SDCC 2018 Exclusive Reveal! Entertainment Earth Deadpool with Baby Cable!
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Entertainment Earth has a huge selection of exclusives at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con International. Now Marvelicious Toys is excited to bring you the exclusive reveal of their next item: The Deadpool with Baby Cable Wooden Push Puppet!
These Push Puppets stand like wooden figures, but when you push the bottom they crumble to the ground. Release the button, they stand back up again. (Pump the button to make them dance!)
This baby Cable/Deadpool combination is a fan favorite from the “House of M” storyline, plus Deadpool popularity is ever-higher thanks to this summer’s Deadpool 2 co-starring Cable!
The Push Puppet is limited to only 1,500 pieces–each one has an individually number holographic sticker. And it is only $8.99
If you’re going to SDCC you can get this at the Entertainment Earth booth #2343. If you’re not going to the show, you can place an order now at Entertainment Earth’s site and, if you’re lucky like Domino (meaning if any are left after SDCC), you may be able to get your hands on one!
Toy Fair 2018 Roundup — Dimond Select Toys’ Marvel Selects, Minimates, Gallery Statues, and More
Diamond Select Toys have long been the go-to company for Marvel fans who like highly-articulated, finely detailed figures with their Marvel Select line. And for fans of articulated mini-figs, the Diamond Select Minimates are up to Assortment 76!
But the past couple of years Diamond has expanded their Marvel offerings with the Diamond Gallery PVC statue line and the Marvel Milestones statue line, and this will leave collectors like me with a problem: not enough space for all the cool things they have coming!
Check out all the items in the video below, and see detailed photos in our gallery!
Toy Fair 2018 Roundup — Marvel & Movies Come to Life with Mezco
The clear winner of Best in Show for Toy Fair 2018 is Mezco. Their One:12 series of Marvel figures is entering its third year, and Mezco unveiled some truly awesome and surprising upcoming releases!
On display at the Javitz center were some figures we’d seen before at San Diego Comic-Con, such as the Gladiator Hulk and Thor from Thor: Ragnarok, and the Spider-Man in his homemade suite from Homecoming. New additions to the line however include Black Panther with his movie-style outfit. The silver accents and the detail in the black outfit really make this six-inch figure stand out!
Also new in the Marvel Cinematic Universe was revealed Hela–Mezco’s first female Marvel One:12 figure! She comes with her large headdress and a Cate Blanchett likeness that is downright perfect. My only hope for this figure would be an alternate head (or variant released) without the helmet.
Similarly, in the Marvel Television Universe, three figures were shown. Daredevil is coming in both his Season One black outfit and his season two red. And also from Daredevil Season Two (and his own series) comes The Punisher. He is wearing an armored chestplate, and has an amazing beat-up Jon Bernthal likeness.
For comic-based Marvel fans, though, there was some real excitement! Revealed at the show were two new mutant figures, Cyclops and his son from the future, Cable! Cyclops is in his classic yellow-and-blue outfit, and the soft goods fit the figure perfectly. The shade of blue is spot-on with the ’90s version of the character.
Cable is on a much larger buck than usual, and has more solid plastic than soft goods from what I could see. The robotic arm has incredible sculpting detail, and he is a good size to stand among your other One:12 figures without dwarfing them!
Finally, for horror movie fans of Now Playing Podcast some of Mezco’s horror line of One:12 figures were revealed. They continued their look into the many iterations of Jason (leaving me hoping for a Jason X in the near future!), plus Michael Myers and Ash from Evil Dead 2. I did ask if a Pinhead might be joining this One:12 series soon. Mezco has the Hellraiser rights (as shown with their large figure and fuzzy-dice puzzle boxes). Drake could not confirm Pinhead being slated for the line, but he gave me hope stating, “I’m not saying no…”
Two surprising reveals included John Wick–with an uncanny Keanu Reeves likeness. With the third film, and a TV series, in production there seem to be several companies looking to light the fuse on this new action star.
Plus–in the single most incredible valut-pull I saw at Toy Fair, they are making a One:12 figure of Diabolik from the 1968 film Danger: Diabolik! This is a movie championed in Now Playing’s book Underrated Movies we Recommend and to see the John Phillip Law character realized in six inches was nothing short of astonishing.
Check out our video and photo coverage of Mezco below, and be sure to follow Marvelicious Toys for updates and reviews as these products start to ship!
Toy Fair 2018 Roundup — Marvel Collecting with Monogram International
Monogram International was out in full force during February’s Toy Fair International!
Of course, for collectors the hot item from Monogram is their blind-packaged foam keyrings, and they had two new sets on display. More, they were one of the only companies showing their new Infinity War merchandise–including a new set of keyrings with a blonde-haired Black Widow, Dr. Strange, Nebula, and others!
They also showed an assortment of X-Men related keyrings with characters including Professor X, Magneto, and Cyclops, and a Marvel Zombie Villians themed set with ghoulish versions of Venom, Thanos, and others
But the Marvel goodies didn’t stop at keyrings. Their vinyl bust banks continued to make a showing, with a Gladiator Hulk from Thor: Ragnarok and a new Black Panther joining the ranks of classics like The Punisher, Spider-Gwen, and Deadpool.
A new line of collectibles was shown — blind packaged, figural magnets. These items measure about 2-3 inches tall, and have environmental bases showing the superheroes popping out at you! Initial offerings showed Iron Man, Daredevil (in both Red and Yellow outfits), Deadpool (in his gray X-Force outfit), Captain America, Black Widow, and others.
Finally, for the more practical, there were a number of household items including Marvel chracter-themed neck pillows for flying. There were also pens which are topped with Marvel characters in the same style as their cute keyring collection.
Check out the gallery below for pictures of their booth, and stay with Marvelicious Toys for updates and reviews as these hit retail!
Win “Black Panther: The Art of the Movie” Book and the “Black Panther” Soundtrack CD!
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Facebook is changing its News Feed so you see less news (ironically).
There will be less videos, less news articles, and more items that your friends have commented on.
But there is a way to keep your favorite Pages (like Now Playing Podcast) in your feed. Below you will find instructions how to do it on iPhone, Android, and Desktop.
And by doing this you could win a copy of Black Panther: The Art of the Movie book or the Black Panther soundtrack on CD!
Simply follow the instructions below. Then head to our Facebook page and post a screenshot showing Now Playing having priority in your timeline on our pinned post! You have until March 31 to post it. Two winners will be randomly selected from all entries! The first prize winner gets The Art of Black Panther book ($50 value), and the second prize winner will get the Black Panther soundtrack on CD ($15 value)
The photo posted should be of this screen, with the Blue Star on the Now Playing logo:
International winners may be responsible for some or all of the shipping costs.
Here are the instructions on how to make sure you keep seeing Now Playing’s posts on your timeline:
For Facebook app on iPhone:
1. Select the three line menu in the bottom right corner of the app
1. Scroll down in the menu and click “Settings”
3. Select “news feed preferences” from the pop-up menu
4. Select “Prioritize who to see First” on the next screen
5. Click on “Now Playing Podcast” and any other pages you want to remain in your newsfeed
For Facebook app on Android:
1. Tap on the three line menu in the top right of the app.
2. Select “News Feed Preferences” from the next screen.
3. Tap “Prioritize Who to See First” on the next screen
3. Click on “Now Playing Podcast” and any other pages you want to remain in your newsfeed
For Facebook app on Desktop:
1. Click the arrow in the top right corner to show the drop-down menu
2. From that menu choose “News Feed Preferences.”
3. Select “Prioritize who to see first”
4. Find Now Playing (and all other pages/people you want to see in your feed) and click on them. The Blue Star means you’ll see us in your feed!
Facebook is Changing. Here’s how to keep up with Now Playing Podcasts
Facebook is changing its News Feed so you see less news (ironically).
There will be less videos, less news articles, and more items that your friends have commented on.
But there is a way to keep your favorite Pages (like Now Playing Podcast) in your feed. Here’s instructions how to do it on iPhone, Android, and Desktop:
For Facebook app on iPhone:
1. Select the three line menu in the bottom right corner of the app
1. Scroll down in the menu and click “Settings”
3. Select “news feed preferences” from the pop-up menu
4. Select “Prioritize who to see First” on the next screen
5. Click on “Now Playing Podcast” and any other pages you want to remain in your newsfeed
For Facebook app on Android:
1. Tap on the three line menu in the top right of the app.
2. Select “News Feed Preferences” from the next screen.
3. Tap “Prioritize Who to See First” on the next screen
3. Click on “Now Playing Podcast” and any other pages you want to remain in your newsfeed
For Facebook app on Desktop:
1. Click the arrow in the top right corner to show the drop-down menu
2. From that menu choose “News Feed Preferences.”
3. Select “Prioritize who to see first”
4. Find Now Playing (and all other pages/people you want to see in your feed) and click on them. The Blue Star means you’ll see us in your feed!
Star Wars Toy Sales Down as “Movie Fatigue” Sets In
Are you suffering from “Movie Tie-In Fatigue?”
Per a Bloomberg article, Star Wars toy sales are down. Specifically adult collectors are still buying (but, judging by some “fan” sites, they’re complaining the entire time they shop); however, kids have less interest in the Star Wars toys.
The article states: “While ‘Star Wars’ was still the top-selling toy line during the nine-week holiday period, sales fell from 2016 and the brand lost its No. 1 position for the year…This was despite “Last Jedi” being the top-grossing film released in the U.S. last year “
The most telling quotes? “Adult collectors, who grew up with the brand, are still buying a lot of merchandise when the toys come out, but demand dies down afterward… That doesn’t bode well for Hasbro, which has the main “Star Wars” toy partnership, or Jakks Pacific Inc., which has a secondary license. ”
What do you think? Is the problem fatigue? Is a new movie per year too much? Is it the types of toys offered? Why do YOU think sales are down? Let us know in the comments!
THOR: RAGNAROK Video Release: Streaming Feb 20, Disc Mar 6
Marvel’s God of Thunder will roar in your home starting next month!
One of 2017’s biggest super hero movies, and recipient of three green arrows from the Now Playing Podcast critics, Thor: Ragnarok will strike digitally in HD and 4K Ultra HD on Feb. 20. The 4k Ultra HD and Blu-ray discs will follow on March 6.
The 4k Blu-ray release will include HDR as well as Dolby Atmos audio.
The movie will also be part of the digital “Movies Anywhere” program where a digital copy purchased at a participating digital retailer will be available through all of the following platforms: Amazon Video, Google Play, iTunes and Vudu
In Marvel Studios’ “Thor: Ragnarok,” Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok – the destruction of his home world and the end of Asgardian civilization – at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela (Cate Blanchett). But first he must survive a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger – the Incredible Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) – and grapple with his silver-tongued adopted brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston), the fierce warrior Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson) and the eccentric Grandmaster (Jeff Goldblum).
Fans who bring home the Ultimate Cinematic Universe Edition (4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital) of “Thor: Ragnarok” will experience all the thunderous action and lightning-fast wit in stunning 4K Ultra HD with next-generation high dynamic range (HDR) visuals and Dolby Atmos immersive audio. Exclusive, never-before-seen bonus features include deleted scenes; hilarious outtakes; an exclusive short: part three of the mockumentary “Team Thor,” retitled “Team Darryl” and featuring an eccentric new roommate; the evolution of MCU’s heroes culminating in “Avengers: Infinity War;” numerous making-of featurettes which explore the unique vision of director Taika Waititi; the story’s unstoppable women; the effortlessly charismatic Korg; the tyrannical leader of Sakaar, the Grandmaster; and the film’s comic-book origins; audio commentary by Waititi; and more.
You can hear Now Playing Podcast’s review of the film now. Stay tuned for a review of the 4k Blu-Ray set when available.
See below for further release specifications:
Bonus features may vary by retailer, but there are disc and digital exclusive videos:
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Blu-ray:
- Director’s Introduction
- Deleted/Extended Scenes – Deleted Scenes: The Sorcerer Supreme, Skurge Finds Heimdall & Hulk Chases Thor Through Sakaar and Extended Scenes: Thor Meets the Grandmaster, Stupid Avenger vs. Tiny Avenger & Grandmaster and Topaz
- Gag Reel – Watch a collection of goofs, gaffes and pratfalls starring the cast
- Exclusive Short/Team Darryl – Fresh off being unseated as the ruler of Sakaar, the Grandmaster makes his way to Earth to start a new life. It’s been over a year since Thor left Australia and Darryl has been struggling to pay his rent. Now Darryl needs a new roommate to help make the monthly payments. Unfortunately for Darryl, the Grandmaster was the only one who answered Darryl’s “Roommate Needed” ad and with no viable options, the Grandmaster moves in.
- Marvel Studios: The First Ten Years – The Evolution of Heroes – Marvel’s universe is vast and transcends both time and space. We’ll examine the Cinematic Universe as a whole and revisit each of our heroes’ current location and their place in the current MCU timeline, as it all leads up to the one culminating event: “Avengers: Infinity War.”
- Getting in Touch with Your Inner Thor – “Thor: Ragnarok” director Taika Waititi has brought his unique sensibility and sense of humor to the film in a great many ways but it is the evolution of Thor’s own sense of humor, which stands out the most in the new film. This piece explores the impact Chris Hemsworth has made on the development of his widely-loved character and celebrates the mighty cast and crew who reveal the fun and hard work that went into assembling Thor’s eccentric counterparts.
- Unstoppable Women: Hela & Valkyrie – This piece explores the strong female characters in “Thor: Ragnarok,” their importance in the MCU, their incredible casting and their epic comic origins.
- Finding Korg – A tongue-in-cheek interview with Taika on casting Korg. He describes the difficult search for just the right evolution of the character design, and the nuances of this instantly classic character in the MCU. This conversation will also delve into all the extraordinary visual effects that brought Korg, Sakaar and the worlds of “Thor: Ragnarok” to life.
- Sakaar: On the Edge of the Known and Unknown – Sakaar is the collection point for all lost and unloved things. This documentary will answer all known and unknown questions while also exploring the hard work and creativity that went into creating the look and feel of Sakaar. From design inspired by Jack Kirby’s classic artwork to the dedication of the visual development team to the awe-inspiring physical and digital production, you will see this distant world come alive.
- Journey into Mystery – A deep dive story piece with the writers, director and producer Kevin Feige about the inspirations for “Thor: Ragnarok” within the comics. Most notably, the contest of champions limited series where the Grandmaster pitted our favorite heroes against one another as he does in the film. This piece also further explores Thor’s comic book origins and classic arcs through interviews with some of the most important comic creators, such as Walt Simonson and Jack Kirby.
- 8bit Scenes – Final Bridge Battle + Sakaar Spaceship Battle. Dive into these climactic sequences presented in retro video-game format.
- Directors Commentary
Digital Exclusives:
- Evolution of Thor and Hulk’s Bromance – We’ll examine this Super Hero friendship, which has spanned through several Marvel films. From their original Helicarrier fight match to the now iconic Hulk punch from Avengers 1, see how Marvel’s most powerful Super Heroes become the most extraordinary Super Hero buddies.
- Additional Deleted Scenes – Travel to Asgard & Race To The Wormhole
DISC SPECIFICATIONS (applies to film content only):
- Product SKUs: Cinematic Universe Edition (4K UHD+Blu-ray+Digital), Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray+DVD+Digital), Digital HD/SD/4K UHD, DVD and On-Demand
- Feature Run Time: Approximately 130 minutes
- Rating: PG-13
- Aspect Ratio: 2.39:1
- Audio:
- UHD BD: English Dolby Atmos 7.1.4, English & Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus, French Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital
- Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, Spanish & French Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital
- DVD: English, Spanish & French Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital
- Digital UHD: English Dolby Atmos 7.1.4, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital
- Digital HD: English & French Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 2.0 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital
- Languages/Subtitles: UHD BD: English SDH, Spanish, French Canadian
- Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish, French Canadian
- DVD: English SDH & CC, Spanish, French Canadian
- Digital UHD: English CC, Spanish, French Canadian
- Digital HD: English CC, Spanish, French Canadian
Marvel Launches New Animation Franchise: Marvel Rising. Theatrical Movie due in 2018.
MARVEL TO LAUNCH NEW ANIMATION FRANCHISE ‘MARVEL RISING’
Feature Length Film And Six, Four-Minute Digital Shorts Set to Debut the Property
Key Voice Cast Includes Dove Cameron, Chloe Bennet, Tyler Posey, Kim Raver and BooBoo Stewart Among Others
(Glendale, CA) December 7, 2017 – Marvel Entertainment announced today, “Marvel Rising,” a brand-new, multi-platform animation franchise starring the next generation of Marvel heroes set to launch in 2018. The program will launch with six, four-minute digital shorts that spotlight Spider-Gwen with her new secret moniker, Ghost-Spider, and introduce audiences to the world of “Marvel Rising.” Following the shorts, a feature-length animated film, “Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors” will premiere later that year. Distribution partners for the content to be announced at a later date.
Meet the characters and all-star voice actors behind the all-new franchise “Marvel Rising” here:
The content features an all-star line-up of voice talent including Dove Cameron, Chloe Bennet, Tyler Posey, BooBoo Stewart, Kathreen Khavari, Milana Vayntrub, Cierra Ramirez, Kamil McFadden, Skai Jackson, Kim Raver, Ming-Na Wen, Steven Weber, and Dee Bradley Baker among others. Future stories and content are also being developed across Marvel’s digital and publishing platforms and will be announced at a later date.
“Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors” is a long-anticipated event, bringing together Marvel’s newest and beloved characters that have garnered major fan excitement over the last few years. Powered teens Ms. Marvel, Squirrel Girl, Quake, Patriot, America Chavez, and Inferno join forces as an unlikely, but formidable crew of aspiring heroes. When a threat no one could have expected bears down on the Marvel Universe, this ragtag, untrained band of teens have no choice but to rise together and prove to the world that sometimes the difference between a “hero” and “misfit” is just in the name.
“Marvel characters are so relatable because they live in our world and face the same challenges we do. So I’m very excited that our Marvel Rising team of heroes is so inclusive, reflecting characters with different backgrounds, particularly a set of strong female leads that our young audience can connect with,” said Cort Lane, Marvel’s Senior Vice President of Animation & Family Entertainment.
Sana Amanat, Marvel’s Director of Content & Character Development, added, “This project is unlike anything we’ve done before—from featuring the rising and fan-favorite stars of the Marvel Universe, to a visually distinct animation style, this is a groundbreaking animated event. It’s an action-packed adventure, full of comedy, heart and powerful messages for every kind of Marvel fan.”
Meet the characters behind “Marvel Rising”:
Gwen Stacy aka Ghost-Spider (formerly Spider Gwen) voiced by Dove Cameron (“Descendants,” “Hairspray Live”) – a free spirited teen who found her calling to be a super hero after being bitten by a radioactive spider and gaining spider-like powers. As Ghost-Spider, she aids those in need, but has to keep her alter-ego a secret from her father, Captain George Stacy, who sees Ghost-Spider as more of a menace than a hero.
Daisy Johnson aka Quake voiced by Chloe Bennet (“Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” “Nashville”) – a leading agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. whose tendency for rule-breaking gets her into trouble now and then. Daisy befriends the young group of heroes and through them discovers how to become a better leader. She can generate powerful vibrational waves, which produce effects similar to earthquakes.
Dante Pertuz aka Inferno voiced by Tyler Posey (“Teen Wolf,” “Lincoln Heights”) – a brooding, dark loner on the run. Dante has the power of pyrokinesis, which makes him capable of generating flames – however, he is not fully in control of his fiery abilities. It’s a thin line between good guy and villain for the unpredictable Inferno.
Victor Kohl aka Exile voiced by BooBoo Stewart (“Descendants,” “The Twilight Saga”) – a charming, handsome, and troublesome young Inhuman whose quest for superiority places him into the wrong crowd. He can use Darkforce energy to create weapons and portals that allow him to teleport.
Kamala Khan aka Ms. Marvel voiced by Kathreen Khavari (“Marvel’s Avengers Assemble,” “Big Little Lies”) – a devoted fan of Super Heroes, especially of her mentor Captain Marvel; she is determined that she too can be a great hero! If only she’d be taken seriously. Kamala is equipped with metamorphic powers that allow her to stretch, enlarge, or shrink her overall size, parts of her body, or alter her physical appearance. She is especially fond of “embiggening” her fists.
Doreen Green aka Squirrel Girl voiced by Milana Vayntrub (“Marvel’s New Warriors,” “This Is Us”) – the uber-positive, hilarious best friend and teammate of Ms. Marvel. With advanced computer skills, enhanced strength, agility, durability, and senses of a squirrel, Doreen (along with her squirrel partner, Tippy Toe!), is primed and ready to become a successful hero.
America Chavez voiced by Cierra Ramirez (“The Fosters,” “The Secret Life of an America Teenager”) – a strong, independent young hero whose painful past drives her to reject leadership and remain a loner. America’s powers include superhuman strength, speed, and durability, plus the ability to fly.
Rayshaun Lucas aka Patriot voiced by Kamil McFadden (“K.C. Undercover,” “Grown Ups 2”) – a natural born leader who is quick to leap into action to impress his colleagues at S.H.I.E.L.D. Rayshaun strives to live up to Captain America’s legacy with integrity, honesty, and order above all. His skills include heightened strength, speed, stamina, and durability.
Gloria “Glory” Grant voiced by Skai JacksFron (“Bunk’d,” “Jessie”) – Gloria, or ‘Glory,’ is Gwen Stacy’s friend and member of their garage band “The Emm-Jays.” Gloria is a smart, hard-working girl that genuinely cares for Gwen, but has felt a distance growing between them ever since their friend, Kevin, was murdered. When being casual, Gloria’s known to be funny, sarcastic and sassy.
Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel voiced by Kim Raver (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “24”) – a bold leader who doesn’t sugar-coat and is guided by a strong sense of duty and honor. She’s the ultimate inspiration for our band of misfit heroes. She is equipped with superhuman strength, can fly at high speeds, and can project intense energy blasts.
Hala voiced by Ming-Na Wen (“Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” “Mulan”) – Hala is a Kree Accuser bent on galactic domination. She’ll go to any length or treacherous means to achieve what she, and the entire Kree race, wants: Power. Hala is cold, cryptic and nefarious, often challenging those who try to oppose her.
Captain George Stacy voiced by Steven Weber (“13 Reasons Why,” “NCIS: New Orleans”) – Chief of the NYPD and Gwen Stacy’s loving, but fiercely protective father. Captain Stacy is a very disciplined, hard-working man that will stop at nothing to obtain justice – who unfortunately sees Ghost-Spider as a menace and a threat to society.
Lockjaw and Tippy Toe are voiced by Dee Bradley Baker (“Star Wars Rebels,” “Gravity Falls”). Two lovable and heroic sidekicks: Lockjaw is Kamala’s trusty, teleporting mutt and Tippy Toe is Doreen’s partner in crime and best squirrel friend.
“Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors” is executive produced by Joe Quesada, Dan Buckley, Cort Lane, and Eric Radomski; co-executive produced by Stan Lee, Sana Amanat, and
Marsha Griffin. The film and shorts were written by Mairghread Scott. Alfred Gimeno served as supervising director.
For more information, check out “Marvel Rising” at www.Facebook.com/MarvelRising, www.Twitter.com/MarvelRisingSW, and www.Instagram.com/MarvelRising
New Podcast: Marvelicious Toys — Issue 186: Sweet Christmas 2017 – Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Guide
Hosted by Justin Kozisek, Arnie Carvalho, and Marjorie Carvalho
Happy Thanksgiving, Marvelicious Toys listeners! And welcome to our 8th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!
In this issue Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Marvel Legends, movies, games, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!
Then the hosts, aided by the entire Marvelicious Toys team, run down the best Marvel themed gifts for 2017. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!
Marvel Black Friday
- Titan Figures
- Wal-Mart: 4 Pack Avengers, $20
- Toys R Us: 20-in Titan Spider-Man, $12.49
- Legends
- Meijer – Buy 1 Get 1 Half off Marvel Figures
- GameStop – Deadpool Back in Black exclusive $18.99
- Gamestop – 12-inch Agent of Weapon X Deadpool $44.99
- Games
- Movies
- Best Buy – 4k Movies (Spider-Man Homecoming) for $19.99
- Misc
- Gamestop – USB Groot Car Charger $19.99 (half off)
- Gamestop – Exclusive Marvel Gallery Red Hulk Statue $39.99 ($10 off)
- Kohl’s – Mr. Potato Spider-Man Iron Man Set $21.24 (Half off?)
- Record Store Day – Guardians of the Galaxy Baby Groot Picture Disc (RST FIRST)
- Guardians Inferno on Side A
- Score Track on Side B
Marvel Items
- Hasbro Retro Action Figures
- Legends Hydra Soldiers
- Mezco One:12 Ragnarok Hulk (preorder)
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 S.H.Figuarts Rocket & Baby Groot Exclusive
- Marvel Mei Sho Manga Realization Samurai Iron Man Mark III
- Tsum Tsum Comic Box Mini Set – SMASH
- Hulk Interactive Figure
- Thor Interactive Figure
- Marvel Now ArtFX+ Venom Statue
- Diamond Select Gallery Statues
- Hot Toys that Ship in time for Xmas
- Netflix Punisher
- Netflix DareDevil
- IronMan MK XLVI (46)
- Hulk buster (Wait List, so hurry!)
- Hasbro Hulk Hands
- Disney Toybox Figures
Games
Misc
- Tony Stark Document Holder
- Spidey Crocs
- American Tourister Luggage
- Cross Pen Gift Set – Sign up for newsletter and get 10% off
- Ironman Portable Phone/Tablet Charger by eFx
- eFX Collectibles Winter Soldier Stealth Shield
- Learn to Draw Guardians of the Galaxy
- Her Universe Mjolnir Tie Dye Shirt
- Hulk & Thor Tiki Mugs by Think Geek
- Thor Mjolnir Tool Set Think Geek
- Marvel Calendar
- Marvel 2018 Calendar
- International Groot with candy bowl
- Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 or Spider Man in 4K (with player and TV)
- Marvel Unlimited Subscription
- Marvel Graphic Short Box
- Marvel Themed Hoodies, Sweatshirts and Sweaters @ Superherostuff.com
- Bop It Baby Groot
- Captain America Barbell Plates
HASCON – Hasbro Deadpool Marvel Legends figure SDCC – Thor Battle For Asgard Marvel Legends 5 pack set Deadpool Duck Pop Vinyl figure – Walgreens Exclusive
New Podcast: Star Wars Action News — Episode 498: Black Friday & Holiday Gift Guide 2017
Hosted by Marjorie Carvalho and Arnie Carvalho
Video by Berent Lawton and Daryl Whitlow
It’s time for Star Wars Action News’13th annual Black Friday sale report, and holiday gift guide!
BLACK FRIDAY SALES
- Entertainment Earth
- Black Friday: Starting Wednesday November 22 and continuing to Friday 24th: Star Wars The Black Series Clone Troopers of Order 66 6-Inch Action Figures – Entertainment Earth Exclusive are reduced from $99.99 to $39.99!
- Cyber Monday: Starting Monday Nov. 27 and continuing to Tues. Nov 28th: Star Wars The Black Series Astromech Droids 3 3/4-Inch Action Figures – Entertainment Earth Exclusive reduced from $79.99 to $29.99!
- Sideshow Collectibles Sideshow has some serious savings starting NOW! Black Friday comes early!
- $250 off C-3PO Legendary Scale Figure
- Over $125 off Hot Toys FO Stormtrooper Set
- $50 off Hot Toys Phasma
- Tons more! Check it out!
- Toys
- Walmart AND Jet.com: Hasbro BB-8 RC toy $30
- Target: LEGO Battle on Takodana Set – $34.99 (30% off)
- Bon-Ton: Mattel Star Wars Toys (Hot Wheels) 50% off – DOORBUSTER
- JC Penny: 30% off all Star Wars toys $10 to $30 (so they’re $7 to $21)
- Toys R Us: 3.75-in figures from Ep 7 and Rogue One 40% off — $4.97 ea
- Toys R Us: Rogue One Rapid Fire AT-ACT – $99.98 ($150 off)
- Toys R Us: Star Wars Interactive Figures 50% off (normally $99.99)
- Gamestop: Porg Electronic Plush $29.99 ($10 off)
- Gamestop: Sphero BB-8, R2, BB9E on sale. $50 off R2 ($129.99), $20 off BBs ($129.99)
- NERF Rival Apollo Mandalorian Blaster set $69.99 ($20 off)
- Video Games
- Best Buy: Free Darth Maul POP if you buy Battlefront II (Store Only)
- Gamestpo: Get up to a $50 bonus in Galaxy of Heroes when you buy a Google Play gift card
- Meijer: Playstation 4 Star Wars Battlefront II 1TB Console — $299.99 and save $50 on your next Shopping Trip
- Other
- JC Penny: Kids (boys) Star Wars clothes 50% off
- JC Penny: Men’s Star Wars Gifts 60% off (cups, mugs, Yoda Slippers etc)
- Staples AND Meijer: Star Wars Drones $50 off (99.99)
- Petco: ENTIRE STOCK of Star Wars Pet Collection 25% off
- Watch us on FB & Twitter for live reports of online sales
Toys
LEGO
Hot Toys
-
- K-2SO – shipping now
- Jyn Erso (Deluxe version) – shipping now. So many accessories!!!
- Grand Moff Tarkin – preorder
Books
- Star Wars novels/reading for 2017:
- Rogue One Novelization
- Rebel Rising (YA)
- Thrawn
- Battlefront II: Inferno Squad
- Phasma
- Leia: Princess of Alderaan (YA)
- From a Certain Point of View
- The Legend of Luke Skywalker (YA)
- Doctor Aphra Vol. 1 (TPB)
- A Saga on Home Video: A Fan’s Guide to U.S. Star Wars Home Video Releases by Nathan P. Butler
- 99 Stormtroopers Join the Empire
- Canto Bight (releasing Dec. 5, 2017)
- The Art of Star Wars: The Last Jedi (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Star Wars The Last Jedi The Visual Dictionary (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Star Wars The Last Jedi Incredible Cross-Sections (releasing Dec. 15, 2017)
- Topp Trading Card books
- Retro Draughtsman Coffee Table Book
- Rogue One comic trade paperback
- Star Wars Adventures
Games
-
- Battlefront II (2017)
- Destiny 2-Player Game Everything you need to start playing in one box! Also a CCG, so single packs would be good stocking stuffers in addition to the 2-player game, or if they already play.
Household Items
- Kid’s furniture and rugs
- Star Wars Bounty paper towels
- Jabba/Salacious Tiki Mugs
- Title crawl floor runner
- Stormtrooper Claret Jug (actually a whisky decanter)
- 1:6 dioramas for ikea cases
- Porg Soup Cup from Hot Topic
- Vader Tea Set from Hot Topic
Other
- Hard Enamel Porg Pin
- Captain Phasma NIXON watch
- Swarovski Crystal Threepio
- Swarovski Crystal R2-D2
- Swarovski Crystal BB-8
- Retro Draughtsman Empire Strikes Back Calendar
- Maped Helix ‘Star Wars 40th Anniversary’ Stationary
- Stance star wars socks
- Gift card to get art prints framed
- Little Bits Droid Inventor Kit
- Cross Darth Vader Rollerball Pen
- Darth Vader Men’s Suit from Think Geek
- FigureShields
- American Tourister Luggage
- Star Wars Lip Balm Pack
- Star Wars: The Last Jedi Porg Stationery Set – Exclusive | ThinkGeek
- Now Playing: Underrated Movies We Recommend
DC Comics Offers Dedicated Shop for Wonder Woman Fans
Wonder Woman beat every box office prediction and broke opening weekend records. Its second weekend is expected to continue the trend as it buries The Mummy tomorrow.
But after you’ve seen the film several times, and listened to Now Playing Podcast’s review, how can you celebrate your love for the hero? Warner Bros and DC Collectibles have tons of options for you to display your Wonder Woman love.
At their new site, WonderWomanShop.com, they have iPhone cases, posters, T-Shirts, bomber jackets, and more. (The Protector of Humanity Sublimated Tee is especially cool)
For more serious collectors there are statues from Kotobukiya, DC Collectibles, and even a collection of Funko POP! Figures.
And, of course, you can pre-order the Blu-Ray to be among the first to have it when it ships later this year.
Marvel Presents “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet” Featuring “Born A Snake” by P.O.S
MARVEL COMICS PROUDLY PRESENTS
“Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – PART nine”
FEATURING “Born A Snake” by P.O.S
Innovative Marvel Video Series Bridges Marvel Comics with Top Music Talent
New York, NY—January 25, 2017 — Marvel Comics continues to present this year’s breakout Marvel Super Hero – the Black Panther – through a monthly video series that continues to link the world of comics and hip-hop blending animated comics along with commentary from Black Panther writer, Ta-Nehisi Coates. Additionally, “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – Part Nine” is launching the brand new track, “Born A Snake” by P.O.S off of Chill, dummy available on Doomtree Records.
Within Marvel Comics’ Black Panther, written by The Atlantic national correspondent and National Book Award winner, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Shuri, Black Panther’s sister is reborn anew! New powers, a new codename and a new target: the Midnight Angels. The newly independent Dora Milaje make their final accord with Tetu and The People…T’Challa takes an audience with the voice of dissent, Changamire. But will both men finally listen to reason?
Continuing the excitement surrounding Marvel’s celebrated Super Hero T’Challa, the Black Panther, the latest episode of this revolutionary multi-artist hip-hop-inspired video series samples a brand new track, “Born A Snake” by Stefon Alexander, also known as, P.O.S.
“In crazy and unprecedented times like we are living in right now, I think the Black Panther comic is more important than ever,” said Alexander. “Not just for young black comic book reading kids, but really for everyone of all races and ages. Comics have always been an escape and a window into different people’s ideas. In my humble opinion, Coates, his ideas, and these characters should be celebrated by everyone. The more examples and shades of blackness available, the better and I am honored to be a part of this.”
Watch “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – Part Nine” now!
An Assassin Comes to Vegas – Your First Look at ELEKTRA #1!
An Assassin Comes to Vegas – Your First Look at ELEKTRA #1!
New York, NY—January 25th, 2016 — Sin City has a new player as Marvel’s deadly assassin heads for the bright lights and dry heat of the Las Vegas Strip! Today, Marvel is pleased to present your first look inside in the can’t-miss ELEKTRA #1 – a brand-new series coming this February from writer Matt Owens (Marvel’s Luke Cage) and artist Juann Cabal! Elektra is “Running With the Devil” as the one-time ninja assassin attempts to lose herself in the vibrant sea of neon, noise and anonymity. It’s time for a fresh start. But when you have a past as tumultuous as hers, you can’t outrun it for long! Her arrival hasn’t gone unnoticed by the criminal element of Las Vegas either – drawing the attention of none other than the villainous Arcade! He’s got his eyes on her as the newest contestant for his revamped Murderworld! Can Elektra ever truly escape the vortex of violence that has consumed her life for so long? Or is the cycle doomed to repeat itself? Her new journey into Murderworld and beyond begins on February 22nd in ELEKTRA #1!
ELEKTRA #1 (DEC160870)
Written by MATT OWENS
Art by JUANN CABAL
Cover by ELIZABEH TORQUE
Connecting Variant by MARCO CHECCHETTO (DEC160871)
Variant Covers by PASQUAL FERRY (DEC160874), BILL SIENKIEWICZ (DEC160872)
and SKOTTIE YOUNG (DEC160875)
Hip-Hop Variant by KERON GRANT (DEC160873)
FOC – 1/30/17, On-Sale – 02/22/17
Deadpool, Disney, and Teen Titans in Upcoming Monogram International Blind Bagged Key Chains
Wilson Fisk Builds His New Empire in KINGPIN #1!
Wilson Fisk Builds His New Empire in KINGPIN #1!
New York, NY—January 12th, 2017 — They say that every villain is the hero of their own story. Yes, Wilson Fisk has done some bad things. Deplorable things. He has cheated the law. He has blackmailed rivals. He has killed. But that’s all in the past now. It’s time for a new beginning. And it begins this February in KINGPIN #1 – the new ongoing series from breakout writer Matthew Rosenberg and Marvel newcomer Ben Torres!
The Kingpin is out for a clean start. Wilson Fisk returns to the city he loves with a new goal in mind—to make his mark as a titan of legitimate industry. First things first though, he’ll need to repair his public image. When Wilson Fisk makes a disgraced journalist an offer she can’t refuse, the spiraling saga of crime and betrayal begins anew. Sure, he’s out for a clean start. How long before his hands get dirty again?
Manhattan’s criminal mastermind returns to the Big Apple with honorable intentions, but no one will remain pure on his climb back to the top! Don’t miss the thrilling crime-noir debut of 2017, when KINGPIN #1 comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere on February 8th!
KINGPIN #1 (DEC160863)
Written by MATTHEW ROSENBERG
Art by BEN TORRES
Cover by JEFF DEKAL
Variant Covers by BILL SIENKIEWICZ (DEC160864),
BEN TORRES (DEC160866) and SKOTTIE YOUNG (DEC160868)
Connecting Variant by MARCO CHECCHETTO (DEC160865)
Hip-Hop Variant by JULIAN TOTINO TEDESCO (DEC160867)
Action Figure Variant by JOHN TYLER CHRISTOPHER (DEC160869)
FOC – 1/16/17, On-Sale – 02/08/17
MARVEL COMICS ANNOUNCES “THE DEFENDERS” BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS AND DAVID MARQUEZ
MARVEL COMICS ANNOUNCES THE DEFENDERS
BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS AND DAVID MARQUEZ
All-New Marvel Comic Series Teams-up Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist
New York, NY—January 11, 2017— The streets of New York’s Hell’s Kitchen have become over run with crime and corruption, and there is only one group of Super Heroes – Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist – who are willing to unshackle themselves from the constraints of the rest of the Marvel Super Hero community and fight the villains no one else is willing to take on. Written by EISNER award-winning writer, Brian Michael Bendis (Civil War II, Jessica Jones, Invincible Iron Man) with artwork by New York Times best-selling artist, David Marquez (Civil War II, Invincible Iron Man), prepare for THE Defenders!
The toughest hard-hitting heroes of the Marvel Universe stand together as a brand new team ready to take down one of the most dominating criminal empires ever to shadow over New York City. But in a city where leaders of violence and death are all vying for dominance, who is the one criminal despot powerful enough to challenge the saviors of Hell’s Kitchen?
“As opposed to other more global or galactic Super Hero groups, the Defenders are very much focused on the streets, on the neighborhoods, on the community,” says SVP, Executive Editor, Tom Brevoort. “Their battles are no less fiercely fought or consequential, but the arena is a very different one, and the stakes more personal. Brian will be building upon the relationships that he established years ago in NEW AVENGERS to create something unique and primary within the Marvel Universe.”
“[THE DEFENDERS] is a smorgasbord of everything I truly love about Marvel Comics,” continues Bendis. “And to keep the team of David [Marquez], Justin [Ponsor], and myself together for another creative challenge is so exciting! We’ve been planning this book for well over a year and we’re so excited to show you what we think the next phase of the gritty marvel streets will have to offer.”
Some of the darkest days await Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist, but THE DEFENDERS are ready to plant their feet, and fight back-to-back against one of the most epic wars the streets of NYC have ever encountered and stand resolute against an attack so personal that it will challenge our heroes at their very core and everyone they have ever cared about.
This June, the five boroughs have a new front line of defense. But can the collective strength of Daredevil, Luke, Jess, and Iron Fist have what it takes to protect the “Big Apple?” Find out this summer from Marvel Comics’ THE DEFENDERS!
THE DEFENDERS #1
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Art by DAVID MARQUEZ
Cover by DAVID MARQUEZ
On-Sale in June!
Superstar Artist Francesco Francavilla Covers MONSTERS UNLEASHED!
Superstar Artist Francesco Francavilla Covers MONSTERS UNLEASHED!
Special Monster Movie Poster Variants Coming to Each Issue
New York, NY—January 12th, 2016 — Next week…monsters invade the Marvel Universe! And they’re bringing one of the hottest artists in the comic book industry with them! Eisner Award-winning artist Francesco Francavilla lends his pen to a series of upcoming variant covers! Coming to each issue of the upcoming MONSTERS UNLEASHED series, the fan-favorite illustrator brings mighty Marvel monsters to life in the vein of classic monster movie posters! Today, Marvel is pleased to reveal all five FRANCAVILLA 50s MOVIE POSTER VARIANTS – coming to comic shops beginning next week!
1. Monstrom, The Dweller in the Black Swamp! (Monsters Unleashed #1)
2. It Crawls By Night! (Monsters Unleashed #2)
3. Return of the Martian! (Monsters Unleashed #3)
4. Zzutak! The Worst Menace The World Has Ever Known! (Monsters Unleashed #4)
5. The Creature from the Black Bog (Monsters Unleashed #5)
Raining down from the skies, rising from the depths of the oceans and emerging from beneath the very Earth itself – monsters are invading and destroying everything in their path! The only thing that stands in their way is an army of the strongest super heroes in the Marvel Universe! But even they may not be enough to stop these towering titans! It’s all happening in MONSTERS UNLEASHED as the Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, the Champions, the X-Men, the Inhumans and more band together to stop complete and total annihilation!
Don’t miss the oversized MONSTERS UNLEASHED #1 comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere next Wednesday – January 18th! Read a FREE 11-page preview of the first issue before it hits stands next week.
MONSTERS UNLEASHED #1 (NOV160745)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by STEVE MCNIVEN
On-Sale January 18th
MONSTERS UNLEASHED #2 (DEC160883)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (DEC160886)
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by GREG LAND
On-Sale February 1st
MONSTERS UNLEASHED #3 (DEC160891)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (DEC160894)
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by LEINIL YU
On Sale in February!
MONSTERS UNLEASHED #4 (JAN170907)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (JAN170908)
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by SALVADOR LARROCA
On Sale in March!
MONSTERS UNLEASHED #5 (JAN170914)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (JAN170915)
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by ADAM KUBERT
On Sale in March!
A Sith Unleashed in Your First Look at STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1!
A Sith Unleashed in Your First Look at STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1!
On Sale February 1st!
New York, NY – January 9th, 2016 – This February, hatred has a new face. But first, Marvel Entertainment & Lucasfilm Ltd. are pleased to present your first look inside STAR WARS: #1 – the next thrilling Star Wars limited series comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere! Blockbuster writer Cullen Bunn (Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe, Monsters Unleashed) and artist Luke Ross (Star Wars: The Force Awakens Adaptation) take you inside the mind of Darth Sidious’ star pupil as he embarks on a personal quest – with deadly consequences!
Bred on hate, fear, and anger. Steeped in the ways of darkness…trained to kill. Darth Maul’s time as an apprentice to Darth Sidious has long been cloaked in shadows, but at last we will reveal his tale of revenge. His master tells him to embrace his anger, but to stay hidden and bide his time. Maul has waited long enough – his patience growing ever thinner. His moment to step into the light has finally come. Prepare for a tale of unbridled rage as Darth Maul readies one of his first encounters with his mortal enemy…with the Jedi.
Go inside the mind of the fan-favorite character as Bunn and Ross bring you the highly anticipated STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1 – available February 1st!
For more info, visit Marvel.com for a full interview with writer Cullen Bunn.
STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1 (of 5) (DEC161069)
Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art by LUKE ROSS
Cover by ROD REIS
Variant Covers by RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE (DEC161071)
And MARK BROOKS (DEC161072)
Action Figure Variant by JOHN TYLER CHRISTOPHER (DEC161073)
Star Wars 40th Anniversary Variant by TERRY DODSON (DEC161074)
Movie Variant (DEC161076) and Animation Variant (DEC161075) Also Available
Reis Sketch Variant Also Available (DEC161070)
FOC – 1/9/17, On-Sale – 2/1/17
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BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER Returns For All-New Series!
BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER Returns For All-New Series!
The Fan-Favorite Character Goes Solo in April
New York, NY—January 9th, 2017 — This April, one of the most controversial characters in Marvel history returns to don the mask (and hoodie!) once more. Today, Marvel is pleased to announce BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1 – the new series from New York Times Bestselling creators Peter David (Amazing Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2099) and Mark Bagley (Ultimate Spider-Man, All-New X-Men)! That’s right, Ben Reilly is webslinging his way back into comic shops everywhere later this year and he’s bringing two of the most accomplished & beloved Spider-Man creators of all-time with him! Only question is – will it be as a hero…or a villain?
It was the twist that shocked the world. Ben Reilly had returned, but not as he once was. Twisted and manipulated by the villainous Jackal, the fallen clone is out to break the cycle, and reclaim his destiny. Not as Peter Parker’s clone – but as his own man. Will suiting up once more as the Scarlet Spider be enough to outrun his personal demons? All while being able to stay one step ahead of the man hunting him – Kaine Parker – the former Scarlet Spider?!
“This book is not your usual Spider-Fare,” says Executive Editor, VP of Content & Digital Publishing Nick Lowe. “Peter David and Mark Bagley are taking this character into uncharted territory that’s both rip-roaring and troubling.”
His old life is over. It’s time for a new beginning. But can you ever truly outrun your past? Find out as the iconic fan-favorite character returns to the fore once again in BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1 – coming this April!
[amazon_link asins=’0785163085,0785166491,0785163115,B01GUF6WKK,B00Q87YP8W,B01N46PW7H’ template=’ProductAd’ store=’vengmedi0c-20′ marketplace=’US’ link_id=’f8ea45a8-d8e2-11e6-8d62-197f2de028bd’]
BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1
Written by PETER DAVID
Art & Cover by MARK BAGLEY
On-Sale in April!
A New Era Begins for the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY!
A New Era Begins for the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY!
New York, NY—January 10th, 2017 — This summer, your favorite ragtag group of spacefaring heroes are blasting off with a historic new beginning! New adventures, new creative team, high adventure in deep space! Marvel is pleased to announce ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1 – a new ongoing series launching this May from blockbuster creators Gerry Duggan (Deadpool, Uncanny Avengers) and Aaron Kuder (Death of X)!
Star-Lord. Gamora. Drax. Rocket Raccoon. Groot. Reunited and it feels so good! After an extended stay on this mudball we call Earth, the Guardians of the Galaxy return to the stars! Yet, as this band of misfits reunites, they’ll find they’ve undergone some…changes. Drax the Destroyer has sworn off violence. Groot isn’t regenerating as he once was. This team better get it together, because it won’t be long before they find themselves in a war between the Elders of the Universe. One that will force them to pull off the biggest heist they’ve ever attempted – literally!
“I cannot tell you how excited I am for this book!,” exclaims series Editor Jordan D. White. “Gerry and Aaron have been working on this puppy in secret for months, and they’ve cooked up a series that will be the spine of the Marvel cosmic universe, while still being rooted in the great Guardians characters we love. And maybe even a surprise addition to the team eventually, too…”
Exciting alien worlds! Thrilling action! The mysteries of deep space! Blast off with Duggan and Kuder as they explore the furthest corners of the Marvel Universe! This May, it’s a fresh start, and it’s coming at you in ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1!
ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1
Written by GERRY DUGGAN
Art & Cover by AARON KUDER & IVE SVORCINA
Launching this May!
MARVEL STUDIOS DOCTOR STRANGE on Digital HD Feb. 14 and Blu-ray Feb. 28
BRING HOME THE MYSTIFYING, MIND-BENDING JOURNEY
MARVEL STUDIOS’ “DOCTOR STRANGE”
on Digital HD Feb. 14 and Blu-ray™ Feb. 28
of extras highlighting the award-winning cast
!
BURBANK, Calif., January 6, 2017 — Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange,” the story of Dr. Stephen Strange, Master of the Mystic Arts, has mesmerized both audiences and critics, pulling in more than $658.3 million at the worldwide box office to date and earning a 90% critics consensus on Rotten Tomatoes. The biggest single-character introduction in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it also carries on Marvel Studios’ winning streak as the 14th consecutive MCU film to debut at #1 at the domestic box office.
On Feb. 14, “Doctor Strange” fans can bring home the critically acclaimed blockbuster early on Digital HD/3D and Disney Movies Anywhere, or on Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray, Digital SD, DVD and On-Demand on Feb. 28. The Blu-ray and Digital releases come packaged with over 80 minutes of fascinating, never-before-seen bonus materials, including five behind-the-scenes featurettes, five deleted scenes, hilarious outtakes, part two of the comical mockumentary “Team Thor,” audio commentary, and an exclusive look at the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The film boasts an award-winning cast, including Benedict Cumberbatch (“The Imitation Game,” “Black Mass”) as Dr. Stephen Strange, Chiwetel Ejiofor (“12 Years a Slave,” “Triple 9”) as Mordo, Rachel McAdams (“Spotlight,” “Southpaw”) as Dr. Christine Palmer, Benedict Wong (“The Martian,” “Prometheus”) as Wong, Michael Stuhlbarg (“A Serious Man,” “Steve Jobs”) as Dr. Nicodemus West, Benjamin Bratt (“Traffic,” “Piñero”) as Jonathan Pangborn, and Scott Adkins (“El Gringo,” “The Expendables 2”) as Lucian/Strong Zealot, with Mads Mikkelsen (“The Hunt,” “Casino Royale”) as Kaecilius and Academy Award® winner Tilda Swinton (2007 Best Supporting Actress, “Michael Clayton”; “Julia”) as The Ancient One.
Bonus Features (Bonus features may vary by retailer. The DVD does not include any bonus materials.):
- Featurettes
- A Strange Transformation – Open your eye to a new dimension of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and see how the filmmakers brought one of comic books’ greatest characters to life.
- Strange Company – Find out what it’s like for the cast to work on a Marvel film, and how Director Scott Derrickson engineered one of the most ambitious, imaginative films ever.
- The Fabric of Reality – Take a closer look at the movie’s extraordinary sets, meticulously crafted costumes and amazingly detailed production elements.
- Across Time and Space – Explore the countless hours of dance and fight choreography the actors endured in preparation for their physically demanding roles.
- The Score-cerer Supreme – Join Composer Michael Giacchino and a full orchestra during live recording sessions, and experience the movie’s mind-bending music.
- Marvel Studios Phase 3 Exclusive Look – Get an early peek at Marvel’s spectacular upcoming films, including Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War.
- Team Thor: Part 2 – See more of the hilarious partnership between Thor and his roommate Darryl in this satirical short.
- Deleted Scenes
- Strange Meets Daniel Drumm
- Kaecilius Searches for Answers
- The Kamar-Taj Courtyard
- Making Contact
- Lost in Kathmandu
- Gag Reel
- Audio Commentary by Director Scott Derrickson
DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE:
- Through the Keyhole: The Science of the MCU – Discover how Marvel grounds all its films in real science, and explore the connection between science, magic and imagination.
From Marvel Studios comes Doctor Strange, the story of world-famous neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), whose life changes forever after a horrific car accident renders his hands useless. When traditional medicine fails him, he travels to the remote Kamar-Taj in search of a cure, but instead discovers the mystical arts and becomes a powerful sorcerer battling dark forces bent on destroying our reality.
The 10 Best Movies of the Year (and the 1 Worst)
[nextpage title=”Introduction” ]
I love movies. Due to that, and thanks to my work on Now Playing Podcast I have watched a lot of movies in 2016. 229, to be precise. Many were for our upcoming book Underrated Movies We Recommend, and even more for the podcast itself. Finally, a good number were thanks to my recent guest appearances on the UK radio show TALKSport Extra Time.
I logged and ranked every film I watched on Letterboxd. That made it very easy to see which were the best and the worst. So as we start to ring in a new year, here’s a look back on the ten best (and very worst) movies I saw in ’16.
And a note, some of these movies were reviewed previously through those outlets. My views here may differ slightly from those initial reactions as I’ve rewatched the movies and had time to more fully digest them. Plus these are short reviews that work more like a “final thought” than the in-depth Now Playing analysis.
With all that said, let’s get started!
[/nextpage][nextpage title=”10. Jason Bourne” ]
| 10. Jason Bourne (****)Matt Damon is back in the role he was Bourne to play.
It’s been nine years since we last saw Jason Bourne on screen, but the actor slips comfortably back into this role. The story revisits familiar beats from some of the earlier films…and that’s not a bad thing. After nearly a decade away from the franchise, director Paul Greengrass was smart to remind audiences of why they liked Bourne to begin with. Some echos of The Bourne Supremacy help trigger those memories. The film is also updated with a contemporary topic–government surveillance through technology and social media. After years of an aimless and violent life Bourne is again ensnared in that CIA plot. This time his “in” is through his former ally Nicky Parsons, played for the fourth time by Julia Stiles. With her information Bourne is again on the run while trying to uncover a mystery that traces back to his roots in the CIA Blackbriar assassin program, and may involve his father. The supporting cast of Bourne is the best yet in the series. Tommy Lee Jones dwarfs Brian Cox and the other government suits that have plagued Bourne previously. Riz Ahmed also won me over as social media CEO Aaron Kalloor. His Edward Snowden-like story may have been somewhat underdeveloped, but was the most interesting of any Bourne subplot to date. (Of course, maybe I have a penchant for those types of stories as the next film in this list will show…) Jason Bourne also is a good action travelogue as our hero goes to Reykjavik, Athens, Berlin, London, and ends with an exciting Las Vegas car chase. The practical stunts got my adrenaline pumping. This was one of the best Bournes yet, and well worth a watch. |
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[/nextpage][nextpage title=”9. Snowden” ]9. Snowden (****)
| Snowden is the most frightening techno-thriller film I’ve ever seen…because it was true.Conspiracy theorist and director Oliver Stone returns to a familiar topic–criticizing the power of the U.S. Government–in a familiar way. Snowden is Stone’s ninth biopic (tenth if you count JFK). This time he’s telling a story only three years old, that of CIA Analyst Edward Snowden and his discovery and media reveal of the NSA’s extensive domestic surveillance programs.
Most people are likely familiar with the last part of Snowden’s story, how he gave classified information to The Guardian and has since been a fugitive living in Moscow. He is seen by some Americans (citizens and politicians alike) as a heroic patriot, and by others as a traitor. In this year’s presidential election he was a regular topic of debate. While not everyone may have read the articles detailing all of the government spying on its citizens, this is all recent news that anyone who wants to see this film knows. But Stone makes Snowden interesting by telling the programmer’s life story in flashback. It begins with what we all know and then goes deeper. Joseph Gordon-Levitt lowers his voice two octaves to play Edward Snowden. While the voice was initially off-putting, he soon melts into the role in a performance that is among his career best. He brings confidence and uncertainty in equal measure to this story of a man caught between morality and security. Snowden’s rise through the ranks of the CIA is told in a way reminiscent of Stone’s original Wall Street. Both stories feature 20-somethings entering a high-stakes profession, and in both cases they are faced with making moral compromises to ensure success. Along the way each found the love of a beautiful woman, but the relationship was put to the test as our protagonist deals with his convictions. Unlike Wall Street’s Charlie Sheen character Bud, though, Snowden is less materialistic and more Born on the Fourth of July — he’s clearly painted as a patriot through-and-through. He joined the Army to serve his country, and when he broke his leg he searched for other ways to serve. He is painted as an idealist who questions the correctness of the surveillance programs he is tasked with creating. When Obama was elected and promised transparency Snowden believed him. When nothing changed the programmer chose to do what he felt was right by taking the information public. The information Stone drops is truly frightening as he dramatizes and illustrates the scope of the data gathered by the NSA. Yet the personal stories in Snowden are given their proper focus. That stops this from feeling like a Michael Moore documentary. I was wrapped up in the plots and, though I knew how it ended, I was on the edge of my seat as Snowden stole the data and then ran from the government. If you are firmly in the “Snowden is a traitor” camp then Snowden’s basic premise will chafe. It’s clear Stone views him as a hero, and he does a decent job of selling that thesis. If you agree, or if you’re unsure but want to know more, given this a watch. Just don’t torrent it–the government will know if you do. |
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| 8. Don’t Breathe (****)Don’t Breathe is a very accurate title. While watching this suspense-thriller I found myself holding my breath in anticipation of what would come next.
Fede Alvarez, director of the 2013 Evil Dead remake, reteamed with star Jane Levy for this original horror film (also produced by Evil Dead’s Sam Raimi and Robert Tapert). Levy plays Rocky, a teenager who dreams of taking her little sister and escaping her alcoholic stepfather. Rocky has partnered with Alex (Dylan Minnette) and Money (Daniel Zovatto) to break into homes and rob them. Alex picks the homes he can enter undetected by targeting the customers of his father’s home security company. Don’t Breathe follows the “one last job” caper formula. The trio hear about a blind man (Stephen Lang) with $300,000 in cash in his house. The home is completely locked with bars on the windows, but they find a way in. But this Blind Man has secrets of his own that he will kill to keep quiet. His Army training has made him a dangerous adversary even without sight. After hearing the robbery in progress he sets about hunting and killing the interlopers who have broken into his home. Lang (Avatar) steals the show as a new horror film killer. His grizzled look, his large frame, and his commanding delivery make him an intimidating presence despite his blindness. More, he’s smart. As the three invaders try to avoid his touch and being heard, Lang carries himself like the Terminator. One slip-up will mean death to the young robbers. These evasion scenes are the most tense. Alvarez’s camerawork and use of sound sucked me into the film. More, the script tricked me — the characters I assumed safe weren’t. The highlight of the film (pun intended) is when the Blind Man cuts power to his house, leveling the playing field by rendering Rocky and Alex sightless. The scene appears to be shot in green “night vision”, the characters’ pupils open wide, as they struggle to feel their way to an escape. When all is revealed the movie does suffer some logic issues. But the path there was fun and original. A solid Recommend. |
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| 7. Rogue One: A Star Wars Story (****)Star Wars goes back to its roots with Rogue One – a spin-off story that captures the fun of Lucas’ original trilogy.
The movie is a prequel, set mere days before George Lucas’ original Star Wars. That 1977 film began with a scroll that said “Rebel spaceships, striking from a hidden base, have won their first victory against the evil Galactic Empire.” This movie tells of that battle–albeit focusing more on the ground fight than those in space. Lucas’ original movie ended with the destruction of the Imperial Death Star through a flaw found in the space station’s design. This film centers on a group of six people brought together to aid the rebellion by trying to capture or kill the station’s architect, and to steal those Death Star Plans. It’s a story with a foregone conclusion, so much is riding on the abilities of Godzilla director Gareth Edwards and his cast to make the story entertaining. And they succeed. Felicity Jones stars as Jyn Erso – a minor criminal blackmailed into helping the rebellion. She says she’s never had the luxury of political opinion but her mission here starts to challenge her lack of ideals. She is working with Rebel spy Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna. His character starts to show some of the dark side of rebellions and the treachery involved. But while those two star, the minor players really steal the show. Alan Tudyk’s sarcastic droid K-2SO and Donnie Yen’s wannabe Jedi Chirrut Îmwe are standout characters that bring humor and action to the proceedings. Also a new baddie, Imperial Director Oson Krennic, played by Ben Mendelsohn, gives a new, slightly sympathetic face to the Empire. This guy is middle management who has succeeded in building the Death Star, but still seeks the recognition. While he is clearly the antagonist, his ineffective style puts him in the same gray area as some of the Rebels. The result are intriguing characters on a fantastic space romp. Despite having no one named Skywalker in the story, this movie is Star Wars through and through. Rogue One does stumble over some logic issues that seem the result of rewrites and reshoots. Some characters seem unmotivated and things just seem to happen. Plus the technology just isn’t there yet for the CGI necromancy they attempt to invoke by bringing back characters from that original movie. But when you’re swept up in this film’s fun you hardly seem to notice. The Force is with Rogue One…and you should be too. Hear Now Playing Podcast’s full review of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story |
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| 6. Sully (****)In Sully America’s Hollywood Treasure Tom Hanks plays America’s Real-Life Hero pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger.
The story of Sully’s takeoff, collision with geese, and safe landing in the Hudson River was well covered by the media when it happened in January, 2009, and Sully himself became a star appearing on both news and entertainment talk shows. So the question is–why do we need a movie telling us what we already know? Based on Sully’s autobiography Highest Duty, Sully is not your average biopic. We get two brief flashbacks of Sully as a young adult learning to fly, but this movie actually begins after the plane crash and focuses on the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. In the film Sully says his life will be defined by 208 seconds and the film does just that. It is not about the man, but the pilot dealing with the aftermath of a crash. The hook is the NTSB simulations and computer data all say Sully made the wrong choice–he could have landed safely back at Laguarda or at Newark. That mystery kept me in suspense the entire film wondering “Is everything I know about this man wrong?” Of course, by casting perennial good guy Hanks as Sully we are always on his side. The star, with white hair and mustache, sinks into the role to the point I sometimes forgot about the actor and focused on the pilot. He is ably supported by Aaron Eckhart as his co-pilot Skiles and Laura Linney as his wife Lorraine (though Linney is stuck acting against a telephone receiver for the whole film–I wonder if director Clint Eastwood gave her pointers learned from his performance with a chair). Even the minor actors are often recognizable faces that gave depth to small parts. It’s a cynical time in America’s history and this story of a crash is, ironically, quite uplifting. At a fleet 96 minutes, Sully flies by, and with the gorgeous photography of New York City and the acting on display it’s a smooth ride everyone should take. |
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| 5. Bleed for This (****)You just can’t knock out the boxing film. For decades, this sport has brought some great cinema from The Champ to Rocky to Raging Bull and the recent standout Creed. Bleed for This differs from those films in that it is based on the true story of boxer Vinny Paz who in the early ’90s was a world champion boxer who broke his neck in a car collision and faced the real possibility he may never box again.
For those unfamiliar with Paz, this turn of events can come as a shock, as the first half of this film chronicles the fighter’s rise to the championship after jumping up in weight class. And during that hour there are the usual boxing cliches — the training montage, the manager who doesn’t believe in him, the bouts set up that he can’t win, and his triumph. The second half, chronicling his life after the accident, repeats many of those beats. His new training montage as he tries to get his body back into shape. His fights with family over the risk of him becoming paralyzed if he fights again. His paralysis is to this film what Rocky’s loss to Clubber Lang was in Rocky III – a reason to train, a reason to root for the character to literally keep fighting. But Bleed for This does rise above the genre thanks to an astounding cast of familiar actors who have transformed their look. Aaron Eckhart is almost unrecognizable with a receding hairline and a beer belly as Paz’s trainer Kevin Rooney. Silence of the Lambs‘ Ted Levine plays Paz’s manager– a smaller part he wears like a comfortable coat. And it wasn’t until credits rolled that I realized Married with Children’s Katy Segal was Paz’s mother Louise. And Miles Teller, who has played a good sahre of geeks and nerds, shows off a muscular physique and does what I thought impossible–he makes me believe he could take a beating. I think he pales next to his co-stars but he delivers enough punch to pull off the role. His performance, and look, is important too as director Ben Younger intersperses the film with actual video of the real Paz either boxing or on talk shows. The video is given enough of a filter that it softens the differences between Paz and Teller, and sometimes I wondered who was who. Younger also has an amazing use of sound and silence in the film. Some montages, all set to 80s songs, just stop with dead air as something changes, instead of fading out. The same audio trick is used during fights, the car accident, and more. It’s a nice aural way of keeping the audience wrapped up in the action. How the film ends is obvious even to those who don’t remember Paz’s 90s career, so it’s may be a TKO instead of a KO but this film gets a solid Recommend. |
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| 4. Ouija: Origin of Evil (****)Ouija: Origin of Evil is a surprising film that shakes off the specter of the cliched original and become a standout Exorcist redux.
Elizabeth Reaser plays Alice Zander, a widowed fortune teller who involves her teenage daughter Paulina and her 9-year-old daughter Doris in her scams. But when she decides to add a Ouija board to her act it seems little Doris is actually able to communicate with their dead father. Soon Alice is using her daughter’s skills to help business, but a dark, evil presence threatens to consume Doris forever. Origin of Evil often plays like a moody and suspenseful updating of William Friedkin’s The Exorcist. They even recreate the iconic scene of the priest standing outside the house with the framing and the pause–this time with E.T.’s Henry Thomas standing in for Max von Sydow. The film is set in 1967 and they play up the period in several meta ways, including reel marking cigarette burns and reel jumps on this digital projection. They even use 60s style opening titles and the old Universal logo to open the film. These little touches made the cinemaphile in me giddy while also adding a touch of period-authenticity. If you saw the first film you know how this ends, but while watching it’s really hard to believe they’ll connect those dots. It’s a nihilistic tale surrounded by ’60s pastel decor. Many beats of the original film are recreated, such as the “Hi Friend” opening from the ghosts, and the clumsy insertion of the Ouija board as a prop. But this film focuses on a small group, a low body count, and scares driven by the drama instead of by loud music stings This may be the single biggest improvement in history of a sequel over the original. There’s Superman II, Godfather II, The Road Warrior, Wrath of Kahn, but all those original films had unique qualities and at least some merit. Ouija is a film that seemed really undeserving of a sequel, and the result is quite impressive. |
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| 3. Deadpool (****)Deadpool seems to do the impossible–stand out as unique in a deluge of comic book inspired films. And while it may be number three on this list, it’s clearly the biggest success story of the year.
By all rights Deadpool should never have been made at all. After Ryan Reynolds’ disastrous supporting role playing Deadpool in X-Men Origins: Wolverine the property seemed toxic. Fox Studios holds the rights to all of Marvel’s X-Men characters, and they repeatedly ignored fan requests to see the Merc with a Mouth get his own film. Behind the scenes a similar struggle was taking place as Reynolds tried to convince the studio to do it and was continuously shot down. Things changed, slightly, when director Tim Miller leaked test footage he had made with Reynolds showcasing what a Deadpool movie could be. The immense fan reaction online convinced Fox to move ahead with the project–but it was clear they had little confidence in the film. With an ever-shrinking budget that is estimated at $58 million Deadpool was the least expensive entry in Fox’s X-Men franchise. Even 2000’s original X-Men had $75 million, and that’s before adjusting for inflation. Yet Deadpool may be a shining example of “art through adversity.” The small budget led to some creative decisions in the film that became standout moments. Plus the small risk allowed Deadpool to have a hard R-rating and to take chances that no “by committee” X-Men movie has done. The result is a massive $750 million box office — one of the most profitable studio films of all time. It grossed more than any other X-Men movie. It surpassed The Matrix Reloaded as the all-time top-grossing R-rated film. And it is Fox studio’s biggest film not directed by George Lucas or James Cameron. I champion this film for taking risks and for proving that studio bureaucracy hinders filmmaking more often than it helps. But most of all–the movie is a real fun time! Ryan Reynolds has cranked his personality up to 11 here. The quips, the mannerisms, and the breaking of the fourth wall all fit Deadpool from the comic pages–and also are in line with Reynolds’ previous performances in Van Wilder, Blade: Trinity, Two Guys, a Girl, and a Pizza Place, and more. He says that he is Deadpool–and the movie proves it. Miller also gives some amazing visuals. The opening 3-D still image is a wonder of detail and his fights are all well-staged and inventive. Finally, it’s a movie that came at the right time. Eight superhero films were released this year; 91 superhero films were released since Fox’s X-Men 16 years ago. So many of those movies follow the same tropes in action and in story that even casual fans are growing tired. Deadpool was happy to stick a katana in the comic book movie bubble and skewer those cliches. (That Reynolds also jabs a bit at his own ill-conceived outings as Green Lantern and the first Deadpool incarnation add to the fun.) It is my most-quoted film of the year and one that has only improved on repeat viewings. He may wear a red suit but he gets a bright green, CGI arrow from me. |
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[nextpage title=”2. Captain America: Civil War” ]
| 2. Captain America: Civil War (****1/2) Marvel Studios’ 13th film is also one of their best. The Russos follow up the superb Captain America: The Winter Soldier with this action packed drama. The movie captured the school-yard fun of “Which hero would win in a fight.” More, the script elevated this above just fan-service; they believably made it character-driven.With guest appearances by Vision, Scarlet Witch, Black Widow, Falcon, Hawkeye, Black Panther, War Machine, Ant-Man, Spider-Man, and, of course, Iron Man, yes, it does feel more like a third Avengers movie than the third Cap solo project. But because it was a Captain America film they were able to focus on him and his story. To try and juggle an ensemble of this size and give each a fulfilling arc is near-impossible (just ask Joss Whedon). This was a personal story of conflict set in a universe filled with amazing and colorful characters.
More, the film sets two heroes against each other without turning either into the bad guy. It’s a tricky balance to make us excited to see Iron Man in this summer’s Spider-Man: Homecoming and to keep us waiting for whenever Captain America appears again. The Russos pull it off. Marvel had a shaky 2015 with Age of Ultron and Ant-Man. Civil War put the universe back on track and has me counting the days until Infinity War! Hear Now Playing Podcast’s full review of Captain America: Civil War |
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[nextpage title=”The Best Film of 2016 is….” ]
| 1. The Nice Guys (*****)Hey girl, if you watch one original movie this year–make it The Nice Guys!
I rarely give any movie a perfect 5-star ranking. It seems every movie has something that could be fixed, tightened, or improved in some way. For this score I demand a movie that feels perfect immediately. This year I only ranked one movie 5-stars. Only one film had the intelligence, the entertainment, and the charm for such a ranking. That movie is Shane Black’s ’70s period-piece noir dark comedy The Nice Guys. Black is a writer and director known best for his buddy-action films, including Lethal Weapon, The Last Boy Scout and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (the latter of which was one of my picks for our Underrated Movies book). After straying from that formula with Iron Man 3 the director returned to the material that served him best with The Nice Guys, adapting another Brett Halliday novel for the screen. The film follows drunken P.I. Holland March (Ryan Gosling) and muscle-for-hire Jackson Healy (Russell Crowe) as they search for a missing porn actress. In this way the movie functions as a suitable mystery, with enough twists and turns to keep you guessing. The chemistry between the two actors engages me completely. Crowe’s bloated and violent Healy is a perfect foil for alcoholic, inexperienced March. Both have better comedic chops than I would have expected from actors better known for their dramatic roles. I was skeptical they could play these parts well, but such fears were assuaged in the first 10 minutes. And they both play well off third-wheel Holly — March’s daughter played by Angourie Rice. Holly brings a bit of a “Hit Girl” attitude to her role, but, like the grown-ups, she isn’t quite ready for what she’ll face. They are aided by a supporting cast of name actors including Kim Basinger, Keith David, Matt Bomer, all giving great performances. Much like Kiss Kiss Bang Bang the two detectives are at odds, but forced to work together to uncover the crime. Throughout we are shown each character’s deep pathos about the state of their life and career. Such scenes are often laugh-out-loud funny but also touching. The film’s title shows these two attempting to be good people in a time and place where corruption reigns. Of course, their definition of “nice” does include acts like dropping people off the roof of a building, letting them get hit by cars, or punching them in the face. These action scenes range from slapstick to straight adrenaline. Black never lets the mood get too dark but the comedy serves the plot instead of being a distraction. More, it all feels natural and real. These are two guys caught up in a fiasco and they just aren’t going to handle it like action heroes. Additionally Black owns the ’70s style he has chosen. This is not just costuming for the actors, the period’s gas crisis and financial woes are central to the overall mystery. It’s a film I loved when I first saw it in May, and each home viewing has deepened my appreciation. No movie in 2016 has come close to The Nice Guys for delivering the thrills I seek in a movie. |
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[nextpage title=”The Worst of 2016 is…” ]
| The Worst Film of 2016 –Independence Day: Resurgence (*)
I think even Jeff Goldblum’s environmentalist character David would be against recycling after seeing the reprocessed garbage that is Independence Day: Resurgence. The original Independence Day was a visual spectacle. While not exactly an intellectual movie, it had enough character types and action to engage audiences and become a world-wide success. Much of that relied on the charisma of newly-minted star Will Smith as pilot Steven Hiller — he showed it could be fun to “kick E.T.’s ass.” 20 years later Independence Day is back, again produced by Dean Devlin and directed by Roland Emmerich. On screen are returning actors Goldblum, Bill Pullman, Judd Hirsch, Brent Spiner, and (briefly) Vivica A. Fox. But Will Smith is gone. And despite so many people who did return to the project, all the magic of the original is gone too. It’s unbelievable that the movie can go so wrong when, on paper, it seems they just remade the original ID4. The plot is nearly identical–an alien mothership comes to threaten Earth. It initially causes destruction, and then there is a period of calm in which the humans regroup and concoct a crazy plan to fight back. But it seems few of the actors are having fun. Part of this is the roles they were given — Pullman’s former President Whitmore is disgraced and plagued by visions of the aliens. Goldblum’s David is no longer a savior but bumbling his way through both a romance and research into how to defeat the alien technology. David’s father, played by Hirsch, seems there to deliver bad jokes and extend the running time with a silly subplot. Yet the returning cast sparkles when compared to the new recruits. Jessie T. Usher plays Dylan Hiller–the adopted son of Smith’s now-deceased character. But Usher plays the role with a barely contained fury and stoic demeanor. If Smith sold us on the fun, Usher personifies the frustration I had with the script. Hiller is in a love triangle with two other pilots played by Maika Monroe and Liam Hemsworth–but it’s a relationship that makes no sense unless you read a dreadfully dull prequel novel. The worst part of Resurgance though is its desperation to please. The original movie felt self-contained. Every frame of Resurgence seems to scream “we’re setting up a whole slew of sequels!” The filmmakers want a profitable, renewable resource. But in the course of trying to serve future films that will never happen they utterly fail the movie at hand. Resurgence is like trying to watch a six-year-old give a stand-up routine. It’s uncomfortable to try and watch a somoene giving their all to please and failing so miserably. Independence Day: Resurgence is more than just a let down for fans of the original. If viewed in a vacuum it still has a feeble script with no fulfilling character arcs. It lacks a single character with charisma–there is no one I enjoyed watching on screen. And when compared to the original it actually makes that 1996 film seem worse. With no enjoyable characters or lines, the lamebrained plot in Resurgence gets my full attention. And it makes me realize how weak that original film was, and how the pacing and the actors carried it through. In this whole year only one movie got a one-star rating and that was Independence Day: Resurgence. I wonder if that single star was still too generous, and I hope someday aliens do come and obliterate all memory of this film from my mind.
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[nextpage title=”Conclusion” ]
Now you’ve read my 10 favorite, and single most-hated, movies of 2016. What do you think?
Leave your comments below on which films you loved, and come to our forums to talk more about it!
You can also keep up with my 2017 movies by following me on Letterboxd, and by subscribing to Now Playing Podcast!
Finally, if you want to read more of my written reviews, along with reviews by my Now Playing co-hosts Marjorie, Jakob, and Stuart, you can pre-order our book: Underrated Movies we Recommend! It has 125 reviews of movies you probably haven’t seen but we think you’ll love!
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[FINALE TRAILER] ‘BATMAN – The Telltale Series’ Season Finale Arrives This Week
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BATMAN and all characters, their distinctive likenesses, and related elements are trademarks of DC Comics © 2016. All Rights Reserved.
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Hot Toys is SNEAKY with their very limited new Iron Man figure!
With its built-in cloaking system, the Mark XV “Sneaky” armor is among the most unique armors in Tony Stark’s “House Party Protocol” in Iron Man 3. Today Sideshow has put up for order Hot Toys’ special inspired take on the armor, livening up the original’s cool dark gray color scheme to give it the Iron Man classic red-and-gold finish which first appeared in the Iron Man 3 concept art of this armor.
The Retro Armor Version of the 1/6th scale Mark XV collectible figure has the same sleek form factor as the movie version, but is given the iconic red-and-gold Iron Man coloration with newly painted and electroplated parts to mimic the original concept art design. This figure features a meticulously crafted armor equipped with LED light-up functions on eyes, arc reactor and repulsors, the unique asymmetrical forearm design, plus a specially designed dynamic figure stand and gold colored name plate.
Only available in selected markets, this exclusive Mark XV 1/6th scale figure is sure to sell out fast but it is available right now on Sideshow’s site!
The House Party can’t start without Sneaky!
Hot Toys – MMS396 – Iron Man 3 – 1/6th scale Sneaky Mark XV (Retro Armor Version) Collectible Figure Specification (Hot Toys Exclusive)
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
Special features of the 1/6th scale Sneaky Mark XV (Retro Armor Version) Collectible Figure:
– Based on the construction of Sneaky (Mark XV) from Iron Man 3
– Red-and-gold painted and electroplated armor emulating the original concept art design:
n Multiple layers and shades of red colored painting on armor
n Five (5) gold chrome armor parts throughout the body
– Approximately 31 cm tall
– Over 30 points of articulations
– LED-lighted eyes and circular-shaped arc reactor on chest (white light, battery operated)
– LED-lighted left forearm (battery operated)
– Asymmetrical forearm design
– Removable chest armor to reveal interior mechanical design
– Shin armor can be opened to reveal interior mechanical design
– Three (3) pairs of interchangeable hands including:
– One (1) pair of hands with articulated fingers and light-up repulsor (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of repulsor-firing hands (white light, battery operated)
– Articulations on waist armor allowing flexible movement
Issue 176: Sweet Christmas 2016 – Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Guide!
Happy Thanksgiving, Marvelicious Toys listeners! And welcome to our 7th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!In this issue Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Marvel Legends, movies, games, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!Then the hosts, aided by the entire Marvelicious Toys team, run down the best Marvel themed gifts for 2016. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!All this and a 2016 Toys For Tots Challenge in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!And don’t forget, while out shopping for the holidays, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/bqm8kh/MT176.mp3
Issue 175: Deadpool — I Am So Touching My Hot Toys Tonight
In a year that saw four Marvel Comics movies, including Civil War, Doctor Strange, and X-Men: Apocalypse only one came out of nowhere to turn the genre on its ear: Deadpool. Now, nine months later, Hot Toys has given birth to their Deadpool figure, based on the movie outfit. It’s sold out almost everywhere, but is the figure as good as the movie? Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie break the fourth wall to tell you!
Speaking of Marvel movies, Doctor Strange hit U.S. theaters last week. Our hosts give their impressions of the film, and how it fits in the Marvel Universe.With a tale of two Captain America shields from Hasbro, an expensive Spooktaculer, and Marvel Hot Toys figures under $100 shipped, it’s all in this loaded issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/x3b7jh/MT175.mp3
Issue 175: Deadpool — I Am So Touching My Hot Toys Tonight
In a year that saw four Marvel Comics movies, including Civil War, Doctor Strange, and X-Men: Apocalypse only one came out of nowhere to turn the genre on its ear: Deadpool. Now, nine months later, Hot Toys has given birth to their Deadpool figure, based on the movie outfit. It’s sold out almost everywhere, but is the figure as good as the movie? Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie break the fourth wall to tell you!
Speaking of Marvel movies, Doctor Strange hit U.S. theaters last week. Our hosts give their impressions of the film, and how it fits in the Marvel Universe.With a tale of two Captain America shields from Hasbro, an expensive Spooktaculer, and Marvel Hot Toys figures under $100 shipped, it’s all in this loaded issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/web/x3b7jh/MT175.mp3
Issue 174: People Are Strange When You’re a Doctor
It’s a magical time for Marvel fans! Next week Doctor Strange gets released to theaters across the US. It is already vexing audiences overseas. So to prepare for the new film, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie are reviewing the new Doctor Strange wave of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends. With three different versions of Strange himself, plus Nico, Brother Voodoo, Enchantress, Iron Fist, and more–and the build-a-figure Dormammu! Join them to find out which figures are repaints, which are new, and which you must have for your collection!
Also on this week’s show, the hosts review Hasbro’s Marvel Legends Electronic Iron Man Helmet. Plus looks at the new trailers for Logan and Guardians of the Galaxy 2, all in this special 100-minute issue of Marvelicious Toys!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/ppnm96/MT174.mp3
Issue 173: New York Comic Con 2016
This weekend saw over 160,000 fans converge at New York City’s Javitz Center. They were all there for one thing: New York Comic Con! Marvel fans found much to do, including getting autographs from John Bernthal and Evangeline Lilly, art from Adi Granov and Mark Brooks, and exclusive toys and comics galore!
For collectors NYCC holds lots of surprises. Hasbro revealed new Marvel Legends figures, Kotobukiya showed off their upcoming Bishoujo and Art-FX statues, plus displays by Sideshow, Mezco, NECA, and a dozen more companies. Even Cross Pens and Hallmark had new things for die-hard Marvel fans.
Marjorie and Arnie were on site all four days. In this issue of Marvelicious Toys you can see all the upcoming toy reveals. Plus join them for exclusive interviews with Kotobukiya, Hasbro, and John Tyler Christopher — the artist behind all the awesome action figure variant covers!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/ubfmq9/MT173.mp3
Original Star Wars, Jurassic Park, and Ghostbusters Production Materials to be Auctioned
Prop Store – one of the world’s leading film and TV memorabilia companies is to hold an exclusive online auction of puppets, models, artwork and production materials from the career of animator Phil Tippett. The veteran effects artist and filmmaker worked on some of the most beloved films of all-time, including the original Star Wars trilogy, Dragonslayer, Indiana Jones & The Temple of Doom, the Robocop films, Jurassic Park, Starship Troopers, and countless others.
Over 400 lots of historic memorabilia will go on sale in the exclusive online auction, which begins on Monday October 10th. Bidding for all items will be open until the auction closes on Friday October 21st. Many of the lots will be sold without reserve. Bidding is possible from anywhere in the world, and global shipping is available.
Phil Tippett’s professional career began as a stop-motion animator in the 1970s before being hired by George Lucas to produce the Millennium Falcon chess-game sequence for Star Wars. Tippett stayed on with ILM for several years, notably animating the Tauntauns for The Empire Strikes Back and developing “go-motion” technology for the memorable dragon Vermithrax in Dragonslayer. Tippett founded Tippett Studio in 1984 and went on to produce or supervise visual effects for Robocop, Jurassic Park, Starship Troopers, and numerous other titles. Tippett Studio continues to provide visual effects services for many projects, with Phil directing and supervising projects in addition to working on his passion project—MAD GOD.
Some of the notable items collectors and fans can bid for include:
- Trash Compactor Monster from Star Wars: A New Hope – Estimate $50,000 – 70,000
- Hand-drawn Holochess Character Sketches by Phil Tippett from Star Wars: A New Hope – sold without reserve
- ‘Duros’ Cantina Mask from Star Wars: A New Hope – Estimate $50,000 – 70,000
- Washington Square Ghost Puppet from Ghostbusters 2 – Estimate $3,000 – 5,000
- Ford Explorer Animatics Model from Jurassic Park – Estimate $3,000 – 5,000
- Robocop Costume from Robocop 2 – Estimate $30,000 – 50,000
- Warrior Bug Maquette with Tippett Studios crate from Starship Troopers – Estimate $5,000 – 7,000
- Eborsisk Monster Maquette from Willow – Estimate $2,000 – 3,000
- Screenplay with Phil Tippett’s Handwritten Story Notes from Jurassic Park – sold without reserve
- Tauntaun handwritten animation notes by Phil Tippett from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – sold without reserve
Brandon Alinger, Prop Store COO, commented on the upcoming auction: “We’re very proud to be handling this collection of materials from Phil Tippett’s amazing career in the film industry. In addition to the props, costumes, models and maquettes there is a vast collection of artwork and archival materials, many of which have never been seen before. If you’re a collector or a fan of the films Phil Tippett has been part of, this auction presents a wonderful chance to get a glimpse behind the curtain and become a caretaker of a small piece of film history.”
Phil Tippett said of the auction: “It’s been a lot of fun to take another look at these materials, some of which I haven’t seen for years. I’m glad that fans will have a chance to get them, and I hope they’ll enjoy them and look after the materials for the future. ”
The auction begins at 9:00AM PST on Monday, October 10th, with the first lots closing at 9:00AM PST on Friday, October 21st. Bids can be placed online via the Prop Store website at: http://propstoreauction.com/
Go Rogue! Order Your Star Wars Rogue One Toys Online Now!
Why go out late on a work/school night, stand in the cold, and brave the crowds only to be met by disappointment when the guy in front of you takes the last Deathtrooper Black Series figure?
There is another way–order online! Entertainment Earth just put up all the new Rogue One toys for order–and here’s a directory for each!
LEGO
LEGO Star Wars 75121 Constraction Imperial Death Trooper
LEGO Star Wars 75120 Constraction K-2SO
LEGO Star Wars 75119 Constraction Sergeant Jyn Erso
LEGO Star Wars 75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank
LEGO Star Wars 75153 AT-ST Walker
LEGO Star Wars 75154 TIE Striker
LEGO Star Wars 75155 Rebel U-Wing Fighter
LEGO Star Wars 75156 Krennic’s Imperial Shuttle
Hasbro Black Series 6-Inch Figures
Star Wars The Black Series Jyn Erso 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series Cassian Andor Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series K-2SO 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars Black Series Death Trooper 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series Kylo Ren Unmasked 6-Inch Figure
Star Wars Rogue One 3 3/4-Inch Action Figure 2-Packs Wave 1
Star Wars The Black Series 6-Inch Action Figures Wave 7 Case
Hasbro 3.75-inch Figures
Star Wars Rogue One Sergeant Jyn Erso (Eadu) Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One K-2SO Action Figure
Star Wars Rebels Kanan Jarrus (Stormtrooper Disguise) Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Ground Crew Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Rebels Sabine Wren Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Sergeant Jyn Erso Deluxe Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Imperial Death Trooper Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Glowstrike Darts
Star Wars Rogue One 3 3/4-Inch Action Figures Wave 1 Case
Funko POP! Figures
Star Wars Rogue One Jyn Erso Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Captain Cassian Andor Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One K-2SO Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Chirrut Imwe Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Baze Malbus Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Director Orson Krennic Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Scarif Stormtrooper Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Death Trooper Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Darth Vader Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One C2-B5 Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Jakks Pacific Big Figs
Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 31-Inch Stormtrooper Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One 31-Inch Death Trooper Action Figure
Hasbro Galactic Heroes
Star Wars Galactic Heroes Rivals Jedi vs. Sith Set
Hasbro Ships and Vehicles
Star Wars Rogue One Class I Vehicles Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hero Electronic Action Figures Wave 1
Star Wars Rogue One Class II Vehicles Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Value Vehicles Wave 1
Role Play Toys and Masks
Star Wars Rogue One Deluxe Class I Vehicles Wave 1
Star Wars Rogue One Masks Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 1
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 2
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Death Trooper Mask
Star Wars Stormtrooper Voice-Changer Helmet Prop Replica
Star Wars Rogue One Captain Cassian Andor Nerf Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Spin-Action Lightsaber
Star Wars Rogue One Blast Tech Lightsaber
Star Wars Electronic Darth Vader Voice Changer Helmet
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 3
Star Wars Rogue One Electronic Lightsabers Wave 4 Case
Micro Machine Sets
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines Death Star Playset
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines DX Vehicles Wave 4 Case
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines DX Vehicles Wave 4 Set
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines 3-Packs Wave 5
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines 3-Packs Wave 5 Set
Titanium Ships and Helmets
Star Wars: The Black Series Die-Cast Metal Vehicles Wave 5
Star Wars: The Black Series Die-Cast Metal Vehicles Wave 6
Board Games
Star Wars Edition Monopoly Open and Play Game
Star Wars Trivial Pursuit Game
Star Wars Operation Game
Star Wars Trouble Game
Hot Wheels
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 3 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 4 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 5 Case
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 1
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 2
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 3
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 4
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Starships Mix 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Starships Mix 2 Case
Hasbro Interactech Figures
Star Wars Rogue One Electronic Stormtrooper Action Figure
Other Toys
Star Wars: The Force Awakens RC Radio Control BB-8 Droid
Star Wars Rogue One Rebel U-Wing Fighter Vehicle
Star Wars Rogue One Rip N Go BB-8 Beeping and Moving Droid
Star Wars Rogue One TIE Striker Vehicle
Star Wars TFA Hero Series 12-Inch Action Figures Wave 6 Case
Star Wars Play-Doh AT-AT Attack Can Heads Set
Housewares
Star Wars: Rogue One 16 oz. Laser Decal Glass 2-Pack
Star Wars: Rogue One 18 oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Star Wars: Rogue One Large Tin Tote
Star Wars: Rogue 1 20 oz. Ceramic Mug
Dark Horse Comics Announces ANGEL Season 11!
MILWAUKIE, Ore., (September 26, 2016)—Buffy’s first love will receive a solo series and a “re-vamped” creative team in Angel Season 11. Corinna Bechko (Lara Croft, Star Wars: Legacy II) writes Season 11 while Geraldo Borges (Deadpool, Ghost) illustrates the series, and Michelle Madsen (Buffy Season 9, Angel & Faith Season 10) colors the issues. Scott Fischer (Angel & Faith Season 10, Buffy: The High School Years) and Jeff Dekal (Journey into Mystery, Dark Horse Presents) both created covers.
Angel Season 11 finds Angel being tormented by memories of his past. His visions link his dark past to a Big Bad coming in the future. The goddess Illyria intervenes and assists Angel as he discovers that it might be possible to change the future by traveling back in time to change the past.
Angel Season 11 writer Corinna Bechko shared her excitement for joining the Whedonverse: “I’m thrilled that I’ll be helping to add to a little corner of the Whedonverse, a rich and exciting place that contains infinite possibilities for exploration. Of course, the fact that I’ll be doing so with Angel, one of the most complex and interesting characters, means I have big shoes to fill. But I can’t wait to spend some quality time with him during this journey, and to have a bit of fun along the way!”
The first issue of Angel Season 11 goes on sale January 18, 2017, the day before Buffy’s birthday! Angel Season 11 will have twelve issues total.
Issue 172: Pumpkin Spice Goblin
The Marvelicious Toys crew is back with Venom…in space! On this new podcast they review the Space Venom wave of Marvel Legends including two Ultimate Spider-Men, Silk, Electro, Ashley Barton Spider-Girl, and Hobgoblin!
Also, next week is New York Comic Con and Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down the exclusive toys you should hunt for at the con. And if you’re going to NYCC be sure to say “hi” to our hosts!
With a new thin crust Hot Toys figure and more, it’s in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/ddj62f/MT172.mp3
NYCC Update – Dark Horse Announces Programming Schedule
Dark Horse Comics will be at New York Comic Con 2016 in Booth 1636.
They have announced both their signing and their panel schedules for the convention.
All creators signing in the Dark Horse booth offer their autographs for FREE. FREE prints, comics, or posters are provided for most of thier signings (while supplies last). You may purchase or bring items to be signed; however, they may restrict the type or number of items to be signed as necessary.
Some signings require a wristband for entry, as noted on the schedule. Drawings for wristbands for these events will begin at show opening the day before and day of each signing. Come to the Dark Horse booth early for the best chance to join these events.
Lines may also be closed for some signings due to crowding or time restrictions.
There will be two signing stages. One features art by Mike Mignola for Hellboy; the other showcases The Legend of Zelda with art from the upcoming The Legend of Zelda: Art & Artifacts. The location of each signing is indicated by the following abbreviations:
HB = Hellboy Signing Stage LZ = The Legend of Zelda Signing Stage
All events are subject to change. Some restrictions apply. Please see Dark Horse Comics staff if you have questions.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. HB CHIMICHANGA #1 NYCC EXCLUSIVE: Stephanie Buscema
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. LZ CREEPY: Dan Braun
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. HB HALO: TALES FROM SLIPSPACE: Frank O’Connor, Tyler Jeffers, Jon Goff, Marco Rudy, John Jackson Miller
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. HB TREE MAIL: Brian Smith
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. LZ SEMIAUTOMAGIC, ARCHIE VS. PREDATOR, GRINDHOUSE, SMOKE/ASHES: Alex de Campi
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. HB MASS EFFECT: Mac Walters
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. LZ LEAVING MEGALOPOLIS: Jim Calafiore
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. HB THE SECRET LOVES OF GEEK GIRLS: Hope Nicholson, Adrienne Kress, Fionna Adams
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. LZ THE SECRET LOVES OF GEEK GIRLS: Megan Lavey-Heaton, Kristen Gudsnuk, Tini Howard
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. HB BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER: Rebekah Isaacs
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. LZ CRYPTOCRACY: Van Jensen
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. HB BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, MISFITS OF AVALON: Kel McDonald
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. LZ ALABASTER: THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE BIRD, SPACE-MULLET!, THE GHOST FLEET: Daniel Warren Johnson
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. HB HELLBOY: INTO THE SILENT SEA: Gary Gianni
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. LZ ABE SAPIEN: Max Fiumara
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. HB ALEISTER & ADOLF: Douglas Rushkoff
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. LZ THE FIFTH BEATLE: THE BRIAN EPSTEIN STORY: Vivek J. Tiwary
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. HB THE BATTLES OF BRIDGET LEE, NANJING: THE BURNING CITY: Ethan Young
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. LZ TARZAN ON THE PLANET OF THE APES: David Walker
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. HB THE SHAOLIN COWBOY, THE BIG GUY AND RUSTY THE BOY ROBOT: Geof Darrow
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. LZ APOCALYPTIGIRL: Andrew MacLean
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. HB FIGHT CLUB 2, B.P.R.D. HELL ON EARTH, SIN TITULO: Cameron Stewart
FIGHT CLUB 2, KABUKI: David Mack
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. LZ ASTRID, ALENA, THE COMPLETE LOVE HURTS: Kim W. Andersson
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. HB THE MASSIVE, THE MASSIVE: NINTH WAVE: Brian Wood, Garry Brown
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. LZ PROMETHEUS: LIFE AND DEATH, REBELS: Andrea Mutti
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. HB ASTRID, ALENA, THE COMPLETE LOVE HURTS: Kim W. Andersson
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. LZ NEIL GAIMAN’S TROLL BRIDGE: Colleen Doran
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. LZ HOUSE OF PENANCE, LIGHT BRIGADE, THE MIGHTY: Peter Tomasi
1:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. HB SIN CITY: THE HARD GOODBYE CURATOR’S COLLECTION: Frank Miller
(WRISTBAND REQUIRED)
*LIMIT ONE PRINT PER PERSON
*OTHER RESTRICTIONS APPLY—SEE STAFF FOR INFO
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. HB CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS III: Larry Hama
3:00 p.m.–3:45 p.m. LZ BUFFY: THE HIGH SCHOOL YEARS, MISFITS OF AVALON: Kel McDonald
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. HB THE FIFTH BEATLE: THE BRIAN EPSTEIN STORY: Vivek J. Tiwary
4:00 p.m.–4:45 p.m. LZ PROJECT TBA, LARA CROFT AND THE FROZEN OMEN, DEEP GRAVITY: Corinna Bechko
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. HB BRIGGS LAND, REBELS: Brian Wood, Andrea Mutti
ALIENS: DEFIANCE: Brian Wood, Tristan Jones
PROMETHEUS: LIFE AND DEATH: Andrea Mutti
5:00 p.m.–5:45 p.m. LZ PROJECT TBA: Evan Dorkin, Sarah Dyer
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. HB SOUPY LEAVES HOME: Jose Pimienta
11:00 a.m.–11:45 a.m. LZ CHIMICHANGA #1 NYCC EXCLUSIVE: Stephanie Buscema
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. HB HENCHGIRL: Kristen Gudsnuk
12:00 p.m.–12:45 p.m. LZ TOMB RAIDER: Phillip Sevy
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. HB ITTY BITTY HELLBOY, AW YEAH COMICS!, GRIMMISS ISLAND: Art Baltazar, Franco
1:00 p.m.–1:45 p.m. LZ MYSTERY GIRL: Alberto J. Alburquerque
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. HB KINGSWAY WEST: Greg Pak
2:00 p.m.–2:45 p.m. LZ TREE MAIL: Brian Smith
PANEL INFORMATION:
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7
11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. DARK HORSE COMICS AND WARGAMING PRESENT: THE TRADITION OF MILITARY COMIC BOOKS PAST AND PRESENT (Room 1A21)
War stories have long been a tradition in comic books. From their birth during WWII to the late 1980s with military stories like G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, they have continually evolved. War comics switched perspective to the men deep in the conflict in War Stories and the new series World of Tanks: Roll Out. Join the expert panel of war comic scribes Garth Ennis (World of Tanks: Roll Out), Larry Hama (G.I. Joe), and Ethan Young (Nanjing: The Burning City) to explore the war comics tradition.
4:15 p.m.–5:15 p.m. ASIAN AMERICAN COMICS AND CULTURE (Room 1A05)
For years, Asian comics creators have been doing incredible work furthering the medium of sequential art. With Eisner Award–winning storytelling and phenomenal artistic expression, Asian-Pacific Americans have begun a movement within the comic business. Join Greg Pak (Kingsway West), Ethan Young (Nanjing: The Burning City), and Vivek Tiwary (The Fifth Beatle: The Brian Epstein Story) for a fascinating conversation on embracing Asian culture in comics, moderated by YouTube personality Shyaporn Theerakulstit.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8
5:15 p.m.–6:15 p.m. DARK HORSE CLASSIFIED FEATURING AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER (Room 1A18)
The can’t-miss Dark Horse panel of NYCC 2016! Join Dark Horse for the first word on Avatar news and announcements—and even a surprise or two!
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9
3:45 p.m.–4:45 p.m. THE SECRET LOVES OF GEEK GIRLS: LIVE (Room 1A24)
Join editor Hope Nicholson and an all-star lineup of female writers and illustrators, including Adrienne Kress, Fionna Adams, Kristen Gudsnuk, Meaghan Carter, Megan Lavey-Heaton, and Tini Howard, to discuss their Kickstarter sensation! The Secret Loves of Geek Girls is a nonfiction anthology mixing prose, comics, and illustrated stories on the lives and loves of an amazing cast of female creators. Featuring work by some of the most prominent women in the industry, The Secret Loves of Geek Girls is a compilation of tales told from both sides of the tables: from the fans who love video games, comics, and sci-fi to those that work behind the scenes as creators and industry insiders.
Issue 171: Nothing Can Stop the Juggernaut
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/s5ff3k/MT171.mp3
Pre-Order Marvel Exclusives! One:12 Shadowland Daredevil and Sideshow’s Wolverine/Hulk Maquette plus X-Men Legends
A couple exclusive Marvel collectibles have gone up for order in the past couple das, and collectors should act fast if they want these items!
Mallardlicious Toys
August, 1986 was a landmark for Marvel Comics fans. After years of seeing DC heroes in theaters, Marvel struck back. The very first Marvel Comics movie was released by Lucasfilm, starring actors from Back to the Future, Amadeus, and Top Gun. Before there was Iron Man there was…Howard the Duck!!
Now celebrate 30 years of duckiness! Howard the Duck stars Lea Thompson and Ed Gale join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin on this look back at the movie–and all the collectibles from it! Candy cigars, trading cards, View-Master slides, Laserdiscs, DVDs, video games, and more — all based on Lucasfilm’s adaptation of Howard.
They’re not just toys, they’re Mallardlicious!
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/mzx72j/MallardliciousToys.mp3
Issue 170: The Raft – JAILBREAK!
Abomination. Purple Man. Spider-Man. Enchantress. Sandman. Dread Knight.
What do these disparate Marvel Comics characters have in common? They
are the characters Hasbro bundled together in their 2016 San Diego
Comic-Con Exclusive Marvel Legends set — The Raft! They sold out at
the show and last Tuesday online, but now you can join the Marvelicious
Toys crew as they review these six figures! And they tell you how you
can get most of them soon.
Also
on this week’s show are reviews of the new Marvel Legends Role Play
Captain America shield. Priced at about $100, this is Hasbro’s first
entry into high end Marvel collectibles. There’s a metal shield coming
this Fall, but should you jump on the current (cheaper) version? Find
out on this show.
With
reviews of Jada Toys’ Black Widow figure, some great bargains on Marvel
Legends figures, and so much more, it’s all in this issue of
Marvelicious Toys!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/quiuke/MT170.mp3
NOW LIVE – Hasbro’s SDCC 2016 Exclusive Toys
Up for order right now are Hasbro’s 2016 San Diego Comic-Con Exclusive toys!
If you want them, read the rest of this article later. Go now to Hasbro’s order page and try to get yours!
Hasbro updated their Hasbro Toy Shop site in the early hours of Aug 9, 2016 listing all the SDCC exclusive toys that are now available. They listed them as “Out of Stock” so orders were held until the allotted time. Many of our listeners let us know they thought they had missed out on this sale and have already gone to eBay.
But now the items are online! Up for sale are:
Star Wars:
Black Series 6-Inch Obi-Wan Kenobi PackSold Out at 10:22 am CSTBlack Series 6-Inch Kylo Ren PackSold Out at 10:49 am CSTBlack Series 6-Inch Sergeant Jyn Erso PackSold Out at 10:10 am CST
Marvel:
- The Collector’s Vault 3.75-inch Legends Figure Set (with Howard the Duck!!)
The Raft 6-inch Legends Figure SetSold Out at 12:50pm CST
Transformers
- Generations Titans Return Titan Force Set
- Generation Titans Return Titan Class Fortress Maximus (Convention Edition)
- Evolution Soundwave (Convention Exclusive Featuring Tablet Mode)
Other
- My Little Pony DIscord and Fluttershy Set
- Micronauts Comic Con Set
- Visionaries: Knight of the Magical Light Mighty Muggs
- Magic the Gathering 20166 SDCC Exclusive Set
- Yo-Kai Watch Jewelnyan
So hurry to Hasbro Toy Shop and get your orders in fast! Some of these products (Magic the Gathering, all 3 Star Wars figures, and the 6-Inch Marvel Legends set for sure) won’t last long!
Good Luck
Batman: Assault on Arkham is the Original Suicide Squad!
NOTE: Now Playing Podcast and La La Land Records are giving away 5 copies of The Killing Joke limited CD Soundtrack. Follow @nowplayingpod on Twitter and retweet their pinned tweet to enter!
Starting today, DC movies are committing Suicide. Sure, everyone knows Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman – the featured characters in last Spring’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. But Killer Croc? Deadshot? Captain Boomerang? These are some lesser known characters–and the stars of the new movie Suicide Squad. With an August release date and a story of criminals out to do good, it’s obvious DC is hoping to capture some of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy magic (and dollars). Outside of comic book die-hards these characters aren’t household names, but with this film DC hopes they will be. So to prepare for this live action film, I watched another movie version of this tale: DC’s 2014 animated direct-to-video Batman: Assault on Arkham.
Like the live-action film, this cartoon tells of a “Suicide Squad” formed to infiltrate Arkham Asylum — Gotham City’s infamous sanitarium for the criminally insane. Government official Amanda Waller calls together a team of seven criminals to covertly infiltrate the prison. Batman foe The Riddler is imprisoned there, and he has a thumb drive that could expose Waller’s above-the-law operations. The group she assembles consists of five lesser-known DC baddies: Captain Boomerang, King Shark, Killer Frost, Black Spider, and the hilariously named KGBeast. For a little star power, the headliners are two more popular Batman enemies: Harley Quinn and Deadshot. For full disclosure, I certainly hadn’t heard of most of the characters in this film. When it comes to DC comics, if a character wasn’t featured in a live-action film or the ‘60s Batman TV show, odds are I don’t know them. I have seen a handful of episodes of Batman: The Animated Series though, and I find great enjoyment in several of DC’s direct-to-video animated films.
I suspect those excited by seeing Captain Boomerang and KGBeast in action are already DC Comics readers and fans. Those die-hards would excitedly pre-order a Suicide Squad animated film, because they know what that means. Instead, for marketing, this movie is called Batman: Assault on Arkham but the Dark Knight is very much a supporting player in this tale. This movie should have been called Suicide Squad, but wasn’t, I suspect, for two reasons. First, invoking Arkham in the title shows this movie is set in the universe of the immensely successful Batman: Arkham video games. In fact, the movie is a sequel to Arkham: Origins and takes place about two years before the original Arkham Asylum game. Second, giving Batman top billing appeals to more casual fans like me. Without a heavy marketing campaign like the live-action film has, I would likely skip an animated movie called Suicide Squad. Call it Batman and you have my interest. If you don’t know these characters as I didn’t, it won’t be a barrier to your enjoyment. These enslaved villains are introduced quickly with ‘70s style title cards announcing their names. Before you know it, this motley crew is rounded up and told of their mission. If they don’t comply, Waller will detonate explosives planted in their necks.
Why are these specific people chosen? Why use criminals instead of more traditional assassins? The film glosses over the answers so we can get to the action! |
| Once the titular Assault begins, the fun never ends. The plot is full of so many twists and turns I am hesitant to discuss them lest I rob you of the fun of discovery. Suffice it to say the team’s objectives change every ten to fifteen minutes, and when Quinn’s former beau The Joker shows up, it all goes sideways.
The animation is rudimentary, and I sometimes had trouble distinguishing between Deadshot and Black Spider. Even though one is African-American and the other Caucasian, the coloring muted the skin tones. Add to that identical facial hair, somewhat similar hairstyles, and my lack of familiarity with these characters, at times I found myself confused.
Despite that, this hard PG-13 cartoon did the seemingly impossible–the action excited me. This Squad isn’t afraid to kill some cops in brutal ways. In truth, I haven’t seen so many decapitations since David Cronenberg’s original Scanners! Not only are nameless guards and cops taken out, but so are some characters from DC Comics. The team is called a Suicide Squad and, surely enough, some of them don’t survive the mission. This feeling that all the characters are at risk upped the suspense–no one feels safe in this cartoon. If you know these characters, if you are steeped in the Arkham video game universe, I can only imagine your enjoyment is even greater than mine. I did, however, become giddy when Poison Ivy, Bane, Penguin, and other characters I actually knew, made minor appearances.
Beyond violence, there is a PG level sex scene, and some “almost see it” nudity with the femme fatales Quinn and Frost. What the film lacks in visuals, it makes up for in the score. The music is omnipresent and sets a mood that the script and characterizations sometimes fail to do. But I found myself tapping my fingers throughout. The voice acting is also well done. Nearly all the actors, including Kevin Conroy (Batman), C.C.H. Pounder (Waller), and Jennifer Hale (Killer Frost), have played these characters for years. Their familiar performances were welcome. Newcomers Greg Ellis (Captain Boomerang), Neal McDonough (Deadshot) and Giancarlo Esposito (Black Spider) also do very well.
I did, however, truly miss Mark Hamill and Arleen Sorkin, the respective voices of The Joker and Harley Quinn since the ‘90s Batman: The Animated Series and several of the Batman: Arkham games. Both had retired from the role (though Hamill reprised in this year’s Batman: The Killing Joke). Troy Baker and Hynden Walch are fine in the roles, but I felt a lack of menace and chaos from both. While Batman: Assault on Arkham is by no means a perfect movie, its manic action is a blast. The script does an admirable job of introducing the characters and the “Suicide Squad” concept. And, based on the trailers, I strongly suspect today’s live-action Suicide Squad took many beats from this animated version. I give Assault on Arkham a solid Recommend. Now Playing Podcast’s review of Suicide Squad will be released Tuesday, Aug 9th! Buy Batman: Assault on Arkham now on Blu-Ray Buy Batman: The Killing Joke now on Blu-Ray Hear Now Playing Podcast’s entire Batman movie review series. *Note: There are no plans for Now Playing Podcast to do podcast reviews of the direct-to-video DC Animated films. |
Review – Batman: The Killing Joke (Out today on Blu-Ray!)
| NOTE: Now Playing Podcast and La La Land Records are giving away 5 copies of The Killing Joke limited CD Soundtrack. Follow @nowplayingpod on Twitter and retweet their pinned tweet to enter!
I would love to see [The Killing Joke] depicted in animation style with Mark Hamill coming back, cuz I’m hearing Mark Hamill’s voice the whole time I’m reading the Joker’s lines anyway.
The animated movie adaptation of Batman: The Killing Joke is every bit as disturbing and entertaining as Alan Moore’s original graphic novel. DC Comics and Warner Bros. Animation have been pushing the envelope with direct-to-video superhero movies. Violent deaths, sex scenes, and a peppering of profanity can be seen in several cartoon films, including Batman: Assault on Arkham, Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and Batman vs Robin. Given this teen-audience aim, I hoped for The Killing Joke to get adapted since first reading it in 2012. I was excited when the project was announced, and nearly ecstatic that it would be shown in theaters for two nights by Fathom Events*. This seemed to raise the bar — would this be a Batman animated film on par with Nolan and Burton’s live-action movies? The answer is “no”. But it’s close. The final 40 minutes of The Killing Joke ranks among the best I’ve seen on screen–big screen or small. But it takes a while to get there. Writer Alan Moore and artist Brian Bolland’s 48-page graphic novel is too short for feature-length. To pump this movie to 76 minutes (still 4 minutes shy of the Screen Actors Guild definition of a film) producer Bruce Timm and writer Brian Azzarello padded the script with a 30-minute first act. This is a separate story entirely from The Killing Joke. The Joker is nowhere to be seen, and Commissioner Gordon only appears briefly.
The film’s first dialogue is Batgirl breaking the fourth wall, saying, “I realize this is probably not how you thought the story would start, not with a big shiny moon or a city that could look stunning in spite of itself. Or me.” She’s right. Batgirl, also known as Barbara Gordon, is the star of this first act. Tara Strong returned to voice this character who she’s portrayed since 1997. The story is of Batgirl’s pursuit of sociopathic gangster Paris Franz, who is obsessed with the spandex-wearing crimefighter. He wants to date, or rape, her–and he doesn’t seem to care which it is. But Batgirl is infatuated with someone else–Batman. Interludes show Barbara working in the library and discussing the emotionally distant man she desires. Batman, on the other hand, shows only a professional interest in his younger trainee, which lends their relationship almost a 50 Shades of Gray quality. She desperately wants him to love her–he only wants the violence. The result is truly a romantic drama painting Barbara Gordon as a lonely, pining librarian. Are we supposed to cheer when Batgirl finally pins Batman and plants a kiss on his lips, bedding The Bat? I truly don’t know.
I do find this story reductive. Batgirl can kick ass but here she’s defined only by her desire for love. Batman refusing to return her calls after their one night stand is trite soap-opera melodrama. Yet I understand why Timm and Azzarello put this in the movie. Yes, they needed to extend the running time, but this also gives Barbara Gordon context. It can be presumed readers of The Killing Joke know her heroic history as Batgirl, but a movie audience needs to be shown. Also, Moore has been accused of misogyny for what happens to Barbara in his story — she is barely featured other than to be tortured. This fleshes out her character. Her monologue continues: “I wanted you to know that before the horror began, before it all came crashing down, there was a time when capes and cowls and fighting crime was really exciting.” The filmmakers needed to make her a hero to deepen her character, and to make what happens later all the more tragic. The end result feels like Watchmen-lite. Batgirl and Batman shagging reminded me of Silk Spectre and Nite Owl. They are turned on by the fight, and the costumes. Yet this lacks Moore’s subtlety or postmodern commentary. It is simply a cartoon relationship.
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30 minutes into this film, Batgirl’s role is diminished. Batman enters Arkham Asylum to talk to The Joker, and Moore and Bolland’s Killing Joke begins. This second half of The Killing Joke movie is a direct, almost line-for-line recreation of the graphic novel. Moore is uncredited as he dislikes movies based on his comics, but the spirit and words from his graphic novel are displayed large on the screen. Many fans are ardent enthusiasts of Moore’s works and here, like in the 2009 film adaptation of Watchmen, it seems the source material is treated to reverential to alter. It seems there is a paralysis of creativity, a fear of changing Moore’s words. This extends also to Bolland’s art style. The on-screen Batman and Joker look radically different than in previous cartoons…and identical to Bolland’s graphic novel designs. This sticks out as many of the minor characters, including Barbara Gordon and the Joker’s circus freak gang, are drawn in a style much more in line with Timm’s previous works like Batman: The Animated Series. The Joker flachbacks are also colored like the original comic.
In animation, using a computer to create smooth motion between two still images is called “tweening”. This movie almost feels like they scanned in Bolland’s pages and Moore’s script and “tweened” them to create a film. The voice actors range in quality. While Kevin Conroy has portrayed Batman since the beginning of Batman: The Animated Series in 1992, his portrayal is rather flat. Never do I hear a Batman on the verge of homicide. However, Mark Hamill shines as The Joker. Hamill famously retired from this role after the acclaimed video game Batman: Arkham Knight. In a pre-movie featurette Hamill mocks himself for saying that, and explains the promise of doing Moore’s classic story enticed him back. He is absolutely amazing. His vocal intonations drip with evil menace. He even performs an atonal, amoral musical number “I Go Looney” — finally giving music to Moore’s words. And he does it with aplomb. He shines as much as Jack Nicholson or Heath Ledger in this role. So close to the release of Suicide Squad, this sets a high bar for Jared Leto, as many Bat-fans will have Hamill fresh in their minds.
While Joker’s song may not have you humming along, its chaotic sound is perfect for the scene. Yet I was more impressed by the film’s score (revealed in a post-film featurette to be fully orchestrated). The music is bombastic and deep and may be my favorite Bat-score since Danny Elfman’s originals. The score, including “I Go Looney” is available on a limited edition CD from La La Land Records. Twin Peaks star Ray Wise voices Commissioner Gordon. His first time performing this role, his participation seems a bit of typecasting. He is best known for playing the grieving father of Laura Palmer in that ‘90s ABC series. Here he is again a father in despair over the violence Joker does to his daughter Barbara. His performance is mostly relegated to wails and moans while his character is dragged around naked on a leash. For this, Wise is suitably adequate.
Yet for the implied nudity and violence, and for its R rating, The Killing Joke is remarkably mild. A sex scene ends with a glimpse of a bra. Someone is shot and covered in blood, but their clothes aren’t even torn. There is some cursing, but they never even use the single F-word allowed in PG-13 films, let alone a tirade of profanity R ratings have. I believe the rating is more a publicity stunt than a reflection of the film’s content. I’ve seen far worse violence and language in live-action PG-13 films. Yet this R rating tells adult fans “this is for you” and, perhaps intentionally, prevents younger fans from getting in. An R rating is a rule enforced by theaters, whereas PG-13 is a guideline for parents. The Killing Joke doesn’t earn an R rating, but it is best if it keeps out kids aged 8 or under. All told, if fans of Moore’s graphic novel can make it through the Batgirl Romance story they should be pleased with the final 40 minutes of The Killing Joke. It is a violent and trippy Batman tale, just like the source material. Recommend The Blu-Ray and DVD will be released Aug 2, 2016 Hear Now Playing Podcast’s entire Batman movie review series. *Note: There are no plans for Now Playing Podcast to cover the direct-to-video DC Animated films. |
Issue 169: Marvel Collecting at San Diego Comic-Con 2016
For Marvel collectors, keeping up with all the news out of 2016’s San Diego Comic-Con International can be overwhelming. Waves of new Legends from Hasbro, new Hot Toys sixth scale figures on display, Kotobukiya, Gentle Giant, Mezco, NECA, Sideshow Collectibles, and so much more!
If you couldn’t keep up, or if you want to experience the excitement of the convention, join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin in this full-video coverage of San Diego Comic-Con! Recorded live on the floor, plus around the convention, the Marvelicious Toys hosts run down the most exciting news and reveals from the show!
Plus watch exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Gentle Giant, Kotobukiya, Jada Toys, and Diamond Select Toys.
It’s like being at the con without the sore back and tired feet! So watch this super-sized Marvelicious Toys show now!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/26iegg/MT169.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusives – Iron Man Mark VII Sub Zero and Iron Man Mark VI Die Cast
Hot Toys has added 2 more Iron Man figures to their roster today–but they may not stick around for long!
First is the Iron Man Mark VII Sub Zero armor. Being a regional exclusive, this one will be the first to sell out. Official image and text below:
The Iron Man Mark VII has been a favorite armor among Iron Man fans as many collectors have sought after the original sixth scale Mark VII and Hot Toys’ originally designed Mark VII (Stealth Mode Version) collectible figures since their debut.
Sideshow and Hot Toys are excited to introduce yet another original take on this iconic armor by presenting the new sixth scale Mark VII (Sub-Zero Version) Collectible Figure!
The Sub-Zero version Mark VII’s design is inspired by the concept of Tony Stark creating a specialized armor for carrying out missions in the frigid zones with its color scheme acting as camouflage to conceal itself in areas filled with heavy snow.
The Mark VII (Sub-Zero Version) Collectible Figure is only available exclusively in selected markets and features multiple layers and various shades of white and light gray colors on armor with white carbon-fiber like designs, Stark Industries decals at various parts of the armor, LED light-up functions, interchangeable armor parts, and a specially designed white colored dynamic figure stand.
This extremely stylish Sub-Zero version Mark VII collectible figure will be an excellent addition to your Iron Man collection!
You can pre-order the Sub-Zero Iron Man Mark VII now at Sideshow Collectibles.
Second is a new version of The Avengers‘ Iron Man Mark VI, now with a die-cast body and new accessories. And the exclusive edition comes with a separate Iron Man helmet with light-up features.
The official description is:
Many fans have considered the Iron Man Mark VI one of their favorite Iron Man suits that Tony Stark has used in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Featuring an all-new arc reactor core and new triangular shape design, the Mark VI is able to fend off Hammer Drones and withstand the powerful lightning strikes from the mighty Thor! Sideshow and Hot Toys are thrilled to revisit this fan-favorite suit and officially introduce the brand new sixth scale collectible figure of Mark VI as seen in Marvel’s The Avengers for the MMS Diecast Series!
The highly-accurate collectible figure is made of diecast material, and crafted with phenomenal details that astonish fans with its high level of authenticity!
The over 32cm tall diecast figure has an array of features including a newly developed helmeted head sculpt of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, interchangeable LED light-up helmet, movie-accurate proportion and highly detailed armor design with fully enhanced articulations, specially applied metallic painting on armor, interchangeable weapons and battle damaged armor parts, LED light-up functions on eyes, palms, lower chest and forearms, and a specially designed LED light-up Stark Tower-themed figure stand.
Do not miss out on the opportunity to have this new Mark VI in your Iron Man collection!
Pre-Order the Die Cast Iron Man Mark VI Now at Sideshow Collectibles
Samsung Partners with Warner Bros. Pictures for Suicide Squad VR Experience – Premiering at SDCC
Today, Samsung announced its partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures to bring exclusive virtual reality (VR) content and experiences to fans of the highly anticipated film Suicide Squad.
The VR content, which Samsung will debut at Co
mic-Con 2016 along with other Suicide Squad-themed immersive experiences, transports viewers into a scene from the film and features their favorite characters like Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), Deadshot (Will Smith) and Katana (Karen Fukuhara).
Using Samsung Gear VR powered by Oculus, the VR content will debut at San Diego Comic-Con on July 21. It will transport fans into the world of Suicide Squad, experiencing what it’s like being a member of the Squad and watching their favorite characters, like Harley Quinn, Deadshot and Katana, in a scene from the film. It will be available on August 5 on Samsung VR, the brand’s premium virtual reality content service.
“Suicide Squad is one of the most anticipated films of the year and we’re thrilled to team up with Warner Bros. in this innovative way,” said Marc Mathieu, Samsung Electronics America’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Connecting with fans through immersive VR and 360 storytelling and breakthrough experiences gives Samsung yet another opportunity to explore how our technology can enhance popular culture.”
Gene Garlock, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Promotional Alliances and Partnerships, Warner Bros. Pictures, stated, “We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Samsung Electronics via such a broad and inventive partnership. Our collective aim is to reward fans of the property both in the consumer market and by giving them the chance to immerse themselves in a virtual environment alongside the Suicide Squad characters in a most realistic and exciting way.”
Samsung will provide fans exclusive content and experiences throughout the summer, including:
Nationwide Retail Promotion
Fans who purchase a Samsung Galaxy tablet* at leading retailers, will receive two tickets to see Suicide Squad when it opens in theaters August 5. The national retail promotion will run from July 15 through August 20, or while supplies last. For more information and a list of participating retailers, please visit SamsungPromotions.com/SuicideSquad.
San Diego Comic-Con
At San Diego Comic-Con from July 21 through 24, Samsung will help bring the film to life by transforming the Samsung Experience into a real-life Suicide Squad experience. The Belle Reve penitentiary, the high security prison in which the Suicide Squad themselves are held, will be recreated in the space and fans will have the chance to take part in immersive film-themed experiences, such as getting a custom tattoo in Harley Quinn’s tattoo parlor.
Attendees will have the option to ‘Join the Squad’, an interactive feature which enables them to create their own Suicide Squad character and generate a short video of themselves to share on their social channels. Fans can then create their own personalized skulls using the icon generator to live print them on their own exclusive t-shirt. In addition to the exclusive VR content debuting at Comic-Con, cast members will make an appearance in the space.
US Premiere
Samsung will celebrate the movie as an official partner for the U.S. premiere of Suicide Squad on August 1 in New York City, including the after-party. Samsung will create interactive experiences throughout the space to give attendees a chance to immerse themselves into the film using Samsung technology. Select Galaxy owners will also get exclusive red carpet access and a chance to see the film first.
Programming at Samsung 837
To coincide with the movie’s world premiere in New York City, Samsung 837, the brand’s experiential flagship where technology and culture collide in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, will feature special Suicide Squad VR content in the flagship’s VR Tunnel throughout the week of August 1.
*Qualifying devices are: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2, Samsung Galaxy View and Samsung Galaxy Tab ProS
Gentle Giant Daredevil Jumbo Figure Cancelled? Is This Line in Trouble?
Has Gentle Giant’s Jumbo Daredevil figure been cancelled? It sure seems that way.
Their 12-inch Daredevil figure was announced in October, 2015. I immediately pre-ordered from Big Bad Toy Store, anxious to not miss out on any of these Secret Wars replicas – 12-inch reproductions made from scans of Mattel’s original ’80s figures.
However today I received notice from BBTS my order was cancelled. The reason? This figure is not being made! The full text read:
Hello,
We have been informed by the manufacturer that they will not be producing the GG10720 12″ Daredevil (Secret Wars) . Unfortunately this means we must cancel our preorders for this item. We apologize for the inconvenience and greatly appreciate your understanding. If this item is re-solicited in the future, we will be sure to publish it on our website once again.
We are disappointed our vendor is unable to fulfill this item and apologize again for the inconvenience. Thank you for your continued business.
Sincerely,
BBTS Customer Care
There have not been any new Jumbo Marvel figures announced for several months. While Gentle Giant has two DC Comics based Jumbo Figures as 2016 San Diego Comic-Con exclusives, Marvel collectors only have some mini Secret Wars bobbleheads to buy.
Is this the first sign of the end of Gentle Giant’s Marvel Jumbo Figure line? We have reached out to Gentle Giant for comment, but as of this post we have not heard back.
If we don’t hear back before, we have an interview scheduled with Gentle Giant next week at SDCC, so we’ll be sure to get the details then!
Follow all the SDCC Marvel Collecting news at MarveliciousToys.com
Dark Horse publishes collection of Kristen Gudsnuk’s “Henchgirl”
HENCHGIRL, THE VILLAIN WITH A HEART OF GOLD
Dark Horse publishes collection of Kristen Gudsnuk’s “Henchgirl”
MILWAUKIE, Ore., July 12, 2016 — Dark Horse is excited to announce the trade publication of the Henchgirl collection from Kristen Gudsnuk. Henchgirl is a unique series that subverts the typical superhero trope by telling the story from the perspective of a villain.
Originally published by Scout Comics, Henchgirl depicts the complexities of Mary Posa’s life. The daughter of Crepe City’s most famous superhero couple, Mary deals with the pressure of disappointing her family while avoiding the wrath of Monsieur Butterfly, her supervillain boss. Cursed with a conscience, Mary does everything she can to be something other than a henchgirl, but her plans for freedom always go awry.
Henchgirl creator Kristen Gudsnuk described the parallels between Mary’s life and her own: “A lot of Henchgirl comes from my own experiences of being a twenty-something stuck in a dead-end job. Luckily, I turned to comics instead of villainy. I’ve always loved filtering superhero and pop culture tropes through my own cynical perspective.”
The Henchgirl trade goes on sale March 29, 2017.
Henchgirl is a favorite of comic book fans:
“There’s an incredible balance of humor and darkness of the soul in this series…Henchgirl is the best book you’re not reading and it has everything you want from the genre.” — Comic Bastards
“Lovely and endearing but funny and clever [at] the same time.” — Girls Like Comics
Issue 168: The Collector’s Paradise
Two weeks from tonight begins San Diego Comic-Con International 2016! The reveals, the exclusives, the panels, the giveaways, the celebrities, and the fans! There covering all the new Marvel collecting news is the Marvelicious Toys team, and on this podcast they run down all the new exclusive reveals. Plus, they have a hands on review of the still unannounced Hasbro 3.75-inch exclusive set featuring The Collector, Cosmo the Spacedog, Moon boy, Lockjaw, and Howard the Duck. Find out if this is a set you’ll need to have in your collection.
Also on this week’s show, a look at a new and shiny Hot Toys exclusive Iron Man, a review of the Walgreens exclusive Marvel Legends Namor figure, and a Podbean backer picked review of a Deadpool collectible!
All that and more in this extra-long episode of the Marvelicious Toys Podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/vwzq6z/MT168.mp3
Issue 167: Tickets to the Gun Show
Convention
season is in full effect! This past weekend saw major cons in D.C.,
Phoenix, and California. For our Marvelicious hosts Arnie and Marjorie,
however, the place to be was Philadelphia, PA — along with Lea
Thompson, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Hayley Atwell, Dominic Cooper,
Stanley Tucci, and Tom Hiddleston! All these celebrities, and dozens
more, were gathered at Wizard World Philadelphia. On this show, hear a
report from the floor — the good, the bad, and the photo ops!
But
coming soon is the world’s bigest convention: San Diego Comic-Con
International! Every year the exclusives are enough to fill a room and
break the bank, and the reveals and pre-orders have already begun!
Kotobukiya, Mezco, Monogram International, and Diamond Select toys all
have revealed some or all of their offerings — and it appears Hasbro’s
3.75-inch Legends set has leaked to eBay! Listen to find out what has
been revealed and how much you should budget this year.
Finally,
on this show hear an overview of the new Marvel Legends 6-inch figures
put up for pre-order. Three new waves, X-Men, Spider-Man, and Captain
America, all went up for order–and one of those waves is already
selling out across the web!
All that and more in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys Podcast!
And
don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We
need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular
full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: http://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/feed/ephtsg/MT167.mp3
CIVIL WAR: Choose your side – VOD on 9/2 or Blu-Ray on 9/13!
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| Captain America: Civil War comes home! Video on Demand Sep 2, Blu-Ray Sep 13!
The year’s best action film, Captain America: Civil War has a release date set. The question is: can your home theater handle all the heroes on screen? Featuring Captain America and Iron Man, along with Winter Soldier, Black Widow, Falcon, Vision, Black Panther, Scarlet Witch, Hawkeye, Ant-Man, Spider-Man, War Machine, and more, this is the biggest super-hero movie ever and it’s coming to your home! A 3-D Blu-Ray deluxe set will be released, alongside a regular Blu-Ray. Bonus features include a commentary by directors Anthony and Joe Russo, “United We Stand, Divided We Fall” – a two-part making-of documentary, deleted and extended scenes, and more! Hear Now Playing Podcast’s full review of the movie, then head to Amazon.com now and get your pre-order in! The full press release about Civil War is below.
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Pre-Order Alert: Mezco SDCC Exclusive Captain America One:12 Collective Figure
Mezco’s SDCC 2016 exclusives are up for pre-order now!
In addition to a Dawn of Justice Armored Batman and a plush Thundercats Snarf, they have their Classic Captain America One:12 Collective 6-inch figure. If you’re not going to SDCC this year, or if you just want to guarantee yours, you can order it now!
One:12 Collective Captain America: Deluxe Classic Version Con Exclusive – Mezco Toyz
Featuring over 32 articulation points, intricate sculptural work, incredible costume detailing and tons of accessories, the final product creates an iconic classic vision with a “real world” look. This exclusive, limited-edition not only features a new classic head sculpt and vibrantly colored uniform, but is packaged in an exclusive shield-shaped metal tin featuring a lenticular transformation chamber.
The One:12 Collective Classic Captain America features:
- Hyper-realistic portraits
- 1:12 scaled, highly realistic fabric classic uniform with special simulated duralumin scale armor
- Detailed sculpted costume accents, including belt, gloves, and boots
- Gauntlets with magnetic attachments
- Super articulated body with over 32 points of articulation
What’s in the box:
- Classic style masked portrait with pronounced wings
- Unmasked Steve Rogers portrait
- Fists (L&R)
- “Thumbs Up” hand (L)
- Saluting hand (R)
- Pointing hand (R)
- Posing hands (L&R)
- Holding hands (L&R)
- Shield throwing hands (L&R)
- Shield with magnetic attachments
- Harness with magnetic attachment
- Knife (fits in sheath on the boot)
- Grenade set (can clip onto the back of the belt)
- Interchangeable pouch and canteen (can clip onto the belt)
- Display base with posing post
Packaged in a deluxe, limited edition circular tin featuring Captain America’s shield design. When the tin is opened, a lenticular image is revealed. The lenticular dramatically shows the transformation of Steve Rogers from a scrawny weakling into a chiseled super-soldier. Beneath the lenticular, the figure and his accessories are securely held by collector friendly trays.
This Convention Exclusive will only be available on the Mezco website or at San Diego Comic Con at Mezco’s booth #3445.
Issue 167: Tickets to the Gun Show
Convention season is in full effect! This past weekend saw major cons in D.C., Phoenix, and California. For our Marvelicious hosts Arnie and Marjorie, however, the place to be was Philadelphia, PA — along with Lea Thompson, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Hayley Atwell, Dominic Cooper, Stanley Tucci, and Tom Hiddleston! All these celebrities, and dozens more, were gathered at Wizard World Philadelphia. On this show, hear a report from the floor — the good, the bad, and the photo ops!
But coming soon is the world’s bigest convention: San Diego Comic-Con International! Every year the exclusives are enough to fill a room and break the bank, and the reveals and pre-orders have already begun! Kotobukiya, Mezco, Monogram International, and Diamond Select toys all have revealed some or all of their offerings — and it appears Hasbro’s 3.75-inch Legends set has leaked to eBay! Listen to find out what has been revealed and how much you should budget this year.
Finally, on this show hear an overview of the new Marvel Legends 6-inch figures put up for pre-order. Three new waves, X-Men, Spider-Man, and Captain America, all went up for order–and one of those waves is already selling out across the web!
All that and more in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys Podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/ephtsg/MT167.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Scarlet Witch MMS – Civil War Version
Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War has been critically acclaimed and enjoyed by audience around the world since its release! As the Avengers’ actions in Lagos have caused collateral damage where innocent people are killed, the Sokovia Accords proposed by the United Nations has divided the Earth’s mightiest heroes into opposing teams led by Captain America and Iron Man!
Today Hot Toys put up for pre-order the 1/6th scale collectible figure of the gorgeous and powerful member of Team Cap –Scarlet Witch!
The highly-accurate collectible is specially crafted based on the image of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in the film featuring head sculpt with long curly brown real fabric hair and new makeup application, brand-new and specially tailored costume, interchangeable hands with red translucent fingertips and effect accessories to simulate Scarlet Witch using her powers, and an Captain America: Civil War themed figure stand. Furthermore, an approximately 2.5cm tall miniature running Ant-Man is included as a bonus accessory!
Do not miss out on the opportunity to add the stunning new Scarlet Witch to your collection today!
Hot Toys – MMS370 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
The 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch Collectible Figure features:
- – Authentic and detailed likeness of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in Captain America: Civil War
- – Head sculpt with movie-accurate facial expression, new makeup application, and long curly light-brown real fabric hair implantation
- – Body with over 28 points of articulations
- – Approximately 28 cm tall
- – Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
- – One (1) pair of relaxed hands
- – One (1) pair of hands with red translucent fingertips for power-using effects accessories
- – One (1) gesturing right hand with red translucent fingertips
- – Two (2) gesturing left hands with red translucent fingertips
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume :
- – One (1) red colored top
- – One (1) red colored leather-like coat
- – One (1) pair of black leather-like pants
- – One (1) pair of black boots
- Accessories:
- – One (1) necklace
- – Two (2) types of power effects accessories
- – Captain America: Civil War themed Team Captain America figure stand with character’s nameplate and the movie logo
Bonus Accessory:
- – One (1) miniature Ant-Man in running position (Approximately 2.5cm tall)
Are you bewitched yet? Then head over and order now!
Issue 166: I Can Do This All Day
Captain America: Civil War is a bona fide blockbuster, but more importantly it was a great movie! This superhero monster mash had action and heart. But now that we’ve seen the movie, it’s time to talk about the toys! Join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin on this Marvelicious Toys Podcast as they review the Giant Man wave of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends, including the Civil War incarnations of Cap, Iron Man, Black Panther, and Scott Lang Giant Man.
Also on this week’s show, the hosts look at the new pre-orders for the Iron Studios’ Black Panther, S.H. Figuarts’ Tony Stark (from Iron Man 3), and more!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/8a7b7t/MT166.mp3
Pre-Order Alert: Black Panter CIVIL WAR Statue by Iron Studios
Sideshow Collectibles is now distributing statues for a new company — Iron Studios. And today they put up for pre-order a quarter-scale statue of Black Panther, as seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s film Captain America: Civil War.
This gorgeously sculpted piece shows T’Challa in his vibranium outfit, crouched atop a rock outcropping. His claws are extended, he’s ready to strike!
The statue is hand-painted polystone and stands over 22-inches tall. You can order it now through Sideshow’s site.
Issue 165: Push It. Push It Real Good!
Salt and Pepper’s here, and they’re pushing it with awesome quarter-scale, high quality custom statues–with exceedingly low production numbers. Spider-Gwen, Magneto, Spider-Ham, Captain Marvel, and more have been released. Marjorie and Arnie just got their hands on the Spider-Gwen — listen in for a full review!
Also on this week’s show, it’s CIVIL WAR! Arnie and Justin are #TeamIronMan, and Marjorie is #TeamCap. How do the three get along after seeing the new Captain America movie? Listen to see if they fight their way out of this one.
With a new (ish) wave of Marvel Legends only available in the UK, more chase Funko POP! Deadpools, a look at the new Civil War Legends 3-Pack, and so much more, it’s all in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/gyf9ca/MT165.mp3
Ranking The Avengers Movies Before CIVIL WAR
Captain America: Civil War is released in theaters today. This first film in “Phase 3” of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has a huge character roster. Its spotlight scene in trailers and marketing show over a dozen Marvel characters on screen duking it out. With Iron Man, Ant-Man, Spider-Man, and a full Avengers roster, Civil War feels less like a third Captain America movie, and more like the culmination of everything that has come before.
In preparation for this superhero “Monster Mash” here is a recap of the first two phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, ranked from worst to best!
Issue 164: we know we’ll get more hits if we put SPIDER-GWEN in the title
Call this episode of Mavelicious Toys “Bounty” because we’re all about absorption! Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they provide hands-on reviews of all 8 figures in the Marvel Legends wave of Spider-Man themed figures and an Absorbing Man Crusher Creel Build-A-Figure. From Morbius to Beetle, Venom to Jack-O-Lantern, and the super-popular SPIDER-GWEN, we review them all!
Also on this week’s show, a look forward to Captain America: Civil War! It’s out next weekend, and the hosts are hyped. Find out about even more exclusives from Funko and your local movie theater.
With a silly hunt for Playmation figures, three new burning hot Hot Toys, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/v537yb/MT164.mp3
Now Playing Podcast Host Jakob Interviews Harvey Pekar
This week Now Playing Podcast continues reviewing films based on DC Comics with American Splendor*, the biopic about the life of Harvey Pekar. Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob will be reviewing and analyzing this Academy Award winning film.
But before Jakob was an author and podcaster on Now Playing Podcast, he was host of Comicpocalypse — a Venganza Media podcast covering all areas of comic books. On that show Jakob performed several interviews with comic creators. In 2008, the Comicpocalypse guest was Pekar in a two-part interview.
While Comicpocalypse ended later in 2008 and its shows are no longer online, we are proud to make available this two-part interview as an introduction to Now Playing’s movie review.
Comicpocalypse – Harvey Pekar Interview Pt 1
Comicpocalypse – Harvey Pekar Interview Pt 2
Hear Now Playing’s review of American Splendor starting April 19th at NowPlayingPodcast.com
*Yes, American Splendor had several publishers, but several issues were published by DC’s Vertigo imprint
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Mk 46 from Civil War
“You just started a war!”
Today, #TeamIronMan gets love from Hot Toys. Up for pre-order now is the 1/6th scale collectible figure of Tony Stark’s new Iron Man armor – the Mark XLVI to the Hot Toys MMS Diecast series which the collectible figure is made of diecast material, and realistically designed to look even more like the armor as it appears in the film.
The highly-accurate Mark XLVI collectible figure is greatly detailed and specially crafted based on the image of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man Mark XLVI in Captain America: Civil War. It features a newly sculpted Tony Stark head sculpt, an interchangeable helmeted head, sophistically developed sleek and streamline designed armor, 28 LED light-up points throughout the body, specially applied metallic red, gold and silver colored painting on armor, real-like thrust fire accessories, the helmet of Captain America, and a specially designed debris diorama figure stand.
Do not pass up on the opportunity to add the leader of Team Iron Man to your prized collection!
Check out the gallery below and get your order in now!
Hot Toys – MMS353D16 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scale Mark XLVI Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series Diecast ~
The 1/6th scale Mark XLVI Collectible features:
- – Authentic and detailed likeness of Mark XLVI in Captain America: Civil War
- – Newly sculpted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark in the movie
- – Alternate helmeted head with LED light-up function (white light, battery operated)
- – Approximately 32 cm tall
- – Metallic red, gold and silver colored painting on the sleek and streamline Mark XLVI armor design
- – Contains diecast material
- – 28 LED light-up points throughout parts of the armor (white light, battery operated)
- – Chest armor can be detached to reveal interior mechanical design
- – Interchangeable shoulder armor (regular, missile firing)
- – Fully deployed air flaps at back of the armor
- – Four (4) pairs of interchangeable hands including:
- – One (1) pair of fists
- – One (1) pair of hands with articulated fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated)
- – One (1) pair of battle palms with light-up repulsor (white light, battery operated)
- – One (1) pair of hands with real-like thrust fire effect
- – Articulations on waist armor which allow flexible movement
Accessories:
- – One (1) 1/6th scale Captain America helmet
- – Two (2) real-like thrust fire accessories attachable to the feet of the figure
- – Debris diorama figure stand with with Mark XLVI nameplate and the movie logo
UPDATE: Hot Toys MOVIE PROMO Captain America on WAITLIST!
UPDATE: The Movie Promo Captain America is now on Wait List, less than 48 hours after going up for order. If you want this figure, the best chance is to get on the list fast.
I said this item would sell out fast and it has. Get on the list now and cross your fingers. Good luck!
If you’re #TeamCap you will want to hurry to Sideshow Collectibles! The new Movie Promo figure is up for pre-order: Captain America – Battling Version. These Movie Promo edition figures are very limited and usually sell out fast, demanding top dollar on the secondary market. With Civil War just a couple weeks away, it’s a sure bet this won’t be in stock for long!
Also up for pre-order is another member of #TeamCap — Scarlet Witch! But this is Wanda from Age of Ultron in her badass “New Avengers” outfit worn at the film’s final scene.
Keep your Avengers team growing with these two new figures…but if you can only order one, trust me…get the Cap.
The specs on these figures:
Hot Toys – MMS360 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scale Captain America (Battling Version) Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
The 1/6th scale Captain America Collectible Figure specially features:
- – Authentic and detailed likeness of Chris Evans as Captain America in Captain America: Civil War
- – One (1) Captain America helmeted head sculpt
- – One (1) newly painted un-helmeted head sculpt
- – Movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture
- – Newly developed body with over 30 points of articulations which naturally portray Captain America’s muscular body in the film
- – Specially applied battle weathering effects on costume
- – Approximately 31 cm tall
- – Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:
- – One (1) pair of fists
- – One (1) pair of shield holding palms
- – One (1) shield throwing right palm
- – One (1) shield catching left palm
- – One (1) finger pointing right palm
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume:
- – One (1) newly tailored Captain America suit with star emblem and red and white patterns
- – One (1) pair of newly tailored blue embossed patterned pants with pouches, knee pads, and red trims
- – One (1) pair of fabric coated elbow pads
- – One (1) pair of fabric coated knee pads
- – One (1) brown leather-like back shield holder and body strap
- – One (1) brown leather-like belt with pouches
- – One (1) pair of black boots
Weapon:
- – One (1) metal circular red and blue Captain America shield with scratch-like marks and weathering effects
Accessories:
- – One (1) broken Crossbones helmet
- – Debris diorama base with Captain America nameplate and movie logo
Hot Toys – MMS357 – Avengers: Age of Ultron – 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch (New Avengers Version) Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
The 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch (New Avengers version) Collectible Figure features:
- – Authentic and detailed likeness of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in Avengers: Age of Ultron
- – Head sculpt with movie-accurate facial expression, new makeup application, and long curly light-brown real fabric hair implantation
- – Body with over 28 points of articulations
- – Approximately 28 cm tall
- – Six (6) pieces of interchangeable hands including:
- – One (1) pair of relaxed hands
- – One (1) pair of hands with red translucent fingertips for power-using effects accessories
- – One (1) gesturing left hand with red translucent fingertips
- – One (1) gesturing right hand with red translucent fingertips
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
- Costume :
- – One (1) red colored leather-like long jacket
- – One (1) pair of black leather-like pants
- – One (1) pair of black boots with red colored highlights
- Accessories:
- – One (1) pair of long gloves
- – Two (2) power-using effects accessories
- – Avengers: Age of Ultron themed figure stand with Scarlet Witch nameplate and the movie logo
Check out the photo galleries below, then order now at Sideshow Collectibles’ site–the only place you can get these two figures!
Issue 163: I Have Protection
This episode of Marvelicious Toys is jam-packed with collecting and convention goodness!
First, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they look at the recent conventions — Wizard World St. Louis, Wizard World Madison, Emerald City Comic-Con, and even a look ahead to San Diego Comic-Con International!
Then the hosts go to Civil War over all the new toys and products being released. From a bevy of food tie-ins to Hasbro’s Titan Hero figures to Jada Toys Die-Cast Cap and Iron Man, it’s all covered in this show.
Plus Hot Toys has two new figures up for pre-order: Ant-Man and Black Panther! Those are covered, along with the upcoming exclusive Deadpool Blu-ray sets, Diamond Select Toys’ new Retro Deadpool and Disney Exclusive Spider-Man Select, and more.
To top it all off, this show reviews not one but two high-end Hulk vs Hulkbuster Age of Ultron sets — the Cosbaby three-pack from Hot Toys, and the Egg Attack exclusive set.
All this and a in-depth discussion on protecting your POPS, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys podcast!
And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/fvghmm/MT163.mp3
Marvel Madness — And the Winner Is……
What a March Marvel Madness it has been! We started with 32 heroes plucked from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including films, TV shows, and Netflix. 29 single-elimination matches took place with you deciding the results in each case! Sure, you could have voted Howard the Duck beats Hulk, but the voters seemed to keep to the reality defined by the Marvel media.
There were close matches, like when Luke Cage beat Winter Soldier by 1 vote. And there were landslides, like when Hulk smashed Deathlok. But throughout there were fun match-ups that pitted friend vs friend. The full bracket with results is above.
And the end result came down to the two strongest heroes — Hulk vs Thor for the championship! And the contest wasn’t even close. With 68% of the vote, the winner is……..
Hulk smashed his way through Deathlok, Black Panther, Iron Man, Punisher, and Thor to become the 2016 Marvel March Madness Champion! This green golliath truly was unstoppable in this mash-up of heroes! (Perhaps this is why Banner was sent away on a Quinjet in Age of Ultron as Civil War would simply be decided by Hulk).
Thanks from all of us at Now Playing Podcast and Marvelicious Toys to everyone who voted in any and all of these matches. It was fun for us to see how the results went, and maybe next year we can do it again with new heroes like Dr. Strange, or perhaps with the villains — Iron Monger vs Abomination is a match I’d pay to see!
Finally, a special shout-out to Stephen Finley who wrote out narratives for each of the matches — and more often than not the vote followed his story! He posted several of them in our forums, and they’re a very fun read!
Finally, don’t forget to check NowPlayingPodcast.com in just a few weeks for our review of Captain America: Civil War, and join us biweekly at MarveliciousToys.com for the latest Marvel toy collecting news and reviews!
Thanks again for taking part, and EXCELSIOR!
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Finals – Hulk vs Thor
It’s a fight staged again and again. It was in the first Avengers movie, and in countless comics. Now the two strongest Avengers are the finalists in March Marvel Madness. It’s Hulk vs Thor for the championship!
Both proved worthy competitors as they defeated every fight they had. You can see the full result bracket of March Marvel Madness below:
Who will win it all? You decide so vote now!
[poll id=”35″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Ant-Man from Captain America: Civil War #TeamCap
With the Marvel Cinematic Universe being divided over the rising concern of collateral damage caused by the Avengers in Captain America: Civil War, fans will finally witness the epic showdown between Captain America and Iron Man when the two heroes hold different views on the system of accountability to oversee the Avengers.
Today Hot Toys put up for pre-order the new 1/6th scale collectible figure of newest supporter of Team Captain America, the size-shifting hero, Ant-Man!
The movie-accurate Ant-Man collectible figure is specially crafted based on the film featuring a newly developed head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Ant-Man in the movie, an interchangeable helmeted head with LED light-up function, meticulously tailored new Ant-Man suit, an Ant-Man miniature figure, and a Captain America: Civil War themed figure stand.
Hot Toys – MMS362 – Captain America: Civil War 1/6th scale Ant-Man Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
The 1/6th scale Ant-Man Collectible Figure features:
- – Newly developed head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Ant-Man in the movie
- – New Interchangeable Ant-Man helmet with LED light-up function (battery operated)
- – Approximately 30 cm tall
- – Six (6) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
- – One (1) pair of relaxed hands
- – One (1) pair of fists
- – One (1) pair of gesturing hands
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume:
- – One (1) new specially tailored black, red, and grey Ant-Man suit with embossed patterns and silver trims
- – One (1) pair of silver colored gauntlet
- – One (1) pair of black boots
Accessories:
- – One (1) miniature Ant-Man (Approximately 2.8cm tall)
- – Captain America: Civil War themed Team Captain America figure stand with character’s nameplate and the movie logo
Release date: Q3 – Q4, 2016
Don’t pass up on the opportunity to add the latest Ant-Man collectible figure in your collection.
Marvel Madness Final 4 – Captain America vs Thor
Thor, God of Thunder, has hammered through victory after victory, earning his spot in the Marvel Madness Final Four! He splintered Groot in the first round. His hammer bested Gamora’s blade in the Sweet Sixteen. He even proved more worthy than Vision, defeating the android in the Elite Eight. Can Thor fly fast enough to take it all?
He’s facing daring competition in this round–Captain America! Daredevil proved no match against the Star Spangled Avenger, and Jessica Jones fared little better. Even when up against Spider-Man in the Elite Eight, The First Avenger won.
Who makes it into the finals, and who goes home battered and bruised? You decide so vote now!
[poll id=”34″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Spider-Man vs Captain America
Spider-Man was tougher than Power Man and became one of the Marvel Madness Elite 8. Meanwhile, Cage’s wife fared even worse when up against Captain America.
Now it’s Winghead vs. Web-head to advance to the Final Four. We know Spidey is #TeamIronMan and, well, Cap is #TeamCap. But who wins when they go head to head?
Vote now to choose!
[poll id=”32″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Punisher vs Black Widow
The Punisher easily outgunned Hawkeye to advance to the Elite 8. And Black Widow defeated every other S.H.I.E.L.D. agent to enter this round. But now can Natasha’s fighting skills and widow’s sting compete against The Punisher’s military training and endless supply of guns? Vote now to choose!
[poll id=”31″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Vision vs Thor
Hulk was the first hero in March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8, having little more trouble beating Black Panther than he did Deathlok. Meanwhile, in a battle of the armored Avengers, Iron Man came out on top.
Now Hulk and Iron Man face off in the first match of the Elite 8. Who makes it to the Final 4? Vote now to choose!
[poll id=”30″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Hulk vs Iron Man!
Hulk was the first hero in March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8, having little more trouble beating Black Panther than he did Deathlok. Meanwhile, in a battle of the armored Avengers, Iron Man came out on top.
Now Hulk and Iron Man face off in the first match of the Elite 8. Who makes it to the Final 4? Vote now to choose!
[poll id=”28″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Win THE FORCE AWAKENS on Digital from Star Wars Action News and Vudu!
The Star Wars Action News Podcast and Vudu have teamed up to give away 5 Digital copies of The Force Awakens!
These copies will be given out one per day, starting 3/31 and ending 4/4.
It just takes two quick steps to Enter:
- Follow Star Wars Action News on PodBean. (If you don’t have a PodBean account you will need to sign up for a free one)
- E-mail show@swactionnews.com your PodBean user name.
Already follow us on PodBean? You only have to do step 2!
From the pool of entries, one winner will be chosen each day. The sooner you enter, the more chances you have to win! Entrants on 3/31 have 5 chances, one per day. Those who enter 4/1 have 4 chances, etc.
Winners will be sent their codes through a reply to their e-mail.
Enter today and good luck!
Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit! — Video Podcast
Last weekend at Chicago’s C2E2 convention was a rare gathering of Arnie, Marjorie, Justin, and other Marvelicious Team Members. Together they shopped, they chatted, and they partied with some listeners. Of course, they also recorded a new episode of Marvelicious Toys!Gathered in person, our hosts looked at the Square Enix Variant Play Arts Kai figures. Standing about 10-inches tall, they reviewed Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Black Widow, Iron Man, and Venom! But there’s a twist…! After recording the hosts found out half the figures were Chinese bootlegs! So after the con the team reconvened to compare these fakers with the real deal, and tell YOU how to spot the difference! It’s all in this mega-episode of Marvelicious Toys!This episode of Marvelicious Toys is a full video episode–but those will be the exception going forward. To bring back the full video shows we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/fvghmm/MT162.mp3v
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Falcon from Civil War!
In the epic blockbuster, Captain America: Civil War, the Marvel Cinematic Universe will be divided when fans’ favorite heroes are taking two different sides when the government is becoming concern with collateral damage caused by the Avengers and planning to install a system of accountability to oversee and direct the Avengers.
Today Hot Toys put up for pre-order the next 1/6th scale collectible figure of a Team Captain America member – Falcon!
The movie-accurate collectible figure is specially crafted based on the image of Anthony Mackie as Falcon in the movie. It features a newly painted head sculpt, a highly detailed and specially tailored costume, flight backpack, newly designed wings with enhanced articulations, a Redwing drone, and a dynamic figure stand ideal for flight poses.
Support Team Captain America by adding the new Falcon collectible figure to your collection today.
Please kindly find the attached photos and spec below for your reference.
Hot Toys – MMS361 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scaleFalcon Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~
The 1/6th scale Falcon Collectible Figure specially features:
- – Newly painted head sculpt with authentic and detailed likeness of Anthony Mackie as Falcon in Captain America: Civil War
- – Movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture
- – Body with over 30 points of articulations
- – Approximately 30 cm tall
- – Eight (8) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
- – One (1) pair of fists
- – One (1) pair of relaxed hands
- – One (1) pair of hands for holding weapons
- – One (1) pair of hands for holding wings
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume:
- – One (1) specially tailored dark grey and red colored Falcon flight suit
- – One (1) grey colored t-shirt
- – One (1) pair of dark grey and red colored gauntlets
- – One (1) pair of black and dark grey colored boots with mechanical details
Weapons:
- – One (1) submachine gun
- – One (1) submachine gun on left forearm
Accessories:
- – One (1) flight backpack
- – One (1) pair of interchangeable newly designed attachable fully spread wings with enhanced articulations
- – One (1) articulated Redwing drone attachable to flight backpack
- – One (1) pair of goggles
- – Diamond-shaped dynamic figure stand with Falcon nameplate and the movie logo
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 8 – Jessica Jones vs Captain America
Jessica Jones scored a narrow victory over Quicksilver, advancing to March Marvel Madness’ Sweet 16. Meanwhile Captain America obliterated his competitor Daredevil. Can Jessica Jones succeed where her Netflix brother failed? You pick in the final match of the Sweet 16 fights! Then come back tomorrow for the Elite 8!
[poll id=”27″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 7 – Agent Coulson vs Black Widow
There seems to be a lot of in-fighting at SHIELD these days. Is Hydra involved? Either way, Agent Coulson easily defeated Agent 13, and Black Widow used extreme prejudice to take out SHIELD founder Peggy Carter.
Now Coulson and Black Widow go head to head. Only one Agent of SHIELD is going to advance to March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8. Who will it be? You decide!
[poll id=”25″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 6 – Vision vs Rocket Raccoon
It turns out 12% of a plan wasn’t enough for Star-Lord to face Rocket, so the short, furry Guardian entered our Sweet 16. Vision had a much easier time overcoming his opponent Howard the Duck.
Now Vision and Rocket must do battle in what must be the strangest March Marvel Madness match yet! Will Rocket’s weaponry overcome Vision’s density? Vote now!
[poll id=”24″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 5 – Iron Man vs War Machine
Both of the Armored Avengers won their Round 1 matches. Iron Man scored an easy victory over Nick Fury, and War Machine clipped Falcon’s wings. But now it’s time for these two friends to face off in March Marvel Madness!
War Machine has a big gun, but is he the big gun? Vote Now!
[poll id=”23″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 4 – Luke Cage vs Spider-Man
In his first match Spider-Man had a fight on his hands, narrowly defeating Scarlet Witch to join the March Marvel Madness Sweet 16. But the vote was even closer when Luke Cage defeated The Winter Soldier by only one vote!
Now Spider-Man and Luke Cage duke it out for a spot in the Elite 8. In the comics these two hung out quite a bit, but how do their powers compare in combat? YOU DECIDE! Vote now in the poll below
[poll id=”22″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 3 – Punisher vs Hawkeye
In Round 1 Hawkeye barely overcame Elektra, winning by just one vote! The Punisher, however, obliterated Maria Hill with 83%. Now these two must face off.
How does Hawkeye’s aim and trick arrows compare to The Punisher’s arsenal and war experience? Tell us in the poll below!
[poll id=”21″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 2 – Gamora vs Thor
Two Guardians of the Galaxy were eliminated in Round 1 of March Marvel Madness. Drax the Destroyer put up a fight and got 44% of the vote, but it wasn’t enough to beat Gamora. Meanwhile, Groot splinted under the might of Thor’s hammer.
Now these two alien beings face off. Can Gamora’s training under Thanos help her best the son of Odin? You decide!
[poll id=”20″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 1 – Black Panther vs Hulk
Hulk easily smashed Deathlok, getting 94% of the votes, to progress to our Sweet 16. Meanwhile, Black Panther narrowly defeated Ant-Man. Now the two face off. Will Hulk SMASH puny Panther, or will T’Challa’s superhuman strength and agility give him the edge? Vote now to decide!
[poll id=”19″]
See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
The March Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Are Chosen!
The Sweet 16 Heroes of March Marvel Madness have been selected!
The competition started March 15. Each day two pairs of heroes were plucked from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and competed head to head. Marvel fans across the globe voted at VenganzaMedia.com and from the 32 contestants, 16 winners were chosen.
Click to see the full March Marvel Madness Bracket
Now those winners go head to head, the victors advancing to the Elite 8, and you decide the results!
Each day at 1pm EDT from March 23rd through March 26th two more face-offs will be posted. The matches will be:
March 23: Black Panther vs Hulk
March 23: Gamora vs Thor
March 24: Hawkeye vs Punisher
March 24: Spider-Man vs Luke Cage
March 25: War Machine vs Iron Man
March 25: Vision vs Rocket Raccoon
March 26: Agent Phil Coulson vs Black Widow
March 26: Captain America vs Jessica Jones
Come back to VenganzaMedia.com each day to vote for the winner! The victors advance to our March Marvel Madness Elite 8. Then, starting March 27, one match will be posted per day until only one Marvel champion remains!
Marvel collectors: get your dose of Marvel toy and statue collecting news on the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
Marvel movie fans: hear reviews of every Marvel movie, from Howard the Duck through Ant-Man on the Now Playing podcast!
Marvel Madness Match 16 – Captain America vs Daredevil
It’s the final fight in March Marvel Madness’ first round, and two heavy hitters collide! Can Captain America’s shield and strength overcome Daredevil’s heightened senses and reflexes? It’s a Spring ’16 battle of big screen vs small, and you decide the winner!
Then come back tomorrow as we start our Sweet 16 matches!
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 15 – Agent 13 vs Agent Coulson
Despite both being Agents under the command of Nick Fury, we’ve never seen Agent Sharon Carter and Agent Phil Coulson together. But one has gone on to be the Director of newly reformed S.H.I.E.L.D. and the other is joining #TeamCap for a Civil War. But if they went head to head, would experience overcome agility? You decide!
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Marvel Madness Match 14 – Rocket Raccoon vs Star-Lord!
Two galactic Guardians go head to head in a winner takes-all deathmatch! YOU decide if Star-Lord’s 12% of a plan can overcome Rocket’s weaponry!
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
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Marvel Madness Match 13 – Nick Fury vs Iron Man!
Nick Fury has years of training and combat experience. Iron Man has attitude and a really cool suit. Can the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. overcome the Iron Avenger? You decide!
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 12 – Jessica Jones vs Quicksilver!
Jessica Jones and Quicksilver both started as normal people, but experiments turned them into superheroes. But can Jones’ strength overcome Quicksilver’s speed? You decide!
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Marvel Madness Match 11 – Agent Carter vs Black Widow
Both women are highly trained operatives, skilled in combat and undercover infiltration. But when these two secret agents battle it out, who comes out on top — Agent Peggy Carter or the Black Widow?
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 10 – Howard the Duck vs Vision!
This may seem like an unfair fight — after all, what chance does an Infinity Gem powered android stand against an anthropomorphic water fowl? But both had encounters with infinity stones, and Howard is a master of Quack-Fu. And you get to decide which of them progresses to the Marvel Madness Sweet Sixteen!
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 9 – Falcon vs War Machine!
Never in Marvel Madness history have we had such equal opponents. These super sidekicks both have military histories, and their powered suits got them roles in the Avengers! But Falcon is #TeamCap and War Machine is #TeamStark so one has to fall. Can the “big gun’s” fight overcome Falcon’s flight?
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 8 – Scarlet Witch vs Spider-Man!
Can webs and wits win over a witch with hex powers? Vote now to see which Avenger comes out on top!
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet
Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Marvel Madness Match 7 – Elektra vs Hawkeye!
Hawkeye lost his parents, joined a carnival, and became a master archer. Elektra lost her parents and became a ninja assassin. But when they go head to head, who will be victorious?
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See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet<