Wednesday, March 31, 2010

NEW Iron Man 2 Eye Candy

It's Nick Fury, Black Widow, Iron Man and War Machine versus Ivan Vanko AKA Whiplash,
Melina Vostokoff AKA Iron Maiden and the malicious machinations of Justin Hammer and his army of military robot drones. It's the smack down heard cross the Marvel Movie Universe!!! Can't wait for this movie? Neither can we..to the point where it's causing me actual physical anguish and nightmares that my life is incomplete. ONE MONTH and all will be revealed!! Until then, feast on the lavish eye candy bestowed upon us by the benevolent wizards of Paramount.











P.S. Someone bring me a Black Widow poster from Wonder Con!!
P.S.S...If I get enough comments below, I'll run the next Iron Man article with the giant sized version of the BW poster so you can have it printed and practice making out with her.


NEW Expendables Trailer Will Kick Your Monitor's Ass

Wrap your geek toxic brain around the most awesome lineup of action stars you can manage. Now, put them all in one movie. DREAMS DO COME TRUE!! Lionsgate, you complete me.

THE EXPENDABLES is a hard-hitting action/thriller about a group of mercenaries hired to infiltrate a South American country and overthrow its ruthless dictator. Once the mission begins, the men realize things aren’t quite as they appear, finding themselves caught in a dangerous web of deceit and betrayal. With their mission thwarted and an innocent life in danger, the men struggle with an even tougher challenge – one that threatens to destroy this band of brothers.

Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone) is a man with nothing to lose. Fearless and void of emotion, he is the leader, the sage and the strategist of this tight-knit band of men who live on the fringe. His only attachment is to his pickup truck, his seaplane and his team of loyal modern-day warriors. His is a true cynic who describes what he does as “removing those hard to get at stains.” The team behind him is made up of Lee Christmas (Jason Statham), former SAS and a savant with anything that has a blade; Yin Yang (Jet Li), a master at close-quarter combat; Hale Caesar (Terry Crews), who has known Barney for ten years and is a long-barrel weapons specialist; Toll Road (Randy Couture), a skilled demolitions expert and considered the intellect of the group; and Gunnar Jensen (Dolph Lundgren), a combat veteran and an expert in precision sniping who struggles with his own demons.

When the mysterious Church offers Barney a job no one else would take, Barney and his team embark on what appears to be a routine mission: overthrow General Gaza (David Zayas), the murderous dictator of the small island country of Vilena and end the years of death and destruction inflicted on its people. On a reconnaissance mission to Vilena, Barney and Christmas meet their contact Sandra (Giselle Itie), a local freedom-fighter with a dark secret. They also come to learn who their true enemy is: rogue ex-CIA operative James Monroe (Eric Roberts) and his henchman Paine (Steve Austin). When things go terribly wrong, Barney and Christmas are forced to leave Sandra behind, essentially giving her a death sentence. Haunted by this failure, Barney convinces the team to return to Vilena to rescue the hostage and finish the job he started. And to perhaps save a soul: his own.

Tribeca Film Festival Free Screenings, Panel Discussions and Outdoor Events

The Tribeca Film Festival was created to bring new films before the eyes of New York City. Every year, a fantastic mix of genres and regions are represented in Tribeca's lineup and along side, the show coordinators pack in some killer events.

The 2010 Tribeca Film Festival, presented by Founding Sponsor American Express, announced today the return of its signature free community events – the Tribeca Drive-In (April 22 – 24), Family Festival Street Fair (May 1) and Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day (May 1). These free events draw thousands of people downtown to enjoy top-notch talent and entertainment, and also serve to highlight the restaurants, merchants, schools and community organizations of Lower Manhattan. New this year, Family Festival-goers can walk an official TFF red carpet, catch a free (ticketed) screening of the Tribeca Family Festival feature film, “Snowmen,” and enjoy a variety of performances and activities inside and outside of BMCC Tribeca PAC at the Street Fair. For the first time, Washington Market Park will also host storytellers, puppeteers, stilt walkers, and other Family Festival favorites.

The Tribeca Drive-In, TFF’s highly anticipated outdoor screening series that entertains families and movie lovers of all ages, will feature the world premiere of two new documentaries ESPN Films’ “The Birth of Big Air” and “and HBO’S “El Espiritu de la Salsa (The Spirit of Salsa),” along with a special screening of the beloved family comedy “Big,” presented by 20th Century Fox in honor of its 75th anniversary. BMX demos, salsa dancing, and carnival games, are examples of the interactive fun that will precede each screening. Two returning free series of panels will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of movie-making: “Tribeca Talks: Pen to Paper,” hosted by Barnes & Noble and “Tribeca Talks: Industry.” This year’s TFF will take place from April 21 – May 2, 2010.

“Our free community events are the heartbeat of our Festival, which was created to bring people and business back downtown through a mix of film and events in our neighborhood. We look forward to once again highlighting all that Tribeca has to offer,” said Jane Rosenthal, co-founder of TFF.

The free events are as follows:

TRIBECA DRIVE-IN OUTDOOR SCREENINGS
Thursday – Saturday, April 22 – April 24, 2010 World Financial Center Plaza

The following films will be featured at the Tribeca Drive-In, TFF’s outdoor screening series for film enthusiasts of all ages. Co-sponsored by Caesars Atlantic City and hosted by Brookfield, owner of the World Financial Center, this free evening of cinema under the stars is open to the public, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. The programs will also begin at 6:00 p.m., with screenings starting at dusk, approximately 8:15 p.m.
  • El Espiritu de la Salsa (The Spirit of Salsa) - Thursday, April 22

To celebrate the world premiere of this invigorating documentary, live salsa bands, local dancers and salsa pros will come together to strut their stuff for a night of salsa under the stars. Movie-goers will enjoy salsa lessons, dance contests and percussive revelry for all ages.

The Spirit of Salsa (El Espiritu de la Salsa) -- Lonely hearts from all over New York City -- from an ER doc and an equities trader to a construction contractor and a cop -- meet in Spanish Harlem once a week at Santo Rico Dance School, where they learn the rich art of salsa. Under the great salsa dance teacher Tomas Guerrero’s tutelage, they have only six weeks to rehearse for a public performance. Directed by Francisco Bello and Tim Sternberg. Produced by Jon Alpert, Francisco Bello, Matthew O’Neill and Tim Sternberg. Featuring music by Tito Puente, Eddie Santiago, Héctor Lavoe, Norah Jones, and more. World Premiere, Documentary (USA) Suggested for ages 8 and up. An HBO Documentary Films presentation.

  • Big - Friday, April 23

At Tribeca’s official family night, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment will present a special screening of the beloved family comedy “Big,” in honor of the studio’s 75th anniversary, a year-long celebration that will honor Fox’s library and legacy of fan favorite films. Everyone will have a blast enjoying classic carnival-style fun on the waterfront including face painters, fortune tellers, games, trivia contests, music and more before the screening of this beloved comedy.

Big -- At a carnival on Coney Island, young Josh Baskin (Tom Hanks) wishes he was big-only to awake the next morning and discover he is! With the help of his friend Billy (Jared Rushton), Josh lands a job at a toy company in Manhattan. There, his inner wisdom enables him to successfully predict what children want to buy, making the awestruck, naïve Josh irresistible to a beautiful ladder-climbing colleague (Elizabeth Perkins). But the more he experiences being an adult, the more Josh longs for the simple joys of childhood. Directed by Penny Marshall. Written by Gary Ross and Anne Spielberg. (USA) PG. .A Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment Presentation.

  • The Birth of Big Air - Saturday, April 24

BMX street tricks and freestyle demonstrations will take place on the upper and lower plazas to highlight the world premiere of this new ESPN Films documentary. Stick around for a spectacular stunt extravaganza featuring BMX pioneer Mat Hoffman, a.k.a. “The Condor.”

The Birth of Big Air -- In 1985, at the tender age of 13, Mat Hoffman entered into the BMX circuit as an amateur. By 16, he had soared to the top of the sport. Throughout his prodigious career, Hoffman has ignored conventional limitations; instead focusing his efforts on the purity of the sport and the pursuit of “what’s next.” Academy Award® nominee Spike Jonze and extreme sport fanatic Johnny Knoxville, along with director Jeff Tremaine, showcase the inner workings and exploits of the man who gave birth to “Big Air.” World Premiere, Documentary (USA) An ESPN Films “30 for 30”Presentation. Suggested for ages 8 and up.

TRIBECA FAMILY FESTIVAL STREET FAIR

Saturday, May 1 - 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Greenwich Street from Chambers St. to Harrison St.
BMCC Tribeca PAC (199 Chambers St. bet. Greenwich St. and West St.)
Washington Market Park (Chambers St. at Greenwich St.)

The Tribeca Family Festival, presented by Founding Sponsor American Express, will feature the annual Street Fair on Saturday, May 1 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Greenwich Street from Chambers Street to Harrison Street and at venues throughout the Tribeca neighborhood. The fair, a Festival favorite which drew more than 200,000 people last year, is free and open to the public, and promises to be a day of family fun and lively entertainment.

New this year, festival-goers can walk an official Tribeca Film Festival Red Carpet, catch a free (ticketed) screening of the Tribeca Family Festival feature film “Snowmen,” and enjoy a variety of performances and activities inside and outside of BMCC Tribeca PAC. For the first time, Washington Market Park will also host storytellers, puppeteers, sand sculptors and other festival favorites. Throughout the Street Fair will be talented performers, dancers, stilt walkers, Broadway performances, arts and crafts, face painters, and much more. Students from local schools will also be at the fair with creative fundraising activities and vibrant student artwork. The Street Fair will host restaurants, merchants and organizations from the Tribeca neighborhood. More details and a map of events will be available in the coming weeks at www.tribecafilm.com.

Street Fair highlights include:

* New this year, families will have the chance to walk an official Tribeca Film Festival Red Carpet at BMCC Tribeca PAC. Families can pose for photos on the carpet with wax figures of their favorite stars from Madame Tussauds New York. Cast members from the Broadway show “Wicked,” Broadway Kids Care, AudraRox and Bubble Do Beatles will take center stage outdoors on the plaza. A student rock band and student afro-cuban drumline along with local youth ballet schools, dance troupes, gymnastics teams, school choirs and other creative groups will perform at BMCC Tribeca PAC.

* To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, the Church Street School for Music and Art will expand its offerings at the Street Fair to include a massive Guitar “Play-in” led by Church Street School dad Mike Diamond “Mike D” of the Beastie Boys as well as ribbon weaving, specialty music programs and art workshops located at 74 Warren Street (at Chambers Street).

* For the first time, families can attend a free (ticketed) screening of a Tribeca Family Festival feature film after the Street Fair. This special presentation of “Snowmen,” hosted by the Tribeca Cinemas Kids Club, will be screened at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 1 at BMCC Tribeca PAC, Theatre 1. For ticket information and more details visit www.tribecafilm.com in the coming weeks. See below for a synopsis on the film.
o Snowmen -- A fun, heartwarming comedy, directed by Robert Kirbyson, follows the adventures of 10-year-old Billy and his misfit friends as they hatch a scheme to set a Guinness World Record. Along this journey of self-discovery, the boys conquer neighborhood bullies, unite a community, and discover that the only lasting legacy is friendship. Starring: Bobby Coleman, Josh Flitter, Ray Liotta, Christopher Lloyd, and Beverley Mitchell. Suggested for ages 8 and up.

* Also new this year, Washington Market Park will feature face painting and sand sculpting as well as lively jugglers, stiltwalkers and musicians. Families can head to the park gazebo for special performances by master storytellers and puppeteers.
* Improv experts Broadway’s Next Hit Musical and the theater group Making Books Sing will also perform at the Street Fair.
* Families will enjoy the popular Kite Garden, where kids can make their own kites, and the Bubble Garden where youngsters can create gigantic bubbles.
* Take Two Film Academy will help children develop their dramatic skills by giving everyone a chance to host their own talk show.
* Little ones can get their hands dirty, sculpt clay and explore their creative side in the Arts and Crafts Pavilion.
* Imagination Playground will bring giant foam blocks and other fun elements for children to play, dream, build and explore endless possibilities.
* Victorian Gardens Amusement Park from Wollman Rink in Central Park will bring the magic downtown with several performances. Shows encourage audience participation and will bring smiles and giggles to all faces.
* The Tribeca Fun Squad will lead Hula Hoop Contests, Dance-Offs and other Wacky Street Games.

· Bloomberg will create a 3D photo experience for adults and children alike and the magic of 3D will be brought to life.

· Polaroid will be onsite to take fun candids and AT&T will offer a special activity for the kids.

· An encore screening of Downtown Youth Behind the Camera, a series of short films created by elementary and middle school students from downtown New York City, will also be shown. The screenings from these emerging filmmakers are non-ticketed and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Other sponsors bringing great activities to the Street Fair include: 101.9 RXP, The New York Times, Time Out New York, and Time Warner Cable.

TRIBECA/ESPN SPORTS DAY
Saturday, May 1 - 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Duane Street between Greenwich Street and Hudson Street

Back for its fourth season, Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day will be on Saturday, May 1, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and will play out this year on Duane Street between Greenwich Street and Hudson Street. The event is free and open to the public. Sports fans will have the opportunity to participate in various interactive sports-related games, demonstrations and giveaways as part of the Family Festival Street Fair. Fans of all ages will enjoy the exciting BMX Jams Tour*, along with special appearances by their favorite athletes, dance teams, mascots and sports personalities.

* Mr. Met will be on hand to greet baseball lovers. Major League Soccer’s New York Red Bulls street team will showcase their crazy freestyle soccer tricks and skills, and 1050 ESPN Radio will also be onsite.
* The New York Women’s Baseball Association will conduct pitching and throwing clinics. ESPN’s “Play Your Way” will set up an interactive play spot for the little ones to hop, jump, skip and soar, while PowerPlay NYC will offer various sports clinics to help kids learn the fundamentals.
* Fans will also enjoy activities from their favorite teams, including the New York Knicks, New York Rangers, and WNBA’s New York Liberty.

Sports elements will be updated and added throughout the weeks leading up to the Festival. Visit www.tribecafilm.com for more details.

*BMX pending weather conditions.

TRIBECA TALKS: PEN TO PAPER - Free panel discussions hosted by Barnes & Noble will feature conversations on the artistic process of screenwriting.

Illustrating History : It’s one thing to write a film based on a book or play, but when your subject is a real person, the attention to detail from script to screen is supreme. Movie magic can bring history to life, but some filmmakers change the way we look at the traditional biopic along the way. Panelists include sex & drugs & rock & roll writer Paul Viragh and director Mat Whitecross, My Queen Karo writer/director Dorothée van den Berghe, and The Chameleon director/co-writer Jean-Paul Salomé. Moderated by Marie Claire film critic Caryn James.

DATE: Saturday, April 24
TIME: 12 PM
LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

New York Stories : Shaped by the sights, sounds, and characters abuzz in its boroughs, New York is the antithesis of a cookie-cutter city. How do filmmakers approach this ever-changing landscape to render our hometown and its ultra-contrasting neighborhoods? Panelists include Arias With a Twist director Bobby Sheehan and performer Joey Arias, Monogamy writer/director Dana Adam Shapiro, The Woodmans director C. Scott Willis, and actor/writer Hill Harper. Moderated by NY1’s Budd Mishkin.

DATE: Sunday, April 25
TIME: 12 PM
LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

Authors at the Helm : Whether it’s a novelist, screenwriter, playwright, or songwriter, crossing the line from page to screen is no easy feat. Hear the difficulties and triumphs of the process from some of the best jacks-of-all-trades in the biz. Panelists include Nice Guy Johnny writer/director Edward Burns, Snap writer/director and playwright Carmel Winters, and Omar Rodriguez Lopez, Grammy-winning recording artist and writer/director of The Sentimental Engine Slayer. Moderated by The New Yorker’s Susan Orlean.

DATE: Monday, April 26
TIME: 12 PM
LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

TRIBECA TALKS: INDUSTRY - Free panel discussions will explore the business and technology sides of filmmaking.

Is The Sky Falling? A Closer Look at the Future of Film Distribution : Depending on whom you ask, the landscape of film distribution is changing either for the better or worse. So which is it? Is the sky really falling on the film industry? Join filmmakers, sales agents, and distributors in a discussion about enabling independent film and filmmakers to reach audiences and make money in this digital landscape. Panelists include Eamonn Bowles, president of Magnolia Pictures, Ted Hope, producer/partner of This Is That Productions, Efe Cakarel, founder and CEO of The Auteurs, Arvind Ethan David, CEO of Slingshot Studios and producer of The Infidel, Paul Cohen, president of Red Hills Releasing, and Marc Simon, partner at Cowan, DeBaets, Abrahams & Sheppard LLP.. Moderated by Geoff Gilmore, Chief Creative Officer of Tribeca Enterprises.

DATE: Friday, April 23
TIME: 2 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Checking Up On Docs: A Conversation with Sheila Nevins : As the landscape of nonfiction film continues to evolve in today’s complex market, the documentary form has taken on a more central role in filmmaking around the world. For more than 20 years, Sheila Nevins and HBO Documentary Films have been at the forefront of exposing innovative new documentary films to a wider audience. Join us for a conversation with Sheila Nevins to hear her perspective with Tribeca’s own Geoff Gilmore, as they candidly discuss why documentaries are more important today than ever before.

DATE: Sunday, April 25
TIME: 1 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Digital Cinema: Learning and Loving the New Distribution Paradigm : Sponsored by Cinedigm Entertainment Group - As cinemas replace 35mm projectors with digital equipment, it literally upends the old-fashioned indie release model. From virtual red carpet premieres and talent Q&As, to releasing indie film series and concerts/events, Cinedigm’s digital theatrical distribution allows producers and talent to connect with fans in ways that have never been utilized before. Make sure you fully realize the enormous impact of the global digital cinema conversion on both revenue downstreams and release opportunities. Learn from Cinedigm’s experienced team and outside producers how you can benefit from digital theatrical distribution. Panelists include Michele Martell, COO of Cinedigm Entertainment Group; Jonathan Dern, award-winning producer, LIVE 3D Programming, Concerts, Animation; producer Mark Ehrenkranz of the NY Film Critics Series; and J. Todd Harris, producer of Bottle Shock, The Kids Are Alright, and Crooked Arrows.

DATE: Monday, April 26
TIME: 12 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

Docs Doing It Right : Sponsored by Panavision - Documentary filmmaking is no walk in the park. The demanding conditions, inexhaustible research, mobile subjects, and sometimes impossible access is enough to make any documentarian’s head spin. Even the most weathered of the bunch will run into obstacles, but with a few tricks and the correct preparation and equipment, nothing is unattainable. Join Alexandra Codina (Monica & David), Thorkell Hardarson (Feathered Cocaine), Paul Crowder and Jon Small (Last Play at Shea), and reps from Panavision as they discuss the joys and the dramas of capturing true stories. Moderated by The Hollywood Reporter’s Georg Szalai.

DATE: Monday, April 26
TIME: 2 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Dollar and Sense: Making the Most of Your Production Budget : Sponsored by SAP - Filmmakers know what’s important in making their film: the best script, the best actors, and getting the biggest bang for every dollar spent on production. Whether it’s $100,000 or $100 million, managing resources and getting the utmost creative impact out of the budget is key. Attend this panel with SAP, the world’s leading software company to the major film studios, as they show you a solution that can help guide independent filmmakers and producers through the bumpy roads of filmmaking from pre-production through post-production. Join Craig Cohen, producer of Beware the Gonzo, Jen Gatien, producer of Meskada, Jordan Horowitz, producer of Meet Monica Velour, and SAP representatives as they discuss what to do after your film is financed and how the right software can be your A+ support system through thick and thin.

DATE: Wednesday, April 28
TIME: 3 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

Talking With Pictures : Sponsored by Kodak - There are a million and one ways to tell a story, and twice as many stories to tell. Whether it’s a comedy, romance, noir, horror, or sci-fi, the look of a film has a major role in determining and defining the tone. But does the visual style define genre or does genre dictate visual style? The collaboration of directors and cinematographers results in the ability to capture and convey narrative through the use of shadow, darkness, and light. The gasp of fear or a feeling of nostalgia can be achieved by a gel on a lens or the framing of the scene. Join writer/director Lee Isaac Chung (Lucky Life), director Jacob Tierney (The Trotsky), producer Jon Kilik (Babel and The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) and other TFF filmmakers and cinematographers in a discussion that proves there is always more than meets the eye.

DATE: Thursday, April 29
TIME: 2 PM
LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Stark Expo 2010 Website Launches

Prepare to geek out so hard, your brains might hurt a little when you are done! The marketing masterminds in charge of Iron Man 2 have launched a website specifically for Stark Expo 2010, that lavish event we see glimpses of in the new film with the stage full of Ironette dancers flanking Tony Stak's arrival in full armor. This is the Marvel Universe version of the World's fair, and now you can practically take a virtual tour with concept art, videos from Stark Industries and the 74 Expo (introduced by Howard Stark himself), downloadable art and even a 3 dimentional map of the show grounds with clickable landmarks. Run over to http://www.starkexpo2010.com/ and start planning your bootleg Expo 74 t shirts now!

Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions

Activision sets the stage for Spider-Man's return to your favorite console. Shattered Dimensions allows you to play your favorite web head in 4 different realities. Two have already been revealed, the Noir, depression era Spider-Man tale and the current Amazing universe. Gamespot got the skinny with an exclusive teaser trailer showing Kraven the Hunter and Hammerhead among the baddies you'll get to pummel senseless.



So two more realities remain a secret. Which reality would you like to run around in??

Marvel Zombies - Not very likely, even though we'd all scream for it. Who the hell would he battle?
Ultimate Universe - Very likely, even though teenage Spider-Man isn't far from the cannon universe.
Spider-Man 2099 - Very likely they'd have one universe back in time and one forward.
House of M - LOVE this idea. Opens up a whole new world of battle possibilities in a reality where Magneto is royalty and super heroes are rock stars.
1602 - Back in time to a medievally universe where Spidey has a frilly neckerchief. Very cool visuals come with this universe, but I'm not sure a game developer would find the action they are looking for.

I'd vote for Zombies and House of M, but I'd put money on 2099 and House of M. Place your bets!

Jackie Chan Takes Kicking Ass Seriously in The Shinjuku Incident

We've been watching Jackie Chan blow our minds with amazing feats of martial arts prowess and death defying stunts all delivered at break neck speed, and through it all there was always a level of the absurd to cushion us from the reality of these situations. A Jackie Chan movie was always more a Bugs Bunny cartoon than Clint Eastwood life and death drama. In between all of the American releases, there surely must have been countless cop dramas overseas, but it wasn't what Chan was known for here in the states and make no mistake, he was probably reminded of this by many a Hollywood suit. Now comes The Shinjuku Incident, telling a very real story of what people will do to protect their friends and family and the depths they'll traverse just to survive.

Like all great epics, it is love that drives the man. "Steelhead" leads a simple life in China with dreams of starting a family with the woman he loves one day. She follows an opportunity to Japan, leaving Steelhead broken-hearted. After a time, and no word from his love, he too sets off for Japan and quickly finds himself unwelcome among the sprawling populace, seen as another immigrant beggar taking up space. Steelhead is smart and charismatic, so we watch him gather a group of fellow immigrants and, almost inadvertently, create a new gang and fortune of ill gotten gains. The story unfolds like an Asian Scarface, but without the malice. Steelhead really does have the best intentions, always keeping his new "family" safe and fed and always searching for his lost love when he can, but however you spin it, he is the head of a new crime outfit.

Before long, the established bosses take notice and try and drop the hammer on Steelhead's merry thieves. Now the blood and body parts begin to fly as we watch Steelhead's rise up the criminal ladder, all the while remembering what it cost him to get there. Jackie Chan's portrayal of this simple man who never wanted to be an underworld boss never ceases to be engaging. This level of intimacy with the character helps to grip the audience tightly, doing something you rarely see in a film. You actually care deeply for, what is essentially, the bad guy. Sure, you can argue he's the nicest of the bad guys, but there is no mistaking he has made choices that lead to people's deaths. We've watched Steelhead trying to utilize the resources available to someone living on the streets of Japan and see how easily success in a small criminal enterprise, even with good intentions, can lead to bloodshed. The once gentle man who only wanted a happy, simple life is now forced to consider that those around him might kill him if it serves their purposes. These are certainly themes we've seen in film before, but the execution is slick and extremely thoughtful with acting performances you'll remember. The result is a gritty crime drama that never apologizes for its characters and maintains multiple levels of storytelling without losing the audience. That is an accomplishment in itself.

Admittedly, I have probably only seen half a dozen Jackie Chan films, so it is only from my own limited perspective that I say The Shinjuku Incident may be the best film I've ever seen him in. It is certainly far superior to, say, Rumble in the Bronx and similar martial arts action bonanzas we've had in American theaters. It is also MILES better than the Rush Hour series! Unfortunately, the film only got a tiny theatrical release, which has now ended, so you'll have to wait until Summer to catch it on DVD. Keep an eye out! After The Shinjuku Incident, you may never look at Jackie Chan the same way again.

Hello Rage Kitty




Driven to blinding rage over the dismemberment of Keroppi at the hands of the undead Black Lantern Batz Maru, Hello Kitty finds new life in the Red Lantern Corps!! Now a warm, red glow fills the spot where her gentle little heart used to beat and the blood of her anger burns away the unclean evils of the Sanrioverse. Only the combined might of Yellow Lantern Kuromi, Green Lantern Monkichi and the Pink Lantern Sugarbunnies can dissuade Hello Rage Kitty from her unbridled wrath long enough the send Black Batz Maru back to his eternal rest.

Of course this is all in fun, but what an awesome one shot comic it would make!

Monday, March 29, 2010

Iron Man 2 Kid's Choice Awards TV Spot

Just a liiiiiittle bit more to see in this new TV spot for all those Iron Man fanatics.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

See More of The Last Airbender in Japanese trailer

Courtesy of Comingsoon!



Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a brutal war against the others. A century has passed with no hope in sight to change the path of this destruction. Caught between combat and courage, Aang (Noah Ringer) discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Aang teams with Katara (Nicola Peltz), a Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka (Jackson Rathbone), to restore balance to their war-torn world.

Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film “The Last Airbender” is the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to survive.

Still irritated by the whiter than white kids, but at this point, what can we do. If you haven't ever watched Avatar: The Last Airbender, you owe it to yourself to jump head first into the greatest cartoon series ever created immediately! For more on the new film, hit up http://www.thelastairbendermovie.com .

Friday, March 26, 2010

24 No Mo


My most favorite geek on the planet, Mary Lynn Rajskub (Chloe on 24), just gave a Tweet about 24 ending this season. It's over, folks. I guess I'll just have to shine my love down on Pauley on NCSI from now on.

One of the most innovative and acclaimed dramas on television, 24 returns for a remarkable eighth season. The suspenseful series has been nominated for a total of 68 Emmy awards, winning for Outstanding Drama Series in 2006. Over the course of seven seasons, Sutherland has garnered seven Emmy nominations and one win for Outstanding Lead Actor; while Season Seven co-star Cherry Jones earned an Emmy nomination for her highly praised work as PRESIDENT ALLISON TAYLOR.

Season Eight promises to combine the show's unique, trend-setting format with compelling new elements, including a new setting, new threats and new cast members. Follow JACK BAUER through another astonishing day.

Drink it in while you can.

15 Second Reviews: Hot Tub Time Machine & How to Train Your Dragon




Hot Tub Time Machine: Man Ass Ho! Here's a new buddy comedy sending friends spiraling to the 80's to screw up the time line and ultimately make their lives better (awesome premise), spending much of the time trying to be The Hangover with homo-erotic gags that fall flat. Still a hysterical movie but with dead spots and not as funny as THEY think it is. Worth a watch.







How to Train Your Dragon: When is the last time you went to an animated movie and went WOA over the visuals? No, Avatar doesn't count. Dragon is smart, funny and fast paced with enough action to make your World of Warcraft buddies spit their pop out and enough heart to make your date go AWW very often. Maybe a little dark for a G rated crowd, but still an excellent film. SEE IT IN 3D!!

The Plenty of Fish Conspiracy

Maybe Conspiracy is a strong word, but you'd think the people behind this popular free dating website would give their members a break and find some other companies to advertise. Who takes up the bulk of it now? PAY DATING SITES!! I could be wrong and they are just porn sites, as you might think by the look of the images they choose for their lead ins.

So you are a man looking for a woman on Plenty of Fish. You click on your inbox and above your messages are two lines of thumbnails for the pretty ladies in your area, completely chosen at random. Enticing, yes? Next to them...two adds for pay dating/porn sites featuring gargantuanly boobed women with tiny little waist lines AKA the "ideal woman" or so modern media would have you think. Here's a perfect example...

So my Friday moan is this. Plenty of Fish, you aren't doing your members any favors with these adverts right next to the REAL women. If your goal is to make them look less appealing in comparison, then good job. Lord knows what the guy pics look like when someone searches for men. 12 pack abs and a bulge in tight jeans that looks like he's captured a glow worm? I'm in trouble.

Your Robot Chicken Minute: The Dark Cristal

OK this one is more like 2 minutes. Sue me. It's sooooo worth it.

Potter, Obama and Grimes Report For Guardians of the Globe

OK ...Not really. Apparently Image Comics felt left out of the Marvel VS DC wars and decided to take a pot shot at Marvel's I Am An Avenger promo campaign, first with some straight up spoof ads, and then with an unveil of their real team.

Invincible is off fighting the Viltrumite War, so who's watching the shop while he's away? GUARDIANS OF THE GLOBE, a new six-issue miniseries coinciding with INVINCIBLE: The Viltrumite War, tells Earth's story.















In GUARDIANS OF THE GLOBE -- cowritten by superstar Robert Kirkman (Invincible, The Walking Dead, The Astounding Wolf-Man) and Benito Cereno (Invincible Presents: Atom Eve, Invincible Presents: Atom Eve & Rex Splode) and drawn by gifted newcomer Ransom Getty -- heroes both familiar and new struggle to protect Earth in Invincible's absence.

"Needless to say, Invincible, Spawn, Rick Grimes, President Obama, and a certain boy wizard aren't GUARDIANS OF THE GLOBE," jokes Robert Kirkman. "The teasers released this week have been all in fun, but next week's teasers will get down to business, revealing who's a Guardian. Invincible's absence due to the Viltrumite War has left people vulnerable, and GUARDIANS OF THE GLOBE will answer the question, 'What's up on Earth?'"






GUARDIANS OF THE GLOBE, a six-issue miniseries written by Robert Kirkman and Benito Cereno and drawn by Ransom Getty, will start its run in August 2010.

SOTA's Mini Key Humping Robot

SOTA just posted images of their long awaited Humping Robot from Robot Chicken, who doesn't exactly have humping action anymore...unless you do it yourself.

This Articulated Humping Robot Keychain/Action Figure can be dangled from keys, purses, backpacks, or whatever you darn well please. And when he's not dangling you can pose him however you like. We've collected a few images of him doing what he does best. You should be seeing him in fine retailers in the 3rd quarter of 2010. 12 dollars a hump.

So, if the robot is slightly larger than a coffee mug, that would ALMOST put him in scale with Hasbro's new Iron Man movie action figure line! Keep one of those spots in the hall of armors opened! Now where do I get a scale washing machine...

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Thundercats Quarter Scale Statues On The Way

Pop Culture Shock Collectibles are pleased to announce they are the newest licensor for the wildly popular 80’s cartoon Thundercats! This licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Consumer Products will bring 1/4 scale mixed media statues to hardcore collector’s homes in 2010.

Pop Culture Shock has made a name for themselves with their Street Fighter™ and Darkstalkers™ statue lines, distributed through Sideshow Collectibles and Diamond Distribution. The 1/4 scale mixed media series offers highly detailed sculpting, beautiful paints and cloth costumes on figures 17” and larger providing a stunning collection for the most discriminating fan. The Thundercats line will adopt this same amazing quality.

“It should come as no surprise that I’m a big fan of 80’s properties” stated Jerry Macaluso, President and Founder of Pop Culture Shock Collectibles. “Street Fighter™ allowed me to bring iconic characters to people’s homes in the most striking format I could conceive. Now, Thundercats will get the star treatment once again that this killer animation classic deserves. We are extremely excited to be working closely with Warner Bros. Consumer Products on this project and can’t wait to show fans of the series what they will soon be able to bring home.”

For more info and future news, check out http://www.popcultureshocktoys.com/ and http://blog.popcultureshocktoys.com/

Iron Man: Extremis Motion Comic Trailer

Experience Iron Man in a whole new way - IRON MAN: EXTREMIS Motion Comic. From the story by Warren Ellis & Adi Granov, this incredible epic blends seamless motion, dynamic voice acting, and stunning special effects, bringing to life the story that redefined Iron Man for the 21st Century. Now you can get an exclusive sneak peek at this breathtaking visual breakthrough in motion comics!



Tony Stark (AKA Iron Man) faces his greatest threat ever-a terrorist transformed into an unstoppable force with the powerful bio-engineered Extremis super-soldier serum! Now Tony Stark redefines Iron Man's mission for the 21st century, setting the Armored Avenger on a new direction that'll alter his life forever...if he can find a way to defeat a modern day nightmare!

Featuring groundbreaking animation and special effects never before seen in a motion comic, IRON MAN: EXTREMIS will leave your jaws on the floor!

IRON MAN: EXTREMIS will be available for download on iTunes, Zune, and Xbox, with new episodes available bi-weekly through June.

Each of the six episodes is only $1.99, with an extra sized premiere running nearly 20 minutes long! Get all six episodes for the can't miss season pass priced at $9.99!

"IRON MAN: EXTREMIS is one of the pre-eminent Iron Man stories, thanks to the amazing work of Warren Ellis and Adi Granov," said Marvel Editor-In-Chief Joe Quesada. "Just as the IRON MAN: EXTREMIS comic book forever changed how we see Iron Man, the motion comic adaptation represents the next evolution of the medium."

Updated! DC Unlimited God of War 3 Action Figures

Just a quick update on the action figure line we couldn't show you at US Toy Fair 2010. DC takes a crack at God of War and will deliver more than just a series of Kratos figure! Nothing against NECA, but now you'll be able to add a cast of characters to their killer action figure line. WIN WIN!

The God of War III game finds Kratos raining carnage and destruction upon the Gods who have betrayed him and the entire Ancient Greek world. Armed with his deadly double-chained blades, Kratos will take on mythology’s darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles on his merciless quest to destroy Olympus and the mighty Zeus himself. The Series 1 wave of figures will include:

Hercules: 7.5” h
Zeus: 6.15” h
Kratos: 5.5” h
Hades: 6.5” h















NOTE: Pics are NOT from DC Direct. Just wanted to give you an idea of what to expect.

Got to love when they make figures in scale with each other! Unfortunately, NECA's Kratos is 7 inches, like all their other horror and video game pieces, so the rest of this cast may not be as menacing as they could be, but beggars can't be choosers, eh?

UPDTAE: HA! looks like I was pretty damn close on my look and pose picks for the line. Here are the early figure shots...

Meet Royce from Predators

Honestly, like Edgar Wright, you say the name Robert Rodriguez and I'm there. Even Spy Kids. Now the man who loves monsters sets his sights on the Predator franchise with a pseudo-reboot of the original...

Predators, a bold new chapter in the Predator universe, shot under the creative auspices of Robert Rodriguez, stars Adrien Brody as Royce, a mercenary who reluctantly leads a group of elite warriors who come to realize they've been brought together on an alien planet ... as prey. With the notable exception of a disgraced physician, they are all cold-blooded killers - mercenaries, Yakuza, convicts, death squad members - human "predators" that are now being systematically hunted and eliminated by a new breed of alien Predators.


Predators Character Profile - Royce
Uploaded by dreadcentral. - Classic TV and last night's shows, online.

We caught up with Alice Braga at the Repo Men press junket who said Brody stepped up to the challenge, beefing up for the role and giving her a run for her money for the title of "biggest gun on the set." She also mentioned that it would be extremely difficult for this movie to get a PG13 rating, as the content is so dark. July 7th will be here before you know it, and then we'll find out for ourselves!

TRON Legacy Animated German Poster

Our buddy Frosty at Collider got the tip on this killer new poster for TRON: Legacy, straight out of Germany. So..It's official. Everyone on the planet has cooler posters for American movies than we do. WHEN DID THAT START HAPPENING?!



Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), the tech savy 27 year old son of Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), looks into his father's disappearance and finds himself pulled into the digital world of TRON where his father has been living for 25 years. Along with Kevin's loyal confidant Quorra (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a life and death journey of escape across a visually stunning cyber universe that has become far more advanced and exceedingly dangerous....not to mention looks MINDBLOWING in IMAX 3D!



TRON Legacy comes to theaters this December. That's a looong wait my geeky friends.

Prepare for Scott Pilgrim Vs The World Awesomeness

It's a blog. We can make up words here. So...do you like comics? Old school video games like Street Fighter? Ever fall in love with a little movie called Shaun of the Dead? Then, my friends, THIS movie is about to go on your "Most Anticipated" list.

Meet charming and jobless Scott Pilgrim (Michael Cera). A bass guitarist for garage band Sex Bob-omb, the 22-year-old has just met the girl of his dreams...literally. The only catch to winning Ramona Flowers (Mary Elizabeth Winstead)? Her seven evil exes are coming to kill him. Genre-smashing filmmaker Edgar Wright (Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead) tells the amazing story of one romantic slacker's quest to power up with love in Scott Pilgrim vs. the World.

Scott Pilgrim has never had a problem getting a girlfriend. It's getting rid of them that proves difficult. From the girl who kicked his heart's ass--and now is back in town--to the teenage distraction he's trying to shake when Ramona rollerblades into his world, love hasn't been easy. He soon discovers, however, his new crush has the most unusual baggage of all: a nefarious league of exes controls her love life and will do whatever it takes to eliminate him as a suitor.
































As Scott gets closer to Ramona, he must face an increasingly vicious rogues' gallery from her past--from infamous skateboarders to vegan rock stars and fearsome identical twins. And if he hopes to win his true love, he must vanquish them all before it really is game over.

NOTE: The crowd pic at the concert seemed to have some Green/Red Technology going on and I tried it with the glasses and it MIGHT be a little 3D...or I just need to eat something.

I have a sudden urge to watch Josie and the Pussycats, which I am unashamed to say is my favorite fictional band movie of all time. For more Pilgrim madness, READ THE COMICS NOW and visit http://www.scottpilgrimthemovie.com.