Venganza Media Gazette

Tech, TV, Movies, Games, and More

Issue 163: I Have Protection

This episode of Marvelicious Toys is jam-packed with collecting and convention goodness!

First, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they look at the recent conventions — Wizard World St. Louis, Wizard World Madison, Emerald City Comic-Con, and even a look ahead to San Diego Comic-Con International!

Then the hosts go to Civil War over all the new toys and products being released. From a bevy of food tie-ins to Hasbro’s Titan Hero figures to Jada Toys Die-Cast Cap and Iron Man, it’s all covered in this show.

Plus Hot Toys has two new figures up for pre-order: Ant-Man and Black Panther! Those are covered, along with the upcoming exclusive Deadpool Blu-ray sets, Diamond Select Toys’ new Retro Deadpool and Disney Exclusive Spider-Man Select, and more.

To top it all off, this show reviews not one but two high-end Hulk vs Hulkbuster Age of Ultron sets — the Cosbaby three-pack from Hot Toys, and the Egg Attack exclusive set.

All this and a in-depth discussion on protecting your POPS, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean

Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/fvghmm/MT163.mp3

      

April 13, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 163: I Have Protection

Issue 163: I Have Protection

This episode of Marvelicious Toys is jam-packed with collecting and convention goodness!



First, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they look at the recent conventions — Wizard World St. Louis, Wizard World Madison, Emerald City Comic-Con, and even a look ahead to San Diego Comic-Con International!



Then the hosts go to Civil War over all the new toys and products being released. From a bevy of food tie-ins to Hasbro’s Titan Hero figures to Jada Toys Die-Cast Cap and Iron Man, it’s all covered in this show.



Plus Hot Toys has two new figures up for pre-order: Ant-Man and Black Panther! Those are covered, along with the upcoming exclusive Deadpool Blu-ray sets, Diamond Select Toys’ new Retro Deadpool and Disney Exclusive Spider-Man Select, and more.



To top it all off, this show reviews not one but two high-end Hulk vs Hulkbuster Age of Ultron sets — the Cosbaby three-pack from Hot Toys, and the Egg Attack exclusive set.



All this and a in-depth discussion on protecting your POPS, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 13, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 163: I Have Protection

The Spirit (2008)

Frank Miller was given a director’s credit on Robert Rodriguez’s Sin City. With that film’s success Miller went on to direct his own feature film. The result was The Spirit, based on Will Eisner’s iconic comic book crimefighter. The movie’s visual style and tone strongly resembled Sin City but the reception didn’t match that earlier film. Is this film a Sin worth committing? Listen to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-spirit-2008

      

April 12, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Spirit (2008)

The Spirit (1987)

When fans think of The Spirit they probably think of Will Eisner’s 1940’s comic book crimefighter. Or they may think of Frank Miller’s 2008 film adaptation of the same name. Only the hard core Spirit fans and ’80s trivia buffs would think of the film we’r

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-spirit-1987

      

April 5, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Spirit (1987)

Episode 473: Blu Rey

Tomorrow The Force Awakens arrives on Blu-Ray — the first new
live-action Star Wars home release in 11 years. There are a handful of
exclusive versions and many tie-in sales. Prep for your Tuesday shopping
by joining Arnie and Marjorie to find out which version is right for
you!

Plus tomorrow also marks the rerelease of the Disney Store
exclusive Elite figures — including a new Boba Fett! Find out how you
can score these figures that have commanded top dollar on eBay.

With a report from Wizard World Chicago, a review of the latest Funko
Smuggler’s Bounty box, and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star
Wars Action News!

And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/aamrge/swan473.mp3

      

April 4, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 473: Blu Rey

Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit!

Last weekend at Chicago’s C2E2 convention was a rare gathering of Arnie, Marjorie, Justin, and other Marvelicious Team Members. Together they shopped, they chatted, and they partied with some listeners. Of course, they also recorded a new episode of Marvelicious Toys!Gathered in person, our hosts looked at the Square Enix Variant Play Arts Kai figures. Standing about 10-inches tall, they reviewed Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Black Widow, Iron Man, and Venom! But there’s a twist…! After recording the hosts found out half the figures were Chinese bootlegs! So after the con the team reconvened to compare these fakers with the real deal, and tell YOU how to spot the difference! It’s all in this mega-episode of Marvelicious Toys!This episode of Marvelicious Toys is a full video episode–but those will be the exception going forward. To bring back the full video shows we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 29, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit!

Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit! — Video Podcast

Last weekend at Chicago’s C2E2 convention was a rare gathering of Arnie, Marjorie, Justin, and other Marvelicious Team Members. Together they shopped, they chatted, and they partied with some listeners. Of course, they also recorded a new episode of Marvelicious Toys!Gathered in person, our hosts looked at the Square Enix Variant Play Arts Kai figures. Standing about 10-inches tall, they reviewed Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Black Widow, Iron Man, and Venom! But there’s a twist…! After recording the hosts found out half the figures were Chinese bootlegs! So after the con the team reconvened to compare these fakers with the real deal, and tell YOU how to spot the difference! It’s all in this mega-episode of Marvelicious Toys!This episode of Marvelicious Toys is a full video episode–but those will be the exception going forward. To bring back the full video shows we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean

Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/fvghmm/MT162.mp3v

      

March 29, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit! — Video Podcast

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

It took fifteen years of development, but now the World’s Finest heroes are together on screen with Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Can the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel share the screen? The box office was big but the audience divided. Now join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob for this review to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/batman-v-superman-dawn-of-justice

      

March 29, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

Watchmen

Watchmen was an acclaimed ’80s comic series. It helped legitimize comics as a literary medium, and remained a bestseller for over 20 years. Yet with its complex, nonlinear narrative, all attempts to adapt it to film had failed to launch. But in 2009 director Sack Snyder, fresh off his success on 300, used the same visual style to bring Watchmen to theaters. The result was not as highly-praised as the graphic novel, but is it worth a watch? Join Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart as they review the film version of Watchmen, including a comparison of all three different cuts released!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/watchmen

      

March 22, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Watchmen

Episode 472: Having a Blaster at C2E2 2016

This past weekend was C2E2 in Chicago. Marjorie, Arnie, and Daryl were there checking out the panels and all the booths at the con. Join them on this episode as they report on their hunts for items like Bandai Movie Realization figures, S.H. Figuarts Stormtroopers, Hasbro Black Series, and more! Plus they highlight some special Artist’s Alley finds.

Also on this episode, Jerry is back with another Vintage Viewpoint. He looks at the classic Stormtrooper Blaster toy, and reveals its surprising Batman tie!

Finally Andrew is back with two new Hot Toys — A New Hope Luke and Stormtrooper Luke Skywalker. Does he like these Lukes? Join him to find out in this new Star Wars Action News!

And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8h9qrm/SWAN472.mp3

      

March 21, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 472: Having a Blaster at C2E2 2016

Watchmen by Alan Moore

Watchmen. It was the only comic listed on Time Magazine’s List of the 100 Best Novels list. It also was in The Comic’s Journal’s list of the Top 100 Comics of the 20th Century. It has been revered by comic lovers and neophytes alike. Now Arnie and Jakob come together to review all 12 issues of this series, and also give a brief look at the recent Before Watchmen prequel series!



Then head to Now Playing Podcast to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on Zack Snyder’s film adaptation!
Source: Books and Nachos

March 21, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Watchmen by Alan Moore

Watchmen by Alan Moore

Watchmen. It was the only comic listed on Time Magazine’s List of the 100 Best Novels list. It also was in The Comic’s Journal’s list of the Top 100 Comics of the 20th Century. It has been revered by comic lovers and neophytes alike. Now Arnie and Jakob come together to review all 12 issues of this series, and also give a brief look at the recent Before Watchmen prequel series!

Then head to Now Playing Podcast to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on Zack Snyder’s film adaptation!

Arnie C: http://booksandnachos.com/Podcasts/BN123-Watchmen.mp3

      

March 21, 2016 Posted by | Books, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , | Comments Off on Watchmen by Alan Moore

Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

To build up to Captain America: Civil War Hasbro has released a new wave of Marvel Legends themed for that first Avenger. Agent 13, Mockingbird, Captain America, Taskmaster, and others gather to build the giant figure of Red Skull as Onslaught. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin review all eight figures in this wave and tell you which are worth the hunt!

Plus the Marvelicious Toys team is ready for March Marvel Madness! Every day from now through April 5, heroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe will be going head to head, and you decide who wins! Can Winter Soldier take Luke Cage in a fight? Is Star-Lord able to overcome Rocket Raccoon? Head to VenganzaMedia.com each day to cast your vote. You can even download your own bracket to make your predictions!

With C2E2 and more to come, it’s all in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!

And we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 15, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

To build up to Captain America: Civil War Hasbro has released a new wave of Marvel Legends themed for that first Avenger. Agent 13, Mockingbird, Captain America, Taskmaster, and others gather to build the giant figure of Red Skull as Onslaught. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin review all eight figures in this wave and tell you which are worth the hunt!

Plus the Marvelicious Toys team is ready for March Marvel Madness! Every day from now through April 5, heroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe will be going head to head, and you decide who wins! Can Winter Soldier take Luke Cage in a fight? Is Star-Lord able to overcome Rocket Raccoon? Head to VenganzaMedia.com each day to cast your vote. You can even download your own bracket to make your predictions!

With C2E2 and more to come, it’s all in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!

And we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.

Arnie C: https://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/ertcan/MT161.mp3

      

March 15, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

After the success of the X-Men superhero properties were in demand. But before hero teams like Justice League, Watchmen, and Avengers could assemble, there was The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen. Sean Connery’s Allan Quatermain leads a cadre of literary figures including Tom Sawyer, Dr. Jeckyll, The Invisible Man, and others. The film’s reception, though, was anything but extraordinary with rumors this production ended the careers of both Connery and director Stephen Norrington. Is the film deserved of that reputation? Join our League of Extraordinary Movie Critics to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-league-of-extraordinary-gentlemen-0

      

March 15, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen

Gen 13

Created by comic book superstars J Scott Campbell, Jim Lee, and Brandon Choi, Gen 13 was Wildstorm Comics’ risque Gen-X version of the X-Men. After only a few years in publication the series’ success led to Buena Vista creating this animated feature, starring voice actors Mark Hamill, John de Lancie, John de Lancie, and Flea. But before the movie could see release Wildstorm was bought by DC Comics, and Buena Vista parent company Disney forever shelved this action cartoon. Is this a gem that deserves its day, or a mercy killing a’la Corman’s Fantasic Four? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob for this review to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/gen-13

      

March 8, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Gen 13

Episode 471: Hot Toys — Assemble the Troops!

While most of us spent Force Friday, 2015 standing outside our local toy stores, Hot Toys collectors were making tough choices. Up for pre-order that day were the first wave of figures for The Force Awakens — and there were lots of them! More pre-orders followed, and now Hot Toys fans are rewarded by a legion of figures showing up on their doorsteps. In this episode Andrew assembles his ranks of Hot Toys First Order Stormtroopers. How different are they, and were they worth the price? Join him to find out!

Also on this week’s show, Marjorie and Arnie review Wave 3 of the Star Wars Black Series 6-inch figures, with a First Order TIE Fighter Pilot and a Resistance Trooper. Plus they also run down all the news regarding The Force Awakens Blu-Ray releases!

All this and a report from Wizard World Cleveland in this latest episode of Star Wars Action News!

And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/m4yjia/SWAN471.mp3

      

March 7, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 471: Hot Toys — Assemble the Troops!

Issue 160: Feelin' Grooty

The list has leaked! Circulating the internet has been a rumor list of all the Marvel Legends figures Hasbro has planned for 2016, including Venom: Space Knight, Eel, and more! Join us as we run down the list of all the possible figures in your future!



Also on this show, Factory Entertainment proved themselves the company to watch at Toy Fair this year. With their Captain America and Deadpool motion statues, Daredevil and Spider-Man walking sticks, and Jim Lee monolith, they were taking statue collecting in exciting new areas.



Now, to follow up on the Toy Fair report, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at Factory Entertainment’s Dancing Groot Premium Motion Statue. A full-scale replica, with a bit of motion in his pot, join the Marvelicious hosts to find out how Groot influences their future orders!



And finally, this weekend was Wizard World Cleveland, where the mighty Chris Hemsworth came to sign autographs, pose for photos, and answer fan questions. Marjorie and Arnie were on hand for the event. They run down the shopping, the celebrities, and more!



All this plus a power-ful Captain America shield and a Marvel Collector Corps unboxing in this jam-packed issue of Marvelicious Toys!



Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 1, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 160: Feelin' Grooty

Issue 160: Feelin’ Grooty

The list has leaked! Circulating the internet has been a rumor list of all the Marvel Legends figures Hasbro has planned for 2016, including Venom: Space Knight, Eel, and more! Join us as we run down the list of all the possible figures in your future!

Also on this show, Factory Entertainment proved themselves the company to watch at Toy Fair this year. With their Captain America and Deadpool motion statues, Daredevil and Spider-Man walking sticks, and Jim Lee monolith, they were taking statue collecting in exciting new areas.

Now, to follow up on the Toy Fair report, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at Factory Entertainment’s Dancing Groot Premium Motion Statue. A full-scale replica, with a bit of motion in his pot, join the Marvelicious hosts to find out how Groot influences their future orders!

And finally, this weekend was Wizard World Cincinatti, where the mighty Chris Hemsworth came to sign autographs, pose for photos, and answer fan questions. Marjorie and Arnie were on hand for the event. They run down the shopping, the celebrities, and more!

All this plus a power-ful Captain America shield and a Marvel Collector Corps unboxing in this jam-packed issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.

Arnie C: http://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/5ipjze/MT160.mp3

      

March 1, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 160: Feelin’ Grooty

Justice League of America

DC has had over 15 years of television dominance. From Smallville to Arrow, The Flash, and Supergirl, the heroes of DC Comics have come to life on the small screen. But not every attempt to bring the comics to life succeeded. Birds of Prey was cancelled early, and David E. Kelley’s Wonder Woman pilot was never aired at all. Neither was Justice League of America – a 1997 TV movie intended as a pilot for a CBS series. With The Flash, Green Lantern, The Atom, Martian Manhunter, Fire, and Ice sharing the screen, is this a lost gem? Join Now Playing’s Super Friends Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/justice-league-of-america

      

March 1, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Justice League of America

Soundtracks on Vinyl: You’re Next

One of the draws to collect vinyl releases of movie scores and soundtracks is the large artwork for the film that accompanies it. These entries will review the vinyl record release of a film score/soundtrack from the music to the artwork, as well as the film…

The Movie

You’re Next tells the story of a well-to-do family getting together in their home in the woods for a reunion. However, none of them seem very excited to see each other. Their ambivalence soon turns to terror and fear as a gang dawning animals masks invades the home and starts killing off members of the family. But the intruders meet resistance when one guest displays a special set of skills for fighting back.

I’m not one for slashers, but the striking posters for the film caught my attention. Each poster featured the close up of one of the intruders in a plastic animal mask (the lamb mask always stuck out to me) with You’re Next written out as painted in blood. Even the title had a simplicity that immediately expressed the mood of the film (it’s appeal similar to the title of Simon Pegg’s fake Grindhouse trailer for Don’t).

Image inside gatefold sleeve.

Read more »

February 26, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Music, Now Playing Podcast | , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Soundtracks on Vinyl: You’re Next

Legends of the Superheroes

In 1976 Wonder Woman spun into America’s homes on CBS. In 1978 Superman took flight in theaters. So to capitalize on this success Hanna-Barbera brought a live-action Superfriends to TV with Legends of the Superheroes! This TV special was split into two episodes, one an adventure and the other a “roast” of the heroes. But with Adam West and Burt Ward returning to the roles of Batman and Robin, is Legends of the Superheroes a worthy successor to Batman‘s camp fun? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob with this review to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/legends-of-the-superheroes

      

February 23, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Legends of the Superheroes

Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

With Hasbro, Hot Toys, Comicave Studios, Ban Dai, Tamashii Nations, and others, Marvel action figure collectors have a wide selection of lines. But the choice is about to get more difficult as Mezco joins the scene! Their One:12 Collective line of figures are 6.5-inch scale, well articulated, highly detailed, and clothed in amazing soft goods. Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they tell you why this is their most exciting new reveal at Toy Fair 2016! And watch an exclusive interview with One:12 Project Manager Pierre Kalenzaga!

Also in this show is even more Toy Fair International coverage. Kotobukiya gives us an exclusive reveal on their new Spider-Man Art-FX+ line. Diamond Select Toys shows off new Marvel Select figures, Minimates, statues, and their new PVC line. Uncle Milton unlocks the secrets of the universe, and Monogram International has a heavy reveal.

Get all this information and more in this giant-sized bonus issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 21, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

With Hasbro, Hot Toys, Comicave Studios, Ban Dai, Tamashii Nations, and others, Marvel action figure collectors have a wide selection of lines. But the choice is about to get more difficult as Mezco joins the scene! Their One:12 Collective line of figures are 6.5-inch scale, well articulated, highly detailed, and clothed in amazing soft goods. Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they tell you why this is their most exciting new reveal at Toy Fair 2016! And watch an exclusive interview with One:12 Project Manager Pierre Kalenzaga!

Also in this show is even more Toy Fair International coverage. Kotobukiya gives us an exclusive reveal on their new Spider-Man Art-FX+ line. Diamond Select Toys shows off new Marvel Select figures, Minimates, statues, and their new PVC line. Uncle Milton unlocks the secrets of the universe, and Monogram International has a heavy reveal.

Get all this information and more in this giant-sized bonus issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.

Arnie C: http://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/vysaz9/MT159.mp3

      

February 21, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

Episode 470: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko and More from Javitz

Toy Fair International is over, and Star Wars Action News is here to wrap-up all the news collectors care about!

In this episode Marjorie and Arnie recap their Javitz booth visits. They spoke with Dan from Kotobukiya about their upcoming Art-FX+ statues and housewares goods. Funko reveals new POPs, and hints at upcoming Hikari Sofubi characters. Revell shows off new models and teases their Rogue One offerings. Plus several others!

And also this show you can hear Hasbro’s Star Wars Brand Presentation. Our previous episode ran down the reveals, but now you can hear the full presentation straight from Hasbro’s team!

And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/63q3jp/SWAN470.mp3

      

February 19, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 470: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 – Kotobukiya, Funko and More from Javitz

Deadpool

This show description is guest written by Deadpool.

Oh, hello there! Deadpool here. It took ten years but I’ve finally got my own solo film! Now, I know I’m awesome, but even I’m shocked at how many box office records it broke. I have to give a lot of credit to the marketing, but the movie stars me, so it has to be awesome. The real question, though, is what Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob think. So whatever you’re doing — STOP! You need to just put your life on hold for the next 100 minutes and listen to this show to hear the guys review of my first movie!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/deadpool

      

February 16, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Deadpool

Episode 469: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 – LEGO, Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and more!

Marjorie and Arnie are in New York City to bring you the latest news from Toy Fair International 2016! And if that’s not enough — they’re also giving away a Sideshow Collectibles 12-inch Boba Fett figure!

In this first part of their coverage, join them as they discuss all the latest reveals from Hasbro’s Toy Fair presentation. Hasbro displayed two new Sabine figures from Rebels, A New Hope Luke and Leia in the 6-inch Series, and more 6-inch Black Series figures. Plus they revealed news about their upcoming summer convention exclusives, for both Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! Join in to catch up on the news!

Also in this first episode the hosts run down all the new sets revealed by LEGO, and they are Hoth! Hoth! Hoth! Arnie saw the new Ultimate Collector Set Hoth diorama first hand. Listen in to find out if it’s the best new set on display, or if the new X-Wing, Carbon Freezing Chamber, or other sets stole the show!

With a thumbs-up BB-8 from Jakks Pacific and more, it’s all in this first Toy Fair 2016 episode of Star Wars Action News!

And also check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better, and need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN469.mp3

      

February 13, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 469: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 – LEGO, Hasbro, Jakks Pacific, and more!

Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Hasbro has done the stuff of LEGENDS at the 2016 Toy Fair International in New York City! They have announced 4 different toy lines, all with the name of “Legends” — 3.75-inch scale, 6-inch scale, 12-inch scale, and life-sized prop replicas! Confusing? Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they sort it all out and discuss the best new toys coming later this year!

Also on this show, LEGO has a bridge to sell you — and it has a taxi hanging off of it! The hosts go through the cool new Civil War, Ultimate Spider-Man, and Avengers LEGO sets on display at Toy Fair.

With a look at new offerings from Comicave Studios, new Re:Edit figures, and more — it’s all in this LEGENDS issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 13, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Hasbro has done the stuff of LEGENDS at the 2016 Toy Fair International in New York City! They have announced 4 different toy lines, all with the name of “Legends” — 3.75-inch scale, 6-inch scale, 12-inch scale, and life-sized prop replicas! Confusing? Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they sort it all out and discuss the best new toys coming later this year!

Also on this show, LEGO has a bridge to sell you — and it has a taxi hanging off of it! The hosts go through the cool new Civil War, Ultimate Spider-Man, and Avengers LEGO sets on display at Toy Fair.

With a look at new offerings from Comicave Studios, new Re:Edit figures, and more — it’s all in this LEGENDS issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Arnie C: http://marvelicious.podbean.com/mf/play/egizq6/MT158.mp3

      

February 13, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Stardust

Neil Gaiman’s Stardust began in 1997 as a DC comic book fairy tale. In 1999 it was then published as an illustrated novel. Finally in 2007 it was adapted to the screen, directed by Matthew Vaughn. This story about a fallen star had its own star power with Claire Danes, Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, and Peter O’Toole. Is this yet another Vaughn comic adaptation worth checking out, or should it be burned ashes to ashes, Stardust to Stardust? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out as they return to their DC Comics Retrospective Series!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/stardust

      

February 9, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Stardust

Episode 468: Turning Japanese

Toy Fair International is just 5 days away! This weekend Hasbro, LEGO, Kotobukiya, and so many more companies will reveal their 2016 Star Wars line-up. But will there be much to show? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie prepare for the coverage and tell you what has already leaked out!

And one of the big reveals at Toy Fair last year was the Tamshii Nations Movie Realization Star Wars line featuring Darth Vader and Stormtroopers as Japanese samurai. On this show we review the newest release in that line — the Ronin Boba Fett!

With a look at new ceramic Star Wars dinnerware, a new Hot Toys figure aimed right at gamers, and much more, it’s all in this new Star Wars Action News!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN468.mp3

      

February 7, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 468: Turning Japanese

Issue 157: I Aint 'Fraid of No Hulk!

Marvel Legends show no sign of slowing down! The new Absorbing Man wave of figures is on pegs across the country, and the Onslaught wave is close behind! But before the Marvelicious Toys hosts can get to these new ones, they have some old business to attend to–the Hulkbuster wave! Join them on this Marvelicious Toys as they look at the final wave of 2015 with Iron Man, War Machine, Thundra, Blizzard, and more!

But that’s not the only Mark featured this show. Just shipping now is the new Play Imaginative Die Cast Iron Man Mk 38 — the IGOR Armor! Produced by Comicave Studios, is this 8.5-inch beast worth adding to your heavy metal house party? Find out in this show!

With an update on the Art of Daredevil and Jessica Jones books, clearance sales across the country, a Deadpool Hot Toys and more, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 2, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 157: I Aint 'Fraid of No Hulk!

Issue 157: I Aint ‘Fraid of No Hulk!

Marvel Legends show no sign of slowing down! The new Absorbing Man wave of figures is on pegs across the country, and the Onslaught wave is close behind! But before the Marvelicious Toys hosts can get to these new ones, they have some old business to attend to–the Hulkbuster wave! Join them on this Marvelicious Toys as they look at the final wave of 2015 with Iron Man, War Machine, Thundra, Blizzard, and more!

But that’s not the only Mark featured this show. Just shipping now is the new Play Imaginative Die Cast Iron Man Mk 38 — the IGOR Armor! Produced by Comicave Studios, is this 8.5-inch beast worth adding to your heavy metal house party? Find out in this show!

With an update on the Art of Daredevil and Jessica Jones books, clearance sales across the country, a Deadpool Hot Toys and more, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys!

Arnie C: http://marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT157.mp3

      

February 2, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 157: I Aint ‘Fraid of No Hulk!

Princess Mononoke

Studio Ghibli and director Hayao Miyazaki are highly regarded among anime fans. But none of their previous successes compared to 1997’s mythological Princess Mononoke. The film became Japan’s top-grossing film of all time. Disney’s Miramax Films even commissioned an English translation written by Neil Gaiman, voiced by stars including Claire Danes, Billy Crudup, and Billy Bod Thornton. Now join the Now Playing hosts as they travel into the forest for their first anime movie review!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/princess-mononoke

      

February 2, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Princess Mononoke

Django Unchained – A Podcast Skit and Preview

To ’90s fans of Quentin Tarantino’s slick, cool crime films, the idea of him making a western might have sounded ludicrous. But when Tarantino finally delivered Django Unchained in 2012 it was a critical and commercial hit. Django became Tarantino’s highest grossing film ever, and earned a second Oscar for actor Christoph Waltz. Is this film really Tarantino’s best, or was it overrated? If you make a donation to Now Playing by jan 31, 2016, you can join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob and find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/django-unchained-a-podcast-skit-and-preview

      

January 29, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Django Unchained – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Masters of the Universe

Masters of the Universe was a beloved toy line and a hit ’80s cartoon. Its 1987 live-action movie, however, is not so fondly remembered. This Dolph Lundgren vehicle broke its movie studio but created new figures for kids to play with. Does this film have the power? Listen to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/masters-of-the-universe

      

January 27, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Masters of the Universe

Episode 467: In Space…No One Can Hear You Troop

Star Wars Action News is back with its first regular show of 2016, and it’s a Hot one! Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Hot Toys addict Andrew to review two of that company’s Movie Masterpiece Series Star Wars figures. First, the three look at the Star Wars Celebration Anaheim exclusive Spacetrooper figure. It’s still available on their site — should you order it?

Then Andrew talks about his biggest Hot Toys purchase, the quarter scale Boba Fett. This 18-inch Mandalorian carries a hefty bounty. Listen to find out if he’s worth a lot to Andrew!

With Brock reviewing Alan Dean Foster’s The Force Awakens novelization, a run-down on new figures hitting stores, and a cuddly Valentine’s Day bouquet, it’s all in this brand new episode of Star Wars Action News!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN467.mp3

      

January 24, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 467: In Space…No One Can Hear You Troop

Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 2

Was 2015 the best year ever for Marvel Hot Toys? From the Age of Ultron line to throw-backs to all three Iron Man films, it was a good (if expensive) time to be a collector!



On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie are again joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. They talk about the Hot Toys, Funko POPs, Sideshow Statues, and more that made up all the non-figure collecting of the year!

Then they look forward to 2016 and the hot films and collectibles coming. So watch right now this gala issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 19, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 2

Hobo with a Shotgun

It started with a contest, a fan-submitted new “fake” trailer for Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez’s Grindhouse double feature. It ended up, like Machete, being made into a full movie! The title sums up the film, but with Rutger Hauer cast as the titular Hobo can this be more than midnight-movie fare? Join Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/hobo-with-a-shotgun

      

January 19, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Hobo with a Shotgun

The Hateful Eight – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Quentin Tarantino returned to the wild west for his 8th film — The Hateful Eight. Yet this new movie’s focus on a group of untrusting, violent men trapped in a cabin makes it also a return to the director’s style from Reservoir Dogs. Starring Samuel L. Jackson and Kurt Russel as two bounty hunters stranded in Wyoming, is Hateful Eight as good as both those earlier films…or it it worthy of your hate? If you make a donation of $25 or more to Now Playing before Jan 31, 2016, you can join Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-hateful-eight-a-podcast-skit-and-preview

      

January 15, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Hateful Eight – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Machete Kills

The original film promised Danny Trejo would return as Machete, and that promise was kept! Machete Kills, released in 2010, boasts an even bigger line-up of stars than the original. Mel Gibson, Cuba Gooding Jr, Lady Gaga, Amber Heard, Charlie Sheen, and many more notable actors lined up to be featured in Robert Rodriguez’s over-the-top film. But did Machete kill our hosts with its jokes? And are they anxious for Machete Kills in Space? Listen to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/machete-kills

      

January 12, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Machete Kills

Episode 466: 2015 Star Wars Collectors’ Year in Review

For Star Wars collectors 2015 started in a famine and ended in a feast — with plenty of highs and lows along the way! We look back at the Star Wars Celebration: Anaheim reveals, the convention exclusives, and all the action figures, mini-busts, import figures, and high-end collectibles. Plus the bottled water, the oranges, the cereals, and all the other tie-ins!

So listen now as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by other Star Wars Action News team members and friends and look back on the year that was…and the next year to come!

Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN466.mp3

      

January 10, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 466: 2015 Star Wars Collectors’ Year in Review

Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

2015 was a great year for collectors! Dozens of new Marvel Legends figures arrived on store pegs. Long-promised 3.75-inch scale Marvel Infinite Series figures finally joined your collection. Plus movie figures tying into Age of Ultron and Ant-Man.

Now it’s time for Marvelicious Toys’ annual Toys of Future Past show! This year Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. Join them as they look back at one Legend-ary year!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 5, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

2015 was a great year for collectors! Dozens of new Marvel Legends figures arrived on store pegs. Long-promised 3.75-inch scale Marvel Infinite Series figures finally joined your collection. Plus movie figures tying into Age of Ultron and Ant-Man.

Now it’s time for Marvelicious Toys’ annual Toys of Future Past show! This year Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. Join them as they look back at one Legend-ary year!

Arnie C: http://marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT156.mp3

      

January 5, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

2015 was a great year for collectors! Dozens of new Marvel Legends figures arrived on store pegs. Long-promised 3.75-inch scale Marvel Infinite Series figures finally joined your collection. Plus movie figures tying into Age of Ultron and Ant-Man.

Now it’s time for Marvelicious Toys’ annual Toys of Future Past show! This year Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. Join them as they look back at one Legend-ary year!

Arnie C: http://marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT155.mp3

      

January 5, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

Machete

He knows the score. He gets the babes. He kills the bad guys. He is Machete! The character was originally seen in a joke trailer in the Rodriguez/Tarantino Grindhouse double feature. Then in 2010 that joke became a major motion picture. Did the film live up to the trailer’s promise? Listen to this episode of Now Playing to find out!

Arnie C: http://podcast.nowplayingpodcast.com/e/machete/

      

January 5, 2016 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Machete

What’s on tap for Now Playing Podcast in 2016

Looking ahead to what will be the ninth year of Now Playing Podcast, I don’t know how you top 2015. In terms of franchises — Fast & Furious, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Mad Max, Star Wars — I’m not sure you can get any bigger. But, thanks to Hollywood, there’s never been a better time to be a franchise-focused podcast, and so the show will go on!

So, listeners will hear more Marvel, DC, and Star Wars in 2016, for sure. There are even Star Trek and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles sequels to look forward to. But the Now Playing Podcast calendar is constantly in motion, so here’s a peak at what you’ll definitely hear in the coming months.

January: The Grindhouse Universe

Screen Shot 2015-12-31 at 3.07.53 PM

Machete don’t podcast. But Now Playing does!

After taking listeners inside 2007’s Grindhouse experience, Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob will get even bloodier with two characters spawned from the film’s faux trailers: Machete and Hobo With a Shotgun. The former stars the great Danny Trejo, who finally got to headline his own film in 2010, and returned for a sequel, Machete Kills.

While not a runaway success, the first Machete was well received and, as this article correctly points out, was “tailor-made for the current political climate.” The sequel, released three years later, was not as well received, and that’s about all I’ll say about it. Oh, it had Mel Gibson as a villain.

The idea for Hobo With a Shotgun came from another Grindhouse trailer, but one you would have only seen if you saw the film in Canada. The feature length Hobo stars Rutget Hauer, who you might remember from 1992’s Buffy the Vampire Slayer, or possibly some other films.

January-February: Listener Requests

Our heroes, ladies and gentleman.

Our heroes, ladies and gentlemen.

Things will get really interesting in late January. That’s when we’ll hear reviews of listener requests made during 2015’s Kickstarter campaign to fund the show’s first book, “Underrated Movies We Recommend.” Listeners who supported the book at a certain level had the option to choose a film for the hosts to review, and the first one to be covered is 1987’s Masters of the Universe. It’s been almost 30 years and they still haven’t gotten a new He-Man movie made, so this is all we’ve got to hang onto folks. Just Dolph Lundgren and Courtney Cox and the lady who played Bruce Willis’ cheating wife in The Last Boy Scout as Teela. It’s a treasured memory, to some people.

If you’re looking to do some extra research before the Now Playing review, I recommend checking out Electric Boogaloo: the Wild Untold Story of Cannon Films. Cannon is the company that made the film, and Electric Boogaloo is a great behind-the-scenes documentary for film industry buffs. It’s on Netflix now, as is Masters of the Universe, coincidentally.

On the heels of He-Man, Now Playing will take up another listener request, a review of 1997’s Japanese anime epic Princess Mononoke.

February: Pool, Dead.

It's the part I was born to play baby!

It’s the part I was born to play baby!

The first Marvel character to make it to the screen in 2016 is not part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and if he were it’s unlikely Disney would allow him to exist in a hard R film. Ryan Reynolds takes his fourth turn in a superhero flick with the part he was born to play — and played a version of in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, but the less said about that one the better.

February-March: DC Heroes Return

This happened.

This happened.

The first really big retrospective of 2016 will feature a cadre of characters that aren’t connected in the same cinematic universe, but they’re all part of Now Playing’s ongoing DC Comics series. Listeners can look forward to hearing the hosts talk Stardust, American Splendor, and the animated Gen 13; as well as the 2003 adaptation of The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and the highly requested review of Zack Snyder’s Watchmen, which leads into the release of his Man of Steel follow up, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.

Also featured in this retrospective is a real treat for DC Comics fans, a review of 1979’s live-action Legends of the Superheroes TV specials. Decades before the CW made quality DC shows (and I’m hoping for more of the same from Legends of Tomorrow), NBC took Adam West and Burt Ward – more than a decade removed from Batman – and gave them headlining gigs in shows that also featured appearances by Green Lantern, Sinestro, Solomon Grundy, The Huntress, The Flash, Hawkman, and somebody named Ghetto Man, according to Wikipedia. Alas, two of DC’s biggest superheroes were missing from the lineup, because they were busy starring in blockbuster films and on CBS.

If you don’t know what Legends of the Superheroes is, just watch the intro on YouTube. The whole concept has a Star Wars Holiday Special feel about it, and I can’t wait to hear how this thing came about.

So that covers the first few months of Now Playing Podcast in 2016, and that’s just on the air. I can’t forget to mention that behind the scenes the hosts are furiously finishing their work on “Underrated Movies We Recommend.” It’s set to ship in the second quarter, and you can pre-order it now at the Now Playing Podcast website.

Maybe 2016 will be Now Playing’s biggest year after all.

 

December 31, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on What’s on tap for Now Playing Podcast in 2016

Star Wars Holiday Special

“If I had the time and a sledgehammer, I would track down every copy of that show and smash it.” So said Star Wars creator George Lucas regarding the 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special. The two hour CBS special reunited Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, alongside most of the original Star Wars cast. It also gave fans their first glimpse at the bounty hunter Boba Fett! So how can it be so hated, shunned, and disavowed? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/star-wars-holiday-special

      

December 29, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Star Wars Holiday Special

The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special

It’s Christmastime at Marvelicious Toys! Now Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are inviting you to spend the holidays with them in The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special!

Learn Justin’s secret hot cocoa recipe! Marjorie will teach you how to make a star spangled tree topper! And Deadpool brings his own brand of holiday cheer with gifts and a special Christmas story!

With bonus reviews and unboxings, it’s a special stuffed fuller than your stocking!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

December 23, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special

The Force Awakens

Lucas promised it would never happen. He repeatedly swore that Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith was the last Star Wars film. Ever!

What a difference $4 billion makes!
Now, a decade since the last live action Star Wars film, Disney brings us The Force Awakens. The baton is being passed from the old trilogy’s heroes to a new group, played by Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, and Oscar Isaac. But with the shadow of the prequels hanging over the series, does director J. J. Abrams’ new film fall to the dark side, or the light? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob in this episode of Now Playing to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-force-awakens

      

December 22, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Force Awakens

Episode 465: The Fans Awaken

SPOILER WARNING: This podcast has an in-depth discussion of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The toys, the movie, the books, are all fair game.

Nothing shakes up Star Wars collecting more than a new property. Every movie and TV series brings new figure lines, vehicles, and more. In the case of The Force Awakens we even got water and produce!

Fans have been collecting Force Awakens figures on blind faith ever since Force Friday in early September. For over three months we’ve speculated — why doesn’t the Finn figure come with a lightsaber? Who is Constable Zuvvio?

But now the film has awoken fans across the globe!

And on this episode of Star Wars Action News, the first part of our 2015 year-in-review coverage, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by many friends to discuss the new film Join them to find out how the movie impacted them…and their collections!

Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN465.mp3

      

December 21, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 465: The Fans Awaken

The Clone Wars

In 2005 Revenge of the Sith was touted as the last Star Wars film. Ever. So fans were surprised and amazed in 2008 when the announcement came that Star Wars: The Clone Wars would be an animated, feature film. Originally developed as four episodes of the Clone Wars series, the footage was spliced together to feature length. With Samuel L. Jackson and Christopher Lee reprising their live-action characters, does this glorified TV pilot deserve its place as the final Lucas-era Star Wars movie? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-clone-wars

      

December 15, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Clone Wars

Episode 464: Rey Bans

There’s been an awakening…have you felt it? As The Force Awakens hits theaters, Star Wars Action News reporter Justin awakened the Disney empire with his Walmart store find — a new 3.75-inch Rey figure!

It was the figure find heard across the world! Some claimed the figure was a spoiler, others started their own hunts, and Disney and Lucasfilm started sending takedown notices. What’s all the hullabaloo about? And was the figure worth the trouble it caused? Justin joins Arnie and Marjorie on this show to tell the tale!

Also on this week’s show, Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin report on the latest store finds and online exclusives. With figure multi-pack exclusives at Toys R Us and Kohls, and a Disney exclusive Boba Fett that’s commanding a huge bounty, join the hosts for all the news.

With an in depth look at the new Star Wars Topps Trading Cards book and more, The Force Awakens on Star Wars Action News!

We want your pictures! Share your Force Awakens theater photos on the Star Wars Action News Facebook page!

Then come to our forums to talk about The Force Awakens. We have threads for both the spoiler-filled and spoiler-free conversations!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN464.mp3

      

December 14, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 464: Rey Bans

Kill Bill: Volume 1 – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Tarantino had dropped off the radar for six years after Jackie Brown, but in 2003 he returned to Kill Bill. This violent kung fu film was too big to be contained in one movie, so it was cut down the middle. It stars Uma Thurman as “The Bride,” a woman out for revenge on those who almost killed her. With her yellow outfit and her sword, did The Bride spear the hearts of our reviewers? If you support Now Playing you will get this bonus “thank you” gift. Then you can join Jakob, Arnie, and Stuart to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/kill-bill-volume-1-a-podcast-skit-and-preview

      

December 11, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Kill Bill: Volume 1 – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Marvelicious Toys awarded Play Imaginative’s one-twelfth line “Best in Show” at San Diego Comic-Con. No other company had as fresh a display, as attractive a price-point, and as high quality an item. The only problem is…that was San Diego Comic-Con in 2013.

In the years since Play Imaginative has put out figures in the one-quarter and one-sixth scale, but their six-inch figures faced one delay after another.

But finally the figures have shipped! Iron Man Mark 42, War Machine Mk 2, Iron Man Mark 40 (Shotgun Amor) and Iron Patriot — all have started shipping worldwide. And Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie have them in hand! Were they worth the wait? And are there quality issues with the figures? Watch this episode to find out!

With a rundown of some great bargains (and even better Toys For Tots donations), a new Hot Toys Iron Man, and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

December 8, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Marvelicious Toys awarded Play Imaginative’s one-twelfth line “Best in Show” at San Diego Comic-Con. No other company had as fresh a display, as attractive a price-point, and as high quality an item. The only problem is…that was San Diego Comic-Con in 2013.

In the years since Play Imaginative has put out figures in the one-quarter and one-sixth scale, but their six-inch figures faced one delay after another.

But finally the figures have shipped! Iron Man Mark 42, War Machine Mk 2, Iron Man Mark 40 (Shotgun Amor) and Iron Patriot — all have started shipping worldwide. And Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie have them in hand! Were they worth the wait? And are there quality issues with the figures? Watch this episode to find out!

With a rundown of some great bargains (and even better Toys For Tots donations), a new Hot Toys Iron Man, and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Arnie C: http://marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT154.mp3

      

December 8, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Creed

Apollo Creed was a major part of the Rocky series through the character’s death in Rocky IV. Now his son Adonis takes center stage in Creed — the seventh movie to feature Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa. Can Michael B. Jordan’s Adonis be the new box office boxing champ? Listen to this episode of Now Playing Podcast to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/creed

      

December 8, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Creed

Jackie Brown – A Podcast Skit and Preview

From the mind of bestselling crime author Elmore Leonard, and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, comes Jackie Brown. This tale of deceit among gunrunners features 70s star Pam Grier, as well as Robert De Niro, Bridget Fonda, Robert Forester, and Tarantino staple Samuel L. Jackson. Coming immediately after Pulp Fiction Tarantino chose make his first film adaptation. How does it compare to his original works? Donate to Now Playing to hear this review and find out!

This podcast is not available for general download. This episode of the Now Playing Quentin Tarantino Movie Review Retrospective Series is made as a special “Thank you” for those Now Playing Supporters who donate $25 or more between September 1, 2015 and January 31, 2016.

It is donations from listeners like you that keep Now Playing operating.

You can listen to our promotional preview of this show now, then donate to Now Playingand hear the entire series of movie reviews!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/jackie-brown-a-podcast-skit-and-previewq

      

December 4, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Jackie Brown – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Revenge of the Sith

George Lucas wrapped up his six-part Star Wars saga with Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith. This film needed to create the links between Lucas’ two prequel films and his much-beloved original trilogy. Showing the rise of the Empire, the fall of Anakin Skywalker, and the downfall of the Jedi Order is an ambitious feat for any film. Did Sith rise to the challenge? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob for their review to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/revenge-of-the-sith

      

December 1, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Revenge of the Sith

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 – A Podcast Preview

The rebellion against President Snow and the Capital has reached its zenith. Under the leadership of President Coin, and inspired by The Mockingjay Katniss Everdeen, the districts have joined forces and are fighting for their own freedom. But all is not what it seems, and it’s time for The Girl on Fire to face one final Hunger Games. Is this final installment in The Hunger Games film series a worthy conclusion? If you make a $10 or more donation to Now Playing before the end of our Fall, 2015 donation drive you can listen to this bonus movie review podcast and find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-hunger-games-mockingjay-part-2-a-podcast-preview

      

November 30, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 – A Podcast Preview

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Last week the fourth, and final, Hunger Games film Mockingjay Part 2, dominated theaters. Now that you’ve had a chance to see how the movie concludes the story of Katniss Everdeen you can join Stuart for his review of Collins original Mockingjay novel.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 26, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Last week the fourth, and final, Hunger Games film Mockingjay Part 2, dominated theaters. Now that you’ve had a chance to see how the movie concludes the story of Katniss Everdeen you can join Stuart for his review of Collins original Mockingjay novel.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/BN122-HungerGamesMockingjay.mp3

      

November 26, 2015 Posted by | Books, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , | Comments Off on Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Attack of the Clones

The Phantom Menace opened to a big box office…and a big backlash. But for 2002’s follow-up Attack of the Clones director George Lucas pulled out all the stops. Fans finally got to see in live action the origins of the Stormtroopers, Boba Fett, and an army of Jedi going to war. Did this universe-expanding story result in a better movie? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/nowplayingpodcast/NPPSW07.mp3

      

November 25, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Attack of the Clones

Episode 463: 2015 Holiday Gift & Black Friday Guide

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Star Wars Action News community!

While your uncle gets drunk and your sister yells about football we give you our 11th annual Holiday Gift Guide. What do you get for the Star Wars collector who has everything? Or what should those in your life buy for you? Marjorie and Arnie, along with guest host Andrew, have dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to life sized statues, the whole range is in this guide!

Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. Are there any Star Wars sales worth braving the crowds? Listen to find out!

And be sure you get, and give, a Star Wars themed gift this year! Our annual Sithmas gift exhange registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN463.mp3

      

November 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 463: 2015 Holiday Gift & Black Friday Guide

Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Marvelicious Toys community!

While your family rehashes bad memories and watches football we give you our 6th annual Sweet Christmas Holiday Gift Guide. Do you have a Marvel collector in your life and are stumped for a gift? Or do you want to give your loved ones ideas for gifts for you? Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin give dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to high end statues and figures, the whole range is in this guide!

Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. What bargains are worth braving stores for Marvel collectors? Listen to find out.

And be sure you get, and give, a Marvel themed gift this year! Our annual holiday gift X-Change registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.
Source: Marvelicious Toys

November 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Marvelicious Toys community!

While your family rehashes bad memories and watches football we give you our 6th annual Sweet Christmas Holiday Gift Guide. Do you have a Marvel collector in your life and are stumped for a gift? Or do you want to give your loved ones ideas for gifts for you? Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin give dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to high end statues and figures, the whole range is in this guide!

Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. What bargains are worth braving stores for Marvel collectors? Listen to find out.

And be sure you get, and give, a Marvel themed gift this year! Our annual holiday gift X-Change registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.

Arnie C: http://marvelicioustoys.com/Podcasts/MT153.mp3

      

November 24, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 — A Podcast Preview

​Last night The Hunger Games film series reached its conclusion as Mockingjay Part 2 was released in theaters. Prepare for that ultimate conclusion by joining Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie as they review Mockingjay Part 1 in this podcast. Did Suzanne Collins’ third book need to be split into two movies? And how does a Hunger Games movie work with no games? Donate to Now Playing, support the Podcasting rebellion, then you can join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!​

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-hunger-games-mockingjay-part-1-a-podcast-preview

      

November 20, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 — A Podcast Preview

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

In 2009 Catching Fire fanned the flames of Hunger Games fans worldwide. Continuing the adventures of Katniss Everdeen, Collins’ novel puts her back in the arena for another adventure. In preparation for tonight’s release of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 movie, join Stuart in L.A. for a look back at Collins’ middle novel in the trilogy.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 19, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

In 2009 Catching Fire fanned the flames of Hunger Games fans worldwide. Continuing the adventures of Katniss Everdeen, Collins’ novel puts her back in the arena for another adventure. In preparation for tonight’s release of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 movie, join Stuart in L.A. for a look back at Collins’ middle novel in the trilogy.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/BN121-HungerGamesCatchingFire.mp3

      

November 19, 2015 Posted by | Books, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , | Comments Off on Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

The Phantom Menace

Star Wars returned to the big screen in 1999 with Episode I: The Phantom Menace. Sixteen years after Return of the Jedi the hype and anticipation were at manic levels. The result was the highest grossing Star Wars film of all time–and lots of internet hate. Now Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart travel to Naboo, Tattooine, and Coruscant to review The Phantom Menace. Is the hate deserved, or could no film live up to such high fan expectations? Listen to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-phantom-menace

      

November 17, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Phantom Menace

Episode 462: Phasma-tastic

As The Force Awakens draws closer we get new information, new trailers, and…new toys! With the Guavian Enforcer, Captain Phasma, Constable Zuvio and Poe Dameron the second wave of 6-inch Black Series figures is hitting stores now. On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie review this new wave of figures–and try to guess how they fit into the new movie. And they also review the new KMart exclusive Kylo Ren – Starkiller Base Black Series figure.

Also on this week’s show, with tomorrow’s release of Battlefront the game, Brock joins us to look at the Star Wars: Battlefront novel Twilight Company. He also reviews the new audiobook adaptations for the young readers’ adaptations of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi.

With Berent’s report from Gentle Giant Days in Burbank, a rundown of new Star Wars merchandise hitting stores, and more, it’s all in this episode of Star Wars Action News!

Listen to this episode, then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com Nov 17 as they begin their review of the Star Wars prequels, leading up to their weekend of release review of The Force Awakens!

Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!

Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!

Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!

So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN462.mp3

      

November 15, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 462: Phasma-tastic

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The 2012 Hunger Games movie proved Katniss and her games could be as successful on screen as they were on the page. Color Force and Lionsgate wanted to ensure continued success with The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Released over a year later, the second film established Hunger Games as a November release staple. And with this sequel there’s a new director, new writers, and almost double the budget. Did more money mean a better film? Thanks to your donation to Now Playing you can join Stuart, Arnie, and Jakob to find out!

Note: This podcast is not available for general download. The Hunger Games Retrospective Series is made as a special “Thank you” for those Now Playing Supporters who donate $10 or more between September 1, 2015 and January 31, 2016.

Without listener support Now Playing cannot continue. Your donation allows us to make our weekly show. The Hunger Games podcasts are exclusive “thank you” gifts to our donors.

You can listen to our promotional preview of this show now, then donate to Now Playing and hear the entire series of movie reviews!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-hunger-games-catching-fire

      

November 13, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Hunger Games: Catching Fire

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games novels topped the New York Times best seller lists and went on to become Amazon’s all-time top selling book series (outselling even Harry Potter). It has since gone on to become a billion-dollar film franchise. In anticipation of the upcoming The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 Stuart in LA is here to review the original novels.

In this episode Stuart looks at the original The Hunger Games. Is this the next Twilight, or is it the next The Running Man? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review, then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 12, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games novels topped the New York Times best seller lists and went on to become Amazons all-time top selling book series (outselling even Harry Potter). It has since gone on to become a billion-dollar film franchise. In anticipation of the upcoming The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 Stuart in LA is here to review the original novels.

In this episode Stuart looks at the original The Hunger Games. Is this the next Twilight, or is it the next The Running Man? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review, then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/BN120-HungerGames.mp3

      

November 12, 2015 Posted by | Books, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , | Comments Off on The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

The holiday shopping season started November 1st, and that means a bevvy of new Marvel Legends figures on store pegs! Plus deep discounts on the new waves from Amazon, including the Rhino wave. On this week’s show Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at the eight new figures in this set: Scarlet Spider, Superior Venom, Ghost Rider, Kraven the Hunter, Chameleon, Misty Knight, White Tiger, and Rhino!

Plus a bonus Legends review of Pepper Potts’ armored identity Rescue. The figure was exclusive with a 2016 Marvel Unlimited subscription. How does the figure compare to the one teased at 2013’s SDCC? Listen to find out.



And from the biggest figures to the smallest, the Walgreens exclusive Diamond Select Toys’ Marvel Minimates are showing up. On this show get quick reviews of the four packs released thus far, including Venom, Hulk, Crossbones, Rocket Raccoon, and more! Then we run down the next four packs coming soon.



With news on Play Imaginative, the first Hot Toys figure with wrinkled hands, and more, it’s all in this gala 5th Anniversary issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

November 10, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

The holiday shopping season started November 1st, and that means a bevvy of new Marvel Legends figures on store pegs! Plus deep discounts on the new waves from Amazon, including the Rhino wave. On this week’s show Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at the eight new figures in this set: Scarlet Spider, Superior Venom, Ghost Rider, Kraven the Hunter, Chameleon, Misty Knight, White Tiger, and Rhino!

Plus a bonus Legends review of Pepper Potts’ armored identity Rescue. The figure was exclusive with a 2016 Marvel Unlimited subscription. How does the figure compare to the one teased at 2013’s SDCC? Listen to find out.

And from the biggest figures to the smallest, the Walgreens exclusive Diamond Select Toys’ Marvel Minimates are showing up. On this show get quick reviews of the four packs released thus far, including Venom, Hulk, Crossbones, Rocket Raccoon, and more! Then we run down the next four packs coming soon.

With news on Play Imaginative, the first Hot Toys figure with wrinkled hands, and more, it’s all in this gala 5th Anniversary issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/MT152.mp3

      

November 10, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

Spectre

Despite being a box office draw for 50 years, James Bond’s last outing Skyfall shattered all expectations, making over $1 billion worldwide. That set expectations exceedingly high for the next Bond adventure — Spectre. The movie brings back the classic cadre of Bond baddies, as well as the star and director of Skyfall. Did this film hit its target? Join Brock, Arnie, and Stuart to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/spectre

      

November 10, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Spectre

The Hunger Games – A Podcast Preview

The Hunger Games novels topped the New York Times best seller lists and went on to become Amazon’s all-time top selling book series (outselling even Harry Potter). Jennifer Lawrence was an acclaimed Oscar-nominated actress gaining mainstream attention after her role in X-Men: First Class. When those two came together, with Lawrence playing lead character Katniss in the Hunger Games movie series, the result was a worldwide phenomenon. The first three films alone grossed over $2 billion worldwide. Now the fourth and final Hunger Games film is set to be released, and leading up to Mockingjay Part 2 Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob are watching and reviewing all the Hunger Games movies. Did the original movie The Hunger Games do the book justice? And how is it not just a young adult series? Donate to Now Playing to help keep the podcast going into next year, and you can listen and find out!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/nowplayingpodcast/NPPHG01TEASE.mp3

      

November 6, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Hunger Games – A Podcast Preview

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

In 1999 Japanese author Koushun Takami gained global notice for his novel Battle Royale. In this ultraviolent, 600-plus page dystopian novel the Japanese government holds an annual competition where Junior High students must kill each other. The last student to survive is the “winner.” The book has been released multiple times in English, been the inspiration for the Battle Royale film series, and had a manga adaptation. And Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins has been accused of plagiarizing Battle Royale for her hit trilogy.

Is the novel worth the fuss? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review of the English translation of Battle Royale. Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 5, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

In 1999 Japanese author Koushun Takami gained global notice for his novel Battle Royale. In this ultraviolent, 600-plus page dystopian novel the Japanese government holds an annual competition where Junior High students must kill each other. The last student to survive is the “winner.” The book has been released multiple times in English, been the inspiration for the Battle Royale film series, and had a manga adaptation. And Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins has been accused of plagiarizing Battle Royale for her hit trilogy.

Is the novel worth the fuss? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review of the English translation of Battle Royale. Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/BN119-BattleRoyale.mp3

      

November 5, 2015 Posted by | Books, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , | Comments Off on Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

It Follows

It’s a long-standing horror movie trope: teens who have sex are murdered. Friday the 13th, Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, and dozens more films followed this pattern…but no film has made it as literal as It Follows. “It” is a supernatural creature that is passed through sex. When “It” is after you, your only escape is to pass it on by having sex with someone else.

Yet It Follows is not a morality tale; the director takes this concept to new and frightening places.

So should you watch It? Join Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/it-follows

      

November 3, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on It Follows

Episode 461: Star Wars the Flamethrower!

Only 50 days until The Force Awakens and Star Wars Action News hosts Marjorie and Arnie couldn’t be more excited. Tickets have been purchased, plans made, and the countdown is on.

But for collecting it may be easier to list the items that don’t have Star Wars tie-ins instead of those that do. Soup, bottled water, apples, coffee creamer, El Paso Tacos! On this week’s show the hosts sift through the plethora of items and tell you which are the cool ones to hunt for.

With new waves of Hasbro figures hitting shelves, Black Series exclusives from Walmart, Target, and K-Mart, and where you can find Wave 2 of the new Force Awakens figures, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!

Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!

Once again Star Wars Action News is championing Toys For Tots with their Adopt a Pegwarmer Day! On November 21, 2015 go out and buy a new figure or toy and put it in the Toys For Tots bin, helping move stale Star Wars stock and helping give a child a happy holiday this year!

Plus the first 100 people to send a photo of you donating a Star Wars figure to Toys For Tots to @swactionnews on Twitter will get a Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary patch!

So pick that pegwarmer today and make a child have a very happy holiday!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN461.mp3

      

November 1, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 461: Star Wars the Flamethrower!

From Dusk Till Dawn – A Podcast Skit & Preview

Quentin Tarantino is an obvious go-to for Mexican standoffs, but perhaps not so much for Mexican vampires! Yet that was the topic of one of the filmmaker’s early scripts that he revised and made with his pal Robert Rodriguez. Tarantino focused on his acting in his largest role to date, and Rodriguez handled the directing. With TV star George Clooney and Tarantino staple Harvey Keitel along for the ride, this crime-horror comedy found a cult following during its 1996 release. But do these vampires such? Make a Platinum donation and support Now Playing Podcast to get this “thank you” bonus review. Then you can listen and find out!

This podcast is not available for general download. This episode of the Now Playing Quentin Tarantino Movie Review Retrospective Series is made as a special “Thank you” for those Now Playing Supporters who donate $25 or more between September 1, 2015 and January 31, 2016.

It is donations from listeners like you that keep Now Playing operating.

You can listen to our promotional preview of this show now, then donate to Now Playing and hear the entire series of movie reviews!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/from-dusk-till-dawn-a-podcast-skit-preview

      

October 31, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on From Dusk Till Dawn – A Podcast Skit & Preview

Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

Magik was all around us at San Diego Comic-Con…as thousands of Marvel collectors picked up their Book of Vishanti set of Marvel Legends. Featuring five figures found nowhere else, this set comes with a translucent “astral projection” Dr. Strange, his long time enemy Dormammu, former Sorcerer Supereme Brother Voodoo, Hela the Norse goddess of the underworld, and Strange’s pupil Magik of the X-Men. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys the hosts conjure up a review of this set!




With a review of the Walgreens exclusive yellow-and-brown Daredevil Legends figure, new Art-FX+ statues from Kotobukiya, and a chance to win a Marvel mini-bust from Gentle Giant, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

October 27, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

Magik was all around us at San Diego Comic-Con…as thousands of Marvel collectors picked up their Book of Vishanti set of Marvel Legends. Featuring five figures found nowhere else, this set comes with a translucent “astral projection” Dr. Strange, his long time enemy Dormammu, former Sorcerer Supereme Brother Voodoo, Hela the Norse goddess of the underworld, and Strange’s pupil Magik of the X-Men. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys the hosts conjure up a review of this set!

With a review of the Walgreens exclusive yellow-and-brown Daredevil Legends figure, new Art-FX+ statues from Kotobukiya, and a chance to win a Marvel mini-bust from Gentle Giant, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/MT151.mp3

      

October 27, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2

Artisan Entertainment and Haxan Films wasted no time releasing a sequel to The Blair Witch Project. Intending to capitalize on the first film’s huge success they rushed Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2 for release while the original film was still part of the cultural zeitgeist. The sequel goes meta as we watch a group of fans of the original film take a pilgrimage to some of its filming sites when strange things begin to happen and some of the team go missing. Despite being directed by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Joe Berlinger Blair Witch 2 never escaped the original’s shadow and has been mostly forgotten. Does Book of Shadows conjure up scares to match the original? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/book-of-shadows-blair-witch-2

      

October 27, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2

Four Rooms – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Coming off Pulp Fiction Tarantino was a superstar, a media darling, and an Oscar winning writer. So when he and fellow indie directors Robert Rodriguez, Allison Anders, and Alexandre Rockwell decided to team up for an auteur anthology of four stories in the same hotel, Miramax agreed and the movie was released Christmas of 1995. But the release was small given the names behind it, and it quickly faded into the background. Is this a lost gem film fans should rediscover, or did our hosts quickly check out of the Hotel Mon Signor? Support Now Playing to keep our show going and you can listen and find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/four-rooms-a-podcast-skit-and-preview

      

October 23, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Four Rooms – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Four Rooms – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Coming off Pulp Fiction Tarantino was a superstar, a media darling, and an Oscar winning writer. So when he and fellow indie directors Robert Rodriguez, Allison Anders, and Alexandre Rockwell decided to team up for an auteur anthology of four stories in the same hotel, Miramax agreed and the movie was released Christmas of 1995. But the release was small given the names behind it, and it quickly faded into the background. Is this a lost gem film fans should rediscover, or did our hosts quickly check out of the Hotel Mon Signor? Support Now Playing to keep our show going and you can listen and find out!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/nowplayingpodcast/NPPQT05-FourRoomsTEASE.mp3

      

October 23, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Four Rooms – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Pulp Fiction – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Reservoir Dogs made Quentin Tarantino a press darling and an indie film star, but the question remained if he was a one hit wonder. That question would be answered in 1994 with his second film Pulp Fiction. The movie resurrected the career of John Travolta, while catapulting his co-stars to A-list status. It won Tarantino (and his co-writer) an Academy Award. To many, this is still considered his best film. But is it? Donate to support the show Now Playing does week after week, and get this bonus Thank You series to find out!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/nowplayingpodcast/NPPQT04-PulpFiction-TEASE.mp3

      

October 23, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Pulp Fiction – A Podcast Skit and Preview

The Blair Witch Project

In 1999 two great fears gripped the American people — Y2K and The Blair Witch Project. This little movie was made for only $20,000 but it became a Sundance darling. Released by Artisan it went on to become the most profitable movie of all time, shot its stars and makers to superstardom, and opened the door for more “found footage” horror films. But without the hype of the moment does the Blair Witch still have what it takes to scare you? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-blair-witch-project

      

October 20, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Blair Witch Project

Episode 460: Han Hot First!

Hot Toys has shipped its half-witted, scruffy looking, nerf herder…and his walking carpet pal! That’s right, the first Hot Toys Star Wars figures ever announced — Han Solo and Chewbacca — have now shipped, and Andrew has them in hand! Listen to this episode to find out why one of them has become his favorite Hot Toys figure yet!

Also in this week’s episode, Arnie has come back from New York Comic-Con with tons of photos and news about Hasbro, Kotobukiya, and other Star Wars collectibles. Join him, Marjorie, and guest Matt Booker from JediNews.uk to find out all the news, and then listen to an exclusive Q&A with the Hasbro Brand Team. They revealed when stores will fully stock new figures only to Star Wars Action News!

With Brock looking at the new short stories in the Rise of the Empire novel collection, Steve running down his thoughts on the new Force Awakens 3.75-inch figures, and more, it’s all on this week’s Star Wars Action News!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN460.mp3

      

October 18, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 460: Han Hot First!

Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ statues have always been great for Marvel collectors. Detailed, affordable, gorgeous, and sized perfectly so you can put a group together on one shelf, this line of vinyl figurines has been many collectors’ first foray into high-end collecting. But in 2015 they have released their best set yet — the Hulkbuster and Hulk from Age of Ultron! In this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review these newly released statues, as well as the Entertainment Earth Exclusive Rampaging Hulk statue variant!

And you can win one of the Entertainment Earth exclusive Hulk statues! Watch this week’s show, then head over to the contest to enter!



Also on this week’s show is the complete coverage of all the New York Comic-Con reveals! Find out about the new Legends figures, 6 and 3.75 inch, headed your way!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

October 13, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ statues have always been great for Marvel collectors. Detailed, affordable, gorgeous, and sized perfectly so you can put a group together on one shelf, this line of vinyl figurines has been many collectors’ first foray into high-end collecting. But in 2015 they have released their best set yet — the Hulkbuster and Hulk from Age of Ultron! In this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review these newly released statues, as well as the Entertainment Earth Exclusive Rampaging Hulk statue variant!

And you can win one of the Entertainment Earth exclusive Hulk statues! Watch this week’s show, then head over to the contest to enter!

Also on this week’s show is the complete coverage of all the New York Comic-Con reveals! Find out about the new Legends figures, 6 and 3.75 inch, headed your way!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/MT150.mp3

      

October 13, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

Ewoks: The Battle for Endor

1984’s television movie The Ewok Adventure was a smash success for ABC, and soon George Lucas was working on a sequel. The result is Ewoks: The Battle for Endor. A darker continuation of the previous movie, Battle for Endor introduces new baddies, and a new heroic character played by Wilford Brimley. Was the Force with the Ewoks this time? Join Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/ewoks-the-battle-for-endor

      

October 13, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Ewoks: The Battle for Endor

Natural Born Killers – A Podcast Skit & Preview

In 1994 Quentin Tarantino’s name was dominating cinema. Reservoir Dogs had found a huge audience on video. Pulp Fiction won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and movie buffs anxiously awaited for its October wide release. Through self-promotion and film-making, Tarantino was a media darling. But beating Pulp Fiction to theaters was Natural Born Killers – Oliver Stone’s thesis on the media based on one of Tarantino’s early scripts. And in 1994 fans had to decide which Tarantino film was their favorite. Natural Born Killers’ legacy is more controversial, with many real-life killers citing the film as their inspiration. How does the film hold up over 20 years later? Does its commentary on the media hold up then or now? Listen to the preview, then donate to Now Playing Podcast to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/natural-born-killers-a-podcast-skit-amp-preview

      

October 9, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Natural Born Killers – A Podcast Skit & Preview

The Ewok Adventure (Caravan of Courage)

George Lucas didn’t want to do any more Star Wars movies after Return of the Jedi, but he wasn’t done in that universe. Inspired by kids’ affection for the furry Ewoks Lucas ordered the creation of an Ewok TV Special, which grew into The Ewok Adventure – a two-hour ABC Movie of the Week. Does Star Wars work on the small budget of the small screen? And when did Wicket learn to talk? Join our hosts for this review and find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/the-ewok-adventure-caravan-of-courage

      

October 6, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on The Ewok Adventure (Caravan of Courage)

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 459: Fifty Shades of White

It’s been one month since Force Friday but the onslaught of new Star Wars products has not let up. From tie in items like vitamins to cereal to toothpaste to Pop Chips, Star Wars is on everything. And of course that means lots of new toys too!

On this episode of Star Wars Action News Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Andrew to look at some of the new Star Wars items in a head to head match.

First we put two BB-8s to the test — Hasbro’s Target Exclusive Remote Control BB-8 versus Sphero’s App Controlled BB-8. One is bigger, one is more expensive, but should you buy one, both, or neither?

Then we look at Disney’s new Elite line of 6.5-inch Die Cast action figures. They’re $5 more than Hasbro’s Black Series 6-inch, but every bit as in demand, selling out nationwide. On this show we put Disney’s Elite First Order Stormtrooper to the test against Hasbro’s Black Series counterpart.

Plus Brock joins us for a review of the novel Aftermath, we look at Hot Toys’ new Star Wars releases, and more on this episode of Star Wars Action News!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN459.mp3

      

October 5, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 459: Fifty Shades of White

True Romance – A Podcast Skit and Preview

True Romance isn’t directed by Quentin Tarantino, but it was his first script and the tale of two young lovers on the run from the mafia bears many similarities to Reservoir Dogs, Natural Born Killers and Pulp Fiction. With Top Gun and Beverly Hills Cop II director Tony Scott behind the show, and a star-studded cast, how does this 1993 film compare to Tarantino’s own films? Thanks to your donation to Now Playing Podcast you can listen and find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.com/donate.htm

      

October 2, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on True Romance – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Return of the Jedi

George Lucas concluded the Star Wars trilogy in 1983 with Return of the Jedi — a film thought for many years to be the final Star Wars movie ever. Needing to tie up every plot thread in two hours, this conclusion has been polarizing among fans, with some in the pro-Ewok camp, others anti-Ewok. Could this film ever live up to fan expectations? And which is better: Jedi Rocks or Lapti Nek? Join Arnie, Jakob, and Stuart for their review of Return of the Jedi to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/return-of-the-jedi

      

September 29, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Return of the Jedi

Reservoir Dogs – A Podcast Skit and Preview

Eight bad guys go from breakfast to a bloodbath in Reservoir Dogs. The film set the tone for crime movies in the 1990s and beyond. It also put the spotlight on indie cinema for that decade, opening doors for Robert Rodriguez, Kevin Smith, and other Miramax darlings. Most importantly, though, it introduced the world to writer/director Quentin Tarantino. The first time filmmaker became a critic’s darling with his first movie, and launched an award-winning career that has spanned over two decades. How does his first feature hold up so many years, and so many imitators, later? Donate to Now Playing to find out!

Arnie C: http://nowplayingpodcast.libsyn.com/reservoir-dogs-a-podcast-skit-and-preview

      

September 25, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews | , , , , , | Comments Off on Reservoir Dogs – A Podcast Skit and Preview