Monday, August 15, 2022

Kevin VanHook: An Influential Film

 


Like many of you, I enjoyed Valiant's recent Harbinger series. The concept of the Harbingers, which traces its lineage back to the 1990s, is rooted in releasing the untapped powers of the human mind.

Most people have enough trouble coping with the world around them. Throw in vast mental powers, and an inability to block out the thoughts of those around you, and you're asking for trouble.

 


After working for Valiant as a writer and artist, Bloodshot creator Kevin VanHook transitioned into a successful film career. In addition to writing and directing his own films, he's worked on TV shows and movies, often overseeing the visual effects. He's contributed substantially to two of my favorite films: Olympus Has Fallen and I, Robot. 

Recently, Kevin VanHook cited the 1981 film Scanners--in which people struggle to cope with their vast mental powers--as an early influence for his own film career in Hollywood.

 


Although Jim Shooter and David Lapham are officially credited as the creators of Harbinger, Valiant was very much a team back in the 1990s, and many hands worked on each and every book. So naturally, I had to ask Kevin if he felt Scanners was an influence for the creation of Harbinger.

 


Like Kevin VanHook, I saw Scanners during its initial theatrical release. Likewise, I found it unique, powerful, and unforgettable. I wonder: might Scanners have also lingered in the back of Jim Shooter and David Lapham's minds?

Dragon Dave

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