Hasbro Q&A — HasLab Sail Barge (and Yakface!) Update

From Left to Right, Steve Evans, Mark Boudreaux, and Joe Ninivaggi

Today Star Wars Action News was privileged to be one of only three fan sites participating in a Q&A with the Star Wars Brand Team at Hasbro. The topic was, of course, their current crowdfunding project for the Khetanna — Jabba the Hutt’s Sail Barge playset that measures 4-feet long.

Participating in the conversation were our long-time friends from Hasbro: Steve Evans (Design Director for Star Wars toys), Mark Boudreaux (Senior Principal Designer for Star Wars toys), and Joe Ninivaggi (Director, Global Brand Strategy & Marketing – Star Wars).

The conversation revealed some new information about the current campaign, and also had a nice video tour of the newly painted Sail Barge.

You can read the transcript of the interview below, but the high points are:

The Yakface figure included with the Khetanna, on the Power of the Force card with the silver coin, will have the lowest production run of any modern Star Wars figure (assuming the Barge’s numbers don’t end dramatically above 5,000)
If you live in the US or Canada the crowdfunding is the only way you will ever be able to buy the Barge. If the Barge is backed then Hasbro will make a small quantity of Barges available, but only for those living outside of the US and Canada.
The paint on the barge took over 200 man-hours. (The design of the barge took over “one thousand” Mark half-joked.)
The team is looking at only one Star Wars HasLab project per year. HasLab will do multiple projects per year, but the others will be for Marvel, Transformers, and My Little Pony.
This is the team’s first crowdfunding effort and they’re using it as a learning experience. Future HasLab projects will take current feedback into account regarding payment plans, cost of items, duration of the campaign, etc.
The Barge is incredibly cool with so many details that can only be seen close-up, including a sink faucet in the galley and a retractable microphone in Jabba’s dais.
If the Barge is funded the Hasbro team is looking at producing an updated Jabba the Hutt figure with an improved paint application and perhaps facial sculpting from their previous efforts.

Below is an rundown of the conversation.

The team started with a run-down of the Entertainment Weekly reveal of the painted Sail Barge, and the inclusion of the Power of the Force Yakface figure. Steve said the paint job was “200 man and woman hours” of work, to which Mark added “And that’s just to paint it. Not including the work that’s been done since… another 1,000 hours there.” They also noted a pick-up in orders since yesterday’s news, but they still need almost 1,800 orders in 12 days.

Then the Q&A Began

Question: What is your ideal rate for Star Wars campaigns? One per year, two per year, etc?

Answer: Joe said HasLab will likely have multiple initiatives per year across Transformers, My Little Pony, and Marvel, but they are starting with only one Star Wars initiative per year “and take it from there.”

Q: Why was a payment option not made available for the Barge as other companies do for items of similar price.

A: Joe replied, “I think this will answer a number of questions but this is our first time doing this. We’re learning a lot on this. HasbroToyShop, which, of course, is our partner that allows us to sell directly to fans, they’re set up a certain way and we went out with this particular model. There’s always opportunity to learn in the future, we’ve definitely seen that come up as a request and something that would hopefully make the product more accessible to all fans.”

Q: At Toy Fair Steve told Star Wars Action News that if the Barge is funded then there may be opportunities for it to be sold other methods. And on the HasLab FAQ it states “We reserve the rights to make the products (or similar versions of the products) available at other sources, such as online stores and retail locations, but such availability is not guaranteed.”

But in an Instagram post on March 19 Hasbro said the Barge would not be available via traditional retail outlets.

Can you clarify these statements? Is it possible the Barge will be available at retail if it is funded?

A: Steve clarified that if you live in the US and Canada then backing at HasbroLab.com is the only way you will be able to purchase the barge. There are no plans to take this to retail in the US and Canada. However, since only US and Canada can purchase from HasbroLab.com then, if the Barge hits its 5,000 orders, they would make an additional, limited quantity available to international buyers only.

Q: People say there’s not enough time to budget for a $500 item in the time of the Barge. In the future can we get a bit more notice?

Steve said they are getting insights daily and have learned a lot going for future projects like this. Their team read studies indicating 45 days is the optimal time for crowdfunding* and that longer campaigns have lower success rates. For future crowdfunding campaigns they will look at “everything” and see how to adjust timing.

(Note: In my own research I’ve read campaigns over 30 days have a lower success rate. Either way, Steve’s point is valid. -Arnie)

Q: Perhaps in the future could Hasbro announce the campaign at Toy Fair, but launch it at San Diego Comic-Con so collectors have a few months to save up, not just 45 days.

A: Joe said that is a good idea and they may look at doing that next time. They added that projects do not get much more ambitious in terms of size and price than the Sail Barge. They’ve wanted to do it for decades. But they know that price points for future items don’t always have to be this expensive.

Q: The Jabba on display in the published Sail Barge photos looks like the Toys R Us exclusive from a few years ago. Is it an old Jabba or is it a new Jabba?

Mark clarified that Jabba is the same sculpt that came with the Jabba/Rancor set, but they wanted to make a special Jabba for the barge so they’re looking at enhancing his deco. The photos released show more weathering on the body and highlights to the face than the Jabba/Rancor set had. They’ll be looking at techniques, either photo-real or more traditional techniques, to make this new Jabba noticeably different from the older version.

Q: Can Slave Leia be rereleased to pose in the Barge

A: Steve said for characters that enhance the Barge, they’re doing Yakface and Skiff Guard. They’ll look at other background characters from these scenes if the Barge is successful. As for Slave Leia–no plans but they’ll look at it.

Q: If the Barge meets its goal of 5,000, but not much higher, will this carded Yakface with the coin have the lowest production run of any modern Hasbro Star Wars figure?

A: Steve gave an emphatic “yes”. Historically Hasbro does not give production numbers for its products, but Steve compared the Yakface to their San Diego Comic-Con exclusives. For that convention he said they produce more than 5,000 of the exclusives (“not a lot more, but more”).

Steve added that Yakface on the Power of the Force card will not only be a “physical rarity” but also an “emotional rarity” given how Yakface and Blue Snaggletooth are the holy grails to many vintage Star Wars figure collectors.

Q: How will Hasbro handle broken/missing parts, and keep backers informed of progress?

A: Steve said for broken parts the usual Hasbro policy to contact Customer Service applies.

But Joe went on to say that the packaging team has been challenged to make the box secure. Additionally, they hope for the box to have nice presentation, including perhaps trays that slide out when packaged. They hope to make the experience of the unboxing as cool as the item itself. They feel presentation is really important with this, so it needs more than just printed inserts. “This is a vintage item, after all, and we want to make sure to present it,” Mark said.

In regards to communication with buyers, Joe said “It’s not everyday you buy something for $500 and don’t get it for a year afterwards.” As such, if the project is successful, the Hasbro team plans to take backers on a behind-the-scenes journey, keeping them updated with the inner workings of Hasbro on how the Barge is made and shipped.

Q: Will there be tape on the Vintage box?

A: The team asked what we would be interested in, and unanimously the sites requested no tape on the Vintage box, just a flap-fold, and tape the shipping carton.

There was also discussion if the Yakface will be shipped inside the same box as the Barge. Steve said they don’t know for sure–currently it is in the box but that could change.

Q: With less than two weeks away from the end of the campaign, with about 1800 orders needed, what is the mood at Hasbro? How has this impacted you emotionally?

A: Steve said, “We’re on the edge of our seats. The trajectory is what we expected. It spikes, levels off, and spikes in the end.” He said that the released pictures of the painted Sail Barge helped make it real for some people, and adding the exclusive Yakface also helped.

They all agreed the campaign is emotionally draining. “It’s taken up a lot of our time personally and we have invested ourselves greatly on something that doesn’t yet exist,” Steve said. “I feel confident because it’s a great project but it’s up to the fans.”

“You don’t want to see a grown man cry,” Mark added on as the interview came to an end.

Then we were treated to a video tour of the painted Sail Barge and the Hasbro team pointed out many features that have not had much attention from fans:

The jail in the lower level has a sliding metal door to differentiate from the wood. The Barge will come with two metal chains of different sizes to put different character sizes (perhaps a human and a Wookiee?) in the jail.
In the galley they wanted to “set a tone for the interiors” and then let fans embellish and fill it out to what they felt their fantasy for Jabba would be. The Barge has a kitchen counter, a couple sinks, faucet, and Chupas hanging from the wall in the back, setting the stage for how fans might like to complete their diorama. That’s one of the reasons they wanted to go with the Sail Barge: it’s awesome to start with, they said. Very iconic, a great movie beat with lots of characters involved, so they wanted something that could really push dioramas to the next level and interact with a lot of your characters both new and old.
And they have some “Work in progress” images of painting that will be coming soon.
Next to the galley is the armory. Axes are mounted to the wall as decoration. They also have some horn racks on the back wall where you can hang your blasters, staffs, etc. and there’s a table in the back where you can repair your weapons.
There are a couple staffs in the model photographs that were released, but those are not included with the barge. You will need to supply your own weapons and staffs. The axes on the wall are permanently attached decoration.
Moving into the lounge it’s more about comfort. A lot of wooden surfaces, wooden walls, wooden floors. There are opening and closing shutters on either side, as well as the dais which you can move back and forth a bit to adjust the floor plan.
You can actually pull the microphone out of the control panel on Jabba’s dias. It’s attached to a cable and for production they’re going to increase the length of the cable so you can have a C-3PO figure hold it.
One question they had was about foot pegs. They talked about it and, other than 2 foot pegs on the platform on the deck cannon, they’ve elected to not include foot pegs in the vehicle itself. They didn’t want to disrupt the aesthetics by putting traditional foot pegs and they didn’t want to limit character placement.
They have the rancor trophy mounted to the wall, Ishi Tib heads, a Gammorrean Guard head, and Jabba’s mural mounted to the wall. They wanted to include all the details seen in the film and then let you embellish with your own accessories.
There is a side hatch with a larger port where the Weequay can come out to surprise Luke (it’s larger as the barge isn’t QUITE to scale with 3.75 in figures).
They worked closely with Lucasfilm for all the details on the cockpit. They went to the archives and looked at all the reference photos, and also went into the vault to get any inspiration they might need to include other details.
There is a corridor so a figure can walk from the Cockpit all through the ship.
There will also be a trap door in the deck above that goes down into the jail. A button on the side will allow you to activate the trap door. “Gotta have some fun right? It can’t be all serious display stuff,” Steve said.
They’re making a subtle revision to the rail so if you have a Vism with a cannon open stock it will be able to fit onto the rail.
The sails would be removable so if you wanted to open the deck up for play it’s easy to do. The sails will stay in tact but you’re able to lift them off!

And with that Steve concluded the interview saying “Thank you for all your support. Fingers crossed, trust in the force, #BacktheYak, #BacktheBarge!”

If you want to order, the campaign is open until April 3, 2018. You can back the project now at HasbroLab.com

You can see newly released photos of the Barge and its accessories in the gallery below!

March 22, 2018 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | Crowdfunding, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Haslab, Movie, Movies, News, Sail Barge, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Toys | 9 Comments

Star Wars Toy Sales Down as “Movie Fatigue” Sets In

Are you suffering from “Movie Tie-In Fatigue?”

Per a Bloomberg article, Star Wars toy sales are down. Specifically adult collectors are still buying (but, judging by some “fan” sites, they’re complaining the entire time they shop); however, kids have less interest in the Star Wars toys.

The article states: “While ‘Star Wars’ was still the top-selling toy line during the nine-week holiday period, sales fell from 2016 and the brand lost its No. 1 position for the year…This was despite “Last Jedi” being the top-grossing film released in the U.S. last year “

The most telling quotes? “Adult collectors, who grew up with the brand, are still buying a lot of merchandise when the toys come out, but demand dies down afterward… That doesn’t bode well for Hasbro, which has the main “Star Wars” toy partnership, or Jakks Pacific Inc., which has a secondary license. ”

What do you think? Is the problem fatigue? Is a new movie per year too much? Is it the types of toys offered? Why do YOU think sales are down? Let us know in the comments!

January 19, 2018 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, Movies & Television, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Podcasting, Podcasts, Press Release, Sideshow Collectibles, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Television, Toys, TV series | 1 Comment

Hellraiser – Pinhead’s JUDGMENT – A Video Interview With Paul T. Taylor

Hosted by Arnie Carvalho

In the tenth HELLRAISER film a new actor gets nailed with the starring role — Paul T. Taylor. In this video Taylor discusses his acting past, how he got the role, how the production went, and his hopes on how the new HELLRAISER: JUDGMENT is judged by fans!

Join Arnie and Paul now in this spoiler-free behind-the-scenes look at this upcoming Hellraiser film!

January 18, 2018 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, Movies & Television, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | Clive Barker, Direct-To-Video, Entertainment, Film, Hellraiser, Hellraiser Judgment, horror, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Paul T Taylor, Podcasts | Comments Off on Hellraiser – Pinhead’s JUDGMENT – A Video Interview With Paul T. Taylor

Go or Pass on MOVIEPASS – Should You Use This Service?

by Arnie Carvalho

Though the service is six years old, MoviePass has become a hot topic for theater goers this week, from the take-over by Helios and Maheson Analytics, to the price drop from $30 to $9.95 per month, to AMC Theaters pursuing legal action to stop the service. But should you buy in?

What is MoviePass?

MoviePass is a subscription service where, for $9.95 per month, you can see one (2D, standard format) movie per day in theaters. This means you can literally see 365 movies for under $120. That comes to about $0.33 per movie, compared to the current national average of $8.84 per ticket.

This is not a scam or a trick. There are no blackout dates. You can see movies the day they come out if you want, any showing, any day of the week.

How does this work?

MoviePass is not a service offered by your local theater chain. Unlike Regal Theater’s “Ultimate Ticket Program” where, for $100, you can see an individual movie (like Wonder Woman) once per day for its entire run, MoviePass is its own company operating outside the theater chains.

Here’s how it works:

1) You sign up to their service online for $9.95 per month, cancel any time. They will then send you a physical “credit card” which will arrive in 5-7 days.

2) Once you have their card you must go to the theater and then use their app to pick the movie. You cannot order your movie tickets online. You must be within 100 yards (yes, yards) of the theater to get the tickets.

3) You can only buy tickets same day. The app only shows you today’s showtimes. So you cannot use this to pre-buy any tickets.

4) Once your movie is selected, MoviePass will “load” your card with enough money to buy a ticket. Then you use your card to get the ticket at the kiosk or the box office at the theater.

5) This does not work for premiere screenings. IMAX, 3D, etc. is not included in MoviePass’ $9.95 option. As their site clearly states: “ We currently do not support (in part or entirety) any enhanced or special screenings that involve an upcharge at the theater. Examples of these would include 3D, IMAX, Fathom Events, DBOX, ETX/RPX, film festival screenings, etc.”

Wait–isn’t MoviePass losing money? Nope–they’re going to sell your data.

If you do the math it doesn’t take long to realize that if you see 2 movies per month on average you’re saving money with MoviePass. If, on average, two movies cost $19, you’re saving $10 per month. And that’s real money MoviePass is paying to the movie theater. Though newly aquired, some sites have already declared the service “doomed.” But MoviePass, run by Netflix exec Mitch Lowe, actually intends to lose that money for a period. Their business strategy is to build a loyal customer base of millions of users. Then the money they lose on movie tickets will be made through data mining.

Much like Fandango, Netflix, Google, and Fandango do now, MoviePass will gather information about your viewing habits and use them to sell you stuff. They will make money through ads targeted directly to you. They also may make even more money by selling your data (albeit anonymized) to larger data mining companies.

Finally, the executives at MoviePass hope theaters will buy into the service to help offset the losses. Through increased attendance and more concession sales (which reaps theater chains the most profit) MoviePass views themselves as a partner for theaters.

Why is AMC upset?

Unfortunately it doesn’t seem that theaters are as happy about this. AMC has threatened legal action against MoviePass.

On the surface AMC is claiming MoviePass is setting customers up for disappointment, lowering the “perceived value” of a movie ticket.

In truth, theater chains like AMC and Regal are investing heavily in their own rewards programs, like the AMC Stubs Premiere service which costs $15 per year. They want 100% of the ticket price and also the ability to collect the same data MoviePass desires.

So should you subscribe?

Perhaps you should subscribe, but I will not be signing up for MoviePass.

I will admit–on the surface this service looks like a great way to save money. In the first eight-and-a-half months of 2017 I’ve seen 32 movies in theaters. I have spent over $400 at the movie theater box office; 9 months of MoviePass would have cost me less than $90.

However, there’s a deal-breaker for me in that fine print: MoviePass is only good for standard, 2D movie showings.

Of the 32 films I’ve seen this year, only 12 were 2D, standard. The other 20 were 3D, IMAX, D-BOX, or AMC Prime experiences. If a movie is released in IMAX that’s the way I want to see it — big and loud. While 3D films are in decline the IMAX experience is still one for which I’m willing to pay a premium.

So in those 9 months I only spent $96 on 2D, standard movie tickets. MoviePass would have cost me $89. That $7 difference is not worth the trade-off of online ticket ordering.

Then when I look at the upcoming slate of films I plan to watch theatrically in 2017 most will be IMAX or 3D. Blade Runner 2049, Kingsmen: The Golden Circle, Justice League, Thor: Ragnarok, Star Wars: The Last Jedi and even the glorified television pilot Marvel’s Inhumans will all be IMAX experiences. With or without MoviePass I’ll be paying AMC full ticket prices for those.

Without the convenience of online ordering I would need to save at least $10 per month, $60 per year, with MoviePass. While there are many standard, 2D films I’m excited for, including Jigsaw, Death Wish, and It, I’m not sure I’ll be seeing 12 2D movies in the next three months to make the trade-off worth it.

If MoviePass were to reinstate their premium option, hopefully at $14.95 per month but even at $19.95 per month, they would likely have my money. But for now I will Pass on MoviePass.

Arnie Carvalho is co-host of Now Playing Podcast. You can read his movie reviews in the upcoming book Underrated Movies We Recommend, available for pre-order now.

Corrections: This article was updated at 4pm EST for the following items:

The “Premium” ticket is no longer offered by MoviePass–they only have the $9.99 2D option now. That information, added after initial publication, was removed
They have removed the “watch each movie only once” restriction. That information was removed from the article

August 17, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | AMC Theaters, Enertainment, Film, Movie, MoviePass, Movies, News, Theaters | 8 Comments

IMAX, 4k, Ring the Death Knell for 3D

by Arnie Carvalho

Did James Cameron wait too long for his Avatar sequels? It seems that by the time Avatar 2 is released (optimistically scheduled for 2020) the 3D format utilized by that 2009 original may be a thing of the past.

IMAX Announces 2D “Preference”

IMAX CEO Richard Gelfond announced this week that the company will be reducing the number of 3D screenings on their high-priced, large format projectors and screens. He cited a “clear preference” from North American audiences for 2D films.

This statement of direction does not signal an abrupt shift. IMAX’s most recent release, Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk, was filmed and released only in 2D. (Nolan has a history of disliking the 3D format, refusing Warner Bros’ requrest for his Dark Knight films to be released in the format which commands a higher ticket price.) Before that, the 3D post-converted Spider-Man: Homecoming was shown on IMAX screens in a combination of 2D and 3D presentation. This is a change from even a year ago when most IMAX viewings required the audience to don a pair of special, plastic glasses.

This follows a recent history of movie-goers intentionally choosing 2D presentation and falling 3D ticket sales.

Home Video Flattens Out

It’s not only in theaters that 3D is dying. Movie viewers also have shown a preference for the 2D picture in their homes. In 2010, riding off Avatar’s success, High Definition Blu-Ray discs started shipping in 3D formats (the first of which was Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs). 3D features were included on all high-end 1080p televisions and home projectors.

However, with the recent advances in 4k resolution, 3D has become a feature of the past. Over the past few years television manufacturers like Sony and LG have phased out 3D capabilities on most of their 4k televisions. With their 2016 models LG only offered 3D on their curved television sets; in 2017 3D was removed altogether. Likewise 4k home projectors are removing support for 3D, with only Sony offering true 4k projectors that are backwards-compatible with the 3D Blu-Ray format.

Indeed, there is no established standard for 4k home video content to be displayed in 3D; currently movie buyers must choose between the higher resolution or the greater depth in their films.

Is this a win for consumers?

These changes follow the standard market practice of meeting consumer demand.

The 3D format has long been rife with viewer complaints. In addition to being forced to wear glasses to watch 3D content, be it in theaters or at home, many viewers could not appreciate the added dimension. Per vision insurance company VSP, 5% of the population cannot percieve 3D, and another 25% have trouble perceiving 3D images. Another 25% or more have complained of headaches, eye strain, and eye fatigue from current 3D digital projection.

These complaints have gotten many people to buy special “2D Glasses” which allow them to see (non IMAX) 3D films in 2D format. (Now Playing Podcast host Marjorie can vouch for these glasses’ effectiveness.)

Many theater-goers also complained about the unreliable quality of 3D in films, much due to the post-conversion process many studios use to save money. The vast majority of 3D films were post-converted–in 2017 only Transformers: The Last Knight was shot natively in the 3D format. On Now Playing Podcast we have complained about lackluster 3D in Spider-Man: Homecoming, War for the Planet of the Apes, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, and other movies.

Hollywood studios fought this trend. Many studios intentionally limited 2D availability of films, including 2012’s Prometheus, in order to reap higher profits from the inflated ticket prices.

Will this hurt studios?

Yet despite these consumer complaints, studios have continued to push the 3D format, which commands higher ticket prices. As movie budgets continue to expand, the higher priced 3D tickets, IMAX tickets, and other “premium” theater experiences have bolstered studio bottom lines. More, the 3D Blu-Rays sell for $30 or more, while their 2D counterparts are often half that. (Of note, the higher-resolution 4k Blu-Ray discs are often priced equal to, or higher than, their 3D counterparts.)

While the 3D Post Conversion can add $10 million or more to a film’s cost, the increased revenue often offsets that. Many older films, including Jurassic Park and Top Gun were post-converted and re-released to theaters to grab their studios a quick buck.

Yet this switch back to 2D may not bring cheaper ticket prices. AMC Theaters charges the same for 2D and 3D IMAX screenings. It’s possible theaters may raise all ticket prices to current 3D prices to help offset these losses. Also, studios and theater chains have discussed having “event movie” pricing, where tickets cost more for big-budget blockbusters with or without “premium” gimmicks like 3D.

No change for animation?

The movie format that has generated the greatest 3D success is kids’ fare and computer-animated movies, such as LEGO Batman and Moana. As these films are entirely computer-generated the 3D is more ingrained in their development. The effects are better, and the audience for those films are primarily younger and not yet burnt-out by the format. While Gelfond made no specific mention of animated films staying in 3D, it is likely these will remain in that format for years to come.

Modern 3D History

The modern 3D era was brought in by Cameron in two waves. In 2003 the first modern, digital 3D film was his IMAX documentary Ghosts of the Abyss. The format had a slow growth over the next six years, mostly as a gimmick in kids films including Spy Kids and The Polar Express.

The change to 3D was a clumsy one. Superman Returns and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix both had select scenes converted to IMAX 3D–requiring customers to don and remove

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_3D_films_(2005_onwards)

glasses through the films.

Modern 3D came into its own in 2009. By that time the 3D cameras required had come down in price. Horror films (which had heavily relied on 3D in the ’80s) got into the game with My Bloody Valentine 3D and The Final Destination. Animated films premiered in the format, including Coraline, Monsters vs. Aliens, Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.

But Cameron ushered in a new age with the 3D film Avatar. Somewhat bolstered by 3D and IMAX ticket prices, Avatar became the top-grossing film of all-time. This created a 3D “gold rush” among studios, exponentially increasing the quantity of 3D films produced.

This growth continued until 2011, when 63 3D movies were released. Growth then leveled off through 2015, when the number of films started to decline.

With these changes to home video and IMAX formats, it is likely 3D films may return to their pre-Avatar numbers.

What do we lose, besides depth?

I’m no great fan of 3D. However, as a movie-goer who prefers to see the movie as the director intended, I’m slightly upset by the loss of the 3D home format. Every movie I’ve purchased since 2010 has been in 3D, if available. I was especially happy with the Transformers films which not only were released in 3D but also changed to the IMAX aspect ratio for their home video releases.

I remember growing up watching movies like Friday the 13th Part III, Jaws 3-D, Emmanuelle 4, and Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare on video. All three films had 3D components in theaters which translated poorly to television. The moments of “I can tell that should be 3D” worsened each viewing experience.

I recently purchased my first 4k TV and had to go through great pains to find one that would continue to support my 3D Blu-Ray discs. It seems in the next five years any movie with great 3D, such as Avatar, Tron: Legacy, and X-Men: Apocalypse will only be seen in their flattened versions.

Even movies filmed in 2D, such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 had effects sequences specifically designed in 3D to showcase the technology.

Home movie viewers will lose the ability to view many movies from the past decade as they were intended to be seen.

Final Thought

But overall, I believe 3D is a gimmick that more than ran its course. I applaud IMAX for choosing consumers over studios, and I hope that filmmakers now focus on plot and character depth, instead of manufactured depth on the screen.

What do you think? Sound off in the comments!

July 28, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | 3D, 4k, Enertainment, Film, IMAX, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, sci-fi, Spider-Man, Star Wars, X-Men | 5 Comments

THE CABIN IN THE WOODS arrives on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack September 5

The horror-comedy film The Cabin in the Woods is coming to 4k Blu-Ray on September 5th.

Produced and co-written by Buffy the Vampire Slayer creator Joss Whedon, this film brings to the big screen the meta comedy and horror that was Buffy‘s trademark. You can hear our full review of this movie in the Now Playing Podcast archives.

The 4k Combo pack (with Blu-Ray and Digital HD copies) is $22.99 and up for pre-order now. We’ll provide a review of the technical aspects of this release when it’s available.

Lionsgate’s full press release is below:

Discover the truth behind The Cabin in the Woods when it arrives for the first time on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray™ and Digital HD) September 5 from Lionsgate. Featuring an all-star cast includingChris Hemsworth, Jesse Williams, Kristen Connolly, Anna Hutchison, and Fran Kranz, the critically acclaimed horror will be available in stunning 4K Ultra HD resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR), which delivers the brightest, most vivid and realistic color with the greatest contrast. The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray will also feature Dolby Vision™ high-dynamic range (HDR) and Dolby Atmos immersive audio. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Together with the captivating sound of Dolby Atmos, consumers will experience both cutting-edge imaging and state-of-the-art sound technology for a fully immersive entertainment experience. Co-written by producer Joss Whedon (The Avengers franchise) and director Drew Goddard (Cloverfield), The Cabin in the Woods 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack will be available for the suggested retail price of $22.99.

OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS

A rambunctious group of five college friends steal away for a weekend of debauchery in an isolated country cabin, only to be attacked by horrific supernatural creatures in a night of endless terror and bloodshed. Sound familiar? Just wait. As the teens begin to exhibit standard horror movie behavior, a group of technicians in a control room are scrutinizing, and sometimes even controlling, every move the terrified kids make! With their efforts continually thwarted by the all– powerful eye in the sky, do they have any chance of escape?

4K/BLU-RAY/DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentary with Writer/Director Drew Goddard and Writer/Producer Joss Whedon

· “We Are Not Who We Are: Making The Cabin in the Woods” Featurette

· “An Army of Nightmares: Make-up & Animatronic Effects” Featurette

· “Primal Terror: Visual Effects” Featurette

· “The Secret Secret Stash” Featurette

· WonderCon Q&A

· “It’s Not What You Think: The Cabin in the Woods BonusView™ Mode” (Blu-ray™ only)

CAST

Kristen Connolly The Happening, Revolutionary Road, “Zoo”

Chris Hemsworth Thor franchise, The Avengers franchise, Rush

Anna Hutchison The Right Girl, “Go Girls,” “Power Rangers Jungle Fury”

Fran Kranz The Village, “Dollhouse,” Donnie Darko

Jesse Williams “Grey’s Anatomy,” Lee Daniels’ The Butler,Brooklyn’s Finest

Richard Jenkins Jack Reacher, The Visitor

Bradley Whitford “The West Wing”

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Year of Production: 2012

Type: Theatrical Release

Rating: Rated R for strong bloody horror violence and gore, language, drug use and some sexuality/nudity

Genre: Horror, Comedy

Closed Captioned: N/A

Subtitles: English, Spanish, English SDH

Feature Run Time: 95 Minutes

4K Format: 2160p Ultra High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen 2.40:1 Presentation

Blu-ray Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen 2.40:1 Presentation

4K Audio Status: English Dolby Atmos, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio Optimized for Late-Night Listening

Blu-ray Audio Status: English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio™

July 17, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | 4k, Blu-ray, Cabin in the Woods, Joss Whedon, News, Press Release | Comments Off on THE CABIN IN THE WOODS arrives on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack September 5

PEELERS Review: This Zombie/Stripper Film Isn’t APEEL-ing, it’s Appalling.

Review copy provided courtesy of October Coast Publicity

I like zombies. I like strippers. So it seems zombie-strippers would be (pardon the pun) a no-brainer. But 2008’s Jenna Jameson/Robert Englund film Zombie Strippers fell in its high heels. 2012’s Zombies Vs Strippers failed to get a rise out of me. And defying my expectations, Sevé Schelenz’s new film Peelers is even worse than those two previous efforts.

Peelers’ concept is simple enough. When four coal miners accidentally strike oil they head to the Titty Balls Strip Club to celebrate. And it’s the club’s last night as owner “Blue” Jean Douglas, played by Wren Walker, has sold the club to a land developer who plans to shut it down. Soon their night of revelry turns into revulsion as the black ooze infected the miners turning them into bloodthirsty, mindless killers. No one in the club is safe, and the infection is spreading.

This set-up seems like a perfect throwback to ‘80s slasher films. I had low expectations for Peelers, but if it could give me base genre thrills along the lines of Prom Night 3 (yeah, part 3, not even part 1) or Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan I would have given this film a solid recommend.

Sure enough, the film’s set-up seems to indicate that’s what I’ll get as we’re introduced to owner “Blue Jean”, her bad-boy brother Logan (Madison J. Loos), and the various strippers, bouncers, bartenders, and cooks that populate the Titty Balls. Instantly we see a large cast we know will lead to a decent body count. And it doesn’t take long before the miners arrive, and one begins regurgitating and transforming into a zombie.

And I was jazzed by some comic book cred. One character is named Logan, and another is Remy. I could chalk that up to a coincidence, but when the bartender drops a line about adamantium it’s obvious writer Lisa DeVita is an X-Men fan.

From there all the film had to do was coast on “cruise control” and give me some inventive kills along the way. Unfortunately first-time screenwriter DeVita can’t even accomplish that.

The set-ups in this film are so obvious I thought DeVita was trying to be funny. In the first fifteen minutes of the film we are introduced to what I can only call Chekhov’s arsenal: the strip club has a baseball bat, several handguns, and even, improbably enough, a chainsaw. Clearly every awkwardly-shown item will (and does) lead to later zombie defense.

But soon I realize the script wasn’t being ironic, it’s just poor. The plotting is confusing in several ways. For example, the miners believe they found oil, but it smells awful and converts them to zombies. Yet later we’re told it is still actual oil that can fuel your vehicle…and turn you into the living dead?

Beyond ridiculous, the script is downright ignorant. (Minor spoiler) The kryptonite for these oil monsters isn’t a gunshot to the head, it’s….water? The rationale is “Water and oil don’t mix” so, obviously, water will kill these bloodthirsty beasts?

Unlikely as it seems, the stupidity only escalates from there! The survivors in the club could just run away, but “Blue Jean” marshals them to stay and fight, lest these monsters go to the general population. Yet no one realizes that if they just wait out one good rainstorm then the problem will take care of itself.

Additionally, this group has every weapon known to god and man, but not one person has a cell phone?

If I gave the film the benefit of the doubt I’d say this was all intentional humor, but the leaden dialogue delivered by a cast of complete unknowns makes it all seem deadly serious. And deathly boring.

Yet I found myself slightly impressed with the production. Post-viewing research told me Peelers was a Kickstarter-funded film made for about $20,000. For that small sum Peelers achieved quality sound work, and decent camerawork. I looked up cinematographer Lindsay George and he has over a decade’s work on shorts and television. The result is a professional looking production that seems to make spectacular work of existing lights, and good effect of digital video cameras that work well in low-light conditions.

Some of the gore effects are also passable for cheapie-horror.

But if I’m complimenting a movie for saying it’s well lit, I’m stretching to find compliments. George is a good cameraman but he had nothing good in front of the camera to film. And several times he’s let down by poor staging and editing that makes action scenes downright confusing.

If you’re only requirement for this film is gratuitous nudity, yes, you’ll find it here, but every single bit of it is undercut by the most repugnant of “humor.” One stripper does her dance, only to end by giving guys in the front row a golden shower. Another stripper is late into her third trimester. I’ve been to a couple dive clubs in my life, but this is simply grotesque.

And yes, one zombie is indeed killed when the pregnant stripper’s water breaks on his head. If you think that sounds cool, you’ll still be bored as hell by Peelers.

It takes a lot to revolt me. The strippers here pulled it off. So…congratulations? But it wasn’t even in the fun Human Centipede way. More in the vein of “no one should have to watch this.”

Finally, the title Peelers was misleading. From the poster, showing an amputated stripper, and the title I thought I’d be watching a film about creatures that peel the skin off their victims. It would be the ultimate strip-club irony–a monster that continues to “undress” their nude victims. But these beasts just bite and gouge. The title, I suppose, references the strippers, but I’ve never heard a dancer called a “peeler” before. I suppose it’s a shame the title Striptese, Zombies vs Strippers, Zombie Strippers, Showgirls, and Zombeavers were taken. (FYI, every single movie listed there is more enjoyable than Peelers).

The end result is a film that seems to think it’s a cheapie From Dusk ‘Til Dawn rip-off, and ends up being so much worse than either of Dawn’s direct-to-video sequels. It’s not even fun in a so-bad-it’s-good way. It’s a mind-numbing 90 minutes that I will never get back.

The cover art reads “You may not get the happy ending you were looking for.” I certainly didn’t. Neither will anyone who watches this imbecilic production.

Congratulations to the film crew for accomplishing what they did on so little budget, but next time perhaps give that script a second draft before you start shooting.

July 14, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Reviews | horror, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Review, Reviews, Romero, Slasher, Strippers, Zombies | Comments Off on PEELERS Review: This Zombie/Stripper Film Isn’t APEEL-ing, it’s Appalling.

Star Wars Collecting Sites Join Forces for Star Wars Celebration Patch Giveaway

Star Wars Collecting Fan Sites and Podcasts have again combined Forces at 2017’s Star Wars Celebration Orlando!

Visit the Celebration Collecting Track Social Lounge (Room W305) to meet the faces behind top Star Wars collecting sites and receive and get exclusive swag!

Jedi Business (JediBusiness.com), Jedi News (JediNews.co.uk), Jedi Temple Archives (JediTempleArchives.com), Star Wars Action News (SWActionNews.com), and This Week in Star Wars (ThisWeekInStarWars.com) each will be on hand to greet fellow collectors, and during their slots they will be giving out one piece of a six-part patch set featuring vintage Star Wars action figures.

The 6th patch is being given away by the Celebration Collecting Track Social Lounge itself. These patches will be randomly given away through the Collecting Track social media. Participants in the Collecting Track’s Collection Re-Collections: Your Star Wars Story video project will also receive this 6th patch piece. Details on this program are at http://bit.ly/2nN9Lpf

Collect all 6 patches to assemble a puzzle featuring all 12 characters from the first wave of Kenner figures released nearly 40 years ago!

The Scheduled Meet-And-Greet times are below. The first 300 people at each Meet-And-Greet are guaranteed that site’s patch. Plus, for those who miss out on the meet-and-greets, the sites will be randomly giving away 10 patches each day to Celebration attendees. Follow the sites on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for details how to win!

March 31, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | 2017, Collecting, Conventions, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Kenner, Movie, Movies, News, Patch, Press Release, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Star Wars Celebration Orlando, Swag, Vintage Star Wars Figures | 1 Comment

Marvel Presents “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet” Featuring “Born A Snake” by P.O.S

MARVEL COMICS PROUDLY PRESENTS

“Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – PART nine”

FEATURING “Born A Snake” by P.O.S

Innovative Marvel Video Series Bridges Marvel Comics with Top Music Talent

New York, NY—January 25, 2017 — Marvel Comics continues to present this year’s breakout Marvel Super Hero – the Black Panther – through a monthly video series that continues to link the world of comics and hip-hop blending animated comics along with commentary from Black Panther writer, Ta-Nehisi Coates. Additionally, “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – Part Nine” is launching the brand new track, “Born A Snake” by P.O.S off of Chill, dummy available on Doomtree Records.

Within Marvel Comics’ Black Panther, written by The Atlantic national correspondent and National Book Award winner, Ta-Nehisi Coates, Shuri, Black Panther’s sister is reborn anew! New powers, a new codename and a new target: the Midnight Angels. The newly independent Dora Milaje make their final accord with Tetu and The People…T’Challa takes an audience with the voice of dissent, Changamire. But will both men finally listen to reason?

Continuing the excitement surrounding Marvel’s celebrated Super Hero T’Challa, the Black Panther, the latest episode of this revolutionary multi-artist hip-hop-inspired video series samples a brand new track, “Born A Snake” by Stefon Alexander, also known as, P.O.S.

“In crazy and unprecedented times like we are living in right now, I think the Black Panther comic is more important than ever,” said Alexander. “Not just for young black comic book reading kids, but really for everyone of all races and ages. Comics have always been an escape and a window into different people’s ideas. In my humble opinion, Coates, his ideas, and these characters should be celebrated by everyone. The more examples and shades of blackness available, the better and I am honored to be a part of this.”

Watch “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet – Part Nine” now!

January 25, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Marvel Presents “Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet” Featuring “Born A Snake” by P.O.S

An Assassin Comes to Vegas – Your First Look at ELEKTRA #1!

An Assassin Comes to Vegas – Your First Look at ELEKTRA #1!

New York, NY—January 25^th, 2016 — Sin City has a new player as Marvel’s deadly assassin heads for the bright lights and dry heat of the Las Vegas Strip! Today, Marvel is pleased to present your first look inside in the can’t-miss ELEKTRA #1 – a brand-new series coming this February from writer Matt Owens (Marvel’s Luke Cage) and artist Juann Cabal! Elektra is “Running With the Devil” as the one-time ninja assassin attempts to lose herself in the vibrant sea of neon, noise and anonymity. It’s time for a fresh start. But when you have a past as tumultuous as hers, you can’t outrun it for long! Her arrival hasn’t gone unnoticed by the criminal element of Las Vegas either – drawing the attention of none other than the villainous Arcade! He’s got his eyes on her as the newest contestant for his revamped Murderworld! Can Elektra ever truly escape the vortex of violence that has consumed her life for so long? Or is the cycle doomed to repeat itself? Her new journey into Murderworld and beyond begins on February 22^nd in ELEKTRA #1!

ELEKTRA #1 (DEC160870)
Written by MATT OWENS

Art by JUANN CABAL

Cover by ELIZABEH TORQUE

Connecting Variant by MARCO CHECCHETTO (DEC160871)
Variant Covers by PASQUAL FERRY (DEC160874), BILL SIENKIEWICZ (DEC160872)
and SKOTTIE YOUNG (DEC160875)

Hip-Hop Variant by KERON GRANT (DEC160873)

FOC – 1/30/17, On-Sale – 02/22/17

January 25, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on An Assassin Comes to Vegas – Your First Look at ELEKTRA #1!

Vestron’s Wishmaster Collection Arrives on Blu-ray 3/28

Street Date: 03/28/17

Blu-ray™ SRP: $49.99

Your wish has come true with the Vestron Video Collector’s Series upcoming release of the Wishmaster Collection, a must-have for cult classic collectors, available for the first time on limited-edition Blu-ray™ on March 28 from Lionsgate. In the Wishmaster series, an evil djinn grants three wishes to the person who releases him, fulfilling a prophecy that will unleash his fellow djinn upon the earth. With brand-new illustration from renowned artist Thomas Hodge, the three-disc Wishmaster Collection limited-edition Blu-ray™ includes all four films, restored and remastered, plus never-before-seen special features, and will be available for the suggested retail price of $49.99.

WISHMASTER COLLECTION OFFICIAL SYNOPSIS

Magically powerful and supernaturally evil, the ancient entity known as the Djinn can grant your wildest dreams — and unleash your darkest nightmares. Follow the Wishmaster’s bloodcurdling quest to devour souls and plunge the world into eternal damnation in this fright-filled collection of all four horror-fantasy favorites.

WISHMASTER SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentaries:

o Director Robert Kurtzman and screenwriter Peter Atkins

o Director Robert Kurtzman and stars Andrew Divoff and Tammy Lauren

· Isolated Score Selections/Audio Interview with composer Harry Manfredini

· Featurettes

o “Out of the Bottle” – Interviews with director Robert Kurtzman and co-producer David Tripet

o “The Magic Words” – An Interview with screenwriter Peter Atkins

o “The Djinn and Alexandra” – Interviews with stars Andrew Divoff and Tammy Lauren

o “Captured Visions” – An Interview with director of photography Jacques Haitkin

o “Wish List” – Interviews with actors Kane Hodder and Ted Raimi

o Vintage Featurette: “Making of Wishmaster”

· Trailers, Spots, Galleries: Teaser & Theatrical Trailers, TV & Radio Spots, Storyboard & Still Galleries

· Behind-the-Scenes Footage Compilation

WISHMASTER 2: EVIL NEVER DIES SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentary with writer/director Jack Sholder

· Trailer

· Still Gallery

WISHMASTER 3: BEYOND THE GATES OF HELL SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentary with director Chris Angel and cast members John Novak, Jason Connery, and Louisette Geiss

· Vintage Featurette: “Making of Wishmaster 3: Beyond the Gates of Hell”

· Trailer

WISHMASTER 4: THE PROPHECY FULFILLED SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentaries:

o Director Chris Angel and cast members Michael Trucco and Jason Thompson

o Director Chris Angel and actor John Novak

· Featurette: “Wishmasterpiece Theatre”

· Trailer

WISHMASTER COLLECTION

Year of Production: 1997

Type: Catalog Release

Rating: R for horror violence and gore, and for language.

Genre: Horror

Closed-Captioned: N/A

Subtitles: English SDH

Feature Run Time: 90 Minutes

Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen (1.78:1)

Audio: English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio™

WISHMASTER 2: EVIL NEVER DIES

Year of Production: 1999

Type: Catalog Release

Rating: R for horror violence and gore, strong language and some sexuality.

Genre: Horror

Closed-Captioned: N/A

Subtitles: English SDH

Feature Run Time: 96 Minutes

Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen (1.85:1)

Audio: English 5.0 DTS-HD Master Audio™

WISHMASTER 3: BEYOND THE GATES OF HELL

Year of Production: 2001

Title Copyright: Wishmaster 3 © 2001 Wishmaster 3 Production, Inc. & Pendle View (WM), Ltd. All Rights Reserved. Artwork & Supplementary Materials © 2017 Lions Gate Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Type: Catalog Release

Rating: R for violence/gore, some sexuality and language.

Genre: Horror

Closed-Captioned: N/A

Subtitles: English SDH

Feature Run Time: 92 Minutes

Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen (1.85:1)

Audio: English 2.0 DTS-HD Master Audio™

WISHMASTER: THE PROPHECY FULFILLED

Year of Production: 2002

Type: Catalog Release

Rating: R for strong violence/gore, sexuality and some language.

Genre: Horror

Closed-Captioned: N/A

Subtitles: English SDH

Feature Run Time: 92 Minutes

Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen (1.85:1)

Audio: English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio™

January 23, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Vestron’s Wishmaster Collection Arrives on Blu-ray 3/28

Arcana and Shout! Factory announce HP LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM

Pop Culture Icons Mark Hamill, Jeffrey Combs, Christopher Plummer and Doug Bradley

Lead All-Star Voice Cast for the Next Installment of Howard Lovecraft Animated Film Series

Vancouver, B.C. and Los Angeles, Calif. – January 2016 – Arcana Studios and Shout! Factory, a multi-platform media company, today announced the casting of Mark Hamill (Star Wars), Jeffrey Combs (Transformers Prime, Re-Animator), Oscar®-winner Christopher Plummer (Howard Lovecraft and the Frozen Kingdom, Beginners) and Doug Bradley (Hellraiser) in the upcoming animated feature HOWARD LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM. Mark Hamill is set to voice the role of Dr. Henry Armitage, and Jeffrey Combs has been cast in the role of King Abdul. Christopher Plummer and Doug Bradley will be reprising their roles as Dr. Herbert West and Nyarlathotep.

Written, directed and produced by Sean Patrick O’Reilly, HOWARD LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM is the highly-anticipated movie adaption of Arcana’s popular graphic novel of the same name, and the second installment of Howard Lovecraft animated film series. A veritable love letter to Lovecraft himself, HOWARD LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM is a fantastical animated feature that follows a young Howard and his friend ‘Spot’ on an awe-inspiring adventure from the frozen wasteland to the depths of a mysterious ocean. The movie entwines new storytelling, actual events of H.P. Lovecraft’s life, iconic elements of his writings and literary characters Cthulhu, Shoggoth and more.

A thrilling animated feature for any Lovecraft fan, HOWARD LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM is slated for a late 2017 release across major entertainment distribution platforms and in packaged media from Shout! Factory.

ARCANA STUDIOS presents a film by Sean Patrick O’Reilly. HOWARD LOVECRAFT AND THE FROZEN KINGDOM, based on the bestselling graphic novel series created by Bruce Brown and Dwight L. MacPherson, is written, directed and produced by Sean Patrick O’Reilly; producer, Michelle O’Reilly; art director & senior modeler, Gary Yuen; senior editor, Chris Trinh; CG supervisor, Martin Bastian.

About ARCANA STUDIO

Since its launch in 2004, Arcana has established itself as a successful entertainment company. Producing engaging storytelling with compelling art, Arcana is an innovative leader in the development of intellectual properties across all platforms. Arcana’s library of wholly owned intellectual properties contain well over 5,000 characters that transcend gender, age, and cultural and geographic boundaries. Arcana owns one of the world’s largest libraries of graphic novels.   

In 2012, Arcana opened an animation division to develop and produce it’s content for all platforms including film, television, direct-to-home and digital media. Arcanamation is a full service animation company producing features and TV series based on Arcana’s comics including Pixies, the Howard Lovecraft trilogy and Kagagi. Arcana has a top notch team executive team, dozens of full time experienced employees and is a Canadian company that receives tax credit benefits for content production as well as research and development.

January 19, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Arcana and Shout! Factory announce HP LOVECRAFT AND THE UNDERSEA KINGDOM

Wilson Fisk Builds His New Empire in KINGPIN #1!

Wilson Fisk Builds His New Empire in KINGPIN #1!

New York, NY—January 12^th, 2017 — They say that every villain is the hero of their own story. Yes, Wilson Fisk has done some bad things. Deplorable things. He has cheated the law. He has blackmailed rivals. He has killed. But that’s all in the past now. It’s time for a new beginning. And it begins this February in KINGPIN #1 – the new ongoing series from breakout writer Matthew Rosenberg and Marvel newcomer Ben Torres!

The Kingpin is out for a clean start. Wilson Fisk returns to the city he loves with a new goal in mind—to make his mark as a titan of legitimate industry. First things first though, he’ll need to repair his public image. When Wilson Fisk makes a disgraced journalist an offer she can’t refuse, the spiraling saga of crime and betrayal begins anew. Sure, he’s out for a clean start. How long before his hands get dirty again?

Manhattan’s criminal mastermind returns to the Big Apple with honorable intentions, but no one will remain pure on his climb back to the top! Don’t miss the thrilling crime-noir debut of 2017, when KINGPIN #1 comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere on February 8^th!

KINGPIN #1 (DEC160863)

Written by MATTHEW ROSENBERG

Art by BEN TORRES
Cover by JEFF DEKAL

Variant Covers by BILL SIENKIEWICZ (DEC160864),

BEN TORRES (DEC160866) and SKOTTIE YOUNG (DEC160868)

Connecting Variant by MARCO CHECCHETTO (DEC160865)
Hip-Hop Variant by JULIAN TOTINO TEDESCO (DEC160867)

Action Figure Variant by JOHN TYLER CHRISTOPHER (DEC160869)

FOC – 1/16/17, On-Sale – 02/08/17

January 13, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Wilson Fisk Builds His New Empire in KINGPIN #1!

MARVEL COMICS ANNOUNCES “THE DEFENDERS” BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS AND DAVID MARQUEZ

MARVEL COMICS ANNOUNCES THE DEFENDERS

BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS AND DAVID MARQUEZ

All-New Marvel Comic Series Teams-up Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist

New York, NY—January 11, 2017— The streets of New York’s Hell’s Kitchen have become over run with crime and corruption, and there is only one group of Super Heroes – Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist – who are willing to unshackle themselves from the constraints of the rest of the Marvel Super Hero community and fight the villains no one else is willing to take on. Written by EISNER award-winning writer, Brian Michael Bendis (Civil War II, Jessica Jones, Invincible Iron Man) with artwork by New York Times best-selling artist, David Marquez (Civil War II, Invincible Iron Man), prepare for THE Defenders!

The toughest hard-hitting heroes of the Marvel Universe stand together as a brand new team ready to take down one of the most dominating criminal empires ever to shadow over New York City. But in a city where leaders of violence and death are all vying for dominance, who is the one criminal despot powerful enough to challenge the saviors of Hell’s Kitchen?

“As opposed to other more global or galactic Super Hero groups, the Defenders are very much focused on the streets, on the neighborhoods, on the community,” says SVP, Executive Editor, Tom Brevoort. “Their battles are no less fiercely fought or consequential, but the arena is a very different one, and the stakes more personal. Brian will be building upon the relationships that he established years ago in NEW AVENGERS to create something unique and primary within the Marvel Universe.”

“[THE DEFENDERS] is a smorgasbord of everything I truly love about Marvel Comics,” continues Bendis. “And to keep the team of David [Marquez], Justin [Ponsor], and myself together for another creative challenge is so exciting! We’ve been planning this book for well over a year and we’re so excited to show you what we think the next phase of the gritty marvel streets will have to offer.”

Some of the darkest days await Daredevil, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones, and Iron Fist, but THE DEFENDERS are ready to plant their feet, and fight back-to-back against one of the most epic wars the streets of NYC have ever encountered and stand resolute against an attack so personal that it will challenge our heroes at their very core and everyone they have ever cared about.

This June, the five boroughs have a new front line of defense. But can the collective strength of Daredevil, Luke, Jess, and Iron Fist have what it takes to protect the “Big Apple?” Find out this summer from Marvel Comics’ THE DEFENDERS!

THE DEFENDERS #1

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS

Art by DAVID MARQUEZ
Cover by DAVID MARQUEZ

On-Sale in June!

January 12, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on MARVEL COMICS ANNOUNCES “THE DEFENDERS” BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS AND DAVID MARQUEZ

Superstar Artist Francesco Francavilla Covers MONSTERS UNLEASHED!

Superstar Artist Francesco Francavilla Covers MONSTERS UNLEASHED!

Special Monster Movie Poster Variants Coming to Each Issue

New York, NY—January 12^th, 2016 — Next week…monsters invade the Marvel Universe! And they’re bringing one of the hottest artists in the comic book industry with them! Eisner Award-winning artist Francesco Francavilla lends his pen to a series of upcoming variant covers! Coming to each issue of the upcoming MONSTERS UNLEASHED series, the fan-favorite illustrator brings mighty Marvel monsters to life in the vein of classic monster movie posters! Today, Marvel is pleased to reveal all five FRANCAVILLA 50s MOVIE POSTER VARIANTS – coming to comic shops beginning next week!

1. Monstrom, The Dweller in the Black Swamp! (Monsters Unleashed #1)

2. It Crawls By Night! (Monsters Unleashed #2)

3. Return of the Martian! (Monsters Unleashed #3)

4. Zzutak! The Worst Menace The World Has Ever Known! (Monsters Unleashed #4)

5. The Creature from the Black Bog (Monsters Unleashed #5)

Raining down from the skies, rising from the depths of the oceans and emerging from beneath the very Earth itself – monsters are invading and destroying everything in their path! The only thing that stands in their way is an army of the strongest super heroes in the Marvel Universe! But even they may not be enough to stop these towering titans! It’s all happening in MONSTERS UNLEASHED as the Avengers, the Guardians of the Galaxy, the Champions, the X-Men, the Inhumans and more band together to stop complete and total annihilation!

Don’t miss the oversized MONSTERS UNLEASHED #1 comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere next Wednesday – January 18^th! Read a FREE 11-page preview of the first issue before it hits stands next week.

MONSTERS UNLEASHED #1 (NOV160745)
50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA

Written by CULLEN BUNN

Art & Cover by STEVE MCNIVEN

On-Sale January 18^th

MONSTERS UNLEASHED #2 (DEC160883)

50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (DEC160886)

Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by GREG LAND

On-Sale February 1^st

MONSTERS UNLEASHED #3 (DEC160891)

50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (DEC160894)

Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by LEINIL YU
On Sale in February!

MONSTERS UNLEASHED #4 (JAN170907)

50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (JAN170908)

Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by SALVADOR LARROCA

On Sale in March!

MONSTERS UNLEASHED #5 (JAN170914)

50s Movie Poster Variant by FRANCESCO FRANCAVILLA (JAN170915)

Written by CULLEN BUNN
Art & Cover by ADAM KUBERT

On Sale in March!

January 12, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Superstar Artist Francesco Francavilla Covers MONSTERS UNLEASHED!

A Sith Unleashed in Your First Look at STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1!

A Sith Unleashed in Your First Look at STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1!

On Sale February 1^st!

New York, NY – January 9^th, 2016 – This February, hatred has a new face. But first, Marvel Entertainment & Lucasfilm Ltd. are pleased to present your first look inside STAR WARS: #1 – the next thrilling Star Wars limited series comes to comic shops and digital devices everywhere! Blockbuster writer Cullen Bunn (Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe, Monsters Unleashed) and artist Luke Ross (Star Wars: The Force Awakens Adaptation) take you inside the mind of Darth Sidious’ star pupil as he embarks on a personal quest – with deadly consequences!

Bred on hate, fear, and anger. Steeped in the ways of darkness…trained to kill. Darth Maul’s time as an apprentice to Darth Sidious has long been cloaked in shadows, but at last we will reveal his tale of revenge. His master tells him to embrace his anger, but to stay hidden and bide his time. Maul has waited long enough – his patience growing ever thinner. His moment to step into the light has finally come. Prepare for a tale of unbridled rage as Darth Maul readies one of his first encounters with his mortal enemy…with the Jedi.

Go inside the mind of the fan-favorite character as Bunn and Ross bring you the highly anticipated STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1 – available February 1^st!

For more info, visit Marvel.com for a full interview with writer Cullen Bunn.

STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1 (of 5) (DEC161069)

Written by CULLEN BUNN

Art by LUKE ROSS
Cover by ROD REIS

Variant Covers by RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE (DEC161071)

And MARK BROOKS (DEC161072)

Action Figure Variant by JOHN TYLER CHRISTOPHER (DEC161073)

Star Wars 40^th Anniversary Variant by TERRY DODSON (DEC161074)

Movie Variant (DEC161076) and Animation Variant (DEC161075) Also Available

Reis Sketch Variant Also Available (DEC161070)

FOC – 1/9/17, On-Sale – 2/1/17

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January 12, 2017 Posted by Jason Latham | Comic Books, News, Star Wars | News, Press Release | Comments Off on A Sith Unleashed in Your First Look at STAR WARS: DARTH MAUL #1!

BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER Returns For All-New Series!

BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER Returns For All-New Series!

The Fan-Favorite Character Goes Solo in April

New York, NY—January 9^th, 2017 — This April, one of the most controversial characters in Marvel history returns to don the mask (and hoodie!) once more. Today, Marvel is pleased to announce BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1 – the new series from New York Times Bestselling creators Peter David (Amazing Spider-Man, Spider-Man 2099) and Mark Bagley (Ultimate Spider-Man, All-New X-Men)! That’s right, Ben Reilly is webslinging his way back into comic shops everywhere later this year and he’s bringing two of the most accomplished & beloved Spider-Man creators of all-time with him! Only question is – will it be as a hero…or a villain?

It was the twist that shocked the world. Ben Reilly had returned, but not as he once was. Twisted and manipulated by the villainous Jackal, the fallen clone is out to break the cycle, and reclaim his destiny. Not as Peter Parker’s clone – but as his own man. Will suiting up once more as the Scarlet Spider be enough to outrun his personal demons? All while being able to stay one step ahead of the man hunting him – Kaine Parker – the former Scarlet Spider?!

“This book is not your usual Spider-Fare,” says Executive Editor, VP of Content & Digital Publishing Nick Lowe. “Peter David and Mark Bagley are taking this character into uncharted territory that’s both rip-roaring and troubling.”

His old life is over. It’s time for a new beginning. But can you ever truly outrun your past? Find out as the iconic fan-favorite character returns to the fore once again in BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1 – coming this April!

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BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER #1
Written by PETER DAVID

Art & Cover by MARK BAGLEY

On-Sale in April!

January 11, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on BEN REILLY: THE SCARLET SPIDER Returns For All-New Series!

MARVEL LAUNCHES THE SOPHOMORE YEAR OF “MARVEL 101”

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MARVEL LAUNCHES THE SOPHOMORE YEAR OF “MARVEL 101”

Original Marvel video series presents exciting short-form educational tour of the Marvel Universe with a concentration on Marvel’s MONSTERS UNLEASHED

New York, NY—January 11, 2017— Welcome back, class. Please take your seats. Class is now in session. Since its inception, Marvel Comics has been defined by hard-hitting action, engrossing story lines and an ever-expanding library of some of the most heroic and complex characters of all time! Returning today, Marvel is excited to continue its original video series devoted to giving fans an educational deep dive into some of the most iconic Marvel characters, you may, or may not be, familiar with. Start taking notes – this is season 2 of MARVEL 101!

Starting today, with new episodes made available every Tuesday on Marvel.com and on Marvel’s YouTube page, fans will be introduced to one-minute episodes that offer fans a background crash course on some of the fiercest Marvel monsters all part of the gigantic Marvel series, Monsters Unleashed.

Since its launch, MARVEL 101 has provided fans with informative videos spotlighting the history of Marvel’s top heroes, and now is your chance to explore the Marvel Universe even more as MARVEL 101 enters its sophomore year and introduces Marvel fans to the mighty Marvel monsters that have be stomping through the Marvel universe since its inception.

Every Tuesday, MARVEL 101’s second season will continue to explore the history of Marvel’s greatest monsters as they rampage across the Marvel universe and battle the heroes who have sworn to protect innocents from harm.

With MARVEL 101 this is your chance to quickly explore new corners of the Marvel Universe you may be unfamiliar with, or simply take a refresher course on some of the most incredible entries within the Marvel library. Be sure to take notes – there may be a pop quiz.

January 11, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on MARVEL LAUNCHES THE SOPHOMORE YEAR OF “MARVEL 101”

A New Era Begins for the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY!

A New Era Begins for the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY!

New York, NY—January 10^th, 2017 — This summer, your favorite ragtag group of spacefaring heroes are blasting off with a historic new beginning! New adventures, new creative team, high adventure in deep space! Marvel is pleased to announce ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1 – a new ongoing series launching this May from blockbuster creators Gerry Duggan (Deadpool, Uncanny Avengers) and Aaron Kuder (Death of X)!

Star-Lord. Gamora. Drax. Rocket Raccoon. Groot. Reunited and it feels so good! After an extended stay on this mudball we call Earth, the Guardians of the Galaxy return to the stars! Yet, as this band of misfits reunites, they’ll find they’ve undergone some…changes. Drax the Destroyer has sworn off violence. Groot isn’t regenerating as he once was. This team better get it together, because it won’t be long before they find themselves in a war between the Elders of the Universe. One that will force them to pull off the biggest heist they’ve ever attempted – literally!

“I cannot tell you how excited I am for this book!,” exclaims series Editor Jordan D. White. “Gerry and Aaron have been working on this puppy in secret for months, and they’ve cooked up a series that will be the spine of the Marvel cosmic universe, while still being rooted in the great Guardians characters we love. And maybe even a surprise addition to the team eventually, too…”

Exciting alien worlds! Thrilling action! The mysteries of deep space! Blast off with Duggan and Kuder as they explore the furthest corners of the Marvel Universe! This May, it’s a fresh start, and it’s coming at you in ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1!

ALL-NEW GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #1
Written by GERRY DUGGAN

Art & Cover by AARON KUDER & IVE SVORCINA

Launching this May!

January 10, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on A New Era Begins for the GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY!

MARVEL STUDIOS DOCTOR STRANGE on Digital HD Feb. 14 and Blu-ray Feb. 28

BRING HOME THE MYSTIFYING, MIND-BENDING JOURNEY

MARVEL STUDIOS’ “DOCTOR STRANGE”

on Digital HD Feb. 14 and Blu-ray™ Feb. 28

Own the critically acclaimed blockbuster with 80+ minutes

of extras highlighting the award-winning cast

!

BURBANK, Calif., January 6, 2017 — Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange,” the story of Dr. Stephen Strange, Master of the Mystic Arts, has mesmerized both audiences and critics, pulling in more than $658.3 million at the worldwide box office to date and earning a 90% critics consensus on Rotten Tomatoes. The biggest single-character introduction in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it also carries on Marvel Studios’ winning streak as the 14th consecutive MCU film to debut at #1 at the domestic box office.

On Feb. 14, “Doctor Strange” fans can bring home the critically acclaimed blockbuster early on Digital HD/3D and Disney Movies Anywhere, or on Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray, Digital SD, DVD and On-Demand on Feb. 28. The Blu-ray and Digital releases come packaged with over 80 minutes of fascinating, never-before-seen bonus materials, including five behind-the-scenes featurettes, five deleted scenes, hilarious outtakes, part two of the comical mockumentary “Team Thor,” audio commentary, and an exclusive look at the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The film boasts an award-winning cast, including Benedict Cumberbatch (“The Imitation Game,” “Black Mass”) as Dr. Stephen Strange, Chiwetel Ejiofor (“12 Years a Slave,” “Triple 9”) as Mordo, Rachel McAdams (“Spotlight,” “Southpaw”) as Dr. Christine Palmer, Benedict Wong (“The Martian,” “Prometheus”) as Wong, Michael Stuhlbarg (“A Serious Man,” “Steve Jobs”) as Dr. Nicodemus West, Benjamin Bratt (“Traffic,” “Piñero”) as Jonathan Pangborn, and Scott Adkins (“El Gringo,” “The Expendables 2”) as Lucian/Strong Zealot, with Mads Mikkelsen (“The Hunt,” “Casino Royale”) as Kaecilius and Academy Award® winner Tilda Swinton (2007 Best Supporting Actress, “Michael Clayton”; “Julia”) as The Ancient One.

Bonus Features (Bonus features may vary by retailer. The DVD does not include any bonus materials.):

DIGITAL HD & BLU-RAY:

Featurettes
- A Strange Transformation – Open your eye to a new dimension of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and see how the filmmakers brought one of comic books’ greatest characters to life.
- Strange Company – Find out what it’s like for the cast to work on a Marvel film, and how Director Scott Derrickson engineered one of the most ambitious, imaginative films ever.
- The Fabric of Reality – Take a closer look at the movie’s extraordinary sets, meticulously crafted costumes and amazingly detailed production elements.
- Across Time and Space – Explore the countless hours of dance and fight choreography the actors endured in preparation for their physically demanding roles.
- The Score-cerer Supreme – Join Composer Michael Giacchino and a full orchestra during live recording sessions, and experience the movie’s mind-bending music.
Marvel Studios Phase 3 Exclusive Look – Get an early peek at Marvel’s spectacular upcoming films, including Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Thor: Ragnarok, Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War.
Team Thor: Part 2 – See more of the hilarious partnership between Thor and his roommate Darryl in this satirical short.
Deleted Scenes
- Strange Meets Daniel Drumm
- Kaecilius Searches for Answers
- The Kamar-Taj Courtyard
- Making Contact
- Lost in Kathmandu
Gag Reel
Audio Commentary by Director Scott Derrickson

DIGITAL EXCLUSIVE:

Through the Keyhole: The Science of the MCU – Discover how Marvel grounds all its films in real science, and explore the connection between science, magic and imagination.

From Marvel Studios comes Doctor Strange, the story of world-famous neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), whose life changes forever after a horrific car accident renders his hands useless. When traditional medicine fails him, he travels to the remote Kamar-Taj in search of a cure, but instead discovers the mystical arts and becomes a powerful sorcerer battling dark forces bent on destroying our reality.

Scott Derrickson (“Deliver Us from Evil,” “Sinister”) is directing with Kevin Feige, p.g.a., producing. Louis D’Esposito, Stephen Broussard, Victoria Alonso, Charles Newirth and Stan Lee serve as executive producers. The screenplay was written by Jon Spaihts (“The Darkest Hour,” “Prometheus”) and Scott Derrickson & C. Robert Cargill (“Sinister,” “Sinister 2”).

The talented team of filmmakers assembled for “Doctor Strange” includes Ben Davis (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”), cinematographer; Charles Wood (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”), production designer; Alexandra Byrne (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”), costume designer; Wyatt Smith (“Into the Woods,” “Ricki and the Flash”) and Sabrina Plisco (“Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow,” “Charlotte’s Web”), editors; Stephane Ceretti (Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Thor: The Dark World”), visual effects supervisor; and Paul Corbould (Marvel’s “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”), special effects supervisor.

DISC SPECIFICATIONS (applies to film content only):

PRODUCT SKUs: Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack (Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy),

Blu-ray 2D Combo Pack (Blu-ray, DVD, Digital Copy),

DVD, Digital HD/3D/SD and On-Demand

RUN TIME: Feature run time is approximately 115 minutes

RATED: PG-13 for sci-fi violence and action throughout, and an intense crash sequence

ASPECT RATIO: Blu-ray 3D = 1080p High Definition Widescreen (2.39:1/1.90:1)

Blu-ray = 1080p High Definition Widescreen (2.39:1)

DVD = 2.39:1

AUDIO: Blu-ray = English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio,

Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital Language Tracks

DVD = English, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital Language Tracks,

English 2.0 Descriptive Audio

SUBTITLES: English SDH, Spanish and French

January 6, 2017 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on MARVEL STUDIOS DOCTOR STRANGE on Digital HD Feb. 14 and Blu-ray Feb. 28

FOREST WHITAKER TO APPEAR IN SEASON 3 OF ‘STAR WARS REBELS’

FOREST WHITAKER TO APPEAR IN SEASON 3 OF ‘STAR WARS REBELS‘

Academy Award-winning actor Forest Whitaker, who stars as Rebel freedom fighter Saw Gerrera in “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” will join the cast of the hit animated series “Star Wars Rebels,” which is set in a time period just prior to the events of “Rogue One.” Whitaker will reprise his role as Gerrera, providing the voice of the character as he makes his debut on “Star Wars Rebels: Ghosts of Geonosis, Parts One and Two” premiering SATURDAY, JANUARY 7 (8:30-9:30 p.m. EST), on Disney XD.

SG_liveAction2

Photo credit: ©Lucasfilm Ltd.*

Click here to view a featurette on Saw Gerrera.

“It‘s an incredible honor to have Forest Whitaker play Saw in ‘Rebels,‘” says series executive producer Dave Filoni. “Forest did a great job at capturing Saw in a way that is a bit mad, a bit crazed, a bit afraid, but also a bit sympathetic. He sees something coming, but no one will take action before it’s too late.”

The character of Saw Gerrera was first introduced in the TV series “Star Wars: The Clone Wars“ (2008-2015) as a guerrilla fighter for his home planet. Created by George Lucas, Saw received training from the Jedi – Anakin Skywalker, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Ahsoka Tano – and served as an early harbinger of the Rebel Alliance, an assortment of disparate groups coming together to fight for a common cause.

December 20, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | News, Star Wars | News, Press Release | Comments Off on FOREST WHITAKER TO APPEAR IN SEASON 3 OF ‘STAR WARS REBELS’

[FINALE TRAILER] ‘BATMAN – The Telltale Series’ Season Finale Arrives This Week

.

‘BATMAN – The Telltale Series’

Season Finale Trailer Sets Stage for Final Showdown

Season Finale Available Starting Tuesday Dec 13th;

Episode One Currently Free on Steam

Citizens of Gotham,

Today we would like to share the season finale launch trailer for BATMAN – The Telltale Series Episode 5: ‘City of Light’.

The final of five episodes in the season, Episode 5: ‘City of Light’ will be available digitally worldwide starting Tuesday December 13th on PC from the Telltale Online Store, Steam, and other digital distribution services, on the Xbox Games Store for Xbox One® and Xbox 360, and on the PlayStation®Network for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3. The episode will be available the same day for compatible iOS devices via the App Store, and for compatible Android-based devices via Google Play.

In Episode 5, the leader of the Children of Arkham prepares to execute the final act of a plan to destroy the Wayne family name, and the people closest to you are in their path of vengeance. Can Batman’s ultimate secret be kept – his very identity – when it is causing chaos and death in Gotham? The fate of the Wayne family and of the city itself rests on your choices. What will you do? How far will you go? Which mask will you wear?

Special note for the finale: Players will begin this episode in very different places depending on where they chose to go in the third act of Episode 4.

Additionally, Episode 1: ‘Realm of Shadows’ is now FREE to download for PC via Steam.

The series is also available to purchase at retailers in North America and Europe as a special Season Pass Disc, which includes the first of five episodes in the season, and grants access to the subsequent four episodes as they become available for download via online updates.

Rendered to look like a living, breathing comic book, Telltale’s vision of Batman features an award-winning cast of talent, including Troy Baker in the role of Bruce Wayne, Travis Willingham as Harvey Dent, Erin Yvette as Vicki Vale, Enn Reitel as Alfred Pennyworth, Murphy Guyer as Lieutenant James Gordon, Richard McGonagle as Carmine Falcone, Jason Spisak as Oswald Cobblepot, Dave Fennoy as Lucius Fox, Anthony Ingruber as John Doe, and Laura Bailey as Selina Kyle.

BATMAN – The Telltale Series Episode 5: City of Light is rated M (Mature) for Violence, Blood and Gore, and Language by the ESRB. The series is published by Telltale Games in partnership with Warner Bros.

For more information on Telltale Games, and more news surrounding the series, visit the official website, Facebook, and follow Telltale Games on Twitter @TelltaleGames.

###

WB GAMES LOGO, WB SHIELD: ™ & © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

(s15)

December 12, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News, Tech, Video Games | News, Press Release | Comments Off on [FINALE TRAILER] ‘BATMAN – The Telltale Series’ Season Finale Arrives This Week

Hot Toys is SNEAKY with their very limited new Iron Man figure!

With its built-in cloaking system, the Mark XV “Sneaky” armor is among the most unique armors in Tony Stark’s “House Party Protocol” in Iron Man 3. Today Sideshow has put up for order Hot Toys’ special inspired take on the armor, livening up the original’s cool dark gray color scheme to give it the Iron Man classic red-and-gold finish which first appeared in the Iron Man 3 concept art of this armor.

The Retro Armor Version of the 1/6th scale Mark XV collectible figure has the same sleek form factor as the movie version, but is given the iconic red-and-gold Iron Man coloration with newly painted and electroplated parts to mimic the original concept art design. This figure features a meticulously crafted armor equipped with LED light-up functions on eyes, arc reactor and repulsors, the unique asymmetrical forearm design, plus a specially designed dynamic figure stand and gold colored name plate.

Only available in selected markets, this exclusive Mark XV 1/6th scale figure is sure to sell out fast but it is available right now on Sideshow’s site!

The House Party can’t start without Sneaky!

Hot Toys – MMS396 – Iron Man 3 – 1/6th scale Sneaky Mark XV (Retro Armor Version) Collectible Figure Specification (Hot Toys Exclusive)
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

Special features of the 1/6th scale Sneaky Mark XV (Retro Armor Version) Collectible Figure:

– Based on the construction of Sneaky (Mark XV) from Iron Man 3

– Red-and-gold painted and electroplated armor emulating the original concept art design:

n Multiple layers and shades of red colored painting on armor

n Five (5) gold chrome armor parts throughout the body

– Approximately 31 cm tall

– Over 30 points of articulations

– LED-lighted eyes and circular-shaped arc reactor on chest (white light, battery operated)

– LED-lighted left forearm (battery operated)

– Asymmetrical forearm design

– Removable chest armor to reveal interior mechanical design

– Shin armor can be opened to reveal interior mechanical design

– Three (3) pairs of interchangeable hands including:

– One (1) pair of hands with articulated fingers and light-up repulsor (white light, battery operated)

– One (1) pair of fists

– One (1) pair of repulsor-firing hands (white light, battery operated)

– Articulations on waist armor allowing flexible movement

December 9, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Sideshow Collectibles | Comments Off on Hot Toys is SNEAKY with their very limited new Iron Man figure!

Blair Witch Arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD, Digital HD, and On Demand on January 3

You heard Now Playing Podcast’s review of the film, now you can pre-order it on Blu-ray!

There’s Something Evil Hiding in These Woods

The Sequel to the Game-Changing Horror Phenomenon

Arrives on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital HD January 3 from Lionsgate

SANTA MONICA, CA (November 1, 2016) – Nearly two decades after documentary filmmakers vanished in the groundbreaking film The Blair Witch Project, an investigative team searches for them and the truth behind their disappearance in Blair Witch, arriving on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD, Digital HD, and On Demand January 3 from Lionsgate. From acclaimed filmmakers Adam Wingard and Simon Barrett (You’re Next), Blair Witch stars James Allen McCune (TV’s “The Walking Dead”), Callie Hernandez (La La Land), Brandon Scott (TV’s “Grey’s Anatomy”), Valorie Curry (American Pastoral), Corbin Reid (Words with Girls), and Wes Robinson (The Genius Code). An official selection of the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival, this much-buzzed-about film will haunt viewers far beyond the closing credits.

A group of college students venture into the Black Hills Forest in Maryland to uncover the mysteries surrounding the disappearance of their friend’s sister, who many believe is connected to the legend of the Blair Witch. At first the group is hopeful, especially when a pair of locals offer to act as guides through the dark and winding woods, but as the endless night wears on, the group is visited by a menacing presence. Slowly, they begin to realize the legend is all too real and more sinister than they could have imagined.

Get over 3 hours of bonus features on the Blair Witch Blu-ray and Digital HD, including an audio commentary with director Adam Wingard and writer Simon Barrett, the “House of Horrors: Exploring the Set” featurette, and a 6-part Making-of documentary, “Never Ending Night: The Making of Blair Witch”. The DVD release includes the audio commentary and the “House of Horrors: Exploring the Set” featurette. The Blu-ray Disc of Blair Witch will feature a Dolby Atmos soundtrack remixed specifically for the home theater environment to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. Blair Witch will be available on Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.95, respectively.

BLU-RAY/ DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentary with Director Adam Wingard and Writer Simon Barrett

· Never Ending Night: The Making of Blair Witch (6-Part Documentary)

1. “Primal Fear: Story Origins”

2. “Ambiguous Loss: The Cast”

3. “P.O.V.: On Location”

4. “Trapped in the Time Loop: Editing”

5. “Distorted Reality: Music and Sound Design”

6. “The Reveal”

· “House of Horrors: Exploring the Set” Featurette

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

· Audio Commentary with Director Adam Wingard and Writer Simon Barrett

· “House of Horrors: Exploring the Set” Featurette

PROGRAM INFORMATION

Year of Production: 2016

Type: Theatrical Release

Rating: R for language, terror and some disturbing images.

Genre: Horror

Closed Captioned: NA

Subtitles: Spanish and English SDH

Feature Run Time: 89 Minutes

BD Format: 1080p High Definition, 16×9 Widescreen (1.85:1)

DVD Format: 16×9 Widescreen (1.85:1)

BD Audio: English Dolby Atmos, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Audio Optimized for Late Night Listening, English Descriptive Audio

DVD Audio: English 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Audio, English Descriptive Audio

November 1, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Blair Witch Arrives on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD, Digital HD, and On Demand on January 3

Go Rogue! Order Your Star Wars Rogue One Toys Online Now!

Why go out late on a work/school night, stand in the cold, and brave the crowds only to be met by disappointment when the guy in front of you takes the last Deathtrooper Black Series figure?

There is another way–order online! Entertainment Earth just put up all the new Rogue One toys for order–and here’s a directory for each!

LEGO

LEGO Star Wars 75121 Constraction Imperial Death Trooper
LEGO Star Wars 75120 Constraction K-2SO
LEGO Star Wars 75119 Constraction Sergeant Jyn Erso
LEGO Star Wars 75152 Imperial Assault Hovertank
LEGO Star Wars 75153 AT-ST Walker
LEGO Star Wars 75154 TIE Striker
LEGO Star Wars 75155 Rebel U-Wing Fighter
LEGO Star Wars 75156 Krennic’s Imperial Shuttle

Hasbro Black Series 6-Inch Figures

Star Wars The Black Series Jyn Erso 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series Cassian Andor Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series K-2SO 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars Black Series Death Trooper 6-Inch Action Figure
Star Wars The Black Series Kylo Ren Unmasked 6-Inch Figure
Star Wars Rogue One 3 3/4-Inch Action Figure 2-Packs Wave 1
Star Wars The Black Series 6-Inch Action Figures Wave 7 Case

Hasbro 3.75-inch Figures

Star Wars Rogue One Sergeant Jyn Erso (Eadu) Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One K-2SO Action Figure
Star Wars Rebels Kanan Jarrus (Stormtrooper Disguise) Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Ground Crew Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Rebels Sabine Wren Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Sergeant Jyn Erso Deluxe Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Imperial Death Trooper Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Nerf Glowstrike Darts
Star Wars Rogue One 3 3/4-Inch Action Figures Wave 1 Case

Funko POP! Figures

Jakks Pacific Big Figs

Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 20-Inch Action Figure Wave 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One 31-Inch Stormtrooper Action Figure
Star Wars Rogue One 31-Inch Death Trooper Action Figure

Hasbro Galactic Heroes

Star Wars Galactic Heroes Rivals Jedi vs. Sith Set

Hasbro Ships and Vehicles

Star Wars Rogue One Class I Vehicles Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hero Electronic Action Figures Wave 1
Star Wars Rogue One Class II Vehicles Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Value Vehicles Wave 1

Role Play Toys and Masks

Micro Machine Sets

Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines Death Star Playset
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines DX Vehicles Wave 4 Case
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines DX Vehicles Wave 4 Set
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines 3-Packs Wave 5
Star Wars Rogue One MicroMachines 3-Packs Wave 5 Set

Titanium Ships and Helmets

Star Wars: The Black Series Die-Cast Metal Vehicles Wave 5
Star Wars: The Black Series Die-Cast Metal Vehicles Wave 6

Board Games

Star Wars Edition Monopoly Open and Play Game
Star Wars Trivial Pursuit Game
Star Wars Operation Game
Star Wars Trouble Game

Hot Wheels

Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 2 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 3 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 4 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Char. Car 2016 Mix 5 Case
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 1
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 2
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 3
Star Wars Rogue 1 Hot Wheels Char. Car 2-Pack 2016 Mix 4
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Starships Mix 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Hot Wheels Starships Mix 2 Case

Hasbro Interactech Figures

Star Wars Rogue One Electronic Stormtrooper Action Figure

Other Toys

Star Wars: The Force Awakens RC Radio Control BB-8 Droid
Star Wars Rogue One Rebel U-Wing Fighter Vehicle
Star Wars Rogue One Rip N Go BB-8 Beeping and Moving Droid
Star Wars Rogue One TIE Striker Vehicle
Star Wars TFA Hero Series 12-Inch Action Figures Wave 6 Case
Star Wars Play-Doh AT-AT Attack Can Heads Set

Housewares

Star Wars: Rogue One 16 oz. Laser Decal Glass 2-Pack
Star Wars: Rogue One 18 oz. Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Star Wars: Rogue One Large Tin Tote
Star Wars: Rogue 1 20 oz. Ceramic Mug

September 29, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Books, Comic Books, Movies, News, Star Wars | Entertainment Earth, George Lucas, Hasbro, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Toys | Comments Off on Go Rogue! Order Your Star Wars Rogue One Toys Online Now!

NOW LIVE – Hasbro’s SDCC 2016 Exclusive Toys

Up for order right now are Hasbro’s 2016 San Diego Comic-Con Exclusive toys!

If you want them, read the rest of this article later. Go now to Hasbro’s order page and try to get yours!

Hasbro updated their Hasbro Toy Shop site in the early hours of Aug 9, 2016 listing all the SDCC exclusive toys that are now available. They listed them as “Out of Stock” so orders were held until the allotted time. Many of our listeners let us know they thought they had missed out on this sale and have already gone to eBay.

But now the items are online! Up for sale are:

Star Wars:

~~Black Series 6-Inch Obi-Wan Kenobi Pack~~ Sold Out at 10:22 am CST
~~Black Series 6-Inch Kylo Ren Pack~~ Sold Out at 10:49 am CST
~~Black Series 6-Inch Sergeant Jyn Erso Pack~~ Sold Out at 10:10 am CST

Marvel:

The Collector’s Vault 3.75-inch Legends Figure Set (with Howard the Duck!!)
~~The Raft 6-inch Legends Figure Set~~ Sold Out at 12:50pm CST

Transformers

Generations Titans Return Titan Force Set
Generation Titans Return Titan Class Fortress Maximus (Convention Edition)
Evolution Soundwave (Convention Exclusive Featuring Tablet Mode)

Other

My Little Pony DIscord and Fluttershy Set
Micronauts Comic Con Set
Visionaries: Knight of the Magical Light Mighty Muggs
Magic the Gathering 20166 SDCC Exclusive Set
Yo-Kai Watch Jewelnyan

So hurry to Hasbro Toy Shop and get your orders in fast! Some of these products (Magic the Gathering, all 3 Star Wars figures, and the 6-Inch Marvel Legends set for sure) won’t last long!

Good Luck

August 9, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | Captain America, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Exclusives, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Hulk, Iron Man, Magic: The Gathering, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvel Legends, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, My Little Pony, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, San Diego Comic-Con, sci-fi, SDCC 2016, Spider-Man, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Star Wars: Rogue One, Toys, Transformers | Comments Off on NOW LIVE – Hasbro’s SDCC 2016 Exclusive Toys

Samsung Partners with Warner Bros. Pictures for Suicide Squad VR Experience – Premiering at SDCC

52bd85acb6f44f2ed54f4905d41cd5fc Today, Samsung announced its partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures to bring exclusive virtual reality (VR) content and experiences to fans of the highly anticipated film Suicide Squad.

The VR content, which Samsung will debut at Co
mic-Con 2016 along with other Suicide Squad-themed immersive experiences, transports viewers into a scene from the film and features their favorite characters like Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), Deadshot (Will Smith) and Katana (Karen Fukuhara).

Using Samsung Gear VR powered by Oculus, the VR content will debut at San Diego Comic-Con on July 21. It will transport fans into the world of Suicide Squad, experiencing what it’s like being a member of the Squad and watching their favorite characters, like Harley Quinn, Deadshot and Katana, in a scene from the film. It will be available on August 5 on Samsung VR, the brand’s premium virtual reality content service.

“Suicide Squad is one of the most anticipated films of the year and we’re thrilled to team up with Warner Bros. in this innovative way,” said Marc Mathieu, Samsung Electronics America’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Connecting with fans through immersive VR and 360 storytelling and breakthrough experiences gives Samsung yet another opportunity to explore how our technology can enhance popular culture.”

Gene Garlock, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Promotional Alliances and Partnerships, Warner Bros. Pictures, stated, “We’re absolutely delighted to be working with Samsung Electronics via such a broad and inventive partnership. Our collective aim is to reward fans of the property both in the consumer market and by giving them the chance to immerse themselves in a virtual environment alongside the Suicide Squad characters in a most realistic and exciting way.”

Samsung will provide fans exclusive content and experiences throughout the summer, including:

Nationwide Retail Promotion

Fans who purchase a Samsung Galaxy tablet* at leading retailers, will receive two tickets to see Suicide Squad when it opens in theaters August 5. The national retail promotion will run from July 15 through August 20, or while supplies last. For more information and a list of participating retailers, please visit SamsungPromotions.com/SuicideSquad.

San Diego Comic-Con

At San Diego Comic-Con from July 21 through 24, Samsung will help bring the film to life by transforming the Samsung Experience into a real-life Suicide Squad experience. The Belle Reve penitentiary, the high security prison in which the Suicide Squad themselves are held, will be recreated in the space and fans will have the chance to take part in immersive film-themed experiences, such as getting a custom tattoo in Harley Quinn’s tattoo parlor.

Attendees will have the option to ‘Join the Squad’, an interactive feature which enables them to create their own Suicide Squad character and generate a short video of themselves to share on their social channels. Fans can then create their own personalized skulls using the icon generator to live print them on their own exclusive t-shirt. In addition to the exclusive VR content debuting at Comic-Con, cast members will make an appearance in the space.

US Premiere

Samsung will celebrate the movie as an official partner for the U.S. premiere of Suicide Squad on August 1 in New York City, including the after-party. Samsung will create interactive experiences throughout the space to give attendees a chance to immerse themselves into the film using Samsung technology. Select Galaxy owners will also get exclusive red carpet access and a chance to see the film first.

Programming at Samsung 837

To coincide with the movie’s world premiere in New York City, Samsung 837, the brand’s experiential flagship where technology and culture collide in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, will feature special Suicide Squad VR content in the flagship’s VR Tunnel throughout the week of August 1.

*Qualifying devices are: Samsung Galaxy Tab A 10.1, Samsung Galaxy Tab S2, Samsung Galaxy View and Samsung Galaxy Tab ProS

July 15, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News | News, Press Release | Comments Off on Samsung Partners with Warner Bros. Pictures for Suicide Squad VR Experience – Premiering at SDCC

Gentle Giant Daredevil Jumbo Figure Cancelled? Is This Line in Trouble?

Gentle-Giant-Jumbo-Secret-Wars-Daredevil-Figure-006 Has Gentle Giant’s Jumbo Daredevil figure been cancelled? It sure seems that way.

Their 12-inch Daredevil figure was announced in October, 2015. I immediately pre-ordered from Big Bad Toy Store, anxious to not miss out on any of these Secret Wars replicas – 12-inch reproductions made from scans of Mattel’s original ’80s figures.

However today I received notice from BBTS my order was cancelled. The reason? This figure is not being made! The full text read:

Hello,

We have been informed by the manufacturer that they will not be producing the GG10720 12″ Daredevil (Secret Wars) . Unfortunately this means we must cancel our preorders for this item. We apologize for the inconvenience and greatly appreciate your understanding. If this item is re-solicited in the future, we will be sure to publish it on our website once again.

We are disappointed our vendor is unable to fulfill this item and apologize again for the inconvenience. Thank you for your continued business.

Sincerely,

BBTS Customer Care

There have not been any new Jumbo Marvel figures announced for several months. While Gentle Giant has two DC Comics based Jumbo Figures as 2016 San Diego Comic-Con exclusives, Marvel collectors only have some mini Secret Wars bobbleheads to buy.

Is this the first sign of the end of Gentle Giant’s Marvel Jumbo Figure line? We have reached out to Gentle Giant for comment, but as of this post we have not heard back.

If we don’t hear back before, we have an interview scheduled with Gentle Giant next week at SDCC, so we’ll be sure to get the details then!

Follow all the SDCC Marvel Collecting news at MarveliciousToys.com

July 14, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | 1980s, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Daredevil, Enertainment, Gentle Giant, Jumbo Figures, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, News, Pre-Order, Secret Wars, Toys | Comments Off on Gentle Giant Daredevil Jumbo Figure Cancelled? Is This Line in Trouble?

A New Voice Joins Now Playing Podcast

Now Playing Podcast is getting a new host; one whose voice will sound familiar to longtime Venganza Media listeners. Justin Kozisek, a host and contributor to Marvelicious Toys and Star Wars Action News, will add Now Playing duties to his plate for some upcoming, unannounced (that means it’s a secret) shows.

Kozisek becomes the seventh member of the rotating panel, and although he’s primarily known for his collecting and customizing knowledge, listeners have heard him offer film critique during movie segments on Marvelicious Toys, a show that he has hosted since its launch in 2010.

A fan of indie comedies, Kozisek ranked Wet Hot American Summer, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and Dazed & Confused among his favorites, although he can find reasons to love films of every genre.

“I’m a ‘try anything once’ kind of guy and will give almost any movie a chance,” he said. “I look at movies as entertainment first and art second, then based on what a film is trying to accomplish I adjust my outlook accordingly.”

“I very rarely hate a movie and when I love a movie it’s because it earned it!”

Kozisek is also a professional industrial designer with experience in model making, drafting, special FX and latex make-up design. He has created album artwork for hundreds of bands, PC and Nintendo games. More than a fan of films, Kozisek’s design background has led to him working on several. He was creative director on the documentary There Will Be No Stay, also designing its movie poster. He also was a graphic designer on indie film No Resolution.

“All of this adds up to me being infatuated by the treatment of products in films,” he said. “If an item like Pepsi pops up in a movie today we all know that it was paid for, but I enjoy catching a glimpse of things that were supposed to be obscured in older movies (before the tie-in game was afoot). I love it when someone like Tarantino makes a brand for his movie universe – Apple Cigarettes is a great example.”

Movie making is a family affair for Kozisek. His wife Chevy is a producer and make-up artist with work ranging from horror films to music videos. She has done both studio and FX make-up. Her effects work can be seen in April Showers, a film about a school shooting directed by Columbine survivor Andrew Robinson. Chevy also produced the 2016 drama No Resolution.

When asked about his favorite Now Playing Podcast retrospective, Kozisek pointed to the 2010 A Nightmare on Elm Street series, which is well known among fans for including songs from an obscure “Freddy’s Greatest Hits” album (featuring a surprisingly game Robert Englund).
“I think that retrospective really helped solidify what Now Playing is all about,” he said. “I think you’d be hard pressed to find anyone that truly loves all of those movies, but the shows really made revisiting them a lot of fun.”

As do the fans. Kozisek credited Now Playing’s longevity (the show will turn 10 next year) and the popularity of Venganza’s podcasts to its listenership and the community they’ve formed on social media and the show forums. The podcast format, he said, creates a shared experience, much like watching a film you own on television.

“There’s something comforting about knowing you are watching the same movie that other people are watching, and Now Playing creates a ‘couch’ for people to gather and enjoy the experience together.”

Hear Justin’s First Now Playing Review – Short Circuit – at NowPlayingPodcast.com

June 30, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Podcasts | Enertainment, Film, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Press Release, Star Wars Action News | Comments Off on A New Voice Joins Now Playing Podcast

Pre-Order Alert: Mezco SDCC Exclusive Captain America One:12 Collective Figure

Mezco’s SDCC 2016 exclusives are up for pre-order now!

In addition to a Dawn of Justice Armored Batman and a plush Thundercats Snarf, they have their Classic Captain America One:12 Collective 6-inch figure. If you’re not going to SDCC this year, or if you just want to guarantee yours, you can order it now!

One:12 Collective Captain America: Deluxe Classic Version Con Exclusive – Mezco Toyz

Featuring over 32 articulation points, intricate sculptural work, incredible costume detailing and tons of accessories, the final product creates an iconic classic vision with a “real world” look. This exclusive, limited-edition not only features a new classic head sculpt and vibrantly colored uniform, but is packaged in an exclusive shield-shaped metal tin featuring a lenticular transformation chamber.

The One:12 Collective Classic Captain America features:

Hyper-realistic portraits
1:12 scaled, highly realistic fabric classic uniform with special simulated duralumin scale armor
Detailed sculpted costume accents, including belt, gloves, and boots
Gauntlets with magnetic attachments
Super articulated body with over 32 points of articulation

What’s in the box:

Classic style masked portrait with pronounced wings
Unmasked Steve Rogers portrait
Fists (L&R)
“Thumbs Up” hand (L)
Saluting hand (R)
Pointing hand (R)
Posing hands (L&R)
Holding hands (L&R)
Shield throwing hands (L&R)
Shield with magnetic attachments
Harness with magnetic attachment
Knife (fits in sheath on the boot)
Grenade set (can clip onto the back of the belt)
Interchangeable pouch and canteen (can clip onto the belt)
Display base with posing post

Packaged in a deluxe, limited edition circular tin featuring Captain America’s shield design. When the tin is opened, a lenticular image is revealed. The lenticular dramatically shows the transformation of Steve Rogers from a scrawny weakling into a chiseled super-soldier. Beneath the lenticular, the figure and his accessories are securely held by collector friendly trays.

This Convention Exclusive will only be available on the Mezco website or at San Diego Comic Con at Mezco’s booth #3445.

June 8, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, News | Avengers, Captain America, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Mezco, News, One:12 Collective, Pre-Order, Press Release, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Mezco SDCC Exclusive Captain America One:12 Collective Figure

Pre-Order Alert: Black Panter CIVIL WAR Statue by Iron Studios

Sideshow Collectibles is now distributing statues for a new company — Iron Studios. And today they put up for pre-order a quarter-scale statue of Black Panther, as seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s film Captain America: Civil War.

This gorgeously sculpted piece shows T’Challa in his vibranium outfit, crouched atop a rock outcropping. His claws are extended, he’s ready to strike!

The statue is hand-painted polystone and stands over 22-inches tall. You can order it now through Sideshow’s site.

May 19, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | #TeamIronMan, Black Panther, Captain America, Civil War, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Black Panter CIVIL WAR Statue by Iron Studios

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Mk 46 from Civil War

“You just started a war!”

Today, #TeamIronMan gets love from Hot Toys. Up for pre-order now is the 1/6th scale collectible figure of Tony Stark’s new Iron Man armor – the Mark XLVI to the Hot Toys MMS Diecast series which the collectible figure is made of diecast material, and realistically designed to look even more like the armor as it appears in the film.

The highly-accurate Mark XLVI collectible figure is greatly detailed and specially crafted based on the image of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man Mark XLVI in Captain America: Civil War. It features a newly sculpted Tony Stark head sculpt, an interchangeable helmeted head, sophistically developed sleek and streamline designed armor, 28 LED light-up points throughout the body, specially applied metallic red, gold and silver colored painting on armor, real-like thrust fire accessories, the helmet of Captain America, and a specially designed debris diorama figure stand.

Do not pass up on the opportunity to add the leader of Team Iron Man to your prized collection!

Check out the gallery below and get your order in now!

Hot Toys – MMS353D16 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scale Mark XLVI Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series Diecast ~

The 1/6th scale Mark XLVI Collectible features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Mark XLVI in Captain America: Civil War
– Newly sculpted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark in the movie
– Alternate helmeted head with LED light-up function (white light, battery operated)
– Approximately 32 cm tall
– Metallic red, gold and silver colored painting on the sleek and streamline Mark XLVI armor design
– Contains diecast material
– 28 LED light-up points throughout parts of the armor (white light, battery operated)
– Chest armor can be detached to reveal interior mechanical design
– Interchangeable shoulder armor (regular, missile firing)
– Fully deployed air flaps at back of the armor
– Four (4) pairs of interchangeable hands including:
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of hands with articulated fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of battle palms with light-up repulsor (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of hands with real-like thrust fire effect
– Articulations on waist armor which allow flexible movement

Accessories:

– One (1) 1/6^th scale Captain America helmet
– Two (2) real-like thrust fire accessories attachable to the feet of the figure
– Debris diorama figure stand with with Mark XLVI nameplate and the movie logo

April 18, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Captain America, Civil War, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Pre-Order, Press Release, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Mk 46 from Civil War

UPDATE: Hot Toys MOVIE PROMO Captain America on WAITLIST!

UPDATE: The Movie Promo Captain America is now on Wait List, less than 48 hours after going up for order. If you want this figure, the best chance is to get on the list fast.

I said this item would sell out fast and it has. Get on the list now and cross your fingers. Good luck!

If you’re #TeamCap you will want to hurry to Sideshow Collectibles! The new Movie Promo figure is up for pre-order: Captain America – Battling Version. These Movie Promo edition figures are very limited and usually sell out fast, demanding top dollar on the secondary market. With Civil War just a couple weeks away, it’s a sure bet this won’t be in stock for long!

Also up for pre-order is another member of #TeamCap — Scarlet Witch! But this is Wanda from Age of Ultron in her badass “New Avengers” outfit worn at the film’s final scene.

Keep your Avengers team growing with these two new figures…but if you can only order one, trust me…get the Cap.

The specs on these figures:

Hot Toys – MMS360 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6^th scale Captain America (Battling Version) Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Captain America Collectible Figure specially features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Chris Evans as Captain America in Captain America: Civil War
– One (1) Captain America helmeted head sculpt
– One (1) newly painted un-helmeted head sculpt
– Movie-accurate facial expression with detailed wrinkles and skin texture
– Newly developed body with over 30 points of articulations which naturally portray Captain America’s muscular body in the film
– Specially applied battle weathering effects on costume
– Approximately 31 cm tall
– Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of shield holding palms
– One (1) shield throwing right palm
– One (1) shield catching left palm
– One (1) finger pointing right palm
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) newly tailored Captain America suit with star emblem and red and white patterns
– One (1) pair of newly tailored blue embossed patterned pants with pouches, knee pads, and red trims
– One (1) pair of fabric coated elbow pads
– One (1) pair of fabric coated knee pads
– One (1) brown leather-like back shield holder and body strap
– One (1) brown leather-like belt with pouches
– One (1) pair of black boots

Weapon:

– One (1) metal circular red and blue Captain America shield with scratch-like marks and weathering effects

Accessories:

– One (1) broken Crossbones helmet
– Debris diorama base with Captain America nameplate and movie logo

Hot Toys – MMS357 – Avengers: Age of Ultron – 1/6^th scale Scarlet Witch (New Avengers Version) Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch (New Avengers version) Collectible Figure features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in Avengers: Age of Ultron
– Head sculpt with movie-accurate facial expression, new makeup application, and long curly light-brown real fabric hair implantation
– Body with over 28 points of articulations
– Approximately 28 cm tall
– Six (6) pieces of interchangeable hands including:
– One (1) pair of relaxed hands
– One (1) pair of hands with red translucent fingertips for power-using effects accessories
– One (1) gesturing left hand with red translucent fingertips
– One (1) gesturing right hand with red translucent fingertips
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted
Costume :
– One (1) red colored leather-like long jacket
– One (1) pair of black leather-like pants
– One (1) pair of black boots with red colored highlights

Accessories:
– One (1) pair of long gloves
– Two (2) power-using effects accessories
– Avengers: Age of Ultron themed figure stand with Scarlet Witch nameplate and the movie logo

Check out the photo galleries below, then order now at Sideshow Collectibles’ site–the only place you can get these two figures!

April 15, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | #TeamCap, Captain America, Civil War, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Pre-Order, Press Release, Scarlet Witch, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on UPDATE: Hot Toys MOVIE PROMO Captain America on WAITLIST!

In Memory of Erik Bauersfeld

2016 is turning into a terrible year in terms of the passing of some celebrity icons but for me, as sad as the losses of Bowie and Rickman were, it’s been news of some of the lesser known names that have been more affecting. Less than ten days into the year I was terribly upset to learn of the death of Angus Scrimm, as any fan of the Phantasm film series will verify, one of the finest horror actors ever to grace the big screen. Last week the untimely parting of Garry Shandling caught me completely off guard, as a Brit he was my gateway to American comedy and a man who never failed to make me laugh. Today I woke to the deeply sad news that a favorite son of the galaxy far, far away, Erik Bauersfeld, the voice behind Admiral Ackbar had died at the grand age of 93.Bauersfeld was already in the employ of Lucasfilm on a radio project when sound guru Ben Burtt asked him to read for parts in the sequels to the 1977 blockbuster. A little known fact is that he could have been the voice of Yoda but it wasn’t to be and I for one and am glad that fate took the path it did. Rumor has it that Bauersfeld was shown a picture of Ackbar and instantly came up with the character voice that we all know and love today. Would internet memes be the same without “It’s a trap!” (let’s be honest you read that in the voice didn’t you?)

Bauersfeld recorded all Ackbar’s dialogue in an hour and then went on to record all Bib Fortuna’s dialogue in half the time, such was his vocal talent. I don’t know the reasoning behind the omission but I always considered it a crime that Erik received no on screen credit for providing two of the most iconic voices in the saga. “This will begin to make things right” was the opening line as the Force Awakened last year and even though most people agree this was JJ’s dig at the maker, it could be applied to credit finally received for Bauersfeld whose name made it on to the big screen as he revived his most well-known character for what we now know was the last time. I for one was the happiest man alive when I heard Erik was going to voice the Admiral once again and whilst most men cried at that Solo scene, the word ‘oscillator’ brought tears of happiness to my eyes.

Steve’s shrine to Admiral Ackbar, Erik Bauersfeld’s iconic voice role

I was lucky enough to meet Erik last year when attending London Film & Comic Con. He looked every bit of his 93 years and, as always happens when meeting elderly actors at conventions, I experienced mixed feelings about asking him for his autograph. Whilst really excited to be meeting a hero, it was such a struggle for him to engage with me on a meaningful level, a part of me would have much rather have him not waste his time with this fanboy and go and sit in the comfy chair he deserved. I’m so glad he did give me his time though, he spent 5 minutes with me and my wife, and they’re five minutes I won’t ever forget. As he signed my 10×8” promo photograph uttering the famous line as he wrote it, he took great pride in ensuring that I knew he was Admiral Ackbar and not the other Mon Calamari pictured, it took a couple of hours to wipe the smile off my face.Since seeing Return of the Jedi in 1983 the character of Admiral Ackbar has been my favourite of the Star Wars saga, I like to think I was the Admiral’s biggest fan before it was cool and have a shrine dedicated in his honour. As an alien who made it to the top of a human dominated organisation, he’s a proud and fearless commander who visibly takes no joy in the demise of the enemy, it’s my daily aim to be as competent and humble as he. The sad news of Erik’s passing might well mean that Ackbar never gets his promotion to Grand Admiral.

On behalf of all Star Wars fans everywhere, thank you for your work Erik.

Erik Bauersfeld at London Film & Comic Con, 2015

April 5, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Conventions, News, Star Wars | Actor, Admiral Ackbar, Bib Fortuna, Enertainment, Erik Bauersfeld, Film, George Lucas, Movie, Movies, News, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Toys, Voiceover | Comments Off on In Memory of Erik Bauersfeld

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Ant-Man from Captain America: Civil War #TeamCap

With the Marvel Cinematic Universe being divided over the rising concern of collateral damage caused by the Avengers in Captain America: Civil War, fans will finally witness the epic showdown between Captain America and Iron Man when the two heroes hold different views on the system of accountability to oversee the Avengers.

Today Hot Toys put up for pre-order the new 1/6th scale collectible figure of newest supporter of Team Captain America, the size-shifting hero, Ant-Man!

The movie-accurate Ant-Man collectible figure is specially crafted based on the film featuring a newly developed head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Ant-Man in the movie, an interchangeable helmeted head with LED light-up function, meticulously tailored new Ant-Man suit, an Ant-Man miniature figure, and a Captain America: Civil War themed figure stand.

Hot Toys – MMS362 – Captain America: Civil War 1/6th scale Ant-Man Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Ant-Man Collectible Figure features:

– Newly developed head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Ant-Man in the movie
– New Interchangeable Ant-Man helmet with LED light-up function (battery operated)
– Approximately 30 cm tall
– Six (6) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
– One (1) pair of relaxed hands
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of gesturing hands
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) new specially tailored black, red, and grey Ant-Man suit with embossed patterns and silver trims
– One (1) pair of silver colored gauntlet
– One (1) pair of black boots

Accessories:

– One (1) miniature Ant-Man (Approximately 2.8cm tall)
– Captain America: Civil War themed Team Captain America figure stand with character’s nameplate and the movie logo

Release date: Q3 – Q4, 2016

Don’t pass up on the opportunity to add the latest Ant-Man collectible figure in your collection.

April 4, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | #TeamCap, Avengers, Captain America, Civil War, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Pre-Order, Press Release, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Ant-Man from Captain America: Civil War #TeamCap

Now Playing Podcast to Deliver Summer of Sci-fi

Now Playing Podcast announced its Spring 2016 Donation Series last week, a lineup of film reviews bookended by two highly requested comedy franchises along with a motley crew of cult classics from the summer of 1986. The latter series, dubbed “Sci-Fi of Summer 1986” should appeal to some of the show’s longtime fans who have been lobbying for those films that they may have missed in theaters but grew up watching on USA “Saturday Nightmares” or Joe Bob Briggs’ “Monstervision.”

As is tradition, donors will get to choose between Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers.

Silver

The Silver Level series ($10 or more) features Will Smith in his prime, headlining Now Playing Podcast reviews of the Men In Black franchise, along with Independence Day and its upcoming sequel.

Gold

“Invaders from Mars” ad from 1986.

The Gold Level series ($25 or more) is where things get really interesting. For the first time, the Now Playing hosts will dissect a series of non-franchise releases with no connection to one another: Critters, Tobe Hooper’s Invaders From Mars, SpaceCamp, Labyrinth (starring Jennifer Connelly and the late, great David Bowie), John Carpenter’s Big Trouble in Little China, and Night of the Creeps. While none were blockbusters in 1986, they still have their fans, most notably Big Trouble and Creeps, which listeners have long requested Now Playing review.

While there is no official Carpenter retrospective, the Big Trouble review will check off another title in the director’s filmography. The Now Playing hosts have previously reviewed Halloween, The Thing, Prince of Darkness, and They Live, with Christine somewhere on the show’s future calendar as part of the Stephen King retrospective. We can all cross our fingers for The Fog or Escape from New York someday, but in the meantime it’s more than a gift to have the director writing the foreword to Now Playing’s first book, “Underrated Movies We Recommend.”

Platinum

When the summer is in full swing, the donation series will focus on one of the greatest comedies of all-time, its pretty great sequel, and the controversial remake/reboot that arrives July 15. A Platinum Level donation of $35 or more will deliver all of the aforementioned reviews, and the Ghostbusters retrospective. The director of Bridesmaids and Spy helms the latest incarnation of the New York-based paranormal investigators and eliminators, and following a mixed reception to the first trailer, it will be fascinating to see if this new Ghostbusters can amass the kind of fan following the first films earned.

The Now Playing Podcast Spring Donation Drive runs from April 1 to July 31, with the first review scheduled for release on April 22. Sign up now to get all of these bonus shows!

April 3, 2016 Posted by Jason Latham | Movies, News | big trouble in little china, bridesmaids, christine, critters, escape from new york, Ghostbusters, ghostbusters 2, Halloween, independence day, independence day resurgence, invaders from mars, joe bob briggs, John Carpenter, labyrinth, men in black, men in black 2, men in black 3, monstervision, News, night of the creeps, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, paul feig, Podcasts, prince of darkness, spacecamp, spy, the fog, They Live, usa network | Comments Off on Now Playing Podcast to Deliver Summer of Sci-fi

The March Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Are Chosen!

The Sweet 16 Heroes of March Marvel Madness have been selected!

The competition started March 15. Each day two pairs of heroes were plucked from the Marvel Cinematic Universe and competed head to head. Marvel fans across the globe voted at VenganzaMedia.com and from the 32 contestants, 16 winners were chosen.

Click to see the full March Marvel Madness Bracket

Now those winners go head to head, the victors advancing to the Elite 8, and you decide the results!

Each day at 1pm EDT from March 23rd through March 26th two more face-offs will be posted. The matches will be:

March 23: Black Panther vs Hulk

March 23: Gamora vs Thor

March 24: Hawkeye vs Punisher

March 24: Spider-Man vs Luke Cage

March 25: War Machine vs Iron Man

March 25: Vision vs Rocket Raccoon

March 26: Agent Phil Coulson vs Black Widow

March 26: Captain America vs Jessica Jones

Come back to VenganzaMedia.com each day to vote for the winner! The victors advance to our March Marvel Madness Elite 8. Then, starting March 27, one match will be posted per day until only one Marvel champion remains!

Marvel collectors: get your dose of Marvel toy and statue collecting news on the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Marvel movie fans: hear reviews of every Marvel movie, from Howard the Duck through Ant-Man on the Now Playing podcast!

March 23, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Agents of SHIELD, Avengers, Black Panther, Black Widow, Captain America, Comic Books, Comics, Daredevil, Defenders, Enertainment, Film, Gamora, Guardians of the Galaxy, Hawkeye, Heroes for Hire, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, March Madness, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvel Madness, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, Netflix, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Phil Coulson, Podcasts, Press Release, Punisher, sci-fi, Spider-Man, Thor, Vision, War Machine | Comments Off on The March Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Are Chosen!

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye #TeamCap

Following the release of the latest trailer of Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, fans around the world are getting more and more excited for this epic battle between their favorite heroes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe!

Today, Hot Toys continues their waves of high-end collectible figures based on this highly anticipated film and officially present the new 1/6^th scale Hawkeye Collectible Figure!

The movie-accurate Hawkeye Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye in Captain America: Civil War. It features a newly painted head sculpt, a brand new costume with asymmetrical sleeves design, Hawkeye’s iconic bow and arrows, a specially sculpted interchangeable arrowhead with miniature Ant-Man, a pistol and dagger, and Captain America: Civil War themed figure stand.

Don’t miss the chance to add this master marksman of Team Captain America in your collection today!

The Hot Toys MMS358 1/6th scale Hawkeye Collectible Figure features:

– Newly painted head sculpt with authentic and detailed likeness of Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye in Captain America: Civil War
– Approximately 30 cm tall
– Body with over 30 points of articulations
– Movie-accurate facial features with detailed wrinkles and skin texture
– Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable hands with gloved right hand and finger tabs on left hand including:
– One (1) pair of relaxed hands
– One (1) right hand for holding bow
– One (1) right hand for holding dagger
– One (1) left hand for holding pistol
– Two (2) left hands of different styles for holding arrow
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) specially tailored dark blue and dark purple-colored suit with asymmetrical sleeves design
– One (1) pair of dark navy blue pants with belt on waist and straps on thighs
– One (1) pair of black boots with dagger sheath on right boot

Weapons:

– One (1) black colored bow
– One (1) dagger
– One (1) pistol
– One (1) specially sculpted interchangeable arrowhead with miniature Ant-Man on top
– Eleven (11) interchangeable arrowheads of different styles
– Sixteen (16) individual arrows

Accessories:
– One (1) quiver
– One (1) pair of sunglasses
– Captain America: Civil War themed Team Captain America figure stand with Hawkeye nameplate and the movie logo

Get your Hawkeye preordered now at Sideshow Collectibles

March 16, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | #TeamCap, Avengers, Captain America, Civil War, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hawkeye, Hot Toys, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye #TeamCap

March Marvel Madness Will Prove Which Hero is Mightiest

Since the dawn of heroes, fans worldwide have speculated about who would win a head-to-head match…

“Captain America would win a fight with Daredevil!”

“Hulk would win a fight with Iron Man!”

“Howard the Duck would win a fight with Vision!”

Now, you get the final word.

It’s bigger than Civil War! It’s bigger than Secret Wars! It’s Venganza Media’s Marvel Madness!

We’re pitting the stars of Marvel’s cinematic and television universes against each other in a bracket battle for the ages, and YOU will decide the victor! Fill out your bracket, choose the winners, and vote here on the Venganza Media Gazette. As heroes fall, the field of 32 will be whittled down until the champion is crowned on April 4.

Download Your Bracket

Post your bracket at the Marvelicious Toys and Now Playing Podcast Facebook pages, and tell everyone why you think Maria Hill will win it all! Really, if you’ve got Hill going No. 1 we must know why.

LET THE MADNESS BEGIN!

Today’s Matches:

Winter Soldier vs Luke Cage

Maria Hill vs The Punisher

March 15, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Captain America, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Reviews, sci-fi, Spider-Man, X-Men | Comments Off on March Marvel Madness Will Prove Which Hero is Mightiest

Pre-Order Alert: Mezco’s One:12 Captain America (Spider-Man, Deadpool, and Red Skull Announced)

There was no contest. Marvelicious Toys’ winner of “Best in Show” for the 2016 Toy Fair International was Mezco and their One:12 line of highly articulated 1/12th scale action figures.

Now the first Marvel Superhero in that figure line is available for pre-order: Captain America

This new figure line has these classic Marvel characters in their comic book incarnations. But with what Mezco calls “Hyper-realistic portraits”, 32-points of articulation, fabric uniforms with special silk screening applications, and sculpted accessories like belt, gloves, harness, and boots, this is a 6-inch figure like no other.

Plus the Captain America figure is loaded with accessories. This first release has

Standard helmeted portrait
Unmasked Steve Rogers Portrait
Fists (L&R)
“Thumbs Up” hand (L)
Saluting hand (R)
Pointing hand (R)
Posing hands (L&R)
Holding hands (L&R)
Shield throwing hands (L&R)
Shield with magnetic attachments
Harness with magnetic attachment
Knife (fits in sheath on the boot)
Grenade set (can clip onto the back of the belt)
Interchangeable pouch and canteen (can clip onto the belt)
Display base with posing post

Each figure is packaged in a deluxe, fifth panel window box with translucent acetate slipcover. Designed for collector convenience, the packaging allows for both maximum protection as well as ease of removal for display.

We know this line will expand fast. Three different versions of Captain America were displayed at Toy Fair, and this is the first opened for order. Plus just earlier today Mezco revealed their plans for Spider-Man, Deadpool, and Red Skull figures in this line!

Mezco-Deadpool-ONE-12-Collective-Figure-Preview-640x375

Mezco-Marvel-Universe-ONE-12-Collective-Sneak-Peeks-640x427

Mezco-Spider-Man-One-12-Collective-Action-Figure-640x640

One-12-Collective-Red-Skull-Figure-Mezco-640x640

Previous Mezco One:12 releases, like their Spock and Batman, have pre-sold out and already command top dollar on the secondary market. So if you want to jump into this new line, you can order direct from Mezco today!

Watch our booth tour and interview with Mezco about thier One:12 line on the Marvelicious Toys YouTube channel

March 9, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Action, Avengers, Captain America, Collecting, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Mezco, News, One:12, One:12 Collective, Pre-Order, Spider-Man, Toy Fair, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Mezco’s One:12 Captain America (Spider-Man, Deadpool, and Red Skull Announced)

Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Digital HD April 1, Blu-Ray April 5. Exclusive editions Announced!

Arriving early on Digital HD April 1, 2016

Bring it home on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD on April 5, 2016

Including new in-depth bonus offering fans the chance to experience more

Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming to Video On Demand on April 1, 2016 and Blu-Ray and DVD on April 5, 2016. It is also coming to Disney Movies Anywhere, which allows you to redeem a code and access the digital movie on iTunes, Vudu, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft Web Services.

More, there will be several retailer exclusives for The Force Awakens. Pre-orders are up now — click the store name to go to the pre-order page.

TARGET – The Target Star Wars: The Force Awakens Blu-ray Combo Pack comes with exclusive packaging and an added 20 minutes of bonus content, including never-before-seen interviews with Daisy Ridley and John Boyega and a deeper look at the movie’s costumes and weaponry
WALMART – The Walmart Star Wars: The Force Awakens Blu-ray Combo Pack comes with exclusive BB-8 packaging and an exclusive Star Wars Galactic Connexions trading disc
BEST BUY – The Best Buy Star Wars: The Force Awakens Blu-ray Combo Pack features exclusive SteelBook Packaging

The full press release is below:

BURBANK, Calif. (March 3, 2016)—Star Wars: The Force Awakens shattered box office records upon its debut to become the cinematic event of a generation with over $926 million domestic and $2.05 billion worldwide. As announced this morning by Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert A. Iger at The Walt Disney Company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the epic movie will be available to own early on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere on April 1, and coming home on Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD on April 5.

Discover the complete story behind the making of Star Wars: The Force Awakens with in-depth documentary and bonus material that will take fans on an exciting journey behind the scenes. Secrets will be revealed through extensive footage, never-before-seen deleted scenes, and exclusive interviews with the actors and filmmakers. Bonus features include*:

Secrets of The Force Awakens: A Cinematic Journey – For the first time, discover the complete story behind the making of The Force Awakens, revealed through in-depth footage and exclusive interviews with the actors and filmmakers in this feature documentary.
The Story Awakens: The Table Read – Cast members familiar and new reflect on the memorable day they all first came together to read the movie’s script.
Building BB-8 – See how the filmmakers brought the newest droid to the screen, creating an instant fan favorite in the Star Wars
Crafting Creatures – Watch movie magic as the filmmakers bring a cast of new creatures to life.
Blueprint of a Battle: The Snow Fight – Go deeper into the epic, climactic lightsaber battle between Rey and Kylo Ren.
John Williams: The Seventh Symphony – The legendary composer shares personal insights of his work on Star Wars and The Force Awakens.
ILM: The Visual Magic of The Force – An insider’s look into the remarkable digital artistry of the movie’s visual effects.
Force For Change – Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. See how the Star Wars: Force for Change initiative has united Star Wars fans all over the globe to help others.
Plus Deleted Scenes

* Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer

Star Wars: The Force Awakens saw the eagerly anticipated reteaming of original Star Wars stars Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher, and Mark Hamill, along with Anthony Daniels, the only actor to have been in all seven Star Wars films, and Peter Mayhew. The returning cast was joined by newcomer Daisy Ridley, who beat out fierce competition to take the principal role of Rey; BAFTA Rising Star Award winner John Boyega (Attack the Block, Imperial Dreams) as reluctant stormtrooper Finn; Emmy® nominee Adam Driver (Lincoln, Girls) as the villainous Kylo Ren, and Golden Globe® winner Oscar Isaac (Inside Llewyn Davis, The Bourne Legacy) as Resistance pilot Poe Dameron.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens was directed by J.J. Abrams and written by Lawrence Kasdan & J.J. Abrams and Michael Arndt. Lucasfilm president and eight-time Academy Award® nominee Kathleen Kennedy and J.J. Abrams, along with his longtime producing partner Bryan Burk, are the film’s producers.

Having established a musical legacy with his iconic scores for the previous six films in the Star Wars Saga, acclaimed composer John Williams returned to score Star Wars: The Force Awakens, ultimately garnering his 50^th Oscar® nomination for it.

DISC SPECIFICATIONS:

FEATURE RUN TIME: Approximately 136 min.

RATING: PG-13 in U.S.; PG in CE; G in CF

ASPECT RATIO: Blu-ray Feature Film = 2.40:1

DVD Feature Film = 2.40:1

AUDIO: Blu-ray = English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital Language Tracks

DVD = English, French and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio Language Tracks

LANGUAGES: English, French & Spanish

SUBTITLES: English SDH, French & Spanish
SOCIAL MEDIA:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/StarWarsMovies

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StarWars

Website: http://www.starwars.com/the-force-awakens/

Instagram: http://instagram.com/StarWarsMovies

ABOUT STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS:

Lucasfilm and visionary director J.J. Abrams join forces to take you back again to a galaxy far, far away as Star Wars returns to the big screen with Star Wars: The Force Awakens. The film stars Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Oscar Isaac, Lupita Nyong’o, Andy Serkis, Domhnall Gleeson, Anthony Daniels, Peter Mayhew and Max Von Sydow. Kathleen Kennedy, J.J. Abrams and Bryan Burk are producing with Tommy Harper and Jason McGatlin serving as executive producers. The screenplay is written by Lawrence Kasdan & J.J. Abrams and Michael Arndt.

ABOUT LUCASFILM LTD.

Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company’s activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.

Lucasfilm, the Lucasfilm logo, STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM 2015 Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved.

…/3

ABOUT DISNEY MOVIES ANYWHERE (DMA):

Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA) is an engaging and family-friendly cloud-based digital movie service that makes it simple to buy your favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars movies once and watch them anywhere. With DMA you can explore Disney’s library of over 450 eligible digital movies, discover hours of new and exclusive short-form content, and watch your digital movies from the comfort of the living room or across multiple mobile devices. Using the free DMA apps and website, you can connect your DMA account with participating providers including iTunes, Amazon Video, VUDU, Microsoft Movies and TV and Google Play and unlock access to your eligible movie collections across platforms and devices – iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple TV/Airplay, Amazon’s Fire tablets, Fire TV and Fire TV Stick, Microsoft Movies and TV service on Windows and Microsoft Xbox devices, Android mobile and tablet devices and Android TV, Chromecast and the Roku^®platform. In addition, you can redeem Digital Copy codes found in Disney, Pixar and Marvel Blu-rays and DVDs, as well as earn Disney Movie Rewards points with every digital purchase.

ABOUT THE WALT DISNEY STUDIOS:

For over 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; Lucasfilm; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!.

# # #

STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates.© & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.

IN-HOME MEDIA CONTACTS:

NATIONAL: Maria Barraza REGIONAL: Gabrielle Bilicki

Maria.Barraza@Disney.com Gabrielle.Bilicki@Disney.com

818-560-4068 818-560-4069

March 3, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Star Wars | Blu-ray, Disney, DVD, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, The Force Awakens, VOD | Comments Off on Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Digital HD April 1, Blu-Ray April 5. Exclusive editions Announced!

Star Wars: The Force Awakens to be 3-Disc Blu-ray Set

is coming to Blu-ray, and there may be more secrets inside!

According to the specs listed on Blu-ray.com The Force Awakens will have 2 Blu-ray discs and 1 DVD. The movie itself is on one Blu-ray as well as the DVD. Contents on the other Blu-ray disc are as yet unknown.

Additionally, the set is listed as coming with an iTunes Digital Copy as well as a Google Play Digital Copy. No other bonus features have been announced.

There is no release date given, but the iTunes digital release date is rumored at March 15, with rentals available April 5. If the pattern holds with Disney’s other home video releases, the Blu-ray should be released in mid-April.

Pre-Order the disc now at Amazon.com to get it on release day!

February 22, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Star Wars | Blu-ray, Collecting, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Pre-Order, Release Dates, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, The Force Awakens | Comments Off on Star Wars: The Force Awakens to be 3-Disc Blu-ray Set

THE HATEFUL EIGHT Arriving on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and On Demand March 29, 2016

Quentin Tarantino’s Academy Award Nominated THE HATEFUL EIGHT is now up for pre-order! Get details about this release below:

BEVERLY HILLS, CA (February 17, 2016) – Anchor Bay Entertainment and The Weinstein Company are proud to present the home entertainment release of the eighth film by two-time Academy Award^®winner Quentin Tarantino (Django Unchained, Pulp Fiction). Shot entirely on 70mm and featuring a Golden Globe^®and BAFTA^® award-winning score by Oscar^® winner Ennio Morricone (Bugsy, The Mission) THE HATEFUL EIGHT “absolutely delivers on the sheer moment-to-moment pleasures fans have come to expect — from dynamite dialogue to powder-keg confrontations,” Peter Debruge, Variety.An explosive frontier mystery about eight strangers with one deadly connection, THE HATEFUL EIGHT will be available for digital download on March15, 2016 from Starz Digital before heading to retail on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack ($39.99 SRP) and DVD ($29.98 SRP) from Anchor Bay Entertainment and On Demand March 29, 2016. Special features for THE HATEFUL EIGHT include two featurettes – “Beyond the Eight: A Behind-the-Scenes Look” and “Sam Jackson’s Guide to Glorious 70mm.”

“If you’re going to shoot your movie and release it in 70mm,

it’s really the way to go: twenty-four frames a second flickering through a projector,

creating the illusion of movement.” – Quentin Tarantino

Ultra Panavision 70 is the very rare and exceptional format that Quentin Tarantino and his team used to shoot THE HATEFUL EIGHT, the widest 70mm theatrical release in twenty years. Panavision’s unique anamorphic camera lenses capture images on film in an incredible aspect ratio of 2.76:1. Almost all films seen today are shot in ratios of either 1.85:1 or 2.39:1. Simply put, Ultra Panavision 70 provides an amazingly wide and more detailed image.

THE HATEFUL EIGHT marks the triumphant return to the genre for legendary composer Morricone (The Good, The Bad and the Ugly, A Fistful of Dollars). Nominated for an Academy Award^® for Best Original Score, Morricone is back in the saddle after nearly four decades since last scoring a full-length Western. Additional Academy Award^® nominations include 3-time Oscar^®winner Robert Richardson for Best Cinematography and Jennifer Jason Leigh for Best Actress in a Supporting Role. THE HATEFUL EIGHT’s notorious all-star cast also boasts Oscar^® nominees Samuel L. Jackson (Pulp Fiction), Kurt Russell (Silkwood), Emmy^® nominee Walton Goggins (TV’s Justified), Demian Bichir (A Better Life) and Tim Roth (Rob Roy).

In THE HATEFUL EIGHT, set six or eight or twelve years after the Civil War, a stagecoach hurtles through the wintry Wyoming landscape. The passengers, bounty hunter John Ruth (Kurt Russell) and his fugitive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh), race towards the town of Red Rock where Ruth, known in those parts as “The Hangman,” will bring Domergue to justice. Along the road, they encounter two strangers: Major Marquis Warren (Samuel L. Jackson), a black former union soldier turned infamous bounty hunter, and Chris Mannix (Walton Goggins), a southern renegade who claims to be the town’s new Sheriff. Losing their lead on the blizzard, Ruth, Domergue, Warren and Mannix seek refuge at Minnie’s Haberdashery, a stagecoach stopover on a mountain pass. When they arrive at Minnie’s, they are greeted not by the proprietor but by four unfamiliar faces. Bob (Demian Bichir), who’s taking care of Minnie’s while she’s visiting her mother, is holed up with Oswaldo Mobray (Tim Roth), the hangman of Red Rock, cow-puncher Joe Gage (Michael Madsen), and Confederate General Sanford Smithers (Bruce Dern). As the storm overtakes the mountainside stopover, our eight travelers come to learn they may not make it to Red Rock after all…

Order this film now at Amazon.com

February 18, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News | Blu-ray, DVD, Film, Hateful Eight, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Pre-Order, Press Release, Quentin Tarantino, Samuel L Jackson | Comments Off on THE HATEFUL EIGHT Arriving on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and On Demand March 29, 2016

Win a Sixth-Scale Boba Fett Figure from Sideshow Collectibles and Star Wars Action News!

As announced on the first episode of Star Wars Action News’ Toy Fair 2016 coverage — Star Wars Action News and Sideshow Collectibles are teaming up to give away this sixth-scale Boba Fett figure!

The contest starts Sunday, February 14th and goes through February 29th. You can enter up to three times:

Facebook – Like Star Wars Action News’ Facebook Page, and like and comment on the contest post. In your comment, tag your Facebook friend you’d trust to help you capture your bounty!

Want to win this Sideshow Collectibles Boba Fett Sixth Scale figure? LIKE Star Wars Action News on Facebook, Like this…

Posted by Star Wars Action News on Sunday, 14 February 2016
Twitter – Follow Star Wars Action News’ Twitter feed, and retweet our contest entry tweet.

Win a @collectsideshow Boba Fett! Follow @swactionnews and RT this post to enter. Full rules https://t.co/gGmyE6MKed pic.twitter.com/pknStdFX2A

— swactionnews (@swactionnews) February 15, 2016
Podbean – Follow Star Wars Action News on Podbean

You can enter once on each site, and up to three times total. Then from all eligible entries, a winner will be randomly chosen and announced on the March 7th episode of Star Wars Action News.

The prize will be shipped to you directly from Sideshow Collectibles.

This contest is open to fans worldwide! US winners ship free. International winners (including EU regions) will be responsible for shipping, as well as VAT, duties or import fees on the shipment of their prize. Due to customs requirements, the prize will need to be assigned a value of at least US$1. (If we do not then your customs office may elect to charge you the retail worth of your item.) Further, some countries outside of the U.S. do not have reliable mail services. In the event that a prize has been stolen or mishandled during shipment to an international destination, Sideshow may not be able to replace the specific item(s).

Enter today and good luck!

February 14, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News, Star Wars | Boba Fett, Collecting, Contest, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Movie, Movies, News, Podcasts, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Toys | Comments Off on Win a Sixth-Scale Boba Fett Figure from Sideshow Collectibles and Star Wars Action News!

Diamond Select Toys Gives A Preview of Toy Fair Releases

Toy Fair 61RsgPK9piL._SL1001_ 2016 is still 2 days away, but Diamond Select Toys has already given a preview of some new things they’ll have on display!

For Marvel Select collectors, no news may be more welcome than the confirmation of a rerelease of the Carnage Select action figure. This detailed figure barely showed up in comic stores, and has spiked as high as $80 on eBay! Now this 8-inch figure is coming back, giving you an extra chance to grab him. Carnage has 16 points of articulation, three interchangeable heads, swappable weapon hands, and removable tendrils that let you customize your figure’s appearance. He will retail for $24.99.

In addition to that welcome reissue, Diamond also announced new Marvel products in their Statue, PVC, and Minimates line:

Marvel Gallery Spider-Gwen 9” PVC Figure

A Diamond Select Toys release! One of the most exciting new characters in the Marvel Universe is now part of one of its most exciting new collectible lines! The Amazing Spider-Gwen, a spider-powered, hard-rocking Gwen Stacy from a parallel universe, gets the Gallery treatment with this 9-inch scale static PVC figure! Posed on the side of a New York brownstone, Spider-Gwen is sculpted with a high level of detail and exacting paint applications. Packaged in a full-color window box, she is in scale to other Gallery and Femme Fatales PVC figures. Sculpted by Jean St. Jean!

PVC Figure SRP: $45.00

Marvel Minimates Series 67 Civil War 2-Packs Asst.

A Diamond Select Toys release! Get ready for Round 2! The action of Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War continues with a second assortment of Minimates mini-figures based on the film! In this next batch of two-packs, Battle-Damaged Captain America takes on Battle-Damaged Iron Man, Black Widow meets Crossbones, Agent 13 faces an evil Thug and a rare, one-per-case variant set pairs Secretary Ross with another Thug! Each 2-inch Minimates mini-figure features 14 points of articulation, as well as character-appropriate accessories and fully interchangeable parts. Designed by Art Asylum!

2-Pack SRP: $9.99/ea.

Marvel Premier Collection Rogue 12” Resin Statue

A Diamond Select Toys release! This is the statue you’ve been waitin’ for, shugah! The Marvel Premier Collection continues its tour of the icons of the Marvel Universe with this statue of the X-Men’s Southern belle, Rogue! Depicted in mid-flight, the power-stealing sweetheart is wearing her fan-favorite 1990s yellow-and-green costume, with leather jacket, and measures approximately 12” tall. Limited to only 3,000 pieces, this numbered resin statue is packaged with a certificate of authenticity in a full-color box. Sculpted by Clayburn Moore!

Statue SRP: $150.00

All these items and more will be on display to wholesale buyers and press at New York’s Toy Fair International! Stay tuned to Marvelicious Toys, as well as our Facebook and Twitter feeds, for all the updates right from the show!

February 11, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News | Avengers, Captain America, Civil War, Diamond Select Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Minimates, Movies, News, Press Release, Rogue, sci-fi, Spider-Gwen, Spider-Man, Statues, Toys, X-Men | Comments Off on Diamond Select Toys Gives A Preview of Toy Fair Releases

Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure

Up for order right now is Sideshow Collectibles’ exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure!

This newest statue features this Guardian of the Galaxy in her white battle armor, decorated with gold skulls, a hooded cloak, and a belt.

Both the regular and exclusive version come with Gamora’s God Slayer sword, but the exclusive also has a swap-out hand with Gamora holding a tactical knife.

This item is slated to ship in early 2017–right about when the hype for Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 2 will be at its apex. So you know this is going to be sold out and have a high secondary value when it ships.

Don’t delay, order your Gamora Premium Format Figure now at Sideshow Collectibles!

February 11, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Gamora, Guardians of the Galaxy, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure

Hot Toys get SNEAKY With latest Iron Man Figure

Hot Toys has gotten Sneaky with their newest Iron Man figure.

As seen in Iron Man III this Mark XV armor was work very briefly by Tony Stark during his final battle against Aldrich Killian. It was also one of the suits seen when the Iron Legion showed up for that fight.
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Per the Iron Man 3 Blu-Ray, the Mark XV is a Stealth Armor Prototype Upgrade with Sonic Dampening Thrusters and Reto-Reflective Coating which adapts the suit’s tint to the surrounding environment for stealth capabilities.:

The Hot Toys collectible figure of Sneaky stands just over 12-inches tall. It features the meticulously crafted armor that captures the suit’s unique and original design, specially applied bluish-black and silver painting on armor with decals and weathering effects throughout whole body, LED light-up functions on eyes, arc reactor, repulsors, and left forearm, and a dynamic figure stand perfect for aerial poses.
Hot Toys – MMS348 – Iron Man 3 – 1/6th scale Sneaky (Mark XV) ~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Sneaky (Mark XV) Collectible Figure’s special features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Sneaky (Mark XV) in Iron Man 3
– Bluish-black and silver colored painting with decals and weathering throughout whole armor
– Approximately 31 cm tall
– Over 30 points of articulations
– LED-lighted eyes and circular-shaped RT on chest (white light, battery operated)
– LED-lighted left forearm (battery operated)
– Asymmetrical forearm design
– Removable chest armor to reveal interior mechanical design
– Shin armor can be opened to reveal interior mechanical design
– Three (3) pairs of interchangeable palms including:
– One (1) pair of palms with articulated fingers and light-up repulsor (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of repulsor-firing palms (white light, battery operated)
– Articulations on waist armor allowing flexible movement

Accessory:

– One (1) circular figure stage with flexible pole

It is time to add another new member of the “House Party Protocol” to your Iron Man collection today!

January 22, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies | Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Podcasts, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Hot Toys get SNEAKY With latest Iron Man Figure

Deadpool and Agent Carter exclusive Funko POPs up for pre-order

Amazon has put up for order two new exclusive POP Vinyl figures from Funko.

First, to tie into the upcoming film is Deadpool. While there are a multitude of new Deadpool POPs on the way, this one has a unique yellow and blue color scheme and the thumb pointing pose.

Then, tying into this week’s Season 2 premiere of Agent Carter is Agent Carter in Sepia Tone. Like the Hot Topic exclusive, she’s holding the gold orb. This color scheme drives home the 40s era look.

Both these were considered completely sold out just last night, but they’re in stock now and with free shipping for Prime members. So get your order in now!

January 22, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, Television | ABC, Agent Carter, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Deadpool, Fox Studios, Funko, Funko POP!, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, POP Vinyl, Pre-Order, ryan reynolds, Television, Toys | Comments Off on Deadpool and Agent Carter exclusive Funko POPs up for pre-order

Star Wars Episode VIII Release Date Pushed Back

Lucasfilm has announced that Star Wars Episode VIII has been delayed.

Originally scheduled to open May 26, 2017, the new release date is December 15, 2017.

The full press release is below.

Is this an attempt to recreate the nearly $2 billion earned by Episode VII: The Force Awakens? Does Disney not want Star Wars to compete with their other profitable space series — Guardians of the Galaxy? (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 opens May 5, 2017.) Or did director Rian Johnson need more time to finish the film?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Star Wars: Episode VIII to Open December 15, 2017

The release date for the next film in the saga is confirmed.

Today, Disney and Lucasfilm announced that Star Wars: Episode VIII, originally scheduled for release in summer 2017, will now debut on December 15, 2017.

The move follows the extraordinary success of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which was the first Star Wars movie to premiere outside the traditional summer blockbuster window and smashed numerous records, including biggest domestic and global debuts of all time as well as the biggest domestic second and third weekends, en route to becoming the highest grossing domestic release of all time with over $861.3 million and the third biggest global release ever with $1,886.7 billion.

Written and directed by Rian Johnson, Star Wars: Episode VIII is currently in preproduction and will begin principal photography in London next month. Kathleen Kennedy and Ram Bergman will produce and J.J. Abrams, Jason McGatlin, and Tom Karnowski will executive produce. Stay tuned for exciting updates in the coming weeks.

January 20, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, Star Wars | Action, Enertainment, Episode VIII, Film, George Lucas, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Press Release, Rian Johnson, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | Comments Off on Star Wars Episode VIII Release Date Pushed Back

Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Captain Marvel Statue

Sideshow Collectibles’ exclusive Captain Marvel Premium Format Figure is now up for order! It stands 23-inches tall, showing Carol Danvers flying over a pile of wreckage. And if you order now you can get the exclusive version that has an swappable head showing her in her helmet!

While this is a gorgeous statue with marvelous color, I have to think this is the second statue Sideshow has put out that strains to justify its $500 price tag (the first being the Phoenix statue just last week!) Yes, Sideshow is making their statues taller through use of vertical bases, but that is not enough to justify the extra $120-$140 over what they were charging two years ago. For a basic human-sized figure, and at the rate Sideshow is making them, it’s hard to justify Captain Marvel’s cost to any but the most hard-core Captain Marvel fan.

While I have severe FOMO on this one, I’m holding off in hopes of a discount down the road.

But if this is for you…Get your order in now at Sideshow Collectibles!

January 14, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Captain Marvel, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Infinity War, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Captain Marvel Statue

Pre-Order Alert: Two new Premium Format statues from Sideshow – Hulk and Dark Phoenix!

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Like a super-villain attacking your wallet, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for order two new Premium Format Figures: Jean Gray’s Dark Phoenix and Hulk from Avengers: Age of Ultron.

These two statues are incredibly detailed, gorgeous pieces. But each carries with it a Hulk-sized price tag.

At $500 each, my number of Premium Format statue purchases will go down. That said, I love, and I’ve already ordered, the Dark Phoenix statue. With her fiery base and the exclusive Jean Gray swappable head, plus such an iconic character from what is arguably Claremont’s best story arc, this one is (barely) worth the price.

However, I have to go the other way on the Hulk. It was the movie-themed Premium Formats that got me into Sideshow Premium Format Figures to begin with. Black Widow, Captain America, and even the Avengers Hulk Maquette were all amazing. However, this new Hulk is $750 — $100 more than the Avengers Hulk, and $200 more than the (still up for pre-order) comic-based Hulk Premium Format Figure announced last year.

I will admit, I could have been swayed into buying this Age of Ultron Hulk if, like Phoenix, the exclusive piece was amazing. Perhaps if they included a red-eyed Rampaging Hulk head, or a hand holding a piece of Iron Man armor. But no, the exclusive piece isn’t a must-have; to me it’s actually a turn-off.

Hearkening back to the exclusive Legendary Scale Busts of previous years, this Hulk’s exclusive piece is a… nameplate. Now, I know I can choose not to display this piece since I already know who this character is, but it’s certainly not an enticement to pre-order.

I may still get Hulk pre-ordered once edition sizes are announced, but unless the edition size is 500 or less for the regular edition, I’ll be holding off and hoping for a Spooktacular deal on this overpriced piece in October, 2017.

I always appreciate anyone who’s ordering from Sideshow using our links and supporting Marvelicious Toys, but I find it hard to endorse a $750 version of a character (that MarvelToyNews.com pointed out…it looks like he’s bowling).

You can pre-order (and flex pay, as I did on Phoenix) both of these statues now:

Jean Gray’s Dark Phoenix

Hulk from Avengers: Age of Ultron.

January 7, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Ultron, Avengers, Chris Claremont, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Dark Phoenix, Enertainment, Film, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Jean Gray, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Toys, X-Men | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Two new Premium Format statues from Sideshow – Hulk and Dark Phoenix!

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Deadpool

Marvel’s most unconventional superhero, Deadpool, will finally hit the silver screen in full glory with his over-the-top personality, dark twisted sense of humor, and tendency to break the fourth wall which fans have always loved! Today, Hot Toys has put up for pre-order the one and only 1/6^thscale Deadpool collectible figure based on the upcoming Deadpool movie!

In this new film, the origin story of former Special Forces operative turned mercenary Wade Wilson will be unfolded, who after being subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopts the alter ego Deadpool. Armed with his new abilities and a dark, twisted sense of humor, Deadpool hunts down the man who nearly destroyed his life.

The movie-accurate collectible figure is specially crafted based on the image of Deadpool from the film. It features a newly developed masked head sculpt with 5 pairs of interchangeable eye pieces to create numerous combinations of Deadpool’s expressions, newly developed body, meticulously tailored Deadpool suit with weathering effects, Deadpool’s signature katanas and pistols, variety of interchangeable hands with gestures, and a specially designed Deadpool themed dynamic figure stand perfect for aerial poses.

You just can’t pass up on this opportunity to add the beloved Merc with a Mouth to your collection and witness the beginning of a happy ending.

Please kindly find the attached photos and spec below for your reference.

Hot Toys – MMS347 – Deadpool: 1/6th scale Deadpool Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Deadpool Collectible Figure’s special features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Deadpool in Deadpool movie
– One (1) Deadpool head with five (5) pairs of interchangeable eye pieces that can create numerous combinations of Deadpool’s expressions
– Approximately 31 cm tall
– Newly developed body with over 30 points of articulation
– Twelve (12) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of relaxed hands
– One (1) pair of katana holding hands
– One (1) pair for gun holding hands
– One (1) pair of finger pointing hands
– One (1) thumb-up right hand
– One (1) OK sign left hand
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume :

– One (1) specially tailored red and black colored Deadpool suit with weathering effects
– One (1) brown colored leather-like belt
– One (1) pair of thigh gun holsters
– One (1) dagger sheath on shin
– One (1) pair of red and black colored boots

Weapons:

– One (1) dagger
– Two (2) metal katanas
– Two (2) pistols
– Two (2) shurikens

Accessories:

– One (1) pair of katana sheath
– Specially designed Deadpool emblem dynamic figure stand with Deadpool nameplate and the movie logo

Check out these gorgeous shots of Marvel’s Merc with a Mouth. Then order now, touch yourself tonight!

January 6, 2016 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Apocalypse, Comic Books, Comics, Deadpool, Enertainment, Film, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, ryan reynolds, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys, Wade Wilson, X-Men | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Deadpool

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusive Iron an Mk XXVI (Gamma) and Jakku Stormtroopers

Remember: Sign-ups for the Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys Secret Santa Gift Exchanges end today! Sign up now!

Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for order two brand new Hot Toys figures! Both are the highly sought after Movie Promo Edition exclusives!

First, the Iron Man 3 House Party Protocol continues with the newest armor — the Iron Man Mk XXVI — Gamma Armor. This heavy construction suit allows Tony to resist extreme temperatures and devastating electrical surges. And it gets its name for its ability to withstand Gamma Radiation (guess Banner could have used one of these).

The figure stands over 13-inches tall, has over 30 points of articulation, and LEG-lit eyes and rectangular arc reactor on the chest. Plus there are spring-loaded Pneumatic Hammers that light up, and articulated air flaps and waist armor.

Order the Iron Man MK XXVI Now

Next, in the Star Wars line, comes the First Order Jakku Stormtrooper. This white armored troop will be on big screens in 2 weeks, but you can pre-order him now! The usual First Order Stormtrooper armor is augmented with a heavy artillery vest, a detachable survival backpack, a blaster rifle with an extended stock, and a special Jakku-themed desert figure stand!

The Jakku First Order Stormtrooper is almost 12-inches tall. It has over 30 points of articulation and 8 interchangable hands.

Order the Jakku First Order Stormtrooper Now

Plus yesterday Sideshow also put up for order their own sixth scale Boba Fett figure. Shipping early in 2016, this 12-inch figure has over 30 points of articulation and an absolute ton of weapons and accessories, including

Fabric flight suit and vest with DurapastÂ armor plates
Cape
Belt with pouches
Honor sash
Blaster pistol holster
Rocket pack
Blaster pistol
EE-3 Mark I carbine blaster
Knee pads
Survival knife
Sonic beam weapon
Anti-Security blade
Rocket pack adjustment tool
Right and left gauntlets
Braided Wookie scalps
Interchangeable hands including:
– Right/Left fists
– Right/Left C-grip hands
– Right/Left trigger hands

Order the Sideshow 12-Inch Boba Fett now

And finally, for those who want an even bigger Boba, Sideshow and ThinkGeek are giving away a life-sized Boba Fett statue. Be sure to get your entry in now!

December 4, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News, Star Wars | Collecting, Comics, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Hot Toys, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, Sideshow Collectibles, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Statues, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusive Iron an Mk XXVI (Gamma) and Jakku Stormtroopers

Marvel Partners to Bring Statues, Clothes, and Toys for Adults in 2016

Marvel Comics Daredevil_Born Again Today Marvel announced a new initiative to release products aimed at teen and adult collectors and fans.

In 2016 Marvel’s licensing partners will offer apparel, collectibles, action figures, and other items based upon their edgier properties, such as Netflix’s Daredevil and Jessica Jones television series. Items in this line will focus on characters from those series, including The Punisher (who will be featured in Daredevil Season 2, coming in 2016).

Not just television based, Marvel also said the edgier Marvel Publishing archives will be mined to support this release (such as the Daredevil: Born Again story).

With partners such as Kotobukiya, Sideshow, and Diamond Select named, fans can expect high-end statues. Plus Hasbro is specifically mentioned as releasing some of their popular Marvel Legends figures to tie into this initiative. Of course, Funko (the Energizer Bunny of marketing tie-ins) will also be offering several items.

Of concern is the lack of one key licensee — Hot Toys. Since 2008 that Hong Kong based company has produced 12 and 18-inch figures based on Marvel films. The figures are very popular and highly collectible, some selling out the first day they are offered. I know fans were hoping for Hot Toys versions of the movie Deadpool and the television series Daredevil. While Hot Toys may still offer such products in 2016, they are notable by omission in Marvel’s statement.

As of press time Marvel has not replied to our inquiries regarding Hot Toys’ participation in this campaign.

Also shocking is the inclusion of Marvel cult icon Deadpool. In early 2016 Hot Topic will launch a complete Deadpool campaign, which ties in with the Deadpool movie coming out in February. Historically Marvel has had rocky relations with Fox Studios, makers of the Fantastic Four, X-Men and Deadpool films. Merchandising for those properties has been limited, as stated by Hasbro’s Marvel Brand Team Manager Dwight Schultz, XM Studios, and others. Rumors came during San Diego Comic-Con that Marvel was lifting the restriction on Deadpool merchandise, and it has been confirmed in this release.

As an adult Marvel Comics fan and collector, I am extremely excited by this news. In 2014 and 2015 it seemed much of the Marvel content was being aimed at much younger fans, from single age to early teens. From changes to the Marvel comics to the Ant-Man film it seemed Marvel (or perhaps parent company Disney) was removing much of what made me a fan of the characters.

Additionally, as an X-Men enthusiast, it’s encouraging to see Deadpool back on the approved list for Marvel Licensing. While Deadpool merchandise has never been hard to find, as he is one of Marvel’s biggest break-out characters of the past 25 years, this specific push may indicate a more collaborative relationship between Fox and Marvel. (This may perhaps be borne out later in 2016 with Fox’s release of X-Men: Apocalypse).

While more details will certainly emerge during Toy Fair International in February, 2016, this is a promising revelation for grown-up fans of Marvel comics, movies, and television series.

Marvel’s entire press release is below.

MARVEL ENERGIZES ADULT FANS WITH NEW DAREDEVIL, THE PUNISHER, JESSICA JONES, AND DEADPOOL MERCHANDISE

Anti-Heroes and Vigilantes Inspire Dynamic New Product Line and Retail Promotions with Target, Walmart, Hot Topic, and Others

Glendale, Calif. (November 19, 2015) – As fans continue to demand unique items to wear and collect from Marvel’s deep stable of characters, Marvel is rolling out its merchandising and retail plans for popular anti-heroes and vigilantes Daredevil, The Punisher, Jessica Jones and Deadpool. This new development addresses a key Marvel strategy to tap into the Marvel vault and satisfy not only the fans of the major Marvel franchises — Avengers, Spider-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy — but also comic book fans and those watching Marvel’s new Netflix Original Series.

Utilizing new artwork that launched this past summer, the merchandise campaigns focus on images from the vast Marvel Publishing archive to embrace an edgier tone. The lines have begun rolling out in stores with larger launches planned for January 2016 targeting teens and adults. Activity will heat up later in 2016 with the debut of the second season of the critically acclaimed Netflix’s “Marvel’s Daredevil”, which will include the first-ever live-action appearance of the Punisher on television.

The licensing program features a wide array of adult fan-focused product originating off of the wildly popular Marvel Comics publishing line, from apparel to collectibles and action figures. Fans will have the chance to build out full collections for the first time with collectibles from Diamond Select, Funko, Sideshow, Kotobukiya, and NECA coming to retail. Additionally, Hasbro will add Marvel Legends collector figures and Hot Wheels will unveil collectible die-cast vehicles next fall. Mad Engine, C-Life, Hybrid, Freeze, Fifth Sun, Silver Buffalo and Bioworld will each be launching a robust lineup of product including men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, footwear, bags, home goods, and drinkware. The merchandising programs will be rounded out with additional offerings including collector plush, stationery, consumer electronics, and novelties. And this assortment would not be complete without the collected Marvel Comics editions where these popular heroes originated.

At retail, best-in-class partners are working on extensive in-store and online support. Beginning in January, Target will feature a Funko display that will spotlight Daredevil, The Punisher and Deadpool collectible bobbleheads. In February, Hot Topic is launching an in-store and online Deadpool campaign that will include eye-catching signage, a homepage takeover, and social media posts. Other brick and mortar retailers including Walmart, JCPenney, Spencer’s, Party City, and Kohl’s will also provide in-store and online support. Amazon will expand on its toy and apparel offerings for the characters and CafePress is launching a dedicated Jessica Jones shop offering unique merchandise for both men and women.

“Our goal is to open our deep vault of characters and explore all opportunities to drive incremental revenue that extends beyond our core franchises and extends our reach to new consumer segments,” said Paul Gitter, senior vice president, licensing, Marvel at Disney Consumer Products. “The excitement that is brewing across the board from not just fans, but also the licensees and retailers, is overwhelming and we are looking forward to seeing the reaction to this awesome product lineup.”

# # #

About Marvel Entertainment

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy-five years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing.

For more information visit marvel.com.

© 2015 MARVEL

About Disney Consumer Products

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that delivers innovative and engaging product experiences across thousands of categories from toys and apparel to books and fine art. As the world’s largest licensor, DCP inspires the imaginations of people around the world by bringing the magic of Disney into consumers’ homes with products they can enjoy year-round. DCP is comprised of three business units: Licensing, Publishing and Disney Store. The Licensing business is aligned around five strategic brand priorities: Disney Media, Classics & Entertainment, Disney & Pixar Animation Studios, Disney Princess & Disney Fairies, Lucasfilm and Marvel. Disney Publishing Worldwide (DPW) is the world’s largest publisher of children’s books, magazines, and apps, igniting imagination through storytelling in ever-inventive ways. DPW creates and publishes books, magazines, eBooks and apps both vertically in-house and through an extensive worldwide licensing structure. DPW is also committed to the educational development of children around the world through Disney Learning which includes our flagship learning brand, Disney Imagicademy, as well as Disney English and other Disney themed learning products. The Disney Store retail chain operates across North America, Europe and Japan with more than 350 stores worldwide and is known for providing consumers with high-quality, unique products. Disney Store operates ecommerce channels in nine countries, which can be found here. For more information, please visit Disney Consumer Products www.DisneyConsumerProducts.com .

November 19, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, Television | Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Daredevil, Deadpool, Defenders, Diamond Select Toys, Disney Consumer Products, Enertainment, Funko, Hot Toys, Jessica Jones, Kotobukiya, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvel Legends, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, Netflix, News, Press Release, Punisher, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Television, Toys | Comments Off on Marvel Partners to Bring Statues, Clothes, and Toys for Adults in 2016

Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase Two Collector’s Edition Available 12/8 Exclusively on Amazon

This Marvel fan’s dream features Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray, Digital Copy of each Phase 2 film, specially designed disc holders, and exclusive Marvel memorabilia!

Marvel’s Ant-Man releasing on Blu-ray December 8th marks the end of MARVEL CINEMATIC UNIVERSE: PHASE TWO. Fans can now celebrate with this action-packed 13-disc collector’s set. The limited-edition, 13-Disc Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase Two Collection invites you to hold the greatest power in the cosmos in your grasp – an orb containing one of the legendary Infinity Stones! Plus Blu-ray 3D™, Blu-ray™ and Digital Copies of all Phase 2 films, in collectible packaging designed by artist Matt Ferguson. This set overflows with stunning Marvel memorabilia, including a gold-foiled page from the book of Dark Elves, an ancient drawing from the Morag vault, Avengers and S.T.R.I.K.E. uniform patches, a replica of the Tony Stark tattoo from Iron Man 3 and much more!

Order the set now exclusively at Amazon!

CONTENT:

Marvel’s Iron Man 3 (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Marvel’s Thor: The Dark World (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Marvel’s Captain America: The Winter Soldier (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
Marvel’s Ant-Man (Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital Copy)
1:1 Prop Replica of the Orb
PLUS an Exclusive Bonus Content Disc with 166 minutes of bonus material and more!

BONUS FEATURES: From Here To Infinity: Phases 2 & 3 Of The M.C.U.

Journey back through Marvel’s Phase 2 films, from its launch in Iron Man 3 through its fulfillment in Ant-Man, to see how individual characters grow and change, how their relationships with each other evolve over time, and how the universe itself expands with each story. Listen to filmmakers discuss the first set of Phase 3 films– Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War, Marvel’s Doctor Strange, and Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy 2 – and discover there are no limits to the adventure!

Phase 2 Tag Scenes: A Making-Of

Learn the story behind the post-credit sequence in Marvel’s Phase 1 and 2 movies, and explore how the scenes connect and unify the far-flung characters and worlds of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Marvel One-Shot: The Consultant w/Audio Commentary By Clark Gregg
Marvel One-Shot: A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To Thor’s Hammer With Audio Commentary By Clark Gregg
Marvel One-Shot: Item 47 With Audio Commentary By Louis D’Esposito, Max Hernandez, Titus Welliver And Jesse Bradford
Marvel One-Shot: Agent Carter With Audio Commentary By Louis D’Esposito And Hayley Atwell
Marvel One-Shot: All Hail The King With Audio Commentary By Drew Pearce And Ben Kingsley
Iron Man 3: Deleted Scenes
Iron Man 3: Preproduction Creative
Thor: The Dark World: Deleted Scenes
Thor: The Dark World Preproduction Creative
Captain America: The Winter Soldier: Deleted Scene With Audio Commentary By Anthony Russo, Joe Russo, Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
Captain America: The Winter Soldier – Preproduction Creative
Guardians of The Galaxy: Deleted Scenes
Guardians of The Galaxy: Preproduction Creative
Avengers: Age Of Ultron: Deleted Scenes
Avengers: Age Of Ultron: Preproduction Creative: Hulk vs. Hulkbuster
Ant-Man: Deleted Scenes
Ant-Man: Preproduction Creative

October 23, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Blu-ray, Collecting, Enertainment, Film, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Pre-Order, Special Features, Toys | Comments Off on Marvel Cinematic Universe: Phase Two Collector’s Edition Available 12/8 Exclusively on Amazon

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Stealth Armor – Mark III

In 2012 Hot Toys teased fans with a 1/6 scale Stealth Armor Iron Man. At San Diego Comic-Con, nestled in between the Iron Man Mark IV Gantry and the Iron Monger sat a shiny blue Iron Man (pictured right).

Speculation ran wild. After dominating the Marvel movie figures was Hot Toys starting to make comic-based characters?

Years passed and that Stealth Armor never materialized…until today!

Now Hot Toys has released their 2015 Summer Exclusive figure, and it’s Iron Man Mark III – Stealth Armor version!

More, this is not the figure they showed back in 2012, but rather a fully upgraded Stealth Armor Iron Man with Hot Toys’ new diecast parts. The diecast materials give the suit an even more realistic and metallic touch!

Being an exclusive figure, and Iron Man at that, this figure is likely to sell out fast and command top dollar on the secondary market.

The Mark III (Stealth Mode Version) collectible figure is greatly detailed and features specially applied two-toned blue and teal color design inspired by the classic Iron Man comics, LED light-up functions, interchangeable armor parts, and a distinctive hologram patterned figure stand.

This collectible figure will surely stand out among your Iron Man collection!
The 1/6th scale Mark III (Stealth Mode Version) Collectible Figure features:

Authentic and detailed likeness of Iron Man Mark III
Specially applied two-toned blue and teal design inspired by the classic Iron Man comics
Approximately 30 cm tall
Over 30 points of articulations
LED-lighted eyes and circle-shaped arc reactor on chest (white light with red lens, battery operated)
Removable chest and torso armor
One (1) pair of interchangeable forearm rockets
One (1) pair of interchangeable shoulder mounted guns
One (1) pair of interchangeable countermeasure dispensers
One (1) interchangeable torso for three-point landing pose
Three (3) pairs of interchangeable palms including:
One (1) pair with movable fingers and light-up repulsors (white light with red lenses, battery operated)
One (1) pair of fists
One (1) pair of battle palms with light-up repulsors (white light with red lenses, battery operated)
Fully deployed air flaps with built-in metal flaps at back of the armor
Fully deployed air flaps on back of legs
Distinctive hologram patterned figure stand with blue colored Mark III (Stealth Mode Version) nameplate and Iron Man logo

So what are you waiting for? This stealthy figure will slip out of stock before you know it, so get your order placed now at Sideshow Collectibles!

September 11, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News | Avengers, Collecting, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Stealth Armor – Mark III

Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys to Host Wizard World Bash in Chicago

Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys are hosting a party Aug. 22 at Wizard World Chicago — and you’re invited!

A long time ago… August 30, 2005, to be specific… Venganza Media, Inc. launched Star Wars Action News, the world’s first podcast dedicated to Star Wars collecting. In 2010 Venganza then began Marvelicious Toys, focusing on the toys, statues, and games based on the characters from the Marvel comics and movies.

Over the past 10 years both shows have evolved from podcasting pioneers to a major force in the industry and the collecting community, even producing the official podcast for Master Replicas, a Star Wars and Marvel licensee.

On Saturday, Aug. 22, fans are invited to join Star Wars Action News, Marvelicious Toys, and Now Playing Podcast hosts Arnie, Marjorie, Brock, Justin, Jerry, Daryl, Andrew, and more at the Star Wars Action News 10^th anniversary bash during Wizard World Chicago. The party, also celebrating Marvelicious Toys’ 5^th anniversary, will be hosted by the Hyatt Regency O’Hare. The event begins at 7:30 p.m., and will feature door prizes, appetizers, cake, and a cash bar.

Tickets are priced at $15 for children 12 and under, and $25-$75 for adults. Adult tickets include bonus exclusive collectibles ranging from T-shirts to the exclusive Star Wars Action News badge and lanyard, plus a collectible coin previously only available to those who work on the show.

In addition, all adult tickets enter you in the drawing for a huge selection of door prizes. Items have been provided by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Hallmark, Venganza Media, and many more. Attendees can win items ranging from a Deadpool statue to entire waves of Star Wars figures, and more!

Get your tickets now and follow coverage of these milestones at VenganzaMedia.com and its affiliated podcasts!

About Venganza Media Inc.

Based in Springfield, Ill., Venganza Media Inc. is a multimedia production facility and home to the Venganza Media Podcasting Network.

Film fans and collectors worldwide know Venganza as the producer of Books & Nachos, Star Wars Action News, Marvelicious Toys, and the iTunes Top 10 movie review podcast Now Playing.

Since its formation in 2005, Venganza has delivered thousands of hours of entertainment to listeners, while its staff and fleet of contributors have established the company as a premier source for film reviews, celebrity interviews, and collecting news for audiences of all ages.

July 30, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | Big Bad Toy Store, Books & Nachos, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, DorksideToys, Entertainment, Film, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, News, Now Playing, Party, Press Release, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Venganza Media, Wizard World Chicago, Wizard World Conventions | Comments Off on Star Wars Action News and Marvelicious Toys to Host Wizard World Bash in Chicago

SDCC 2015 Exclusives Up For Order NOW at HasbroToyShop.com

Update 11am: The Star Wars First Order Stormtrooper is sold out; sold out in well under 10 minutes.

The Marvel Legends Dr. Strange set is also sold out.

Update 11:30 a.m.: The $9.99 Ant-Man Mini Action Figure is sold out. The Ant-Man 5 pack is still available.

Hasbro has put several of its San Diego Comic-Con toys up for order now at HasbroToyShop.com

Up for order right now are exclusives including:

Star Wars First Order Stormtrooper
Marvel Legends’ Dr. Strange Book of Vishanti 5 figure set with 6-inch scaled figures of:
- Dr. Strange (translucent blue astral projection version)
- Brother Voodoo
- Magik
- Hela
- Dormammu
Hasbro’s Ant-Man figure pack with 5 figures:
- Giant-Man
- Hank Pym in lab coat
- Goliath
- Micro size Scott Lang Ant-Man
- Micro size Hank Pym Ant-Man
Hasbro’s mini Ant-Man figure in “Matchbox” packaging

At San Diego Comic-Con there were few exclusives as sought after as those at Hasbro’s Toy Shop. On preview night people were assaulted and robbed while trying to get the Star Wars First Order Stormtrooper or the Magic: The Gathering set.

But no matter if you were at the con in the midst of the fray, or safe at home watching from afar, this online sale is a chance for you to get some of the exclusive Hasbro toys without paying eBay scalper fees (or being punched in the face).

So hurry to HasbroToyShop.com and good luck in scoring the exclusives you want!

July 28, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | Action, Ant-Man, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Dr. Strange, Enertainment, Film, First Order, Hasbro, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Podcasts, Press Release, sci-fi, SDCC2015, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, Stormtrooper, The Force Awakens, Toys, X-Men | Comments Off on SDCC 2015 Exclusives Up For Order NOW at HasbroToyShop.com

Avengers: Age of Ultron coming to Blu-Ray Oct 2

MARVEL’S AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

GET IT EARLY ON DIGITAL 3D, DIGITAL HD
AND DISNEY MOVIES ANYWHERE September 8, 2015

AVAILABLE ON 3D BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK, BLU-RAY, DVD, DIGITAL SD AND

ON-DEMAND October 2, 2015

Pre-order now at Amazon!

Includes Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes, Making-of Featurettes, Gag Reel and Audio Commentary

Marvel Studios reunites Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in the unprecedented movie event, Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron. Iconic heroes are forced to reassemble and face their most intimidating enemy yet – ULTRON. Pushed to the brink of their physical and emotional limits, the team must recruit both new heroes and familiar allies to face an escalating danger that threatens the entire planet.

RELEASE DATES: September 8, 2015 for Digital 3D and Digital HD

October 2, 2015 for Digital SD, 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack (3D Blu-ray+Single Disc Blu-ray+Digital Copy), Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand

BONUS: Digital HD*, Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA), 3D Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray

Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
Making-of Featurettes
Gag Reel
Audio Commentary

*Digital bonus offerings may vary by retailer

DVD:

Making-of Featurette

FEATURE RUN TIME: Approximately 141 min.

RATINGS: PG-13 in U.S.; PG in CE; G in CF

ASPECT RATIO: Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray & DVD = 1080p High Definition / 2.40:1

AUDIO: Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray 2D = English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, French-Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, Latin Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital

DVD = English/Latin Spanish/French Canadian 5.1 Dolby Digital, English DVS 2.0 Dolby Digital

LANGUAGES: U.S.: English & Spanish

Canada: English, French

SUBTITLES: English, French & Spanish

July 24, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Action, Avengers, Captain America, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Now Playing, Now Playing Podcast, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi | Comments Off on Avengers: Age of Ultron coming to Blu-Ray Oct 2

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys MMS Ant-Man

This suit has power…and you have to learn how to control it!

Tonight Phase II of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe comes to a close with their smallest hero — Ant-Man! It premiers nationwide tonight (and will be reviewed on Now Playing Podcast this Tuesday)!

To celebrate, Hot Toys has released their latest MMS figure, and the first in their Ant-Man movie line: Scott Lang as Ant-Man.

The movie-accurate Ant-Man Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the film featuring a newly developed helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Scott Lang in the movie and LED light-up function when helmet is closed, specially tailored Ant-Man suit, an Ant-Man miniature figure, detailed accessories and a specially designed figure stand.

Hot Toys – MMS308 – Ant-Man: 1/6th scale Ant-Man Collectible Figure Features:
– Authentic and detailed likeness of Ant-Man

– Newly developed helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Paul Rudd as Scott Lang in the movie and LED light-up function when helmet is closed (battery operated)

– Approximately 30 cm tall

– Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:

– One (1) pair of relaxed palms

– One (1) pair of fists

– One (1) pair of gesturing palms

– One (1) gesturing right palm

– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) black and red Ant-Man suit with embossed patterns, silver colored trims, and weathering effects

– One (1) silver colored Ant-Man particle belt

– One (1) pair of black boots

Accessories:

– One (1) miniature Ant-Man (Approximately 2.8cm tall)

– Two (2) bombs

– Two (2) disc equipment

– Four (4) chemical tubes

– Specially-designed figure stand with Ant-Man nameplate and the movie logo

As the film says, “Second chances don’t come around that often,” so pre-order this new hero now to expand your Marvel Cinematic Universe collection!

July 16, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Ant-Man, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Entertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Paul Rudd, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Scott Lang, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys MMS Ant-Man

Hasbro’s Star Wars Fans’ Choice Poll — Round 2 Starts Now

Star Wars Action News’ participation in Hasbro’s 2015 Fans’ Choice action figure poll nears completion!

As announced Monday, Hasbro has started a new poll where Star Wars fans and collectors pick which figure is made for the company’s new 6-inch Black Series line of Star Wars figures.

Star Wars Action News was invited to poll their fans on which characters they wanted. Round 1 was a completely open nomination form, and over 70 different figures were nominated. Of all the figures requested, the single figure with the most nominations was Ackmena, the singing cantina owner from the notorious Star Wars Holiday Special. In a close second place was Brea Tonnika — a background character in the cantina from first Star Wars film.

The top 30 nominees have been taken into Round 2 of voting! Here each Star Wars fan chooses the one figure they want most in 6-inch plastic form. This second round of voting ends Monday, June 29th, and then the five characters with the most votes will be submitted to Hasbro.

The first 20 characters were picked from the first round of nominations:

Ackmena

Brea Tonnika

Obi-Wan Kenobi (A New Hope)

Admiral Ackbar

ARC Trooper Commander Colt

Gamorrean Guard

Asajj Ventress (Dark Diciple)

Lumpy

Lando Calrissian (Jabba’s Skiff Guard)

Momaw Nadon

Grand Moff Tarkin (A New Hope)

Darth Maul (Robot Legs)

Han Solo (Bespin Outfit)

General Grievous (4-arms)

Ponda Baba

Mara Jade

Sabine

Ephant Mon

Republic Commando

Blue Snaggletooth

The other 51 characters nominated received only 1 vote each, so the Star Wars Action News team, including podcast hosts Arnie and Marjorie Carvalho, reporters Brock, Johnathan Brenner, Justin Kozisek and Steve “The Ginger Prince” Nixon, video editor Andrew Harrison, and photo editors Jay Fazio and Curtis Stevenson. From the 51 chosen characters the panel selected 10 figures:

Darth Talon

Darth Nihilus

Dexter Jettster

Jaxxon

Watto

Admiral Piett

Lobot

Yak Face

Grand Admiral Thrawn

Amanaman

Which of these 30 characters is your top pick as a new Black Series 6-inch figure? Vote now in the Star Wars Action News forums!

June 25, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Books, Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars, Video Games | Black Series, Black Series 6-Inch, Books, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Television, Toys, TV series | Comments Off on Hasbro’s Star Wars Fans’ Choice Poll — Round 2 Starts Now

Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow EXCLUSIVE Wolverine – Premium Format Figure

Sideshow is the best there is at what they do…and what they do is make incredibly detailed quarter-scale statues!

The next offer from Sideshow is the Premium Format Wolverine! This statue goes back to the character’s first solo series — the Japan saga by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller, a longtime fan favorite story that defined the character for decades and even inspired the movie The Wolverine.

This Sideshow statue shows Logan atop a snow-capped bridge that is riddled by enemy arrow-fire. With the base this short X-Man stands 20-inches tall!

The statue also comes with swappable heads so you can display him masked or unmasked, both with fierce, feral expressions. And if you hurry to get Sideshow’s Exclusive Edition you can swap his right hand as well – show him with adamantium claws drawn or with the exclusive Muramasa Blade accessory!

You can check out detailed 360-degree photos, close-ups and more at Sideshow’s site, so go check it out! (And if your wallet has a mutant healing factor, place your order!)

June 25, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | 1980s, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hugh Jackman, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, Reviews, Sideshow Collectibles, Statues, Wolverine, X-Men | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow EXCLUSIVE Wolverine – Premium Format Figure

Hasbro’s Star Wars Fans’ Choice Poll is Back — And Bigger Than Ever!

Once more, fans get to pick an upcoming character in the Star Wars line of figures.

Hasbro announced today that they are starting a new poll where Star Wars fans and collectors pick which figure is made. This time, however, the poll is not for the long-running 3.75-inch line of figures, but for Hasbro’s newer 6-inch Black Series figure line.

To make it even more exciting, all Star Wars characters are eligible (except those from the unreleased The Force Awakens movie). With that statement Hasbro has given fans perhaps their only chance to get a 6-inch action figure based on the Star Wars comics and novels that were removed from canon and put into the “Legends” category. Of course, all characters from the films, major or minor, would also be given consideration.

Hasbro has confirmed to Star Wars Action News any character is eligible, including the long-desired Tonnika Sisters from A New Hope, Vlix from the 80s Droids series, and even Lumpy and Ackmena (Bea Arthur) from The Star Wars Holiday Special!

Also of note: if the chosen character is from the Star Wars animated series Rebels or The Clone Wars the figure would be done in a realistic style consistent with the Black Series line’s look.

This year’s Fan’s Choice poll is being run by various Star Wars collecting sites, including Venganza Media’s own Star Wars Action News. Before June 30th each participating site will submit to Hasbro their Top 5 list, with the #1 character getting 6 points, the #2 character 5 points, #3 character 4 points, and so on.

From the compiled lists from all the sites the character with the highest number of points will be immortalized in plastic–and Hasbro will reveal which character was chosen during their San Diego Comic-Con panel on July 10th.

Star Wars Action News is handling this with two rounds of voting. First, they have opened a Figure Nomination thread in their forums. In that post fans can free-form enter any characters they want. That phase will be open until June 25th. Then on the 25th a second poll will be opened where each fan can vote on the one figure they want most. That poll will close on June 29th and the top five figures submitted to Hasbro on the 30th.

Begin your voting now! Head to the Star Wars Action News forums and nominate your favorite character for the Black Series 6-inch line!

June 22, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Books, Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars, Video Games | Black Series, Black Series 6-Inch, Books, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, Marvel Comics, Movie, Movies, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Television, Toys, TV series | 2 Comments

Star Wars Black Series IG-88, Boushh, and Cody – $16.09 ea!

Amazon has some amazing deals on the new Star Wars 6-Inch Black Series figures!

Commander Cody, IG-88 and Boushh Leia in stock at Amazon — $16.09 each! Get them before they’re gone!

Cody

Boushh Leia

IG-88

Thanks to our friends at Jedi Temple Archives for the heads up!

June 9, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Star Wars | 6-Inch Figures, Black Series, Boushh, Collecting, Commander Cody, Enertainment, Film, George Lucas, Hasbro, IG-88, Movie, Movies, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Toys | Comments Off on Star Wars Black Series IG-88, Boushh, and Cody – $16.09 ea!

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys 1/6 Scale Vision MMS

Well, I was born yesterday.

One of the biggest highlights of the record-breaking Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron is the introduction of the new characters in the film! Originally planned to be the perfect “evolution” for Ultron, the Avengers was able to retrieve the android Vision and made him a valuable ally for Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to stop Ultron from eradicating mankind!

Today, Hot Toys and Sideshow Collectibles have put up for pre-order the humanoid hero that many fans have been waiting for – the 1/6th scale Vision Collectible Figure!

The movie-accurate Vision Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on his image in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It features a newly developed head sculpt with detailed texture and Mind Stone, specially tailored costume and cape, Thor’s hammer Mjölnir, and a specially designed figure stand.

Your Avengers: Age of Ultron collection wouldn’t be complete without the addition of this powerful android!

Hot Toys – MMS296 – Avengers: Age of Ultron: 1/6th scale Vision Collectible Figure

~ Movie Masterpiece Series ~

The 1/6th scale Vision Collectible Figure specially features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Vision in Avengers: Age of Ultron

– Newly developed head sculpt with movie-accurate facial features, detailed skin texture, and the Mind Stone

– Specially applied metallic red-violet skin tone to reflect Vision’s distinctive appearance

– Approximately 31.5 cm tall

– Body with over 30 points of articulations

– Eight (8) pieces of interchangeable palms including:

– One (1) pair of fists

– One (1) pair of relaxed palms

– One (1) pair of open palms

– One (1) pair of palms for holding Mjölnir

– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) teal colored full body suit with texture and red-violet colored highlights

– One (1) yellow colored cape with patterns and red-violet highlights

– One (1) pair of red-violet and gold colored gauntlets

– One (1) pair of red-violet and gold colored boots

Weapon:

– One (1) Mjölnir

Accessory:

– Specially-designed figure stand with Vision nameplate and the movie logo

Artists:

– Head Sculpted by Kojun

– Head Painted by JC. Hong

– Head Art Directed by JC. Hong

Release date: Q4, 2015 – Q1, 2016

So head to Sideshow Collectibles and get your Vision now!

May 15, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Ultron, Avengers, Captain America, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, MMS, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Scarlet Witch, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys, Ultron, Vision | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys 1/6 Scale Vision MMS

News: New Images of Guardians of the Galaxy Hasbro Legends Leaked!

Marvelicious Toys has just come across new boxed images of the Entertainment Earth exclusive Guardians of the Galaxy Marvel Legends set!

Featuring Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket Raccoon, and Groot (both in giant and potted versions), these comic-accurate likenesses appear to come loaded with accessories, including swappable heads for Gamora, interchangable hands for Drax, and much more as shown in the images below.

These sets are still up for pre-order now at Entertainment Earth.

May 12, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Podcasts | Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Drax, Film, Gamora, Groot, Guardians of the Galaxy, Hasbro, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvel Legends, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Podcasts, Pre-Order, Press Release, Rocket Raccoon, sci-fi, Star-Lord, Toys | Comments Off on News: New Images of Guardians of the Galaxy Hasbro Legends Leaked!

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Ultron Mark I MMS Figure

You’re all puppets, tangled in strings…strings.

The much anticipated Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron will soon hit theaters worldwide, Hot Toys is excited to continue the waves of highly detailed and movie accurate collectible figures from this super blockbuster. In addition to the return of Earth’s mightiest heroes in the sequel, the titular villain Ultron has been a widely discussed character among fans!

Today, Hot Toys and Sideshow have put up for pre-order the Artificial Intelligence that has gone rogue and threaten human existence in the latest movie – the 1/6^th scale Ultron Mark I scale Collectible Figure!

The movie-accurate Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Ultron Mark I in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It features a newly developedasymmetrical body with complicated mechanical details and cable wires throughout different parts, LED light-up eyes, mouth, and chest reactor, a damaged Iron Legion as an accessory, and a specially designed figure stand!

Expand your Avengers: Age of Ultron collection with this menacing villain!

The 1/6th scale Ultron Mark I Collectible Figure features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Ultron Mark I in Avengers: Age of Ultron

– Movie-accurate sculpture with complicated mechanical details and cable wires throughout body

– Newly developed asymmetrical body with over 24 points of articulations

– Approximately 32.5 cm tall

– Metallic red, white, blue, and dark grey colored painting on armor with distressed effects

– LED light-up eyes, mouth and chest reactor (white light, battery operated)

– One (1) right palm with articulated fingers

Accessories:

– One (1) damaged Iron Legion

Head to SideshowCollectibles and order this metal menace now!

April 22, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Ultron, Avengers, Captain America, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hot Toys, Hulk, Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys, Ultron | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Ultron Mark I MMS Figure

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys War Machine from Avengers: Age of Ultron

For Iron Man 3 a number of collectibles were made showing Iron Man’s pal War Machine in his more metallic suit, but in editing only the Iron Patriot was shown. Even Hot Toys released that version of the War Machine armor.

Do you think Don Cheadle looked at the gray War Machine armor made for Iron Man 3 and said, “Next time, baby!”? Well, that time is now!

Now, for Avengers: Age of Ultron the War Machine is back and he’s in his classic colors! But…there are some subtle differences between the suit designed for Iron Man 3 and the one shown on screen in Age of Ultron. So while you may have a Hot Toys figure really close to this one–unless you pre-order this new figure from Hot Toys you don’t have the Age of Ultron armor!

And to add to the mix, this figure is only being offered through a partnership between Hot Toys and Sideshow Collectibles as a Sideshow exclusive figure! (It’s about time we got one stateside after having to hunt for so many overseas variants). If it’s anything like the last exclusive armored Avenger offered by Sideshow, the Stealth Armor Iron Man, it is bound to sell out fast too!

Plus this is part of Hot Toys’ MMS Diecast Series which the collectible figures are made of diecast material, and realistically designed to look even more like the armor as it appears in the film. You heard our glowing review of Iron Patriot on Marvelicious Toys, now it’s time for War Machine to get that same love.

The movie-accurate War Machine Mark II Collectible Figure is crafted with great details and based on the image of Don Cheadle as James Rhodes/War Machine Mark II in Avengers: Age of Ultron. It features a highly detailed head sculpt, metallic black and dark silver colored armor with decals, LED light-up functions, rotatable machine gun, and a specially designed Avengers: Age of Ultron figure stand.

Gear yourself up for this super exciting film and expand your Avengers: Age of Ultron collection with this diecast collectible figure as “War Machine rocks”.

Hot Toys – MMS290D10 – Avengers: Age of Ultron 1/6th scale War Machine Mark II Collectible Figure Features:

– Body with Die Cast metal parts

– Authentic and detailed likeness as War Machine Mark II in Avengers: Age of Ultron

– Helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Don Cheadle as James Rhodes

– Interchangeable helmeted head with LED light-up function (white light, battery operated)

– Metallic black and dark silver colored armor with white decals

– Approximately 31 cm tall

– Over 30 points of articulations

– Contains diecast material

– LED-lighted eyes and Arc Reactor on chest (white light, battery operated)
– Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable palms including:
– One (1) pair of palms with movable fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of repulsor palms
– One (1) saluting right palm
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Weapon:
– One (1) rotatable machine gun at the back

Accessory:
– Specially-designed figure stand with War Machine nameplate and the movie logo

Check out our pics and get over to Sideshow and order yours now!

April 14, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Ultron, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Iron Man, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys, War Machine | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys War Machine from Avengers: Age of Ultron

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys 20-Inch Iron Man Mark 43 – From Avengers: Age of Ultron

Tony Stark is working on something big…

After many years of creating the best 1/6th scale, 12-inch, figures based on Marvel Movies, now Hot Toys delivers their first figure in a larger 1/4 scale–Iron Man Mk XLIII. Standing 20-inches tall, this figure has over 40 points of articulation, interchangeable heads with LED light-up function, LEG-lit eyes, chest, and back, plus LED shine-through on the sides of his chest, forearms, and the backs of his legs.

It also has removable armor pieces, interchangeable forearm rocket armor, and 3 pairs of changeable hands.

With the hype over Avengers: Age of Ultron this piece may truly fly–out of stock, so pre-order yours now at Sideshow Collectibles!

April 1, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Age of Ultron, Avengers, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Iron Man, Mark XLIII, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Reviews, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys 20-Inch Iron Man Mark 43 – From Avengers: Age of Ultron

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys EXCLUSIVE Iron Man Mark VII – Stealth Edition

Years ago at San Diego Comic-Con Hot Toys showed the Iron Man — Stealth Armor. Years passed with no word on if this armor was continued or cancelled. Hot Toys delved into their House Party Protocol of armors but still no word on the more comic-based blue and black Stealth armor. Until now. Now it’s a MOVIE PROMO EDITION collectible figure, only be available exclusively in selected markets during upcoming promotion events period in different countries… but you can order it now at Sideshow Collectibles!

The Mark VII (Stealth Mode Version) Collectible Figure is highly detailed featuring multiple layers and various shades of metallic and matte black color with digital camouflage design, translucent black chest armor and articulated flaps on back of legs, Stark Industries decals at various parts of the armor, LED light-up functions, interchangeable armor parts, and a specially designed dynamic figure stand.

This stylish stealth mode version Mark VII collectible figure will be a great addition to your Iron Man collection!

The 1/6th scale Mark VII (Stealth Mode Version) Collectible Figure features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Mark VII in stealth mode
– Specially applied multiple layers and shades of metallic and matte black-colored painting with digital camouflage design on armor
– Translucent black removable chest armor and articulated flaps on back of legs
– Approximately 30 cm tall
– Over 30 points of articulations
– LED-lighted eyes and circle-shaped Arc Reactor on chest (white light, battery operated)
– Stark Industries decals on various parts of the armor
– One (1) pair of interchangeable forearm rockets
– One (1) pair of interchangeable wrist guards for posing with repulsor firing palms
– Three (3) pairs of interchangeable palms including:
– One (1) pair with movable fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated)
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of repulsor firing palms with light-up function (white light, battery operated)
– Two (2) sets of interchangeable shoulder armors (normal & missile styles)
– Articulations on waist armor which allow flexible movement
– Fully deployable air flaps on the back of the armor

Accessory:

– Specially designed dynamic figure stand with Mark VII nameplate and movie logo

The Avengers Movie Promo Series Iron Man sold out in ONE NIGHT, so don’t wait–don’t let the weekend pass without getting your order in today! (And if it’s waitlisted, get on that waitslist–the sooner you sign up the better your chances!)

Good Luck!

March 27, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Avengers, Avengers Age of Ultron, Back in Black, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Exclusive, Film, Hot Toys, Iron Man, Iron Man Stealth Armor, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movie, Movie Promo Edition, Movies, News, Pre-Order, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys EXCLUSIVE Iron Man Mark VII – Stealth Edition

Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow’s Black Cat by J Scott Campbell

This is one Black Cat you want to cross your path!

It’s been quite some time since Sideshow Collectibles has released a new statue from their J Scott Campbell Spider-Man collection. But now, almost a year since Spider-Man himself went for order, comes the 4th statue in the series — Black Cat!

This statue is based on a print Campbell has sold for several years at conventions, featuring Felicia Hardy, the Black Cat, playing with her favorite ball of yarn–Spider-Man. More, this statue comes in an exclusive edition with an extra accessory–a sculpted cat to rub up against Black Cat’s leather boot!

The statue stands 9-inches high with Black Cat in her crouching pose, and weighs about 8 lbs. It is expected to ship the second quarter of 2016.

The Campbell Spider-Man statues have had astoundingly high edition numbers…and all sold through! The Mary Jane comiquette had 6,000 pieces ship–and is sold out! The exclusive edition of Spider-Man sold out as well. The other statues, Gwen Stacey, Spider-Man, and the alternate Spider-Man in Classic Colors have all gone back to pre-order status after shipping! It’s astounding, but these statues have been some of the most popular Marvel items from Sideshow Collectibles in years!

So what are you waiting for? Head to Sideshow Collectibles and order yours now!

March 26, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, News | Black Cat, Collecting, Comiquette, Felicia Hardy, J Scott Campbell, Maquette, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, News, Pre-Order, Sideshow Collectibles, Spider-Man, Statue, Statues, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow’s Black Cat by J Scott Campbell

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye from Avengers: Age of Ultron

Take aim on Hot Toys’ newest 1/6 Scale Avengers MMS figure — Clint Barton, a.k.a. Hawkeye.

The release of Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron is coming closer and closer! Fans are all pumped to see the Earth’s mightiest heroes assembling again to save the world from the menacing artificial intelligence Ultron! Following last week’s pre-order of Black Widow, Hot Toys is thrilled to present the widely-anticipated 1/6th scale Hawkeye Collectible Figure!

The only previous Hawkeye Hot Toys figure was made for the original Avengers film, and while it took a while to sell out that figure now sells for over $400 on eBay! This is a chance for fans of the Hawk to finally get this Jeremy Renner likeness at a reasonable price!

The movie-accurate Hawkeye Collectible Figure is specially crafted based on the image of Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye in Avengers: Age of Ultron, featuring a newly developed head sculpt, new outfit, improved articulations for action poses, freshly designed bow and arrows, and a specially designed figure stand.

Expand your Avengers: Age of Ultron collection with this extraordinary marksman!

Hot Toys – MMS289 – Avengers: Age of Ultron 1/6th scale Hawkeye Collectible Figure Features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye in Avengers: Age of Ultron
– Approximately 30 cm tall
– Body with over 30 points of articulations
– Movie-accurate facial features with detailed wrinkles and skin texture
– Six (6) pieces of interchangeable palms with finger tabs on left palms including:
- – One (1) pair of relaxed palms
- – One (1) right palm for holding bow
- – Three (3) left palms of different styles for holding arrow
- – Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume:

– One (1) dark burgundy long sleeves top
– One (1) black and dark burgundy long jacket with straps and guards
– One (1) pair of navy blue pants with belts on waist and straps on thighs
– One (1) pair of black boots

Weapons:

– One (1) fully-opened purple and black colored bow
– One (1) folded purple and black colored bow
– One (1) speed loader with nine (9) arrows
– Thirteen (13) individual arrows and nine (9) interchangeable arrowheads of different styles

Accessories:

– One (1) quiver
– One (1) pair of arrow speed loaders
– One (1) pair of sunglasses
– Specially-designed figure stand with Hawkeye nameplate and the movie logo

Artists:

– Head Sculpted by So Young, Lee
– Head Painted by JC. Hong
– Head Art Directed by JC. Hong

This figure is due to ship later this year, so place your order now at Sideshow Collectibles!

March 25, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Comic Books, Movies, News | Action, Avengers, Captain America, Collecting, Comic Books, Comics, Enertainment, Film, Hawkeye, Iron Man, Jeremy Renner, Marvel, Marvel Comics, Marvelicious Toys, Movies, News, Pre-Order, Press Release, sci-fi, Sideshow Collectibles, Toys | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye from Avengers: Age of Ultron

Star Wars Episode VII: The Toys Awaken

Star Wars Action News forum member Niklab wrote in with an interesting find–the Target DCPI information for loads of Star Wars: The Force Awakens toys!

He has broken down the toys into categories based on descriptions, and you can find the item stock number, Target price, and more below!

Some observations:

1) The good news is Star Wars figures will continue to be in 3.75-inch scale! After Hasbro experimented with 2.5-inch figures for Guardians of the Galaxy and the current Avengers: Age of Ultron toy lines, Star Wars fans feared Hasbro may follow suit with the Episode VII line. But there are no signs of 2.5-inch toys and, in fact, there are even vehicle assortments in the 3.75-inch scale!

2) The 6-inch toy line will continue, which seemed a given with Hasbro’s push for that new scale of collector-oriented figure. Still, it is nice to have confirmation.

3) Though we will have 3.75-inch figures, odds are collectors spoiled by the super-articulated figures released between 2005 and 2013 will be disappointed. The Black Series 3.75-inch line has a MSRP of $9.99 and many Target stores sell them at $12.99 or above. To see these new 3.75-inch figures priced at $7.99 indicates they will likely have greatly reduced articulation (though perhaps more than 4 points, as these are more expensive than the current “Mission Series” figures).

From role-play toys to Micro Machines and Die Cast vehicles, there will be something for everyone to collect–and likely too much for any one person to afford!

Read on for all the details!

3.75″ FIGURE SYSTEM

3.75″ BASIC FIGURES
087-06-3658 SW E7 3.75 Single Fig 7.99$

3.75″ SYSTEM VEHICLES

087-06-3662 E7 Class 1 Vehicle                                   9.99$
087-06-3663 E7 Class 1 Dlx Vehicle                             24.99$
087-06-3664 Class II Vehicle                                       29.99$

6″ FIGURE SYSTEM
087-06-3670 Black Series 6″ 19.99$
087-06-3696 SW Black series 6in Fig 2. 39.99$

12″ HERO SERIES FIGURE SYSTEM
087-06-3681 SW EP 7 Hero Series fig. 9.99$
087-06-3694 SW E7 Hero Series Fig 6. 49.99$

HERO MASHERS
087-06-3675 SW Hero Mashers. 9.99$
087-06-3676 SW Hero Mashers Dlx. 14.99$

ROLE PLAY
087-06-3644 SW Extendable Lightsaber                      9.99$
087-06-3645 SW E7 Mask asst                                   9.99$
087-06-3646 SW Villain Extendable Lightsaber           12.99$
087-06-3647 SW Nerf Foam Lightsaber                      14.99$
087-06-3648 SW Electronic Lightsaber                       19.99$
087-06-3649 SW Villain Electronic (mask)                  34.99$
087-06-3650 SW Villain Dlx Lightsaber                       29.99$
087-06-3651 SW Alien Electronic Mask                       29.99$
087-06-3652 SW Darth Vader Voice changing Helmet 34.99$
087-06-3653 SW Signature Lightsaber                       49.99$
087-06-3654 SW E7 Ammo Refill                                9.99$
087-06-3655 SW Villain Trooper Whit                         12.99$
087-06-3656 SW Sidekick Alien Blaster                      24.99$
087-06-3657 SW Villain Trooper Whit                         39.99$
087-06-3672 Toy constrc SW 2                                149.99$
087-06-3674 SW EP II Yoda Lightsaber.                     199.99$
087-06-3695 SW choose yr destiny lightsaber.             49.99$
087-06-3697 SW E7 Darth Vader Lightsaber.                44.99$

MICRO MACHINES
087-06-3684 SW vehicle blind bag.                          2.49$
087-06-3685 SW vehicle 3 pack.                                4.99$
087-06-3686 SW MM Dlx vehicle asst.                         9.99$
087-06-3688 SW E7 MM Battle Set.                            19.99$

ASSORTED / UNIDENTIFIED
3659 – 3661 had no information, only prices.
3677-3680 no info
087-06-3668 Black Series Die Cast                               4.99$
087-06-3689 SW Collectable                                      19.99$
087-06-3692 SW E7 RC Lead Hero Droid.                    79.99$
087-06-3693 Furby E7 Sidekick Alien.                          79.99$

March 24, 2015 Posted by Arnie C | Movies, News, Star Wars | 3.75-inch figures, Black Series, Collecting, DPCI, Episode VII, George Lucas, Hasbro, Movie, Movies, News, sci-fi, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News, Target, The Force Awakens | Comments Off on Star Wars Episode VII: The Toys Awaken

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Black Widow from Avengers – Age Of Ultron

Pre-orders are up now for the next Hot Toys 1/6 Scale Avenger figure from Age of Ultron — Black Widow

The movie-accurate collectible is specially crafted based on the image of Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in the film featuring a newly painted head sculpt with short curly brownish-red real fabric hair, newly tailored costume with leather-like trims and blue highlights, detailed new weapons and accessories.

Don’t forget to add the lethal female agent to your Avengers: Age of Ultron collection!

The 1/6th scale Black Widow Collectible Figure features:

– Authentic and detailed likeness of Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow in Avengers: Age of Ultron
– Newly painted head sculpt with movie-accurate facial expression and make-up
– Short curly brownish-red real fabric hair implantation
– Body with over 28 points of articulations
– Approximately 28 cm tall
– Eight (8) pieces of interchangeable gloved palms including:
– One (1) pair of fists
– One (1) pair of relaxed palms
– One (1) pair of palms for holding pistols
– One (1) pair of fists for holding batons
– Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume :
– One-piece black colored jumpsuit with leather-like trims and blue highlights
– One (1) pair of red-colored wrist guards with Widow’s Bite bracelets
– One (1) black belt with Black Widow’s emblem
– One (1) gun holster on thigh
– One (1) pair of black colored platform boots with buckles

Weapons:
– Two (2) blasters
– Two (2) batons with real-like electric effect
– One (1) pistol
– One (1) dagger

Accessories:
– One (1) pair of real-like electric shock effect accessories
– One (1) pair of baton handles
– Specially-designed figure stand with Black Widow nameplate and the movie logo

Place your pre-order now at Sideshow Collectibles–the only authorized Hot Toys reseller in the US!

Tech, TV, Movies, Games, and More

PROGRAM INFORMATION

LEGO

Hasbro Black Series 6-Inch Figures

Hasbro 3.75-inch Figures

Funko POP! Figures

Jakks Pacific Big Figs

Hasbro Galactic Heroes

Hasbro Ships and Vehicles

Role Play Toys and Masks

Micro Machine Sets

Titanium Ships and Helmets

Board Games

Hot Wheels

Hasbro Interactech Figures

Other Toys

Housewares

The One:12 Collective Classic Captain America features:

What’s in the box:

Marvel collectors: get your dose of Marvel toy and statue collecting news on the Marvelicious Toys podcast!

Marvel movie fans: hear reviews of every Marvel movie, from Howard the Duck through Ant-Man on the Now Playing podcast!

MARVEL’S AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON