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

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

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 | Movies, News, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 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 ApesPirates 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 | Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

DC Comics Offers Dedicated Shop for Wonder Woman Fans

 

Wonder Woman beat every box office prediction and broke opening weekend records. Its second weekend is expected to continue the trend as it buries The Mummy tomorrow.

But after you’ve seen the film several times, and listened to Now Playing Podcast’s review, how can you celebrate your love for the hero?  Warner Bros and DC Collectibles have tons of options for you to display your Wonder Woman love.

At their new site, WonderWomanShop.com, they have iPhone cases, posters, T-Shirts, bomber jackets, and more.  (The Protector of Humanity Sublimated Tee is especially cool)

For more serious collectors there are statues from Kotobukiya, DC Collectibles, and even a collection of Funko POP! Figures.

And, of course, you can pre-order the Blu-Ray to be among the first to have it when it ships later this year.

June 8, 2017 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on DC Comics Offers Dedicated Shop for Wonder Woman Fans

Episode 489: Rogue Group – A Rogue One Discussion

The very first Star Wars standalone movie has arrived. Without the Skywalkers and the Jedi, how does Rogue One stack up compared to the “saga” films?

On this show Arnie and Marjorie are joined by several members of the Star Wars Action News Team: Steve, Brock, Daryl, Andrew, and Jerry. Plus we have special guests Eddie from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Chris and Sarah. They go through the new characters in the film, how it changes their view of the Original Trilogy, and which toys the film made them want to buy!

And also on this show Brock gives a spoiler-free, in-depth review of the Rogue One prequel novel Catalyst by James Luceno!

So join these Rogues on their mission to review the new film!

Then head to NowPlayingPodcast.com for Arnie, Stuart, and Jakob’s in-depth review of the movie!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/zikxpd/SWAN489-RogueOneRoundtable.mp3

      

December 20, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 489: Rogue Group – A Rogue One Discussion

Episode 488: The Star Wars Holiday Sale & Gift Guide 2016

Happy Thanksgiving, Star Wars Action News listeners! And welcome to our 12th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!In this issue Marjorie and Arnie run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Black Series figures, video games, Star Wars themed glasses and gifts, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!Then the hosts, aided by the entire Star Wars Action News team, run down the best Star Wars themed gifts for 2016. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!All this and a 2016 Toys For Tots Challenge in this issue of Star Wars Action News!Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/3f3e58/SWAN489.mp3

      

November 23, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 488: The Star Wars Holiday Sale & Gift Guide 2016

Episode 487: Troops in Black

Stores are stocking up for holiday shoppers, and a good portion of their shelf space is devoted to Star Wars: Rogue One toys! While they have been out for a bit over a month some of the first wave of figures are still elusive.

On this episode of Star Wars Action News join Arnie, Marjorie, and Scott from Tulsa as they give in-depth reviews on the Black Series 6-Inch Rogue One figures. Plus a look at Amazon’s exclusive Shadow Trooper Helmet — all in this spooky Halloween episode!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/b5deaj/SWAN487.mp3

      

October 30, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 487: Troops in Black

Episode 486: New York Comic Con 2016!

In just a few years New York Comic Con has become one of the top three most important conventions for collectors. Each year the number of exhibitors grow, now including Sideshow and Hot Toys, Kotobukiya, Sphero, Air Hogs, Hallmark, Beast Kingdom and more! And Hasbro isn’t on the show floor, but they use the event to reveal new toys as well.

For all the Star Wars news out of NYCC join Arnie, Marjorie, and Daryl for this podcast. Watch exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Tantrum Cases, and Kotobukiya (along with their Celebration ’17 exclusives!). Plus a booth tour of Sideshow and Hot Toys, and news from so many other collectible lines!

Plus a review of the new Star Wars novel Ahsoka, it’s all in this feature-length episode of Star Wars Action News! (and available in both full video and audio versions!)

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tjy9wb/SWAN486.mp3

      

October 16, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 486: New York Comic Con 2016!

Episode 485: Rogue Friday Around the World!

Last Friday the Rogue One toys were released! Well, officially any way…they had been showing up on store shelves worldwide for weeks before the official street date. But, like for The Force Awakens, these Rogue One toys were celebrated with a midnight release at Toys R Us and Walmart stores. Plus exclusive figures at Target, Walmart, K-Mart, Toys R Us, and more.

On this episode of Star Wars Action News, Arnie and Marjorie recount their Midnight Madness shopping, and are joined by collectors in California, England, and Australia to see how the experiences were in other areas as well!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/8c2yjk/SWAN485.mp3

      

October 2, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 485: Rogue Friday Around the World!

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

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

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

LEGO

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

Hasbro Black Series 6-Inch Figures

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

Hasbro 3.75-inch Figures

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

Funko POP! Figures

Star Wars Rogue One Jyn Erso Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Captain Cassian Andor Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One K-2SO Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Chirrut Imwe Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Baze Malbus Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One Director Orson Krennic Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Scarif Stormtrooper Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Death Trooper Pop! Vinyl
Star Wars Rogue One Darth Vader Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head
Star Wars Rogue One C2-B5 Pop! Vinyl Bobble Head

Jakks Pacific Big Figs

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

Hasbro Galactic Heroes

Star Wars Galactic Heroes Rivals Jedi vs. Sith Set

Hasbro Ships and Vehicles

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

Role Play Toys and Masks

Star Wars Rogue One Deluxe Class I Vehicles Wave 1
Star Wars Rogue One Masks Wave 1 Case
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 1
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 2
Star Wars Rogue One Imperial Death Trooper Mask
Star Wars Stormtrooper Voice-Changer Helmet Prop Replica
Star Wars Rogue One Captain Cassian Andor Nerf Blaster
Star Wars Rogue One Spin-Action Lightsaber
Star Wars Rogue One Blast Tech Lightsaber
Star Wars Electronic Darth Vader Voice Changer Helmet
Star Wars Rogue One Extendable Lightsabers Wave 3 Revision 3
Star Wars Rogue One Electronic Lightsabers Wave 4 Case

Micro Machine Sets

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

Titanium Ships and Helmets

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

Board Games

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

Hot Wheels

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

Hasbro Interactech Figures

Star Wars Rogue One Electronic Stormtrooper Action Figure

Other Toys

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

Housewares

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

September 29, 2016 Posted by | Books, Comic Books, Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Go Rogue! Order Your Star Wars Rogue One Toys Online Now!

Episode 484: Hasbro Star Wars Figures? There’s an App for that.

Next week Star Wars will again descend upon stores across the world. Sep 30 is this year’s designated date for Rogue One toys, housewares, and more to be released. Some are hitting shelves now, but come Sep 30 everyone will have access to figures of Jyn Erso, the Deathtrooper, and more!

On this episode of Star Wars Action News the team gathers to discuss their anticipation for the toys, the new movie, and so much more. LEGO, Hot Toys, Disney Elite figures, and, of course, Hasbro Toys!

Build your anticipation for this toy release with this episode of Star Wars Action News!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/cddicu/SWAN484.mp3

      

September 18, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 484: Hasbro Star Wars Figures? There’s an App for that.

Episode 483: ICE — Collecting to the Extreme!

Over Labor Day weekend a group of Star Wars collectors from across the globe gathered in the Washington DC area for an International Collector’s Event–or ICE. Items were sold and traded, collections were put on display, and friends swapped stories. All while traveling through Virginia and Maryland visiting a dozen Star Wars collections!

Marjorie and Arnie were on-hand to see these impressive displays and talk to some of the other attendees. So kick back and enjoy this extra-cool episode of Star Wars Action News!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/34q7j3/SWAN483.mp3

      

September 7, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 483: ICE — Collecting to the Extreme!

NOW LIVE – Hasbro’s SDCC 2016 Exclusive Toys

SDCC exclusives 2016Up 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 | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on NOW LIVE – Hasbro’s SDCC 2016 Exclusive Toys

Episode 482: SDCC Exclusives — Thumbs Up!

San Diego Comic-Con has come and gone, but the desire for exclusives lives on! Yesterday Hasbro Toy Shop put up for order their three Star Wars Black Series 6-Inch 2016 exclusives: Jyn Erso, Unmasked Kylo Ren, and A New Hope Obi-Wan Kenobi with talking holographic Leia! They were all gone in under an hour.

Are these figures worth the trouble it took to get them? Or the eBay prices? Join Arnie and Marjorie on this week’s show for in-depth reviews of all three Hasbro SDCC 2016 exclusives!

With a bonus review of Funko’s SDCC exclusive BB-8 with “Thumbs Up” lighter, and a look at the new Star Wars novel Aftermath: Life Debt, all this and much more is in this week’s new podcast!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ufzjie/swan482.mp3

      

August 7, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 482: SDCC Exclusives — Thumbs Up!

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusives – Iron Man Mark VII Sub Zero and Iron Man Mark VI Die Cast

Hot Toys has added 2 more Iron Man figures to their roster today–but they may not stick around for long!

First is the Iron Man Mark VII Sub Zero armor.  Being a regional exclusive, this one will be the first to sell out.  Official image and text below:

 

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The Iron Man Mark VII has been a favorite armor among Iron Man fans as many collectors have sought after the original sixth scale Mark VII and Hot Toys’ originally designed Mark VII (Stealth Mode Version) collectible figures since their debut.

Sideshow and Hot Toys are excited to introduce yet another original take on this iconic armor by presenting the new sixth scale Mark VII (Sub-Zero Version) Collectible Figure!

The Sub-Zero version Mark VII’s design is inspired by the concept of Tony Stark creating a specialized armor for carrying out missions in the frigid zones with its color scheme acting as camouflage to conceal itself in areas filled with heavy snow.

The Mark VII (Sub-Zero Version) Collectible Figure is only available exclusively in selected markets and features multiple layers and various shades of white and light gray colors on armor with white carbon-fiber like designs, Stark Industries decals at various parts of the armor, LED light-up functions, interchangeable armor parts, and a specially designed white colored dynamic figure stand.

This extremely stylish Sub-Zero version Mark VII collectible figure will be an excellent addition to your Iron Man collection!

 

You can pre-order the Sub-Zero Iron Man Mark VII now at Sideshow Collectibles.

 

marvel-avengers-iron-man-mark-vi-sixth-scale-hot-toys-feature-9028151

 

Second is a new version of The Avengers‘ Iron Man Mark VI, now with a die-cast body and new accessories.  And the exclusive edition comes with a separate Iron Man helmet with light-up features.

The official description is:

Many fans have considered the Iron Man Mark VI one of their favorite Iron Man suits that Tony Stark has used in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Featuring an all-new arc reactor core and new triangular shape design, the Mark VI is able to fend off Hammer Drones and withstand the powerful lightning strikes from the mighty Thor! Sideshow and Hot Toys are thrilled to revisit this fan-favorite suit and officially introduce the brand new sixth scale collectible figure of Mark VI as seen in Marvel’s The Avengers for the MMS Diecast Series!

The highly-accurate collectible figure is made of diecast material, and crafted with phenomenal details that astonish fans with its high level of authenticity!

The over 32cm tall diecast figure has an array of features including a newly developed helmeted head sculpt of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, interchangeable LED light-up helmet, movie-accurate proportion and highly detailed armor design with fully enhanced articulations, specially applied metallic painting on armor, interchangeable weapons and battle damaged armor parts, LED light-up functions on eyes, palms, lower chest and forearms, and a specially designed LED light-up Stark Tower-themed figure stand.

Do not miss out on the opportunity to have this new Mark VI in your Iron Man collection!

 

Pre-Order the Die Cast Iron Man Mark VI Now at Sideshow Collectibles

July 27, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Exclusives – Iron Man Mark VII Sub Zero and Iron Man Mark VI Die Cast

Episode 481: Star Wars Collectibles at San Diego Comic-Con 2016

San Diego Comic-Con was last weekend, and Star Wars was everywhere! From announcements on books and comics to toys and collectibles, the Star Wars Action News team was there to bring you the highlights!

On this full video episode, Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Marvelicious Toys’ host Justin to talk about all the exclusives, the Hasbro reveals, and more.

Watch this episode for exclusive interviews with eFX Collectibles, Kotobukiya, Gentle Giant and Hasbro! Plus a tour of the floor and look at items by Beast Kingdom, Funko, and more!

And check out our photo galleries to see hundreds of pictures from the convention!

Also, please check out Star Wars Action News’ crowdfunding campaign on Podbean! We want to make the show better and bring back the full video podcasts, but we need your help to make it happen!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/99gbx8/SWAN481-edited_audio.mp3

      

July 25, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 481: Star Wars Collectibles at San Diego Comic-Con 2016

Episode 480: Celebrating Star Wars in Eurorpe, 2016!

Arnie C: http://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/feed/fi2c7q/SWAN480.mp3

      

July 19, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 480: Celebrating Star Wars in Eurorpe, 2016!

Episode 479: We Collect Eternal…Shiny and Chrome!

Star Wars fans around the world — rejoice! In the next 2 weeks comes Star Wars Celebration Europe and San Diego Comic-Con! The news will be coming quickly about new toys and collectibles, as well as information on Episode VIII, Rogue One, and Rebels! And the Star Wars Action News team is going to be at both conventions covering it all.

Join the hosts this episode for the ultimate SDCC shopping guide. From exclusive Hasbro Black Series figures to Chewbacca watches to car decals–Arnie and Marjorie run down and rate the numerous Star Wars collectibles only available at the show!

And Steve “The Gingerprince” joins in to share his excitement for this weekend’s Celebration Europe 3! With an exclusive Black Series Kylo Ren figure, a bevy of Original Trilogy stars signing autographs, and more, Steve preps you for the event.

With a review of the Kotobukiya Art-FX+ Captain Phasma and a Vintage Viewpoint reviewing Topps’ new Empire Strieks Back trading card book, it’s all in this extended Star Wars Action News podcast!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/tfgum6/SWAN479.mp3

      

July 11, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 479: We Collect Eternal…Shiny and Chrome!

CIVIL WAR: Choose your side – VOD on 9/2 or Blu-Ray on 9/13!

CaptainAmericaCivilWarBlurayCaptainAmericaCivilWarSuperset
Captain America: Civil War comes home! Video on Demand Sep 2, Blu-Ray Sep 13!

The year’s best action film, Captain America: Civil War has a release date set. The question is: can your home theater handle all the heroes on screen?

Featuring Captain America and Iron Man, along with Winter Soldier, Black Widow, Falcon, Vision, Black Panther, Scarlet Witch, Hawkeye, Ant-Man, Spider-Man, War Machine, and more, this is the biggest super-hero movie ever and it’s coming to your home!

A 3-D Blu-Ray deluxe set will be released, alongside a regular Blu-Ray.  Bonus features include a commentary by directors Anthony and Joe Russo, “United We Stand, Divided We Fall” – a two-part making-of documentary, deleted and extended scenes, and more!

Hear Now Playing Podcast’s full review of the movie, then head to Amazon.com now and get your pre-order in!

The full press release about Civil War is below.

BURBANK, Calif., July 1, 2016 — Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” has conquered both audiences and critics, debuting to $179.1 million—the fifth-biggest domestic opening of all time—and earning a 90% critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes.  “Captain America: Civil War” is the highest-grossing film of 2016 domestically, internationally and globally, earning more than $1.14 billion at the worldwide box office. It also continues Marvel Studios’ winning streak as the 13th consecutive film from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) to debut at #1 at the domestic box office.

 

When Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” arrives early on Digital HD, Digital 3D and Disney Movies Anywhere on Sept. 2 and on Blu-ray™ 3D, Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand on Sept. 13, viewers can join the nonstop action and pick their side—Team Cap, commanded by Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), or Team Iron Man, led by Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.).

 

Rogers and Stark are joined by a star-studded lineup of beloved Marvel Super Heroes, including Natasha Romanoff aka Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), Bucky Barnes aka Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), Sam Wilson aka Falcon (Anthony Mackie) Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes aka War Machine (Don Cheadle), Clint Barton aka Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), Vision (Paul Bettany) and Wanda Maximoff aka Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen), along with new recruit Scott Lang aka Ant-Man (Paul Rudd) and joined by two new additions to the MCU: T’Challa aka Black Panther (Chadwick Boseman) and Peter Parker aka Spider-Man (Tom Holland).

 

More than 60-minutes of thrilling, exclusive bonus material includes: an inside look at the evolution of lead characters Steve Rogers and Tony Stark, a behind-the-scenes exclusive on the making of Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War,” never-before-seen deleted scenes and hilarious outtakes. Plus, home audiences can learn more about the latest additions to the MCU and get an exclusive, first look at Marvel’s “Doctor Strange,” starring Benedict Cumberbatch, coming to theaters Nov. 4, 2016.

 

 

Bonus features include*:

DIGITAL HD/3D & BLU-RAY:

  • United We Stand, Divided We Fall – The Making of Captain America: Civil War Part 1 & Part 2 – As the tension mounts, sides are chosen and lines drawn. Learn more about the characters on each side—from Captain America and Iron Man to the latest recruits. In this complete behind-the-scenes look at a landmark in the Marvel saga, we’ll examine their stories through exclusive footage and interviews and discover just what went into selecting the Super Hero teams, filming the epic action sequences and introducing Black Panther and Spider-Man to the MCU.
  • Captain America: The Road to Civil War – Explore the First Avenger’s fascinating evolution from loyal soldier to seasoned, conflicted hero who questions authority.

 

  • Iron Man: The Road to Civil War – From Gulmira to Sokovia, delve into the development and evolution of one of the most iconic characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

 

  • Gag Reel – Break the tension of this high-stakes conflict with some hilarious outtakes featuring the lighter side of your favorite Super Heroes.

 

  • Deleted & Extended Scenes – Check out never-before-seen footage that didn’t make the final cut of “Captain America: Civil War.”
  • Audio Commentary – Directors Anthony and Joe Russo and screenwriters Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely deliver scene-by-scene insight and explain the storytelling challenges they faced creating the third installment of the Captain America franchise.

 

  • Open Your Mind: Marvel’s Doctor Strange – Exclusive Sneak Peek – Go behind and beyond the scenes as Doctor Strange makes his journey to the big screen.

 

*Bonus features may vary by retailer. The DVD does not include any bonus materials.

 

The most explosive clash to ever rock the Marvel Cinematic Universe ignites a firestorm of conflict in the game-changing epic, Captain America: Civil War.  In the wake of collateral damage, government pressure to rein in the Avengers drives a deep wedge between Captain America (Chris Evans) and Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), causing a catastrophic rift that escalates into an all-out feud.  Against a backdrop of divided loyalties, their fellow Avengers must deal with the fallout. Pick a side in this spectacular adventure, packed with mind-blowing action, suspense and exclusive bonus content!

 

Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War” is directed by Emmy® Award-winning directors Anthony and Joe Russo from a screenplay by Christopher Markus & Stephen McFeely. Kevin Feige, p.g.a. is the producer of the film, with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Patricia Whitcher, Nate Moore and Stan Lee serving as executive producers.

 

DISC SPECIFICATIONS (applies to film content only):

Product SKUs:                                   Disney Movies Anywhere, Digital HD/3D/SD, Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray 3D+Blu-ray+Digital HD), Blu-ray, DVD (no bonus) and On-Demand

Feature Run Time:                                            Approximately 147 minutes

Rating:                                                                                                       PG in U.S.; PG in CE; G in CF

Aspect Ratio:                                                                         Blu-ray & Blu-ray 3D = 1080p High Definition Widescreen (2.39:1)

                                                                                                                     DVD = 2.39:1

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 Language Tracks, English 2.0 Descriptive Audio

Languages/Subtitles:                     English SDH, French & Spanish

June 30, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on CIVIL WAR: Choose your side – VOD on 9/2 or Blu-Ray on 9/13!

Episode 478: House of Cards

Highly detailed, highly articulated Star Wars 3.75-inch figures are the mainstay of many fans’ collections. The news that The Force Awakens would only see a handful of these Black Series figures, and that they would be Walmart exclusives, made fans worry if these new toys would be obtainable. The third wave, with versions of Han Solo, General Leia, and Captain Phasma from The Force Awakens, has been elusive and fetched north of $40 per figure on eBay. But now, finally, the dam has broken and these figures are showing up coast to coast–including in the Star Wars Action News studio! On this week’s show hear a review of these latest figures and see if they’re worth more toy runs!

Yet while the Black Series 3.75-inch figures have been elusive, the main line of figures, with five points of articulation, are available at every store. Fans were divided on these detailed, but hard-to-pose figures. Now, enter Kozy–a figure customizer who has created cardbacks that elevate these figures from average to epic! He joins the Star Wars Action News hosts to talk about these cards and his inspiration for making them.

With a look at upcoming exclusives for San Diego Comic-Con International and Celebration Europe, new online sales, and much more, it’s all in this Wampa-sized episode of Star Wars Action News!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/vzvbsi/SWAN478.mp3

      

June 27, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 478: House of Cards

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Scarlet Witch MMS – Civil War Version

 

Hot Toys - Captain America Civil War - Scarlet Witch Collectible Figure PR_13

“I can’t control their fear. Only my own.”
 

Marvel’s Captain America: Civil War has been critically acclaimed and enjoyed by audience around the world since its release! As the Avengers’ actions in Lagos have caused collateral damage where innocent people are killed, the Sokovia Accords proposed by the United Nations has divided the Earth’s mightiest heroes into opposing teams led by Captain America and Iron Man!

Today Hot Toys put up for pre-order the 1/6th scale collectible figure of the gorgeous and powerful member of Team Cap –Scarlet Witch!

The highly-accurate collectible is specially crafted based on the image of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in the film featuring head sculpt with long curly brown real fabric hair and new makeup application, brand-new and specially tailored costume, interchangeable hands with red translucent fingertips and effect accessories to simulate Scarlet Witch using her powers, and an Captain America: Civil War themed figure stand. Furthermore, an approximately 2.5cm tall miniature running Ant-Man is included as a bonus accessory!

Do not miss out on the opportunity to add the stunning new Scarlet Witch to your collection today!

Hot Toys – MMS370 – Captain America: Civil War – 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch Collectible Figure Specification
~ Movie Masterpiece Series  ~


The 1/6th scale Scarlet Witch Collectible Figure features:

  • –      Authentic and detailed likeness of Elizabeth Olsen as Scarlet Witch in Captain America: Civil War
  • –      Head sculpt with movie-accurate facial expression, new makeup application, and long curly light-brown real fabric hair implantation
  • –      Body with over 28 points of articulations
  • –      Approximately 28 cm tall
  • –      Seven (7) pieces of interchangeable gloved hands including:
  • –      One (1) pair of relaxed hands
  • –      One (1) pair of hands with red translucent fingertips for power-using effects accessories
  • –      One (1) gesturing right hand with red translucent fingertips
  • –      Two (2) gesturing left hands with red translucent fingertips
  • –      Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Costume :

  • –      One (1) red colored top
  • –      One (1) red colored leather-like coat
  • –      One (1) pair of black leather-like pants
  • –      One (1) pair of black boots

 

  • Accessories:
  • –      One (1) necklace
  • –      Two (2) types of power effects accessories
  • –      Captain America: Civil War themed Team Captain America figure stand with character’s nameplate and the movie logo

 

Bonus Accessory:

  • –      One (1) miniature Ant-Man in running position (Approximately 2.5cm tall)

Are you bewitched yet? Then head over and order now!

May 31, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Scarlet Witch MMS – Civil War Version

Episode 477: To the Maz

She’s the most intriguing new alien introduced in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. She somehow has the lightsaber Luke lost on Bespin. She knows of the Force. She has a crush on the galaxy’s favorite Wookiee. She’s Maz Kanata — and if you want her in action figure form you have to buy the Takodana Encounter figure 4-pack. On this episode of Star Wars Action News, hear a review of that set to see if it’s worth hunting for!

Also on this show, last week ticket sales began for the eighth Star Wars Celebration in the United States, this time back in Orlando! Listen as Arnie and Marjorie are joined by Jake Stevens from From 4-Lom to Zuckuss as they look ahead to next year’s biggest Star Wars party.

With two new premium format figures from Sideshow, a real-life Star Wars hologram, and more information about this year’s Star Wars Celebration in London, it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/ei63wd/SWAN477.mp3

      

May 30, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 477: To the Maz

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

marvel-captain-america-civil-war-black-panther-statue-iron-studios-feature-902753

 

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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Black Panter CIVIL WAR Statue by Iron Studios

Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive First Order Stormtrooper Premium Format Statue

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Attention troop builders and first order fans, Sideshow Collectibles has just put up for pre-order their Premium Format First Order Stormtrooper statue

This screen accurate collectible features the sleekly designed armor and helmet of the most feared fighting force in the Galaxy and also wields his blaster rifle. Plus there is a Sideshow Exclusive version that comes equipped with an SE-44C Blaster Pistol and thigh holster display option.

So hurry and get your order in now at Sideshow.

May 19, 2016 Posted by | Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive First Order Stormtrooper Premium Format Statue

Episode 476: You Don’t Know the Moistness of the Dark Side

May the 4th has come and gone, but for many the credit card hangover still remains. There were new releases from Disney, Sideshow, Gentle Giant, Hot Toys, plus sales at LEGO and more! Biggest of all, the next Star Wars Celebration convention was confirmed! On this week’s podcast Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Ryan and Amy from Star Wars Collecting Cosmos. The four look back on the highs, lows, and purchases of May the 4th, 2016!

Also on this week’s show, Brock reviews the new Star Wars novel BLOODLINE. Taking place between Episode VI and VII, this book had direct input from Lucasfilm to help shape the universe for Episode VIII. Join Brock to find out if this is a must read for you.

With a review of the S.H. Figuarts Captain Phasma, a Darth Vader Humidifier, and a run-down of the perks of being a Jedi Knight or Master, it’s all in this week’s new podcast!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/7bjrp8/SWAN476.mp3

      

May 16, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 476: You Don’t Know the Moistness of the Dark Side

Episode 475: May the 4th Comes Earlier Every Year

New Black Series figures are hitting shelves — but are they the last new 6-inch Star Wars toys we’ll see until fall? On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie are joined by Marvelicious Toys podcast host Justin as they discuss the immediate future of the line. They also review the two new waves showing up in stores now, with new figures including Jango Fett, FN-2187, The Force Awakens style Han Solo, and A New Hope version of Tattooine Luke Skywalker!

Also on this week’s show, the hosts went to Indiana Comic-Con with special guests Ray Park and Ian McDiarmid. Join them, and their guest Daryl, as they discuss the convention–and the collectibles found there!

With a run-down of all the May the 4th day Star Wars specials known so far and more, it’s all in this oversized episode of Star Wars Action News!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/5jiq3n/SWAN475.mp3

      

May 2, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 475: May the 4th Comes Earlier Every Year

Episode 474: We’re Down To buy Figuarts

Star Wars action figure collectors have a wealth of options. Whereas once we had only Kenner/Hasbro action figures, these days there are options in every scale and price point. One of those new figure lines is Bandai’s S.H. Figuarts 6-inch line. The price is double that of a Hasbro 6-inch figure, but is it worth it? On this episode of Star Wars Action News Marjorie and Arnie give an in-depth review of the S.H. Figuarts First Order Stormtrooper, and tell you if it’s worth the price they paid!

And also on this week’s show, the hosts review Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ First Order Stormtrooper statue 2-pack. Listen in to find out why this may be a statue collection you want to troop build!

With a complete run down of all US Blu-ray releases of The Force Awakens, news of an upcoming prototype Elite Series figure, and the latest rumors for 2016’s Force Friday event, it’s all on this Star Wars Action News!

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

Arnie C: https://swactionnews.podbean.com/mf/play/x5qgzc/SWAN474.mp3

      

April 18, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Episode 474: We’re Down To buy Figuarts

Marvel Madness — And the Winner Is……

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket - Finals

What a March Marvel Madness it has been! We started with 32 heroes plucked from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including films, TV shows, and Netflix. 29 single-elimination matches took place with you deciding the results in each case! Sure, you could have voted Howard the Duck beats Hulk, but the voters seemed to keep to the reality defined by the Marvel media.

There were close matches, like when Luke Cage beat Winter Soldier by 1 vote. And there were landslides, like when Hulk smashed Deathlok. But throughout there were fun match-ups that pitted friend vs friend. The full bracket with results is above.

And the end result came down to the two strongest heroes — Hulk vs Thor for the championship! And the contest wasn’t even close.  With 68% of the vote, the winner is……..

Hulk Wins

 

Hulk smashed his way through Deathlok, Black Panther, Iron Man, Punisher, and Thor to become the 2016 Marvel March Madness Champion! This green golliath truly was unstoppable in this mash-up of heroes! (Perhaps this is why Banner was sent away on a Quinjet in Age of Ultron as Civil War would simply be decided by Hulk).

Thanks from all of us at Now Playing Podcast and Marvelicious Toys to everyone who voted in any and all of these matches.  It was fun for us to see how the results went, and maybe next year we can do it again with new heroes like Dr. Strange, or perhaps with the villains — Iron Monger vs Abomination is a match I’d pay to see!

Finally, a special shout-out to Stephen Finley who wrote out narratives for each of the matches — and more often than not the vote followed his story! He posted several of them in our forums, and they’re a very fun read!

Finally, don’t forget to check NowPlayingPodcast.com in just a few weeks for our review of Captain America: Civil War, and join us biweekly at MarveliciousToys.com for the latest Marvel toy collecting news and reviews!

Thanks again for taking part, and EXCELSIOR!

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 6, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness — And the Winner Is……

Marvel Madness Finals – Hulk vs Thor

 

MATCH-UP Finals - Thor vs Hulk

It’s a fight staged again and again.  It was in the first Avengers movie, and in countless comics. Now the two strongest Avengers are the finalists in March Marvel Madness. It’s Hulk vs Thor for the championship!

Both proved worthy competitors as they defeated every fight they had.  You can see the full result bracket of March Marvel Madness below:

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket - Finals

 

Who will win it all?  You decide so vote now!

 

 

[poll id=”35″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 5, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

In Memory of Erik Bauersfeld

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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.

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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.

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Erik Bauersfeld at London Film & Comic Con, 2015

April 5, 2016 Posted by | Conventions, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on In Memory of Erik Bauersfeld

Marvel Madness Final 4 – Captain America vs Thor

Final4R2-ThorvsCap

 

HVhSwThor, God of Thunder, has hammered through victory after victory, earning his spot in the Marvel Madness Final Four! He splintered Groot in the first round. His hammer bested Gamora’s blade in the Sweet Sixteen. He even proved more worthy than Vision, defeating the android in the Elite Eight.  Can Thor fly fast enough to take it all?

He’s facing daring competition in this round–Captain America! Daredevil proved no match against the Star Spangled Avenger, and Jessica Jones fared little better. Even when up against Spider-Man in the Elite Eight, The First Avenger won.

Who makes it into the finals, and who goes home battered and bruised?  You decide so vote now!

 

 

[poll id=”34″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 4, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Episode 473: Blu Rey

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Spider-Man vs Captain America

R3M4 - Captain America vs Spider-Man

 

Spider-Man was tougher than Power Man and became one of the Marvel Madness Elite 8.  Meanwhile, Cage’s wife fared even worse when up against Captain America.

Now it’s Winghead vs. Web-head to advance to the Final Four.  We know Spidey is #TeamIronMan and, well, Cap is #TeamCap. But who wins when they go head to head?

Vote now to choose!

 

[poll id=”32″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 2, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Spider-Man vs Captain America

Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Punisher vs Black Widow

R3M3 - Black Widow vs Punisher

 

The Punisher easily outgunned Hawkeye to advance to the Elite 8. And Black Widow defeated every other S.H.I.E.L.D. agent to enter this round.  But now can Natasha’s fighting skills and widow’s sting compete against The Punisher’s military training and endless supply of guns?  Vote now to choose!

 

[poll id=”31″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 2, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Punisher vs Black Widow

Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Vision vs Thor

R3M2 - Vision vs Thor

 

Hulk was the first hero in March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8, having little more trouble beating Black Panther than he did Deathlok. Meanwhile, in a battle of the armored Avengers, Iron Man came out on top.

Now Hulk and Iron Man face off in the first match of the Elite 8. Who makes it to the Final 4? Vote now to choose!

 

[poll id=”30″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 1, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Hulk vs Iron Man!

R3M1 - Iron Man vs Hulk

 

Hulk was the first hero in March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8, having little more trouble beating Black Panther than he did Deathlok. Meanwhile, in a battle of the armored Avengers, Iron Man came out on top.

Now Hulk and Iron Man face off in the first match of the Elite 8. Who makes it to the Final 4? Vote now to choose!

 

[poll id=”28″]

 

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

April 1, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Elite 8 – Hulk vs Iron Man!

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 8 – Jessica Jones vs Captain America

R2M8 - Captain America vs Jessica Jones

 

Jessica Jones scored a narrow victory over Quicksilver, advancing to March Marvel Madness’ Sweet 16. Meanwhile Captain America obliterated his competitor Daredevil.  Can Jessica Jones succeed where her Netflix brother failed? You pick in the final match of the Sweet 16 fights! Then come back tomorrow for the Elite 8!

 

[poll id=”27″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 26, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 8 – Jessica Jones vs Captain America

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 7 – Agent Coulson vs Black Widow

R2M7 - Coulson vs Black Widow

There seems to be a lot of in-fighting at SHIELD these days. Is Hydra involved? Either way, Agent Coulson easily defeated Agent 13, and Black Widow used extreme prejudice to take out SHIELD founder Peggy Carter.

Now Coulson and Black Widow go head to head. Only one Agent of SHIELD is going to advance to March Marvel Madness’ Elite 8. Who will it be? You decide!

 

[poll id=”25″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 26, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 7 – Agent Coulson vs Black Widow

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 6 – Vision vs Rocket Raccoon

R2M6 - Vision vs Rocket Raccoon

 

It turns out 12% of a plan wasn’t enough for Star-Lord to face Rocket, so the short, furry Guardian entered our Sweet 16.  Vision had a much easier time overcoming his opponent Howard the Duck.

Now Vision and Rocket must do battle in what must be the strangest March Marvel Madness match yet! Will Rocket’s weaponry overcome Vision’s density? Vote now!

[poll id=”24″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 25, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 6 – Vision vs Rocket Raccoon

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 5 – Iron Man vs War Machine

R2M5 - War Machine vs Iron Man

 

Both of the Armored Avengers won their Round 1 matches. Iron Man scored an easy victory over Nick Fury, and War Machine clipped Falcon’s wings. But now it’s time for these two friends to face off in March Marvel Madness!


War Machine has a big gun, but is he the big gun? Vote Now!

[poll id=”23″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 25, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 5 – Iron Man vs War Machine

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 4 – Luke Cage vs Spider-Man

R2M4 - Spider-Man vs Luke Cage

 

In his first match Spider-Man had a fight on his hands, narrowly defeating Scarlet Witch to join the March Marvel Madness Sweet 16.  But the vote was even closer when Luke Cage defeated The Winter Soldier by only one vote!

Now Spider-Man and Luke Cage duke it out for a spot in the Elite 8.  In the comics these two hung out quite a bit, but how do their powers compare in combat?  YOU DECIDE! Vote now in the poll below

 

[poll id=”22″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 24, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 3 – Punisher vs Hawkeye

R2M3 - Hawkeye vs Punisher

 

In Round 1 Hawkeye barely overcame Elektra, winning by just one vote! The Punisher, however, obliterated Maria Hill with 83%.  Now these two must face off.

How does Hawkeye’s aim and trick arrows compare to The Punisher’s arsenal and war experience?  Tell us in the poll below!

 

[poll id=”21″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 24, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 2 – Gamora vs Thor

R2M2 - Gamora vs Thor

 

Two Guardians of the Galaxy were eliminated in Round 1 of March Marvel Madness.  Drax the Destroyer put up a fight and got 44% of the vote, but it wasn’t enough to beat Gamora.  Meanwhile, Groot splinted under the might of Thor’s hammer.

Now these two alien beings face off. Can Gamora’s training under Thanos help her best the son of Odin? You decide!

[poll id=”20″]

 

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 23, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Match 1 – Black Panther vs Hulk

R2M1 - Black Panther vs Hulk

 

Hulk easily smashed Deathlok, getting 94% of the votes, to progress to our Sweet 16. Meanwhile, Black Panther narrowly defeated Ant-Man. Now the two face off. Will Hulk SMASH puny Panther, or will T’Challa’s superhuman strength and agility give him the edge? Vote now to decide!

 

 

[poll id=”19″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 23, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

The March Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Are Chosen!

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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

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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on The March Marvel Madness Sweet 16 Are Chosen!

Marvel Madness Match 16 – Captain America vs Daredevil

SpaceStoneR1M16 - Capt America vs Daredevil

 

It’s the final fight in March Marvel Madness’ first round, and two heavy hitters collide! Can Captain America’s shield and strength overcome Daredevil’s heightened senses and reflexes? It’s a Spring ’16 battle of big screen vs small, and you decide the winner!

 

Then come back tomorrow as we start our Sweet 16 matches!

[poll id=”17″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 22, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Match 16 – Captain America vs Daredevil

Marvel Madness Match 15 – Agent 13 vs Agent Coulson

SpaceStoneR1M15 - Agent 13 vs Coulson

 

Despite both being Agents under the command of Nick Fury, we’ve never seen Agent Sharon Carter and Agent Phil Coulson together. But one has gone on to be the Director of newly reformed S.H.I.E.L.D. and the other is joining #TeamCap for a Civil War.  But if they went head to head, would experience overcome agility? You decide!

[poll id=”16″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 22, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Match 15 – Agent 13 vs Agent Coulson

Marvel Madness Match 14 – Rocket Raccoon vs Star-Lord!

SpaceStoneR1M14 - Rocket Raccoon vs Star-Lord

 

Two galactic Guardians go head to head in a winner takes-all deathmatch! YOU decide if Star-Lord’s 12% of a plan can overcome Rocket’s weaponry!

[poll id=”15″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 21, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Match 14 – Rocket Raccoon vs Star-Lord!

Marvel Madness Match 13 – Nick Fury vs Iron Man!

SpaceStoneR1M13 - Nick Fury vs Iron Man

 

Nick Fury has years of training and combat experience.  Iron Man has attitude and a really cool suit.  Can the Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. overcome the Iron Avenger? You decide!

[poll id=”14″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 21, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Match 13 – Nick Fury vs Iron Man!

Episode 472: Having a Blaster at C2E2 2016

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

Marvel Madness Match 12 – Jessica Jones vs Quicksilver!

SpaceStoneR1M12 - Jessica Jones vs Quicksilver

 

Jessica Jones and Quicksilver both started as normal people, but experiments turned them into superheroes. But can Jones’ strength overcome Quicksilver’s speed? You decide!

[poll id=”13″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 20, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 11 – Agent Carter vs Black Widow

SpaceStoneR1M11 - Black Widow vs Peggy Carter

 

Both women are highly trained operatives, skilled in combat and undercover infiltration. But when these two secret agents battle it out, who comes out on top — Agent Peggy Carter or the Black Widow?

[poll id=”12″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 20, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Marvel Madness Match 11 – Agent Carter vs Black Widow

Marvel Madness Match 10 – Howard the Duck vs Vision!

SpaceStoneR1M10 - Howard the Duck vs Vision

 

This may seem like an unfair fight — after all, what chance does an Infinity Gem powered android stand against an anthropomorphic water fowl? But both had encounters with infinity stones, and Howard is a master of Quack-Fu. And you get to decide which of them progresses to the Marvel Madness Sweet Sixteen!

[poll id=”11″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 19, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Match 9 – Falcon vs War Machine!

SpaceStoneR1M9 - War Machine vs Falcon

 

Never in Marvel Madness history have we had such equal opponents. These super sidekicks both have military histories, and their powered suits got them roles in the Avengers! But Falcon is #TeamCap and War Machine is #TeamStark so one has to fall. Can the “big gun’s” fight overcome Falcon’s flight?

[poll id=”10″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 19, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Match 8 – Scarlet Witch vs Spider-Man!

SpaceStoneR1M8 - Spider-Man vs Scarlet Witch

 

Can webs and wits win over a witch with hex powers? Vote now to see which Avenger comes out on top!

[poll id=”9″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 18, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 7 – Elektra vs Hawkeye!

SpaceStoneR1M7 - Elektra vs Hawkeye

 

Hawkeye lost his parents, joined a carnival, and became a master archer.  Elektra lost her parents and became a ninja assassin. But when they go head to head, who will be victorious?

[poll id=”8″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 18, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 6 – Thor vs Groot!

SpaceStoneR1M6 - Groot vs Thor

 

A god versus a Groot — but who is worthy to advance to the Sweet Sixteen of Marvel Madness?

[poll id=”7″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 17, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Marvel Madness Match 5 – Deathlok vs The Hulk!

SpaceStoneR1M5-Deathlok vs Hulk

 

It’s brawn versus tech in today’s match! Who wins and gets to advance to the Sweet Sixteen — The Hulk or Deathlok?

[poll id=”6″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 17, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye #TeamCap

Hot Toys - Captain America - Civil War - Hawkeye Collectible Figure_PR14

 

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 1/6th 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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys’ Hawkeye #TeamCap

Marvel Madness Match 4 – Winter Soldier vs Luke Cage!

SpaceStoneR1M4-Luke Cage vs Winter Soldier

 

They were once normal humans until science made them something more. But who wins this battle — Luke Cage or The Winter Soldier?

[poll id=”5″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 16, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 3 – Maria Hill vs The Punisher!

SpaceStoneR1M3-Punisher vs Maria Hill

 

Vigilante justice or teamwork and leadership? Who wins when these two draw their guns — The Punisher or Maria Hill?

[poll id=”4″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 16, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 1 – Ant Man vs Black Panther!

MindStoneR1M1-Ant-Man vs Black Panther

 

Our contest begins with our first match in the MIND STONE division!  Which of these animalistic heroes will rule the day — Black Panther or Ant-Man?

 

[poll id=”2″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 15, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Marvel Madness Match 2 – Drax the Destroyer vs Gamora!

SpaceStoneR1M2-Gamora vs Drax

 

Our second challenge for today pits two Guardians against each other! Who will win the first match in the SPACE STONE division — Gamora or Drax?

[poll id=”3″]

See all the details of the Marvel Madness Infinity Gauntlet and download your bracket sheet

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness Bracket

Hear all the Marvel Movies discussed at NowPlayingPodcast.com

Love Marvel Toys? Head to MarveliciousToys.com!

March 15, 2016 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

March Marvel Madness Will Prove Which Hero is Mightiest

Marvel-Madness-logo-largeSince 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.

2016 Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Madness BracketDownload 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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on March Marvel Madness Will Prove Which Hero is Mightiest

Episode 471: Hot Toys — Assemble the Troops!

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

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

 star-wars-episode-8-127089

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

forceawakens-bluray-combo-bestbuy-1024x427

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 50th 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.

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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 | Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 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!A1MoIHuZtpL._SY679_

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 | Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Star Wars: The Force Awakens to be 3-Disc Blu-ray Set

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

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

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

star-wars-boba-fett-sixth-scale-feature-21282

 

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:

  1. 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

  2. Twitter – Follow Star Wars Action News’ Twitter feed, and retweet our contest entry tweet.

  3. 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 | Comic Books, Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Win a Sixth-Scale Boba Fett Figure from Sideshow Collectibles and Star Wars Action News!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

Diamond Select Toys Gives A Preview of Toy Fair Releases

Toy Fair61RsgPK9piL._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

SpiderGwen (1)

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.

minimates

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

Rogue

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 | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Diamond Select Toys Gives A Preview of Toy Fair Releases

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

marvel-gamora-premium-format-300462-02

 

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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles Exclusive Gamora Premium Format Figure

Episode 468: Turning Japanese

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

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

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

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

      

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

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

Hot Toys get SNEAKY With latest Iron Man Figure

Hot Toys - Iron Man 3 - Sneaky (Mark XV) Collectible Figure_PR11

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 | Comic Books, Movies | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Hot Toys get SNEAKY With latest Iron Man Figure

Star Wars Episode VIII Release Date Pushed Back

star-wars-episode-8-127089Lucasfilm 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 | Movies, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Star Wars Episode VIII Release Date Pushed Back

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

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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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Sideshow Collectibles’ Exclusive Captain Marvel Statue

Episode 466: 2015 Star Wars Collectors’ Year in Review

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

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

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

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

      

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

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Deadpool

Hot Toys - Deadpool - Deadpool Collectible Figure_PR17

 

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 1/6thscale 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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Deadpool

Episode 465: The Fans Awaken

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

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

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

But now the film has awoken fans across the globe!

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

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

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

      

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

Episode 464: Rey Bans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast War Machine (from Iron Man 2)

Hot Toys - Iron Man 2 - War Machine Diecast Collectible Figure_PR10

You have a big gun. You are not “the” big gun.

Tony Stark loves upgrades, having gone through 45 suits of armor in 7 years. And Hot Toys seems to be following suit as they continue their upgrades of armored figures from the first two Iron Man movies.  Next up we get a new entry in Hot Toys’ MMS Diecast Series — War Machine.  And it’s up for order now!

The original War Machine in Iron Man 2 was one of the most iconic Iron Man suits of all time! Its heavily weaponized configuration and powerful militaristic design are beloved by many fans worldwide. This new movie-accurate collectible figure representing this suit is made of diecast material, and crafted with amazing details that astonish fans with its high level of authenticity!

The over 32cm tall diecast figure has a wide range of features including a newly developed helmeted head sculpt of James Rhodes featuring likeness of Don Cheadle, interchangeable LED light-up helmet, movie-accurate proportion and detailed armor design, metallic black and silver colored armor, interchangeable battle damaged armor parts on head, shoulder, chest, and back, articulated back-mounted machine gun, interchangeable battle damaged back-mounted machine gun barrel, hidden compartments on shoulders to reveal weapons, LED light-up functions, and a specially designed diorama figure stand based on the final showdown with Whiplash Mark II in Iron Man 2.

Don’t miss the chance to add this iconic and heavily armed War Machine to your Iron Man collection!

Hot Toys – MMS 331D13 – Iron Man 2 1/6th scale War Machine Collectible Figure Specification ~ Movie Masterpiece Series Diecast ~

The 1/6th scale War Machine Collectible Figure specially features:
–       Authentic and detailed likeness as War Machine in Iron Man 2
–       Newly developed helmeted head sculpt with authentic likeness of Don Cheadle as James Rhodes
–       Interchangeable helmeted head with LED light-up function (white light with red lens, battery operated)
–       Movie-accurate proportion and highly detailed armor design
–       Metallic black and silver colored armor
–       Approximately 32.6 cm tall
–       Two styles of interchangeable face masks (normal and battle damaged)
–       Two styles of interchangeable right shoulder armor (normal and battle damaged)
–       Two styles of removable chest armor (normal and battle damaged)
–       Two styles of interchangeable articulated back boosters (normal and battle damaged)
–       Two styles of interchangeable shoulder blade armor (normal and battle damaged)
–       Chest armor can be removed to reveal interior mechanical design
–       Shin armor parts can be detached to reveal interior mechanical design
–       Over 30 points of articulations
–       Contains diecast material
–       LED lighted Arc Reactor on chest (white light, battery operated)
–       Six (6) pieces of interchangeable palms including:
–       One (1) pair of fists
–       One (1) pair of palms with articulated fingers and light-up repulsors (white light, battery operated)
–       One (1) pair of repulsor firing palms (white light, battery operated)
–       Improved articulations on waist armor which allow flexible movement
–       Each piece of head sculpt is specially hand-painted

Weapons:
–       One (1) articulated back-mounted machine gun
–       One (1) interchangeable battle damaged back-mounted machine gun barrel
–       Hidden compartment can reveal detachable “Ex-Wife” rocket on left shoulder
–       Hidden compartment can reveal mini missiles on right shoulder
–       Sub-machine guns mounted on the arms

Accessory:
–       Specially-designed diorama figure base

 

December 9, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast War Machine (from Iron Man 2)

Episode 463: 2015 Holiday Gift & Black Friday Guide

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Star Wars Action News community!

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

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

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

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

      

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

Pre-Order Alert: Ralph McQuarrie Boba Fett Statue

star-wars-ralph-mcquarrie-boba-fett-statue-200372-01

 

Sideshow Collectibles’ 18.5-inch Concept Boba Fett statue is up for pre-order!

Ralph McQuarrie’s conceptual drawings and paintings were instrumental in bringing George Lucas’ epic space saga to the big screen, envisioning the vast worlds of fantastic heroes, villains, vehicles and aliens that would come to be known as Star Wars!

Inspired by Ralph McQuarrie’s pre-production artwork for Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present Boba Fett!

One of the first new characters to be designed for The Empire Strikes Back, Boba Fett originally began as a super trooper, with a striking aesthetic inspired primarily by Darth Vader and the Stormtroopers. As McQuarrie worked closely alongside Star Wars Art Director Joe Johnston, the character evolved into the ruthless Mandalorian bounty hunter we know today. Capturing the spirit of these early explorations, Fett appears in his original all-white armor with two unique helmet designs, leaping into action over a base inspired by the Slave I. Reviewing a broad spectrum of McQuarrie’s imaginative designs for Boba Fett, Sideshow’s artists have translated his iconic artwork in a brilliant homage to a Star Wars that is both familiar, yet never was.

Now you can own an 18-inch statue of this classic concept armor. Check it out now at Sideshow Collectibles!

Previous McQuarrie collectibles, like eFX’s McQuarrie Vader helmet and the Gentle Giant McQuarrie mini-busts have sold out fast and now command a premium. Don’t delay, order your statue now!

 

November 19, 2015 Posted by | Movies, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Ralph McQuarrie Boba Fett Statue

Episode 462: Phasma-tastic

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

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

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

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

Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!

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

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

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

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

      

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

Episode 461: Star Wars the Flamethrower!

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

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

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

Adopt a Pegwarmer Day – Nov 21, 2015!

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

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

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

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

      

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

Episode 460: Han Hot First!

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

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

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

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

      

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      

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

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

marvel-iron-man-mark-III-stealth-mode-version-sixth-scale-hot-toys-902550-07

 

Sideshow Marvel Hot Toys 30

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 | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys Die Cast Iron Man Stealth Armor – Mark III

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 458: Force Friday Rockin Eve!

There’s been an awakening…has your wallet felt it?

Last Friday was declared “Force Friday” by Lucasfilm — the day that hundreds of items would be revealed and released for Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens. Hasbro figures big and small, Jakks Pacific gumbo figures, Micro Machines, LEGO sets, Disney Store exclusives, and so much more was unleashed upon fans in a global, coordinated 12:01 a.m. release.

But the biggest event happened at the Times Square Toys R Us. With a day full of events, a traveling Rancho Obi-Wan exhibit from Steve Sansweet, and hundreds of fans hungry for toys, the flagship Toys R Us was the center of activity — and Marjorie & Arnie were there to cover it!

On this episode of Star Wars Action News, join Marjorie & Arnie as they recount the events of Force Friday, including both before and after interviews with Steve Sansweet.

Then other Star Wars Action News team members report in with midwest toy releases, a report from the Disneyland exclusive ticketed toy release, and even a report from the UK on the release! All the hosts share their experiences, their purchases, and their frustrations in this episode of Star Wars Action News!

And after you watch, come to the Star Wars Action News forums and share your tale of Force Friday shopping!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN458.mp3

      

September 6, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 458: Force Friday Rockin Eve!

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 457: Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary from Wizard World Chicago

A long time ago…on a web site far, far away

Ten years ago, August 30, 2005, two Star Wars collectors released the world’s first podcast dedicated to Star Wars collecting: Star Wars Action News. From the Revenge of the Sith line through The Black Series, and even looking back at Vintage and 90s toys, Marjorie and Arnie have covered it all.

This episode celebrates the milestone, bringing in Star Wars Action News team members Arnie, Marjorie, Brock, Jerry, Daryl, Andrew, and others as they look forward to a new era of Star Wars collecting with The Force Unleashed!

Join them as they talk Wizard World Chicago, leaked images of The Force Awakens toys and figures, and their plans for next week’s Force Friday event!

Arnie C: http://traffic.libsyn.com/venganzamedia/SWAN457.mp3

      

August 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 457: Star Wars Action News 10th Anniversary from Wizard World Chicago

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 456: Finger Falcon

We are less than one month away from Force Friday – the day when an onslaught of new Star Wars toys, books, collectibles, and more will be released! On this week’s Star Wars Action News, Marjorie and Arnie look forward to the upcoming event and want your story from that night!

Also on this week’s show, the hosts review the new Star Wars line of die cast starships from Hot Wheels. With a mix of Original Trilogy, Prequel, Clone Wars, and Rebels ships, this line enters an already crowded area of miniature Star Wars vehicles. Listen to find out if these ships are the ones you should collect!

With a gaming report from 2015’s Gen Con, a review of some quality Star Wars ladies’ accessories, some deep discount Star Wars graphic novels and more, it’s all in this new episode of Star Wars Action News!

Plus, in 2 weeks Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a FREE party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!

Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!

Find out all details and get your tickets now!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN456.MP3

      

August 10, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 456: Finger Falcon

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

 

Capture

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 10th anniversary bash during Wizard World Chicago. The party, also celebrating Marvelicious Toys’ 5th 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 | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 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.firstOrderStormtrooper

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!DrStrange-Featured11222258_1077850085578181_8955005133491949319_o sdccantman1

July 28, 2015 Posted by | Comic Books, Conventions, Movies, News, Star Wars | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on SDCC 2015 Exclusives Up For Order NOW at HasbroToyShop.com

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 455: Star Wars at Conventions From San Diego to London

The 2015 San Diego Comic-Con is gone, but not forgotten. In addition to the exclusive First Order Stormtrooper selling out faster than you can say “Blast it!”, the images of giant TIE Fighters, working R2-D2 robots, and McQuarrie art based statues still dance in our heads.

Last week you had a floor tour of the major booths at the con. Now join Marjorie and Arnie this week as they recap San Diego Comic-Con, including the companies with the best showings and the coolest items coming soon. They are also joined by resident Hot Toys expert Andrew to discuss that TIE Fighter and that even bigger Millennium Falcon, and Berent recounts his experience getting into the Star Wars panel at Hall H!

Also on this week’s show, Steve “The Gingerprince” reports in from a convention on the other side of the pond: London Film and Comic Con. He recounts his celebrity meetings and rare purchases at the con.

All this and Brock’s review of Dark Disciple in this week’s new Star Wars Action News!

Plus, next month Star Wars Action News turns 10! To celebrate, the crew is throwing a party at Wizard World Chicago, Saturday Aug. 22. There will be tons of prizes donated by DorksideToys.com, Big Bad Toy Store, Kotobukiya, Diamond Select Toys, and others!

Plus there will be an exclusive T-Shirt, and an exclusive 10th Anniversary Star Wars Action News coin available only to attendees!

Find out all details and get your tickets now!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN455.MP3

      

July 27, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 455: Star Wars at Conventions From San Diego to London

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

MARVEL’S AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON

 

Marvel'sAvengersAgeOfUltronBluray

 

 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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Avengers: Age of Ultron coming to Blu-Ray Oct 2

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 454: The Force is With SDCC 2015

Star Wars was back in a big way at San Diego Comic-Con 2015. Hasbro and Hot Toys competed for the most impressive TIE Fighter on the floor. eFX filled a booth with upcoming prop replicas–including a fully functional, life-sized R2-D2, and Gentle Giant couldn’t satiate the demand for both the Jumbo and mini-Bust versions of Boba Fett.

Marjorie and Arnie were there on the floor of the con the entire time, posting interviews, panels, and more to the Star Wars Action News YouTube channel. Now you can download their coverage to your iPhone and feel like you were there at the convention!

With an exclusive Hasbro Q&A, a look forward at offerings from Gentle Giant, a Hot Toys booth tour and so much more, it’s on this episode of Star Wars Action News.

For even more coverage, subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see the Hasbro Panel, the Star Wars Collectibles Panel, and the Star Wars Books panels in full!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN454.MP3

      

July 19, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 454: The Force is With SDCC 2015

Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys MMS Ant-Man

Hot Toys - Ant-Man - Ant-Man Collectible Figure_PR12

 

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 | Comic Books, Movies, News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on Pre-Order Alert: Hot Toys MMS Ant-Man

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 453: The First Order

San Diego Comic-Con draws closer, and with that come even more reveals. From Lucasfilm’s Hall H panel on Friday to something even more exciting for collectors — the reveals of the first toys from Star Wars Episode 7: The Force Awakens. Marjorie and Arnie run down this news, and rate your chances of scoring the SDCC exclusive Hasbro figure, on this week’s show!

Then Brock and Jerry join forces for a segment that’s both a book review and a segment for vintage collectors as they look back on the various books that help collectors of the early Star Wars toys.

With Darryl providing a review of the new Star Wars figures from S.H. Figuarts, Steve “The Gingerprince” reporting on the latest UK conventions, and a contest to win a custom melted Vader head, it’s all in this issue of Star Wars Action News!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN453.MP3

      

June 21, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 453: The First Order

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 452: Cuckoo for Koto Stuffs

Kotobukiya had one of the most stunning booth displays at Star Wars Celebration 2015. Their Art-FX+ display of dozens of Stormtroopers standing at the ready, with Royal Guards and Vader at the fore, was truly a spectacular sight to behold. They also continued to grow this line of tenth-scale statues with their celebration exclusive K-3PO and R3-A2 droid pack. Marjorie and Arnie review those new droids, as well as the Royal Guard Art-FX+ two-pack, in this episode of Star Wars Action News!

Also in this episode, a rundown of the recently announced SDCC exclusives, more news on finding the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures, A New Hope for Hot Toys, and more — it’s all in this brand new Star Wars Action News show!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN452.MP3

      

June 7, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 452: Cuckoo for Koto Stuffs

New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 451: Hot Toys Stormtroopers – Shiny and New

Hot Toys’ line of Movie Masterpiece 12-inch scale figures continues to grow. Luke and Leia have been teased, and recently they shipped their first non-exclusive figure: The Stormtrooper, soldindividually and in a two-pack. Andrew has them in hand and is here with an in-depth review.

Also in this week’s show is a discussion of the “cancelled” wave of Droid Factory figures that inexplicably appeared for sale at Go! Calendar stores across the country. Johnathan has them in hand and gives his thoughts, as well as a report of what he’s finding in stores.

With Brock reviewing Paul S Kemp’s new novel Lords of the Sith, Steve the Gingerprince giving a report from Star Wars Fan Fun Days, and Arnie and Marjorie recording live at Wizard World St. Louis, it’s all in this week’s Star Wars Action News podcast!

Arnie C: http://www.swactionnews.com/Podcasts/SWAN451.MP3

      

May 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , | Comments Off on New Podcast – Star Wars Action News Episode 451: Hot Toys Stormtroopers – Shiny and New