What’s Your Childhood Trauma?

OK, that’s one question I most probably can’t ask Joss Whedon, the same guy who made that line popular among fans of his works. If I’ll ever get the chance, I’ll probably paraphrase this way: ”What’s so bad about happy endings, Joss?” He’s a great writer, no question, and maybe even better as a filmmaker. I’m trying to get acquainted with all of his works and the only way I can describe what I’ve seen so far is “heartbreakingly awesome,” with emphasis on the heartbreak.

Anyway, here’s one of his most recent works (in collaboration with his brothers Zack and Jed, and Jed’s fiancee Maurissa Tancharoen). Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog is a 43-minute musical film created exclusively for the Internet (initially). It is No. 15 in TIME’s Best Inventions of 2008. You can watch the entire 3-act piece on the official site; if you are living in the United States, that is. Otherwise, there’s a DVD available with commentaries.  But if you’re resourceful and interested enough, there are other ways. Just saying.    

I already know that Whedon writes good music. The concept of Dr. Horrible is pretty simple. But then again, how many singing supervillains can you name? TIME magazine describes it as “think The Diaries of Lex Luthor as told by Rodgers and Hammerstein.” I’ll say it’s more like Sondheim than R&H, but anyway… Dr. Horrible is an aspiring supervillain who wants to rule the world. He is applying to be a member of the Evil League of Evil. He does video blogging to report his activities and plans, even if he knows the L.A.P.D. and his arch nemesis, Captain Hammer, are watching. And, oh, he’s in love with a girl he met at the laundromat. 

Starring: Neil Patrick Harris (Billy/Dr. Horrible), Nathan Fillion (Captain Hammer), and Felicia Day (Penny).

Who will like it:  Anyone with a taste for the unconventional. Buffy/Angel/Firefly fans. Fans of Neil Patrick Harris.