CHARLIE BROWN'S CHRISTMAS TALES -- DVD Review by Porfle

Originally posted on 12/16/10

 

Most fans of Charles Schulz' "Peanuts" no doubt have a special place in their hearts for those animated specials that have been popping up on TV off and on for over forty years.  If it's been awhile since you watched one, you can relive old memories with CHARLIE BROWN'S CHRISTMAS TALES, a good example of the best and worst of the lot. 

First up on this DVD is the title piece from 2002, which is a series of Christmas vignettes loosely linked by the seasonal theme, each showcasing a particular character.  There's no main plot linking them all together, but each mini-story is charming and engaging on its own. 

The episodes play like those "Peanuts" comics that followed a single story thread for several strips, and watching it is like reading an animated version of one of Schulz' paperback compilations.  In fact, I have a feeling these were actually taken right from the comics.  The setups and punchlines come one after another just as though we're paging through one of those comics collections, and they're deftly delivered like a stand-up comedian on a roll.

Our favorite characters get the spotlight in turn, beginning with Snoopy, who's taken up being an accordion-playing street corner Santa.  An example of the classic set-up and punchline style on display here: Lucy and Linus walk by Snoopy-Santa as he squeezes out a tune, there's a pause, and then Lucy remarks, "I don't know, Linus...to me, 'Oh Susanna' just doesn't sound very Christmassy."  (In a nod to past glories, Snoopy then switches to the theme song from "A Charlie Brown Christmas.")

Obsessive-compulsive Linus spends his segment agonizing over how to address Santa in his letter and dealing with his romantic feelings for a mysterious girl in his class who changes her name every day.  Charlie Brown's little sister Sally, one of my favorite characters, is concerned with trying to get her "sweet Baboo" Linus to notice her.  She also must deal with her embarrassment over mistakenly thinking "Santa" Claus is "Samantha" Claus and her quest to obtain a Christmas tree by willing one to fall down rather than having to chop it down.

Lucy resolves to be nicer than ever, which naturally makes her more crabby than before.  We see her wooing the reluctant Schroeder and trying to convince Linus that the Bible dictates he give her a Christmas present.  Charlie Brown, as always, simply reacts to the various indignities and absurdities that are thrust upon him daily.

Vince Guaraldi's irresistible and instantly-recognizable music is nicely arranged and performed by David Benoit, and the voice work is good.  "Charlie Brown's Christmas Tales" is a briskly-paced series of brightly funny gags that are smartly drawn and animated, breathing new life into these long-running characters.

The second feature on the disc, "Is This Goodbye, Charlie Brown?", came out around the tail end of the vintage Charlie Brown specials and isn't nearly as memorable as the earlier ones.  It seems as though writer Charles Schulz' heart wasn't really in this one, which had the potential to be one of the series most heartfelt stories.

This time Linus and Lucy are moving away due to their father's job relocation, and Charlie Brown faces the loss of his two best friends.  Such an event is important in a kid's life, and we expect something more substantial than this episodic, disjointed narrative.  With Linus and Lucy gone, the story veers into a lengthy and rather unspecial subplot about Peppermint Pattie's dogged attempts to get Charlie Brown to ask her for a date.  An abrupt wrap-up follows this uninteresting detour from the main story, which isn't developed very well at all.

Besides an awful musical score (not by Vince Guaraldi), subpar vocal talent, and some iffy character design, "Goodbye" commits a cardinal sin--showing adult characters onscreen.  Watching this when it first aired back in 1983, I remember thinking how jarring it was when the moving men were shown loading the Van Pelts' belongings into a van.  "Peanuts" has always been a kids-only world, where the closest thing to a grownup was the comically distorted "voice" of Charlie Brown's nagging teacher.  So, to casually introduce some anonymous adult characters from out of the blue is, to me, a bothersome misstep.


The Warner Brothers DVD is in standard TV format and Dolby Digital sound with English and French subtitles.  Also included are trailers for other Peanuts DVDs. 

Now that I think of it, the disappointing "Is This Goodbye, Charlie Brown?" is probably the reason I finally quit watching these "Peanuts" specials altogether.  So it's nice to see that, with "Charlie Brown's Christmas Tales", the old magic was restored.  Of course, all of this nitpicking comes from the point of view of a grownup, and, despite my comically distorted gripes, kids will probably manage to enjoy both of these stories just fine.

CHARLIE BROWN'S CHRISTMAS TALES -- DVD Review by Porfle

PEANUTS: EMMY® HONORED COLLECTION -- DVD Review by Porfle

 

Originally posted on 9/12/15

 

If you still wax nostalgic over those wonderful old prime-time "Peanuts" specials, you may want to check out the 2-disc DVD set from Warner Home Entertainment, PEANUTS: EMMY® HONORED COLLECTION, which contains eleven half-hour cartoons from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. 

All are Emmy nominees (two are winners), and each one features that familiar crude drawing style and limited animation that have somehow always been ideal for bringing Charles Schulz's "Peanuts" comic strip to life. 

These later cartoons, however, tend to lack that sweet, indefinable magic that the earlier classics such as "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (1965) and "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" (1966) had in such abundance.  Most also lack the delightful cool jazz music by Vince Guaraldi that most people know by heart.

The plots (all written by Schulz) tend to meander somewhat and are often rather sitcom-like compared to the richness of the earlier stories and characterizations.  The best ones stick close to home and explore familiar situations that both kids and adults can identify with.

Taken on their own, these cartoons all get at least an A for effort and are more easygoing, good-natured, and positive than most of the stuff being made for children today. And at their best, they manage to achieve moments that are genuinely moving and even profound.

In "You're the Greatest, Charlie Brown", Charlie Brown enters the Junior Olympics but is stuck competing in the most difficult event--the Decathlon--with the whole school depending on him to win.  With the help of trainer Peppermint Patty and her assistant Marcie, plus Snoopy as surprise contestant The Masked Marvel, Charlie's dogged effort to exceed expectations is matched only by Schulz's earnest attempts to wring laughs out of the situation.

Yet another sports-competition story, "She's a Good Skate, Charlie Brown" boasts some lovely moments with Peppermint Patty gliding around on the ice (actual skaters' movements were studied by the animators) although plotwise not much happens. 

"It's Magic, Charlie Brown" finds Charlie Brown insisting that Snoopy go to the library and check out some books to read. One of them is a book on magic, and before you know it Snoopy is putting on his own magic show as The Great Houndini.  During the show he makes Charlie Brown disappear but forgets how to bring him back. 

"Someday You’ll Find Her, Charlie Brown" is one of those unrequited love tales with Charlie Brown falling for a little girl he sees during a football game on TV.  Enlisting Linus' help he tracks her down but is shocked when she and Linus are instantly smitten with each other. 

"Is This Goodbye, Charlie Brown?" is the only one of these that I remember seeing first-run, and it's the first time I noticed the animators beginning to show random adults interacting with the kids, which just doesn't work. (Before, adults were represented only by the off-screen bleating of brass instruments.)  The story of Charlie Brown's best friends Linus and Lucy moving away has much potential that isn't really explored--a plot detour in which Peppermint Patty tries to get romantic with "Chuck" in her own clumsy way takes up much of the running time after the departure of the Van Pelts.

Snoopy joins the circus in "Life is a Circus, Charlie Brown", a largely forgettable entry.  Next, however, is the remarkable "What Have We Learned, Charlie Brown?" which finds the gang as exchange students in France.  After the usual comical misadventures they suddenly find themselves on Omaha Beach.  With a somber Linus gravely recounting the story of the D-Day invasion, this tribute to WWII veterans manages to achieve a profundity that I found both surprising and deeply moving.  Score a big A+ for Schulz and company for this one, although strangely enough it isn't one of the Emmy winners.

Finally, an episode that gets back to basics with the kids in their familiar habitats (home, school, neighborhood, etc.) with "It's Flashbeagle, Charlie Brown."  It's sorta plotless, and is basically a series of music videos each celebrating a particular character in song-and-dance style, but it's fun.  I especially enjoyed "The Pigpen Hoedown."

"Snoopy's Getting Married, Charlie Brown" is the one I enjoyed the least, partly because the story of Charlie Brown and his friends throwing an elaborate wedding for Snoopy and a poodle in his backyard is pretty dumb, and partly because guest-star Spike, Snoopy's scraggly desert-rat brother, is one of my least favorite Peanuts characters.  I found this one a chore to endure.

"Why, Charlie Brown, Why?" is another one that mixes random silliness with a solemn subject, this time with Linus' friend Janice being diagnosed with leukemia.  A couple of scenes showing her dealing with the disease and Linus' reactions to it are truly touching.  "You're a Good Sport, Charlie Brown" wraps up the set with Charlie Brown and Peppermint Patty entering a motocross contest. 

The 2-disc set from Warner Home Entertainment is in the original standard format with Dolby 5.1 sound and subtitles in various languages.  There are no bonus features.

After the first few initial "Peanuts" cartoons which appealed to both kids and adults, they gradually started being aimed chiefly toward younger viewers with plots that included more fanciful elements.  As such, kids should get a kick out of PEANUTS: EMMY® HONORED COLLECTION, especially the cartoons in the set which focus on everyday problems and situations that they can relate to. 
 
Buy it at the WBShop.com
Street date: Sept. 15, 2015

PEANUTS: EMMY® HONORED COLLECTION -- DVD Review by Porfle

The Greatest Scene In Any Superman Movie: Rescuing Lois, "SUPERMAN" (1978) (video)

Clark Kent (Christopher Reeve) has moved from Smallville to Metropolis...

...and gotten a job as a reporter for The Daily Planet.

But he has yet to introduce himself to the world as Superman...
...until Lois Lane (Margot Kidder), on her way to cover a big story...
...finds herself in dire need of a super-rescue.

The result is a thrilling sequence which hits on all cylinders...
...charged with suspense, emotion, and even humor....

...and is quite likely the high point of any "Superman" movie ever made.

I neither own nor claim any rights to this material.  Just having some fun with it.  Thanks for watching!

The Greatest Scene In Any Superman Movie: Rescuing Lois, "SUPERMAN" (1978) (video)

BEHIND THE MASK -- THE BATMAN: DEAD END STORY -- DVD Review by Porfle

Originally posted on 7/8/17

 

Focusing not just on the title subject but on the entire life thus far of its uber-geek creator Sandy Collora, BEHIND THE MASK -- THE BATMAN: DEAD END STORY (Candy Factory Films, 2015) is the sort of documentary that offers fanboys both interesting information and a sort of vicarious wish-fulfillment fantasy.

I myself certainly would like to have lived Collora's life, or at least certain aspects of it. Turning on to comics at a very early age, and then movies with the release of such films as STAR WARS, Sandy Collora followed his dream into a job at Stan Winston's studio and, later, work on such films as JURASSIC PARK and MEN IN BLACK. 

As the brashly forthcoming Collora admits, his ego often worked against him even as it acted as a driving force in his ambitions.  He comes off, to me anyway, as an interesting and likable guy with a strong personality.

And he's incredibly creative, as the documentary never fails to demonstrate with plenty of visuals to augment the talking-head stuff.  The entire film, for that matter, is an easy watch--clean but unobtrusive graphics, well-presented interview and clip segments, and lots of interesting comments from genre notables such as Neal Adams as well as friends, coworkers, and family members (Collora's mother died tragically of cancer during the making of the Batman film).

Collora himself is an easygoing interview subject, coming to life when talking of Batman comics, genre films, or his favorite director, James Cameron.  He waxes excitedly about past and present film projects, modest productions over which he retains maximum creative control--a control for which he has sacrificed jobs on much higher prestige pictures. 

But what most viewers will be interested in, including myself, is that 2003 indy "Batman" short that Sandy Collora decided to put together one day in order to both show his stuff to Hollywood and to pay homage to his favorite incarnation (the Neal Adams period) of his favorite comics character.

Collora's drive and attention to detail are fascinating, as is his imagination in concocting one of the best Batman films ever made, one which captures the flavor of Frank Miller's "The Dark Knight Returns", "Batman: Year One", "Batman: The Animated Adventures", the Neal Adams comics (which reinstated Batman's serious side after the frivolity of the 60s TV series), and several other influences.

The short itself is a dark, rainy, and wonderfully gritty tale in which a beefy Batman encounters the Joker (the late Andrew Koenig in a stunningly good portrayal) in an alley shortly after his escape from Arkham Asylum.  But that's just the beginning, because the Caped Crusader soon tangles with Aliens (yes, those Aliens) and Predators in a mash-up that had packed comics convention audiences on their feet in furious applause.  

Clark Bartram's Batman is a solid take on the character, eschewing body armor for an old-fashioned Batsuit that he fills out well, and a surly attitude that bodes ill for wrongdoers.  (Collora initially interested Sylvester Stallone in the role and does a great impression of him.)  Technically, the film is exquisite and captures the spirit of the classic comics while often being dazzlingly cinematic.
 

While the story of this celebrated film serves as the main course, BEHIND THE MASK -- THE BATMAN: DEAD END STORY helps us better appreciate it by giving us a full perspective on the creator's life before and since, in about as compelling a manner as such a documentary can manage.  All that's missing is the eight-minute Batman film itself, which, although it's available to view online, seems a curious omission. 


PROGRAM INFORMATION
 
Type: DVD//Digital HD (iTunes, Amazon, Google Play) 
Running Time: 99 mins.
Rating:  N/A
Genre: Documentary
Aspect Ratio: 2.35:1
Audio: Stereo

Street Date: July 18, 2017

Buy it at Amazon.com

Read our original coverage

Watch the Trailer:

BEHIND THE MASK -- THE BATMAN: DEAD END STORY -- DVD Review by Porfle

Porfle's Trivia Quiz: "BATMAN THE MOVIE" (1966) (video)

Before Tim Burton and Christopher Nolan made him a Dark Knight...

...Adam West's Batman was Gotham City's Caped Crusader.

Fighting crime with the help of his youthful ward, Robin...

...his 1966 film was a huge hit with Bat-fans everywhere.

But how much do you remember about it?

(Read our review of BATMAN: THE MOVIE)



Question: Who played Catwoman in the movie?

A. Julie Newmar
B. Eartha Kitt
C. Lee Meriwether
D. Barbara Feldon
E. Diana Rigg

Question: Bruce Wayne always slides down the ____ Batpole.

A. Left
B. Right


Question: Batman repels the shark with...what?

A. Anti-Shark Bat Blaster
B. Shark Repellant Bat Spray
C. His Batarang
D. Super-Sonic Bat Horn
E. Shark Tested Bat Net

Question: The villains plan to kill Batman with Penguin's...what?

A. Exploding Octopus
B. Electrical Eel
C. Acid Umbrella
D. Super Smoke Bomb
E. Shooting Gallery

Question: Batman exclaims "Some days you just can't..." What?

A. Handle an explosive situation
B. Defuse a problem
C. Save the world from itself
D. Avoid a big blow-up
E. Get rid of a bomb

Question: Who pushes Robin into the water during the final fight?

A. Joker
B. Riddler
C. Catwoman
D. Penguin
E. Bookworm

I neither own nor claim any rights to this material.  Just having some fun with it.  Thanks for watching!

Porfle's Trivia Quiz: "BATMAN THE MOVIE" (1966) (video)

Extreme Comedy Reactions #1: "Archie's Funhouse" Ep.22 (video)

 

In this brief clip from 60s cartoon "Archie's Funhouse"... 

...Archie says something dumb to his dad, and, instead of merely reacting, his dad literally levitates out of his chair.

 

Video by Porfle Popnecker. I neither own nor claim any rights to this material. Just having some fun with it. Thanks for watching!

 

Extreme Comedy Reactions #1: "Archie's Funhouse" Ep.22 (video)

THE DARK KNIGHT -- DVD Review by Porfle

(First posted Dec. 17, 2008)

How dark should a "Batman" movie be? Some fans despise the Frank Miller-influenced take on the character that's become popular in recent years, especially after Tim Burton exorcised all of that jolly Adam West campiness once and for all back in '89. Others, like me, loved the Michael Keaton version of the caped crusader and were even happier to see director Christopher Nolan's BATMAN BEGINS take the subject to still greater heights of realism. Now, with Nolan's 2008 sequel THE DARK KNIGHT, Batman gets his darkest and most adult screen adventure yet, and--unless you prefer your Batman scurrying around on giant pennies with Robin and Bat-Mite--it's a complex and magnificent achievement.

The story opens with a Gotham City beseiged by a hornet's nest of gangland criminals stirred up by the Batman's tireless efforts to thwart their underworld enterprises. Desperate to stop him, they turn to the only person who seems crazy enough to take him on--The Joker, a mysterious, seemingly fearless psycho in clown makeup who lives to create as much chaos as possible. He also aims to prove that anyone is corruptible by taking on Gotham's dauntless new D.A., Harvey Dent, who rivals Batman as a crusader against crime. To do this, Joker plans to murder Dent's one true love, assistant D.A. Rachel Dawes, and place the blame on Batman and newly-appointed police commissioner James Gordon, thus twisting Dent himself into a vengeful agent of terror.

There's a lot of story packed into this film's 152-minute running time, perhaps even too much--it took me two or three viewings to get everything straight and fully appreciate all the twists and turns--but it's riveting. More than just a superhero flick, THE DARK KNIGHT is a top-notch crime drama that takes itself seriously in every respect, while also fully exploring the dimensions of each character. Mix all that with a series of breathtaking action sequences featuring Batman in some of his most dazzlingly audacious exploits ever, and the effect is nothing less than exhilarating.

The best thing about the action scenes in this movie is how much of it is done without CGI, using good old-fashioned stuntwork and practical effects instead of digital cartoon figures slugging it out. This is especially true of the film's central setpiece, in which Harvey Dent is being transferred to the county lock-up after publicly confessing that he is Batman. It's all a ruse, of course, to draw the Joker into the open, and it results in a no-holds-barred chase scene involving police and SWAT vans, a tractor-trailer rig, a garbage truck, and the Batmobile. At one point, Batman emerges from the wreckage of the Batmobile riding his new Batcycle (officially it's called the "Batpod", but I like Batcycle better), which you gotta see to believe. The Joker takes one look at this contraption careening out of an alleyway and remarks appreciatively, "Now THERE'S a Batman."

It's this admiration and respect for Batman that helps make the Joker character interesting. Heath Ledger doesn't act stereotypically evil as much as gleefully, insanely prankish, almost childlike at times, as though the Joker simply gets a thrill from messing things up and causing trouble, and rather than try to kill Batman, he finds him a delightfully fun playmate with whom to engage in deadly games. With little regard for self-preservation and a pronounced suicidal streak ("HIT ME!" he shrieks as the Batpod bears down upon him), he hurls himself into each harrowing situation with utter abandon. But he's incredibly dangerous, too, as evidenced by his explosive escape from police custody and his lethal dealings with Gotham's mob underworld.

Ledger's Oscar-worthy performance is amazing from start to finish, consistently fascinating and endlessly surprising. Some have said that the script gives him too many speeches explaining his behavior, as in his "I'm an agent of chaos" scene with a bedridden Harvey Dent, but I could listen to him all day. He's just plain fun to watch. People have mentioned detecting elements of Richard Dreyfuss or Jack Lemmon in his portrayal, while I thought I heard a little of Al Franken's "Stuart Smalley" in there as well. He's got that insane laugh down pat, too, but it isn't an affectation--he really comes off as a total loon.

The rest of the cast is awesome as well. There's Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, and Gary Oldman from the first film (that's a kickass lineup right there), with the addition of Aaron Eckhart (THE CORE) as Harvey Dent, who later morphs into the hideous Two-Face. Maggie Gyllenhaal takes over the role of Rachel Dawes and is effective in a non-glamorous, down-to-earth way. Cillian Murphy makes a brief return as the Scarecrow early on, and Anthony Michael Hall appears as Gotham's leading television newsman. A really pleasant surprise for me was the appearance of one of my all-time favorite actors, Eric Roberts, as the head of Gotham's criminal element, and it's great to see him in a high-profile role such as this. Likewise, I enjoyed seeing Tommy "Tiny" Lister, who appeared with Roberts in the classic RUNAWAY TRAIN, in a brief but pivotal role, as well as Melinda McGraw as Gordon's wife Barbara and William Fictner as a shotgun-wielding bank manager during the film's exciting opening sequence.

As you might expect, the movie looks and sounds great on DVD. The standard two-disc edition is a little light on extras, though. There are two brief featurettes, one covering the creation of the new Batsuit and Batpod, the other describing Hans Zimmer's musical themes for the Joker. Six sequences from the movie are presented in their IMAX aspect ratios. My favorite is the six-episode series of segments from a fictional news show, "Gotham Tonight", with Anthony Michael Hall's character interviewing various Gotham notables. Rounding out the selection are production stills, poster art, trailers, and a digital copy of the film.

In addition to these, the Blu-Ray edition includes the following:
Movie with Focus Points (picture in picture)
Batman Tech: The incredible gadgets and tools (in HD)
Batman Unmasked: The Psychology of The Dark Knight--Delve into the psyche of Bruce Wayne and the world of Batman through real-world psychotherapy (in HD)
Galleries: The Joker cards, concept art, poster art, production stills, trailers and TV spots.

THE DARK KNIGHT ends on a suitably dark note with the Batman on the run from the law, now a suspect in several murders and a pariah in Gotham City. Is this the traditionally downbeat middle chapter of a trilogy? In any case, the untimely death of Heath Ledger makes it a memorably unique cinematic experience that, regrettably, can never be reprised. But with just about everyone else on board for the following sequel--and not a trace of giant pennies or Robin in sight--I can't wait to see what Christopher Nolan has in store for us next.

THE DARK KNIGHT -- DVD Review by Porfle

FUTURE SHOCK! THE STORY OF 2000AD -- Blu-ray Review by Porfle

Originally posted on 5/24/17

 

The thing about "talking heads" documentaries is that you really have to be interested in the subject for it to work.  Although I'm a lifelong fan of older comics (the Bronze Age is pretty much my cut-off point), I never saw an issue of "2000AD" and so must depend on a compelling story and presentation for the documentary FUTURE SHOCK! THE STORY OF 2000AD (Severin Films, 2014) to be of any interest to me. 

Unfortunately, I found it to be bland at best.  One talking head after another take turns expounding on various aspects of the comic's history ranging from drawing and writing concerns, which I found somewhat diverting, to business and technical stuff that tends to veer into snooze territory.

These interview segments are augmented, rather sparsely, by snatches of artwork from the comic itself as well as clips of various movie projects inspired by it.  While this may suffice for viewers who are longtime "2000AD" readers, others will likely find themselves wishing for a more dynamic presentation. 

The comic itself, we learn, is a weekly sci-fi anthology created in the late 70s and featuring groundbreaking artwork and stories that challenge the social and political norms of its British audience with such characters as Judge Dredd, Rogue Trooper, Strontium Dog, Halo Jones, and the ABC Warriors.  Management and staff have changed over the years amidst much internal strife which we hear about at length, mainly from outspoken co-creator Pat Mills. 

Mills, in fact, is the film's key figure and whether you find him fascinating or insufferable will be a major factor in your reaction to FUTURE SHOCK!  He is, if anything, passionate about his baby--to hear him and his colleagues tell it, "2000AD" was the genesis of almost every major fad and/or movement in both sci-fi comics and films from the 70s onward. 

To an extent this is hardly deniable, as we're shown how the comic's main character, Judge Dredd, was a virtual blueprint for ROBOCOP, and the way Richard Stanley's cult classic HARDWARE seems to have "borrowed" much of its plot from one of their stories. 

 

Mills waxes especially resentful when recounting how the comic eventually became a jumping off point for British artists and writers hoping to get on at the big American companies such as DC and Marvel. And some of the talent we hear from definitely regard this as a dream come true, even though some claim eventual disenchantment. 

This leads to the usual chest-swelling by Mills and others about British superiority in comics, movies, and pretty much everything else, which I found off-putting--these guys don't realize how full of themselves they sound when complaining about how full of themselves Americans can be.

Also a bit heavy-handed are the nods toward social justice, of which they fancy themselves anti-establishment crusaders, and the inevitable charges by aspiring female comics artists that "2000AD" is a "boys' club." Which, quite understandably, it is.

The documentary picks up some steam in the second half when we learn about a new "Judge Dredd" movie with Karl Urban which seems poised to wipe away the memory of the earlier Sylvester Stallone travesty. 

Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman, Grant Morrison, Brian Bolland and Mike McMahon are among those chiming in during interview segments, as well as members of such heavy metal bands as Anthrax who have been influenced by the comic over the years. 

The Blu-ray from Severin Films is in 1080p full HD resolution with English 2.0 sound and subtitles.  Bonus features consist of:

EXTENDED SEQUENCES--
2000AD vs the USA
Dredd 2012 – True In Spirit
Judge Dredd Extended sequence
Cheap Entertainment – The appeal of comics

BEHIND THE STRIPS--
Bad Company – Peter Milligan
Future Shocks
Rogue Trooper – Dave Gibbons & Cam Kennedy
Slaine – Pat Mills
Strontium Dog – Carlos Ezquerra

PRODUCTION EXTRAS--
Art Blast – Jock & Henry Flint
Blooper Reel
Pat Mills Visits Kings Reach Tower
Soundtrack – Behind the Scenes
Festival Teaser Trailer
UK Release Trailer

EXTENDED INTERVIEWS--
Grant Morrison
Karen Berger
Pat Mills
Neil Gaiman
Dave Gibbons

Without the bonus supplements, we learn surprisingly little about what actually makes "2000AD" such a great comic save for passing glimpses of artwork and dialogue, and much about the behind-the-scenes business and personal conflicts.  This will be of interest to the comic's most ardent fans, but for me, watching FUTURE SHOCK! THE STORY OF 2000AD was a little like attending a lecture that I knew I'd be graded on later. 


 
Buy it at Severin Films

Release date: May 30, 2017

FUTURE SHOCK! THE STORY OF 2000AD -- Blu-ray Review by Porfle

Get In On The Action With This Week's #BingeWatchWednesdays Guide!

Looking to go on a mission filled with adrenaline, sacrifice and the ultimate challenges? 

Well search no further as we have the perfect “action-animated” themed list to fulfill your needs, and take you on the adventures that you have been longing for!
 

Be the champion of the internet and share this week’s binge-watching guide on your sites and socials today from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment. All titles are available to own at major digital retailers today; including iTunes, Amazon Prime, VUDU and GooglePlay!

#BingeWatchWednesdays


TOP PICK OF THE WEEK

Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge (R)
Based on the worldwide hit game created by Ed Boon & John Tobias, Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge spotlights the once-in-a-generation tournament between the champions of Outworld and Earthrealm – a competition that will ultimately determine the fate of Earth and all its citizens. Lord Raiden, protector of Earthrealm, must gather the greatest fighters of his realm to defend it from the evil Shang Tsung in the battle to end all battles - Mortal Kombat!

Joel McHale (Community, The CW’s upcoming Stargirl) and Jennifer Carpenter (Dexter, Batman: Gotham by Gaslight) lead a stellar cast as the voices of Hollywood star-turned-fighter Johnny Cage and all-business warrior Sonya Blade, respectively. The voice cast also includes Jordan Rodrigues (Lady Bird, The Fosters) as Liu Kang, Patrick Seitz (Mortal Kombat X, Agrretsuko, Naruto: Shippuden) as Scorpion & Hanzo Hasashi, Steve Blum (Cowboy Bebop, Star Wars Rebels) as Sub-Zero, Artt Butler (Her, Star Wars: The Clone Wars) as Shang Tsung, Darin De Paul (Overwatch, Fortnite) as Quan Chi, Robin Atkin Downes (The Strain, Batman: The Killing Joke) as Kano, David B. Mitchell (Mortal Kombat 11, World of Warcraft franchise) as Raiden, Ike Amadi (Mass Effect 3, Mortal Kombat 11) as Jax Briggs, Kevin Michael Richardson (Family Guy, The Simpsons) as Goro, Grey Griffin (The Loud House, Young Justice, Scooby-Doo franchise) as Kitana & Satoshi Hasashi, and Fred Tatasciore (Robot Chicken, Family Guy) as Demon Torturer.

Available on Digital now and coming to 4K Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD on April 28, Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge is directed by Ethan Spaulding (Batman: Assault on Arkham, Justice League: Throne of Atlantis) from a script by Jeremy Adams (Supernatural, Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans) based on the videogame created by Ed Boon and John Tobias. Rick Morales (Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders, Batman vs. Two-Face) is Producer, and Jim Krieg (Batman: Gotham by Gaslight) is co-producer. Executive Producer is Sam Register. Ed Boon (NetherRealm Studios) is Creative Consultant.

In efforts to provide you even more entertainment – we have an exclusive clip from Mortal Kombat Legends: Scorpion’s Revenge that you can click on above! Will Jack get past the champion? Find out when you own the Digital today, and the Blu-ray Combo Pack next week!



MORE TITLES TO CONSIDER

Justice League Dark (R)
When innocent civilians begin committing unthinkable crimes across Metropolis, Gotham City and beyond, Batman must call upon mystical counterparts to eradicate this demonic threat to the planet. Enter Justice League Dark, reluctantly led by the Hellblazer himself, John Constantine. Like Batman, Constantine is a cunning, often cynical loner who is the best at his chosen profession – but quickly realizes the sinister forces plaguing the planet will require help from other supernatural alliances. Forming a new “league” with sorceress Zatanna, otherworldly Deadman, and Jason Blood and his powerful alter ego Etrigan the Demon, this team of Dark Arts specialists must unravel the mystery of Earth’s supernatural plague and contend with the rising, powerful villainous forces behind the siege – before it’s too late for all of mankind.

Teen Titans: The Judas Contract (PG-13)
Led by Starfire, the Teen Titans – Beast Boy, Raven, Blue Beetle, Robin and the just-returned Nightwing – have built a cohesive team in their never-ending battle against evil; but their newest teammate, the mysterious and powerful Terra, may be altering that dynamic. Meanwhile, an ancient evil, Brother Blood, has awakened, and familiar foe Deathstroke is lurking in the shadows – both waiting to pounce. Ultimately, the Teen Titans will need to battle their enemies and their own doubts to unite and overcome the malicious forces around them in this twisting tale of intrigue, adventure and deception.

Suicide Squad: Hell To Pay (R)
Suicide Squad: Hell to Pay finds Amanda Waller’s top secret “Task Force X” – Deadshot, Bronze Tiger, Killer Frost, Captain Boomerang, Harley Quinn and Copperhead – on a mission to retrieve a mystical object so powerful that they’re willing to risk their own lives to steal it. But the Suicide Squad isn’t the only group of villains seeking to possess the object. The race is on for the golden prize … and, to stay alive, second place isn’t an option.

Batman: Hush (PG-13)
An adaptation of the seminal DC classic tale, Batman: Hush centers on a shadowy new villain known only as Hush, who uses Gotham’s Rogues Gallery to destroy Batman’s crime-fighting career, as well as Bruce Wayne’s personal life – which has already been complicated by a relationship with Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman.

Batman: The Killing Joke (R)
Based on DC’s two-time Eisner Award winning graphic novel of the same name, Batman: The Killing Joke takes a journey into the dark psyche of the Clown Prince of Crime – from his humble beginnings as a struggling comedian to his fateful encounter with Batman that changes both of their lives forever. Years later, and now escaped from Arkham Asylum, The Joker devises a plan to prove that one bad day can make anyone as insane as he is – setting his sights on Commissioner Gordon. It’s up to the Dark Knight to put a stop to The Joker’s latest scheme and save one of Gotham City’s finest. Following a gripping prologue introducing Barbara Gordon’s heroic adventures alongside Batman as Batgirl, Batman: The Killing Joke stays true to the authentic tale that has held fans’ imaginations for nearly three decades – spotlighting the birth of a Super-Villain, the fortitude of a Super Hero and the punchline that will leave you speechless.

Batman: Gotham By Gaslight (R)
Inspired by the landmark one-shot Elseworlds tale by Brian Augustyn and Mike Mignola, Batman: Gotham By Gaslight takes place at the turn of the century as America’s continued industrial revolution is to be showcased at a World’s Fair hosted by Gotham City. But while the world prepares to witness the glittery glory of Gotham’s technological advances, there is a killer loose in the city’s darkest shadows. Preying on the city’s women, this killer is as precise as he is cruel. As Police Commissioner James Gordon tries to calm the fears of Gotham’s citizens regarding the butcher called Jack the Ripper, the masked vigilante Batman enacts his own detective work – with the help of confident, capable Selina Kyle – to stop the Ripper’s murderous spree. Witness a world in flames as the notorious serial killer’s controlled savagery meets the calculated stealth of the Dark Knight.

Batman: Under the Red Hood (PG-13)
In Batman: Under the Red Hood, Batman faces his ultimate challenge as the mysterious Red Hood takes Gotham City by firestorm. One part vigilante, one part criminal kingpin, Red Hood begins cleaning up Gotham with the efficiency of Batman, but without following the same ethical code. Killing is an option. And when The Joker falls in the balance between the two, hard truths are revealed and old wounds are reopened.

Batman: Assault on Arkham (PG-13)
Gotham is in great danger when the government assembles a group of villains — code named the Suicide Squad — and forces them to break into Arkham Asylum to retrieve top secret information stolen by the Riddler. Things take a turn for the worse when one of the Squad members (Harley Quinn) frees the Joker, who is intent on blowing up Arkham Asylum and Gotham City. Batman must use his super hero wits and strength to thwart the wicked plans of the Joker and the Suicide Squad.

Justice League: Gods and Monsters (PG-13)
Witness a divergent reality where the Justice League protects the planet – but answers to no one but themselves. Employing methods of intimidation and fear, this Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman deal brute force in the name of justice. From the creative genius of executive producer Bruce Timm and co-producer Alan Burnett comes an original story where the world’s greatest triumvirate of super heroes has distinctly different origins. Superman was not raised by the Kents in Smallville, the Caped Crusader is not Bruce Wayne, and Wonder Woman is not an Amazon warrior of Themyscira. They are as likely the world’s saviors as Earth’s despotic rulers. When a group of famed scientists experience untimely “accidents,” a government task force follows the trail of clues to the Justice League – but is there a more powerful player operating from the shadows? It’s a high stakes game of intrigue, mystery and action that asks the question: How do you serve justice to those above the law?

All photos are courtesy of Warner Bros. Home Entertainment

Get In On The Action With This Week's #BingeWatchWednesdays Guide!

FAN EXPO Dallas Announces John Cleese Will Join Biggest Comic Event of the Year

FAN EXPO Dallas Announces John Cleese Will Join Biggest Comic Event of the Year


DALLAS, TX— FAN EXPO DALLAS – the largest comic, sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming event in Texas has announced the addition of John Cleese to the growing celebrity line-up for March 27-29, 2020 event at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center Dallas.

Cleese is famous for being a founding member of the famed Monty Python comedy troupe, the ensemble responsible for the surreal and groundbreaking sketch comedy series “Monty Python’s Flying Circus.” The group followed up on the show’s success with films such as “Monty Python’s Life of Brian” and “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”

Cleese is also known for roles in series such as “Fawlty Towers,” and for films like “A Fish Called Wanda” and “Fierce Creatures” (he wrote the screenplay for both movies), “Time Bandits,” “Silverado,” and appearances in famed British franchises as James Bond and Harry Potter. Cleese is the recipient of the coveted Ernie Kovacs Award by Dallas VideoFest on December 4, 2019.

In addition to John Cleese, a ticket to the most epic weekend of the year will allow fans the chance to meet more of the most iconic names in entertainment and pop culture.

In a previous announcement, fans were invited to join the Fellowship of the Ring at FAN EXPO Dallas to celebrate the exclusive reunion of the Four Hobbits featuring Frodo, Samwise, Merry and Pippin with stars Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd.

Other highlights throughout the event include celebrity Q&As that give fans the opportunity to spend some time getting to know their favorite celebrities — these will be scheduled throughout the weekend along with throwback Q&A’s and other specially ticketed events. More attractions and celebrity guests will be announced at the beginning of the year.

Tickets are on sale now, early bird pricing is available until January 15, 2020. For the first time, FAN EXPO Dallas is introducing a new ‘fan focused’ ticket policy for the 2020 shows allowing admission ticket refunds. For hours and information visit, www.fanexpodallas.com.

FAN EXPO HQ is one of the largest entertainment convention groups in in the world. Collectively, it hosts more than 500,000 fans annually at FAN EXPO Boston, FAN EXPO Canada, FAN EXPO Dallas, FAN EXPO Vancouver, MEGACON Orlando, Toronto Comicon, Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo and Dallas Fan Days.

FAN EXPO Dallas Announces John Cleese Will Join Biggest Comic Event of the Year

The Best Of Otis! ("Superman", 1978) (video)

One of the highlights of 1978's "Superman"...

...is the performance of Ned Beatty...

...as Lex Luthor's bumbling henchman, Otis.

Who can forget "Otisburg"?


I neither own nor claim any rights to this material.  Just having some fun with it. Thanks for watching!

The Best Of Otis! ("Superman", 1978) (video)

Marvel Studios Celebrates In-Home Release of "AVENGERS: ENDGAME" With the "We Love You 3000" Tour

MARVEL STUDIOS CELEBRATES THE IN-HOME RELEASE OF “AVENGERS: ENDGAME” WITH THE

“WE LOVE YOU 3000” TOUR

Nine cities and 3,000 giveaways to thank fans who’ve invested 11 years in the MCU!


In celebration of the in-home release of “Avengers: Endgame,” Marvel Studios and directors Anthony and Joe Russo have teamed up to launch the “We Love You 3000” Tour as a way to thank the fans who have invested so deeply in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), making it the single most successful franchise in film history.

Special guests from Marvel Studios and the MCU will visit nine U.S. cities — beginning in San Diego at Comic-Con International on July 20 and ending in Anaheim at D23 Expo 2019 the weekend of Aug. 23-25— greeting and treating fans at each tour stop.  A total of 3,000 MCU Funko Pop Vinyl Figures will be distributed to fans throughout the tour as well as additional giveaways ranging from exclusive “Avengers: Endgame” prints to McDonald’s vouchers for a free Happy Meal® plus an Avengers: Endgame Happy Meal toy to a MCU inspired sundaes and recipe cards courtesy of Ben & Jerry’s.

Best Buy will serve as the location for five “We Love You 3000” Tour stops, hosting in-store fan events to celebrate the nationwide release of Marvel Studios “Avengers: Endgame” on Blu-ray™ Aug. 13. Events will feature signings with Marvel Studios filmmakers and/or MCU talent; a special digital photo booth; specialty promotional giveaways, including MCU Funko Pop! Vinyl Figures and exclusive “Avengers: Endgame” prints; and much more.  Fans can also get their hands on the exclusive, limited edition "Avengers: Endgame” SteelBook and other collectable SteelBooks from the MCU at Best Buy stores across the country and on BestBuy.com.


For more information on what’s taking place in each market, visit www.Marvel.com/WeLoveYou3000.

Fans are encouraged to use the hashtag #WeLoveYou3000.


FAN EVENTS/TOUR STOPS:

July 20          SAN DIEGO, Comic-Con International - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo, Writers Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely and a special guest from the MCU

July 30            EVERETT, WA, Funko HQ – to be announced

Aug. 8             SAN FRANCISCO, Giants vs. Phillies at Oracle Park - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo at the San Francisco Giants’ Marvel Night

Aug. 13           MIAMI, Best Buy store – to be announced  

Aug. 13           CHICAGO, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo           

Aug. 13           TORRANCE, CA, Best Buy store – to be announced                                 

Aug. 14           MINNEAPOLIS, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo 

Aug. 20           CLEVELAND, Best Buy store - Directors Anthony & Joe Russo

Aug. 23-25      ANAHEIM, CA, D23 Expo 2019- to be announced



ABOUT “AVENGERS: ENDGAME” IN-HOME RELEASE:

Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Endgame,” the climactic conclusion to an unprecedented, 11-year cinematic journey in which the Avengers take one final stand against Thanos, delivered the biggest opening weekend in history and is currently one of the highest-grossing films of all time. On July 30, Avengers fans around the world are invited to assemble once more for the in-home release of “Avengers: Endgame” on Digital in HD, 4K Ultra HD™ and Movies Anywhere, followed by a physical release on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On-Demand beginning Aug. 13.

Marvel Studios Celebrates In-Home Release of "AVENGERS: ENDGAME" With the "We Love You 3000" Tour

Comic Con Showing "DARK SPECTER 2" -- Superhero Short Film

Superhero Short DARK SPECTER 2 To Be Featured At San Diego Comic-Con


It has been an incredible journey so far for the Dark Specter team. After racking up a slew of awards over the last year including four “Best Short Film” wins, Dark Specter 2 will be featured at Comic-Con International Independent Film Festival in San Diego this July.  The superhero short has been gaining praise for its unique take on the genre, combining action, comedy, and an original storyline.

The Dark Specter is an unlikely supervillain. Though he can throw fire from his arms, he’s not all powerful or accomplished. In fact, he’s unknown. A supervillain wannabe if you will. Mixing action with comedy, the story takes an interesting turn when we are shown the Dark Specter’s relationship with his mother. Nagging, but well-meaning, she is clearly suffering from the early stages of dementia. The Dark Specter is torn between his rise to infamy and caring for his loved one. Ah, the challenges of balancing the pursuit of dreams with reality.

WATCH THE TRAILER

Dark Specter 2 has already caught the attention of many. Indie Shorts Magazine called it “a brilliant take on the superhero genre, subverting the paradigm, well supported by a stellar cast and incredible writing.” At the Mindfield Film Festival in Albuquerque, they took home “Best Short Film,” “Best Actor” for Bruce Nachsin who plays the Dark Specter, and “Best Director” for Richard Tatum all in one day.  You can see a full list of awards and press here: http://www.darkspecter.com/media-press/

In May, Dark Specter 2 was released publicly on Facebook and was met with an overwhelmingly positive response. In has garnered over 38K views and it is still on the rise.  You can see the full film here: https://www.facebook.com/thedarkspecter/videos/418735552026551/

So where is all of this heading? Well, the goal is to turn Dark Specter into a full-length series and the team has been hard at work trying to make that happen. "It is an honor and a dream fulfilled to be featured as part of the Comic-Con Film Festival. I can't wait to be there with all you people who are fans of superhero fun. I hope to meet you and entertain you," says Bruce Nachsin creator of Dark Specter.

Dark Specter 2 is scheduled to be shown at Comic-Con  International Independent Film Festival in San Diego on Saturday, July 20th.  Dark Specter 2 will be part of the “Comics-Oriented” block which starts at 11:00 AM.  The Dark Specter team will be available to meet with fans and filmmakers who are interested in discussing the film.  A short panel discussion will take place following the showing.

The CCI-IFF takes place in the convention facility of the Marriott Marquis and Marina Hotel, next door to the Hall A side of the San Diego Convention Center.  The Film Festival room is Marriott Grand Ballroom 6, which is located on the second level of the building.  Look for signage onsite directing you to the screening room.

For more information on Dark Specter, visit http://www.darkspecter.com/.

Comic Con Showing "DARK SPECTER 2" -- Superhero Short Film

Just Announced - "DC'S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW: THE COMPLETE FOURTH SEASON" on Blu-ray & DVD September 24

Get Ready to Do Some Time!

"DC'S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW: THE COMPLETE FOURTH SEASON"

Time Jump to September 24, 2019 To Own the Blu-Ray™ and DVD

Exhilarating Extras Including All-New Featurette, Gag Reel & More Included on Blu-ray


BURBANK, CA (June 26, 2019) –The world’s most epic race against time continues as Warner Bros. Home Entertainment releases DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete Fourth Season on Blu-ray and DVD on September 24, 2019. Fans can get up to speed with all 16 captivating episodes from the fourth season, plus those that purchase a Blu-ray copy can enjoy timeless special features including an epic storytelling featurette, deleted scenes and a gag-reel. DC’s Legends of Tomorrow is The CW’s #3 show among Total Viewers, with over 1.8 million viewers tuning in weekly. ⃰

DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete Fourth Season is priced to own at $24.98 SRP for the DVD ($30.99 in Canada) and $29.98 SRP for the Blu-ray ($39.99 in Canada), which includes a Digital Copy (Available in the U.S.). DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete Fourth Season is also available to own on Digital via purchase from digital retailers.

*Source: Nielsen National TV View, 2018-19 broadcast season to date (09/24/2018 – 03/17/2019), Live + 7 Day ratings; excluding repeats, specials, movies, sports, less than 3 telecasts

After defeating the demon Mallus by cuddling him to death last season, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow join John Constantine and Ava Sharpe’s Time Bureau to save their world – and their legacy – from magical creatures from myths, fairytales and legends who have escaped and infected history. As the Legends time-travel across historical events and encounter famous figures, they now have to contend with an added shot of magical craziness!

“Over the past four seasons, DC's Legends of Tomorrow has captivated audiences through its incredible action and impressive special effects,” said Rosemary Markson, WBHE Senior Vice President, Television Marketing. "We’re excited to release the Blu-ray – the only format with in-depth bonus content in addition to the 16 action-packed episodes from season four for the DC Fanboys and loyal series fanbase.”

With Blu-ray’s unsurpassed picture and sound, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: The Complete Fourth Season Blu-ray release will include 1080p Full HD Video with DTS-HD Master Audio for English 5.1. The 3-disc Blu-ray will feature a high-definition Blu-ray and a Digital Copy of all 16 episodes from season four (Available in the U.S.).

DC's Legends of Tomorrow stars Brandon Routh (Arrow, Superman Returns), Caity Lotz (Arrow, Mad Men), Maisie Richardson-Sellers (The Originals), Tala Ashe (The Flash, The Carrie Diaries), Jes Macallan (Mistresses, Shameless), Courtney Ford (Dexter, Supernatural, True Blood), and Ramona Young (Blockers Santa Clarita Diet), with Nick Zano (The Final Destination) and Dominic Purcell (Prison Break, The Flash), with a special appearance by Matt Ryan (Constantine) reprising his popular role as John Constantine.

Based on the DC characters, DC's Legends of Tomorrow is produced by Berlanti Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television, with executive producers Greg Berlanti (Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, Blindspot, Black Lightning, Riverdale), Phil Klemmer (Chuck, Political Animals), Keto Shimizu (Arrow), Grainne Godfree (The Flash, Arrow) and Sarah Schechter (Arrow, The Flash, Blindspot, Supergirl, Black Lightning, Riverdale).


BLU-RAY EXTRA CONTENT

    DC’s Legends of Tomorrow: Legendary Storytelling
    Post Production Theater
    Gag Reel
    Deleted Scenes


16 ONE-HOUR EPISODES
1.   The Virgin Gary
2.   Witch Hunt
3.   Dancing Queen
4.   Wet Hot American Bummer
5.   Tagumo Attacks!!!
6.   Tender is the Nate
7.   Hell No, Dolly!
8.   Legends of To-Meow-Meow
9.   Lucha de Apuestas
10. The Getaway
11. Séance & Sensibility
12. The Eggplant, the Witch & the Wardrobe
13. Egg MacGuffin
14. Nip/Stuck
15. Terms of Service
16. Hey, World!

DIGITAL
The fourth season of DC’s Legends of Tomorrow is also currently available to own on Digital. Digital allows consumers to instantly stream and download all episodes to watch anywhere and anytime on their favorite devices. Digital is available from various retailers including iTunes, Amazon Video, PlayStation, Vudu, Xbox and others. A Digital Copy is also included with the purchase of specially marked Blu-ray discs for redemption and cloud storage (Available in the U.S.).

BASICS
Street Date: September 24, 2019
Order Due Date: August 20, 2019
BD and DVD Presented in 16x9 widescreen format
Running Time: Feature: Approx 768 min
Enhanced Content: Approx 25 min (Blu-ray only)

DVD
Price: $24.98 SRP
4 DVD-9s
Audio – English (5.1)
Subtitles – ESDH

BLU-RAY
Price: $29.98 SRP
3 BD-50s
Audio –DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 – English
Subtitles – ESDH

CANADA

DVD
Price: $30.99 SRP
4 DVD-9s
Audio – English (5.1)
Subtitles – ESDH

BLU-RAY
Price: $39.99 SRP
3 BD-50s
Audio –DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 – English
Subtitles – ESDH

About Warner Bros. Home Entertainment Inc.
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment (WBHE) brings together Warner Bros. Entertainment's home video, digital distribution and interactive entertainment businesses in order to maximize current and next-generation distribution scenarios. An industry leader since its inception, WBHE oversees the global distribution of content through packaged goods (Blu-ray Disc™ and DVD) and digital media in the form of electronic sell-through and video-on-demand via cable, satellite, online and mobile channels, and is a significant developer and publisher for console and online video game titles worldwide. WBHE distributes its product through third party retail partners and licensees.

About DC
Home to iconic brands DC (Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, Wonder Woman, The Flash, etc.), DC Vertigo (Sandman, Fables) and MAD, DC is the creative unit charged with strategically integrating across Warner Bros. and WarnerMedia. DC works in concert with many key Warner Bros. divisions to unleash its stories and characters across all media, including but not limited to film, television, consumer products, home entertainment, and interactive games. Publishing thousands of comic books, graphic novels and magazines each year, DC is one of the largest English-language publishers of comics in the world.

DC’s Legends of Tomorrow and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC. 

Just Announced - "DC'S LEGENDS OF TOMORROW: THE COMPLETE FOURTH SEASON" on Blu-ray & DVD September 24

GEMR Selects the Top 10 Marvel Legends Figures Of All Time

GEMR SELECTS THE
TOP 10 MARVEL LEGENDS FIGURES
OF ALL TIME

Just in time for Avengers: Endgame

LOS ANGELES --  Gemr, the world’s #1 destination for fans to discover, display and connect, announced today its Top 10 Marvel Legends Figures list of all time and it’s not what you’d expect. The Gemr team selected figures that stand the test of time and look great in any collection. Some of the figures are older and hard to find and some are new enough that you can still get them for close to retail price…at least until the April 26th release of Avengers: Endgame.

A quick bit of toy history though before the list.  The Marvel Legends lines have been around for quite some time. When the line was started by Toybiz, they were the most articulated action figures you could buy. Their articulation had articulation, as Gemr likes to point out. From moving fingers to their articulated toes, they were works of art for their time. Then, like a hungry Blob, Hasbro consumed Toybiz and took over the line.  Over the years, both companies have produced some good (and some bad) figures.

Below is the Gemr’s Top 10 list.

10.  Toybiz Beast
According to Gemr, this is an old standby figure. One thing to remember when talking about it is that this figure is 10 years old, so there are going to be some things that are...lacking. The sculpt isn’t as detailed as many of the figures that are coming out now, but that’s perhaps mostly a technology thing. The fur detail doesn’t cover his entire body, and is sort of patchy instead. However, where the fuzz is lacking -- the articulation isn’t.  The articulation, right down to his fingers and toes, allowed fans to pose him in so many ways as to never get bored. He could be placed into a handstand, or a perfect crouch, without breaking a sweat. And where the fur was lacking, the face wasn’t. His head sculpt is still one of the most comic accurate you can buy. Sure, he looked a little weird with his mouth open, but that doesn’t even take points off.

9.  Spider Gwen (Absorbing Wave)
This was a really anticipated figure and we weren’t disappointed. Spider Gwen, or Spider-Woman in her universe, is a character all seem to really enjoy. She doesn’t come with a vast range of accessories, or any extra hands (we really wish she came with a few extra hands -- they gave so many to Ben Riley from the same line), but that doesn’t stop her from being one of our all-time favorite figures. Her sculpt and paint app are beautiful. Her articulation is on point, and it’s worth it to say she has the best non-cloth hood we’ve ever seen.  She comes with two different heads, one with the mask on and hood up, and one with her mask off and hood down. Despite the hood, the masked head doesn’t lose any articulation and actually has more range of motion than the unmasked head. The biggest complaint with the figure is actually the really neutral expression of the unmasked head. It feels like she lacks the distinctive personality of Gwen so it is recommended to display her with the masked head. A must for any fan.

8.  Deadpool (Juggernaut Wave)
If you’re looking for a high-quality Deadpool with pretty much every accessory ever -- this is the one you want. There are a couple of other excellent Deadpools out there (the Toybiz is another favorite), but for the value, this is the one. The modern suit looks really good, the Bucky/Cap body is perfect for Deadpool, and the masked face has a really great, slightly sassy expression. The second head, an unmasked face with a rather playful, but murderous grin, is also good. This sculpt and paint app are much better than some of the others. The articulation is fantastic as well, which means it’s not only nice to look at -- but fun to pose. Then, there are the accessories -- there are so many accessories! It comes with two swords, two pistols, a knife, a shotgun, an energy rifle, a rocket launcher (complete with removable boxing glove), and finally -- a taco. What’s even more amazing is that almost every single thing Deadpool comes with can be stored on his body! The swords sheath on his back, the rocket launcher pegs between them, the pistols have holsters, the knife goes in the boot, and the laser rifle and shotguns fit perfectly into his hands. The only thing left is the taco -- which is a crying shame. A taco holster would have been a nice addition. Alas, maybe next time.

7.  MCU Gamora (Mantis Wave)
Now, Gemr was hesitant to put an MCU figure on this list, but all agreed this one needs to be here. The first Gamora was ‘meh’ at best -- maybe a wiggly hand gesture if we’re feeling generous. Thankfully for the fans, they kicked it up a notch with the Mantis Wave. Her articulation and sculpt are much better and is one of the many things that made her the standout of the wave. The accessories are really nice; you get an extended sword with nicely sculpted lines to show where it folds (much better than the last one), a folded sword, and her giant gun. These things are all fantastic -- great accessories can make a figure, after all. But for true critics, it’s the head sculpt. This Gamora has one of the closest resemblances to the on-screen character seen from Hasbro. The likeness alone makes it worth the purchase. The paint app is overall really nice, and the ombre of her hair is excellent. She looks awesome posed with the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy crew. Skip the older version -- this is the Gamora you want.

6.  Dark Phoenix (Toys-R-Us exclusive two pack)
Gemr suggests ignoring the Cyclops in this two pack because he’s not all that special, but Dark Phoenix is incredible -- and why fans need to pick up this pack. Never have you seen such a dangerous looking female sculpt in a Marvel Legends figure, and it makes most fans very happy. The paint is really great, and the one non-head accessory, the translucent fire phoenix, is perfect.  The three heads she comes with are what pushes this figure over the edge. Two of the heads are nice, but not enough to make this a must buy -- however, the third head makes this figure. This new sculpt is stellar. Her eyes are painted yellow, her lips black, and her hair is a beautiful translucent red which catches the light incredibly. She is really easy to pose, and her paint app steals the show. All these things add up to a must-have figure for any Legends Collection.

5.  Wolverine (Juggernaut Wave)
There are a few good Wolverine figures out there, and the Toy Biz Wolverine is an old favorite -- but Gemr believes this one is better. First things first, the Juggernaut Wave Wolverine’s accessories. Fans actually get interchangeable hands! The claws in and claws out hands give so many more posing options, and boy does this figure pose nicely. They also gave him a nice ab crunch, which opens up even more dynamic poses for display. There are a few complaints about this Wolverine, but they are more minor gripes (we’re collectors, after all -- there are always gripes). It would be nice if they had given him some hair. Wolverine is a hairy, hairy man, and they didn’t paint any hair on the arms or give him any stubble. They also could have been a bit cleaner on the mask paint app. Not all of the figures have the paint issue, but some do. Even with those minor annoyances, this is still by far the best Wolverine in the line. If it came with a snarling head, it would have been perfect.

4.  Archangel (Hit Monkey Wave)
This guy is actually a repaint of the SDCC Archangel they released, and no one at Gemr seemed to be bothered by that. The color is a little off from the comics, but honestly, it’s not bad. We think that the darker blue makes the metallic pink stand out better. We also think the metallic pink makes the figure ‘pop’ more. The head sculpt and paint are SO much better than anything previously released, which makes him a better fit in the line-up than the previous one (who had a bizarre face). The wings are incredibly sculpted and make him look great in any pose. They move enough that fans can set him on the ground or set him up on a peg stand for flying poses. The only comment is that they didn’t keep the metallic silver paint app of the SDCC exclusive. Though the SDCC wings flop around and fall off really easily, the color was so spot on. We get it -- they need to keep the con exclusives unique -- but that one change would have made this figure perfect.

3.  ToyBiz Nightcrawler
Despite being about a decade old, this Nightcrawler holds up really, really well. As mentioned before, the articulation on the Toybiz Marvel Legends lines are insane! Nightcrawler is another figure where the articulation isn’t a detriment. He has so many joints that it’s hard to keep track of them all, and it allows for some incredible posing. Not to mention that the sculpt is really, really good for the time it was released. The musculature isn’t outrageous, and it keeps him looking slim but still ready to throw down. His hands and feet are comic accurate, and the individual finger movement makes for natural posing.  Fans will want to play with it for hours. The variety of poses he can be put into is unrivaled. Then there is the head sculpt. While it isn’t the iconic Jim Lee version, it’s still amazing. He’s a little more chiseled than one might expect from Nightcrawler, but even so, all the wrinkles are perfectly crafted, and the hair is really well sculpted and painted. Even if this figure is a decade old -- hunt it down and pick it up. It’s worth every penny.

2.  Toy Biz BAF Sentinel
Gemr didn’t want to include any Build a Figures, mainly because they felt like they are in a class of their own. However, this one needs to be on the list of best Marvel Legends figures. It just has to. The sculpt on this is incredible. Every opening in the armor has incredible details on the wiring inside, and the metallic paint app is perfect. The whole look is so perfectly iconic, that it warranted being on the list. The paint, overall, is kind of sloppy -- but that isn’t a drawback. Usually, haphazard paint would upset fans, but the slapdash dry brushing makes the Sentinel look as if it’s been through hell. There are lots of dings, scuffs, and roughing up, which makes it look like this guy has been through combat and came out kicking. It comes with a pair of highly posable tentacles which hold up nicely -- though they take a little force to get in the holes on its palms. And at about 15” tall, it will dominate a X-Men display and make for an ominous presence on the shelf.

1.Pizza Spidey (Hobgoblin Wave)
Fans worldwide have strong feelings about Spider-Man. Like most Marvel fans, he’s one of Gemr’s favorite characters -- so standards for a figure are pretty high. There are quite a few of the different Spidey releases, but this is by far the favorite. He is as close to a perfect Spider-Man as you can get. Everything about the sculpt is excellent, and they went with the painted on webbing instead of the sculpted version -- it can make the figure look too chunky and take away from the figure itself. Not to mention that fans get a second head sculpt -- half unmasked. This was completely necessary and a great bonus for this figure. Then the hands -- you get so many hands! He comes with three sets: fists, thwip, and wall-crawler. All those hands lead to an abundance of poses and opportunities.  Most fans like to play with their figures and this one is great for that.

Pizza Spidey can actually do an unaided handstand on his wall-crawling hands, and there is the accessory that gives this iconic figure his name in collector circles. The slice of pepperoni pizza he comes with is sculpted as well as the figure, and sits really nicely in his hand. It wasn’t needed to make this the top Spidey figure -- but it definitely helps.

To celebrate the upcoming release of Avengers: Endgame, Gemr has set up a “Back Up Plan” Giveaway.  Fans can enter by signing up for the Gemr platform or app and joining the Marvel club. Additional entries can be gained by adding their own Marvel collection photos to their page. Deadline to enter is April 29, 2019.

ABOUT GEMR
Gemr is the leading platform for collectors to discover, display, discuss and buy & sell collectibles. With over 75 million collectors worldwide, Gemr offers a vertically integrated platform for all levels of collecting. Gemr currently has over 540,000 users and 537 unique clubs covering anime, comics, gaming, horror, sci-fi, sports and more. Visit Gemr at www.gemr.com or download the app to join the Gemr world. 

GEMR Selects the Top 10 Marvel Legends Figures Of All Time

Motor and Armory Films Team For "THE DARK AGE" Comic Series

MOTOR AND ARMORY FILMS TEAM  FOR “THE DARK AGE” COMIC SERIES

Comic will make its debut during Free Comic Book Day on May 4th


Los Angeles, CA (March 26, 2019) - Armory Films’ Christopher Lemole and Tim Zajaros (Arctic, The Peanut Butter Falcon, Mudbound) have teamed with Don Handfield (The Founder, Kill the Messenger) and his production company, Motor, on THE DARK AGE, a new comic book penned by Handfield.

With plans to adapt into a television series, Red 5 Comics (AFTERBURN, soon to be seen on the big screen starring Gerard Butler) will publish the comic, following the success of their collaboration on Handfield’s first comic series THE RIFT. The book features art by Leo Rodrigues, colors by Ringo-nominee Dijjo Lima and letters by Eisner-nominee DC Hopkins.

In the near future, every piece of workable metal on earth suddenly turns to worthless piles of rust and dust. With no technology, no guns, no computers, humanity reverts to a violent feudal system with each pocket of civilization ruled by knights of wood & plastic & concrete... This is the new DARK AGE.

The story begins with Ethen Riker, an archeology professor at Cornell, his pregnant wife, Helen and his daughter Jonnie, enjoying a quiet lunch at a campus cafe. When his stirring spoon, then the table, then the metal foundations of the building itself suddenly crumble, Ethen rushes his family outside to witness the world quite literally coming to end. We flash forward thirteen years post-metal as he struggles to protect his family in this new paleo-plastic world and unravel the dark mystery of why metal disappeared.

Handfield said, “THE DARK AGE was inspired by how dependent we as a society are on technology, computers and metal to survive and asking, 'what if' it all disappeared? I wanted to create a post-apocalyptic world that wasn't a radioactive wasteland, but more of a lush “World After People” where as a storyteller I could explore how cultures would crumble and reform based on primitive technologies. All of this of course wrapped inside a strong drama about a family trying to survive.”

Chris Lemole and Tim Zajaros from Armory added: “We could not be more excited for our first foray into the comic universe. We have been talking to Don for a while about doing something in the comic book space.  We're very much looking forward to collaborating with him on THE DARK AGE and help build this universe from pen to screen.”

THE DARK AGE was one of a select number of titles chosen to have a preview of the comic given away at stores nationwide during Free Comic Book Day on May 4, 2019. Issue #1 of the actual comic series will launch in July, with both a regular and a variant cover -- just in time for Comic-Con 2019 in San Diego.

Armory Films slate includes: Joe Penna’s Arctic, starring Mads Mikkelsen, which is currently in theatres; The Peanut Butter Falcon, starring Shia LaBeouf, Jon Bernthal, Dakota Johnson and Bruce Dern, which received rave reviews and the Narrative Spotlight Audience Award out of its SXSW premiere earlier this month; Dee Rees’ lauded feature Mudbound, starring Carey Mulligan and Garrett Hedlund; and Charlie Day’s directorial debut El Tonto starring Day, Kate Beckinsale, Jason Sudeikis, which is currently in post-production.

Handfield, the co-creator of History Channel’s “Knightfall,” sold his first comic series, THE RIFT, to Amblin/Steven Spielberg, which was produced as an episode of the upcoming “Amazing Stories” reboot on Apple. His second comic series THE MALL was just optioned for television by Ivan Reitman’s Montecito Pictures.

Consulting on the book is archeology professor Dr. Bill Schindler; director of the Eastern Shore Food Lab, an Associate Professor of Anthropology and Archaeology at Washington College in Chestertown, Maryland and the co-star of the National Geographic series, “The Great Human Race.”  As an experimental archaeologist, primitive technologist, and chef, his research and teaching revolve around a comprehensive understanding of prehistoric and traditional technologies as they relate to food acquisition, processing, storage, and consumption.  Also consulting on the project is Jay Handfield, PhD, Dr. John Lucas, MD, and PhD Candidate in Medieval Studies at Cornell University, Patrick Naeve.

Motor and Armory Films plan this as the first in a slate of comic books, to be penned by Handfield as well as additional writers to be announced.  Handfield is repped by The Cartel and Dale De La Torre of Jacobson, Russell, Saltz, Nassim & De La Torre.

ABOUT ARMORY:
Founded in 2013 by Christopher Lemole and Tim Zajaros, Armory Films is a film finance and production company that creates, develops, produces, and finances high concept and commercially viable content. With the ability to finance projects from initial creative inception through production and release, Armory has amassed an impressive slate spanning numerous genres and styles, nurturing distinctive stories into groundbreaking films.

Armory recently wrapped production in Los Angeles on Charlie Day’s directorial debut El Tonto starring Day, Kate Beckinsale, Jason Sudeikis, John Malkovich, Edie Falco, Jillian Bell, Ken Jeong, Adrien Brody, Ray Liotta and Travis Fimmel. They produced Joe Penna’s Arctic, starring Mads Mikkelsen which made its world premiere at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival where it was acquired by Bleeker Street for North American distribution. The film released in the US on February 1, 2019.

They also produced and financed Dee Rees’ lauded feature Mudbound, starring Carey Mulligan and Garrett Hedlund, which rose to critical success since its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017. After being acquired by Netflix, the film went on to receive a record breaking four Academy Award Nominations, making the film a milestone in Netflix’s history in the awards race.

Additional recent productions include: The Peanut Butter Falcon, starring Shia LaBeouf, Jon Bernthal, Dakota Johnson and Bruce Dern, which received rave reviews when it premiered at the SXSW Film Festival, and Nicolas Cage and Selma Blair’s latest horror/thriller Mom and Dad, which premiered in the midnight madness section at the Toronto International Film Festival.

ABOUT MOTOR
Motor is a content production company focused on Film, TV and the creation of Intellectual Property. On the film side, the company is producing Switched On at Focus with Emma Frost (White Queen) adapting the best-selling memoir by John Elder Robison, as well as the US remake of the #1 grossing horror film in Vietnam The Housemaid being adapted by Academy-Award winner Geoffrey Fletcher (Precious). 

Motor and Armory Films Team For "THE DARK AGE" Comic Series