Monday, June 30, 2014

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Toys R Us Brings Maleficent, Power Rangers, My Little Pony, Star Wars & More

Back into the San Diego Comic-Con 2014 Exclusives...which I expect we'll be updating nearly every day from here on out! Toys R Us, ever with their finger on the pulse of collectors, always bring an excellent selection of exclusives that make the Entertainment Earth booth (#2343) one of the most visited locations at the con. This year, those exclusives include must-have items you'll find yourself hoping are just advance release items, giving you a chance to snap them up at a later date at your local TRU store! Let's check out the goods...

SDCC 2014: WBTV/DC Entertainment Saturday Night with Gotham, Flash, Constantine & More

Get ready for a spectacular Saturday night at San Diego Comic-Con 2014, courtesy of Warner Bros. Television (WBTV) and DC Entertainment (DCE). For the first time ever at SDCC, WBTV and DCE will present a three-hour special event on Saturday night, July 26, in HALL H, designed specifically for DC Comics fans and featuring some of DC Comics’ greatest characters. Kicking off the exclusive evening is the world premiere public screening of the highly anticipated new drama series Gotham (the only screening of Gotham at this year’s Comic-Con), followed by a screening of the complete pilot of new action-drama The Flash, and exclusive video presentations from returning hit Arrow and new thriller Constantine. Cast members and producers from all four shows will make special appearances throughout the night.

Big Hero 6 Character Posters & Further Details Revealed

We've not heard much from the folks at Disney regarding their first Marvel Comics animated adaptation. First and foremost, I think we'd all like to see how they plan to tie this cartoony world to the massive blockbuster live-action films they've been making bank on since day one. To NOT do that is just an insane notion I can't even comprehend, but they keep saying the film is "inspired by" the comic, which is causing my hopes for any Marvel tie-ins to shrink. Today, sadly, we do not have news on that front, BUT we CAN show you the SIX from the title, courtesy of some character posters that flopped online last night courtesy of JPosters.

You've already met Hiro Hamada and his buddy Baymax. Rounding out the team are Fred Zilla, Honey Lemon, Wasabi No Ginger and super-speedster Gogo Tomago.

Saturday, June 28, 2014

ABC's "THE QUEST"

This has the potential to be freakin HYSTERICAL. Say hello to your new guilty pleasure Reality TV show. One girl even showed up dressed as Velma from Scooby Doo. I can't handle it.

On July 31, 2014 at 8pm,  ABC will premiere THE QUEST, a groundbreaking new reality television series from the executive producers behind such television and motion picture hits as The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, The Amazing Race and Queer Eye.

Guillermo del Toro Promises More Pacific Rim On The Way

In a quick, succinct video message from Guillermo del Toro, we are promised the following...

- A Pacific Rim Cartoon Series!!!
- A continuation of the Pacific Rim comic book series!
- A NEW PACIFIC RIM MOVIE IN 2017!!!

Friday, June 27, 2014

Myx TV Makes a “Call to Cosplay”

Myx TV, the only English-language multicultural Asian American entertainment network in the United States, will premiere its newest original reality series, “Call to Cosplay,” on June 30, 2014 at 8/7c.

Cosplay, a term meaning ‘costume play’ is a popular subculture where participants dress-up and role play various characters from anime, manga, comic books and more. “Call to Cosplay” combines the world of cosplay with all of the exciting elements of a competition design program. Each episode of the series features two cosplayers competing for cash prizes. Contestants are assigned a theme, budget, mystery element and less than eight hours to create a character and costume from scratch. Costumes and performances are then judged by a panel of experts and scored on four main criteria: authenticity, creativity, “wow” factor and craftsmanship.

A New Trailer for "Into The Storm"

You are about to forget all about that little movie called "Twister".

In the span of a single day, the town of Silverton is ravaged by an unprecedented onslaught of tornadoes. The entire town is at the mercy of the erratic and deadly cyclones, even as storm trackers predict the worst is yet to come. Most people seek shelter, while others run towards the vortex, testing how far a storm chaser will go for that once-in-a-lifetime shot. Told through the eyes and lenses of professional storm chasers, thrill-seeking amateurs, and courageous townspeople, “Into the Storm” throws you directly into the eye of the storm to experience Mother Nature at her most extreme.

The New York Asian Film Festival Begins TODAY!

The Film Society of Lincoln Center and Subway Cinema in association with Japan Society announce the full lineup today for the 2014 New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF), which will take place June 27 – July 14. The festival of popular Asian cinema will showcase 60 feature films, including 1 major international premiere, 20 North American premieres, 6 U.S. premieres, and 11 more films making their New York City debuts. The festival will be attended by over 20 star filmmakers and celebrity guests traveling from Australia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

Blue Ruin on DVD & Blu-Ray July 22

*A Heather Buckley Top Pick!

Anchor Bay Entertainment and RADiUS-TWC are proud to announce the home entertainment release of Jeremy Saulnier’s highly praised sophomore effort, BLUE RUIN. The film world premiered in the Directors’ Fortnight section of the 2013 Cannes Film Festival where it took home the esteemed FIPRESCI prize. Audiences can own the revenge thriller on DVD and Blu-Ray™ on July 22, 2014 (click HERE to pre-order!)

BLUE RUIN is a classic American revenge story, following a mysterious outsider whose quiet life is turned upside down when he returns to his childhood home, determined to carry out an act of vengeance. His inexperience as an assassin lands him in a brutal fight to protect his estranged family in this critically-acclaimed new thriller by director Jeremy Saulnier (MURDER PARTY). Starring Macon Blair, Devin Ratray, Amy Hargreaves and Eve Plumb.

The Sad, Bloody Tale of ROBOCOP Continues!

Ah yes..the world's most well known emo-robot returns in an ongoing series from BOOM! Studios, picking up right from where the original films left off.


Here at BOOM! Studios, the classic 1987 RoboCop film holds a special place in our hearts, so we’re taking the next step to give fans an all-new, ongoing RoboCop series set in that very world. Writer Joshua Williamson (Nailbiter, Ghosted) and artist Carlos Magno (PLANET OF THE APES, DEATHMATCH) craft a story of crime and corruption that fans of Gotham Central, Stray Bullets, and Incognito will enjoy, bringing the grittiness of RoboCop and Old Detroit to four-color life with an intensity never seen before.

SDCC 2014: Knopf Doubleday Signings, Giveaways & More

Random House’s Knopf Doubleday group returns to this year’s San Diego Comic-Con (July 24-27, plus preview night on July 23), and we would love to see you there. We are booth #1515, along with the other Random House groups. A reminder that Knopf Doubleday is comprised of Pantheon & Schocken Books, Alfred A. Knopf, Doubleday, and Vintage Anchor Books.

This year’s appearing authors include: debut Pantheon graphic novelist Michael Cho, author of SHOPLIFTER (September 2014); Pantheon/Vintage Anchor novelist Charles Yu, author of HOW TO LIVE SAFELY IN A SCIENCE FICTIONAL UNIVERSE and SORRY PLEASE THANK YOU, whose new novel THE BOOK OF WISHING (2016) is already in the works; Doubleday novelists Chuck Palahniuk, author of BEAUTIFUL YOU (October 2014) and Daniel H. Wilson, author of ROBOGENESIS (June 2014); and Knopf author Anne Rice, author of PRINCE LESTAT (October 2014).

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Pop Culture Shock Collectibles Talking Catbug

Pop Culture Shock Collectibles (Booth #4437) jumps into the San Diego Comic-Con Exclusives arena with one powerful contender...CATBUG!! This ridiculously adorable buddy from the Pendleton Ward (Adventure Time) created "Bravest Warriors" cartoon series can now be cuddled, laughed with, or beaten with a stick on your mean days....but you'd have to be pretty mean!! WHO could beat such a cute face?! Check out some of Catbug's shining moments...

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Artist Eric So Takes on Marv of Sin City

The masters of two mediums come together with an all-new, limited-edition vinyl figure of Sin City’s beloved brute, Marv! This unique interpretation of Marv was created by Eric So, a master of modern design and a leader in the Hong Kong designer-toy movement. With the guidance of Frank Miller, So has sculpted a thirteen-inch vinyl figure that is unlike any that has come before it.

While best known for his groundbreaking toy designs, Eric So is also an accomplished designer in many other areas, such as men’s fashion and accessories. He is a legend in his native Hong Kong, and has made a name for himself worldwide.

In the same spirit as his previous collaboration with Dark Horse (a vinyl figure of Mike Mignola’s Hellboy) or his Nike-commissioned statue of Michael Jordan, So favors a humorous and cartoonish approach over realism. While Marv is depicted in his customary trench coat, he has been transformed through Eric So’s unique approach to angles and features. Still, the influence of Frank Miller’s signature style shines through.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

FANTASIA Announces It's First Wave of 2014 Programming

The 18th annual Fantasia International Film Festival is gearing up to take Montreal by storm with three weeks of inspiration and excitement starting July 17 until August 5, 2014. Our full 2014 lineup of programming and special events will be revealed shortly, but in the meantime, here’s an early First Wave Announcement of several selected highlights and info to whet your appetite.
 

UNVEILING OUR 2014 POSTER ART: FANTASIA PAYS TRIBUTE TO THREE LEGENDARY FIGURES OF THE FANTASTIC

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Funko's Massive POP! Filled Lineup

This one will be a "work-in-progress"...for the foreseeable future. Funko is a company that likes to roll out their 50 odd San Diego Comic-Con Exclusives sloooooowly, and so, for the sake of getting on top of that pile and remaining there, we'll drop this article and reload it with more bits as they are announced!

That said, Funko comes out of the gate strong with pop culture collectibles torn straight from the frames of one of my favorite movies...GHOSTBUSTERS!! **BEWARE some TV spoilers below!!!**

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

New Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Trailer Gives Best Look at Shredder & Splinter Yet


Let's talk about this on-again-off-again love affair we are having with the new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. We heard they were making one with fully CGI Turtles. Love. We heard Bay was involved and he wanted to make them aliens. Off. We heard Megan Fox was going to be April. Off off. We heard they ditched the alien thing. 20% Love. We saw turtle pants, turtle tech, an oddball gladiator loin cloth and the million knives of Shredder. This one split the planet right down the middle. Now...three trailers later, I'm learning to ignore the little things and embrace the full-on comic book nature of this film, much like I did The Amazing Spider-Man 2.

Let's start by watching the new trailer...and then we'll tear it apart...

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: NECA's Lineup: Nightmare on Elm Street, Predator, Pacific Rim and Marvel/DC Comics

Now we're getting a rhythm going...which will all fall apart when someone turns the valve and a deluge of San Diego Comic-Con news and exclusives announcements starts flooding the internet! Until that time, we will smile and do our best to list all the toys there are to buy and events there are to attend as completely as we can. When the storm hits, we will be a mess. No apologies.

NECA have been DESTROYING all comers in the world of pop culture action figure creation, making dreams come true daily with a world conquering army of action figures you can't say no to. Their San Diego Comic-Con 2014 Exclusives lineup is equally impressive, building on those lines you've been obsessed with all year and adding must-have items to the list. Let's check out the goodies...

Monday, June 23, 2014

The Real Faces Behind "Deliver Us From Evil"

We see the tag line "based on true events" so often, I feel we've become desensitized to it. Often, we imagine those events were quite normal in contrast to the fantastical happenings on film...and a lot of the time we are probably right. A recent film even stated it was based on an experiment that took place once upon a time! An experiment..not what followed..not events that were ignited while the experiment took place....just the concept of the experiment itself! Flimsy. Today, we meet Ralph Sarchie, former Police Detective, now full time Demonologist. For Ralph, scenes from horror films took place every day as he protected the public from murderers and thieves. His life as a Demonologist has revealed horrors that might make you swear off creepy movies all together.

SDCC 2014: Get Your Kilt On at Comic-Con with Outlander

WHAT: The premiere of the highly anticipated STARZ Original series “Outlander” will be held at a red carpet gala event during San Diego Comic-Con 2014.  Cast and creators including Executive Producer Ronald D. Moore, author Diana Gabaldon, Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Tobias Menzies, Graham McTavish and Lotte Verbeek  will be in attendance and do a panel session. CLICK HERE to enter to win tickets!

WHEN: Friday July 25th at the Spreckels Theater
121 Broadway San Diego, CA 92101

ABOUT: The “Outlander” series spans the genres of romance, science fiction, history, and adventure in one epic tale. The series, adapted from Diana Gabaldon’s international best-selling books by Ronald D. Moore (“Battlestar Galactica,” “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,” “Star Trek: The Next Generation”), follows the story of Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), a married combat nurse from 1945, who is mysteriously swept back in time to 1743. Upon her arrival, she is immediately thrown into an unknown world where her life is threatened. But when she is forced to marry Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan), a chivalrous and romantic young Scottish warrior, a passionate relationship is ignited. Now, Claire's heart is torn between two vastly different men in two irreconcilable lives.

The Slap


William Shatner Brown Bagging It

Would I watch William Shatner get drunk and ask potentially hysterical questions? Yes. Yes I would. How soon til we have our ShatTV??!!

William Shatner’s web series, “Brown Bag Wine Tasting,” will premiere on Ora.TV Monday, June 23rd with Food Network chef and cookbook author Alton Brown as his guest. In this first episode, Brown talks about his greatest influences while cooking for Shatner and doing a blind wine tasting – describing the flavors using only cooking terms. 

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Mattel's Lineup: Monster High, Batman, Star Wars, Masters of the Universe & More

Holy Damn. Amid the trickle of San Diego Comic-Con exclusives news, MATTEL THROWS DOWN THE GAUNTLET!! ...and pretty much says "top that, mofos." I think only Funko can go head to head with the likes of Hasbro and Mattel and outmatch them on sheer numbers alone. Until Funko unleashes their hoards, we've got the promise of an amazing new Batmobile, Hordak and his Imp and a new Monster High couple to keep us warm. Let's dive right in...

Sunday, June 22, 2014

New Character Art from Guardians of the Galaxy, The Sakaaran Mystery & A Possible Cartoon

 

With toys already hitting store pegs and multiple trailers dropping across the planet, it seems baffling that people still claim they haven't seen the WHOLE look for each of the Guardians of the Galaxy characters! Welp, Marvel is ready to fix that. From points unknown comes new character art giving you a nice head-to-toe image of your assholes of the universe! These could prove particularly useful to cosplayers...

"Adventure Time" Goes DIY with Special Zine Issue

KaBOOM!, an award-winning imprint of publisher BOOM! Studios, and Cartoon Network Enterprises, the licensing and merchandising arm of the network, are pleased to announce that July’s ADVENTURE TIME #30 will be a special stand-alone issue that honors the thriving DIY (“Do It Yourself”), mini-comics culture, printed on uncoated paper and made to look like a homemade zine from the citizens of Ooo. This issue features a cavalcade of indie creators, including longtime ADVENTURE TIME writer Ryan North and artists Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb; plus artists Liz Prince (Alone Forever), Carey Pietsch, Rebecca Tobin, Kat Philbin,T. Zysk (ADVENTURE TIME), Missy Pena (BRAVEST WARRIORS), Jesse Tise, Ian McGinty (ADVENTURE TIME, BRAVEST WARRIORS), David Cutler, and Yumi Sakugawa (I Think I Am in Friend-Love with You).

Popples Return with Spin Master

Saban Brands announced today a new licensing partnership with Spin Master Ltd., Canada’s largest children’s toy and entertainment company, who will serve as global master toy licensee for the company’s iconic and re-imagined Popples brand. Slated to launch in 2015, Popples is a new animated children’s series based on the nostalgic characters from the popular 1980’s toy line and television series. Spin Master will produce a full range of children’s toys including small dolls, collectible figures, playsets and plush to hit the U.S. market in 2015, followed by an expanded international program in 2016.

“We are thrilled that Spin Master, a global leader in the toy industry, will serve as the master toy partner for our Popples property,” said Elie Dekel, President of Saban Brands. “With a contemporary design, all-new characters and a wonderful line of toys, an entirely new generation of kids will get the chance to enjoy the hilarious, adorable and wacky adventures of the lovable Popples.”

Friday, June 20, 2014

Skeleton Warriors Fight For Resurrection on Kickstarter

In a world where a pony evolved into the daughter of Cthulhu can be granted life via Kickstarter, ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE! That said, surely Skeleton Warriors can make a HUGE return, right? Waaaay ahead of its time, this 90's cartoon we like to call "Harryhausen's Wet Dream" was short lived, but the toy line it spawned was far more magnificent than most around it. Now, the fine folks at October Toys think it's time the creatures of bone and awesome get a second chance to haunt your toy shelves. PREPARE FOR THE RETURN OF SKELETON WARRIORS!!!

SDCC 2014 Exclusives: Monogram's Lineup: Nightmare Before Christmas, Kingdom Hearts & More

Back into what is shaping up to be another BEAST of a San Diego Comic-Con Exclusives list!! Monogram (Booth #3645) is another company with their finger on the pulse of modern pop culture trends, while their heart strings are pulled by our favorite childhood comic books and all things Disney. Let's see what they've got on tap this year...

SDCC 2014 Exclusive: Huckleberry's Batman 66 Print, Minions, Kaiju, Guardians of the Galaxy & More

San Diego Comic-Con!!! It's almost "Start Panicking" time for those without concrete plans, whether that be the quest for a hotel room, finding airfare under 700 dollars, or the seemingly straight forward task of finding an outlet that will pay for you to be there! Whatever your situation, know we are with you...with 13 or so years of SDCC pain/pleasure under our belts. I guess that's why we do our best to run down every awesome thing you'll find at the show, before it hits! You've got to make the most of that massive expense, and we'll help you do just that.

Once again, our great friend Hugo sets up shop with the Huckleberry crew (Booth #3449), who always have an excellent array of new properties and classic licenses from all points of pop culture. Where else could you buy a Paranorman figure, an HR Puffinstuff print and a chubby little Deadpool phone cover all in the same place? This year's lineup is similarly geektastic...

Hot Toys Maleficent 6th Scale Collectible Figure

“Well, well…How Wonderful.” You know the tale, now find out the truth. Disney’s newest movie – Maleficent has been highly successful in box office around the world since its release! The tale of Sleeping Beauty is re-imagined and told from the perspective of the Mistress of All Evil who is portrayed by the one and only Angelina Jolie and her performance has been praised by critics and fans. To celebrate the movie’s success, Hot Toys is delighted to present the 1/6th scale Maleficent Collectible Figure amid fans’ anticipation!

The movie-accurate Maleficent Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Angelina Jolie as Maleficent in the movie which features a detailed head sculpt with iconic horns, elegantly tailored costume and accessories. Fans of this famous fairy tale and Angelina Jolie don’t miss the chance to pre-order this stylish collectible figure!

Thursday, June 19, 2014

"Dear White People" In Theaters October 17th


Nickelodeon Reveals Merch Lineup for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2014

Nickelodeon today announced the full merchandising roster for the highly anticipated Paramount Pictures theatrical movie, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, directed by Jonathan Liebesman, written by Josh Appelbaum and André Nemec and Evan Daugherty and produced by Michael Bay, arriving in theaters August 8. A full lineup of products inspired by the film will be available this summer through the holiday season, bringing to life the film’s thrilling action and adventure. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is hotter than ever, and Paramount Pictures’ upcoming film is poised to be a smash hit,” said Pam Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer and President of Consumer Products, Nickelodeon. “Our licensees and retail partners have done an incredible job of adapting the movie into experiences and products that encompass the action and adventure of the franchise, enabling Turtles super-fans to live out their most memorable movie moments.”

Hulk and the Agents of SMASH Clip: Baby Monsters On The Run

Usually, when Marvel sends along a clip from a cartoon, it is pretty clear cut. This week...not so much. I'm going to assume Hulk bumbles into The Save Land where a pack of Dragon-babies accept him as their mother....but one sees something horrible....around Hulk's green back side!!  Dun dun dun duuuun. Yes, childish, but the world is cruel and I have to find happiness where ever I can. LOOK AT HIS TERRIFIED LITTLE EYES!! This can not be unseen.



Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Falling Skies: Season 4 Preview

In a world where aliens have come to take control of the planet and either enslave or destroy the populace, a relatively quiet walk across the country side where nothing is on fire can be taken for granted! Of course, the fires are lovely in the crisp winter months. The theme of "Falling Skies" season 4 seems to be evolution. The show adopts the "several stories happening concurrently" model that has proven so successful with "The Walking Dead" and "Game of Thrones". This allows for maximum storytelling with minimum time (most likely another 10 episode season).

We flash forward several months very quickly. From here on in, it's going to be very difficult to give details without spoiling the whole set-up, so I'll be careful not to mention much beyond the imagery you've glimpsed in the trailers! Just be warned, there will be some mild spoilers ahead. 

Tales from Space: Mutant Blobs Attack

It’s time for Mutant Blob fans to exact revenge upon the human race as DrinkBox Studios releases its critically acclaimed action-platformer, Tales from Space: Mutant Blobs Attack, on the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft.

Mutant Blobs Attack comes to North American PS3™s and European ones today. The game also launches on Xbox 360 in both regions, published by indie game publisher Midnight City. The game has an ESRB rating of E10+ and PEGI rating 7.

Saban Presents Power Rangers Dino Charge

The Licensing Expo is in full swing now, which would explain the mind boggling array of news hitting from all points. Idle Hands will be on watch, grabbing the geekiest bits! For the non-Ranger obsessed (who already know all about this show), we are happy to introduce you to the newest incarnation of Saban's Power Rangers for 2015! ....though it's kind of hard to top a crew that could turn into your favorite Rangers from any era. They should have just dropped the mic and left the room after that one.

On prehistoric Earth, an alien entrusted powerful Energems to 12 dinosaurs for protection, but when the dinosaurs went extinct, the Energems were lost. Now an intergalactic bounty hunter is determined to reclaim the gems and destroy the planet. A new team of Power Rangers must fins the lost Energems and use their Dino Chargers to power an arsenal of dino-fueled weapons, zords and Megazords to save the world.

Prepare for Hello Kitty DC Comics Super Villains

Warner Bros. Consumer Products EMEA, in partnership with DC Entertainment, continues to build on the success of the brand collaboration between Sanrio’s Hello Kitty and DC Comics by today unveiling strong new creative artwork based on some of DC Entertainment’s most iconic female comic book Super-Villains. 

The new DC Comics Super-Villains series, featuring Hello Kitty styled as Catwoman, Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn, will target girls, women and collectors through a range of licensed merchandise including apparel, accessories and footwear, stationery, publishing, personal care, branded food products and promotions. The full character style guide will be showcased to partners at the upcoming Licensing EXPO to attract best-in-class licensees and retailers for EMEA distribution.

Boom! Studios Six-Gun Gorilla Trade Reviewed

I remember the time of the monkey...when all you had to do to sell a comic or cartoon was put a monkey on the poster and ..KaPow..Gold. These days, I'm told the giant gorilla on the cover of "Six-Gun Gorilla" may be hampering sales as readers most likely expect a gimmick book with a gun totin', wise crackin' ape at the center of the action. While that prospect does sound tedious, I'm happy to say THIS book offers so much more. The press blurb offers little insight, or deviation from your misconceptions...
Welcome to “the Blister” -- a bizarre other-world colonized by humans sometime in the 22nd century, which quickly became a hotly-contested source of fertile land and natural resources long ago exhausted on Earth. In this new frontier, a rogue gunslinger and his companion wander across a wilderness in the grips of a civil war, encountering lawlessness, natives, and perversions of civilization in a world at the crossroads between the past and the future. The fact that said gunslinger is a bio-surgically modified silverback gorilla toting a pair of enormous revolvers is neither here nor there.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Peanuts Signs Just Play as Master Toy Licensee

Peanuts Worldwide has signed Just Play as its master toy licensee to produce plush, figures, vehicles, play sets and role play toys for retail in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to Just Play and an existing figurine deal with Schleich, Peanuts has also added Hot Wheels for basic and collector cars; Nakajima for infant and specialty plush; and Palamon for Halloween costumes. Cra-Z-Art, a longtime Peanuts licensee that produces the classic Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine, has also expanded their license to include craft and activity sets.

“We are excited to be working with Just Play because we know their innovative and fun products will capture the playfulness of Peanuts for our new fans,” says Leigh Anne Brodsky, managing director of Peanuts Worldwide. “Being in the toy aisle is a key part of our strategy as we gear up for the Peanuts movie next year.”

This News Is Not For You: A Hasbro Story

I've been covering collectibles for somewhere in the neighborhood of 15 years, with 12 or so of them spent putting San Diego Comic-Con hours under my belt, so if that doesn't earn me a purple heart in the geek army, I don't know what would. In the past, when I've aired my grievances against companies, I've been called "arrogant" and "entitled" or even "elitist" so I'd like to put that out there from the get go. If I come off this way, just understand it comes from frustration. Frustration that 15 years of writing on the internet earns me nothing in the eyes of most industry executives and more often than not, puts me in the same cramped, hot room with 100 other individuals at events like Toy Fair where a fair deal of these folks pull out their camera phone to record the day. Do I think I am better than them? I do not, but I am certainly working harder than them, as are many other people in the room who showed up ready to take more than 20 pictures and spend the rest of their time trying to squeeze free samples from anyone who will listen. Sites like Cool Toy Review, Action Figure Insider and ToyNewsInternational show up ready to sweat, with very little time to take the 900 pictures their readers expect, patiently waiting for they guy with the massive iPad to finish his painfully slow sweep across the entire display. Most of us do this for little or nothing, and that is our choice, but we cross our fingers every day that the companies will make this job as easy as they possibly can. Often, they do not.

"Ultimate Spider-Man: Web Warriors" Premiering August 31st on Disney XD

Marvel's most popular super hero, Spider-Man, swings into a new season in "Marvel's Ultimate Spider-Man: Web Warriors," premiering SUNDAY, AUGUST 31 (9:00 a.m.) on the Marvel Universe programming block on Disney XD. Accompanied by Nova, Iron Fist, Power Man and White Tiger, Spider-Man and the team take on dangerous S.H.I.E.L.D. missions and encounter some of their most thrilling adventures yet.

The new season begins with Spider-Man accepting an invitation to become an Avenger. Alongside Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Hawkeye, Black Widow and Falcon, everyone’s favorite web-head gets one step closer to becoming the Ultimate Spider-Man!

Four Horsies of the Pocalypse Kickstarter Rapping Up


Just a quick notice that our friends at Bigshot Toyworks are preparing for THE END!!  Well..that's a double edged sword, isn't it? It's soon to be the end of their "Maddie", the loveable Cthulhu-esque horsie Kickstarter and the END OF ALL THINGS as she is born and enslaves the word...but really, would our lives be that different? More tentacles, to be sure...but not so different. Just thought we'd seize the opportunity to remind you that NOW is the time to jump on in and secure your figures...and further entice you with some limited edition figures that have been announced along the way...

Red Mighty Morphin Power Ranger Joins The 88th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

This Thanksgiving, the legendary Red Mighty Morphin Power Ranger will make his epic debut as he morphs into a giant helium balloon for the 88th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade® on Thursday, Nov. 27. Marking the first-ever Power Ranger balloon, the Red Ranger will captivate millions of spectators and television viewers nationwide as he flies across the skies of New York during the holiday event.

"We look forward to creating a larger than life Mighty Morphin Power Ranger balloon that will entertain generations of fans while sharing the Power Rangers core values of teamwork, responsibility and helping others," said Elie Dekel, President of Saban Brands. "Seeing the Red Mighty Morphin Power Ranger soar in the Macy's Parade will truly be legendary."

Announcing Breaking Bad TITANS "The Heisenberg Collection"

From Sony and Titan Merchandise, comes The Heisenberg Collection, celebrating the hit series Breaking Bad! This 12 piece set features mild mannered chemistry teacher Walter White as well as his murderous, drug dealing alter-ego Heisenberg, his naïve partner in crime Jesse Pinkman and a whole barrel full of friends and foes, including The Crystal Ship itself – The RV!

The set also includes Drug Kingpin Gus Fring in both his Cartel eliminating beige suit and his (spoiler alert) post explosion, exposed skull, tie-straightening outfit; his right-hand man Mike Erhmantraut; Walter White’s brother-in-law and determined DEA Agent Hank Schrader; the kleptomaniac and purple clad Marie Schrader; the breakfast loving Walt Jr. and, of course, everyone’s favourite crooked lawyer – Saul Goodman! “Better Call Saul!”

Monday, June 16, 2014

Director of Power Rangers Series Presents “GUNBLADE”

From the executive producer and director who brought adoring fans the hit popular series, “Power Rangers,” Koichi Sakamoto will bring to life the next generation of superheroes with a new action drama, “GUNBLADE.” The highly-anticipated show will be unveiled during the 2014 Licensing Expo at Mandalay Bay Convention Center on Tuesday, June 17.

During the three-day tradeshow, visitors of the Kocca booth will experience an exclusive eight-minute sneak preview of “GUNBLADE” and will also have the opportunity to interact with one of the superheroes.

Cartoon Network Announces the Return of The Powerpuff Girls

After the successful airing of the re-imagined special in January, Cartoon Network today announced the global return of one of its most beloved franchises, the Emmy®-winning, The Powerpuff Girls. Slated for a 2016 launch, this reboot will include an all-new television series produced by Cartoon Network Studios and a full licensing program that will roll out across all regions. The announcement was made today by Rob Sorcher, to kick off the 2014 Licensing Expo in Las Vegas.

“The original Powerpuff Girls was a franchise phenomenon for Cartoon Network, paving the way for a new generation of innovative storytellers and enthusiastic fans worldwide,” said Rob Sorcher, chief content officer, Cartoon Network.  “We are calling these girls back into action based upon an overwhelming demand for sugar, spice and Chemical X."

WB TV Gears Up for Licensing Expo 2014 with Flash, Gotham, Constantine & More

Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), on behalf of Warner Bros. Television (WBTV) and DC Entertainment, is thrilled to swoop into Licensing Expo 2014 with a powerhouse slate of primetime TV licensing offerings based on DC Comics’ and Vertigo’s pantheon of characters. Bringing fresh and innovative programming to fans, WBTV’s new DC Comics–based series “The Flash,” “Gotham,” “Constantine” and returning hit “Arrow,” along with new Vertigo-based series “iZOMBIE” will feature storylines and characters that will inspire an array of new products from licensing partners in every category.

Angry Birds Transformers Officially Announced!

Back in January we teased you with the mere mention of this techno-mash-up, which actually made more sense to us than Star Wars angry birds did...in some odd way. Now, on the eve of the Licensing show in Las Vegas and as the new film inches closer, Rovio is ready to let the information fly!

Autobirds, assemble! Rovio Entertainment and Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) are teaming up again to bring together two of the world’s largest and most popular entertainment brands and their fans. Angry Birds Transformers will come to life in multiple forms, including a mobile game, consumer licensed goods and a product line from Hasbro.

Sunday, June 15, 2014

SDCC 2014: Mezco's Full Exclusives Lineup: Breaking Bad, Sons of Anarchy, Universal Monsters & More

San Diego Comic-Con is heading towards us like a runaway freight train and try as we might to keep ourselves satiated with the dozen or so conventions that are happening every week, the UBERCON is still finding it's way into our daily conversations. Now Mezco take center stage to show off their hefty convention exclusives lineup packed with spooky children, killer bikers and the friendly town meth dealer. Add these to your shopping list...

Living Dead Dolls 16th Anniversary White Posey ($40): Brush off that grave dust and gather around out under the moonlight as Mezco reveals a new Living Dead Dolls Sumer Exclusive- 16th Anniversary White Posey. Just in time for her 16th birthday, Posey, one of the most popular Living Dead Dolls, gets a makeover with a new ghostly white look. Standing 10 inches tall, she comes complete with a white rose and a special poly resin tombstone. Posey come packaged in her own coffin with death certificate. The original Posey was introduced in Series 1, so it is fitting that during the 16th anniversary of the Living Dead Dolls she would rise from her crypt with a new look.

Happy Father's Day!



For the dads out there! For your bumps and bruises, hard work and time u spend with your younglings. Happy Father's Day!


Friday, June 13, 2014

SDCC 2014: Diamond Select Exclusives : Godzilla, X-Men, Star Wars & More

It's almost time for Comic-Con International in San Diego, and Diamond Select Toys will be hanging out at Booth 2607, showing off some cool new products and selling some amazingly cool toys! Check out the exclusives Diamond Select Toys, Diamond Comic Distributors, and various retailers around the show floor will be offering at SDCC!

Godzilla Burning Godzilla SDCC Exclusive Vinyl Bust Bank - $30.00 - Godzilla is more than just a giant lizard – he's also a walking nuclear reactor! This new, limited-edition vinyl bank of the King of All Monsters depicts him as he appeared in 1995's Godzilla vs. Destoroyah, when his atomic heart began to overheat. With an all-new black-and-orange color scheme, this 8-inch bust bank features collectible-quailty paint applications, as well as a coin slot on his back and an access door in the base. Limited to 1000 pieces. Packaged in a clear polybag. Sculpted by Gentle Giant!

Thursday, June 12, 2014

The Wonder Years Complete Series on DVD This Fall

The Internet is atwitter following the recent cast reunion shoot for THE WONDER YEARS COMPLETE SERIES, as stars Fred Savage, Danica McKellar and Jason Hervey all tweeted out behind-the-scenes photos.  Lifting back the veil of secrecy from the filming of cast interviews, the photos ratcheted up the excitement level for the multitude of fans who've been eagerly awaiting the release of the beloved, award-winning series - the most requested TV series never to be released to DVD.