HAPPY 2011 EVERYONE!
Although there's a romantic notion there's no holiday like a white holiday, I'd much rather see all the snow just go away now. It's was great for awhile but the sooner the ice melts and the tempertures get warmer, the better. I'm tired of driving on slippery roads and getting frost bite and coming down with pneumonia. But I digress. Winter is just something you have to put up with when you live in Minnesota. I'll just have to grin and bear it.
We don't have an official update today but rather I thought I'd share with you all something. Recently I've dusted off my old DeviantArt account in hopes of getting back into drawing more often again. If you're familiar with the website, you might know a common theme this time of year is for artists to post a progression graft of the previous year by taking one illustration (or photo) they did and placing it in pre-set template. That's cool for folks who draw a lot but what about those who's output wasn't as much as they hoped for? So with tongue firmly planted in cheek, I present to you all my "2010 Summary of Art".

We'll be back next week and I promise with a real update. - Jake

Howdy friends! It's been a long time since there's been any activity seen around these parts. January actually. And since then, well, some people have grown a bit perturbed. I can't say I blames them any. When you have yourself a website as quaint as this one, folks usually depend on knowing what's going on. Otherwise, well, they fear the worse. And that, my friends, is never a good thing.
I don't know why I'm talking like Sam Elliott other than perhaps it's my feeble attempt at softening the blow of five months of inactivity. Actually that's not entirely true. I have been drawing, and starting today, you're going to see that's not hyperbole or making excuses: it just took me that long to get enough material stocked up.
Last year was suppose to be the final season of the "Plight Summer Blockbuster Gallery". After ten years, Tony and I felt it'd be nice to go out on a high note and move on to other things (like, say, actual comics). But what started out with such high ambitions wound up becoming an epic disaster. Part of the problem was 2010 didn't have too many interesting films to begin with and as a result, we just couldn't come up with any great ideas. The other issue was things in our personal lives were getting in the way more than usual. In our defense we did our best to keep up but in the end the only choice left was throwing in the towel. The grand fourteen entry final bow we had planned turned out to become a seven entry whimper which ended, on all things, with a "Twilight" movie. Not the best way to close off on 123 entries.
In the back of my mind I wondered if we did decide to come back for another go-round, would 2011 treat us any differently? Would we be able to find enough material to work with? And more importantly, would we be able to maintain a weekly schedule if we dared to jump once more in the trenches? It only took a quick glance at the list of upcoming titles to convince me not only was it possible, but the two of us would be pretty damn stupid not to do it. So on March 29th I sat down and started drawing a scene of Erik coming across Mjolnir. And I haven't stopped yet.
That's why I'm exciting to announce today begins the "2011 PLIGHT SUMMER BLOCKBUSTER GALLERY", and equally as important, a long stretch of regular updates for the foreseeable future. And we're not just talking about things relating to movies; oh no. Throughout the summer we'll also be posting long-awaited holiday art (some not even done up by us!), comic pages, guest artists, and more. In short, there won't be any delays because there's no possible way there can be. But enough talk - time to get on with it.
Although the summer movie season technically began last week with "Fast Five", it's become a sort of tradition with the PSBG to kick things off with a Marvel Comics film. And this year is no different with "Thor" starring Chris Hemsworth and directed by Kenneth Branagh. It's also become more of a tradition and less of a 'cease and desist' not to use the actual Marvel characters in our pictures. So how did we fare this time? Click on the link and see for yourself.
Next week we'll be visiting a bleak outland full of vampires as well as debuting an over-delayed Valentine's Day picture by a guest artist. So until then! - Jake

Admit it - you didn't think we'd be back so soon, did you?
I can't blame anyone for being hesitant of the promise I made last week; only hopeful by the end of the summer I can look back and give myself a pat on the back for a job well done. Heck, I might even celebrate by getting drunk. But we'll see; there's still three and a half months and at least 13 more pictures left to go so I can't start singing "Johnny Boy" quite yet.
Speaking of Irish diddys (wonder if I made that drinking joke just to have a great segway?) today's "Summer Blockbuster Gallery" picture is based on "Priest"; Hollywood's latest attempt to start up another successful vampire franchise. The hook this time around is a warrior priest played by Paul Bettany searches for his missing niece in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a war between humans and vampires. What's our take on it? Click on the link and see for yourself. A bit of a warning though: the rambling, although brief, might come off a little preachy (Ha! I made a funny!).
But that's not all. We're also debuting the first of three Valentine's Day pictures we never got around to posting. It's done up by a very talented young guest artist and features a different sort of original character. Of course it also lets the cat out of the bag concerning what my valentine's contribution is going to be about next week, but it's unavoidable. And just wait until you see number 3!
So there you have it. In just seven days we'll be back with another summer movie (Pirates!) and another four-month delayed drawing. So until then, we hope you're having a great start of the summer season. Thanks for coming back! - Jake

When I was growing up, professional wrestling was not only considered real but a legitimate sport. It was big in my household as my father and younger brothers were die-hard fans. Every Saturday morning they'd turn on the television to watch the A.W.A. (American Wrestling Association) and get into passionate arguments on whether the Iron Shrek could beat Verne Gagne or if Sgt. Slaughter was getting a little slow. I watched it too and enjoyed it, but wrestling always seemed like that thing that was meant to be a special interest only between my father and my sibblings. Whenever they'd rough-house and try special moves on each other (like "DA CLAW!"), I was often told I was "too big to play". But that was okay; most of the times their title bouts wound up with one or both of my brothers getting hurt and crying. Besides, I liked wrestling for the characters and their personalities; not for having my arm bend it a direction God didn't meant for it to go.
So it's no wonder when the A.W.A. folded and became the W.W.F. (World Wrestling Federation), I couldn't get enough of it. Here not only were the matches over the top but the wrestlers were beyond outrageous. Andre the Giant, Jimmy 'Super Fly' Snukka, Hulk Hogan, the Road Warriors, Rowdy Roddy Piper... the cast was enormous. Each one had a theme to them that made them stand out. And none stood out more than 'Macho Man' Randy Savage.
It's impossible for me to pick out a single wrestler and label them as my favorite. But if I was to make up a list, the Macho Man would definately be up there. Speaking in a voice that was unmistakenly his own, he'd often preach about the "sheer exuberance of overwelming power and extremely good looks" he'd have both in and outside the ring and break each sentence up with a thunderous "OH YEAHH!". There was no limit to his self-confidence and with Ms. Elizabeth at his side, he was fearless and determined. Maybe that's why everything he said and did seemed so fricking cool. I mean let's face it, only Randy Savage could endorse such a macho product as Slim Jims.
So it came as a surprise and a bit of a heavy heart when I learned he passed away yesterday. And although I'm much older now and realize it wasn't his real personna, there's still the little child in me who refuses to believe in truth. That if there is a heaven above Earth, the Macho Man has finally found a place which can handle his "extreme righteousness and thunderous fury". I think back as those times, when I was a child glued in front of the television, watching him "lay out the pain" and I can't help but smile. I think he made everyone smile because there just wasn't anyone like him.

On to more cheerful news, today we debut our homage to "Pirates of the Carribean: On Stranger Tides"; the fourth installment of the popular Disney franchise. As long time visitors of this site know, we have a long standing tradition of how we cover this particular group of films and this time is no exception. So click on the link and see how the ongoing saga continues. And as I mentioned last week, we're also posting the second of three Valentine's Day pictures that were done this year - this time around being my contribution to the art trade. Did I fare better than Briana? You'll have to be the judge of that. No really, you'll have to form your own opinion.
Next week we'll be back with week 4 of this season's PSBG and the last of the Valentine's Day illustrations (which is fortunately/unfortunately amphibian free). So until then, take it easy! - Jake

It has been quite the week. After several long conversations with the phone company, exchanging the modem I just purchased because Qwest swore it had defective components (turns out it didn't), rebooting my laptop and reinstalling all my software, I finally have internet again. Not only that but dare I say my DSL connection has never performed as well as it does now. Every wireless device I own is able to log in instantly that I'm simply amazed. Granted the morons at Qwest can still bite me, but at least it's nice being able to feel like I'm working with 21st century technology at home for a change.
However there's just one problem remaining before this nightmare can truly be over: I'm still looking for my Photoshop disc.
I know I promised the completed "Super 8" picture would be up today along with my take on "Green Lantern". When I said those words, there was no doubt in my mind I'd be able to honor it. But the disc still hasn't turned up and even though I've spent hours searching for it, it's now 1:32 AM on Saturday. I will find it though. Mark my words I will. There isn't too many more places left to search and as soon as I locate it, I'll be able to convert the picture into a JPEG format and post it. Then I can get started on the "Green Lantern" picture. Sadly it just won't be tonight. But in the event I don't find the disc by next Saturday, I am willing to go out and buy the latest version (which would be a vast improvement over the 7.0 version I work with).
Yeah... can you sense the frustrated determination in my tone?
So while I'm doing that, today we debut another new face on the ever growing list of guest artists. His name is Anthony Yauther and I suspect a lot of Kari fans are going to like what he's done. A word of caution though: it might not be completely safe to view at work so do so at your own peril. And speaking of artists, while it has been posted for months now, one of Steven Sanchez's penciled sketches has undergone the inking and coloring treatment by yours truly. You can view the updated version as well as switch back to the original one by simply clicking on the link.
Okay, time to go to bed and continue the battle tomorrow. But we'll return next week with the "Super 8" homage come hell or high water and possibly the "Green Lantern" as well. So until then, be sure to drop us a line now that I have lightning fast internet and tell us how we're doing. We always appreciate any form of feedback. Later! - Jake

Hey everyone. As you can see there was no update yesterday, and aside from one piece of guest art, there won't be much of an update today either. The reason is I'm having computer troubles.
I was on the phone with my friendly inexperienced Qwest technician trying to install a new modem (I've had my old one for over five years now so it was high time I did) when said technician gave me some information and procedures he must have pulled from out of his ass that caused both of my internet browser programs to get erased. So now not being able to get online at all, said technician (who will only receive fitting justice if he gets to re-inact Ned Beatty's role in "Deliverance") told me that without a working browser, there's no way to set up the modem and thank you for calling Qwest. Unfortunately there was only one way to remedy the problem.
So while I'm searching for my restoration discs and dreading when I'll be completely rebooting my computer, I wanted to fill everyone in on the slight delay. And it is just a slight delay. Once I'm back online I will be posting our PSBG picture for "Super 8" (unfortunately I'm at work right now and the staff intranet machines are without disc drives and USB ports making uploading/downloading impossible). But speaking of "Super 8", if you haven't already gone out and seen it, you should. JJ Abrams has made a exciting modern film that very much harkens back to the classic Steven Spielberg era of "E.T." and "Close Encounters of the Third Kind". The movie is nothing short of wonderful and easily one of the best movies this summer, if not this year. Seriously, even with the high cost of going to the theaters these days, this one is definately worth it.
However we do have something to debut today. Last week before my troubles, I uploaded a second picture done by Michael Hill; this time with his take on Kari Athens. Now if only I had the insight to have upload the PSBG picture as well, none of this would have even been an issue. But I'm glad there is something to debut today rather than just me rambling on about my elctronic problems.
Anyhow, be sure to stop by here again during the week for our next update. Then join us this Saturday when we'll be back on track with our take on the latest DC Comics film, "Green Lantern". Until then, hope you're enjoying the summer; especially you kids who are out of school! - Jake

Although I had been reading comics earlier in my childhood, it wasn't until 1986 when I really began the habit of picking up specific titles and following along with whatever loose continuity thread was woven in them. It seemed I sided more with the Marvel camp than DC because DC Comics was just so fricking confusing. Not only did they have three or four generations of the same hero, but their adventures took place on different parallel earths and dimensions. It also wasn't uncommon for the status quo to alter greatly from month to month when in one issue a hero would lament he's all alone in the universe and then the very next issue host a inter-galactic family reunion. Maybe I stayed away from DC because even at an early age, I knew the creators weren't giving kids enough credit for being intelligent. They figured the more ridiculous and dumb, the better we'd like it.
But then "Crisis of Infinite Earths" was published and my argument was no longer valid.
As soon as the last issue of "Crisis" hit, everything started over from scratch. Superman was now a hero a little more vulnerable and human. Jason Todd, Batman's new Robin, no longer shared the exact same circus performing/parents murdered origin as Dick Grayson but was now a punk kid stealing tires off of the Batmobile. Wonder Woman was now created by her mother when she 'formed' her out of clay. There was a second generation of a "Flash" still, but this one became a hero in honor of his uncle who sacrified himself in the "Crisis". And so on and so on.
From then on I picked up more DC titles than I normally did because now I could follow along. I didn't care about any of the yelling and screaming the "Silver Age" fans did; demanding the versions of the heroes they knew and loved would come back. The stories were more believable and logical, the characters had depth, and individuals like Frank Miller and Alan Moore were bringing a unseen maturity and intelligence to the comic line. It truly was a great time to be a comic fan.
Fast forward to last Wednesday and the bombshell DC dropped on everyone. That in September their entire line was going to be rebooted and every title would begin again on issue #1. Immediately the internet broke out in a frenzy and two camps were formed: those who thought it was high time for a change and those who thought it was the worst idea ever. And all week now I've been reading various articles and hearing people's viewpoints. I've taken in account all sides of the discussion and through it all MY view hasn't changed.
I've already experienced this before and it all turned out just fine.
Sure I'm a little concerned what's going to happen to titles I was anticipating like "Batwoman" or James Robinson's "Shade" maxi. I'm hoping "Action" and "Detective Comics" won't be losing their historic numbering of 900 and 800 respectfully. And although he's an annoying brat, I've liked seeing the character of Damian Wayne as Robin. But those little quibbles pale in comparison to the curiosity I have of this new DC. Maybe with all the head-pounding frustration over the years about Hawkman's 17 different origins or the dozen of Batmen currently patrolling all around the world or the 52 various earths.... maybe it's high time to wipe the slate clean. But like I said, that's just my opinion.

Anyhow, to change the subject and talk about OUR little universe, today we have the next Summer Blockbuster Gallery picture up and running. Our target this time out is "X-Men: First Class", starring Mr. Tumnus, Valentine McCree from "Tremors", and Betty Draper. Considering this is one of the illstrations where the inspiration hit me pretty late, I'm actually satisfied with the end results. But take a gander and see for youself.
Meanwhile over at the guest artist page, we welcome yet another new contributor to the site! Today we show off the first of two sketches done up by Mr. Michael Hall. His work is quite different and I have a feeling a lot of you are going to like it. So click on the link and and we hope you enjoy!
Well, be sure to check back with us in seven days when Tony and I will return with our take on young filmmakers coming across aliens. Plus we'll have yet another new piece of artwork from Michael Hill. So until then, stay clear of world-altering comic book events. You never know how it will affect you. - Jake

Hey everyone! It's taken six weeks but I finally have Photoshop once again on my computer which means we're back! But I'm not going to dwell on the lost time or how I've been feeling like Ralphie Parker from "A Christmas Story" running to his mailbox every day hoping his Little Orphan Annie Secret Decoder Ring arrived. I'm not even going to go into detail that the CS3 program I ordered turned out to be an update disc and not the actual program. No, I'm not going to venture down that path because it may provoke foul language from me and perhaps scare youngsters. The important thing is we're finally back and that's all that counts!
So after a month and a half delay we present our take on "Super 8", arguably one of the best movies to come out this summer. It may be playing in dollar theaters by now, but if you haven't had a chance to catch this yet, we urge you to go before it's too late. This really is one of those types of films that watching it on a big screen only enhances the experience. In the meanwhile click on the link and see our homage to it.
Meanwhile over in "Guest Artists", we have yet another new face adding to the roster of talent. This time around we're fortunate enough to have the artist known as "Z" doing his own interpretation of, who else, Kari. So of course we urge you guys to check it out. Seriously, with all the art we've received this year alone, I can't help but feel absolutely humbled. I know with all the delays and problems I let some people down and for that, I apologize. But whenever we get new pieces of art from viewers and fellow artists, it only makes me want to try harder to succeed. I really can't say 'thank you' enough!
Well, enough talking from me. I have six pictures I need to complete before I'm even caught up so until next week we hope you're having a great summer and we thank you again for your patience. In seven days: "Green Lantern".
*sigh* I really am far behind.... - Jake

To everyone here to all of you out there, we hope you have a wonderful and safe holiday season. We'll see you back here in 7 days when we start 2012 off right (and if the above picture doesn't give you a hint, things are going to be stirring up.) - Jake

Even if the Chairman of the Board was still alive, I doubt Frank Sinatra would have called 2011 a very good year when it came to the Plightsite. Over the course of twelve months there was a whopping total of eight updates. Eight. Two of those didn't even feature artwork from me! Sure, we had our share of bad years but well... this one certainly took the cake. However none of it was anyone's fault when all was said and done.
True, there were no updates since August but it didn't mean I wasn't drawing in one form or another. If I wasn't offering my coloring services to help out some friends, I was sketching little pieces here and there. Over the course of the next few weeks I'll be sharing some of those sketches I drew during my "break" in these ramblings; sketches that ranged from the Fairly Oddparents which you see above to "Game of Thrones", McDonalds, "Creepshow 2", and an obsure Masters of the Universe villain. The second half of last year's Summer Blockbuster Gallery will also be starting up again shortly with "Green Lantern" as well the debut of a 6-page comic entitled "Reverie" which takes place in the Plight universe yet doesn't feature any of the characters.
Perhaps the biggest thing you'll be seeing in the next few months though is change. Change in the frequency of updates, change in the material itself from character designs to 'revisions' of a story I've taken almost two decades to get off my lazy ass to draw. There's even going to be change in the format and look of this very website that I guarantee by the time May comes around everything will be different. Basically nothing is safe. Nothing. So believe it when I said Erik's boxers getting destroyed was just the beginning.
But enough hyperbole - today's update is the first of three "Guest Artists" entries I still have yet to debut. This time around it's a new name to the ever-growing list, "Rantz", whose work has graced the pages of Top Cow Comics and Bluewater to name a few. It was a thrill to see him do up a sketch of Kari and I hope you all like it.
Next time we finally, finally, FINALLY see our take on Ryan Reynold as DC Comic's Emerald Knight. So until then, have a safe and happy new year. See you all in 2012! - Jake