The Return of the King (1980) – for Annual Subscribers
Despite the title, Rankin/Bass’ adaptation of The Return of the King is not the conclusion to 1978’s animated Lord of the Rings film. Attempting to be a direct sequel to 1977’s animated The Hobbit, this ABC network television special brings back the character designs and voice cast from that first show. Can the story of The Return of the King be told without the previous two volumes, or does this work as an unofficial conclusion to Ralph Bakshi’s Lord of the Rings? If you make a Platinum donation to Now Playing podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Return of the King (1980)
Despite the title, Rankin/Bass’ adaptation of The Return of the King is not the conclusion to 1978’s animated Lord of the Rings film. Attempting to be a direct sequel to 1977’s animated The Hobbit, this ABC network television special brings back the character designs and voice cast from that first show. Can the story of The Return of the King be told without the previous two volumes, or does this work as an unofficial conclusion to Ralph Bakshi’s Lord of the Rings? If you make a Platinum donation to Now Playing podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Lord of the Rings (1978) – for Annual Subscribers
Peter Jackson’s adaptation of Lord of the Rings runs over 9 hours, or 12 hours for the extended cuts. By contrast, in 1978 Ralph Bakshi’s animated adaptation claimed to tell the saga in just over two hours. In truth, this theatrical cartoon adapts half of J.R.R. Tolkien’s best-selling saga, and left audiences anticipating a conclusion that would never come. Can almost two novels be told in two hours? If you make a Platinum donation to Now Playing podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Lord of the Rings (1978) – Donation Bonus
Peter Jackson’s adaptation of Lord of the Rings runs over 9 hours, or 12 hours for the extended cuts. By contrast, in 1978 Ralph Bakshi’s animated adaptation claimed to tell the saga in just over two hours. In truth, this theatrical cartoon adapts half of J.R.R. Tolkien’s best-selling saga, and left audiences anticipating a conclusion that would never come. Can almost two novels be told in two hours? If you make a Platinum donation to Now Playing podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Hobbit (1977) – for Annual Subscribers
It took forty years for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth saga to reach screens. Despite the mass popularity of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings books, only a short feature had been realized. Finally, in 1977, the animation studio Rankin/Bass brought the story of Bilbo Baggins to TV audiences everywhere with their animated adaptation of The Hobbit. Now Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob watch and review this NBC prime-time special as the first volume in a trilogy of animated Middle Earth films. Make a Platinum level donation to Now Playing and you can hear it now!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Hobbit (1977) – Donation Bonus
It took forty years for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth saga to reach screens. Despite the mass popularity of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings books, only a short feature had been realized. Finally, in 1977, the animation studio Rankin/Bass brought the story of Bilbo Baggins to TV audiences everywhere with their animated adaptation of The Hobbit. Now Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob watch and review this NBC prime-time special as the first volume in a trilogy of animated Middle Earth films. Make a Platinum level donation to Now Playing and you can hear it now!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Troll 2 – for Annual Subscribers
It’s considered the worst film of all time: Troll 2. In no way connected to 1986’s original Troll, and not having any trolls in the film, could it actually live up to that title? Join Marjorie, Stuart, and Arnie now for the second, and final, chapter in the Troll Retrospective Series to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Troll 2 – Donation Bonus
It’s considered the worst film of all time: Troll 2. In no way connected to 1986’s original Troll, and not having any trolls in the film, could it actually live up to that title? Join Marjorie, Stuart, and Arnie now for the second, and final, chapter in the Troll Retrospective Series to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Troll – for Annual Subscribers
For the Fall 2014 Donation Series the Now Playing crew are watching films about Elves, Hobbits, Leprechauns, and Dwarfs, but one mythological little person was missing: a troll. While they’ve had to deal with several on the internet, Marjorie, Arnie, and Stuart have yet to encounter one on screen. Now they rectify that with a review of the 1986 horror-comedy Troll. Will this Gremlins rip-off work its magic on the hosts, or should it be left under a bridge? Listen to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Troll – Donation Bonus
For the Fall 2014 Donation Series the Now Playing crew are watching films about Elves, Hobbits, Leprechauns, and Dwarfs, but one mythological little person was missing: a troll. While they’ve had to deal with several on the internet, Marjorie, Arnie, and Stuart have yet to encounter one on screen. Now they rectify that with a review of the 1986 horror-comedy Troll. Will this Gremlins rip-off work its magic on the hosts, or should it be left under a bridge? Listen to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Make the ‘Corn Connection’ with ‘Now Playing Podcast’
Let’s be honest. None of us really expect to see row after row of green arrows once the Now Playing Podcast hosts emerge from their nine-part Children of the Corn Retrospective Series.
If it weren’t for their commitment to reviewing every movie spawned by the works of Stephen King, we wouldn’t, for example, be circling Sept. 23 on the calendar for the release of Children of the Corn 666: Isaac’s Revenge.
But Arnie, Stuart and Jakob are taking the plunge, and so we will join them on this epic binge of bad sequels. Only this time, we’re going to have some fun with it.
With our hosts seated in front of their microphones, those of us behind the scenes will be playing Six Degrees of Now Playing.
It’s The Corn Connection.
Every week we’ll run down the list of players from each of the nine Corn films, and direct an arrow toward their place in the Now Playing Podcast archives.
When you IMDB the casts of Hollywood horror franchises, you’ll often see familiar faces. Some are names that will soon become household (see Hellraiser: Hellworld), and some once were (Isaac’s Revenge).
So come back to the Venganza Media Gazette each week and take a trip around the Now Playing Podcast archives. And if you spot an actor or actress that’s made an appearance in another film reviewed by Now Playing, leave a comment and help a fellow listener discover what they might be missing.
We’ll start Tuesday following the release of 1984’s Children of the Corn over at the Now Playing Podcast website.
How many connections can you make?
‘Turtles’ Power Now Playing on iTunes, ‘Children’ lurking
Now Playing Podcast is leaving the sewers and venturing into the cornfields.
Venganza Media’s flagship podcast capped its Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Retrospective Series this week with its review of the Michael Bay-produced franchise reboot. The film marked the Turtles’ return to the big screen after a 7-year layoff and captured the box office crown on opening weekend.
Now Playing Podcast marked its own triumph on Thursday, when its Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2014) episode debuted at No. 5 on iTunes’ TV & Film audio podcast rankings.
The achievement extends Now Playing’s summer winning streak, highlighted by the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II episode, which peaked at No. 2 on iTunes in late July.
Throughout the TMNT series, hosts Arnie Carvalho, Stuart Atkinson and Jakob Brewster have guided listeners through the highs and lows of Ninja Turtles lore, and ventured outside of the feature films to discuss long-forgotten turns in the franchise’s history, including the infamous Coming Out Of Their Shells concert tour.
“Turtle Power is a real thing, it cannot be underestimated,” Atkinson joked. “I give all the credit to those green guys. They’ve been through hell at the movies and they deserve a little Top 10 love.”
With the
Turtles franchise now in their rear view, the hosts are set to begin the next chapter in Now Playing’s massive Stephen King retrospective. The series, which began last fall, picks up again Aug. 19 with Children of the Corn, a nine-episode arc that will complete Now Playing’s coverage of King’s Night Shift collection.
The first Corn adaptation hit theaters in 1984 and was followed by seven poorly-received sequels, as well as a television remake. Fans of Now Playing’s earliest horror retrospective series’ can look forward to the hosts continuing their discussion of Hollywood’s sequel addiction as they try their best to remain composed in the face of mediocre filmmaking.
“Reviewing Night Shift has been a long haul, and I say that as the King fan!” Carvalho said. “I haven’t watched most of these Corn films, but they made nine of them — there has to be something there, right?”
“Nine films? Most direct-to-video?” Brewster added. “I just hope I can come up with enough corn puns to bring a kernel of humor to our listeners’ ears. Sigh.”
The Children of the Corn series will carry Now Playing Podcast into early October, before the hosts embark on a journey through the films of director Christopher Nolan, leading up to the release of November’s Interstellar.
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Emma Frost Premium Format Figure
The White Queen Emma Frost has already been recreated as a Sideshow Premium Format Figure, in a statue based on the art of J. Scott Campbell. That statue, released back in 2009, is still a great piece but as Sideshow’s roster of quarter-scale X-Men has grown, that older statue did not fit with the more realistic aesthetics of the modern Premium Format line. Numerous fans have requested Sideshow revisit Emma Frost in a style that would go alongside the figures of the past few years like Cyclops, Storm, and Jean Gray.
Now Sideshow has put up for pre-order the brand new version of Emma Frost. Standing 20-inches tall, designed by Kris Anka, this new Emma looks as she did as the 1980 Queen of the Hellfire Club. The statue’s base is themed after that hedonistic, underground society.
And if you hurry and get Sideshow’s Exclusive Edition you get a swap-out head showing the White Queen with her short hair. These alternate heads on Rogue and Storm have driven the prices of exclusive editions sky-high on eBay, but now you can get one for the regular price!
I saw this statue in person at San Diego Comic-Con. While it may be on the risque side for some collectors, the piece is beautifully sculpted. The long cape in back is fur trimmed and able to be draped in a number of ways. This statue is great for Frost fans be it in her comics, in X-Men: First Class or even X-Men Origins: Wolverine or that old Generation X TV movie!
She is scheduled to ship in April, 2015 and Flex-Pay is available, so get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Freddy Fans Delighted at Flashback Weekend
Freddy Kruger (Englund) on stage with three costumed back-ups at the Flashback Weekend Horror Convention
Rosemont IL – Despite being known for his Nightmares, actor Robert Englund made fans’ dreams come true last weekend at the Flashback Weekend Chicago Horror Convention.
Three Freddy fans patiently wait to meet their idol
Making a rare midwestern appearance, star of the Nightmare on Elm Street movie series Robert Englund was Flashback Weekend’s headline guest. Englund spent all day Saturday and Sunday meeting fans, signing their memorabilia, and sharing stories of his life from the making of A Nightmare on Elm Street to The Mangler and more. Fans lined up for hours to meet this horror icon.
Though the staff at Flashback Weekend had a convenient ticketing system to minimize wait times, Englund’s autograph line still wound out of his private room. Even those with $110 “priority line placement” tickets stood in line for nearly three hours. Once the fans reached the front of the line, though, the experience was rewarding. Englund is known to have a slow autograph line as he spends a few minutes talking with each fan. I watched as he fawned over one fan’s Japanese theater program promoting the release of 1989’s A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child. “You have some cool shit,” he said to another fan who brought a DVD collection covered in autographs from other stars.
The long line may have had its advantages. One congoer recounted his experience in Englund’s autograph line seven years ago at Flashback Weekend: he met his wife in that line. Now he, his wife of five years, and their daughter returned to again visit their horror hero.
The cost of Englund’s autograph was $50.00 per item–a very reasonable price for con-goers. (For comparison, at the upcoming Wizard World Chicago convention The Incredible Hulk’s Lou Ferrigno is charging $40.00, Marvel Comics’ Stan Lee $80.00, and, at New York Comic-Con in 2013, Sylvester Stallone charged $395.00). While some celebrities rarely look up from their tables, their hands furiously signing item after item, Englund ensured each fan felt they had their moment with him and a story to tell as they left.
Arnie seized the opportunity to get a once-in-a-lifetime photo with Englund in the Freddy makeup.
While the chance for Robert Englund’s autograph was welcomed by the fans, the far more publicized event was Friday’s exclusive photo opportunity with the star–in full Freddy make-up. While celebrity appearances and photo opportunities are regular occurrences at conventions, rarely do the stars dress up for the occasion. On Friday, however, Englund underwent a two-and-a-half hour make-up application transforming him into the onscreen persona of Freddy. The latex prothetics that turned Englund into his on-screen persona were created and applied by 30-year Hollywood makeup effects artist Robert Kurtzman, who worked with Englund on the fifth Nightmare film.
The cost was very high– the photo opportunity, consisting of a professionally lit shot done by Celeb Photo Ops, a single 8″ x 10″ photo printout, and weekend admission to the convention (for one person) cost $365.00. Up to two people could be in the photo, but the guest would have to pay admission separately. The night of the event the photo itself could be purchased separately for $295.00. Additional prints and digital download options added to the cost of the photo. By comparison, at Wizard World Chicago photos with a single celebrity, also done by Celeb Photo Ops, range from $40 to $125, with the average being $55. A photo with all seven stars of Star Trek: The Next Generation is in the same price range, at $299.00 (not including convention admission).
The cost was not due to organizer or celebrity greed. Flashback Weekend started in 2002, run by Mike and Mia Kerz. The event is held annually in the Chicago area., and all proceeds from Flashback Weekend, including the Freddy photo op, go to the preservation and operation of the Midway Drive-In located in Dixon, IL. The Flashback Weekend web site states the philanthropic efforts are to “[provide] a theatrical outlet at the Midway Drive-In for new independent horror films [and maintain] a venue at the Midway for the screening of 35mm horror films.” Englund cited this cause as a motivator behind his decision to appear in full make-up.
Despite the high cost, hundreds of fans lined up for this once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity. Fans came from across the country, some traveling from Tuscon, Pittsburgh, and Texas, for this chance. Englund was in full-on Freddy mode, speaking in the gravely voice and sometimes letting out his trademark scream–acts which must be second nature for the actor who’s portrayed the dream killer for thirty years. Fans hoping for a moment with their idol, however, needed to go to the autograph area as the photo op was a workman-like assembly line. Englund seemed to have four key poses: for photos with one person he would put his blade to their throat. For photos with two people he would attack one–usually the female. For families that snuck a third person, a child, into the photo Englund would grab the young one’s hair, and for those who were wearing their own Freddy glove Englund had a crossed-blades pose.
Englund demonstrated on-stage the problems with wearing his trademark fedora in photos.
The entire photo experience gave fans about thirty seconds with the star before the man behind the camera shouted “next” and fans were escorted out. Englund seemed to barely have time to acknowledge any fans individually, it was enter frame, pose, picture, done.
However the result is a well-lit, framed, and shot photo. Yes, the cost is high, but, as shown to the right, the result is a photo that cannot be gotten anywhere else.
In the weeks leading up to the convention several fans complained online about Englund wearing the makeup and glove, but eschewing Freddy’s trademark sweater and hat. On stage that evening, in a private event for those who purchased the photo opportunity, Englund explained the hat created numerous lighting problems that plagued the filming of all the Nightmare films. For the sake of a good photograph the hat had to be skipped. As for the sweater? Englund explained that fans could find convincing Freddy characters in front of Mann’s Chinese Theater and other locales, and that by wearing the official T-Shirt of Flashback Weekend fans could prove their photo was with the star himself.
Also in that evening panel Englund stated that this was perhaps not, as claimed on the Flashback Weekend web site, the final time the actor would don the make-up; the 68-year-old actor may not yet be ready to hang up his hat and glove. Whether for other fan events or professional Hollywood productions fans may not have seen the last of Englund as Freddy after all.
And Englund wasn’t the only Nightmare on Elm Street star on hand for Flashback Weekend. Also at the event were Amanda Wyss (A Nightmare on Elm Street, Better Off Dead), Robert Rusler (A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge, Weird Science, Sometimes They Come Back), Jennifer Rubin (A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, Bad Dreams, Screamers), Monica Keena (Freddy vs. Jason, Dawson’s Creek), Katharine Isabelle (Freddy vs. Jason, Ginger Snaps) and Ronee Blakley (A Nightmare on Elm Street and Nashville, for which she was nominated for an Academy Award). Unlike Englund, lines to meet these actors were often short, and autograph prices ranged from $20.00 to $40.00. Some would pose with fans for photos if you purchased an autograph; others had a separate photo charge.
A Nightmare reunion at Flashback Weekend 2014! From left to right: Rusler, Rubin, Blakley, Wyass, and Keena
But like Englund each of the stars were approachable and friendly, engaging with their fans in the short time allotted.
In total, over two dozen celebrities attended the convention, including actress/musician Traci Lords, Gremlins star Zach Galligan, and character actor William Forsythe. These actors filled the end of the convention’s exhibit floor, and while, at peak times, lines became difficult to navigate, the average wait was short.
Aside from Englund, the two most popular celebrities at Flashback Weekends seemed to be Lance Henriksen and Angus Scrimm.
Henriksen is a science fiction fan favorite with appearances in three of the Alien films, as well as Terminator and the TV series Millennium. In total the actor has over 200 on-screen credits in a career that spans more than 50 years. Yet Henriksen engaged fans eagerly, sharing stories of knife-practice on the set of Aliens or “alimony movies” he had to make like The Mangler 2. He had a dry wit which left interviewer “Svengoolie” Rich Coz nonplussed during the Friday night panel.
Scrimm, an actor best known for the Phantasm horror series, had a autograph line second in length only to Englund’s. The actor, who is celebrating his 88th birthday next week, had a health issue that caused him to cancel an Indianpolis convention appearance in 2013. Fans, not wanting to miss this opportunity, stood in a line that at times stretched the length of the convention hall.
Scrimm headlined a 35th Anniversary Reunion of Phantasm stars at Flashback Weekend, which also included Reggie Bannister, Don Coscarelli, Michael Baldwin, Bill Thornbury, and Kathy Lester.
Outside of celebrity appearances, Flashback Weekend had a bevy of costumers and revelers. In addition to Svengoolie, local personalities Kitty Zombie, WGN Radio’s Nick Digilio, and Daily herald film critic Dann Gire helped host the event. While the convention’s exhibit floor was one of the smaller ones for Chicago conventions, fans still could buy toys, T-Shirts, DVDs, and more. For those whose tastes run outside the norm there were also taxidermied animal heads, lifelike silicon werebabies, and replica Freddy gloves.
Details for next years event are expected in the coming months at the official Flashback Weekend website.
See photos from the event in the galleries below.
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- View of the Exhibit Floor at Flashback Weekend 2014
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- More vendors on the Exhibit Floor of Flashback Weekend 2014
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- You could buy this Werebaby at Flashback Weekend 2014
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- You can buy these old trading cards at Flashback Weekend but, as the company name states, Don’t Eat The Gum!
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- You could buy a Nightcrawler bust or, a couple aisles over, buy petrified nightcrawlers.
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- What did the fox say? Nothing after they cut off his head and taxidermied it for sale at Flashback Weekends.
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- It’s a small brain after all with Zombie Mickey Mouse!
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- A fan tries on a prop replica Freddy glove on the Flashback Weekend exhibit floor.
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- The slide before the start of the photo-op only Friday night panel
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- The translator for the hearing impaired seems to have had some bad dreams
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- Svengooli hosted the interviews Friday night
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- Svengooli interviews Robert Englund at Flashback Weekend
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- Svengooli interviews Lance Henrickson
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- Lance Henriksen has some fun with Svengooli on stage
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- Freddy vs Jason’s Monica Keena laughs with Amanda Wyss at Flashback Weekend
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- Nightmare on Elm Street 2 actor Robert Rusler on stage with Dream Warrior Jennifer Rubin
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- A Nightmare on Elm Street stars Amanda Wyss and Monica Keena get serious.
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- A Nightmare on Elm Street star Amanda Wyss at Flashback Weekend
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- A Nightmare on Elm Street 3 Dream Warrior Jennifer Rubin at Flashback Wekeend
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- Freddy got his Revenge on actor Robert Rusler in A Nightmare on Elm Street 2
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- Robert Rusler asks probing questions of Jennifer Rubin at Flashback Weekend
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- Freddy vs Jason’s Monica Keena at Flashback Weekend
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- Hollywood Monster Robert Englund signs a photo for a fan at Flashback Weekends in Chicago, IL
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- Nancy Booth and Robert Englund greet fans, and their dogs, at Flashback Weekend
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- Lance Henriksen signs a photo for a fan at Flashback Weekends in Chicago, IL
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- Behind Lance Henriksen’s table stood an Alien prop; one of the must-sees on the exhibit floor of Flashback Weekend 2014.
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- Costumed guests at Flashback Weekend, 2014
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- A Jason costumer claims his next victim at Flashback Weekends 2014
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- Freddy vs Jason on the exhibit floor of Flashback Weekend
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- A demonic zombie-girl really plays the part at Flashback Weekend in Chicago
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- Killer Klowns from Flashback Weekend
Pre-Order Alert: Die Cast Iron Man Mark III Exclusive and Mark III Construction Version
Hot Toys collectors, your day just got a little bit cooler! Sideshow Collectibles has put up for pre-order two new versions of the Iron Man Mark III armor as seen in the first Iron Man movie!
First we have the Iron Man Mark III Armor. This is the iconic red-and-gold suit Tony Stark dons about halfway through the first film. Hot Toys has released this figure before, but collectors complained that the figure was a bit shorter than the later Hot Toys figures, and the face sculpt wasn’t as perfected. Now Hot Toys brings their latest technology to the figure–it’s made of die cast metal! You can hear (or watch) our review of Hot Toys’ amazing Iron Patriot die cast figure in Marvelicious Toys Issue 119 (and that figure is still available to order from Sideshow as well). By going die cast Hot Toys has taken their already astounding figures to the next level, so for many who even already own the Hot Toys Iron Man Mark III this upgrade is worth a purchase.
More, through Sideshow Collectibles, Hot Toys is offering an exclusive version of this figure that comes with an accessory you can’t get anywhere else: a 1/6 scale version of Tony Stark’s first arc reactor in the case as Pepper Potts gave him as a gift in that Iron Man film! It’s a neat accessory that is sure to make this item highly sought after on the secondary market.
More, you get a ton of accessories (pictured right) including a changeable Tony Stark head, LED eyes and chest RT, removable chest and torso armor, interchangeable forearm rockets, interchangeable shoulder guns, interchangeable countermeasure dispensers, 3 pairs of hands, and a light-up figure stand.
And for those Hot Toys collectors who like to make dioramas or environments, there’s a more unique Iron Man Mark III up for order today–the Iron Man Mark III Construction Version. Priced at only $149.99 this is about half the price of a normal Hot Toys Iron Man, which is fitting as it’s half an Iron Man! This item recreates the Mark III armor as shown undergoing repairs in Tony Stark’s workshop. With the chest plates off, shown hanging from chains with wires extending beneath, it’s an interesting accessory that your Tony Stark figure can tinker with!
So hurry and order the Die Cast Iron Man Mark III or the Iron Man Mark III Construction Version now from Sideshow Collectibles!
Hasbro SDCC Exclusives Now Available Online!
Update 3: Overnight the Infinity Gauntlet 3.75-inch Marvel set sold out, over 12 hours after being offered.
Update 2: The Jabba the Hutt set is now sold out, 1 hour after being put up for sale
Update: The Marvel Legends Galactus Engine Set is now sold out, about 25 minutes after being put up for sale.
Hasbro’s 2014 San Diego Comic-Con International exclusive toys are up for order now at Habro’s online store HasbroToyShop.com As we reported on Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys’ social media sites, and will be detailed more in the forthcoming Comic-Con coverage videos and podcasts, Hasbro’s San Diego booth was the most chaotic it’s been in 9 years. Items like the Marvel Legends set and Jabba the Hutt sold out by 10:30 Saturday morning. Collectors and scalpers alike fought to get tickets and get in the line, and sometimes lining up as early as 5 a.m. was not enough to get the toys sought. Now they are on Hasbro Toy Shop.com but with the high demand for these limited-edition toys they will likely sell out in under an hour. So if you were looking for these toys, hurry to the site now and get yours! 
Venganza Media Announces ‘The 40-Year-Old-Critic’ Series
‘Now Playing Podcast’ host Arnie Carvalho pens a personal 40-film retrospective for his 40th birthday
SPRINGFIELD, Ill – As Now Playing Podcast continues its remarkable run on iTunes’ Top 10 TV & Film podcast rankings, creator and host Arnie Carvalho is marking his 40th birthday with a written retrospective of 40 films that influenced his life and career. The series, titled The 40-Year-Old Critic, will be published daily on Now Playing’s sister website, Venganza Media Gazette, beginning Monday, Aug. 4.
“Our podcast listeners frequently share that they enjoy when the Now Playing hosts provide personal anecdotes in addition to movie reviews, this series will deliver just that.” Carvalho said. “This series will help our listeners understand a bit more why I give the recommendations I do and I hope they’ll be interested and amused by these articles”
The 40-Year-Old Critic will launch with Carvalho’s take on 1974’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, with successive articles covering a single film from each year of his life. Stepping away from the microphone will also give Carvalho a chance to analyze films unlikely to appear on Now Playing Podcast, including the Robin Williams box-office bomb Popeye, cult classic Pump Up the Volume, and the Star Wars saga.
About Now Playing Podcast
From its humble beginnings in 2007 as a short-form, off-the-cuff movie review podcast, Now Playing Podcasthas grown into one of the most-celebrated independent shows on iTunes. Its success is largely attributed to the appeal of its hosts and Now Playing’s highly-acclaimed retrospective format, keeping listeners engaged for months and years as the hosts maneuver Hollywood’s hectic film schedule.
Venganza Media launched in 2005 and is the driving force behind the No. 1 podcast for Star Wars collectors, Star Wars Action News, Marvelicious Toys, and frequent iTunes Top 10 podcast Now Playing Podcast. The company, which currently produces six podcasts, is based in Springfield, Illinois.
For more information, contact Venganza Media.
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusive Star-Lord Figure
“My name is Peter Quill. There’s one other name you may know me by: Star-Lord.”
No doubt, Guardians of the Galaxy has gone from Marvel’s riskiest film to date to being a sure-fire hit–the only question now is how big of a hit? But with crowd-pleasing trailers featuring Groot, Rocket Raccoon, Gamora, Drax, and, yes, Star-Lord anticipation is high for this film.
And, of course, what would a new Marvel movie be without Hot Toys based on it? 
Now the third of the Guardians is up for order–and there’s an exclusive edition!
Both versions of Star-Lord come with 5 pairs of gloved palms, 2 guns, a sling pack, a cassette player, and a realistic plasma orb. But if you hurry and get the Exclusive Edition you also get handcuffs and the silver Orb we see Quill trying to steal in the trailer!
I’ve seen this figure in person at SDCC (photo above was taken by me). The coat has amazing detail and tailoring. The facial likeness is spot-on. The accessories are intricite. This is a great figure of what appears to be an amazing new character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
So what are you waiting for? Hurry and get your order in now, before you call Sideshow to order Star-Lord and they reply “Who??? He’s sold out.”
I AM GROOT! Pre-Order your Hot Toys Rocket Raccoon and/or Groot now!
I AM GROOT!
Hot Toys and Sideshow Collectibles has surprised us! Now there are a total of three Hot Toys 1/6 scale Movie Masterpiece Series figures up for pre-order today! Earlier we announced the Toy Fairs Exclusive Iron Man in Python Armor figure, and now available for pre-order are the Guardians of the Galaxy heroes Rocket Raccoon and Groot!
Rocket Raccoon is a smaller figure, and priced accordingly. Wearing his grey and orange space suit, he comes with 17 points of articulation, his big rifle from the film, 3 pairs of interchangeable hands, and a figure stand. At 1/6 scale he stands 16cm (just over 6-inches) tall.
Then there is Groot, the giant tree. As trees are not very nimble he has only 15 points of articulation…but he’s big, standing 39cm (well over 15-inches) tall! He also has 3 interchangeable pairs of hands.
But if you’re the type of collector (or just The Collector) who has to have both you can get even more! Sideshow’s exclusive figure 2-pack gives you both figures, plus you get 3 extra Groot accessories — 2 more pairs of hands, plus an alternate Groot face showing his angry expression.
These are up for order now, and as the Guardians gain heat they’re likely to be in high demand, so head to Sideshow and order your Rocket, Groot, or both now!
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Toy Fair Exclusive Iron Man Mark XX (Python Armor)
Hot Toys is bringing the (house) party to you!
In the past the Hot Toys exclusive figures have been some of the hardest for US collectors to obtain, and drawn some of the highest prices on the secondary market. In the past Sideshow Collectibles used to make these items San Diego Comic-Con exclusives, but has since moved to their usual online ordering system (albeit with a lower edition size). Last year’s exclusive Midas Armor Iron Man was especially problematic for collectors.
Fortunately Sideshow has not left us hanging as long this year, as up for pre-order now is the Toy Fair exclusive Iron Man Mark XX — the Python Armor!
This 1/6 scale figure stands 12-inches tall, has over 36 points of articulation, LED lighted eyes and chest RT, and comes with 3 pairs of interchangeable hands, swap-out missile-launching shoulder blade armor, light shoulder blade armor, and detachable forearm rockets. Plus you get the circular figure base with a flexible pillar for “in flight” display.
The more I type the faster these are selling out so hurry to Sideshow and secure your order now! The Python will be flying to you in August!
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was one of 2014’s most hotly-anticipated movies. That is quite a boost for the cerebral franchise that had lain dormant for 28 years before the disastrous 2001 remake. That all changed with 2011’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes which introduced Caesar and his smart apes to a new generation of moviegoers, and excitement built in the past 3 years to launch this newest film to a strong opening and the next sequel already in development for a 2016 release. Could this newest Planet of the Apes film be the best yet? If you donate and support Now Playing in the next 2 weeks you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was one of 2014’s most hotly-anticipated movies. That is quite a boost for the cerebral franchise that had lain dormant for 28 years before the disastrous 2001 remake. That all changed with 2011’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes which introduced Caesar and his smart apes to a new generation of moviegoers, and excitement built in the past 3 years to launch this newest film to a strong opening and the next sequel already in development for a 2016 release. Could this newest Planet of the Apes film be the best yet? If you donate and support Now Playing in the next 2 weeks you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes – for Patrons (Limited time release)
Dawn of the Planet of the Apes was one of 2014’s most hotly-anticipated movies. That is quite a boost for the cerebral franchise that had lain dormant for 28 years before the disastrous 2001 remake. That all changed with 2011’s Rise of the Planet of the Apes which introduced Caesar and his smart apes to a new generation of moviegoers, and excitement built in the past 3 years to launch this newest film to a strong opening and the next sequel already in development for a 2016 release. Could this newest Planet of the Apes film be the best yet? If you donate and support Now Playing in the next 2 weeks you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Speed Racer – for Annual Subscribers
After completing their R-rated Matrix trilogy the Wachowski Brothers sought to make a film suitable for a wider audience. They choose to make the big screen adaptation of the Japanese anime show Speed Racer. The film had broken down in development hell for over a decade, but with the Wachowskis in the driver’s seat the film went on the fast-track. But the film stalled right out of the gate. Did this movie deserve its fate, or should it get a jump start on home video? The answer is found in this bonus podcast for Now Playing donors! So to hear it, as well as our Matrix reviews, Donate to Now Playing to find out! Go, Now Playing, go!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Speed Racer – Donation Bonus
After completing their R-rated Matrix trilogy the Wachowski Brothers sought to make a film suitable for a wider audience. They choose to make the big screen adaptation of the Japanese anime show Speed Racer. The film had broken down in development hell for over a decade, but with the Wachowskis in the driver’s seat the film went on the fast-track. But the film stalled right out of the gate. Did this movie deserve its fate, or should it get a jump start on home video? The answer is found in this bonus podcast for Now Playing donors! So to hear it, as well as our Matrix reviews, Donate to Now Playing to find out! Go, Now Playing, go!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Iron Man
In the wee hours this morning Hot Toys revealed a new Iron Man armor on its Facebook page: The Mark XLI “Bones” Armor from Iron Man 3! Unlike some recent Hot Toys 12-inch Iron Man figures which have been kit-bashes and repaints, this one was startling for being such a departure from the previous figures. With raised, bronze pieces over a black body this figure has possibly more detailed sculpting than any other Iron Man Hot Toys armor to date!
More, this figure has a totally new, unique feature: The neck, upper chest, shoulders, elbows, and upper thighs are all magnetic allowing the figure to break apart as seen in the film! The figure comes with flame effects to represent the propulsion jets in each piece. I cannot lie, I’m totally geeking out over how freaking awesome that is! Plus they’ve kept over 36 points of articulation on the body!
The figure comes with 3 pairs of hands and a circular figure stage. It also has LED eyes and chest RT.
Why are you still reading this? Sideshow just put up the pre-order so move your Bones and go order this ultimately cool figure!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Sentinel Maquette
Last year Sideshow Collectibles released their gorgeous, giant Galactus Maquette. Now they have given Galactus a companion — The X-Men killer Sentinel robot!
This killer was originally conceived by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby and has become a staple in X-Men stories including the recent film X-Men: Days of Future Past. Three stories tall with tons of mutant-killing gadgets, these robots mean business!
Now Sideshow gives this character a giant collectible worthy of its fictional stature. Standing 32-inches tall, weighing 20 lbs, this Maquette has a representation of the character in his classic purple and blue color scheme. Plus he has light-up hands and swap-out heads with both classic and modern looks.
You can see a review of the Galactus Maquette in Marvelicious Toys Issue 99 and check out hundreds of photos in the Marvelicious Toys Photogallery. This Sentinel is bound to have the same quality, and no X-Men fan’s collection will be complete without it!
A payment plan is available as low as $81 per month, so don’t wait, get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Gentle Giant Announces SDCC Exclusive Rocket Raccoon Mini-Bust!
Every year since obtaining the Marvel license for mini-busts in 2011 Gentle Giant has released an animal-related San Diego Comic-Con International exclusive. First in 2011 was Squirrelpool. In 2012 came Thor Frog. In 2013 we were given Spider-Ham.
But in 2014, with the Guardians of the Galaxy movie opening one week after Comic-Con, one Marvel animal was the obvious choice for this year’s exclusive–Rocket Raccoon.
Unlike the previous animal releases, however, Rocket is a full-sized mini-bust standing almost 5 inches tall, and coming in at the regular $70 retail price.
This item will be available for sale (and, with the upcoming film, likely really hard to get) at San Diego Comic-Con, but if you’re in Gentle Giant’s Premiere Guild you can pre-order him now and have him shipped to your door! Even if you’re going to the convention, given the heat on this furry guy this summer I highly suggest pre-ordering and quickly–Gentle Giant’s McQuarrie Luke Skywalker Mini-Bust has pre-sold out and I expect Rocket will do the same!
Pre-Order Alert: eFX Collectibles Biker Scout Helmet and Pistol
Up for pre-order now from eFX Collectibles is their Legend Edition Scout Trooper Helmet & Pistol! This is described by eFX as “the most accurate reproduction of this incredible helmet produced to date.” The master molds for the helmet were made from the original master tools ILM used to make the helmets used for Return of the Jedi, and then an original ILM decal sheet was used to make the markings and symbols on the helmet. Finally the helmet is made in ABS, just like the on-screen prop helmets.
Additionally this helmet comes with a replica Biker Scout Pistol, cast from an original, screen-used prop!
The price is $899 and, limited to 500 pieces, this is sure to sell out fast. So if you want yours head to eFX’s web site now!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 12-inch Bomb Squad Clone Trooper
Continuing their pre-San Diego Comic-Con releases, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up a surprise pre-order: the 12-inch Bomb Squad Clone Trooper: Ordnance Specialist. They write:
Called in to protect Naboo from biological warfare, the Clone Ordnance Specialist boasts his trademark orange deco with shoulder insignia, and is fully equipped with everything he needs to get the job done, including blasters, backpack, and wire cutters for diffusing deadly virus bombs.
As an intergalactic conflict rages on, a massive army of Clone Troopers fights in service of the Republic.
This 1/6 scale figure comes with
- Fully Articulated Trooper Body
- Weathered Full Body Armor with Ordnance Specialist Marking Deco
- Detailed Phase I Helmet
- Backpack with Fabric Cover
- Two (2) Virus Bombs with extending Blue Shadow Virus Canisters
- Thirteen (13) Interchangeable hands including:
-Right and Left Fists
-Right and Left Trigger Hands
-Right and Left C-Grip Hands
-Right Salute Hand
-Left Thumbs up Hand
-Two (2) Left Pointer Hands
-One (1) Right Pointer Hand
-One (1) Left Virus Bomb Holding Hand
-One (1) Right Wire Clipper Holding Hand - One (1) Pair Standing Pose Feet
- One (1) Pair Action Pose Feet
- DC-15A Blaster Rifle with Optional Spear Attachment
- DC-15S Blaster Carbine
Rise of the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
More than a decade after Tim Burton’s film failed to make audiences go Ape Fox tried again to revive their historic franchise. Rather than again revisit the story from the original novel writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver and director Rupert Wyatt decided to retell the story of how Apes began their conquest of Earth–a story previously told in 1972’s Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. The result–Rise of the Planet of the Apes–was a critical success and box-office hit, leading to this summer’s hotly anticipated Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. How does this film hold up a few years later, and is James Franco a suitable mad scientist? If you donate and help keep Now Playing Podcast going you can listen now and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Rise of the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
More than a decade after Tim Burton’s film failed to make audiences go Ape Fox tried again to revive their historic franchise. Rather than again revisit the story from the original novel writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver and director Rupert Wyatt decided to retell the story of how Apes began their conquest of Earth–a story previously told in 1972’s Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. The result–Rise of the Planet of the Apes–was a critical success and box-office hit, leading to this summer’s hotly anticipated Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. How does this film hold up a few years later, and is James Franco a suitable mad scientist? If you donate and help keep Now Playing Podcast going you can listen now and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Rise of the Planet of the Apes- for Patrons (Limited time release)
More than a decade after Tim Burton’s film failed to make audiences go Ape Fox tried again to revive their historic franchise. Rather than again revisit the story from the original novel writers Rick Jaffa and Amanda Silver and director Rupert Wyatt decided to retell the story of how Apes began their conquest of Earth–a story previously told in 1972’s Conquest of the Planet of the Apes. The result–Rise of the Planet of the Apes–was a critical success and box-office hit, leading to this summer’s hotly anticipated Dawn of the Planet of the Apes. How does this film hold up a few years later, and is James Franco a suitable mad scientist? If you donate and help keep Now Playing Podcast going you can listen now and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ KING HULK Premium Format Figure
Hulk is an interesting Marvel Comics character. Envisioned originally by Stan Lee as an anti-hero, a monster like the Werewolf and Frankenstein, his comic was cancelled after 6 issues. The character never went away, though, and despite middling sales he became the first Marvel Superhero to have a mass media break-out with the 1970s TV Series. The 80s were a pretty good time for Hulk–in addition to the NBC Saturday morning cartoon he also had a great comics run by Todd McFarlane and Peter David in the late 80s and early 90s that expanded the character and took him to new places psychologically. While he never became as globally recognizable as Spider-Man, Hulk certainly seemed to be Marvel’s #2 guy.
But translating that success to mainstream audiences seemed hard. Ang Lee’s Hulk film, released the year after Sam Raimi’s blockbuster Spider-Man, failed to find an audience. The Marvel Cinematic Universe 2008 Incredible Hulk reboot also disappointed and has been mostly forgotten in all the future Marvel movies. It took Joss Wheadon and The Avengers to make Hulk a stand-out star. While holding off on a Hulk solo film, all the anticipation about Avengers 2 seems to be about the big green guy.
But could even Hulk lift all the Premium Format products Sideshow has now been releasing? Shortly after The Avengers hit theaters Sideshow Collectibles put up for pre-order their Hulk Maquette. This statue is still available to order, and it was a gorgeous, huge piece showing the character in his Avengers movie incarnation.
But for a comic inspired Hulk fans had to wait quite a while. Finally in late 2013 Sideshow offered up Gladiator Hulk, showing the character in armor from Greg Pak’s popular 2006 story arc. While we commented on Marvelicious Toys that anyone unfamiliar with the character arc may confuse this Hulk for an Orc from World of Warcraft, it is a huge piece showing a more comic-book familiar rendition of Bruce Banner’s alter ego. (This statue is set to ship next month and is still available).
But finally, over the past two months, Sideshow has gone back to the original comics and offered not one, not two, but three Incredible Hulk statues. A repaint of the same body, with different heads and, in the case of Gray Hulk, an exclusive shirt, Sideshow let fans have their choice of Hulk in red, gray, or green.
I have pre-ordered all four of those recent Hulk statues, inspired by the quality and craftsmanship shown in the Avengers maquette. But when the Gray Hulk Premium Format went up for pre-order I felt that Sideshow had reached the end of its Hulk run.
Imagine my surprise when Sideshow today announced a new Planet Hulk inspired Hulk Premium Format Figure–King Hulk!
There is no doubt this is an impressive statue. Standing 28-inches tall, weighing 25 pounds, this figure shows off Hulk’s ripped body with his metal arm plate and wielding two weapons. More, it is a Sideshow Exclusive product ensuring rarity. You can pre-order this figure now from Sideshow Collectibles, and Flex Pay options are available as low as $77.14 per month.
But…how many Hulks are too many Hulks?
Let us know in the comments below!
Today only Kotobukiya Fine Art Psylocke, 29% off + Free shipping
Today only Entertainment Earth has a great bargain on the Kotobuikiya Psylocke Fine Art statue. Until midnight PST Psylocke is 29% off with free shipping!
From Kotobukiya! X-Force cannot be stopped! The incredible Fine Art Statue line has captured members X-23, Warpath, Dead pool, Archangel and Wolverine and now it expands to include the telepathic mutant ninja and current leader of Uncanny X-Force, PSYLOCKE! The deadly telepathic mutant stands on a ruined battlefield, focused intently on her enemies and ready to attack! Psylocke balances with her feet spread wide, gripping the broken pillar beneath her with her Japanese tabi-style boots. She leans forward with one katana held in a low guard position before her, her other hand poised behind her to strike. You can see the ninja training at work in Psylocke’s perfectly held pose, with just the floating of her long purple hair and sash to show that the world is affecting her. The powerful mutant wears her distinctive X-Force outfit consisting of a sleek black skin-tight costume, thigh high boots, long fingerless gloves and unique straps around her upper arms and legs plus a white sash belt decorated with the red and black X-Force symbol. As beautiful as she is deadly, Betsy’s likeness is spot on and conveys her otherworldly grace. As an added bonus, interchangeable parts let you display Psylocke with a second katana in her left hand or the swirling purple energy of her psychic knife! Sculpted by Erick Sosa, Psylocke stands over 10 Inch tall on her georama base in 1/6th scale with the other X-Force Fine Art Statues. Get her while you can before this psychic ninja disappears!
Planet of the Apes (2001) – for Annual Subscribers
Planet of the Apes seemed to be lost in time after the fifth movie in 1973 and the failed, short-lived TV Series. To studio 20th Century Fox, however, the Apes were always an opportunity for a return, and attempts to revive the franchise went on for over a decade. They eventually settled on director Tim Burton, who had successfully modernized Batman just over a decade before. While profitable, audiences flung poo at the movie screens (metaphorically) and this rebooted vision terminated after one film. But was the movie as bad as its reputation? With your Gold Level donation to Now Playing Podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Planet of the Apes (2001) – Donation Bonus
Planet of the Apes seemed to be lost in time after the fifth movie in 1973 and the failed, short-lived TV Series. To studio 20th Century Fox, however, the Apes were always an opportunity for a return, and attempts to revive the franchise went on for over a decade. They eventually settled on director Tim Burton, who had successfully modernized Batman just over a decade before. While profitable, audiences flung poo at the movie screens (metaphorically) and this rebooted vision terminated after one film. But was the movie as bad as its reputation? With your Gold Level donation to Now Playing Podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Planet of the Apes (2001) – for Patrons (Limited time release)
Planet of the Apes seemed to be lost in time after the fifth movie in 1973 and the failed, short-lived TV Series. To studio 20th Century Fox, however, the Apes were always an opportunity for a return, and attempts to revive the franchise went on for over a decade. They eventually settled on director Tim Burton, who had successfully modernized Batman just over a decade before. While profitable, audiences flung poo at the movie screens (metaphorically) and this rebooted vision terminated after one film. But was the movie as bad as its reputation? With your Gold Level donation to Now Playing Podcast you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Dr. Doom Premium Format Figure
In the comics Victor Von Doom once said: “How to destroy a man: give him his heart’s desire.”
If that is the case I imagine many Marvel Comics fans will be destroyed by today’s new offering from Sideshow Collectibles–the Dr. Doom Premium Format Figure.
This is the second Premium Format release of the Fantastic Four baddie. The first Dr. Doom Premium Format was released in 2006. Only 1,000 of the regular edition were made, and only 500 of the exclusive (which came with a bonus chalice and base). Being an early release in Sideshow’s Marvel Comics line and so limited has made the price skyrocket on eBay–the exclusive edition recently sold for over $3,200! That Doom and his goblet have long been the holy grail for many Marvel collectors, myself included. Even the more common regular edition, without the golden cup, sells for over $2,000. This has simply priced most people out of getting Dr. Doom in their Premium Format collection.
Now frustrated Doom fans have their chance with this new release, and Sideshow has made sure this new Doom is very different from the last. While the 2006 release had Doom contemplative, sitting on his throne, this release shows Doom ready for action, standing, fist clenched. The Sideshow Exclusive Edition even comes with a swap-out hand holding a gun, showing his lethal intent.
A combination of polystone and soft goods, this new Doom stands nearly 2-feet tall and weighs 12 lbs.
You’ve seen what the previous Sideshow Exclusive Doom sells for, so why are you still reading this? Hurry and secure your Exclusive Doom today! It is expected to ship next May, and Flex Pay is available.
Star Wars Exclusive Action Figure at…WALGREENS?
If you follow Marvel Toy collecting then you know the community has been buzzing this week with Hasbro’s confirmation that the formerly-cancelled Agent Venom Marvel Legends figure will be released this August as an exclusive. More shocking was where the exclusive would be sold–Walgreens, the ubiquitous corner drug-store chain. This is the first time Walgreens has carried an exclusive Hasbro toy, but per our sources another may be coming very soon.
We received an e-mail with the included screenshot from a Walgreens system showing that there also is a Star Wars exclusive action figure coming to Walgreens. The listing reads “STAR WARS BOBA FETT EXCLUSIVE DISP” and is listed as “ACTION FIGURES/ACCESSRY”. The retail price shown is $19.99, which seems inexpensive for a Black Series 6-inch figure (given Walgreens inflated prices) but overpriced for a 3.75-inch figure.
Our source speculates it may be a repainted Boba Fett 6-inch, perhaps in the white McQuarrie colored armor, or perhaps with the Return of the Jedi markings. (Hasbro’s Darryl DePriest has said the intent was to have last year’s San Diego Comic-Con exclusive be the Boba Fett and the regular retail version have Return of the Jedi coloring).
The expected arrival date is listed as August 27, 2014–around the same time the Venom should be hitting the corner of happy & healthy.
We have reached out to our friends at Hasbro asking for confirmation. More news as we get it!
And, as always, all news is considered rumor until confirmed by Hasbro.
What do you want the figure to be? Let us know in the comments below!
Battle for the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
Battle for the Planet of the Apes was always intended to be the final film in this classic sci-fi series. With Fox executives’ eyes firmly on a television future this fifth installment was designed to close out the saga and design a universe full of more episodic adventures. However, with a slashed budget, executive interference, and few returning cast members could this Battle ever be won? With a gold level donation to support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Battle for the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
Battle for the Planet of the Apes was always intended to be the final film in this classic sci-fi series. With Fox executives’ eyes firmly on a television future this fifth installment was designed to close out the saga and design a universe full of more episodic adventures. However, with a slashed budget, executive interference, and few returning cast members could this Battle ever be won? With a gold level donation to support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Battle for the Planet of the Apes- for Patrons (Limited time release)
Battle for the Planet of the Apes was always intended to be the final film in this classic sci-fi series. With Fox executives’ eyes firmly on a television future this fifth installment was designed to close out the saga and design a universe full of more episodic adventures. However, with a slashed budget, executive interference, and few returning cast members could this Battle ever be won? With a gold level donation to support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Fangirls Assemble: Her Universe Announces Marvel Line of Apparel
Her Universe, a company devoted to making clothes and accessories for geek girls, has just revealed a new line inspired by the heroes of Marvel Comics. The press release reads:
NEW YORK, NY – June 19th, 2014 -Her Universe™, the leader in female genre merchandise, announced today a breakthrough collaboration with Marvel Entertainment and Disney Consumer Products to create a fashionable collection of empowering Super Hero apparel for the ever-growing female fan base of Marvel comics, films and television series. The Marvel by Her Universe line of “geek couture” is premiering with an action-packed assortment of Captain America fashion items along with fan favorite Marvel characters on fashion tops, tanks, dresses, cardigans, hoodies, skirts, leggings and more that will inspire fangirls of all ages to channel their inner Super Hero.
Along with Spider-Man and Avenger characters like Loki, Thor and Iron Man, there are also strong female characters such as Black Widow, Elektra, She-Hulk and Ms. Marvel being spotlighted in their own comics and Marvel’s new “Characters and Creators” initiative which aims to speak directly to an audience of women and girls, the Marvel by Her Universe line will celebrate this effort by creating fashion forward products exclusively for the female Marvel fan.
“At Marvel we actively seek innovative opportunities to leverage our iconic characters in the marketplace and expand our storytelling to a larger audience,” said Paul Gitter, senior vice president, licensing, Marvel at Disney Consumer Products. “This collaboration with Her Universe presents our brand in exciting new ways at retail while reinforcing Marvel’s values of empowerment and strength amongst our female demographic.”
Actress and entrepreneur, Ashley Eckstein, who launched Her Universe with her business partner, The Araca Group, in 2010, is well-known to sci-fi fans as the voice of Dagger on the animated series, Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man.
“I am so excited to announce that we have joined forces with Marvel for a Her Universe line of apparel,” said Eckstein. “The fans have been asking us to make Marvel merchandise and it’s been on my wish list for a long time! There are so many compelling characters in the Marvel Universe and it is a dream come true to be able to collaborate with Marvel and design with these celebrated Super Heroes and villains!”
“As long time devoted fans of the Marvel Universe,” added Michael Rego, Chief Executive Officer of The Araca Group, “we feel incredibly humbled to work alongside this most iconic brand – ‘Nuff said!'”
Marvel apparel and accessories from the Her Universe collection will be available in the U.S. at both HerUniverse.com and through national retail outlets such as Hot Topic and online with ThinkGeek.com. Throughout the year, Marvel merchandise will also be available at select conventions including San Diego Comic-Con.
Listen to Her Universe Founder, Ashley Eckstein, talk about Fangirls and Marvel on “The Nerdist Comics Panel” podcast Saturday June 21st at http://www.nerdist.com/
podcast_channel/nerdist- comics-panel-channel/.
The price range for the items ranges from $28.00 for a tank top or jersey to $45.00 for the Captain America Costume Dress.
While the logo indicates the clothing line can pull from all corners of the Marvel Universe these initial offerings have a strong Avengers link with the majority of items being Captain America or S.H.I.E.L.D. related. The only exception to this is the Graffiti Rogue Tank at this time.
Marvelicious Toys Podcast co-host and noted Marvel T-Shirt collector Marjorie Carvalho told us that the Avengers tank top and the Captain America Cardigan were two items she was eyeing from these initial offerings though she said, “ I wish that [the cardigan] didn’t have the shield on the back.” She stated she was very interested in being able to judge these items in person at the Her Universe booth at San Diego Comic-Con in July.
Stay tuned to the Marvelicious Toys Podcast for further coverage of the Her Universe clothing line, especially in their coverage of San Diego Comic-Con next month!
What do YOU think of the Her Universe Marvel collection? Let us know in the comments below!
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- The first items in Her Universe’s Marvel Line
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
After the comedy showcase that was Escape from the Planet of the Apes viewers probably wouldn’t expect a violent commentary on race relations as a follow-up. But that was exactly what was delivered in the fourth film of the series — Conquest of the Planet of the Apes starring Roddy McDowall returning in the new role of ape revolutionary leader Caesar. This film was heavily modified to be family-friendly for release, but still had a harder edge than the previous films. Does this change of tone fit the series? Listen to this preview, then donate to support Now Playing podcast to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
After the comedy showcase that was Escape from the Planet of the Apes viewers probably wouldn’t expect a violent commentary on race relations as a follow-up. But that was exactly what was delivered in the fourth film of the series — Conquest of the Planet of the Apes starring Roddy McDowall returning in the new role of ape revolutionary leader Caesar. This film was heavily modified to be family-friendly for release, but still had a harder edge than the previous films. Does this change of tone fit the series? Listen to this preview, then donate to support Now Playing podcast to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Conquest of the Planet of the Apes – for Patrons (Limited time release)
After the comedy showcase that was Escape from the Planet of the Apes viewers probably wouldn’t expect a violent commentary on race relations as a follow-up. But that was exactly what was delivered in the fourth film of the series — Conquest of the Planet of the Apes starring Roddy McDowall returning in the new role of ape revolutionary leader Caesar. This film was heavily modified to be family-friendly for release, but still had a harder edge than the previous films. Does this change of tone fit the series? Listen to this preview, then donate to support Now Playing podcast to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 12-inch Cade Bane – Denal Disguise
Up for preorder now at Sideshow Collectibles is one of the most accessory-laden 12-inch Star Wars figures to date! From the Clone Wars series you can now order Cad Bane in Denal Disguise!
From the Season 2 Clone Wars episode “Cargo of Doom” Cad Bane donned the clone armor to infiltrate Anakin Skywalker’s ship. Now you can have this variant of the blue Duros bounty hunter.
But more than just swappable heads on the figure, this set comes with 13 different interchangable hands, action feet, two blasters, plus two different backpack types.
And if you hurry and order the exclusive version you also get a special Clone Denal themed figure stand.
This is up for order now at Sideshow’s site. So get yours while you can!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow 20-inch Iron Man Mk 42 Maquette
It’s time to pre-order the new bad-ass baby brother of Tony Stark’s armor collection — the Mark 42 armor from Iron Man 3!
Working with Legacy Effects, the company behind Iron Man 3’s impressive visuals, Sideshow Collectibles has now created what they call “the ultimate screen-accurate representation of Stark in his latest and greatest armor.”
This piece is called a “maquette” but it is a perfect fit for the Sideshow Premium Format line of Marvel Cinematic Universe figures. Built to one-quarter scale (20 inches tall!) with exacting detail and a tremendous likeness of Robert Downey Jr. this statue is sure to rock your collection!
Pre-orders are open now, so secure your order today at SideshowCollectibles.com!
Escape from the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
The first Planet of the Apes film ended in a way that begged for the story to continue. The follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes, however, ended on such a note that it seemed impossible there were more stories to tell of the future Earth under simian rule. Yet three more movies are in the original series, and the third tells how friendly apes Cornelius and Zira were able to Escape From the Planet of the Apes and travel to California in the year 1973. Does this change in time, place, and attitude sit well with Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob, or would they like to Escape the film? If you DONATE and support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Escape from the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
The first Planet of the Apes film ended in a way that begged for the story to continue. The follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes, however, ended on such a note that it seemed impossible there were more stories to tell of the future Earth under simian rule. Yet three more movies are in the original series, and the third tells how friendly apes Cornelius and Zira were able to Escape From the Planet of the Apes and travel to California in the year 1973. Does this change in time, place, and attitude sit well with Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob, or would they like to Escape the film? If you DONATE and support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Escape from the Planet of the Apes – for Patrons (Limited time release)
The first Planet of the Apes film ended in a way that begged for the story to continue. The follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes, however, ended on such a note that it seemed impossible there were more stories to tell of the future Earth under simian rule. Yet three more movies are in the original series, and the third tells how friendly apes Cornelius and Zira were able to Escape From the Planet of the Apes and travel to California in the year 1973. Does this change in time, place, and attitude sit well with Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob, or would they like to Escape the film? If you DONATE and support Now Playing you can listen and find out!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Electro from The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Before The Amazing Spider-Man 2 hit theaters in the US toy maker Hot Toys was teasing a giant Rhino figure, based on the character’s mech suit in the film. But now that the film is out and Rhino was little more than a cameo, I’m much happier that the second Amazing Spider-Man 2 Hot Toys figure released is Max Dillon himself, Electro!
Scheduled to ship in April of 2015, this figure is charged with features, such as a light-up translucent head based on the likeness of Jamie Foxx. (Though I may be mistaken, I can’t think of a single other Best Actor Oscar winner to have a translucent light-up head!) He also has over 30 points of articulation in the body, light-up wrists, 4 pairs of interchangeable heads, and the blue/black outfit Electro wore in the film’s climax.
Don’t hesitate, move at the speed of light and order your Hot Toys Electro today!
Beneath the Planet of the Apes – for Annual Subscribers
The original Planet of the Apes was full of surprising twists and turns. From talking, horse riding apes to the Statue of Liberty at the end, audiences never knew what to expect. Could any sequel be as shocking and match the cultural impact of the original? That was the challenge for 1970 follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes. Charlton Heston’s Taylor returns, as do Nova, Dr. Zaius, and many other familiar ape faces, but now they must face a new, subterranean danger. If you donate to support Now Playing you can go underground with Jakob, Stuart, and Arnie and hear the review now!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Beneath the Planet of the Apes – Donation Bonus
The original Planet of the Apes was full of surprising twists and turns. From talking, horse riding apes to the Statue of Liberty at the end, audiences never knew what to expect. Could any sequel be as shocking and match the cultural impact of the original? That was the challenge for 1970 follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes. Charlton Heston’s Taylor returns, as do Nova, Dr. Zaius, and many other familiar ape faces, but now they must face a new, subterranean danger. If you donate to support Now Playing you can go underground with Jakob, Stuart, and Arnie and hear the review now!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Beneath the Planet of the Apes – for Patrons (Limited time release)
The original Planet of the Apes was full of surprising twists and turns. From talking, horse riding apes to the Statue of Liberty at the end, audiences never knew what to expect. Could any sequel be as shocking and match the cultural impact of the original? That was the challenge for 1970 follow-up Beneath the Planet of the Apes. Charlton Heston’s Taylor returns, as do Nova, Dr. Zaius, and many other familiar ape faces, but now they must face a new, subterranean danger. If you donate to support Now Playing you can go underground with Jakob, Stuart, and Arnie and hear the review now!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Captain America – The Winter Soldier on DVD and Blu-Ray 9/9
MARVEL’S FIRST AVENGER RETURNS IN THE YEAR’S
BIGGEST BLOCKBUSTER ACTION ADVENTURE!
MARVEL’S CAPTAIN AMERICA:
THE WINTER SOLDIER
Own The Movie That Changed Everything, along with Exclusive Bonus Features!
Get it First on Digital 3D and Digital HD, plus Disney Movies Anywhere August 19th, and on 3D Combo Pack, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand September 9th
BURBANK, Calif. May 30, 2014— From the studio that brought you the biggest Super Hero movie of all time, Marvel’s The Avengers, comes this year’s #1 live-action adventure, Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier, available early on Digital 3D and HD August 19th, 2014, and on 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand September 9th, 2014, from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment. Saluted by critics as “action-packed” (NY Daily News), “thrilling” (Cinema Blend) and “better than The Avengers” (Access Hollywood), this blockbuster second chapter in the Captain America series teams Marvel’s First Avenger, Captain America, with Black Widow and new ally The Falcon as they battle their most mysterious and powerful enemy yet, the Winter Soldier.
Directed by Anthony and Joe Russo from a screenplay by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely and starring Chris Evans as Captain America, Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow, Sebastian Stan as The Winter Soldier, Anthony Mackie as The Falcon, with Robert Redford as Alexander Pierce and Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury,Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier arrives on 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital HD armed with explosively entertaining bonus features, including Making-of Featurettes, Audio Commentary, Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes, Bloopers and More…
Bring home the movie that changed everything and expand your Marvel collection in the following formats with bonus features as listed:
Bonus Materials Overview for These Products:
Digital 3D, HD, & SD*
3D Blu-ray Combo Pack (3D BD + Single Disc BD + Digital Copy)
Blu-ray
Includes:
- Making-of Featurettes
- Audio Commentary
- Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
- Bloopers
- And More…
*Digital bonus offerings will vary per retailer
1-Disc DVD
Includes:
- Making-of Featurette
- Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scene
Feature Run Time: Approximately 136 minutes
Rating: Feature Film: “PG-13” in U.S., G in Canada (CE and CF)
Additional Bonus Features Not Rated
Aspect Ratio: 3-D Blu-ray Feature Film = 2.40:1
Blu-ray Feature Film = 2.40:1
DVD Feature Film = 2.40:1
Pre-Order and Deal Alert: Marvel Movie Funko POP Vinyl Figures!
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A Funko Exclusive POP and Three Others at a Great Discount! |
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| Attention Funko POP Vinyl collectors! Today is a great day to pick up four new characters for your collection!
First and most important, earlier this week the Amazon Exclusive Unmasked Star Lord Guardians of the Galaxy POP was put up for pre-order. It sold out in just a number of hours making collectors fear having to pay a high price on the secondary market, but this morning it is back available for order! So if you want this exclusive POP do not hesitate, go and order it today! Plus today only Entertainment Earth is having a great sale on the POP Vinyls from Captain America: The Winter Soldier. Get Captain America, Black Widow, or Winter Soldier for only $6.50 each! This sale ends tonight, so snatch up the savings now!
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Pre-Order Alert: We have a (Gray) Hulk from Sideshow Collectibles
Hulk has always been one to change colors. The original Stan Lee vision for Hulk was that he would be gray in color, and he was in his first appearance in Incredible Hulk #1. Printing process limitations had Hulk turn green for issue 2, and green he stayed for 20 years–until Incredible Hulk issue 324 when writer Allen Milgrom changed the character to a slightly weaker, smarter, and gray version.
Gray Hulk persisted into a spotlight run of Hulk comics written by Peter David and illustrated by up-and-coming artist Todd McFarlane (whatever happened to that guy?). Incredible art and even better writing combined to turn Hulk into Joe Fixit and several other incarnations before David turned him Green once more.
In the years since Gray Hulk has made several memorable cameos and appearances, and now he can appear in your collection! Sideshow Collectibles put up for pre-order the Gray Hulk Premium Format Figure, completing the trio of Hulk statues.
Like the others, this statue is 20-inches tall, weighs a hefty 20 pounds, and has detailed sculpting with a unique Gray Hulk head. But if you get the exclusive edition you get an extra accessory not found elsewhere — an orange shirt inspired by Hulk’s first story in Incredible Hulk #1 (pictured right). I checked with Sideshow and this shirt is removable so if you get the exclusive version you can display him topless or in his torn orange shirt.
So hurry and get your pre-order for Gray Hulk in today!
If you want other Hulks, the Red Hulk Exclusive Premium Format Figure has less than 10 remaining before it is sold out! It is limited to 500 pieces so you’ll have a truly limited collectible. The Green Hulk Exclusive Figure’s edition size has yet to be determined but is still available for order.
Planet of the Apes (1968) – for Annual Subscribers
In 1968 movie audiences were stunned and riveted by Planet of the Apes, an allegorical sci-fi film based on a book by French novelist Pierre Boulle. It quickly garnered four sequels, a TV show, a comic series, and even a cartoon. Now this franchise has new relevance as prequel, reboot movies draw in new fans. But how does the original Charlton Heston film hold up 46 years later? Jakob, Arnie, and Stuart review the original Planet of the Apes in this bonus episode. Get your hands on the damn dirty Apes podcasts and support Now Playing by donating!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Planet of the Apes (1968) – Donation Bonus
In 1968 movie audiences were stunned and riveted by Planet of the Apes, an allegorical sci-fi film based on a book by French novelist Pierre Boulle. It quickly garnered four sequels, a TV show, a comic series, and even a cartoon. Now this franchise has new relevance as prequel, reboot movies draw in new fans. But how does the original Charlton Heston film hold up 46 years later? Jakob, Arnie, and Stuart review the original Planet of the Apes in this bonus episode. Get your hands on the damn dirty Apes podcasts and support Now Playing by donating!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Planet of the Apes (1968) – for Patrons (Limited time release)
In 1968 movie audiences were stunned and riveted by Planet of the Apes, an allegorical sci-fi film based on a book by French novelist Pierre Boulle. It quickly garnered four sequels, a TV show, a comic series, and even a cartoon. Now this franchise has new relevance as prequel, reboot movies draw in new fans. But how does the original Charlton Heston film hold up 46 years later? Jakob, Arnie, and Stuart review the original Planet of the Apes in this bonus episode. Get your hands on the damn dirty Apes podcasts and support Now Playing by donating!
NOTE: This Podcast is for our Patrons of Now Playing’s Podbean Campaign pledging $50 or more. This podcast will only be available to Patrons until September 30, 2017.
You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Exclusive Sixth Scale Wolfpack Clone Trooper
Sideshow Collectibles’ latest sixth scale figure is up for preorder – the Wolfpack Clone Trooper from the 104th Battalion!
Shipping this November, the figure comes with
- Fully Articulated Trooper Body
- Battle Weathered Full Body Armor with 104th Marking Deco
- Detailed Phase II Helmet with Wolfpack Deco
- JT-12 Jet Pack
- Backpack with Fabric Cover
- Thirteen (13) Interchangeable hands
- One (1) Pair Standing Pose Feet
- One (1) Pair Action Pose Feet
- DC-15A Blaster Rifle with Optional Spear Attachment
- DC-15S Blaster Carbine
- ‘Star Wars’ logo Base
- Base with Wolfpack Designation Artwork
So place your order now at Sideshow Collectibles!
The Matrix Revolutions – for Annual Subscribers
“Everything that has a beginning has an end.” That mantra is spoken repeatedly in The Matrix Revolutions, the conclusion of the Wachowski Brothers’ original vision. But is this a case where the ends justify the means? In 2003 this film was met with widespread fan dissatisfaction, but with over 10 years of distance Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie are ready to jack in one last time. Does the film deserve its reputation? If you DONATE and SUPPORT NOW PLAYING you can find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Matrix Revolutions – Donation Bonus
“Everything that has a beginning has an end.” That mantra is spoken repeatedly in The Matrix Revolutions, the conclusion of the Wachowski Brothers’ original vision. But is this a case where the ends justify the means? In 2003 this film was met with widespread fan dissatisfaction, but with over 10 years of distance Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie are ready to jack in one last time. Does the film deserve its reputation? If you DONATE and SUPPORT NOW PLAYING you can find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Falcon from Captain America: The Winter Soldier
I do what he does, only slower.
In Captain America: The Winter Soldier a standout new character was The Falcon, as played by Anthony Mackie. As seen on screen this version of Sam Wilson is a deep character with a realistic backstory, having served in the war and seen his wingman shot down. Plus he got to kick butt in some (literally) high-flying action!
Hasbro only released a version of this figure in 3.75-inch scale, but now you can get the single best replication of the movie Falcon from Hot Toys!
Not only does Hot Toys’ Falcon figure have the authentic movie likeness that we’ve come to expect, but he also has a plethora of extras…far more than I ever expectedincluding:
- Approximately 30 cm tall
- Four (4) pairs of interchangeable gloved palms including:
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of relaxed palms
– One (1) pair of palms for holding weapons
– One (1) pair of palms for holding wings - One (1) dark grey and black vest
- One (1) grey t-shirt
- One (1) pair of black bicep guards
- One (1) pair of camouflage patterned pants with U.S. flag emblem and shin guards
- One (1) pair of black boots
- Two (2) submachine guns
- One (1) flight backpack with LED light up function (red light, battery operated)
- One (1) pair of attachable fully spread wings
- One (1) pair of flight backpack assembly parts
- One (1) pair of goggles
- Diamond-shaped dynamic figure stand with Falcon nameplate, the movie logo, and flexible pillar
It’s an incredible figure that is likely not to last, so order yours now from Sideshow Collectibles!
The Matrix Reloaded – for Annual Subscribers
It took four years for movie fans to re-enter the Matrix. From 1999 to 2003 there were no Matrix movies, comics, or even video games. But in 2003 that all changed as the Wachowski Brothers unleashed an onslaught of Matrix media on fans, including not one but two films that promised to bring the Matrix saga to a close. The first of those films was The Matrix Reloaded. Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus were back but they brought dozens of new characters increasing the complexity of the film series. Fans left theaters divided on the sequel they had anticipated for so long, but was the film that much of a departure from the original? DONATE TO NOW PLAYING to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy
The Matrix Reloaded – Donation Bonus
It took four years for movie fans to re-enter the Matrix. From 1999 to 2003 there were no Matrix movies, comics, or even video games. But in 2003 that all changed as the Wachowski Brothers unleashed an onslaught of Matrix media on fans, including not one but two films that promised to bring the Matrix saga to a close. The first of those films was The Matrix Reloaded. Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus were back but they brought dozens of new characters increasing the complexity of the film series. Fans left theaters divided on the sequel they had anticipated for so long, but was the film that much of a departure from the original? DONATE TO NOW PLAYING to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Matrix Reloaded – for Annual Subscribers
It took four years for movie fans to re-enter the Matrix. From 1999 to 2003 there were no Matrix movies, comics, or even video games. But in 2003 that all changed as the Wachowski Brothers unleashed an onslaught of Matrix media on fans, including not one but two films that promised to bring the Matrix saga to a close. The first of those films was The Matrix Reloaded. Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus were back but they brought dozens of new characters increasing the complexity of the film series. Fans left theaters divided on the sequel they had anticipated for so long, but was the film that much of a departure from the original? DONATE TO NOW PLAYING to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Matrix Reloaded – Donation Bonus
It took four years for movie fans to re-enter the Matrix. From 1999 to 2003 there were no Matrix movies, comics, or even video games. But in 2003 that all changed as the Wachowski Brothers unleashed an onslaught of Matrix media on fans, including not one but two films that promised to bring the Matrix saga to a close. The first of those films was The Matrix Reloaded. Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus were back but they brought dozens of new characters increasing the complexity of the film series. Fans left theaters divided on the sequel they had anticipated for so long, but was the film that much of a departure from the original? DONATE TO NOW PLAYING to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Premium Format Daredevil, Hot Toys Iron Man Busts Series 2
It’s Thursday, and that means new Marvel pre-orders from Sideshow Collectibles! Today they put up for pre-order a long-awaited new Premium Format Figure and eight new Iron Man armors from Hot Toys!
For the Premium Format Figure we have — Daredevil! While some classic Marvel characters like Captain America, the Red Skull, and Hulk are getting their second Premium Format statues (technically Hulk is on his 4th, not counting Skaar!) Daredevil, despite being a long-time comic book favorite and an original Stan Lee creation, has never gotten the quarter scale treatment. I have seen many people on Sideshow’s Twitter feed, Facebook page, and site comments asking when ol’ hornhead would finally get the devil’s due. The answer is today–Sideshow has finally put a Daredevil Premium Format Figure up for pre-order!
Showing the classic hero in his red outfit, Daredevil is in a striking action pose, mid-strike, holding his billy clubs in one hand and ready to throw a punch with the other. He stands 17-inches tall and weighs 12 lbs, and is expected to ship in March, 2015.
Surprisingly there is no exclusive edition of this figure. While Daredevil doesn’t have the gadgets of some heroes, I thought an unmasked portrait or swap-out hand would be a given. Even in cases where there were no accessories Sideshow would often make an exclusive edition with an art print. However there is only one version of Daredevil here. (Though, given their recent repaints of Premium Format Figures like Deadpool, Storm, the Stormtrooper, and 3 different Hulk paint jobs, I would not be surprised in 2-3 months to see a Yellow-clad Daredevil Premium Format show up in an extremely limited edition).
But if you prefer your heroes in armor, Hot Toys has 8 new Iron Man collectibles for you! Continuing to rock the House Party Protocol, Hot Toys has put up for pre-order Series 2 of their sixth-scale collectible busts. Seven of these busts are available for order individually–the Mark VII, Mark 20-Python, Mark 22-Hot Rod, Mark 23-Shades, Mark 27-Disco, Mark 28-Jack, and Mark 40-Shotgun. However if you order the set of 8 you get an exclusive bust unavailable for individual purchase–the holographic light-up Mark XLII! (is it me or does the Disco armor look like Mystique with a mohawk?) You can pre-order this set now and it’s expected to ship in January, 2015!
And as always thank you for using our affiliate links to support the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
The Next Wave of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends are Revealed
At Toy Fair International, 2014 Hasbro revealed the first three waves of their new (more expensive) Marvel Legends Infinite Series figures, those being Captain America, The Amazing Spider-Man, and Guardians of the Galaxy–each wave tying directly in with a theatrical Marvel film’s release. But in my interview with Dwight Stall (which you can hear in Issue 110 of the Marvelicious Toys Podcast) a secret wave of Legends was teased.
It appears we now have confirmation that wave is going to be X-Men themed, and contain several figures that were cancelled from previous waves.
We received the image on the right from Marvelicious Toys listener John Classified. A shot taken from a Japanese catalog shows the X-Men themed wave will have Magneto, Wolverine, Storm, Stryfe, Marvel NOW Cyclops, and the build-a-figure appears to be the long-awaited Jubilee!
This release makes perfect sense. Many of these figures, including Stryfe and Jubilee, were shown at the Hasbro booth display at San Diego Comic-Con. The toolings were complete, Hasbro just needed a retail outlet to distribute the figures. And with the release of the upcoming film X-Men: Days of Future Past an X-Men themed wave of figures seemed not only logical but inevitable.
More, unlike the Marvel Studios films, such as Thor: The Dark World, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, and The Avengers, where Marvel Comics and Hasbro work together to make figures representing the on-screen looks for these heroes, in recent years when 20th Century Fox puts out a Marvel movie the toys are always comic based. Hasbro only released 4 limited articulation, comic based figures to capitalize on last year’s film The Wolverine. And when I asked at Toy Fair in 2011 about figures for the film X-Men: First Class I was told that Marvel would make toys for their First Class, the comic book series, not the film.
So clearly this wave is great for X-Men fans and Legends collectors alike. I’m excited to see Hasbro finding ways to get some of these “in limbo” Legends figures out for retail.
But the final question remains…could it be possible for the Pheonix Five Cyclops to be a variant for Marvel NOW Cyclops? One can hope.
We’ll report as soon as we hear, so please follow us at Marvelicious Toys and subscribe to our podcast for all the latest updates!
May the SALES Be With You!
It’s May the 4th time again, and what started as an internet joke has become a major marketing tool for Lucasfilm and their partners to offer discounts on Star Wars items, or release new, exclusive ones! With all the news that is going to be released on the 4th, keep checking back to this page as we update with all the sales info!
And do you know of a sale we missed? E-mail us the details at show@swactionnews.com
Toys and Statues
Entertainment Earth has two sales going on! May 4th only all in-stock Star Wars Action Figures are on sale! This includes older figures, comic packs, and the new Black Series figures in both 3.75-inch and 6-inch scales! But also at Entertainment Earth all week you can get Star Wars statues and busts for 20% off. This sale includes pre-orders so get your Kotobukiya Mara Jade or your Gentle Giant Padme, Yoda, and Holiday Special Boba Fett!
Not a sale, but Sideshow Collectibles unveiled a new life-sized Star Wars statue — Yoda. This is the third life-sized item recently, added to the Han Solo in Carbonite and Boba Fett statues.
Sideshow also put up for pre-order their exclusive 1/6 Scale R2-D2 Deluxe figure. The exclusive edition comes with 3 extra accessories – a saw arm, a laser welding arm, and a spacecraft linkage arm!
Amazon.com has all their FX Lightsabers for 37% off! This is good through May 10th. Plus keep your eye on Amazon for the Black Series 6-Inch Stormtrooper which has been popping in and out of stock.
LEGO.com has another exclusive minifigure for May 4th this year — Darth Revan from Knights of the Old Republic! He is free at Lego.com with a purchase of $75 or more. You can also get a free Star Wars LEGO poster with any Star Wars LEGO Purchase.
Midtown Comics has ALL their Star Wars statues, figures, and more for 20% off May 4th only.
Rancho Obi-Wanis offering, today only, 15% off all of their fixed-price eBay auctions!
Plus Star Wars Action News sponsor Brian’s Toys has added nearly 1,000 Vintage Figures to their web site, so if you’re wanting to complete your vintage Star Wars collection now is the time! And through May 18th you can get $15 off any order at Brian’s Toys $75 or more by using coupon code 4THBWU at checkout!
Books, Comics, and Video
Dark Horse comics is again having their digital May the 4th Megabundle. This is 150 digital Star Wars comics for just $100, including series like Crimson Empire, Dark Times, and the new Star Wars series! They also have a May the 4th Kids MegaBundle for only $30 which comprises 18 comics and small books aimed at younger readers.
With Star Wars Episode 7 coming out the Star Wars Insider will have plenty of new, exclusive content. And through May 5th you can get 20% off with a subscription plus a free, exclusive T-Shirt!
Amazon also has their Star Wars DVDs and Blu Rays on sale, including the Star Wars films and the five seasons of The Clone Wars.
Amazon’s Star Wars eBooks and eComics are also on sale with tons of graphic novels for 99 cents or $1.99 and dozens of novels at discount as well (even if most of them are Legends now).
Gus Lopez and Duncan Jenkins are having a sale on their Star Wars Collectors’ books! Throughout all of May you can purchase their Price Guide for only $25, or bundle it with their guide to Star Wars Prototypes for just $50.
Clothes
Her Universe is celebrating the day with 40% off most of their Star Wars items, plus unveiling new designs and a “mystery tee”
Also Think Geek is having 20% off most of their Star Wars items including a Han in Carbonite rug, Star Wars chopsabers, their Dark Roast Coffee, Hoodies, and so, so much more!
Cufflinks.com is having 37% off all their Star Wars items on May 4th only. They have a very cool, wide selection of ties, socks, money clips, and (shocker!) cufflinks!
Amazon has some exclusive REBELS T-Shirts as well.
Hot Topic has 20% off all their Star Wars items, which is mostly T-Shirts but also some stickers, posters, car accessories, and POP Vinyl figures.
For even more Star Wars T-Shirts We Love Fine has 25% off their Star Wars T-Shirts May 4th only with coupon code MAYTHEFOURTH14
Video Games and Tech
Steam has their Star Wars gaming bundle on sale for 2/3 off, getting you 14 classic Star Wars games, including ttlefront II, Jedi Knight 1 and 2, The Force Unleashed, Knights of the Old Republic, Dark Forces, and many more for $33.99.
Sony and Microsoft also both have sales on their digital console games on their respective online stores.
If you still have a need for thumb drives (or just like cute designs) Mimoco has 20% off all their Star Wars MIMOBOTs on May 4th only.
Misc
Super 7 has a new silkscreened 16 x 20 Darth Vader poster, limited to 200, available starting today.
Check back here as we will be updating the page all day long, and if there’s a sale of note that we missed e-mail us!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Jango Fett Sixth Scale Figure
He’s just a sixth-scale figure trying to make his way in the universe
It has been some time since Sideshow Collectibles put up for order a new Star Wars 12-inch scale figure. They previewed an upcoming sixth-scale Artoo Detoo, but then today they put up for pre-order a totally different figure: Jango Fett!
This villain from Attack of the Clones is loaded with accessories and detail. With a fully articulated body and a detailed flight suit including the “durasteel” Armored Vest, Thigh, Knee, Shin, and Boot armor, he also has a belt with pouches, a dual holster belt, left and right gaultnets, boots, a poncho, two Jetpacks, and more! Plus he comes with two Blaster Pistols and a Kamino Saber Dart! Also, the blasters and jet packs have flare attachments for a more action-oriented display.
And if you order the Sideshow Exclusive Edition today you get a swap-out head, showing Jango Fett unmasked, wearing his pilot’s head gear!
This figure is available for pre-order now for $219.99, and payment plans available as low as $73.33 per month, so head to Sideshow Collectibles and get yours now!
Pre-Order Alert: eFX Collectibles Captain America Shield Replica
Update: Yesterday we posted eFX Collectibles’ new Captain America Shield. In 12 hours this product completely sold out from eFX Collectibles, however a number of these shields were reserved for eFX’s online retailers. You can still order this shield now from Entertainment Earth! Don’t miss out on your last chance to own this piece without the eBay markup!
For several years eFX has been showing off their Avengers prop replicas. Thor’s helmet and hammer, Iron Man’s mask, and Captain America’s shield. As reported on the podcast Marvelicious Toys, eFX Collectibles’ commitment to high quality delayed this shield and put its eventual release in jeopardy.
But word came down from Wondercon that this high-end prop replica is in production! It’s expected to ship in August, 2014 and the pre-orders begin today, May 1st, 2014!
The shield is a full-scale replica, measuring 24-inches in diameter. The master pattern for this item was cast from the original molds used to make the “hero” screen used prop, and those same shields were repainted and reused for The Winter Soldier film. And like the shields seen in the movie this replica is made from fiberglass and metal to provide a lightweight, durable item. Simply put, this will be the most authentic Captain America shield replica you can buy.
This eFX Collectibles release is limited to 1500 pieces, and comes with a wall display, numbered plaque, prop story and certificate of authenticity. All for the price of $599 (plus shipping and, for California residents, sales tax).
eFX Collectibles is offering two payment methods. The first 200 people to choose to pay the full amount in advance will get a shield before everyone else, part of the first shipment of this prop. Additionally they will receive a low edition number and free shipping.
Otherwise you can choose to pre-order with a $200 non-refundable deposit. A second payment of $200 will be due when the shield is in stock, and a final payment of $199 + tax and shipping will be due 30 days after payment 2.
With only 1,500 of these props available I expect they will sell out much faster than the Thor helmet and hammer. So at 9am PST hurry to eFX Collectibles’ site and get yours!
And while there be sure to check out their other collectible–the Iron Man 2 Mark V Armor Suitcase Mobile Fuel Cell! A scaled-down version of Tony Stark’s suitcase, this is a collectible with a purpose: to charge your USB devices! Inside this suitcase is a 12,000 mAh battery that can fully charge 5 iPhone 5Ss or 1 iPad Air. It can power some smartphones directly for 45 hours! And yet it still has the detail associated with an eFX Collectibles product, modeled from the original prop and 3D digital files used in the film. Plus it has 3 LEDs on the front to indicate its current power remaining. At only $99 it’s a useful device, or a great, but small, collectible to sit on display!
Both are available this morning at eFX Collectibles.
Why Now is the Time To Order Your Kotobukiya Mara Jade Statue
News was revealed last Friday on StarWars.com that the Star Wars Expanded Universe is no longer canonical. As discussed on the Star Wars Action News podcast covering C2E2 2014, the previous Star Wars continuity is being rebranded “Legends”. Now a new Star Wars canon begins, with only the six Star Wars films and The Clone Wars TV Series considered gospel.
This turns 23 years of novels, beginning with Timothy Zahn’s Heir to the Empire into an extended “what if” scenario. Chewbacca was no longer killed by a moon. Luke was never Lando’s wingman on the latter man’s quest for a wife. Princess Leia never had three children (two of whom were later killed).
And this also means Luke Skywalker never met, married, and had a child with Mara Jade. More, Jade never existed. All the retcons of this Force-strong female working in secret for the Emperor, infiltrating Jabba’s palace, and later murdered by her nephew, are all now an alternate take on what happens in the Star Wars universe.
With this rebranding all future Star Wars fiction, from books to comics to movies to video games, is being monitered by a Lucasfilm Story Group. Some characters and events can be cherry picked from the “Legends” timeline if future creators wish, but as of today we face a new Star Wars where Mara Jade is not only dead, she never existed at all.
Which is why I placed my order today for the Kotobukiya Mara Jade Bishoujo Statue. And I highly suggest you do the same. Plus, if you haven’t already, get Kotobukiya’s first Star Wars Bishoujo statue, Jaina Solo.
I have asked the reps at Kotobukiya about the Mara Jade statue on several occasions, most recently in February at New York Toy Fair 2014. It was at that event that Hasbro Vice President Daryl DePriest mentioned that his company was no longer allowed by Lucasfilm to make or rerelease characters from the Star Wars Expanded Universe. Given that stance I have been worried that Kotobukiya’s second Star Wars Bishoujo statue may never see the light of day.
Now scheduled for release within the next 30 days I do now believe Kotobukiya’s Mara Jade will be released. However, given the character’s deep love in the community (the well-known Star Wars book site Club Jade, is named after her), I now think this statue will sell very quickly.
The Jaina Solo Bishoujo statue sold out from resellers and the price went up considerably on the secondary market. Realizing the demand for that statue Kotobukiya produced another run and she is now priced at $49.95 shipped on Amazon.
But with the new status quo of the Star Wars Expanded Universe, wiping both of these characters away, I wonder:
1) Once these statues sell out, would Kotobukiya choose to do another run for a character that’s removed from continuity?
2) If Kotobukiya chose to make more of these statues, would Lucasfilm allow them to continue to manufacture non-canonical characters? (Especially given that Hasbro cannot?)
3) If these statues, especially Mara Jade, become as rare and coveted as I expect, what will happen to their prices on the secondary market?
Once before Kotobukiya produced a Bishoujo statue they were not allowed to make another run of–DC Comics’ Catwoman. That statue, that originally retailed for about $65, is now over $200 on eBay. I can certainly see a similar fate for Mara Jade.
And that is why I placed my order today, to ensure I received a Mara Jade statue from Kotobukiya’s first shipment, securing her place in my collection. The Expanded Universe may reboot, but my fandom of those characters continues, and I want them represented in my Star Wars display.
If you are fans of these characters, I suggest you do the same and order your Mara Jade today!
Do you agree? Disagree? Will you be ordering the Mara Jade? Let me know in the comments below!
The Matrix – for Annual Subscribers
In 1999 sci-fi fans were blown away by a new vision of rebel freedom fighters struggling against an oppressive ruler. New CGI effects helped to create visions never before seen in film. No, we’re not talking about The Phantom Menace but The Matrix. Part Terminator, part Star Wars, part video game, The Matrix created a cult following and a fashion style. Now, fifteen years later, does this film still hold up? If you DONATE AND SUPPORT NOW PLAYING PODCAST you can take the red pill and Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie will show you how deep the rabbit hole goes!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
The Matrix – Donation Bonus
In 1999 sci-fi fans were blown away by a new vision of rebel freedom fighters struggling against an oppressive ruler. New CGI effects helped to create visions never before seen in film. No, we’re not talking about The Phantom Menace but The Matrix. Part Terminator, part Star Wars, part video game, The Matrix created a cult following and a fashion style. Now, fifteen years later, does this film still hold up? If you DONATE AND SUPPORT NOW PLAYING PODCAST you can take the red pill and Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie will show you how deep the rabbit hole goes!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert! Sideshow Premium Format EXCLUSIVE Incredible Hulk!
He’s mean, he’s green, he’s mad, and he’s up for pre-order! It’s Sideshow’s new Incredible Hulk Premium Format Figure!
Standing over 20-inches tall and weighing 20 lbs, this Hulk is the most strongest Premium Format Figure there is!
And if you order now you can get the exclusive version with the swap-out head with a classic Hulk portrait!
So hurry and put your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Zardoz – for Annual Subscribers
The gun is good! This movie is bad! It’s Zardoz! From the director of Deliverance and starring Sean Connery, the most iconic James Bond, comes what is widely considered one of the worst films of all time. Attempting to be a modern update of 2001, with a tinge of The Wizard of Oz, it’s a psychedelic trip in a floating head. But is it a trip you should take? Thanks to your donation, well above and beyond even the gold level donation, you can listen to find out!
NOTE: This listing is for annual subscribers to our show. You can also get this movie review individually for a small donation.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Zardoz – Donation Bonus
The gun is good! This movie is bad! It’s Zardoz! From the director of Deliverance and starring Sean Connery, the most iconic James Bond, comes what is widely considered one of the worst films of all time. Attempting to be a modern update of 2001, with a tinge of The Wizard of Oz, it’s a psychedelic trip in a floating head. But is it a trip you should take? Thanks to your donation, well above and beyond even the gold level donation, you can listen to find out!
NOTE: This Podcast was originally made available to donors for a limited time. To celebrate 10 years of Now Playing Podcast we have made this show available again!
You can get this episode individually, or you can subscribe for 12 months to access all our bonus shows.
Every dollar you donate goes to make this show the best it can be. Thank you for your support and we hope you enjoy the podcast!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Jean Gray Premium Format Figure
Perhaps the thing I like most about Sideshow Collectibles’ recent Premium Format Figures based on Marvel Comics characters is their ability to create sets. Initially Sideshow would put out some of Marvel’s most popular characters. After the “new” of the license wore off, however, the fine folks at Sideshow have endeavored to create groups of figures where a fan could buy the one character they like most, or buy entire sets to collect a team. They’ve done this with their quarter-scale statues from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, they’ve done this with their comic-based Avengers, and they’ve done it with the X-Men. Now, continuing to deepen the roster of X-Men characters comes their exclusive Jean Grey Premium Format Figure.
For fans of this founding member of the X-Men (and the original lone female character) this is an awesome standalone piece. 18-inches tall this statue shows Jean in her 90s yellow and blue outfit. Plus the exclusive edition has a swap-out head that shows her hair in the ponytail as seen in the animated TV series.
But that nod to the cartoon shows that Sideshow is savvy with their selection of characters. Previous X-Men figures Cyclops, Gambit, and Psylocke come with the matching “X” base allowing for a unified display. However their previous exclusive Rogue Premium Format really shows their commitment to the 1990s cartoon, as that figure also had an exclusive head to resemble her cartoon appearance. (Strangely, however, Sideshow’s Storm Premium Format Figure focused on her more revealing outfit and a stone base, making her the one X-Man star the 90s cartoon to not get a figure from Sideshow totally different than her animated appearance).
The exclusive Rogue goes for $800-$1000 on eBay. While it seems there are more fans of Rogue than Jean Gray (at least in her non-Phoenix attire) there’s no doubt the Sideshow exclusive version will sell fast and cost more on the secondary market. So don’t hesitate–place your order now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Update – Chewbacca out of Wave 4 Case, Stormtrooper, Boba Fett Back in
Chewbacca will no longer be part of Hasbro’s Star Wars 6-Inch Black Series figure line. The Episode III Obi-Wan figure is also no longer included. Instead the wave will include carry-forwards of the hard to find 6-inch Boba Fett and Stormtrooper figures.
We first reported the rumor that Wave 4 of Hasbro’s 6-Inch Black Series action figure line may not have Chewie included. This wave was originally solicited as three new fligures (Chewbacca, Anakin Skywalker, and a Clone Trooper) plus one carry-forward (the truly awful Episode III Obi-Wan Kenobi, watch our review of this figure on Star Wars Action News Episode 421). Per the rumor, Lucasfilm did not like Chewie’s hunched pose in the small window box and the figure may be delayed until the new blue and black, taller window box was used.
Now DorksideToys.com has revealed that rumor was true, Chewbacca will not be included in Wave 4. Instead of Chewbacca and Ob-Wan Hasbro has included the two hardest to find figures in this line: Boba Fett and the Stormtrooper. Clearly this will help fans get these figures at retail pricing. With the Stormtrooper and Clone Trooper in this wave it’s possible Boba Fett may even become common as troop builders, buying multiples of just those two figures, leave droves of the bounty hunter behind.
Are you excited by this change, or upset at Chewbacca’s delay? Let us know in the comments below!
PREORDER ALERT: Hot Toys Captain America and Steve Rogers Figures Set
| Hot Toys continues their line of figures from the new film Captain America: The Winter Soldier with not one but two new Steve Rogers figures!
First is Captain America in his Stealth S.T.R.I.K.E. Suit. This blue and white outfit that Steve wears in the film is based on the Commander Steve Rogers outfit from the comics. This 1/6 scale figure has a newly developed helmeted head sculpt and an outfit with embossed patterns, plus a special light blue metal shield as seen in the film. This is the vision of Captain America from the new movie and one no Hot Toys collectors should be without! The figure comes with – Nine (9) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including: Costume: Weapon: Accessories: |
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| But Steve isn’t always in uniform, and so you can order him alone or you can order a 2 pack where we also get him in his civvies with the Steve Rogers Hot Toys figure. This has a new unmasked head sculpt which is sure to make Cap collectors happy. The previous releases had a gritted-teeth facial expression that some fans did not appreciate, so this serious-faced head sculpt is a very welcome change of pace. Plus, with all the detail Hot Toys is known for, the face has detailed wrinkles and skin texture. He also comes with an exclusive battle damaged metal shield.
The figure also includes: Four (4) pairs of interchangeable palms including: Costume: Weapon: Accessories:
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| Both figures have over 30 points of articulation and a Captain America: The Winter Soldier movie logo figure stand. And both are up for preorder now, Captain America individually or both as a set, at Sideshow Collectibles!
We know at least two more Hot Toys figures are coming from this film: Winter Soldier himself, plus Falcon, so it’s a great time to be a Hot Toys figure collector! “The price of Hot Toys is high, but it’s a price I’m willing to pay!” And also still available for pre-order are the following hot toys: Marvel Winter Soldier Marvel Sixth Scale Figure |
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PREORDER ALERT: Thor and Thor Frog from Sideshow Collectibles
Today, with the opening of Captain America: The Winter Soldier in theaters, most Marvel fans have their minds on the First Avenger, but Sideshow Collectibles is bringing our attention back to the Mightiest Avenger with two new preorders of items for Thor! (would this be a preor-thor?)
First, in Sideshow’s one-quarter scale Premium Format Figure line comes Modern Age Thor. Based off Olivier Coipel’s designs for the thunder god in J. Michael Straczynski’s 2007-2009 run this figure looks as powerful as the character. From the pre-release photos Sideshow has outdone themselves with the sculpting of Thor’s metallic mail. A mixed-media piece, Thor has a fabric tunic with gold piping, but a sculpted cape guaranteed to accentuate the pose of Thor ready to strike! With the winged helmet atop his head and Mjolnir in his hand, this statue is one of the best Sideshow has revealed to date.
And it certainly has the size and heft of Thor’s hammer. The statue stands 21 inches tall and weighs 15 pounds! Surely a centerpiece for any Thor fan!
As usual, Sideshow has also put up for pre-order the exclusive edition of this statue which comes with a swap-out hand allowing Thor to wield the mighty (and giant) Odinsword. While not as iconic as the stone hammer, fans of Marvel’s Norse gods will surely snatch this up and, as always, drive the exclusive version’s secondary market cost high.
You can order the regular or exclusive Thor Premium Format Statue now at Sideshow Collectibles!
And there is also another, more unique, Sideshow item up for pre-order: the Thor Frog Diorama, with a design based off Walt Simonson’s 1980s comic where Loki turns Thor into a Frog. This statue is much smaller, standing 6 inches tall, but has a really detailed sculpt and glossy paint application. Sideshow has gone more amphibian with this statue than Gentle Giant did on their Throg mini-bust. With Thor Frog sitting on a stump holding Frogjolnir, this is a cute accent piece that will certainly draw the eye of someone viewing your display.
The Thor Frog Diorama is $99, but if you buy the diorama and the Premium Format Thor you save $20, bringing the diorama down to a really cheap $79!
So hurry and order one or both Thor products today from Sideshow Collectibles! And thank you for supporting our podcasts by using our links whenever ordering from Sideshow!
Also, some other Marvel Premium Format Figures still available from Sideshow
- Marvel Red Hulk Marvel Premium Format(TM) Figure
- Captain America – The First Avenger Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Captain America Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Gladiator Hulk Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Apocalypse Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Black Widow Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Red Skull Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles
- Captain America Premium Format™ Figure by Sideshow Collectibles Captain America: The Winter Soldier
Hear a review of The Punisher Premium Format Figure on Marvelicious Toys Podcast Issue 112!
RUMOR: Could Chewbacca Delay 6-Inch Black Series Wave 4?
Could Hasbro have a problem with Chewbacca? That is the word that comes to us from a reliable source in the UK. Please note everything in this article should be taken as rumor until confirmation from Hasbro.
At Toy Fair International 2014 Hasbro announced the new package for the Star Wars Black Series figures. At the time they said the new box with the larger window area allowed for inclusion of taller figures into the line, such as Darth Vader and, yes, Chewbacca. But even with the new box design the Chewbacca figure, based on actor Peter Mayhew’s 7′ 2″ height, had to be squeezed in, his knees and legs bent to fit in the space allotted. As Han Solo might say “I don’t think they had wookiees in mind when they designed her.”
Per our source, this odd posturing of Solo’s hirsute companion had originally been approved by Hasbro’s partners at Lucasfilm Licensing, but now they have reconsidered and dictated that Hasbro needs to find another way to let the wookiee in.
Chewbacca was intended to be one of three new figures in Wave 4 of this action figure line, along with an Episode II Clone Trooper and Episode III Anakin Skywalker. That wave was expected to ship to stores and online retailers in the next 2 months. Per our source, that wave may now need to be delayed.
However, this may end up being good news for Star Wars collectors. Rather than delay the entire wave, our source tells us that they may ship Wave 4 as planned, but replace Chewbacca with an older figure in the line, and the top two choices being considered are Wave 2’s Boba Fett and Wave 3’s Stormtrooper. Both figures have been difficult to find at retail and secondary market prices have been high, so a rerelease of either figure would be welcome relief for struggling Star Wars fans.
Once more, all of this is unconfirmed rumor at this time, but we wanted to make you aware as soon as we could. Obviously the final news will be known if/when this wave is delayed, reconfigured, or if Chewbacca shows up in a radically different pose than Hasbro’s pre-release promotional photos.
Got any news? E-mail us at show@swactionnews.com!
BACK UP FOR ORDER — Preorder Alert: Guardians of the Galaxy Marvel Legends Figures
Update: Apr 1, 2014 – 20:43 These figures are again in stock so place your order now!
Update: Apr 1, 2014 – 18:16 Amazon has changed the status of all the figures to “Currently Unavailable” meaning their original allocation is likely sold out. Please keep your eyes here and follow Marvelicious Toys on Facebook or on Twitter and we’ll let you know if/when these are again available!
Original text follows:
They are the Guardians of the Galaxy. Or they’re “a bunch of a-holes.” Either way, they’re making their way to a theater near you this August in the newest Marvel Cinematic Universe film! But in June the toys for the movie are scheduled to start hitting–and the pre-orders have now begun. Right now you can order all 6 Guardians of the Galaxy Marvel Legends figures from Amazon.com!
Already this summer Marvel movie fans and collectors have seen the crazy hunt for Legends figures. From Hasbro’s The Amazing Spider-Man 2 Legends line where Carnage and Toxin go for $30 and up to Captain America: The Winter Soldier toy line with Black Widow going for over $60, it’s been difficult to find these figures in stores at all. But now at Amazon you can get all six of these figures for the MSRP of $21.99, and free shipping of orders over $35 (or with Amazon Prime).
The figures that make up this Toy Line are:
From the Guardians of the Galaxy film:
Star-Lord
Rocket Raccoon
Gamora
Drax
From the Guardians of the Galaxy comic:
Plus buy all six and build Groot–the giant tree character voiced by Vin Diesel!
If the Captain America and Spider-Man Legends are any indication these will likely pre-sell out fast. Save yourself gas and time and get your order in now at Amazon.com!
Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Winter Soldier Movie Masterpiece Series Figure
Sideshow Collectibles and Hot Toys are certainly hoping to build on the hype for next week’s release of Captain America: The Winter Soldier for I cannot recall another time when they released two new Hot Toys figures in two days. Yesterday’s Captain America Golden Age Movie Promo Edition sold out in under 24 hours (Wait List is Still Available), and now to stage that awesome fight from the movie comes The Winter Soldier Hot Toys one-sixth scale Movie Masterpiece Series figure.
Standing 12-inches tall this figure has 30 points of articulation and an amazing likeness of Sebastian Stan as Winter Soldier with two new heads, one masked and one unmasked with movie-accurate make-up. You also get 4 pairs of interchangable palms (the left ones are gloved), and a ton of weapons including a machine gun, remote bomb launcher, submachine gun, spike with sheath, 2 daggers, and 3 pistols. Plus a pair of goggles and a figure stand with the Winter Soldier nameplate.
While this figure is certainly not going to sell out as fast as Cap, I have no doubt that with this movie’s expectation it will sell fast, so be sure to get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Red Hulk Premium Format Figure – Exclusive and Regular Editions
Sideshow’s Premium Format Figure collection is hitting hard–with a Hulk! Coming right out of Jeph Loeb’s 2008 Hulk series, the Red Hulk, later revealed to be longtime Hulk nemesis General Thunderbolt Ross irradiated, invulnerable, and mad. It’s the first of three Hulk Premium Format Figures Sideshow will be releasing in 2014!
This statue has gorgeous sculpting that fits the REd Hulk perfectly, with huge muscles and veins. It stands 20 inches tall and 20 inches wide, weighing over 18 pounds!
More, if you hurry you can get the exclusive edition that comes with a swap-out head with the yellow X on the forehead from when Rulk was hit with Thor’s hammer.
It’s expected to ship this September and the edition size is still to be determined, so don’t miss out–get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!
SOLD OUT: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.
Yesterday we announced Sideshow Collectibles has offered the Captain America – Golden Age Suit Movie Promo Version of the figure. Today we have to announce that this figure sold out in less than 24 hours. The figure is now going for over $400 on eBay, versus the $209.99 retail price.
As mentioned in yesterday’s article, Hot Toys’ Movie Promo Versions of figures are highly limited, soar in price on the secondary market, and thus are snatched up by collectors and speculators alike. With Captain America selling out even faster than the previous Movie Promo Iron Man Mark VII this seems to be increasing.
But if you want this Captain America in his classic suit, needed if you want to recreate the climactic battle from The Winter Soldier film, all hope is not lost. Sideshow has opened the Wait List on this item. But do not hesitate–Wait List orders are filled first come first serve.
Sideshow’s Wait List allows collectors who missed out on a piece to hopefully score one due to cancelled orders, credit card declines, or unexpected stock increases. But the earlier you get on the Wait List the greater your chances of actually getting this piece at retail price and not having to scour eBay for it.
So do not delay. If you even think you want this figure, head to Sideshow now to get on the Wait List. And remember with future exclusive and Movie Promo Version Hot Toys–a preorder made is a hundred dollars saved.
Preorder Alert: Hot Toys Captain America – Golden Age MOVIE PROMO VERSION from Winter Soldier film.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier opens in theaters April 4th, but Hot Toys is letting Marvel collectors get their orders in now for one-sixth scale figures represented in the film!
First up for order was the Black Widow Movie Masterpiece Series figure, and today Sideshow Collectibles has offered the Captain America – Golden Age Suit Movie Promo Version of the figure.
The movie-accurate collectible figure is specially crafted based on the image of Chris Evans as Captain America in his “Golden Age” suit from the film. Featuring a brand new helmeted head sculpt, newly developed body with tailored costume and a specially made metal circular Captain America shield with distressed effect.
The outfit, despite being based on the outfit seen in Captain America: The First Avenger is markedly different, with a new red stripe down the middle and other detailing that makes this figure not even close to a rerelease of that previous Hot Toys offering.
With this figure you get a new helmeted head sculpt, wnd each head sculpt is specially hand-painted to depict a movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture. Below the neck Cap has a newly developed body with over 30 points of articulation, nine pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:
– One (1) pair of relaxed palms
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of palms for holding shield
– One (1) pair open palm
– One (1) pointing right palm
Cap’s costume has:
-One (1) dark blue and grayish-white uniform with red and white stripes on midsection and star emblems on chest and arms
-One (1) pair of dark blue, gray, and red suspenders
-One (1) pair of dark blue pants
-One (1) brown leather-like belt with pouches
-One (1) pair of brown boots
Plus you get Captain America’s iconic shield with distressed effect and a figure stand with Captain America nameplate and the movie logo.
And I cannot stress enough, this is the Movie Promo Version of the figure, emaning it is limited worldwide. In the US this is limited to Sideshow Collectibles, and internationally only available at various conventions and shows. The previous Movie Promo Figures, like the Avengers’ Iron Man Battle Damaged Mark VII, have sold out quickly and been very hard to find, and expensive, on the secondary market. So don’t delay, hurry to Sideshow and order yours now!
Deal Alert: Gentle Giant C6 Exclusive Clone Trooper Statue – 35% Off
Gentle Giant’s Star Wars statues are often in high demand with edition sizes over 1,000. And Clone Troopers from the Star Wars prequel films are fan-favorites–they’re like stormtroopers with big guns and good aim! So it makes no sense to me, no sense at all, that Gentle Giant’s Clone Trooper Lieutenant Statue, exclusive to Star Wars Celebration VI in 2012 and with an edition size of only 600, is not only still available but (today only) 35% off at Entertainment Earth.
This statue, showing the blue-accented clone in a kneeling position, stands 10 inches tall, and comes with the Gentle Giant signature black base, with a high-gloss top that reflects the bright white armor of the statue.
It’s Entertainment Earth’s daily deal, and I have to believe that quantities of this statue are dwindling. In years to come fans and collectors may well kick themselves for passing on this piece, so get yours today!
Pre-Order Alert! HOT TOYS Black Widow from Captain America: The Winter Soldier
The next film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America: The Winter Soldier, has fans very excited. With Steve Rogers fighting the metal-armed Winter Soldier, plus Marvel heroes Nick Fury, Black Widow, and The Falcon all along for the ride, fans are excited and the Hasbro toys are flying off the store shelves. Now Hong Kong based toy company Hot Toys has put up for pre-order their first release from this new film — Natasha Romanoff as the Black Widow.
Featuring a new likeness of actress Scarlet Johansson, updated for her appearance in Winter Soldier with movie-accurate facial expression, straight real fabric hair, and movie-accurate make-up. The body has over 28 points of articulation, and the outfit has buckles with boots, leather-like trims, and belts with holsters on the thighs.
More, this piece is loaded with accessories, including 9 interchangable cloved palms, two pistols, 2 sets of Widow’s Bite bracelets (with and without shock effect) , a mobile phone, and a Hot Toys Black Widow base.
The previous Hot Toys Black Widow figures have jumped in price on the secondary market, even the lower-detailed Iron Man 2 version. So don’t miss out on this new Hot Toys figure, order yours now from Sideshow Collectibles — the only authorized Hot Toys reseller in the United States!
Thor: The Dark World hits DVD, Blu-Ray, and Digital Today
Thor: The Dark World comes out on Blu-ray today.
Benefiting from the “Avengers bump”, coming 18 months after that 1.5 billion grossing hit, Thor: The Dark World has become the third highest grossing film in the Avengers series.
But with the home video release fans must make a choice. Continuing the unfortunate, but common, practice of splitting bonus features across multiple exclusive retailers fans have to choose which features are worth their dollars.
The Blu-ray is available in two editions, a single-disc 2-D version, or a multi-format 2 -disc version which includes the movie in 2-D, a 3-D Blu-ray copy of the film, and a code for a HD Digital download of the film through iTunes or UltraViolet.
Both Blu-ray releases have the same basic set of bonus features: Extended and Deleted scenes (including an extended celebration scene, more with the dark elves, and Jane learning about the aether), gag reel, the 30 minute featurette “A Brothers’ Journey: Thor & Loki”, and a look at “Scoring Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World” with composer Brian Tyler. Of most interest to Avengers film fans are likely the audio commentary with Director Alan Taylor, Producer Kevin Feige, and fan-favorite actor Tom Hiddleston, as well as an exclusive look at April’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier.
Also of note is the film short called All Hail the King. Since the release of Captain America: The First Avenger on Blu-ray Marvel has included short features that help tie the Marvel cinematic universe together. With All Hail the King however Marvel has taken it to the next level, bringing back acclaimed, award-winning actor Sir Ben Kingsley to reprise his role as Trevor–the fake Mandarin from Iron Man 3. Given that character’s polarizing response among Marvel’s film fans this follow up should be of great interest to see how Feige caps off the story of this comic relief actor/villain from last May’s Iron Man film. The description of the short is: After the events of Marvel’s Iron Man 3, Trevor Slattery is an infamous icon. He’s also locked up in a high-security prison. Luckily, his newfound profile has brought him celebrity and protection on the inside – and the actor has gladly agreed to an in-depth profile with a documentary filmmaker
But then brick and mortar retailers Best Buy, Target, and Walmart all have exclusive versions of Thor on Blu-ray, and digital sites iTunes and Amazon have exclusive features as well.
Best Buy has the 3D film in a gorgeous steelbook case. The only difference here is packaging, but steelbook collectors will certainly want to check this version out.
Target has an exclusive Loki O-Sleeve over the Blu-ray. Again, there is no new content on the discs (in the past Target has often included an extra disc with bonus features), but you do also get one month exclusive access to Marvel Unlimited, allowing you to read digital comics for free on your computer, phone, or tablet.
Walmart is the only brick and mortar to have a version with exclusive bonus features. Through the VUDU service Walmart customers can view a bonus featurette “Loki: The God of Mischief.” This includes a look at Hiddelston’s 2013 appearance at San Diego Comic-Con International where he appeared on stage in the full Loki costume.
Amazon also has a digital exclusive through their Amazon Instant Video service. This bonus content looks at the visual effects work that went into making Thor: The Dark World.
Finally iTunes offers a bonus featurette looking at the comic book origins of the Dark Elves, Algrim the Kursed, and how these bad guys transitioned from the page to the big screen.
Fortunately if you want one of the physical discs you can likely get the iTunes bonus content as well. On Star Trek Into Darkness and other Blu-ray films with iTunes digital copies the exclusive iTunes bonus content is able to be viewed as well. I will update this article later with confirmation that this is still the case with Thor: The Dark World.
For those without a Blu-Ray player, a bare bones DVD release is also available. Disney did not include a DVD with the multi-format Blu-ray release forcing those without a Blu-ray player to buy either an additional version or a version with no bonus features. Cover variation collectors be aware – the DVD version has a red stripe down the spine, the Blu-Ray version has a blue stripe.
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- Thor The Dark World Blu-Ray Release Package
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- Thor The Dark World Multi-Format Blu-Ray Release
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- Thor The Dark World DVD Release Package
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- Thor The Dark World Best Buy Exclusive Steelbook Blu-Ray Package
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- Thor The Dark World Target Exclusive Loki O-Sleeve
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You can hear our review of Thor: The Dark World as well as the other Avengers films at NowPlayingPodcast.com
Press Release: Marvel to Publish Star Wars Comics & Graphic Novels
UPDATE 12:16PM CST: Dark Horse has released their own Press Release. It is printed below the Marvel Press Release.
Graphics added by Venganza Media; not part of original press releases.
Marvel Press Release:
DISNEY’S LUCASFILM AND MARVEL ENTERTAINMENT JOIN FORCES TO PUBLISH STAR WARS™ COMICS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS
Jedi, Sith, and the rest of the Star Wars Universe Come to Marvel Comics in 2015
SAN FRANCISCO, CA (January 3, 2014) – The Walt Disney Company’s Lucasfilm Ltd. and Marvel Entertainment are joining forces to bring new Star Wars adventures to readers across the galaxy, with Marvel granted exclusive rights to create and publish Star Wars comics and graphic novels beginning in 2015.
The agreement marks a homecoming for the Star Wars comic books. Marvel Comics published the first Star Wars comic book, Star Wars #1, in March 1977, which went on to sell more than 1 million copies. Marvel Comics published its Star Wars series for nine years. In 1991, Dark Horse Comics took over the license, publishing fan-favorite titles like Dark Empire and Star Wars: Legacy. Last year, Dark Horse released The Star Wars #1, an adaptation of George Lucas’ original rough-draft screenplay for the film, garnering rave reviews and national media attention and ranking among the top-selling Star Wars comics of all time.
“Dark Horse Comics published exceptional Star Wars comics for over 20 years, and we will always be grateful for their enormous contributions to the mythos, and the terrific partnership that we had,” said Carol Roeder, director of Lucasfilm franchise publishing, Disney Publishing Worldwide. “In 2015, the cosmic adventures of Luke, Han, Leia and Chewbacca will make the lightspeed jump back to Marvel, to begin a new age of adventures within the Star Wars universe.”
“We here at Marvel could not be more excited to continue the publication of Star Wars comic books and graphic novels,” said Marvel Worldwide Publisher and President, Dan Buckley. “The perennial brand of Star Wars is one of the most iconic in entertainment history and we are honored to have the opportunity to bring our creative talent pool to continue, and expand Star Wars into galaxies far, far away.”
“We’re incredibly excited by this next chapter in the Star Wars saga,” said Andrew B. Sugerman, executive vice president of Disney Publishing Worldwide. “Bringing together the iconic Lucasfilm and Marvel brands to tell new stories will allow us to continue to thrill lovers of the original Star Wars comic books and entertain generations to come.”
Marvel has continued to push comic book publishing forward with innovations and experiments like motion comics and digital-only releases, in addition to its deep, ongoing catalog of monthly series and graphic novels created by some of the industry’s most gifted artists and writers.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © 2013 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
About Marvel Entertainment, LLC
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information, visit marvel.com.
About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks in the United States and/or in other countries of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM 2013 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.
About Disney Publishing Worldwide
Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books and magazines with over 700 million products sold each year. DPW consists of an extensive worldwide licensing structure as well as vertically integrated publishing imprints, including Disney Book Group in the U.S. and Disney Libri in Italy. DPW publishes a range of children’s magazines globally, as well as Disney kids magazines in the U.S. Disney English is DPW’s English language learning business, which includes Disney English learning centers in China and a worldwide retail-licensing program. DPW’s digital products include bestselling eBook titles as well as original apps. Headquartered in Glendale, California, DPW publishes books, magazines, and digital products in 85 countries in 75 languages. For more information visit www.disneypublishing.com.
Dark Horse Press Release:
The End of an Era
All things come to pass. So too, do all licensed deals. I am sad to report that Disney, the new owner of Lucasfilm, has notified us here at Dark Horse of their intention to move the Star Wars publishing license to another of their recent acquisitions, Marvel Comics, beginning in 2015. This will end a partnership that has lasted more than two decades.
For those who are new to the industry, Dark Horse revolutionized the treatment of comics based on films. After a history of movie properties being poorly handled with little regard for execution and continuity, Dark Horse took a new approach, carefully choosing licenses and approaching them with excitement and creative energy. Our goal was to create sequels and prequels to the films we loved, paying careful attention to quality and detail, essentially treating those films as though they were our own. Star Wars has been the crown jewel of this approach. We began chasing the title as far back as 1989, and with the launch of Tom Veitch and Cam Kennedy’s Dark Empire, a new era in comics was born. I’m not ashamed to admit that we were Star Wars geeks, and we have been determined to spare neither effort nor expense in the pursuit of excellence.
It is ironic that this announcement comes at a time when Dark Horse is experiencing its most successful year ever. For obvious reasons, we have prepared for this eventuality by finding new and exciting projects to place on our schedule for 2015 and beyond. Will they take the place of Star Wars? That’s a tall order, but we will do our best to make that happen. In the meantime, 2014 may be our last year at the helm of the Star Wars comics franchise, but we plan to make it a memorable one. We know that fans of the franchise will expect no less. The Force is with us still.
Mike Richardson
About Dark Horse
Founded in 1986 by Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Comics has proven to be a solid example of how integrity and innovation can help broaden a unique storytelling medium and establish a small, homegrown company as an industry giant. The company is known for the progressive and creator-friendly atmosphere it provides for writers and artists. In addition to publishing comics from top talent such as Frank Miller, Mike Mignola, Neil Gaiman, Brian Wood, Gerard Way, Geof Darrow, Guillermo Del Toro and comics legends such as Will Eisner, Neal Adams, and Jim Steranko, Dark Horse has developed its own successful properties such as The Mask, Ghost, Captain Midnight, and X. Its successful line of comics, books, and products based on popular properties includes Star Wars, Mass Effect, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Aliens, Conan, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Halo, Serenity, The Legend of Zelda, Game of Thronesand Domo. Today Dark Horse Comics is the largest independent comic book publisher in the US and is recognized as one of the world’s leading publishers of both creator-owned content and licensed comics material.
Sideshow has two Premium Pre-Orders for the Marvel fans!
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Quite an expensive day to be a fan of Marvel statues as Sideshow has not one but TWO pre-orders today.
First, for the Captain America comics fan, is the Premium Format Red Skull statue. A perfect companion piece to the Captain America (put up for pre-order Nov 7, exclusive edition still available) this Red Skull stands with his gun cocked and ready. He has an incredibly detailed suit and leather coat that is an awesome blend of comic-style with real-world fashion. It has a flair of Axis World War II military outfits, tying the Red Skull statue very closely with his WWII origins.
More, if you order the Exclusive Edition of the Red Skull you get a swap-out head showing a more classic comic Red Skull portrait with the full eyebrows! Truthfully the exclusive edition is a must-have for this piece and will make many fans order early, so if you want yours get it now–swap-out heads often double in price on eBay.
This Red Skull stands 21-inches tall and is scheduled to ship in September, 2014.
Also available today is the first statue in Sideshow’s 1/4 scale Iron Man movie line. These maquettes are the same scale as Sideshow’s Premium Format figures to display well together, and the new Iron Man pieces will assemble perfectly with any other Sideshow Avengers statues you may own. It’s unclear how deep this line of statues will go (if they do the entire House Party Protocol the price could exceed that of many small cars) but their first offering is up and it’s The Iron Patriot armor from Iron Man 3.
Iron Patriot stands 22-inches tall, a high gloss paint application, and a switch-out head with a realistic Don Cheadle face. It’s truly a collectible worth saluting, and ships next December (yes, in 2014)
Are you ordering just one, both, or neither? Let us know in the comments below!
Hot Toys re-releases Hulk, adds Bruce Banner Figure. Preorder Now.
Sideshow keeps the new Hot Toys figures coming! Yesterday they released the exclusive, much anticipated Iron Man in MIDAS Armor (now on waitlist but you MIGHT be able to still get one). Now, today, they have put up for pre-order their Hulk and Bruce Banner figures.
Bruce Banner is a totally new figure from Hot Toys. This figure is incredibly detailed with an eerily realistic Mark Ruffalo likeness, his purple shirt outfit from The Avengers, his glasses, and Loki’s Chitauri scepter. With over 30 points of articulation this figure likely moves more than Banner ever did on screen! Expected to ship in September, 2014 this figure is available alone for $189.99
But who wants a Banner but not a Hulk? The Hot Toys Hulk figure has found an incredible (pardon the pun) life in the aftermarket. The Hot Toys Hulk has been long sold out online, and eBay prices spiked as high as $600, with an average being $400-$500 for the big green guy. Now, through a package deal, Hot Toys is offering you a second chance to get the Hulk figure as part of a combo pack with Bruce Banner. This pack is a Sideshow Exclusive, and comes with brand new Hulk accessories–a base showing a “Smashed” Chitauri plus two accessories that look like steel girders for Hulk to weild. Plus you get the huge Hulk figure that was previously available, that stands over 16.5 inches tall, has 20 points of articulation, and looks like he jumped off the movie screen.
Get Banner to keep your Avengers assembled, or get the pair, they ship in September but Flex Pay is available. Get your order in now at Sideshow’s site! And remember, if ordering these Hot Toys or any item from Sideshow, please use the links from our site or e-mail to help support the Marvelicious Toys site and podcast!
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