality view that makes him assume that serving justice is easy, which puts him in conflict with Trish and her methods.
Played By: Robert Pastorelli
The Power Broker: The mysterious behind the scenes antagonist that gives powers to those who are willing to pay for them. He has an unusual fascination with Trish and her abilities, willing to do almost anything to capture her.
Played By: Edward Mulhare
A.N.: I have to apologize if it seems like I am replacing Killgrave with Erik Gelden. In the end, I wanted to have something similar to the show as I really liked how they worked that, but at the same time I couldn't just copy paste it. Furthermore, I much preferred that the final villain be Robert Baxter, sort of like how in the comics he became her enemy since he left him as he was abusing her as her husband, and was the push for her to become Hellcat. I just felt that it fit better in this case.
